Mycodegradation of low-density polyethylene by Cladosporium sphaerospermum, isolated from platisphere

Plastic accumulation is a severe threat to the environment due to its resistivity to thermal, mechanical and biological processes. In recent years, microbial degradation of plastic waste disposal is of interest because of its eco-friendly nature. In this study, a total of 33 fungi were isolated from the plastisphere and out of which 28 fungal species showed halo zone of clearance in agarized LDPE media. The fungus showing highest zone of clearance was further used to evaluate its degradation potential. Based on morphological and molecular technique, the fungus was identified as Cladosporium sphaerospermum. The biodegradation of LDPE by C. sphaerospermum was evaluated by various methods. The exposure of LDPE with C. sphaerospermum resulted in weight loss (15.23%) in seven days, higher reduction rate (0.0224/day) and lower half-life (30.93 days). FTIR analysis showed changes in functional group and increased carbonyl index in LDPE treated with C. sphaerospermum. SEMimages evidenced the formation of pits, surface aberrations and grooves on the LDPE film treated with the fungus whereas the untreated control LDPE film showed no change. AFM analysis confirmed the surface changes and roughness in fungus treated LDPE film. This might be due to the extracellular lignolytic enzymes secreted by C. sphaerospermum grown on LDPE. The degradation of polyethylene by Short chain alkanes such as dodecane, hexasiloxane and silane were identified in the extract of fungus incubated with LDPE film through GC-MS analysis which might be due to the degradation of LDPE film by C. sphaerospermum. This was the first report on the LDPE degradation by C. sphaerospermum in very short duration which enables green scavenging of plastic wastes.

Isolated Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma of the Pyramidal Lobe: A Case Report and Review of Literature

The pyramidal lobe (PL) represents an embryological remnant of the thyroglossal duct. A solitary focus of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) of the PL of thyroid gland is a rare entity. We present a case of a 33-year-old woman with PTC of the PL with lymph nodal involvement and further discuss the lines of surgical management for primary PTC arising from the PL of thyroid gland.

PAEDIATRIC SYMPTOMATIC SEIZURES IN INDIA: UNRAVELLING VARIED ETIOLOGIES AND NEUROIMAGING PATTERNS - A MULTICENTRIC STUDY

Pediatric neuroimaging presents a unique set of challenges, primarily stemming from the intricacies of normal myelination processes occurring within the initial two years of life. This complexity is particularly pronounced in the context of pediatric epilepsy, where a substantial proportion of neuroimaging cases appears normal, especially in instances of idiopathic or provoked seizures. Nevertheless, abnormalities in neuroimaging tend to manifest in cases of acute or remote symptomatic seizures. Notably, the etiological landscape of seizures in children diverges significantly from that observed in adults, with neurodevelopmental, neurometabolic, and neuro-infectious factors emerging as predominant contributors. This multicentric study, conducted between November 2021 and November 2023, spanned diverse hospitals across various states in India. Encompassing children from birth to 12 years of age experiencing acute and remote symptomatic seizures, the study meticulously documented clinical and demographic profiles. Exclusion criteria were applied, excluding typical febrile seizures and idiopathic epilepsy syndromes to ensure a focused analysis. The study encompassed a total of 109 cases, revealing a spectrum of neuroimaging findings. Noteworthy among these were cortical malformations, including focal cortical dysplasia (12 cases), tuberous sclerosis (6 cases), polymicrogyria (3 cases), hemimegalencephaly (1 case), lissencephaly (1 case), schizencephaly (2 cases), heterotopias (3 cases), cavernous hemangioma (1 case), and AV malformation (1 case). Additionally, neoplastic lesions (6 cases), neurocysticercosis (5 cases), tuberculoma (4 cases), hippocampal sclerosis (3 cases), post-hypoxic and cerebrovascular accident gliosis (3 cases), leukodystrophies (2 cases), and non-lesional cases (58 cases) were documented. Pediatric neuroimaging in symptomatic seizures may present with normal findings, influenced by interpreter bias and the non-uniform availability of 3T MRI across different medical centers. The diverse causative factors for symptomatic seizures underscore the impact of demographic features, including the endemicity of specific infections and birth injuries, on the observed variability across medical centers. These findings underscore the imperative for a comprehensive understanding and standardization in pediatric neuroimaging practices.

