Reporting of Inter Fraction Dose Variations of Organs at Risk in Computed Tomography-Guided High Dose Rate Intracavitary Brachytherapy in Carcinoma Cervix

Assess the interfraction dose variations of the organs at risk (OARs) in carcinoma cervix high dose rate (HDR) computed tomography (CT)-guided intra cavitary brachytherapy (ICBT). 120 CT scans of 40 patients who had undergone three fractions of ICBT (7 Gy/fr) were analyzed. Dose to Point A and the minimum doses to the volumes of 2, 1, and 0.1cc of bladder, rectum and sigmoid colon were recorded. Revised plans were generated in 20 patients. Paired t-test was used to compare the difference in the means. Point "A" mean dose difference was statistically significant between the treated and revised plans. For bladder, the difference in means of dosage to all volumes, whilst for the rectum and sigmoid colon, the low volume dosage (0.1cc) was statistically significant. Absence of individualized planning would have resulted in underdosage of tumor and increased dosage of up to 30% to OARs. CT-guided ICBT should be implemented for each HDR fraction treatment.

Nutrient profile of five freshwater fish species

The nutrient profile of five freshwater fish species viz., Mystus vittatus, Ompok bimaculatus, Channa striata, Wallago attu and Pangasianodon hypophthalmus were studied. The proximate composition data shows that the moisture and fat content differed significantly (P<0.01) among the fish species. The fat content was significantly higher in P. hypophthalmus and M. vittatus. The moisture was significantly higher in C. striata. The potassium content was significantly (p<0.01) higher in C.striata. M.vittatus shows higher content of calcium. The other trace minerals like iron, copper and zinc contents of fish did not differ significantly among the species. The vitamin A content is maximum in O.bimaculatus whereas vitamin D content is higher in Mystus vittatus. The palmitic acid was significantly (p<0.01) higher in M. vittatus. The oleic acid was significantly (p<0.01) higher in C. striata and W. attu. The linoleic acid content was significantly (p<0.05) higher in P. hypophthalmus. One of the important PUFA i.e. DHA was significantly higher in O. bimaculatus and C.striata. The PUFA content was significantly (p<0.05) higher in O.bimaculatus and P.hypophthalmus. Among the amino acids, arginine, histidine, threonine and isoleucine were higher in P.hypophthalmus. C.striata and W. attu contain high amount of Tryptophan. Glutamic acid was high in O.bimaculatus and Aspartic acid was high in C. striata. The energy content was maximum in P. hypophthalmus. The nutrient profile of these fish species revealed that they were rich in all the essential nutrients required by human being. The information on nutrient profile of fish will give a guideline to dieticians, nutritionists, medical practitioners, researchers to advice consumers to take fish in their daily diet as a health food. SAARC J. Agri., 16(2): 25-41 (2018)

Community-Based Cancer Screening Program: The DESH (Detect Early Save Her, Him) Initiative of Piramal Swasthya

Background and context: Two-thirds of global cancer deaths are from less developed countries. Late stage presentation and inability to access care are observed to be higher in lower and middle-income countries resulting in avoidable deaths and disability. Kamrup district in Assam has the fourth highest incidence of cancers in India. Detect Early Save Her, Him (DESH) initiative by Piramal Swasthya in Kamrup district focuses on reducing late-stage diagnosis and mortality. Aim: To reduce the proportion of late-stage diagnosis and mortality from breast, cervical and oral cancers through a community based screening and referral program. Strategy: 1. Community level interventions to increase awareness, improve knowledge, alter attitudes and motivate and mobilize people to undergo screening. 2. Evidence based highly sensitive screening and referral through mobile cancer screening unit. 3. Partnering with a regional cancer care institute (Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute - BBCI) to ensure end to end care to the patients. Program: DESH initiative in partnership with BBCI was launched in November 2017. The Mobile Cancer Screening Unit (MCSU) is fully equipped with state-of-the-art cancer screening facilities including a mammography unit. It is staffed by trained medical doctor, two nurses, a radiographer, two community mobilization officers, a counselor, a driver and a helper. Apart from the driver and the helper, the entire staff is women. In consultation with community networks, a schedule is prepared to conduct awareness programs at the community level. Subsequently, the MCSU visits the village and the staff screen the adult population over the age of 30 years for the presence of oral, breast and cervical cancer. A vehicle ferries those who are screened positive, to BBCI for diagnostic tests. The program is also supported by a helpline, which provides tele-counseling for suspected cases of cancer. Outcomes: A total of 1750 beneficiaries have been screened for oral, breast and cervical cancers through 43 screening clinics in 18 villages of Kamrup district from November 2017 through March 2018. Of them, 57% were females. 57 beneficiaries (3.25%) were screen-positive. Majority were positive for oral cancers (n=50) followed by breast and cervical cancers. Out of the 15 beneficiaries who visited BBCI, 3 were confirmed to have oral cancer. What was learned: Rural community of Kamrup district has been very receptive of the screening program with 1750 people screened in a short duration of time. Many screen-positive patients have not yet to visited the hospital for diagnostic tests, due to their financial difficulties. With financial support from the government through a special scheme, the number of screen-positive patients reaching the hospital for diagnostic tests is expected to increase substantially. DESH initiative aims to screen 15,000 individuals in the next 12 months and the results will provide better insights about the scalability and impact of the program.

