Aberrant signal transduction in Indian triple-negative breast cancer patients

Aim of Study: The aim of this study is to correlate the prominin-1 or CD133 association with functional pathway markers of cancer stemness in Indian triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patient samples. Materials and Methods: TNBC samples were confirmed for the absence of hormone receptors (estrogen receptor–ER/progesterone receptor) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 or proto-oncogene neu or erbB2 or CD340 by immunohistochemical analysis. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of patients were used to collect the total RNA. Then, one-step reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect the cancer stemness-related transcript levels in the different samples. The RT-PCR products were analyzed semi-quantitatively on agarose gels. The band intensities of respective samples for different transcripts were analyzed by densitometry. Results: TNBC-confirmed samples had shown increased levels of CD133 transcript than control tissues. Further, elevated CD133 transcripts are correlated with higher transcript levels of NOTCH1/FZD7/transforming growth factor-beta receptor Type III R/patched-1 pathway mediators. Conclusions: This work has clearly indicated that there is a correlation between CD133 and functional pathways that control cancer stem cells in TNBC. These observations may indicate the possible association between cancer stemness and TNBC malignancy

Marginal microleakage of glass ionomer cement with two different cavity conditioners on primary anterior teeth – An in vitro study

Background and Objective: Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are the most commonly used restorative material in pediatric dentistry. They have numerous advantages; however, they show some marginal microleakage at the restoration–tooth interface. Various conditioning agents have been tested for alteration or dissolution of smear layer which has been attributed to the occurrence of microleakage; however, very limited studies have been done using primary teeth. Aims: To evaluate and compare the effect of 10% polyacrylic acid and 17% EDTA on marginal microleakage of high-viscosity GIC. Settings and Design: Experimental, in vitro study. Methodology: Class V cavities of standardized dimensions were prepared on 60 primary anterior teeth and were randomly divided into three groups. Except Group I, the cavities of Groups II and III were conditioned with 10% polyacrylic acid and 17% EDTA, respectively. All the 60 teeth were then restored with high-viscosity GIC. The samples were thermocycled and immersed in methylene blue solution for 24 h. The teeth were removed from the stain, rinsed, and sectioned buccolingually and were observed under stereomicroscope at 30× to score the marginal microleakage. Statistical Analysis Used: Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Mann–Whitney post hoc analysis were used to compare the mean marginal leakage scores between the three study groups. Results: Statistical significance difference was found between all the three groups (P < 0.05). The mean marginal microleakage score was maximum for Group I (control group; 3.00), whereas it was the least for Group II (1.30) where 10% polyacrylic was used for conditioning the cavity surface. Conclusion: Among the study groups, none of them was completely devoid of microleakage in all its samples. 10% polyacrylic acid emerged as a better conditioning agent when compared with 17% EDTA in altering or removing the smear layer thereby resulting in better adhesion.

Successful treatment of primary cerebral mucormycosis: Role of microbiologist.

Fungal brain abscess is rare with a rapidly progressive disease with fulminant course and invariably fatal outcome, unless diagnosed early and treated rapidly. We report a 56‑year‑old woman diagnosed to have fungal abscess who recovered completely following amphotericin B treatment. She presented with weakness of the right hand, deviation of mouth to left and aphasia for 2 days. Computed tomography of the brain revealed a left frontal capsuloganglionic hypodense lesion. Stereotactic biopsy was performed, and microbiological confirmation of non‑septate fungal hyphae from pus from aspirate within 2 h helped initiate timely and appropriate treatment leading to cure. Histopathology and culture later confirmed mucormycosis.

The effect of Propolis and Xylitol chewing gums on salivary Streptococcus mutans count: A clinical trial.

