Association between Glutathione-S-Transferase and Gastric Carcinoma: A Case Control Study

Gastric carcinoma is the fourth most common cancer type and the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Every year, around 1 million new cases and 0.7 million deaths are caused due to gastric carcinoma. Gastrointestinal tract is involved in absorption and metabolism of toxic or potentially carcinogenic compounds which may be present in the food we eat. In this context, digestive tract may be considered as a major site of cancer in humans. Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) is an important metabolizing enzyme, present in the epithelial cells of human GIT. As nearly all reactive, ultimate carcinogenic forms of chemicals are electrophiles, GST is substantially important as a mechanism for carcinogen detoxification. The present study was conducted to evaluate the role of GST in gastric carcinoma and analyse the level of serum GST in patients suffering from gastric carcinoma. METHODSThis is a case control study, conducted among 50 cases of gastric carcinoma and 50 age sex matched controls. Patients included in this study were diagnosed with gastric carcinoma, after clinical and histological examination. Circulating levels of GST were assayed in the in the serum of control group and in patients with gastric carcinoma, using standardized method. RESULTSMean GST activity in serum was significantly higher (p < 0001) in gastric carcinoma patients (8.24 ± 1.94) as compared to control (5.47 ± 0.52). After chemotherapy (12.34 ± 1.05) the activity of GST was significantly higher (p < 0001) than before chemotherapy (10.23 ± 2.12). The generation of free radicals is as reflected by increased GST and GST-π activity in carcinoma cases. CONCLUSIONSSerum GSTs measurement in plasma may be a useful tumour marker in stomach cancer and serum GSTs activity might be helpful in predicting the response of chemotherapy in advanced stages of cancer. GST values are helpful in predicting the radiation response. Overexpression of GST in neoplasia may be causal, allowing replicative advantage, or casual, accompanying clonal expansion. The major limitation to its widespread use is the time needed for doing the assay and until this is overcome it will remain primarily a research tool.

Krukenberg Tumour Arising from Gall Bladder- A Rare Presentation

Introduction: Krukenberg tumours are rare, usually bilateral,metastatic ovarian tumours presenting in perimenopausalage women. It usually arises from the GIT (stomach/colon),however it may arise from other rare sites like breast, appendix,biliary tract and gall bladder. Imaging plays a definite role inthe diagnosis and management of such cases.Case report: In this paper, we report two interesting cases ofbilateral ovarian masses where the primary site of malignancywas GB. The first case showed synchronous metastases to theovary while the second one showed metachronous metastasesto the ovary.Conclusion: This report highlights the importance of keepingin mind the rare sites of primary tumour while dealing withbilateral ovarian masses.

Prevalence of Using Aromatic and Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tract Diseases in Al-Taif City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background:In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of herbal drugs to treat Gastrointestinal Tract Diseases(GIT) diseases which widely spread in Saudi Arabia due to their efficacy and minimal side effect. Therefore, it is reasonable and timely to assess the validity of phytotherapeutics products as an adjuvant treatment for GIT problems.Objectives:The current study aims to estimate the frequency of using aromatic and medicinal plants and identify the commonly used plants in the treatment of some GIT diseases in Al-Taif city, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(KSA).Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out among 655 citizens and residents of people who live in Al-Taifcity from different age groups and educational levels. The data will be collected using the self-questionnaire paper and analyzed using SPSS software Results: The study included 655 participants, (48.7%) of them aged from 20-29, (54.6%) were female and (92.8%) were Saudi. Most of the participants (74.6%) used aromatic and medicinal plants. Plants were effective in treating gastrointestinal diseases (97.3%) of the participants by consulting their friends and family or through social media. Diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, nausea, abdominal bloating and irritable bowel syndrome were the most common gastrointestinal diseases among the population of Al-Taif city. Cinnamon, fennel, senna, and turmeric were the most used plants and had positive results in treatment and minor side effects.Conclusion:This study showed that the use of aromatic and medicinal plants in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases is widespread in Al-Taif city and had a positive effect on the treatment ofGIT diseases. The source of information is gained from friends, kindred and social media. Therefore, the media should have a great role in the interest and dissemination of correct and accurate information about medicinal plants

Research on quality management practices of software about medical apparatus and instruments / 中国医学装备

Objective: To explore and practice the method of quality management of software about medical apparatus and instruments so as to ensure the quality of software. Methods:The quality management system of software developed from medical X-ray imaging equipment was constructed through two aspects included target management (quality measurement of qualitative and quantitative were adopted to ensure the quality of software could achieve predictive target) and process management(included the development management of Scrum mode, change management of process and version control based on Git technique. Results: After this method of quality management of software about medical apparatus and instruments was implemented, the software quality and satisfaction of customer were obviously enhanced. Conclusion: Through the control and management of two aspects, the target for ensuring and enhancing quality of software was achieved.