Abstract P1-10-15: Development of humanized anti-CD47 monoclonal antibodies with differentiated functional profiles

CD47 is a cell surface transmembrane protein that binds to signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) on macrophages and results in a “don't eat me” signal that inhibits phagocytosis. Breast cancer cells, both primary and metastatic, frequently overexpress CD47 and exploit this pathway to evade macrophage-mediated destruction. Anti-CD47 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) block the CD47/SIRPα interaction and promote tumor cell destruction via phagocytosis. Anti-CD47 mAbs also contribute to an anti-tumor T-cell response in immune-competent mice. Therefore, anti-CD47 antibodies represent a new class of immune checkpoint inhibitors that modulate both the innate and adaptive immune systems.

CD47 is expressed on multiple cell types, including tumor cells and normal cells. Many anti-CD47 mAbs block the CD47/SIRPα interaction and cause phagocytosis of tumor cells, but do not directly induce the death of human tumor cells. Tioma has created new humanized anti-CD47 mAbs with novel and differentiated functional profiles to enhance functional heterogeneity. Ti-104, Ti-176 and Ti-108 block the binding of SIRPα to CD47 and increase phagocytosis of human tumor cells. They also induce cell death of human hematological and solid tumor cell lines (including breast cancer lines) in a cell autonomous manner. Cell death was determined by an increase in phosphatidylserine-positive/7AAD-positive tumor cells assessed by flow cytometry following incubation in media containing anti-CD47 mAb or a negative control immunoglobulin. In vitro, these mAbs bind to human tumor cell lines with apparent binding affinities ranging from low pM to low nM, depending on the cell line and method of analysis (solid-phase or cell-based ELISA, flow cytometry or surface plasmon resonance). In vitro, Ti-104 and Ti-108 bind to human RBCs, whereas Ti-176 has markedly reduced binding to human and cynomolgus monkey RBCs.

In a four-week (once-weekly dosing) exploratory safety study in cynomolgus monkeys with Ti-176 and Ti-108, no dose-limiting toxicity or gross pathological or microscopic findings were identified after an initial dose of 5 mg/kg (Week 1) followed by doses of 50 mg/kg (Weeks 2, 3, and 4). Ti-176 treatment resulted in minimal decrease in red cell mass, hemoglobin and hematocrit, which corresponded in vitro to markedly reduced binding to cynomolgus monkey RBCs. Ti-108 caused transient reduction of RBC parameters comparable to some previously reported anti-CD47 mAbs.

Ti-104, Ti-176 and Ti-108 showed potent, dose-dependent efficacy in multiple mouse tumor models, including in the MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer orthotopic model.

These data provide the preclinical rationale for further evaluation of Ti-104, Ti-176 and Ti-108 as breast cancer treatments.

Citation Format: Karr RW, Liu K, Hiebsch R, Capoccia B, Donio M, Crowley K, Puro R, Chanda S, Manning P. Development of humanized anti-CD47 monoclonal antibodies with differentiated functional profiles [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-10-15.

Nutrient profile of Indian climbing perch, Anabas testudineus

The proximate composition, fatty acid, amino acid and fat soluble vitamins of Indian climbing perch, Anabas testudineus, locally called “Koi” were assayed in relation to its body weight. The fish samples were collected from different geographical locations and were grouped as small (10-50g) and big (52-150g) sizes. The proximate composition, essential amino acid (EAA) and non-essential amino acid (NEAA) contents in Koi did not differ significantly between the groups. The monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content was significantly (P<0.05) higher in bigger sized Koi. The polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content was 23.67±0.85 and 13.62±1.02 (%) respectively in the small and big sizes of Koi, while the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was significantly higher in small Koi. The vitamin A content was 85.77±0.35 and 93.90 ±1.34 (I.U./100g) respectively in small and big Koi. Vitamin D content was significantly higher in small Koi compared to big one. Vitamin E and K were significantly (P<0.05) higher in big Koi. The results indicated that Anabas testudineus is a good source of protein, fat, vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids.SAARC J. Agri., 15(1): 99-109 (2017)

Crisaborole and its potential role in treating atopic dermatitis: overview of early clinical studies

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by intense pruritus and eczematous lesions with up to 90% of patients presenting with mild to moderate disease. Current topical treatments for AD have not changed in over 15 years and are associated with safety concerns. In AD, overactivity of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), leads to inflammation and disease exacerbation. Crisaborole Topical Ointment, 2%, is a novel, nonsteroidal, topical anti-inflammatory PDE4 inhibitor currently being investigated for the treatment of mild to moderate AD. Preliminary studies in children and adults demonstrated favorable efficacy and safety profiles. Crisaborole may represent an anti-inflammatory option that safely minimizes the symptoms and severity of AD and that can be used for both acute and long-term management.