Molecular characterization and serodiagnostic evaluation of the Echinococcus ortleppi recombinant glutaredoxin 1 protein for cystic echinococcosis in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by the metacestode of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.), adversely affects the physiology of the vital organs in which they grow. Condemnation of meat causes substantial economic loss to the livestock industry. Conventionally the infection is detected by necropsy as serological diagnosis of the infection in livestock is ambiguous. Identification of specific diagnostic antigens would be a substitute for the cyst fluid antigens which lack adequate diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. BLAST analysis supported by the negligible pairwise nucleotide distance of the 389 nt COX1, 489 nt NAD1, and 425 nt ITS1 with the related sequences of E. ortleppi ascertained the association of E. ortleppi with CE in buffaloes. Given the extensive distribution of glutaredoxin 1 in every developmental stage of Echinococcus granulosus s.l that makes it an ideal serodiagnostic antigen for CE, we expressed the 14 kDa E. ortleppi glutaredoxin 1 (rEoGrx1) protein in E. coli BL21 (DE3) and tested a total of 225 sera samples, including 126 sera samples from the necropsy-positive buffalo, by the rEoGrx1 IgG-ELISA. The ELISA could detect a total of 82/126 sera samples as positive. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the rEoGrx1 IgG-ELISA were 65.1 % and 51.5 %, respectively. The protein showed serological cross-reaction against Fasciola gigantica, Toxoplasma gondii, and Sarcocystis sp. The in silico bioinformatics analysis of the E. ortleppi, F. gigantica, and T. gondii glutaredoxin sequences revealed fully conserved amino acids at positions 11 and 21, the substitution of conserved amino acids at positions 14 and 6, and semi-conserved substitutions at positions 3 and 4, respectively. The findings partly explain the molecular basis of the serological cross-reactivity of the protein.

Thermodynamic Investigation of a Modified Compression Ignition Engine Fueled by Diesel Biodiesel Ethanol Blends

The present study contrasts the thermodynamics analysis of modified diesel engines with traditional diesel engines. Thermodynamics study is done by the use of energy and exergy analysis for diesel, B20 (blend of 80 per cent diesel by volume with 20 per cent mahua biodiesel) and LHR modification and LTC 15 per cent EGR fuelled with B20 blend and 5 per cent ethanol with various loads ranging from no load to full load. Implemented two technologies for increasing engine efficiency. One of the primary techniques is the Low Heat Rejection (LHR) concept (or the so-called “Adiabatic” engine) applied. In the engine cylinder, a ceramic layer of Alumina (Al2O3) was used to modify the Low Heat Rejection (LHR). Another technique is Low-temperature combustion (LTC) modes are added by joining the inlet and exhaust pipes through valves to control the exhaust gas at an optimal rate of 15 per cent. The findings of energy and exergy distribution in the engine were compared using optimum alterations with fuel blends such as 20 per cent mahua biodiesel and 5 per cent ethanol. From energy distribution, best shaft power (QBP) (2.8kW) is transformed from heat input observed in the optimum altered engine at full load conditions compared to others. Due to modifications employed in the engine and fuels. Maximum unaccounted energy (QUN) loss in diesel (44 %). And highest thermal efficiency (31.2 %) is revealed in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC). From exergy distribution, it noticed that the same trend of energy distribution and at 100 per cent load condition, maximum (12.54kW) in diesel and minimum (8.45 kW) in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC) has obtained input availability (Ain).The maximum conversion rate of availability in brake power (Abp) (0.61 kW) in B20 (LHR). Compared to diesel, second law or exergetic efficiency more in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC). 

Prevalence of Periodontal Disease and Oral Hygiene Practices in Kancheepuram District Population: An Epidemiological Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of periodontal disease status and oral hygiene practices in urban and rural population of Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, India.

METHODS

This epidemiological survey was carried out on 1650 participants taken from both urban and rural areas of Kancheepuram District. The study groups will belong to rural and urban areas in the ratio of 1:2, respectively. Every individual was assessed with the oral hygiene index-simplified, community periodontal index of treatment needs and periodontal disease index. In addition, the oral hygiene practices were also studied and recorded in a specially designed pro forma. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS 19.0 software.