Background: Streptococcus mutans is one of the most common cariogenic microorganisms. Use of natural anticariogenic agents, such as Xylitol has been well‑established in the literature. On the other hand, there is a scarcity of studies that have reported the antimicrobial potential of Propolis as an anticariogenic chewing agent; hence, the present study was designed. Aims: To evaluate and compare the anticariogenic action of two commercial chewing gums Propolis and Xylitol on the salivary S. mutans count in a group of children from Bengaluru city. Settings and Design: Clinical setting and experimental design. Materials and Methods: Thirty healthy children aged 8–11 years with decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft)/DMFT index score ≥3 were included in the study. Before the test, unstimulated saliva was collected. Children divided into Group I and II were given Propolis and Xylitol chewing gums respectively; to chew for 15 min. Saliva samples were then collected at 15 min (just after spitting) and after 1 h. The amount of S. mutans in saliva was evaluated using a selective media (MSAB). In addition, compliance of the two chewing gums among the children was tested with a questionnaire. Statistical Analysis Used: Student’s t‑test. Results: Six samples out of 30 were excluded due to no growth. The total number of bacterial colonies was significantly reduced when compared to baseline in both the groups. Propolis gum showed statistically significant reduction in the number of colonies as compared to Xylitol. Xylitol gum was more preferred than Propolis gum by the children. Conclusions: Propolis chewing gum can be used as an anticariogenic agent in children.

Safety and usefulness of Laghu shankha prakshalana in patients with essential hypertension: A self controlled clinical study.

Background: Yoga and Ayurveda texts emphasize the role of cleansing the bowel as an important component of management of hypertension (HTN). Observations during our clinical experience and pilot studies on Laghu shankha prakshalana kriya (LSP), a yogic bowel cleansing technique, appeared to be safe and complimentary. Objective: To test the safety and effectiveness of LSP in patients with essential hypertension. Materials and Methods: This self control study recruited 32 patients with mild to moderate essential HTN admitted for a week long residential integrated yoga therapy program at the integrative health home in Bengaluru. Patients had a daily routine of 6 hours of integrated approach of yoga therapy (IAYT) module for HTN that included physical postures, relaxation sessions, pranayama and meditations. LSP, an additional practice, that involved drinking of luke‑warm water (with or without a herbal combination, triphala) followed by a set of specific yoga postures that activates defecation reflex, was administered on 2nd (LSP without triphala) and 5th day (LSP with triphala). Assessments (sitting blood pressure and pulse rate) were done just before and after both the sessions of LSP. Secondary outcome measures such as body mass index (BMI), symptom scores, medication scores, fatigue, state and trait anxiety, general health and quality of life were assessed on 1st and 6th day of IAYT intervention. Results: There was significant (P < 0.001, paired t test) reduction in blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) and pulse rate immediately after both the sessions (LSP with and without triphala). There were no adverse effects reported during or after LSP. There was no significant difference between the two techniques (P < 0.505, independent samples t test), although the percentage change appeared to be higher after triphala LSP session. The number of visits to clear the bowel during the procedure was significantly (P < 0.001, independent samples t test) higher after LSP with triphala than LSP without triphalā. After weeklong IAYT, there were significant reductions in blood pressure (P < 0.001), BMI (P < 0.004), medication score (P < 0.001), symptoms score (P < 0.001), fatigue (P < 0.001), state and trait anxiety (STAI, P < 0.001), scores of general ill health (GHQ, P < 0.001), and increase in comfort level (P < 0.001) and quality of sleep (P < 0.001). Conclusion: LSP (a part of IAYT) is a safe and useful procedure for patients with essential hypertension. LSP with triphala is more useful.

Evaluation of Immunomodulatory activity of the flavanoid from Kigelia africana.

Modulation of the immune responses to alleviate the diseases has been of interest for many years. Thus a real need exists to protect our immune systems and lead healthier lives. Hence the present study is aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of Flavanoid of Kigelia africana. The effect of flavanoid of Kigelia africana on the immune system of rats and mice was evaluated by using different experimental models such asmice lethality test, Serum immunoglobulin level, Haemagglutination reaction, hypersensitivity reaction, and delayed type hypersensitivity reaction test. Flavanoid of Kigelia africana was administered orally at low dose and high dose of 100mg/kg/day, poand 200 mg/kg/day, po respectively and Levamisole (2.5 mg/kg/day, po) was used as standard drug. Flavanoid of Kigelia africanain both doses increased the levels of serum immunoglobulin and prevented the mortality induced by bovine Pasteurella multocida in mice. Exhibits a dose related increase in the early hypersensitivity reaction and Delayed type hypersensitivity reaction to the SRBC antigen. It also resulted in a significant increase in the antibody titer value, to SRBC, in experimental animals. Hence, it was concluded that flavanoid of Kigelia africana increases both humoral immunity and cell mediated immunity.

