Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Their Activity against Pathogenic Microbes and Common House Mosquito, Culex pipiens

The synthesis of nanoparticles by green approaches is gaining unique importance due to its low cost, biocompatibility, high productivity, and purity, and being environmentally friendly. Herein, biomass filtrate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from mangrove rhizosphere sediment was used for the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). The bacterial isolate was identified based on morphological, physiological, and 16S rRNA. The bio-fabricated ZnO-NPs were characterized using color change, UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, TEM, and XRD analyses. In the current study, spherical and crystalline nature ZnO-NPs were successfully formed at a maximum SPR (surface plasmon resonance) of 380 nm. The bioactivities of fabricated ZnO-NPs including antibacterial, anti-candida, and larvicidal efficacy were investigated. Data analysis showed that these bioactivities were concentration-dependent. The green-synthesized ZnO-NPs exhibited high efficacy against pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and unicellular fungi (Candida albicans) with inhibition zones of (12.33 ± 0.9 and 29.3 ± 0.3 mm), (19.3 ± 0.3 and 11.7 ± 0.3 mm), and (22.3 ± 0.3 mm), respectively, at 200 ppm. The MIC value was detected as 50 ppm for E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. albicans, and 200 ppm for S. aureus and P. aeruginosa with zones of inhibition ranging between 11.7 ± 0.3-14.6 ± 0.6 mm. Moreover, the biosynthesized ZnO-NPs showed high mortality for Culex pipiens with percentages of 100 ± 0.0% at 200 ppm after 24 h as compared with zinc acetate (44.3 ± 3.3%) at the same concentration and the same time.

Long-term efficacy and safety of risankizumab for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: interim analysis of the LIMMitless open-label extension trial beyond 3 years of follow-up

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease requiring prolonged treatment. New biologic therapies require long‐term evaluation to assess the durability of their efficacy and safety profiles over time.

Objectives

To evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of risankizumab (RZB) for the treatment of psoriasis.

Methods

LIMMitless is an ongoing, phase III, open‐label extension study evaluating the long‐term efficacy and safety of RZB in adults with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis following multiple phase II/III studies. This analysis assessed efficacy through 172 weeks of continuous RZB treatment by examining the proportion of patients achieving ≥ 90% or 100% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 90 and PASI 100), static Physician’s Global Assessment of clear or almost clear (sPGA 0/1) and Dermatology Life Quality Index of no effect on quality of life (DLQI 0/1). Safety was assessed by recording adverse events (AEs) through the data cutoff date. The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT03047395).

Results

Of 955 patients randomized to RZB 150 mg in the base studies, 897 patients continued into LIMMitless; 799 patients were still receiving treatment in LIMMitless at the time of data cutoff for this analysis. After 172 weeks of continuous RZB treatment, 85·5% of patients achieved PASI 90, 54·4% achieved PASI 100, 85·2% achieved sPGA 0/1, and 78·4% achieved DLQI 0/1 using modified nonresponder imputation. Rates of AEs leading to discontinuation and AEs of safety interest were low with long‐term treatment and comparable with those identified in the base studies.

Conclusions

Overall, long‐term continuous RZB was well tolerated and showed high and durable efficacy over 172 weeks.

What is already known about this topic?

Risankizumab is a humanized immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody that specifically inhibits interleukin‐23 by binding to its p19 subunit.

In multiple phase II/III clinical trials in adults with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis, risankizumab has displayed superior efficacy vs. placebo or other psoriasis treatments for up to 52 weeks.

What does this study add?

LIMMitless is an ongoing phase III open‐label extension study designed to evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of risankizumab treatment for up to 5 years of continuous use.

The results from this interim analysis demonstrate that risankizumab offers sustained efficacy after more than 3 years of continuous use, with no new safety signals identified.

Linked Comment: S. Gerdes and J. Albrecht. Br J Dermatol 2021; 185: 1086–1087.

Green Approach to Overcome the Resistance Pattern of Candida spp. Using Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Fabricated by Penicillium chrysogenum F9