Decreased Glial GABA and Tonic Inhibition in Cerebellum of Mouse Model for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

About 5~12% of school-aged children suffer from the Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, the core mechanism of ADHD remains unclear. G protein-coupled receptor kinase-interacting protein-1 (GIT1) has recently been reported to be associated with ADHD in human and the genetic deletion of GIT1 result in ADHD-like behaviors in mice. Mice lacking GIT1 shows a shift in neuronal excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance. However, the pricise mechanism for E/I imbalance and the role of neuron-glia interaction in GIT1 knockout (KO) mice have not been studied. Especially, a possible contribution of glial GABA and tonic inhibition mediated by astrocytic GABA release in the mouse model for ADHD remains unexplored. Therefore, we investigated the changes in the amount of GABA and degree of tonic inhibition in GIT1 KO mice. We observed a decreased glial GABA intensity in GIT1 KO mice compared to wild type (WT) mice and an attenuation of tonic current from cerebellar granule cells in GIT1 KO mice. Our study identifies the previously unknown mechanism of reduced astrocytic GABA and tonic inhibition in GIT1 lacking mice as a potential cause of hyperactivity disorder.

Costo fisiológico de marcha confortable según el nivel socioeconómico en adultos mayores autovalentes de la comunidad en Talca, Chile / Psychological Cost of Comfortable Gait According to Socioeconomic Status in Self-Reliant Elderly in Talca, Chile / Custo fisiológico de caminhada confortável de acordo com a status socioeconômica em idosos autovalentes comunidade em Talca, Chile

Introducción: la funcionalidad en adultos mayores (AM) se encuentra condicionada por aspectos sociales, económicos y culturales; al respecto, la velocidad de marcha confortable (MC) es considerada su indicador más específico, lo que traduce un costo fisiológico (CF) asociado. En este escenario, el propósito de esta investigación es evaluar el CF de MC, según el nivel socioeconómico (NSE) en AM autovalentes. Materiales y métodos: participaron 75 AM autovalentes, los cuales fueron clasificados según el NSE en medio-bajo y medio-alto. Se solicitó a cada participante que caminara naturalmente durante 3 minutos en una pista de forma elíptica, se registró cada 15 segundos la distancia recorrida y la frecuencia cardiaca de trabajo, esto para el correspondiente cálculo del índice de costo fisiológico (ICF). Además, se estableció como punto crítico fisiológico (PCF) el aumento significativo del ICF desde el estado basal. Resultados: el ICF fue similar según NSE (p = 0,885), siendo mayor en mujeres (≈0,3 lat/m) que en hombres (≈0,2 lat/m; p < 0,001). La distancia recorrida fue alrededor de 200 metros en ambos NSE y géneros, siendo superior en el NSE medio-bajo para el grupo masculino frente al femenino (p = 0,009). En mujeres el PCF aparece 15 segundos antes en el NSE medio-alto, mientras que en hombres el ICF se mantiene estable durante toda la prueba. Conclusión: el NSE no influye en el CF de mc de AM autovalentes, no obstante, se confirma al género como principal factor en su traducción. Se recomienda la inclusión metodológica del PCf, dada su pertinencia para el análisis de la eficiencia de marcha.