RESULTS

The study showed that 50% and 36% of the study participants have gingivitis and periodontitis, respectively, while only 14% of the study participants did not present with any form of periodontal disease. The study also showed that 16.63% of the study subjects among urban and 7.63% of them among rural do not have any type of periodontal disease. About 57.09% of the study participants among urban and 36.54% of the study participants among rural areas have gingivitis. The remaining 26.3% of the study participants in urban areas and 55.8% of the study participants in rural areas have periodontitis. It was observed that majority of participants brush once a day using Medium bristle tooth brush and toothpaste as dentifrice.

CONCLUSION

Periodontal disease is widely spread among population of Kancheepuram District, with greater prevalence in rural population than in urban population. This could be mainly due to the lack of awareness and limited availability of resources. These estimates are vital for the future planning of dental services in Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, India.

Formation and weathering assessment of oil-suspended sediment aggregates through a laboratory investigation

Formation of oil-suspended sediment aggregates (OSAs) is believed to be one of the natural cleaning processes in the marine environment. In this study, we have investigated the formation processes of OSAs under different mixing periods (continuous mixing and with the addition of sediments in between), oil-sediment ratios (1:1, 1:2 and 2:1) and crude oils (Arabian Light (AL), Kuwait (KW) and Murban (MB)). The results revealed that size of OSAs significantly increased (up to ≈ 1.41 mm) with the addition of sediments. Aggregates (total 36) were extracted for n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to quantify and assess their weathering and toxic levels. The maximum n-alkane depletion was 84% (111-02), 94% (212-02) and 84% (321-02) and PAH depletion was ≈ 72% (111-02), 79% (212-02) and 81% (311-03) for the OSAs of AL, KW and MB crude oils, respectively, for the different samples considered, indicating that n-alkanes were depleted relatively higher than the PAHs. The highest depletion of both n-alkane and PAHs has occurred in OSAs of 10-h continuous mixing. The depletion of both n-alkane and PAHs reduced after the addition of sediments, however, escalated the growth of OSAs, resulting in bigger size OSAs. The concentration of PAHs of all 36 OSAs is greater than 5000 ng/g, indicating very high PAH pollution. Though the formation of OSAs helps in cleaning the spill sites, the carcinogenic threat to the marine ecosystem caused by these OSAs cannot be ignored.

Couroupita guianensis Induced Facial Synthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles and its Antimicrobial Property on Impregnated Cotton Fabric

This paper explores the novel approach towards bio-reduction using Couroupita guianensis flower extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles. The experiments were conducted at a constant temperature of [Formula: see text]C. The surface plasmon resonance band of silver and gold nanoparticles occurred at 420[Formula: see text]nm and 540[Formula: see text]nm, respectively. The investigation proved that the formation of silver nanoparticle started within 7[Formula: see text]min and it was completed at end of 6[Formula: see text]h, while in the case of gold nanoparticles the reaction completed in 5.30[Formula: see text]h. The characterization of the formed nanoparticles was performed using transmission electron microscope, zeta potential and x-ray diffraction studies. The size of the silver and gold nanoparticles ranged between 10[Formula: see text]nm and 18[Formula: see text]nm and 5[Formula: see text]nm and 28[Formula: see text]nm, respectively. The effectiveness of cotton fabric impregnated with silver and gold nanoparticles was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Photocatalytic, antiproliferative and antimicrobial properties of copper nanoparticles synthesized using Manilkara zapota leaf extract: A photodynamic approach