Candida species are the most common causative agents responsible for the majority of morbidity as well as mortality rates due to invasive fungal infections worldwide. In this study, a green approach was developed to control the pathogenic Candida spp. isolated from clinical samples, and prior data collections, ethics approval was obtained. Sixty candida isolates were obtained from the different device-associated infections and identified as Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida glabrata with prevalence rates 41.6, 38.3, 8.3, 6.6, and 5%, respectively. On the other hand, silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were extra-cellular synthesized by biomass filtrate of previously identified Penicillium chrysogenum strain F9. The physico-chemical characterizations of biosynthesized Ag-NPs were assessed by using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DIS), and zeta potential (ζ) analysis. Data revealed successful synthesis of crystallographic spherical Ag-NPs with average size 18 to 60 nm at maximum absorption peak 415 nm. FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups related to reduction, capping, and stabilizing Ag-NPs. The DLS analysis showed that NPs were homogenous and stable with poly-dispersity index (PDI) and ζ value 0.008 and - 21 mV, respectively. Susceptibility pattern analysis revealed that sixty Candida isolates (100%) were susceptible to Ag-NPs as compared to 25 isolates (41.6%), and 30 isolates (50%) were susceptible to fluconazole and amphotericin B, respectively. Interestingly, 30 Candida isolates (50%) were resistant to amphotericin B, which are more than those recorded for fluconazole (17 isolates with percent 28.3%), while 18 candida isolates (30%) were susceptible dose-dependent to fluconazole. The recorded minimum inhibitory concentration _50/90 (MIC_50/90) was 62.5/125, 16/64, and 1/4 for Ag-NPs, fluconazole, and amphotericin B, respectively. However, green synthesized Ag-NPs can be used to overcome the resistance pattern of Candida spp., and recommended as an anti-candida agent.

Patient-reported outcomes with risankizumab versus fumaric acid esters in systemic therapy-naïve patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis: a phase 3 clinical trial

BACKGROUND

In a phase 3 clinical study, patients from Germany with moderate to severe psoriasis who were naïve to systemic treatment and received risankizumab had greater and more rapid disease improvements compared with those who received fumaric acid esters (FAEs).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients treated with risankizumab compared with FAEs.

METHODS

Adult patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either risankizumab 150 mg subcutaneous injections at weeks 0, 4 and 16 or FAEs (Fumaderm^® ) provided according to the prescribing label. PRO secondary endpoints assessed were Psoriasis Symptom Scale (PSS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, version 2 (SF-36v2), Patient Benefit Index (PBI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Patient Global Assessment (PtGA) and European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 5 Level (EQ-5D-5L). PROs were assessed at weeks 0, 16 and 24.

RESULTS

Sixty patients each were randomized to receive risankizumab or FAEs. A significant PSS improvement was observed with risankizumab vs. FAEs at weeks 16 and 24 for total and psoriasis-associated redness, itching and burning scores (P < 0.001). DLQI scores were significantly lower (reflecting better health-related quality of life) with risankizumab vs. FAEs, with least squares (LS) mean differences of -7.4 and -7.6 at weeks 16 and 24, respectively (both P < 0.001). Patients randomized to risankizumab also had larger improvements in SF-36 Physical and Mental Component Summary scores, HADS anxiety and depression scores, PtGA, and EQ-5D-5L index and visual analogue scale scores (all P ≤ 0.002) at weeks 16 and 24 compared with FAEs. PBI was significantly higher, indicating greater benefit, with risankizumab vs. FAEs, with an LS mean difference of 1.1 and 1.3 at weeks 16 and 24, respectively (both P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Risankizumab provides significant benefits over FAEs in improving PROs across several dimensions in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Effects of probiotic and Bidens pilosa on the performance and gut health of chicken during induced Eimeria tenella infection

AIM

In this study, we have examined the individual and combined protective mechanism of probiotic and Bidens pilosa on the performance and gut health of chickens during Eimeria tenella infection over a 29-day experimental trial.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of one hundred and fifty 1-day-old chickens were equally distributed into five treatment groups with three biological replicates: two groups were allocated as control groups (control group untreated unchallenged, CG and control positive untreated challenged, CPG) and three groups were fed diets with probiotic (PG), B. pilosa (BPG) and probiotic + B. pilosa (PG + BPG) and challenged with E. tenella. Birds of all groups were assessed for pre and post-infection body weights, oocysts shedding, caecal lesion scores and mRNA expression levels of apoptosis related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax and caspase-3), antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD 1), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) and tight junction proteins (CLDN 1 and ZO 1). Our results revealed that during infection (day 21-29), E. tenella challenged chickens significantly decreased the body weight compared with uninfected control chickens; however, there was no significant effect on body weight of chickens fed with probiotic, B. pilosa and probiotic + B. pilosa was observed. Eimeria tenella challenged untreated birds increased (P < 0·05) oocysts shedding, destructive ratio of caeca and mortality as compared to treated challenged birds. CPG group up-regulated the mRNA expression levels of anti-apoptosis protein Bcl-2 while down-regulated the pro-apoptosis protein Bax relative to PG, BPG and PG + BPG groups. Moreover chickens fed probiotic, B. pilosa and probiotic + B. pilosa diets enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes, pro-inflammatory cytokines and tight junction proteins with the comparison of control positive untreated challenged chickens.

