PROSTATE CANCER AND DIABETES BIOLOGY OR DETECTION BIAS

Prostate cancer and diabetes are the two highly prevalent health problems in men worldwide and have a high mortality rates but their association is quite complex and contradictory. This review reported several population based studies which tried to establish a possible association and explains the mechanism by which diabetes exhibits its effect on prostate cancer progression. It also explores the literature around the expression of various receptors and genes which enlightens the possible molecular basis of association and the effect of current antidiabetic drugs like metformin and insulin on the growth and advancement of prostate cancer in diabetic men. Masking of early tumor detection by diabetes might be the possible explanation for the reported inverse association with worse prognosis and shorter survival rate in diabetic prostate cancer patients.

Morphological and anatomical aberrations induced by waterlogging in sugarcane

Aim: The present investigation was carried out to study root anatomy of sugarcane cultivars (CoLk 94184 and CoJ64) planted under waterlogged condition through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Methodology: Two sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) cultivars, CoLk 94184 and CoJ 64 were evaluated for changes in root anatomy in response to waterlogging during 2017-2018. For waterlogging treatment, crop was grown in deep plot which was waterlogged upto a depth of 1 m during active grand growth stage (monsoon season) along with untreated control plot. After three months of waterlogging, the plants were uprooted to study the root morphology and anatomy through SEM. Results: Waterlogged plants showed aerial root formation in both the cultivars but number and mass were higher in CoJ64. Aerenchyma was formed in the cortical region of both control and waterlogging roots but the size was relatively increased in waterlogged. Irregular and damaged surface cells with longer root hairs were observed in waterlogging treatment. Waterlogged roots exhibited cell distortion, loss of uniformity in endodermis and pericycle regions and higher number of metaxylem vessels. Interpretation: The study concluded that waterlogging treatment caused structural anomalies and induced anatomical and surface ultra-structural changes in both the cultivars, but the level of deformation was relatively higher in genotype CoJ 64, indicating sensitivity towards waterlogging as compared to cultivar CoLk 94184.

Role of World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Global Knowledge Hub on Smokeless Tobacco

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a recognized public health challenge, having over 350 million users globally, concentrated particularly in South-East Asia. A need for research on curbing major challenges in regulating SLT use has been long felt and subsequently highlighted in several sessions of the Conference of Parties (COP) of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). The sixth session of COP established a knowledge hub on SLT at the Indian Council of Medical Research- National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research India, with a mandate to (i) generate and share expertise, information and knowledge; (ii) promote and facilitate communication among Parties, organizations and stakeholders; and (iii) support the Convention Secretariat in contributing to technical aspects of SLT control. The hub disseminates scientific evidence through an interactive website and publications and supports national and international partners in SLT research. The hub is a contributor to many events/conferences and has conducted several workshops on SLT control, including an inter-country meeting on SLT policy implementation status, which brought together representatives from across the globe, and framed recommendations for policy reform. The hub is dedicated to interaction and collaboration with relevant tobacco control organizations to generate evidence, support and policy orientation in line with its mandates and recommendations under the World Health Organization FCTC.

Dohra- a mixture of potent carcinogens

Background & objectives: Dohra is a areca nut preparation used with or without tobacco in a few of the areas of Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. There is evidence that it causes potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer. This study was undertaken to provide information on dohra by searching through literature and also through a survey in three areas of Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. Methods: The information on dohra was collected through literature search, study tour to different areas of UP, where group discussions with dohra vendors and with community members of different age group were done to obtain information. Results: Dohra was prepared by the users for their personal use or prepared by small-scale industry for sale. It was available mostly in betel shops or any other store/kiosks and was also available in special dohra shops. Dohra was available in both dry and wet form. Its common constituents were areca nut, catechu (Acacia catechu), edible lime, peppermint (Mentha piperita), cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and some flavoring agents. Dohra was consumed as such or with tobacco. Interpretation & conclusions: Different varieties of Dohra were available such as sukha dohra, sukha mulethi dohra and geela dohra. Different processing methods for producing dohra existed. As dohra increases the risk of cancer, it needs to be banned or it should be sold in packets with the details of its constituents and also statutory warning about its adverse health effects.

Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma in 76 years old female: A case report

The current World Health Organization classification of renal epithelial tumours recognises malignant lesions such as, clear cell, papillary, chromophobe and collecting duct renal cell carcinomas (RCCs), and benign entities such as oncocytoma and angiomyolipoma. Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a rare variety of kidney neoplasm that represents approximately 5% of RCC. As the prognosis of chromophobe RCC depends upon early detection and typing of the RCC, meticulous histopathological examination of nephrectomy specimen is must.