Copper nanoparticles were synthesized using Manilkara zapota leaf extract. The synthesis of the nanoparticle was primarily visualized when the colour of the reaction mixture turned into reddish-brown. Biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis, FT-IR, XRD, SEM and EDX. The UV spectra showed maximum absorption at 584 nm. FT-IR studies showed stretching frequency at 592.76 cm^-1, which is the fingerprint region for Cu-O bond. The crystallinity of the synthesized copper nanoparticles (Mz-Cu NPs) was revealed through XRD analysis. The synthesized Mz-Cu NPs were spherical with an average size of 18.9-42.5 nm and it was shown by SEM analysis. EDX analysis displayed that the nano sample contains 58 % of copper. The antimicrobial property of the synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated against fungal plant pathogens Rhizoctonia solani (MTCC 12232), Sclerotium oryzae (MTCC 12230) and bacterial species, namely Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 23857), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Vibrio harveyi (ATCC 35084), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (ATCC 33845). In in-vitro haemolytic assay, the particle showed 5.73, 3.34, 0.5 % hemolysis at 100, 50, 25 μg/mL concentration respectively. In the antiproliferative assay, the IC₅₀ values of MCF7 and Vero cells were found to be 53.89 and 883.69 μg/μl. The particle degraded Methyl violet, Malachite green and Coomassie brilliant blue by 92.2, 94.9 and 78.8 %, within 50, 40 and 60 min, respectively, through its photocatalytic activity.

Decadal changes in the land use/land cover and shoreline along the coastal districts of southern Gujarat, India

The coastal zone along the districts of Surat, Navsari, and Valsad in southern Gujarat, India, is reported to be facing serious environmental challenges in the form of shoreline erosion, wetland loss, and man-made encroachments. This study assesses the decadal land use/ land cover (LULC) changes in these three districts for the years 1990, 2001, and 2014 using satellite datasets of Landsat TM, ETM, and OLI. The LULC changes are identified by using band ratios as a pre-classification step, followed by implementation of hybrid classification (a combination of supervised and unsupervised classification). An accuracy assessment is carried out for each dataset, and the overall accuracy ranges from 90 to 95%. It is observed that the spatial extents of aquaculture, urban built-up, and barren classes have appreciated over time, whereas the coverage of mudflats has depreciated due to rapid urbanization. The changes in the shoreline of these districts have also been analyzed for the same years, and significant changes are found in the form of shoreline erosion. The LULC maps prepared as well as the shoreline change analysis done for this study area will enable the local decision makers to adopt better land-use planning and shoreline protection measures, which will further aid in sustainable future developments in this region.

Comparative immediate effect of different yoga asanas on heart rate and blood pressure in healthy young volunteers

Introduction:

This study planned to compare immediate cardiovascular effects of different yoga asanas in healthy young volunteers.

Materials and Methods:

Heart rate (HR), systolic pressure (SP), and diastolic pressure (DP), blood pressure (BP), were recorded using the non invasive blood pressure (NIBP) apparatus in 22 healthy young subjects, before and after the performance of Dhanurasana (DA), Vakrasana (VA) (both sides), Janusirasasana (JSA) (both sides), Matsyasana and Shavasana for 30 s. HR and BP were further recorded during supine recovery at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 min. A repeated measure of ANOVA was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

There were significant changes in HR and BP both immediately after the Asanas as well as during the recovery period. Overall comparisons of ∆% changes immediately after the performance of the Asanas revealed significant differences with regard to HR that increased significantly after DA. In the recovery phase, there were significant intergroup differences from 2 min onward in both SP and DP. The decrease of SP after VA (right side) (VA-R) was significantly greater than Shavasana (4^th, 6^th, and 8^th min) and JSA (left side) (JSA-L) at 6^th and 8^th min. DP decreased significantly after performing JSA-L compared to VA-R at the 6^th and 8^th min.

Discussion:

The cardiovascular changes immediately after the Asanas and during the recovery phase reveal inherent differences between the selected postures. The rise of HR in DA may be attributed to increased sympathetic response due to the relative difficulty of the posture as well as abdominal compression occurring in it. The effect of supine relaxation is more pronounced after the performance of the Asanas as compared to mere relaxation in Shavasana. This may be attributed to a normalization and resultant homeostatic effect occurring due to a greater, healthier de-activation of the autonomic nervous system occurring towing to the presence of prior activation. There were also subtle differences between the right sided and left sided performance of VA and JSA that may be occurring due to the different internal structures being either compressed or relaxed on either side.

Conclusion:

Our study provides initial evidence of differential cardiovascular effects of Asanas and subtle differences between right and left sided performance. Further, cardiovascular recovery is greater after the performance of the Asanas as compared to shavasan; thus, implying a better response when effort precedes relaxation.