CONCLUSION

These findings elaborated that feed supplementation of probiotic and B. pilosa (individually or in combination) appeared to be effective in inhibiting the occurrence of disease and decreasing the severity of Eimeria infection in chickens.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study explained the underlying anti-coccidial mechanism in which probiotic and B. pilosa (individually and/or in combination) improve the performance of chicken and protect against gut inflammatory responses caused by E. tenella.

Pharmacokinetics and tissue residue of enrofloxacin in healthy, Eimeria-infected broiler chickens and those pre-treated with amprolium and toltrazuril

The pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin was compared in healthy chickens, Eimeria infected chickens and in Eimeria infected chickens pre-treated with amprolium or toltrazuril following a single IV and oral administration at dose 10 mg/kg. The blood samples were taken after administration at different time intervals (5 min to 24 hours) to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of enrofloxacin. The different concentrations of enrofloxacin were determined by using HPLC assay method. Serum concentrations versus time were analysed by a non-compartmental method. The results explored a significant decrease in serum concentrations of enrofloxacin at different time intervals and a significant change in pharmacokinetic profiles in Eimeria infected chickens compared with those values in healthy chickens whereas, amprolium improves these values. Toltrazuril leads to a significant decrease in enrofloxacin concentrations compared with infected non-treated chickens. Multiple-dose study revealed a longer withdrawal period of enrofloxacin in infected non-treated and infected chickens pre-treated with amprolium compared with the healthy group.

Healthcare utilization and cost burden among women with endometriosis by opioid prescription status in the first year after diagnosis: a retrospective claims database analysis

Aims: Opioids do not represent standard therapy for endometriosis; however, women with endometriosis are frequently prescribed an opioid to manage related abdominal or pelvic pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of opioid use on endometriosis-related economic and healthcare burden in the United States.Materials and methods: We performed a retrospective, propensity-matched cohort analysis of the Truven MarketScan Commercial database from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2016. Eligible women had at least 1 inpatient or 2 outpatient codes for endometriosis and 12 months of continuous enrollment before and after the index date (i.e. first recorded endometriosis diagnosis). The primary analysis examined healthcare costs and utilization for 12 months after the index date in women who filled at least 1 opioid prescription versus those who did not. The secondary analysis examined healthcare costs and utilization by the pattern of opioid use.Results: The primary analysis matched 43,516 women across 2 groups and the secondary analysis matched 13,230 women across 5 groups. In the primary analysis, total 12-month healthcare costs were significantly higher in the opioid group compared to the non-opioid group ($29,236.00 vs. $18,466.00, respectively; p < .001); the same pattern was observed for all healthcare utilization parameters. In the secondary analysis, higher morphine equivalent daily dose and proportion of days covered were associated with the highest healthcare costs and utilization compared to the non-opioid group.Limitations: Retrospective design and inability to confirm whether filled opioid prescriptions were actually taken.Conclusions: Filling an opioid prescription within 1 year after an endometriosis diagnosis was associated with significant excess healthcare burden. Patients prescribed an opioid may experience inadequate symptom management and benefit from the use of disease-specific, non-opioid therapies.

Study of Using Solar Thermal Power for the Margarine Melting Heat Process

The heating process of melting margarine requires a vast amount of thermal energy due to its high melting point and the size of the reservoir it is contained in. Existing methods to heat margarine have a high hourly cost of production and use fossil fuels which have been shown to have a negative impact on the environment. Thus, we perform an analytical feasibility study of using solar thermal power as an alternative energy source for the margarine melting process. In this study, the efficiency and cost effectiveness of a parabolic trough collector (PTC) solar field are compared with that of a steam boiler. Different working fluids (water vapor and Therminol-VP1 heat transfer oil (HTO)) through the solar field are also investigated. The results reveal the total hourly cost ($/h) by the conventional configuration is much greater than the solar applications regardless of the type of working fluid. Moreover, the conventional configuration causes a negative impact to the environment by increasing the amount of CO₂, CO, and NO₂ by 117.4 kg/day, 184 kg/day, and 74.7 kg/day, respectively. Optimized period of melt and tank volume parameters at temperature differences not exceeding 25 °C are found to be 8-10 h and 100 m³, respectively. The solar PTC operated with water and steam as the working fluid is recommended as a vital alternative for the margarine melting heating process.