Tavaborole topical solution, 5% for the treatment of toenail onychomycosis

Tavaborole topical solution, 5% (tavaborole) is a novel, boron-based, antifungal pharmaceutical agent indicated for treatment of toenail onychomycosis due to the dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum or Trichophyton mentagrophytes. In preclinical studies, tavaborole effectively penetrated through full-thickness, non-diseased cadaver fingernails, including those with up to four layers of nail polish. Limited systemic absorption was observed following topical application of tavaborole. In phase III clinical trials involving patients with distal subungual onychomycosis affecting 20-60% of a target great toenail, significantly more patients treated with tavaborole versus vehicle achieved completely clear nail with negative mycology following daily application for 48 weeks. Treatment-emergent adverse events reported by at least 1% of patients treated with tavaborole and at a greater frequency versus vehicle included ingrown toenail, exfoliation, erythema and dermatitis. Treatment discontinuations were uncommon. Results from preclinical studies and phase III clinical trials establish tavaborole as a safe and efficacious treatment for toenail onychomycosis.

A comparative immunological analysis of CoCl2 treated cells with in vitro hypoxic exposure

The hypoxic preconditioning of mammalian cells has been shown to have beneficial effects against hypoxic injuries. However, very little information is available on the comparative analysis of immunological responses to hypoxic and hypoxia mimetic exposure. Therefore, in the present study, mouse peritoneal macrophages and splenocytes were subjected to hypoxia exposure (0.5 % O2) and hypoxia mimetic Cobalt chloride (CoCl2) treatment to evaluate their effect on immune response and delineate the underlying signaling mechanisms. The results obtained indicated that super oxide generation increased while TLR4 expression and cell surface markers like CD25, CD40 and CD69 were suppressed in both the treatments as compared to normoxia. Cobalt chloride treatment increased NF-κB expression, nitric oxide (NO) and iNOS expression, cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 as compared to hypoxia exposure. Our study showed that CoCl2 stabilizes HIF-1α to create hypoxia like conditions but it mainly influences the inflammatory response via NF-κB signaling pathway by skewing the production of proinflammatory molecules like TNF-α, IL-6 and NO.

Dengue virus infection activates cellular chaperone Hsp70 in THP-1 cells: downregulation of Hsp70 by siRNA revealed decreased viral replication

The pathogenic mechanism of dengue virus infection is related to the host responses within target cells, and therefore we assessed intracellular changes in stress proteins following dengue virus infection. This study provides evidence that Hsp70 helps in viral multiplication by suppressing the type 1 interferon response. Dengue virus infection in human monocytic THP-1 cells led to overexpression of Hsp70, which also acts as a chaperone. The functional role of Hsp70 in dengue virus multiplication was identified by downregulating the Hsp70 gene with its specific siRNA duplexes, which led to a decrease in viral RNA copy numbers in cellular supernatants and intracellular viral load. It also resulted in an increased IFN-α level, which mediates its antiviral effect through double-stranded RNA-induced protein kinase-PKR. Collectively these results suggest that an increased level of Hsp70 expression in dengue-virus-infected THP-1 cells assists in viral replication by escaping the antiviral effect of type 1 interferon.

Determination of antibacterial and antioxidant potential of some medicinal plants from saurashtra region, India

Many plants used in Saurashtra folk medicine have been reported to exhibit high antibacterial and antioxidant activities. In the present study, some parts of five plants, Guazuma ulmifolia L., Manilkara zapota L., Melia azedarach L., Syzygium cumini L. and Wrightia tomentosa R.& S., were evaluated for their antibacterial activity, total phenol content, flavonoid content, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity and phytochemical analysis, using successive extraction by cold percolation method with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol and water. In vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated against five bacterial strains viz. Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium and Enterobacter aerogenes by agar well diffusion method. Among the plants screened, W. tomentosa leaf and fruit showed the best antibacterial activity. The Gram-positive bacteria were more susceptible than Gram-negative bacteria. Methanol extract of M. zapota showed the best 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity. Highest total phenol content was shown by M. zapota and S. cumini in methanol extract, while highest flavonoid content was shown by W. tomentosa stem in petroleum ether extract and ethyl acetate extract. In all the plants, cardiac glycosides and triterpenes were more as compared to other phytoconstituents.

RNA interference mediated silencing of Hsp60 gene in human monocytic myeloma cell line U937 revealed decreased dengue virus multiplication

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) or stress proteins are highly conserved molecules and expressed in all cell types under stressful conditions like heat, cold, hypoxia and infections. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of dengue virus infection on relative expression of stress proteins and their role in the progression of the infection. As macrophages are the primary host for dengue, human promonocytic myeloblastoma U937 cells were infected with dengue virus type 2 New Guinea C strain for the evaluation of Hsps expression. A significant expression of Hsp60 was observed in virally infected U937 cells as compared to controls. In order to determine the correlation between Hsp60 expression and viral multiplication in infected cells, expression of Hsp60 was down regulated by RNA interference. Viral multiplication was determined by quantification of viral RNA copy number using Real Time PCR and plaque formation assay in cellular supernatants of Hsp60 silenced cells. Intracellular quantification of viral load was also determined by flow cytometry. It was observed that down regulation of Hsp60 in virally infected cells resulted into decrease in viral RNA copy number, plaque forming units and intracellular viral load. At the same time down regulation also resulted in increased IFN-alpha level. These observations suggest that, elevated levels of Hsp60 expression in virally infected cells may help in viral multiplication and could be possible therapeutic targets for the management of dengue virus infection.