Differential effects of uninostril and alternate nostril pranayamas on cardiovascular parameters and reaction time

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have reported the differential physiological and psychological effects of yogic uninostril breathing (UNB) and alternate nostril breathing (ANB) techniques. This study aims to determine differential effects of these techniques on reaction time (RT), heart rate (HR), and blood pressure (BP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty yoga-trained subjects came to the lab on six different days and RT, HR, and BP were recorded randomly before and after nine rounds of right UNB (surya nadi [SN]), left UNB (chandra nadi [CN]), right initiated ANB (surya bhedana [SB]), left initiated ANB (chandra bhedana [CB]), nadi shuddhi (NS), and normal breathing (NB).

RESULTS

Overall comparison of ∆ % changes showed statistically significant differences between groups for all parameters. There was an overall reduction in HR- and BP-based parameters following CB, CN, and NS with concurrent increases following SB and SN. The differential effects of right nostril initiated (SB and SN) and left nostril initiated (CB, CN, and NS) UNB and ANB techniques were clearly evidenced. Changes following NB were insignificant in all respects. The overall comparison of ∆ % changes for RT showed statistically significant differences between groups that were significantly lowered following both SB and SN.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our study provides evidence of sympathomimetic effects of right nostril initiated pranayamas with sympatholytic/parasympathomimetic effect following left nostril initiated pranayamas. We suggest that the main effect of UNB and ANB techniques is determined by the nostril used for inspiration rather than that used for expiration. We conclude that right and left yogic UNB and ANB techniques have differential physiological effects that are in tune with the traditional swara yoga concept that air flow through right nostril (SN and pingala swara) is activatory in nature, whereas the flow through left nostril (CN and ida swara) is relaxatory.

Safety, tolerability and clinical efficacy of ultra-rush sublingual immunotherapy among patients suffering from allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Conventional immunotherapy for allergy with 3-5 years of treatment period has poor compliance. Ultra-rush sublingual immunotherapy with a shorter period of treatment can have better compliance. There are very few studies on ultra-rush sublingual immunotherapy all over the world.

OBJECTIVES

(1) To determine allergen sensitivity among allergic rhinitis patients. (2) To assess safety, tolerability and clinical efficacy of ultra-rush sublingual immunotherapy.

METHODS

The present study was conducted in Allergy clinic, KIMS Hospital & Research Centre, Bangalore, India from January 2010 to June 2011. After obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee approval, 40 allergic rhinitis patients (according to ARIA guidelines) in the 18-60 years age group who were positive for aeroallergens in skin prick test were recruited for ultra-rush sublingual immunotherapy (20min initial phase and 4-month maintenance phase) and followed for 8 months with symptom and treatment diary.

RESULTS

Out of 40 patients, the majority, 36 (90.00%) patients were sensitive to house dust mites. Six patients had seven immediate adverse reactions and seven patients had eight delayed adverse reactions. All subsided without medication or with symptomatic oral medications. All patients tolerated ultra-rush SLIT and there was significant decrease in both symptom-score and treatment received in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Ultra-rush SLIT regimen has excellent safety, tolerability and clinical efficacy among allergic rhinitis patients.

Magnetic resonance imaging of diabetic muscle infarction: report of two cases

Diabetic muscle infarction (DMI) occurs as a rare complication of long standing or severe diabetes mellitus. The condition usually occurs spontaneously and patients usually present with acute pain and swelling of affected muscles which persists for weeks, and resolves spontaneously without intervention. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the modality of choice in patients with suspected DMI based on appropriate clinical setting and plays a major role in the diagnosis, assessing the extent of involvement and differentiating DMI from other conditions. The DMI affected muscles are bulky and appear heterogeneous with hyperintense signals on T2-weighted and STIR sequences, hypo or isointense on T1-weighted images with loss of normal fatty intramuscular septae. Subcutaneous and perifascial edema can be present. On postgadolinium scans, there is diffuse heterogeneous enhancement with non-enhancing foci, which may represent areas of necrosis. Biopsy can be avoided as MR findings are highly sensitive and specific. Treatment is usually conservative. Surgical intervention is required only in patients who do not respond to conservative management. The common differential diagnosis includes cellulitis, abscess, necrotizing fasciitis and polymyositis. We present two cases below to highlight the clinical, MR imaging findings and differential diagnosis of DMI.