Hypoglycemic and antioxidative effects of fenugreek and termis seeds powder in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Diabetes mellitus is a heterogeneous disease characterized by altered cellular metabolism. So, many traditional herbs are being used by diabetic patients to control this disease. In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the anti-diabetic and antioxidative effects of water suspension of Fenugreek (F), and Termis (T) seeds powder and their mixture (M) who were studied in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experimental diabetes was induced by injection a single dose of STZ (50 mg/kg, i.p.). Adult male albino rats were divided into five groups; normal control, diabetic control, diabetic-F supplement (1 g/kg b.wt.), diabetic-T supplement (1 g/kg b.wt.) and diabetic-M supplement 1 g/kg b.wt. of each seed powder concurrently for 30 days. Serum glucose, insulin, lipid profile, activities of serum marker enzymes of liver function as well as liver and muscle glycogen content were measured. The oxidative stress was assessed by blood reduced glutathione (GSH) content and enzyme activities of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) in plasma.

RESULTS

The increase in serum glucose, total lipid, triglycerides, total cholesterol, AST, ALT, ALP and decreased insulin, plasma, GSH, GST, CAT, as well as liver and muscle glycogen content were the salient features recorded in diabetic control rats. The F, T and M supplements significantly reverted the levels of the studied metabolites and enzymes activities to near normal control values. Co-administration of F and T seeds powder was considered as an effective agent in modulating the alterations in total lipid, AST, ALT, GSH and muscle glycogen.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that F, T and M seeds powder supplementation may be beneficial for preventing diabetic complications in this animal model.

Protective and curative effects of the 15 KD isolated protein from the Peganum harmala L. seeds against carbon tetrachloride induced oxidative stress in brain, tests and erythrocytes of rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to evaluate the protective and curative effects of the 15 KD protein isolated from the seeds of Peganum harmala L. against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced oxidative stress in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the protective study, animals were pretreated intraperitoneally with 15 KD isolated protein at doses of 4 and 8 mg/kg body weight as well as vitamin C (250 mg/kg body weight p.o) for 7 days and then challenged with CCl4 orally (1 ml/kg body weight) in olive oil (50%) for 2 days. In the curative study, rats were administered CCl4 orally for 2 days, then treated intraperitoneally with 15 KD protein (4 and 8 mg/kg body weight) and orally with vitamin C.

RESULTS

Administration of CCl4 induced induction in malondialdehyde (MDA) and decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels as well as glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity in brain, testes and erythrocytes. The activity of acetylcholinesterase (AchE) in brain was also inhibited by CCl4 administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of rats either pre or post CCl4 intoxication successfully alleviated the oxidative stress in the brain, testes and erythrocytes of the experimental animals. Data also showed that the isolated protein possessed strong antioxidant activity comparable to that of vitamin C.

Synthesis of a new antischistosomally active and toxicologically tolerant C-12 monothione surrogate of the universal antihelmintic praziquantel

A new C-12 monothione mimic (III) of the universal antihelmintic Praziquantel (I) namely, 2-cyclohexylthiocarbonyl( 1,2.3,6,7,11b)-hexahydro-4H-pyrazino[2-1a] isoquinoline-4-one was chemically synthesized and structurally elucidated (Elemental analysis. El-Mass, 13C-NMR and IR spectroscopy). Antischistosomal potency in the order of -76% comparable to that for our newly reported C-12 and C-4 dithion mimic II (-70%) and Praziquantel. Praziquantel (100%, mice infected with S. mansoni cercariae), was realized. Toxicological evaluation (mice liver and kidney functions) and biochemical parameters (cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, total serum proteins and amino acid profile of liver protein homogenate) were also assayed. Comparable to the parent drug, general insignificant toxicological diferences could be attributed for III. Interestingly, III exhibited intermediate biological figures between I and II. An order of II<III<I with respect to the antischistosomal potency and II>III>I, for the other tested biochemical parameters was observed. A consideration of obtained results could indicate that, structurally, an intact glycine amide segment of the pyrazine moiety, as it is the case in both I and III, and not in II (glycine thioamide) seemed now more crucial for exhibiting an optimum antihelmintic potency as well as a more tolerant toxicity characteristics. Additionally, the obtained comparable amino acid profile of mice liver protein homogenate after the treatment by III, could suggest similar biochemical, lethal mechanistic and metabolic routes for II, III and I. The new lipophilic candidatee III seems to merit more profound chemical, biological, and pharmaceutical investigations.