Antiangiogenic and anticancer activity of saponins of Momordica cymbalaria.

Background: The aim of the current study was to evaluate invitro anticancer activity of saponins of MC on EAC cells by using cytotoxicity (MTT) assay. To evaluate in vivo antiangiogenic potential of saponins of MC on rat air sac angiogenesis, EAC induced peritoneal angiogenesis, CAM angiogenesis. Methods: MTT assay was carried out at different concentrations of saponins of MC in 12 microliter plates containing media with EAC cells. In rat air sac angiogenesis, carrageenin was injected (s.c.) into the air sac. Dexamethasone, indomethacin, saponins of MC was administered to identify the angiogenic activity. In EAC induced angiogenesis in peritoneum, EAC cells were administered through i.p in mice peritoneum. 5-fluoro uracil, (i.p) and saponins of MC (orally) was given to identify angiogenic activity. In CAM angiogenesis, erythropoietin was given to eggs on 8th day of incubation. saponins were given on the 12th day for two days to observe the antiangiogenic activity. Results: The observed cytotoxic effects of saponins of MC on EAC cells find statistically significant. There is significant reduction in vascular branching in rat air sac model; EAC induced peritoneal angiogenesis, CAM model by the saponins of MC. Conclusions: Due to lack of certain records, it is envisaged that the change of medicine both discontinuation as well as addition was done because of blood glucose control, cost factor [in case of pioglitazone] as well as patient’s compliance.

Mongrelised genetics of H1N1 virus: A bird's eyeview.

H1N1 influenza, also known as "novel H1N1 virus" has led to a "global outcry." This virus is more virulent when compared with other seasonal flu viruses. Virulence may change as the adaptive mutation gene increases within the virus. A study at the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention published in May 2009 found that children had no preexisting immunity to the new strain as they showed no cross-reactive antibody reaction when compared with adults aged 18-64 years, who showed a cross-reactive antibody reaction of 6-9% and older adults with 33% immunity. This review article depicts H1N1 virus, its virulence with genetic evolution potential and preventive protocol for the dental professionals. This would allow us to comprehend the changes in the disease process and contribute in its prevention as "prevention is better than cure."

A variant epidemic methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus-15 cavernous sinus thrombosis and meningitis: A rare occurrence with unusual presentation.

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is an uncommon clinical syndrome. Although Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus) is the most common bacterial pathogen causing CST, it is infrequent as a cause of meningitis. We report the first case of CST and meningitis from Bengaluru, Karnataka, caused by community-acquired epidemic methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus-15 (EMRSA-15), in a previously healthy individual without known risk factors; the patient recovered following treatment with vancomycin. The isolate was genotyped as belonging to staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec type IV and sequence type 22 and carried the panton-valentine leucocidin gene. It is the first Indian EMRSA-15 disease isolate from a case of meningitis. EMRSA-15 has been a major problem in hospitals in UK and it is a cause for great concern in Indian hospitals too.

Integrated approach to yoga therapy and autism spectrum disorders.

A specially designed Integrated Approach to Yoga Therapy module was applied to Autism Spectrum Disorders over a period of two academic years. Despite low numbers (six in each arm), consistency and magnitude of effects make the findings significant. Parental participation, allowing firm guidance to be given to each child, resulted in significant improvements in imitation and other skills, and in behavior at home and family relationships. We hypothesize that guided imitation of therapist body positions stimulated mirror neuron activation, resulting in improved sense of self.

Immediate effects of two relaxation techniques on healthy volunteers.