Ptosis correction: a challenge following complex orbital injuries

Ptosis occurs when the muscles that raise the upper eyelid (levator and Muller's muscle) get damaged. There are lot of ptosis correction surgery reported in the journals of oculoplastic surgery and opthalmic surgery. Most of these surgeries are cosmetic correction. Rarely ptosis can be seen as a complication following orbitozygomatic complex injuries. Cause of traumatic ptosis most often is levator detachment from the superior tarsal plate. Lacerations of the lid may sever the levator tendon leading to scarring and secondary mechanical ptosis. Challenge in surgical management lies in identification of Levator aponeurosis, posterior to orbital septum and preaponeuratic fat. Once the levator muscle is freed from scar tissue it should be reapproximated to tarsal plate.

Immediate effects of Suryanamaskar on reaction time and heart rate in female volunteers

Suryanamaskar (SN), a yogic technique is composed of dynamic muscular movements synchronised with deep rhythmic breathing. As it may have influence on CNS, this study planned to investigate immediate effects of SN on reaction time (RT) and heart rate (HR). 21 female volunteers attending yoga classes were recruited for study group and 19 female volunteers not participating in yoga were recruited as external-controls. HR, auditory reaction time (ART) and visual reaction time (VRT) were recorded before and after three rounds of SN in study group as well as 5 minutes of quiet sitting in both groups. Performance of SN produced immediate decrease in both VRT and ART (P < 0.001). This was significant when compared to self-control period (P < 0.001) and compared to external-control group, it decreased significantly in ART (p = 0.02). This was pronounced when delta% was compared between groups (P < 0.001). HR increased significantly following SN compared with both self-control (p = 0.025) and external-control group (p = 0.032). Faster reactivity may be due to intermediate level of arousal by conscious synchronisation of dynamic movements with breathing. Rise in HR is attributed to sympathetic arousal and muscular exertion. We suggest that SN may be used as an effective training means to improve neuro-muscular abilities.

Cystic Lymphangioma of the Breast: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to report magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of cystic lymphangiomas of the breast. METHODS: MRI of the breast was performed using a phased-array double breast coil with a 1.5-T MR scanner. Routine T1 and T2 and post-contrast sequential imaging was performed. RESULTS: The MRI characteristics of cystic lymphangioma in the breast are described. CONCLUSION: MR imaging provides for multiplanar evaluation and diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma of the breast, which is a rare occurrence.

Frontoethmoidal encephalocele with subependymal nodular heterotopia: an unusual association. A case report

Frontonasal encephaloceles involve herniation of meninges and brain tissue through defects in the floor of the anterior cranial fossa affecting the frontal, ethmoid and nasal bones. Subependymal nodular heterotopias are malformations of cortical development resulting from abnormal neuronal migration. This report describes the coexistence and association of these two entities which is extremely rare. We describe an unusual case of a six-year-old girl with a frontonasal encephalocele in whom further imaging disclosed subependymal nodular heterotopias. Clinically she presented with swelling over the glabella since birth but otherwise was asymptomatic. CT and MRI showed herniation of brain tissue with the overlying dura and CSF through a defect in the frontal, ethmoid and nasal bones. In addition, MRI revealed heterotopic nodules in the subependymal regions of the lateral ventricles that were isointense with grey matter on all sequences. The patient underwent one stage surgery for correction of the encephalocele.

Ovarian carcinoma metastasis to the breast and imaging features with histopathologic correlation: a case report and review of the literature

Metastasis to the breast from primary ovarian carcinoma is rare. We describe a case in which the patient developed breast metastasis 3 years after initial treatment of a primary ovarian cancer.

A rare case of solitary fibrous tumour of the sigmoid mesocolon: imaging features and review of literature

Solitary fibrous tumours are rare spindle cell tumours that generally arise from the pleura but on rare occasions arise in other locations such as the head and neck region, stomach and retroperitoneum. Very few reports exist on the imaging findings of these tumours in extra pleural sites such as the mesentery. We report the computed tomography (CT) imaging findings of a rare case of solitary fibrous tumour in a 68-year-old man who presented with a slowly enlarging painless pelvic mass. CT scan showed a well-defined, multilobulated, highly vascular pelvic mass with dense calcifications and central hypoatteunating areas arising from the mesentery.