Effect of Hippophae rhamnoides leaf extract against Dengue virus infection in human blood-derived macrophages

Dengue virus occurs as four distinct serotypes, called Dengue 1, 2, 3, and 4. Symptomatic dengue virus infection ranges from a self limited febrile illness, dengue fever (DF), to a more severe disease, dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome (DHF/DSS). The anti-Dengue treatment is severely hampered as no specific therapeutic agents are available. Even present treatment strategies for Dengue are more supportive than curative. In the present study anti-dengue activity of Hippophae rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn, SBT) leaf extract was evaluated in Dengue virus type-2 infected blood-derived human macrophages as macrophages are the primary target of Dengue virus infection. Infected cells were treated with SBT leaf extract and compared with commercially available anti-viral drug, Ribavirin. The extract was able to maintain the cell viability of Dengue-infected cells at par with Ribavirin along with the decrease and increase in TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma respectively. Anti-dengue activity of SBT extract was further determined by the traditional plaque assay. These observations suggest that the SBT leaf extract has a significant anti-dengue activity and has the potential for the treatment of Dengue.

Antibacterial and preliminary phytochemical and physico-chemical analysis of Eucalyptus citriodora Hk leaf

The present communication deals with some studies on the antibacterial, physico-chemical and phytochemical parameters of different extracts of Eucalyptus citriodora leaf. The antibacterial study was performed using the agar ditch method on some clinically important bacteria, namely Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes, Proteus vulgaris, Citrobacter freundii, Staphylococcus subflava, Bacillus megaterium, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Physico-chemical parameters namely water, methanol, 1,4-dioxane, DMF, acetone soluble extractives, total ash, melting point, and pH were determined according to pharmacopoeial procedures. Methanol gave the maximum extract while it was minimum in water. Phytochemical parameters were screened for alkaloids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, saponins, steroids and flavonoids. Tannins and flavonoids gave positive results, while steroids and glycosides were absent. The most susceptible bacteria was C. freundii, while the most resistant was P. vulgaris.

Phoenix sylvestris Roxb pollen allergy: a 2-year randomized controlled trial and follow-up study of immunotherapy in patients with seasonal allergy in an agricultural area of West Bengal, India

BACKGROUND

Although the efficacy of allergen immunotherapy has been demonstrated in seasonal pollen allergy, there is no report of a double-blind placebo-controlled trial with standardized pollen extract in seasonal respiratory allergy from India. In the agricultural area of eastern India, Phoenix sylvestris Roxb or date sugar palm is grown or cultivated and seasonal allergic rhinitis is common during the pollen season.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to observe the clinical and immunological changes during a 2-year double-blind placebo-controlled trial of immunotherapy with standardized P sylvestris pollen extract in respiratory patients sensitive to pollen from this wild date palm. Thirty-five subjects with typical seasonal allergic rhinitis with or without bronchial asthma were selected. A symptom-medication score (based on a questionnaire and diary) was correlated with pollen counts as recorded in a Burkard sampler. Eighteen subjects were randomized to a specific immunotherapy (SIT) group receiving regular injections containing standardized allergen extract and 17 to a placebo control group. Changes in the level of specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E, IgG1, and IgG4 were recorded at 3-month intervals. Measurement of wheal diameter, total IgE level and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) were performed before starting and a month after finishing therapy.

RESULTS

The SIT group showed decreases of 33.5% and 57% from the baseline symptom-medication scores during the first and second treatment season, respectively. This group showed significant decreases in skin-reactivity to P sylvestris pollen extract and in specific IgE levels, and significant increases in FEV,, specific IgGI (1.95-3.2 times higher) and IgG4 (21.24-30.83 times higher). There were no significant changes in total IgE levels. The control group showed no significant changes for any parameter except the development of new sensitization in 2 cases (to Saccharum officinarum pollen grain and Alternaria species spores). The rate of local adverse reactions was 0.024%.

CONCLUSION

After a 2-year study, allergen immunotherapy with standardized P sylvestris pollen extract was found to be effective in seasonal respiratory allergic subjects susceptible to P sylvestris pollen with a narrow range of sensitization.

Aerobiological and immunochemical studies on Carica papaya L. pollen: an aeroallergen from India

BACKGROUND

Carica papaya L. is a fruit yielding tree, wildly grown or cultivated in the tropics and subtropics. Its pollen grain has been reported to be airborne and cause immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct long-term aerobiological study on Carica pollen, along with aeroallergenic particles originating from it and to identify vis-a-vis characterize an important IgE-reactive component present in this pollen.