Significance of micronucleus in the whole spectrum of uterine cervical lesions

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer among women worldwide, following breast cancer and colon cancer. The micronucleus test is a simple and widely used technique to evaluate genetic damage due to exposure to carcinogenic or mutagenic agents. We undertook this study to compare the MN (micronucleus)score in the whole spectrum of cervical lesions Materials and methods:In this retrospective study, we had compared the MN score in the whole spectrum of cervical lesions which comprised of seven different groups like normal (20), inflammatory (30), ASC-US (20), ASC-H (13), LSIL (20), HSIL (10) and IC (19) over aperiod of 1year (January 2014 to December 2014)which includeda total of 132 cases.Results:In the present study,there was a stepwise gradual increase in MN count from inflammatory to ASC-US to LSIL to HSIL group, followed by a slight increase in IC. The mean MN count was most significant in the LSIL and HSIL group. Thus micronucleated cells as well as the total number of micronuclei show increasing trend towards malignization.Conclusion:Our study showed that MN counting can be a helpful screening tool in conjunction with conventional Pap test for screening of cervical cancer.

Effect of some Indian herbs on dyslipidemia in streptozotocin induced diabetic Rats.

Background: Diabetes is one of the commonest and serious metabolic disorders. Much of the morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes is primarily attributed to sequelae requelac of microvascular and macrovascular changes, in which diabetic dyslipidemia is one of the many modifiable risk factors for coronary artery disease, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Objectives: The main aim of this study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic and antidyslipidemic effect of selected Indian plants in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Material and Methods: Azadirachta indica and Ocimm sanctum leaves, Allium sativum bulbs and Momordica charantia fruits were collected, identified taxonomically and extract was obtained. Male Albino rats was used and divided into 8 groups, each consisting of 6 animals, one group act as a control. Diabetes in rats was induced with streptozotocin. Blood samples were collected and biochemical analysis was done for blood sugar, lipid peroxide and lipid profile. The diabetic group without drug treatment was compared with the control, and diabetic plus drug-treated groups were compared with the diabetic group without drug treatment. Data were analyzed using Student ‘t’ test. Results: Our results revealed that administration of streptozotocin in rats caused increase in the levels of glucose, lipid peroxides, cholesterol and triglycerides with lessening of the HDL-cholesterol. Treatment with aqueous extracts of Momordica charantia, Allium sativum, Azadirachta indica and Ocimum sanctum not only reduced the level of blood glucose but also caused lowering of total cholesterol and triglycerides following an increase in the level of HDL-cholesterol. Conclusion: We concluded that the herbal plants tested possess both hypoglycemic and antidyslipidemic activities and their use as a therapeutic tool in diabetes related complications encourage further investigation in this field.

Drought stress induced changes in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system in genus Avena.

Seven species of genus Avena viz., Avena sativa, Avena strigosa, Avena brevis, Avena vaviloviana, Avena abyssinica, Avena marocana and Avena sterilis were used to study the impact of drought stress on lipid peroxidation and other antioxidant enzymes. Maximum increase in the catalase activity was recorded in A. vaviloviana (129.97%) followed by A. sativa (122.82%) and A. brevis (83.38%) at vegetative stage; however at flowering stage the maximum increase was reported in A. sativa (25.62%) followed by A. sterilis (20.46%) and A. brevis (18.53%). At vegetative stage drought, maximum increase in peroxidase activity was recorded in A. sativa (122.82%) followed by A. brevis (83.38%) and A. sterilis (49.78%). Flowering stage drought, showed maximum increase in A. sativa (27.09%) followed by A. marocana (23.50%) and A. sterilis (20.46%). A. sativa and A. sterilis showed stress tolerance at both the stages by accumulating higher percentage of peroxidase followed by A. brevis at vegetative and A. marocana at flowering stage. Level of lipid peroxidation in terms of Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was increased in the leaves when plants were subjected to moisture stress. The rate of increase in lipid peroxidation occurs irrespective of stage however; maximum increase was recorded in A. strigosa at both the stages. Avena species which showed high level of MDA content, indicates more lipid peroxidation and more membrane permeability and are comparatively more susceptible for water stress than those which produce less Malondialdehyde (MDA) content at higher magnitude of water stress such species have better capability for moisture stress tolerance.

Diversity among Stylosanthes species: Habitat, edaphic and agro-climatic affinities leading to cultivar development.