Neuroimaging patterns of central nervous system metastases in neuroblastoma: report of 2 recent cases and literature review

The authors describe imaging patterns of intracranial metastases in 2 children with grade 4 neuroblastoma. Central nervous system metastases from neuroblastoma are extremely rare and may involve the cerebral parenchyma, leptomeninges, or dura. Cerebral parenchymal metastases can be cystic with mural nodules or solid with hemorrhagic elements. The first patient in our study had multiple cystic parenchymal metastases with calcific mural nodules, while the second patient developed solid hemorrhagic parenchymal metastatic lesions along with extensive leptomeningeal and dural deposits. Central nervous system involvement in both patients occurred within a time span ranging from 12 to 14 months from the time of initial diagnosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of a Benign Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast

SUMMARY: BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate a phyllodes tumor of the breast with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. METHODS: MRI of the breasts was performed using a phased array double breast coil with spectroscopic capability on a 1.5T MR scanner. Post-contrast sequential imaging was done, and the subtracted images were evaluated. Timesignal intensity curves were obtained. MR spectroscopy using BREASE software was also performed. RESULTS: MRI combined with MR spectroscopy was used in the diagnosis and characterization of a phyllodes tumor of the breast. CONCLUSION: MRI and MR spectroscopy may offer an in vivo imaging technique for the characterization of phyllodes tumors of the breast.

Multivoxel (1)H MR Spectroscopic Approach to the Diagnosis of Intraventricular Central Neurocytoma. A Case Report

We describe the proton ((1)H) magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) imaging of central neurocytoma (CNC), a rare benign intraventricular neuronal tumor. Multivoxel MR Spectroscopy is a feasible and reproducible non-invasive tool for the specific diagnosis of CNC and to distinguish CNC from other intraventricular tumor types. The detection of glycine and alanine peaks, high choline and lactate and low NAA levels are characteristic of CNC.

Influence of alpha lipoic acid on antioxidant status in D-galactosamine-induced hepatic injury

D-Galactosamine (GalN)-induced liver injury is associated with reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on acute GalN-induced oxidative liver injury. Hepatotoxicity induced by single intraperitoneal injection of GalN (500 mg/kg body wt) was evident from increase in lipid peroxidation and serum marker enzymes (asparate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase). The decreased activities of enzymic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase) as well as glutathione levels were the salient features observed in GalN-induced hepatotoxicity. Pretreatment with ALA (50 mg/kg body weight for 7 days) significantly precluded these changes and prevents the hepatic injury. Hence, this study clearly exemplified that ALA might be a suitable candidate against GalN-induced cellular abnormalities.

Chemotherapy-Induced Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in Childhood Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinico-radiological phenomenon seen in a wide spectrum of clinical conditions and is characterized clinically by headache, altered mental status, visual loss and seizures and reversible neuroimaging findings. This study evaluated MR imaging in PRES in a clinical oncology setting. MR findings may be helpful in disclosing the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of the syndrome. The MR imaging protocol consisted of T2–weighted, fluid attenuation inversion recovery (FLAIR), diffusion weighting imaging (DWI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) sequences. Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the brain revealed bilateral symmetric subcortical hypodense lesions in the parieto-occipital regions. T2–weighted and FLAIR sequences showed bilateral, symmetrical focal cortical and subcortical hyperintensities involving the parietal and occipital lobes. These areas appeared hyperintense on DWI while the ADC (Apparent Diffusion Coefficient) maps demonstrated higher apparent diffusion coefficients in areas of FLAIR abnormalities thus confirming vasogenic edema. Follow-up scan five days later showed improvement or resolution of the abnormalities. Transient DWI hyperintensities seen in cortical watershed areas corresponding to the hyperintense foci in FLAIR imaging are suggestive of foci of vasogenic edema secondary to vasospasm in highly ischemia-sensitive cerebral tissue.