METHODS

The seasonal and diurnal periodicities of airborne C. papaya pollen were recorded in a 5-year survey using a Burkard volumetric sampler. The allergenic potential was studied by skin prick tests, IgE-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and also by aeroallergen immunoblotting. The total pollen extract was fractionated by Sephacryl S-200 column, and out of the eluted five fractions, the maximum IgE-reactive fraction (as found in ELISA inhibition) was resolved into five major subfractions in reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The subfraction with optimum IgE reactivity was studied by activity gel, native and nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The homogeneity of the isolated protein fraction was checked by crossed immunoelectrophoresis with rabbit antisera and IgE reactivity was confirmed by ELISA inhibition and immunoblotting using individual patient sera.

RESULTS

The Carica pollen occurred in the air round the year with peaks during January and September-October. Among a patient population of 1000, skin-test results showed 27.8% +1 level and 5.6% +2/+3 level reactions. In aeroallergen immunoblotting of exposed Burkard tape segments, the detected allergen spots showed a significant correlation with airborne pollen count recorded. The pollen extract elicited loss of IgE reactivity when treated with reducing agent-like beta-mercaptoethanol and heat, but showed six IgE-reactive components in nonreducing IgE-immunoblot. The fraction 1 eluted from Sephacryl S-200 column showed highest IgE reactivity and resolved into five major components in RP-HPLC. Out of these, the fraction showing optimum IgE reactivity in IgE-ELISA inhibition and immunoblotting with patient antisera, elicited esterase activity and found to be a homogenous protein of 100 kDa.

CONCLUSION

Carica papaya tree contributes significantly to the aeropollen and aeroallergen load of the suburban outskirts of Calcutta metropolis, India. The pollen extract contains an important IgE-reactive protein component of 100 kDa molecular weight with esterase activity.

Host-mediated juvenoids affect development and metamorphosis of endoparasitic wasp, Chelonus blackburni (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and consequent morphogenetic derangements in its reproductive system

Juvenoids, applied topically on larvae of Corcyra cephalonica harbouring the larvae of the parasitoid, produce various types of developmental derangements in parasitoid C. blackburni. The deformed morphs, e.g., apparently normal adults, adultoids and prolonged larvae were developed at different rates by different doses of juvenoids. Larval and pupal mortality rates of the parasite were 6-13 and 4-8% respectively in different treatments. Deformities in reproductive system of the parasitoid were increased or decreased ovariole number, development of compound egg chamber and ill-developed ovariole.

Differences in concentrations of allergenic pollens and spores at different heights on an agricultural farm in West Bengal, India

The aim of the study was to assess the vertical profile of the major airborne pollen and spore concentration in the lower heights (up to six meters) and to check their allergenic potential causing respiratory allergy in agricultural workers. The study was conducted using rotorod samplers mounted at different heights at weekly intervals for two consecutive years (November 1997-October 1999). The major pollen grains and fungal spores (from mass culture) were collected in bulk and studied by skin-prick tests to detect allergenicity. Of the recorded pollen, 10 major and perennial types (e.g., Poaceae, Cheno-Amaranthaceae, Cyperaceae, Areca, etc.) were considered for comparative analyses. The tree pollen count showed more or less good correlation with increasing heights, whereas herb/shrub members are dominant at lower heights during all the three seasons (winter, summer and rains). The 10 major and perennial fungal spore types included Aspergilli group, Cladosporium, Nigrospora, etc. The smaller spores were dominant at greater heights and larger spores and conidia were more prevalent at lower levels. The total spore count was higher just after the rainy season during winter. In terms of allergenicity, Saccharum officinarum (sugar cane) of Poaceae, showed highest reactivity (70.58%) in skin test carried out in 189 adult agricultural field workers with respiratory disorders living inside the study area. Among fungal spores, Aspergillus japonicus was the strongest allergen, evoking 74.07% positive reactions. Drechslera oryzae, the pathogen causing brown spot of rice was also found to be a potent allergen.

Effects of different intensities of cold stress on certain physiological phenomena related to skeletal health in a hypogonadal rat model

Intestinal transference pattern of calcium and associated changes in the activities of intestinal mucosal enzymes, rate of bone turnover and bone metabolism were evaluated in ovariectomized rats exposed to cold stress of various intensities i.e., mild (15 degrees C) or stronger (8 degrees C and 4 degrees C) for 5 min everyday for 7 consecutive days. Except mild cold stress-induced group (15 degrees C), rats of other two groups (8 degrees C and 4 degrees C) showed considerable decrease in the rate of in situ intestinal transference of calcium. Likewise, in these groups, the activities of intestinal mucosal enzymes, alkaline phosphatase (AP) and calcium ATPase (Ca2+-ATPase) were decreased significantly in all the segments of small intestine in a descending gradient. Also significant changes in bone turnover and bone resorption were confirmed in these animals by marked alterations in plasma AP activity, urinary calcium and phosphate excretion and urinary calcium to creatinine ratio (Ca: Cr). The skeletal changes were further ascertained by examining other physical and biochemical parameters of bone metabolism viz., body mass, bone density, ratio of mineral to matrix and mineral content of bone ash (calcium and phosphate) in the ovariectomized rat model. All these results suggest that stronger cold stress (8 degrees C and 4 degrees C) may be an important ecological factor in the development of earlier bone loss in hypogonadal rats.