Traumatic auricular hematoma: a case report

Traumatic recurrent auricular hematoma can be a challenging medical problem, with complications resulting in cauliflower ear. Proper management often depends on an understanding of the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of fibroneocartilage--an abnormal fibrous cartilage formation in response to injury. Traditional treatment by incision and drainage, and compression dressing technique may be inadequate in the setting of recurrent or chronic hematoma. Instead, excision of the fibroneocartilage is essential in promoting hematoma resolution and wound healing. Appropriate treatment of auricular hematoma can reduce needless cosmetic deformity and can avoid difficult secondary reconstruction. The authors present a case of recurrent auricular hematoma and review its pathophysiology and current therapy.

Synthetic and bioorganic investigations of 2-cyclohexylthiocarbonyl( 1,2,3,6,7,11B)hexahydro-4H-pyrazino [2-1a] isoquinoline-4-thione, a new dithione mimic of the universal anthelminthic Praziquantel

As a continuation for our previous approaches to establish structure-antischistosomal activity relationship (SAR) among some new rationally synthesized analogues of praziquantel, herein a new C-4 and C-12 dithione mimic of the drug namely, 2-cyclohexylthiocarbonyl (1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 11b) hexahydro-4H-pyrazino[2-la]isoquinoline-4-thione (II) was synthesized and antischistosomally investigated (mice infected with S. masoni cercariae). Further, some significant biochemical and toxicological parameters for both the control and the dithione II treated mice, particularly the total serum and liver proteins, liver enzymes, serum total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, globulins and creatinine, were assayed. The determined induced amino acid profile of liver protein hydrolysate could indicate a close similarity of the working biological mechanism for both I and II. Comparable to praziquantel, the dithione II was found, still promisingly antischistosomally active (approximately 70% of I, collective average activity, based on 500 mg II/kg mouse body weight). Equally, generally tolerant toxicity parameters for liver and kidney functions could be attributed. Due to the still absence of quasi-potent praziquantel candidates since its discovery (1975), the dithione II could be considered as an interesting anthelminthic candidate susceptible for further profound studies and structure modulations. In this context, some perspectives were also suggested.

Changing trends in angioedema

Angioedema can be a life-threatening event presenting to otolaryngologists, emergency medicine physicians, and other physicians. Recent reports suggest an increasing role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) in the causation of angioedema. Sixty-four cases occurring between 1994 and 1998 were identified and examined retrospectively. Fifty-eight percent of patients presenting with angioedema were using ACEIs. Ninety-four percent of patients overall, and 92% of patients with ACEI-associated angioedema, were African-American. Tongue, lip, facial, and supraglottic edema were most common. Treatment included intubation in 13% and intensive care unit monitoring in 20%. Nearly all patients were treated with corticosteroids and antihistamines. There were no deaths. Angioedema associated with ACEI use appears to be much more common than previously reported. African-American patients may be at higher risk for angioedema with ACEI use. Successful management was achieved with observation, expectant airway management, corticosteroids, and discontinuation of ACEIs. Patients without airway obstruction or pharyngeal or laryngeal edema who improved with treatment and observation were successfully treated as outpatients.

A new flavonoid from Limonium axillare

A new flavonol glycoside identified as myricetin 3-O-beta-D-sorboside (1) has been isolated from the leaves of L. axillare. The new compound showed a moderate inhibition of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells.

Synthesis and study of the antischistosomal potency and induced biological parameters of a new 2-palmitoyl analogue of the universal antihelminthic praziquantel

2-Palmitoyl[1,2,3,6,7,11b]hexahydro-4H-pyrazino[2-la]isoquinoline-4-one [III] a highly lipophilic analogue of the universal antihelminthic PRAZIQUANTEL [I] was rationally multi-stepwise synthesized and antischistosomally and biochemically screened. The 2-palmitoyl conjugation was hypothesized to be an antischistosomal adjuvant (Tween 40 mimicry), to the reported crucial pyrazino-isoquinoline moiety. On a constant weight doses bases of I and III (500 mg/kg mouse body weight), the activity of III was found to be approximately 70% of I (mice infected with S. mansoni cercariae) and with satisfactory toxicological and biochemical profile (mice liver and kidney functions). Equivalent molar weight assay (M 1:1.4 for I and III, respectively), which could further plead in favour of the potency of III, was not yet tested. The analogue III, which favourable incorporates the human metabolically and physiologically compatible, palmitic acid segment, seems to be an antischistosomally promising candidate for more integrated studies.