Imaging of desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma: a spectroscopic viewpoint

PURPOSE

Desmoplastic infantile gangliogliomas (DIG) are rare benign intracranial neoplasms of early childhood with involvement of superficial cerebral cortex and leptomeninges. The purpose of the study was to determine the alterations in metabolite ratios occurring in the neoplasm and combine with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features to narrow down the diagnosis.

METHODS

MR imaging sequences include T1- and T2-weighted sequences, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequences, and post-gadolinium-contrast T1-weighted imaging. Single-voxel short TE (1)H MR spectroscopy was used to study the changes in metabolite ratios in the tumor.

RESULTS

Comparison of metabolite ratios between normal brain tissue and tumor-affected region showed lower N-acetyl aspartate to creatine (Cr; 1.58 vs.1.28), higher choline to Cr (0.82 vs.2.03), and no significant change in myo-inositol to Cr (0.42 vs.0.39).

CONCLUSION

MR spectroscopy and imaging provide valuable information in the diagnosis of DIG.

CT imaging of malignant metastatic hemangiopericytoma of the parotid gland with histopathological correlation

We report an extremely rare case of malignant hemangiopericytoma (HPC) of the parotid gland and its metastatic spread to lung, liver, and skeletal muscle. Computed tomography (CT) imaging, histopathological and immunohistochemical methods were employed to study the features of malignant HPC and its metastases. CT imaging was helpful to determine the exact location, involvement of adjacent structures and vascularity, as well as evaluating pulmonary, hepatic, peritoneal, and muscular metastases. Immunohistochemical and histopatholgical features of the primary tumor as well as the metastases were consistent with the diagnosis of malignant HPC.

MR and CT Evaluation of Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumor

A 33-year-old man presented with a long history of intractable partial seizures with the first episode at the age of 18 years. The seizure frequency had increased in the recent past. CT imaging revealed a low attenuation lesion in the left frontal cortex with calvarial scalloping. MR imaging revealed a heterogeneous signal intensity lesion with involvement of the cortex and the sub-cortical white matter. In dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor the neoplastic elements adjacent to the cortex might cause disorganization of cortical layers in the developmental stage leading to cortical dysplasia. Architectural dysplasia is characterized by cortical thickening and ectopic neurons in the white matter. MR imaging features reflect the characteristics of cortical dysplasia and ectopic neurons in the sub-cortical white matter.

Longitudinal CT and MR appearances of hemimegalencephaly in a patient with tuberous sclerosis

CASE REPORT

A 3-day-old baby was referred to our institution with seizures since birth and a presumptive diagnosis of cerebral tumor detected by prenatal ultrasound. Computed tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging performed immediately after birth revealed the presence of an enhancing mass in the left cerebral hemisphere.

DISCUSSION

The possibility of a congenital malignant brain tumor was considered. Although surgery was advised, the parents opted for conservative medical management. The infant was under treatment for seizures with antiepileptic drugs. At 7-month follow-up, there was a noticeable increase in the seizure activity with signs of developmental delay and increased head circumference. Repeat CT and MR imaging showed features of hemimegalencephaly with a calcified mass involving the left hemisphere. The patient was diagnosed to have tuberous sclerosis. This case report illustrates how an enhancing mass (possibly a tuber) over a period of time diminishes in size and becomes calcified in a patient with tuberous sclerosis and associated hemimegalencephaly.

Pachymeningeal metastasis from squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix with involvement of the optic nerve: case report and review of the literature

This report describes the case of a 50-year-old woman with carcinomatous meningitis from squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix. Ultrasound showed an irregular hypoechoic mass in the cervix. Contrast enhanced computed tomography imaging revealed intense linear enhancement along the falx cerebri suggestive of pachymeningeal metastasis with involvement of the optic nerve. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of imaging features of isolated metastatic dural involvement from cervical carcinoma. Moreover, this is the first case of its kind in which dural involvement was diagnosed at presentation in a locally confined tumour.

CT and MR Imaging in Choroid Plexus Carcinoma

This case report describes the CT and MR appearances of choroid plexus carcinomas in children less than two years of age. MR and CT imaging of this rare tumor revealed intensely enhancing mass lesions in an intraventricular location, the atrium of the lateral ventricle being the preferred site in children. The tumors were associated with hydrocephalus and cerebral parenchymal invasion.