Morphogenetic derangements in the reproductive system of Bracon hebetor, a beneficial parasitoid, bred on juvenoid treated host (Corcyra cephalonica) larvae

Effect of juvenoids (hydroprene and methoprene) on the ecto-parasite B. hebetor was investigated by rearing them upon the juvenoid treated ultimate instar host larvae of C. cephalonica. Emerged adultoid wasps of either sexes obtained from treated series showed anatomical deformities in the reproductive systems. Ill-developed ovaries with reduced length, terminally free ovarioles and abnormal testicular growth showing non-fusion of lobes were the important abnormal features. Data on measurements of male reproductive system, e.g., width (transverse axis) of testis, length of common vas deferens plus ejaculatory duct and length of accessory gland showed significant difference (P < 0.05) from control.

17beta-estradiol and ICI-182780 regulate the hair follicle cycle in mice through an estrogen receptor-alpha pathway

Estradiol (E(2)) applied topically twice weekly to mouse skin at doses as low as 1 nmol inhibited hair growth by blocking the transition of the hair follicle from the resting phase (telogen) to the growth phase (anagen). In contrast, application of </=10 nmol of other steroids produced limited inhibition. Topical treatment with the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI-182780 reversed the effects of E(2), and when applied alone, ICI-182780 caused a telogen-to-anagen transition. Both E(2) and ICI-182780 were highly effective at their site of application but not at distant sites, indicating the direct rather than secondary systemic nature of their effects. Western analysis detected a 65-kDa ER-alpha immunoreactive dermal protein, and Northern analysis revealed the presence of a 6.7-kb ER-alpha mRNA. A ribonuclease protection assay confirmed the presence of ER-alpha transcripts but failed to detect ER-beta transcripts. These findings implicate a skin-specific ER-alpha pathway in the regulation of the hair follicle cycle.

Incidence of allergenically significant fungal aerosol in a rural bakery of West Bengal, India

The frequency of fungal spores in the air of three different sections of a rural bakery was analyzed using a Burkard personal slide sampler and Andersen two stage viable sampler. In average concentration of spores (No./m3) was 228-26770/m3 and concentration of viable colony forming units (CFU/m3) was 65-2061 CFU/m3. Dominant fungus species both culturable and nonculturable, were species of Aspergillus and Penicillium, Cladosporium sp., Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Penicillium citrinum and Alternaria alternata. Seasonal variations in the spore concentrations were clearly observed in case of some fungi. Total culturable mould concentration of different bakery sections sometimes exceeded the acceptable limit for a healthy indoor environment. Antigenic extracts prepared from some dominant culturable fungi showed high level of allergenicity in skin prick tests indicating that they could be responsible for allergic respiratory dysfunction of bakery workers.

Effects of 17-beta-estradiol and ICI 182 780 on hair growth in various strains of mice

17-beta-Estradiol (10 nmol per 200 microl acetone) applied topically twice weekly to the clipped dorsal surface of C57BL/6 or C3H female mouse skin prevented hair growth, as previously described in the CD-1 mouse strain. Twice weekly topical application of the estrogen receptor antagonist, ICI 182 780 (10nmol per 200microl acetone), induced the telogenanagen transition and produced early pigmentation appearance in skin and hair growth in C57BL/6 and C3H female mice. Whereas twice weekly topical application of 10nmol 17-beta-estradiol blocked hair growth, the intraperitoneal administration of this dose twice weekly did not block hair growth, suggesting a direct cutaneous effect of 17-beta-estradiol. We also evaluated the effect of 17-alpha-estradiol, 17-beta-estradiol, and ICI 182 780 on hair growth in male mice. As observed in female mice, 17-beta-estradiol was a potent inhibitor of hair growth and ICI 182 780 stimulated hair growth; however, unlike the results previously observed in female mice, 17-alpha-estradiol was a potent inhibitor of hair growth in male mice. These results demonstrate that (i) the route of administration of 17-beta-estradiol is critical for its ability to block hair growth; (ii) C57BL/6 and C3H mice, two commonly employed mouse strains for hair growth studies, responded to 17-beta-estradiol and ICI 182 780 in a manner similar to that described in CD-1 mice; and (iii) the hair follicles of male and female mice respond similarly to 17-beta-estradiol and ICI 182 780, but display striking sex differences in the response to 17-alpha-estradiol on hair growth.

Clinicoimmunologic studies on Phoenix sylvestris Roxb. pollen: an aeroallergen from Calcutta, India

BACKGROUND

This study highlights the allergenicity and allergenic components of the pollen of Phoenix sylvestris Roxb. (PS), or date sugar palm, which is predominantly airborne in the air of Greater Calcutta.