Cell adhesion molecules in normal laryngeal development

Larynges taken from normally developing rats ranging from embryos starting at embryonic day 10 to adults were harvested. Sections of the larynges were prepared with the use of immunohistochemical techniques with primary antibodies directed to the neural cell adhesion molecule; selected sections were exposed to antibodies directed against the embryonic polysialated form of the neural cell adhesion molecule and against L1. Cell adhesion molecules were present throughout embryonic development associated with the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Downregulation of expression was observed after postnatal day 14. We conclude that cell adhesion molecules may play a role in the normal neural development of the larynx in rats.

Autoantibodies in inner ear disease

The etiopathogenesis of many inner ear disorders still remains idiopathic. Immunological mechanisms are attracting attention in relation to a number of these diseases. Some cases are believed to be autoimmune in origin. The present study was conducted to determine whether patients with inner ear disorders produce antibodies that may be pathologic to the inner car or result from its damage. Sera from 100 patients with various inner ear disorders were tested for autoantibodies using the indirect immunofluorescence test. Inner ear tissue preparations from healthy guinea pigs were used as antigen substrates. Adequate tissue and serological controls were applied. Two groups of antibodies were detected; antibodies directed against the inner ear tissues (18%) and antibodies directed against different tissue/cellular elements (41%). A wide variety of inner ear antibodies were found, though no common type manifested itself. Meniere's disease was the most common clinical diagnosis in the antibody-positive group.

A subpopulation of Menière's patients produce antibodies that bind to endolymphatic sac antigens

The endolymphatic sac (ES) has been suggested to serve an important immunological role within the inner ear. Meanwhile, immunological mechanisms have been studied in connection with Meniere's disease. The aim of this study is to look for and recognize antibodies against the ES in the sera of patients with Meniere's disease, using the technique of indirect immunofluorescence. Sera from 50 patients with Meniere's disease, from an animal model of autoimmune inner ear disease, and from healthy controls were tested against ES tissue substrates obtained from guinea pigs. Immunoglobulin deposition in the ES was found in 20 patients (40%) compared with one control (10%). The difference was statistically significant when computing the odds ratios at 95% confidence level. Fluorescein labeling was demonstrated in the ES epithelium in 16% and in the surrounding perisaccular stroma in 24%. Identical immunoreactivity against the ES tissue was depicted in the sera of the experimental animal model. These findings support the possibility of humoral immunological involvement in the Meniere's disease process. Immunological derangement of the ES function could be the first step in a cascade of reactions leading to endolymphatic hydrops and presenting as Meniere's disease.

Decreasing the number of points in the standard curve for determining iron in flour: summary of collaborative study

Seven laboratories participated in a collaborative study conducted to (1) evaluate the effects of reducing the number of points for the standard curve in the AOAC Official Method for iron in flour 944.02A-944.02C(a) from 10 points to 5 points, and (2) compare the levels of iron found in foods by using the 10-point and 5-point standard curves. The 5 points (0.2, 0.6, 1.0, 1.4, and 1.8 micrograms Fe/mL) were selected by eliminating every other standard point from the 10-point curve after correction for the reagent blank. No differences in the performance parameters between method versions were found when blind duplicate analysis was used to estimate the performance parameters for each sample analyzed. Results from 2 laboratories were excluded from statistical calculations because of failure to follow the specific instructions to increase the dilution when sample absorbance readings exceeded the highest standard point reading. The 5-point standard curve has been adopted first action in method 944.02 by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Immune-mediated inner ear disease

Recent clinical studies, experimental research, and various testing techniques in otoimmunology have resulted in presentation of the synonymous terms autoimmune sensorineural hearing loss, autoimmune inner ear disease, immune-mediated sensorineural hearing loss, and immune-mediated inner ear disease or disorder. The development of this terminology and the clinical presentation of this disease as well as whether it is really a distinct clinical entity are discussed. Laboratory tests for immune-mediated inner ear disease are presented along with a discussion of progress being made in the growing field of otoimmunology.

Studies on carbohydrates extracted from native and chemically treated Biomphalaria alexandrina snails

1. Carbohydrates were extracted from total tissue extracts of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails and were analyzed to their monosaccharides using GLC. 2. The snails were chemically treated with thioxanthone derivatives (compounds I, II, III) and the change in the monosaccharide constituents of their carbohydrates was investigated. 3. The isolated monosaccharides from native and chemically pretreated snails were injected into mice and their protective effects were examined after infection of mice with cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni. 4. The results showed that the main monosaccharides in carbohydrates of snails were galactose, glucose, fucose and mannose and that chemical treatment caused a drop in the galactose content. 5. Moreover, monosaccharide fractions from snails treated with compound III were the most effective in inducing protection against Schistosoma infection in mice.