This controlled study compared immediate effects of two relaxation techniques on state anxiety and sustained attention in healthy subjects. 86 volunteers (56 men and 30 women) were divided into two groups: the first 43 volunteers (age range 18 to 64) practiced 20 minutes of yoga-based Deep Relaxation Technique (DRT), while the second group of 43 volunteers (same age range), practiced 20 minutes Supine Rest (SR). State anxiety was assessed using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI A-State), and sustained attention was assessed using the Six Letter Cancellation (SLC) and Digit Letter Substitution (DLS) tests. All tests were administered immediately before, and immediately after, practice. A significant reduction in State Anxiety score (P<0.001) was observed for the group practicing DRT, but not for the group practicing SR. For the sustained attention tests, however, there were significant increases in scores by both DRT and SR groups (P<0.001). The results suggest that both interventions improve attention, but that only DRT reduces State Anxiety.

Effect of selenium on the physiochemical status of rat testes.

Selenium (Se) is required for normal testicular development and spermatogenesis in rats. However, there are indications that excess of selenium affects the testicular morphology, resulting in the interruption of spermatogenesis. The biochemical mechanisms underlying these morphological alterations have not so far been investigated. Therefore, in order to have a better understanding of the action of selenium in disturbing the fertility, this study was undertaken, taking into account certain testicular bio-chemical parameters related to reproduction in selenium-intoxicated rats. Effects of sub-lethal doses (100, 250, and 500 micrograms of Se/100g body weight, once in five days, for a month) of selenium on testicular biochemical parameters were studied. Significant dose-dependent alterations in testicular levels of cholesterol, ascorbic acid, glycogen, protein, sialic acid, phosphatases and transaminases were observed in selenium-treated rats, as compared to controls. These findings indicate that sub-lethal doses of selenium may adversely affect gonadal biochemical homeostasis.

Insulin sensitivity and cardiac autonomic function in young male practitioners of yoga.

BACKGROUND: While yoga is thought to reduce the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, there are no studies on insulin sensitivity in long term practitioners of yoga. We assessed insulin sensitivity and cardiac autonomic function in long term practitioners of yoga. METHODS: Fifteen healthy, young, male practitioners of yoga were compared with 15 young, healthy males who did not practice yoga matched for body-mass index. Fasting insulin sensitivity was measured in the fasting state by the hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in their anthropometry or body composition. However, the fasting plasma insulin was significantly lower in the yoga group. The yoga group was also more insulin sensitive (yoga 7.82 [2.29] v. control 4.86 [11.97] (mg/[kg.min])/(microU/ml), p < 0.001). While the body weight and waist circumference were negatively correlated with glucose disposal rate in the controls, there were no similar correlations in the yoga group. The yoga group had significantly higher low-frequency power and lower normalized high-frequency power. CONCLUSION: Long term yoga practice (for 1 year or more) is associated with increased insulin sensitivity and attenuates the negative relationship between body weight or waist circumference and insulin sensitivity.

Nocardial brain abscess in an immunocompetent host.

Nocardial infection of the central nervous system is rare and usually manifests as brain abscess. Here we describe an elderly gentleman who presented with signs and symptoms of an intracranial mass lesion localising to the frontal lobe. Clinical examination and CT scan suggested neoplasia as the probable diagnosis. A biloculated abscess was seen at surgery. Aspiration of the contents and examination of pus revealed Nocardia asteroides . Treatment included total excision and prolonged antibiotic therapy which resulted in an excellent outcome.

Investigation of an outbreak of device-related postoperative ventriculitis: a lesson learnt.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P aeruginosa) is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens. We report our experience of a device-related outbreak of postoperative ventriculitis caused by P aeruginosa thus initiating investigation of the unusual occurrence. Five neurosurgical patients were affected, postoperatively. The investigations entailed extensive screening of the common sources of contamination for colonization of P aeruginosa. Sterilized instruments used for surgery, including the ultrasonic aspirator (USA) sets and other hollow devices, were randomly sampled and cultured. Conventional culture methods yielded P aeruginosa, with almost similar antibiotic sensitivity pattern in all the patients and the ultrasonic aspirator, clinching the source of contamination. Routine surveillance, identification of unusual patterns, molecular epidemiological typing would be helpful in quick control of outbreaks of postoperative infections.