METHODS

A 2-year aerobiologic survey was performed by Burkard sampler. PS pollen extract was used in skin tests of allergic patients, fractionated by (NH4)2SO4 and the Sephacryl S-200 column. The allergenicity of each fraction was checked by skin test and IgE ELISA inhibition. The principal allergenic fraction, Fr.lla, was separated in 11% SDS-PAGE, and its allergenicity was confirmed by IgE ELISA inhibition and immunoblotting.

RESULTS

PS pollen grains were found to be prevalent in the air of the suburban zone of Calcutta from January to March with a peak in February. The pollen extract showed high (44.07%) positive skin reaction on 540 respiratory allergic patients. Among the (NH4)2SO4 cut fractions, Fr.II was the most active one, and it was resolved into four subfractions in the Sephacryl S-200 column. Fr.lla was the principal allergenic fraction, showing the presence of two components of 33 and 66 kDa in SDS-PAGE. In IgE immunoblotting, both of the components were found to be allergenic.

CONCLUSIONS

The PS pollen grain is an important aeroallergen from Calcutta, India. The 33- and 66-kDa components are the major allergens present in the relevant pollen extract.

Immunomodulatory effect of laser on whole body exposure

All biomedical laser applications are based on the interaction of laser light with biological system. During the past decade considerable evidence has accumulated demonstrating that non-thermal exposure to laser can elicit cellular changes in the immune system. In the present study, we have analyzed the effect of laser on immune response in rats. A group of rats were exposed to 0.225 mu j/cm2 for 90 min for 3 days in specially designed fiberglass chambers. The whole body exposure of rats of He-Ne laser modulated both the humoral and cellular responses to tetanus toxoid stimulation. Plain red light used as a control for red laser light showed an appreciable degree of response as compared to the control groups, but not to the extent of the response to laser. Non-responders turned responders after exposure to laser. There was no response in unimmunized groups when exposed to laser and red light alone. The early and heightened immune response and proliferation of lymphocytes after exposure to laser is suggestive of a complex interaction at the cellular immune response level.

Induction of stress proteins in response to hypoxia

Hypoxia is a severe stress factor to which man and most other mammalian species are capable of adapting. However, the cellular mechanism which enable cells to adapt are still unknown. Effect of hypoxia was studied on the synthesis of hypoxia induced proteins in rat kidney and in vero cell line (monkey kidney). These were exposed to hypoxia at 240 mmHg pressure for 1 hr. The induction of stress protein was determined by probing with monoclonal antibodies against 65 kDa heat shock protein (hsp65). The induction of a 65 kDa protein was 3.6 fold higher to the total cellular protein, both in cell lines and kidney of rats. In vivo response was predominantly observed in renal cortical region particularly in glomeruli. The induction of stress proteins during hypoxia suggests their importance in the maintenance of cellular integrity under hypoxia.

Antigenic relationship between four airborne palm pollen grains from Calcutta, India

The pollen grains of Areca catechu, Borassus flabellifer, Cocos nucifera and Phoenix sylvestris, all belonging to the family Aracaceae (Palmae), are airborne and found to be potent in causing human respiratory allergy. The present study was undertaken to discover the antigenic relationship, if any, in the four relevant palm pollen grains. The study was conducted by using Borassus and Phoenix antisera raised in rabbit. These antisera were used in rabbit IgG specific ELISA-inhibition and rocket immunoelectro-phoresis (RIE) assays for all four palm pollen extracts. In ELISA-inhibition, a distinct inhibition was obtained with comparable amount of soluble pollen protein. The RIE precipitin bands also revealed the presence of common antigenic components in the palm pollen. After isolation and purification, such common antigens may be useful in allergen immunotherapy in asthmatics.

Allergenic relationship among four common and dominant airborne palm pollen grains from Eastern India

BACKGROUND

Palm pollen grains are predominant aeroallergens in the tropics including India. Evidence of allergenic crossreactivity had been reported from various parts of the world on different families, e.g. Poaceae, Asteraceae, etc. No such information is available about the palm pollen of tropical countries.

OBJECTIVES

The present study was undertaken to find out the allergenic relationship, if any, in four common and important palm pollen in India.

METHODS

A 2-year aerobiological survey was carried out at Madhyamgram situated at the suburban fringe of Calcutta Metropolis using Burkard volumetric sampler to know the seasonal variation of Areca catechu, Borassus flabellifer, Cocos nucifera and Phoenix sylvestris among others. Skin-prick tests (SPT) were performed with the relevant pollen extracts on the respiratory allergic patients. Sera from the subjects were tested directly by ELISA for estimating the allergen specific IgE. ELISA inhibitions and dot blotting were performed with pooled patients sera and four palm pollen extracts to detect the cross-reactivity.

RESULTS

Among 70 patients, Areca catechu exhibited the maximum percentage (48.5%) of positive responses followed by Cocos nucifera (45.7%), Phoenix sylvestris (42.85%) and Borassus flabellifer (38.5%). On an average, 30-50% of the patients showed positive skin reactions and enhanced specific IgE level to more than one palm pollen extract. Further evidence of allergenic crossreactivity among the four palm pollen grains were provided by dot blotting and ELISA inhibition studies. In ELISA inhibition, a distinct inhibition was obtained with comparable amounts of the pollen extracts.