Interlaboratory Study of Decreasing the Number of Standard Points in the Official Iron Standard Curve

An Interlaboratory study was conducted to (1) evaluate the effects of reducing the 10 points for the iron standard curve to 5 points in Official Methods of Analysis (1990) 15th Ed., sees 944.02A-944.02C(a), and (2) compare the levels of Iron found In foods by using the 10-point and 5-point standard curves. The 5 points (0.2, 0.6, 1.0, 1.4, and 1.8 μg Fe/mL) were selected by eliminating every other standard point from the 10-point curve after correction for the reagent blank. No differences in the performance parameters between method versions were found when blind duplicate analysis was used to estimate the performance parameters for each sample analyzed.

Type II collagen-induced inner ear disease: critical evaluation of the guinea pig model

Guinea pigs systematically challenged with type II collagen were examined electrophysiologically, histologically, and immunologically for inner ear lesions. Some functional, morphologic, and immunologic changes could be demonstrated. Evidence of possible immunoglobulin deposition in the basilar membrane, the perivascular region, as well as in other inner ear tissue were present. Immunologic and histopathologic simulations to inner ear diseases in humans and to the inner ear antigen-induced animal model were found. The results are discussed in light of the original model introduced by Yoo et al and the reexamination findings reported by Harris et al. The discrepancies in the results are argued, and the impact of this experimental model on human autoimmune inner ear disease is analysed.

Autoimmune hearing loss

Tissue nonspecific antibodies may give an idea about the etiopathogenesis of the inner ear disease. They are of some prognostic and therapeutic value. They are routinely tested in most inner ear patients. On the other hand, inner ear specific autoantibodies do exist. Their diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic significance are still unclear. Cellular immunity is tested only in selected cases based upon the clinical picture and the results of humoral immunity testing. It needs whole fresh blood as well as facilities not available in all laboratories. Their main role seems to be in providing solid basis for cortisone therapy justification. Our therapeutic concept proved to be promising in some cases. Immune-mediated inner ear disorders do not form a separate clinical entity. We would rather add immune mediation to the different causes postulated for the various inner ear disorders, as a plausible explanation for a certain percentage of the group categorized as idiopathic of unknown etiology.

Experimental autoimmune inner ear disease

A guinea pig animal model of autoimmune inner ear disease is presented. The functional, anatomical, and immunological inner ear changes were tested electrophysiologically, histologically and by the immunofluorescence test. Using a homologous crude inner ear antigen (CIEAg) we were able to induce endolymphatic hydrops, vasculitis, mild cellular infiltration of the endolymphatic sac, and occasional spiral ganglion degeneration. Threshold shift was seen in 20% of the tested ears. Specific fluorescence was revealed around the modiolar vessels and in the basilar membrane. The endolymphatic sac and duct showed occasional fluorescence in the epithelial and/or subepithelial layers. The findings were discussed in light of the other models immunized with various forms of inner ear antigens. Similarities between the detected specific fluorescence and the fluorescence revealed by sera of patients with cochleovestibular disorders were discussed.

Prolonged electrode implantation in experimental studies. Critical evaluation of a technique

Stainless steel electrodes were chronically implanted through the right facial canal of 30 guinea pigs, close to the potential generator (VIII nerve). Compound action potential (CAP) thresholds, N1 latencies and input-output curves were recorded on day of implantation and 2, 4 and 8-12 weeks later. In the same sitting, auditory evoked brain stem response (ABR) thresholds, latencies and inter-peak-latencies were measured on both sides as a control. N1 thresholds and latencies at low and high intensities were stable. N1 amplitudes, however, showed some variation. Rate of infection was low and reimplantation was successful. Preserving the facial nerve as a land mark was found advantageous, particularly on reimplantation, and did not affect the CAP recording. The technique, originally described by Hildesheimer et al., proved to be reproducible. A few technical difficulties are pointed out and the implication of some interesting findings are discussed.

Changes in the brainstem evoked responses following jugular vein ligation

Blockage of both jugular veins is often followed by signs of intracranial hypertension. The use of brainstem evoked responses (BSER) in the detection of brainstem compression following jugular vein ligation in guinea pigs was studied. Thirty pigmented guinea pigs were studied. Unilateral jugular vein ligation was performed in 10 animals and bilaterally in 10. Ten animals were controls. The BSER to clicks at 20 db above hearing thresholds before and 6 hours following ligation of one or both jugular veins were recorded. No change in the hearing threshold was observed following jugular vein(s) ligation. However, prolongation of the I-III and III-IV interpeak intervals were observed following both unilateral and bilateral jugular vein ligation. The results suggest that BSER monitoring may be useful in the early detection of brainstem compression following jugular vein ligation in head and neck surgery.