Introduction: Elderly functionality is conditioned by social, economic and cultural aspects. The Comfortable Gait Speed (CGS) is considered the most specific indicator of functional capacity, reflecting an associated Physiological Cost (FC). Under this scenario, the purpose of this research is to evaluate the Comfortable Gait Physiologic Cost (CGPC) according to Socioeconomic Status (SES) in self-reliant elderly. Materials and methods: 75 self-reliant elderly were classified into medium-low and medium-high SES levels. Each participant was asked to walk naturally for three minutes on an elliptical track. Traveled distance and heart rate were recorded every 15 seconds for the Physio-logical Cost Index (PCI) calculation. Furthermore, the significant increase from baseline PCI was established as the Critical Physiological Point (CPP). Results: There was no difference in the PCI in relation to the SSE (p = 0.885). However, it was higher in women (≈0,3 lat / m) when compared to men (≈ 0.2 beats/m; p < 0.001). The traveled distance was about 200 meters in both SES and gender, showing higher in the medium-low SES for the male versus the female group (p = 0.009). In women the CPP appears 15 seconds earlier in the medium-high SES, while in men the pci remains stable throughout the test. Conclusions: The SES does not influence the CGPC in self-reliant elderly; however gender is confirmed as the main factor in its translation. Methodological CPP inclusion is recommended given its relevance to the analysis of gait efficiency.

Introdução: A capacidade funcional em idosos é condicionada por aspectos sociais, econômicos e culturais. A Velocidade de Caminhada Confortável (VCC) é considerada o indicador mais específico da capacidade funcional, traduzindo um Custo Fisiológico (CF) associado. Neste cenário, o objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o CF da VCC relacionada ao Status Socioeconômico (SSE) de idosos autovalentes. Materiais e métodos: Fizeram parte deste estudo 75 idosos independentes, os quais foram classificados de acordo com o SSE em média-baixa e média-alta. Cada participante foi motivado a caminhar naturalmente por 3 minutos em uma pista elíptica. Foram registrados a cada 15 segundos distância percorrida e da freqüência cardíaca, para o cálculo do Índice de Custo Fisiológico (ICF). Além disso, estabeleceu-se como um Ponto Crítico Fisiológico (PCF) em ICF aumento significativo a partir da linha de base. Resultados: Não houve diferença no ICF em relação ao SSE (p = 0,885), porém, o mesmo foi maior em mulheres (≈0,3 lat/m) comparado aos homens (≈0,2 lat/m; p < 0,001). A distância percorrida foi de cerca de 200 metros em ambos SSE e gêneros, sendo maior no SSE médio-baixo para o sexo masculino em relação o grupo feminino (p = 0,009). Nas mulheres, o PCF aparece 15 segundos antes no SSE médio-alto, nos homens o ICF permanece estável ao longo do teste. Conclusão: O SSE não influencia o CF da VCC de idosos independentes, no entanto, o gênero influência de forma importante na tradução do CF. É recomendada a inclusão metodológica do PCF devido à sua relevância para a análise da eficiência da marcha.

Evaluation of Real Time PCR, ELISA and Direct Strip Tests for Detection of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Patients with Gastrointestinal Illnesses .

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is very common worldwide. The infection causes chronic gastritis which significantly increases the risk of developing gastric or duodenal ulcer, gastric adenocarcinoma, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. This study was undertaken for the detection of cagA gene in biopsy specimens from patients with gastrointestinal diseases by real time PCR test, in addition to serological detection of anti H. pylori IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA and direct strip tests. A total of 50 antral biopsy and serum specimens were subjected to real time PCR test conducted together with ELISA test for serological diagnosis. Stomach cancer comprised the lowest frequency by admission diagnosis, 1(2%). PCR test was positive in 45 (90%) of study group. Specimens from patients with gastric ulcer, gastritis & dudenitis, stomach cancer, and multiple polyps recorded 100% positive PCR test. Out of total, ELISA-IgM was positive in 16 (32%) of study group, whereas IgG was positive in 23 (46%) of study group. Direct strip test was positive in 18 (36%) of study group. Our study suggested that stomach cancer is unusually rare in Iraq, despite the high prevalence rate of H. pylori infection in this developing country. ELISA-IgM and IgG and direct strip tests showed a low sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection in a group of Iraqi patients. Polymerase chain reaction is highly specific and may be more sensitive than other biopsy-based diagnostic techniques. Although PCR is a time consuming and expensive procedure with need for highly trained staff performing it, our study demonstrated that using PCR methods for detection of H. pylori have a high diagnostic accuracy rate. Further research is needed to study virulence markers and genetic heterogeneity of H. pylori in patients with gastrointestinal illnesses.