CONCLUSION

The suburban aerobiological survey of Calcutta and SPT results confirmed that the relevant pollen types are significant contributors of aeroallergen load of the study area. ELISA inhibition studies with the pooled patients sera using antihuman IgE probe revealed the presence of shared allergenic components among the four palm pollen grains.

Aerobiologic and immunochemical studies on Borassus flabellifer pollen: evidence for a 90-kD allergen

BACKGROUND

The pollen grains of Arecaceae have been proved to be a very common aeroallergen in India. Except for the pollen grains of Cocos nucifera, detailed information about the allergenicity of other dominant Indian palm pollen is not available.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the aerobiologic and allergenic significance of the pollen of palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer Linn.), one of the important and common palm trees in India, with a view to isolate and purify its major allergenic components.

METHODS

The aerobiologic survey was performed continuously using Burkard volumetric and Rotorod samplers from July, 1994 to June, 1996 in a northern suburb of greater Calcutta. The allergenic potential of the pollen extract and different fractions were studied by skin prick tests (SPT). ELISA and ELISA inhibition experiments were performed with individual and pooled patient sera to detect the specific IgE level. By 2-step ammonium sulphate fractionation and gel filtration study, the allergic fraction Fr.IIA1 was isolated. Its molecular weight was determined by SDS-PAGE and homogeneity was confirmed by rocket and crossed immunoelectrophoresis using rabbit antisera.

RESULTS

Pollen grains of B. flabellifer were found to be present in air from February to May and June contributing more than 7% of the total airborne pollen load of the study area. The pollen elicited maximum concentration at 19 to 20 hours in the evening and at a height of 4 m from ground level. Skin prick testing of 455 respiratory allergic patients with whole pollen extract exhibited 31.64% positive response. After 2-step ammonium sulphate fraction and gel filtration, a fraction (Fr.IIA1) having remarkable allergenicity was isolated. In native and SDS-PAGE, it was found as a single protein component of 90 kD and as homogeneous in RIE and CIE. The soluble protein-carbohydrate analysis indicated the probability of the component to be a glycoprotein.

CONCLUSION

The aerobiologic, clinical, and immunochemical, studies demonstrated that the pollen of B. flabellifer is a dominant aeroallergen to cause respiratory trouble in the area where these trees grow. The isolated 90-kD component is one of the major allergens present in the pollen extract.

Cold stress facilitates calcium mobilization from bone in an ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis

In an ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis, the effects of cold stress on intestinal Ca2+ transference and rate of bone turnover were evaluated. In the ovariectomized rats, a significant reduction in intestinal transference of Ca2+ was associated with decreased activities of intestinal mucosal enzymes, alkaline phosphatase (AP), and calcium ATPase (Ca2+-ATPase) in all the different segments of small intestine in a descending gradient. The development of a high rate of bone turnover and osteoporosis in these animals was confirmed by significant alteration in plasma AP activity and calcium (Ca) level, urinary excretion of Ca and phosphate, and Ca : creatinine ratio. Cold stress in this model, apart from its unique influence in elevating plasma corticosterone and thyroid hormone level, enhanced all the above referred parameters studied in connection with intestinal transference of Ca2+, bone turnover rate, and osteoporosis. The results of this study emphasize that cold stress may have a positive influence on bone loss for an early development of hypogonadal osteoporosis in rats.

Extractability and nutritional value of leaf protein from tropical aquatic plants

In a study conducted on the extraction of protein from the leaves of 30 freshwater aquatic plants, the highest standing crop fresh yield was found in Typha latifolia (2650 g/m2). The Bio-Medical Data Processing (BMDP) K-means clustering program with K = 2 showed that 11 of the 30 plants had a high protein nitrogen extractability as well as a high nitrogen content of the extracted protein. Among these, leaf protein from Allmania nodiflora had the highest content of crude protein (62.7%) and beta-carotene (782.4 micrograms/g). Leaf protein prepared from Hygrophila spinosa, Ottelia alismoides and Polygonum barbatum had low in-vitro digestibility. The levels of alkaloids and polyphenols were lower in the extracted protein compared to that present in the original leaf sample.

High-lipid diet intake is a possible predisposing factor in the development of hypogonadal osteoporosis

The effects of a high-lipid diet on the intestinal transference of Ca2+ and the activities of intestinal enzymes were studied in ovariectomized rats. The plasma Ca2+ level and urinary loss of Ca2+ were also observed. Ovariectomy decreased both alkaline phosphatase (AP) and calcium ATPase (Ca(2+)-ATPase) activity, and also reduced the mucosal transference of Ca2+ in all parts of the small intestine. Although the plasma Ca2+ level did not change significantly, the urinary loss of Ca2+ was enhanced. A high-lipid diet supplement enhanced all these parameters in ovariectomized rats. It is therefore believed that a high-lipid diet may promote osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats as the result of Ca2+ transfer and enhanced urinary Ca2+ loss.