Optimizing immunofluorescence for the testing of autoantibodies in inner ear disorders

A method is described for the immunofluorescent testing of autoantibodies in the sera of patients with vestibulo-cochlear disorders, using fixed decalcified inner ear tissue preparations from guinea pigs. Fixation in cold ethanol and decalcification in EDTa at 4 degrees C preserved the immunological reactivity of the inner ear tissue in use and allowed excellent delineation of its structural details. Counterstaining of the sections with Evans-blue dye aided in a better identification of the inner ear anatomical structures and in a more precise location of the antibodies present. By mounting the sections in p-phenylenediamine-PBS-glycerin solution, the rapid extinction of the fluorescence seen during photomicroscopy was retarded and the intensity of the immunofluorescence was enhanced. Preservation of the slides for documentation was improved by fixing the intermediate layer of the antigen and the labeled antibody in cold ethanol. The inner ear tissue preparations retained their fluorescent staining up to 6 months. Our method is convenient for screening patients with inner ear disorders for autoantibodies against the different cellular elements and for testing the possible presence of antibodies against the inner ear tissue. So far, we believe that the antibodies detected are not tissue (inner ear) specific.

An improved technique for the study of immunofluorescence using non-decalcified frozen guinea pig cochlea

A technique for producing frozen sections from the non-decalcified guinea pig cochlea is described. The sections can be utilised for various immunofluorescent studies, including the detection of humoral antibodies against different cellular elements in patients with cochleo-vestibular disorders. The technique assures the preservation of the cochlear architecture and the tissue antigenicity, and it avoids damage to the fine cochlear structural details.

A comparative immunofluorescent study of fixed decalcified tissue and frozen non-decalcified tissue from the guinea pig cochlea

The immunofluorescence test (IF) is an important diagnostic laboratory tool for detecting immune-mediated sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The results of applying the IF to ethanol-fixed, paraffin-embedded, decalcified sections of guinea pig cochlea as compared with frozen non-decalcified preparations are presented. Sera from ten patients with SNHL were tested in addition to antibody-positive and negative human serum controls. Despite fixation and prolonged decalcification, deparaffinized cochlear sections showed a strong positive reaction with most of the positive serum controls. Anti-endothelial antibodies were detected in the serum of one patient and anti-nuclear antibodies in another. The fine cochlear structure was clearly delineated. However, the decalcified specimens failed to react with one serum model, which revealed a positive fluorescence when incubated with the frozen non-decalcified cochlear preparations. These latter findings denote possible leaching of the antigenic material from the sections. This study further shows that frozen nondecalcified cochlear tissue is a reliable tissue source for the interpretation of the results obtained with IF.

The use of immunofluorescence in the non-decalcified frozen guinea pig cochlea to detect autoantibodies in inner ear disorders

Autoantibodies in the serum of patients with inner ear disorders have been detected using the immunofluorescence technique. In the present study the results of the use of frozen sections of non-decalcified guinea pig cochlea in the indirect immunofluorescence test are described. Human sera with positive anti-mitochondrial (AMA), anti-nuclear (ANAS) and anti-nucleolar (ANAN) antibodies were utilized, as well as a negative serum control and sera from three patients suffering from chronic progressive sensorineural hearing loss. The positive reactions obtained were clear and specific. Autofluorescence was minimal and non-specific reactions were negligible. The fine structure of the inner ear tissue and the cellular antigenicity present were well preserved.

The spinal fluid of acute hepatitis B patients--an occupational hazard?

Spinal fluid and serum samples from 19 patients, with acute viral hepatitis, type B, already known to have HBs antigenemia, were tested for the detection of HBsAg by two techniques; Hemagglutination Inhibition (H.I.) and Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent assay (ELISA). HBsAg was detected in all serum samples by both techniques while all spinal fluid samples were free of that antigen except one sample that was found to contain HBsAg by the ELISA technique only. This sample was also proved to contain occult blood as shown by the positive benzidine reaction.

Isolation and identification of African horsesickness virus from naturally infected dogs in Upper Egypt

African horsesickness virus was isolated from blood samples of street dogs in Aswan Province in Arab Republic of Egypt. Of six isolated "dog strain" African horsesickness viruses, three viruses designated D2, D6 and D10 have been identified as type 9 African horsesickness virus. Methods of isolation, tissue culture adaptation, serological indentification and typing are described. Horses experimentally infected with dog viruses showed febrile reaction and characteristic clinical and pathological signs of African horsesickness. Reisolation of African horsesickness virus type 9 was achieved from the horses during serial passages.