Aberrant Thalamocortical Synchrony Associated with Behavioral Manifestations in Git1-/- Mice

Cross-talk between the thalamus and cortex has been implicated in attention but its pathogenic role in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains unknown. Here, I demonstrate that Git1-/- mice, previously proposed as an animal model for ADHD, show abnormal theta oscillation in the thalamus. Multi-electrode recordings revealed that Git1-/- mice have hyper-synchrony of neural activities between the thalamus and cortex. The abnormal thalamic oscillation and thalamocortical synchrony in Git1-/- mice were markedly reduced by amphetamine. In addition, ethosuximide ameliorates abnormal thalamic oscillation and ADHD-like hyperactivity shown in Git1-/- mice. My study suggests critical roles of GIT1 and thalamocortical neural circuitry in ADHD.

A Critical Role of GIT1 in Vertebrate and Invertebrate Brain Development

GIT1, a multifunctional signaling adaptor protein, is implicated in the development of dendritic spines and neuronal synapses. GIT1 forms a signaling complex with PIX, RAC, and PAK proteins that is known to play important roles in brain development. Here we found that Git1-knockout (Git1-/-) mice show a microcephaly-like small brain phenotype, which appears to be caused by reduced neuronal size rather than number. Git1-/- mice also show decreased dendritic spine number without morphological alterations in the hippocampus. Behaviorally, Git1-/- mice show impaired motor coordination and learning and memory. In addition, adult dGit Drosophila mutants show decreased brain size and abnormal morphology of the mushroom body. These results suggest that GIT1 is important for brain development in both rodents and flies.

Nanoparticulate drug-delivery systems: lymphatic uptake and its gastrointestinal applications.

One of the important challenges of modern drug therapy is the optimization of the pharmacological action of a drug along with the reduction of its toxic side effects in vivo. One response is the use of drug carriers that can provide site specific or targeted drug delivery combined with optimal drug release profiles. Nanoparticulate systems (NPS) as a drug delivery system is an emerging field in medical sciences since they are believed to target the delivery of the drug in cells reduce dose and thus reduce side effects and dose related toxicities.The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) uptake of nanoparticulate systems is nowadays well accepted phenomenon. Uptake of Nanoparticulates from the gut can provide an additional drug administration route with its own pharmacokinetic parameters and specific drug-carrying ability. The drug is transported into the GIT by carriers whose physicochemical characteristics must be taken into account, although the physico-chemical and pharmacological characteristics of the drug remain intact. In this article we concentrate particularly on the translocation of NPS via the lymphatic system, and their use.

Montelukast: much more than an antiasthma drug.

Montelukast (MK), a selective leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist, is used mainly to reduce eosinophilic infl ammation in asthmatic patients. The primary objective of this mini-review is to describe novel additional targets for MK besides the lung and to highlight its antioxidant potential. Literature published between 2002 and 2013 was reviewed for signifi cant antioxidant and anti-infl ammatory properties of MK in various experimental models of infl ammation rather than that in the airways of asthmatics. Evidence suggests the potential use of MK in many infl ammatory diseases rather than asthma therapy.

A Large Hepatoblastoma in an Infant.

A prematurely born, 11 month old male child presented with history of lump over right side of upper abdomen for four months. Hepatomegaly with palpable lump in right hypochondriac and epigastric region was noted. ALT, AST & alpha feto protein were elevated with anaemia. On ultrasonography, ill-defined hypo echoic densely calcified mass lesion with internal vascularity noted in right lobe of liver. CT abdomen shows enlarged liver with heterogeneously enhancing mass lesion with necrotic areas and dense calcifications. Histopathologically diagnosis of hepatoblastoma was confirmed.

Acute amebic appendicitis: Report of a rare case.

Acute appendicitis of amebic origin is considered a rare cause of acute appendicitis. We report a case of amebic appendicitis presenting with fever, severe pain in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and rebound tenderness. Lab investigations revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis. The patient underwent appendectomy. Histopathological examination revealed numerous Entameba histolytica trophozoites in the mucosa of the appendix. Acute appendicitis of amebic origin does not appear frequently. Appendicular amebiasis can give the clinical features of acute appendicitis and should be treated accordingly.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A 7-year experience from a tertiary care hospital.