Since the introduction of Stylosanthes, a range legume, in India in early seventies extensive efforts have been made for its evaluation and adaptation. However, limited germplasm and narrow genetic base were major impediments in its wider adaptations. Of late, introduction of several new improved germplasm including newly identified species, cultivars and bred materials from Australia, Colombia, Brazil and Ethiopia and their evaluation at selected centers under different agro-climatic conditions improved the existing scenario as many lines including S. scabra RRR as well as newly introduced species S. seabrana has shown great promise for diverse agro-climatic zones. Because of concerted efforts which was largely generated from the recently concluded Austrialian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) stylo project and background study during the period of early eighties Stylosanthes has been considered as the most important tropical legume which not only improve the soil fertility but also provide nutritive forage. Two species namely S. hamata and S. scabra largely contribute to the supply of forages for cattle, buffalo, goats and sheep. As a nitrogen fixing legume, the plant helps replenish soil nutrients when used in ley farming, mixed and inter-cropping systems. The scenario has largely changed due to the better performance of newly introduced S. seabrana species which possessed high seedling vigour, high nutritional parameters and better adaptation under rainfed situations in heavy clay and cracking soil types. It provides good foliage and being erect and low sticky in nature showed compatibility for mixed cropping. Results also demonstrated reasonable yield in first year by all four major species which ultimately geared up in second year of growth. This was stable in S. hamata and S. viscosa for another two years whereas other two species namely S. scabra and S. seabrana indicated enhanced yield in consecutive years.

Dietary supplies of iodine & thiocyanate in the aetiology of endemic goitre in Imphal East district of Manipur, north east India.

Background & objectives: The present investigation was undertaken to study the iodine nutritional status of school children of Imphal east district in Manipur where endemic goitre persists during post-salt iodization phase along with the investigation of the factors responsible for the occurrence of goitre endemicity. Methods: A total of 1,286 children (6-12 yr) were clinically examined for goitre from study areas of Imphal east district. A total of 160 urine samples were collected and analyzed to measure urinary iodine and thiocyanate levels. Iodine content was measured in 140 salt samples and 16 drinking water samples. Results: Overall goitre prevalence was about 30 per cent (grade 1-24.7%; grade 2-5.3%) and median urinary iodine level was 17.25 μg/dl. The mean urinary thiocyanate level was 1.073 + 0.39 mg/dl. Iodine/thiocyanate ratio (μg/mg) was in the ranges from 15.65 to 22.34. The mean iodine content in drinking water samples was 2.92 + 1.75 μg/l and 97.8 per cent of edible salts had iodine level above 15 ppm at the consumption point. Interpretation & conclusion: Our findings showed that in spite of no biochemical iodine deficiency, iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) is a serious public health problem in Imphal east district of Manipur. The consumption pattern of certain plant foods containing thiocyanate (or its precursors) was relatively high that interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis resulting in the excretion of more iodine. Thus, the existing dietary supplies of thiocyanate in relation to iodine may be a possible aetiological factor for the persistence of endemic goitre in the study region during post salt iodization period.

Dietary supplies of iodine & thiocyanate in the aetiology of endemic goitre in Imphal East district of Manipur, north east India.

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: The present investigation was undertaken to study the iodine nutritional status of school children of Imphal east district in Manipur where endemic goitre persists during post-salt iodization phase along with the investigation of the factors responsible for the occurrence of goitre endemicity. METHODS: A total of 1,286 children (6-12 yr) were clinically examined for goitre from study areas of Imphal east district. A total of 160 urine samples were collected and analyzed to measure urinary iodine and thiocyanate levels. Iodine content was measured in 140 salt samples and 16 drinking water samples. RESULTS: Overall goitre prevalence was about 30 per cent (grade 1-24.7%; grade 2-5.3%) and median urinary iodine level was 17.25 microg/dl. The mean urinary thiocyanate level was 1.073 +/- 0.39 mg/dl. Iodine/thiocyanate ratio (microg/mg) was in the ranges from 15.65 to 22.34. The mean iodine content in drinking water samples was 2.92 +/- 1.75 microg/l and 97.8 per cent of edible salts had iodine level above 15 ppm at the consumption point. INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that in spite of no biochemical iodine deficiency, iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) is a serious public health problem in Imphal east district of Manipur. The consumption pattern of certain plant foods containing thiocyanate (or its precursors) was relatively high that interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis resulting in the excretion of more iodine. Thus, the existing dietary supplies of thiocyanate in relation to iodine may be a possible aetiological factor for the persistence of endemic goitre in the study region during post salt iodization period.

Goiter prevalence and iodine nutritional status of school children in a sub-Himalayan Tarai region of eastern Uttar Pradesh.