Background: Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), now the most common mesenchymal tumor of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), has been frequently studied, especially with regard to its successful targeted therapy using imatinib mesylate. Aim: Our aim was to describe the clinicopathological features of a large number of cases from a tertiary care hospital in India and report on the follow-up after treatment of some of the cases, comparing them with series described in the west. Design: This is a retrospective study of cases encountered over a 7-year period (1999-2005). Results: Ninety-two cases of GIST were studied, which made up the largest group (52.8%) of mesenchymal tumors of the GIT, with smooth muscle tumors comprising 38.1%, the next large group. GISTs were almost equally prevalent in the stomach and the small intestine, unlike in most studies where stomach is the most common site. GIST may be considered as a cause of bleeding when upper and lower GI endoscopy is normal. Ninety-five percent of the GISTs were positive for CD117 (KIT), as is known. A majority of them (70.4%) were of the high-risk malignant category, unlike most studies where high-risk tumors make up 30-45%. Histologically, the majority had a pure spindle cell morphology and skenoid fibers were rare. Follow-up of 11 cases, the majority with high-risk tumor, treated with adjuvant imatinib for 6 months after surgical resection showed stable disease for periods from 2 to 5 years. However, 11 cases treated with imatinib for longer than 6 months had a poorer outcome due to recurrent, metastatic, or inoperable disease. Conclusion: In our study of a large number of GISTs, which were equally prevalent in the stomach and small intestine, the majority were of the high-risk malignant category and of pure spindle cell morphology. Limited numbers had follow-up after imatinib therapy, which showed in one group treated for 6 months, after resection of high-risk GIST, stable disease for periods ranging from 2 to 5 years. Molecular studies and larger numbers are required for meaningful conclusions to be drawn.

Assessment of the current practice regarding Diarrhea Management by pharmacists/chemist in Moradabad.

Diarrhea is one of the GIT disorders that create discomfort of normal life. Diarrhea is defined by the World Health Organization as having 3 or more loose or liquid stools per day or as having more stools than is normal for that person. It may be due to infection by viruses, Bacteria and parasites etc. Generally in small cities large number of diarrheal patients visit chemist shop and took medicine with or without advice/precaution from over the counter. Present study deal with specific aim focus on evaluating the role of Pharmacist/Chemist in management of diarrhea. Pharmacist helped in out in managing diarrhea to some extent by prescribing drugs either in single or combinations form but they don’t know about the which patients to test, what tests to order, what accurate medical treatments to use, and what steps to take in case of acute as well as in chronic case of diarrhea.

GIT1 promotes osteoblast migration by regulating ERK1/2 activity in focal adhesions / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective To study the function and mechanism of GIT1(G protein coupled receptor kinase interacting protein 1)in osteoblast migration.Methods GIT1 and ERK1/2(Extracellular Signal-regulated ki- nase 1/2)were detected in mice primary osteoblasts.The localizations of GIT1 and ERK1/2 were determined by immunofluorescence stain with or without PDGF(platelet-derived grnwth factor)stimulation.The association of GIT1 anti ERK1/2 was analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation and western blot.After stimulation,the co-localization of GIT1 and pERK1/2 in osteoblasts was detected by double-immunnfluorescence stain.The pERK1/2 localization was detected by immunofluorescence stain after GIT1RNAh adenovirus infection of osteoblasts.The role of this associa- tion was determined by wound healing assay.Results The co-immunoprecipitation results showed that GIT1 in- teracted with ERK1/2 in osteoblasts induced by PDGF and this association occurred in focal adhesions.GIT1 RNAh adenovirus significantly inhibited the pERK1/2 translocation to focal adhesions and osteoblast migration induced by PDGF.Conclusion GIT1 associates with ERK1/2 in osteoblasts,which is required for pERK1/2 translocation to focal adhesions and osteoblast migration.

The Treatment of Moderately Advanced Carcinoma with Chemo-Immunotherapy / 中国肿瘤生物治疗杂志

A comparison of effectiveness of chemo-immunotherapy (CIT) using LAK/CD3AK 1-2 weeks after TACE in 74 patients with no surgical indication and TACE alone in 41 patients with moderately advanced HCC was carried out. The rates of remission between CIT group and TACE alone group were 72.4% and 40.4%(P