OBJECTIVES: The present work was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of goiter, state of iodine nutrition of the population, distribution of iodine through edible salt, bioavailability of iodine, consumption of common goitrogenic food that generally interfere with iodine nutrition in Naugarh sub-division of Siddharthnagar district in Uttar Pradesh, India. SETTING: Five areas were selected from 5 Community Development (CD) Blocks taking one from each by purposive sampling method. In each area, Primary and Junior high schools were selected by simple random sampling to get representative target population. METHODS: Clinical goiter survey was conducted in 1663 school-aged children from both sexes (6-12 yrs), along with the biochemical analysis of iodine (I) and thiocyanate (SCN) in 200 urine samples, iodine content in 175 edible salt samples and 20 water samples collected from the selected study areas. RESULTS: The studied region is severely affected by Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) as goiter prevalence is 30.2% (grade 1: 27.1% grade 2:3.1%).Median urinary iodine level was 96 microg/L indicating biochemical iodine deficiency. The mean urinary thiocyanate was 0.810+/-0.490 mg/dL and mean of I/SCN ratios in all the studied areas were above the critical level of 7. However, 22% of the individual had I/SCN ratio <or=7 indicating their susceptibility for the development of goiter. Only 12.6% of the salt samples had adequate iodine i.e., >or=15 ppm while iodine content in drinking water varied between 7.5-10.7 microg/L.CONCLUSION: Iodine deficiency is the primary cause, however the consumption of cyanogenic food may have important role for the persistence of IDD in the studied region during post salt iodization phase.

Effect of salicylic acid on morphological and biochemical attributes in cowpea.

Effects of salicylic acid (SA) on seed germination, seedling growth, flowering and biochemical activities were studied out in four cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) genotypes in control environments. The results revealed that both germination and seedling growth were negatively affected by 0.02%. SA application, however did not affect the size of full expanded buds, time of 50% flowering and date of flower initiation. A maximum increase in peroxidase (EC1.11.1.7) activity was observed in UPC 4200 over other genotypes. No significant change in the content of total soluble and intercellular fluid proteins was observed except in UPC 4200 genotype. SA induced accumulation of total soluble sugars more at flowering stage than at seed setting stage. It is evident from the present study that UPC 4200 genotype was more responsive to salicylic acid both in terms of increased peroxidase activity and less negative effect on morphological attributes, thus suggesting its wider use without negative impact on environment as salicylic acid has been reported in plants.

Genetic diversity in some perennial plant species with-in short distances.

Distinct morphophysiological variations observed for over 2 years with-in short distances among four perennial plants indicated genetic diversity among the lines growing at three places. The isozyme and SDS polyacrylamide gel banding patterns as genetic markers were used to investigate four perennial species, namely Dalbergia sissoo Roxb., Delonix regia (Boj.) Refin., Cassia fistula L. and Calotropis procera R. Br. Plant materials collected from three locations (Agra, Gwalior and Lucknow) differing in climo-edaphic variables were examined for 4 enzyme systems, viz., esterase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase (EST, PPO, PRX and SOD). Among the four isozymes SOD and PRX revealed best discriminating power. Protein banding patterns as well as zymogram revealed that Dalbergia sissoo growing at Gwalior was closer to that of Agra; Delonix regia depicted highest similarity between Lucknow and Agra and Calotropis procera of Lucknow location was more closer to Gwalior than Agra. The results confirm genetic diversity in the species as a means of adaptation to differing climo-edaphic variables.

Gluteal abscess: a manifestation of Pott's spine.

A 3-year-old girl presented with features suggestive of compression of cauda equina. In addition, she had soft, fluctuant gluteal swelling, which on aspiration yielded pus, positive for acid-fast bacilli on staining and culture. She showed significant clinicoradiological improvement following aspiration of pus and antitubercular treatment. Rare manifestations of cold abscess in the spine are discussed.

Bone marrow involvement in a primary mediastinal extragonadal non-seminomatous germ cell tumour.

A case of primary mediastinal extragonadal germ cell tumour with involvement of bone marrow, a rare finding, is reported with a review of literature.

Persistent Müllerian Duct Syndrome (PMDS) with testicular seminoma.

Persistent Mullerian Duct Syndrome (PMDS) is characteristically associated with unilateral or bilateral cryptoorchidism. Like other undescended testis, these gonads are at an increased risk of malignant transformation. We report a case of intra abdominal seminoma in cryptorchid testis of a patient with the Persistent Mullerian Duct Syndrome, hitherto uncommonly reported in India.