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The article discusses the economic impacts of infectious diseases on the livestock in India. India has a livestock population of over 500 million and 22 million people are employed by the livestock sector. The authors explain that livestock diseases result in economic loss with mortality, less efficient use of resources and need for faster rates of stock replacement. Aside from reducing the productive capacity of the animals products industry, a disease outbreak may also lessen demand for meat.

The article focuses on the perceptions of dairy owners on the information-enabled animal health information system (AHIS). AHIS field testing reveals greater perception of the utility and the effectiveness of information transmission. It is noted that AHIS can be used for rapid dissemination of expert advice in various locations through the use of village agencies' infrastructure.

An outbreak of Degnala disease was reported amongst buffaloes from Patna and Jehanabad districts of Bihar, India during the period December'2011 to March'2012.Among affected buffaloes 55.19% showed locomotors disorders with lameness (33.87%), limb swelling (18.57%) and hoof sloughing (3.27%). Therapeutic management was achieved with diethylamine acetarsol derivative, Enrofloxacin,Tolfenamic acid and mineral supplementation. The Albumin/Globulin ratio increased significantly after one month of treatment. The Triiodothyronine(T³) and thyroxine (T4) levels of Degnala affected buffaloes were below normal. The mean Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Iron and Selenium level in diseased and cured buffaloes did not vary significantly. Significant low level of Magnesium, Copper and Cobalt were also observed in affected buffaloes which resumed to normal after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article tests an indigenous herbal preparation consisting of Andropogan muricatus, Annona squamosa, Argemone mexicana, Butea frondosa, Melia azadirachta, and Cedrus deodara for its therapeutic efficacy in dermatomycotic infection in goats. The researchers conclude that the preparation has anti-fungal properties and ability to resist secondary infections. They saw no variations in the serum sodium and potassium levels between the control and the infected groups at various periods.

This study was conducted to evaluate the antifertility potential of Thevetia peruviana (Apocynaceae) in male albino rats with their phytochemical evaluations. Phytochemical examination showed that plant is rich in active constituents, i.e. αα-amyrin acetate, lupeol acetate, αα-amyrin, ββ-amyrin, lupeol and thevetigenin. T. peruviana stem bark methanol extract (TPMtE) administered orally to male rats at the dose level of 100 mg/rat/day did not cause any significant reduction in body weight, while the weight of reproductive organs reduced significantly. A significant fall in the total protein and sialic acid content of the testes, epididymides, seminal vesicle and ventral prostate, as well as in the glycogen content of testes was also observed; however, cholesterol was increased significantly. TPMtE also caused a decline in spermatogenic elements, i.e. preleptotene and pachytene spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, round spermatids and mature Leydig cells. At this dose level Leydig cell nuclear diameter, seminiferous tubular diameter and Sertoli area were significantly reduced (p < 0.001). The reduction in sperm density and motility resulted in 18% residual fertility. In conclusion, T. peruviana inhibited spermatogenesis in rats, indicating the possibility of developing a herbal male contraceptive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a review on the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in addressing the information needs of various farming systems such as breed improvement through proper breeding program, institutional credit support and improvement in time sensitive livestock services in India. It notes that ICT plays a greater role in livestock disease control, dairy herd management and livestock production. It indicates that India has rich veterinary health traditions and although effective at certain conditions lack technical validation.

The authors discuss the findings of their study on the effects of environmental conditions on the production traits of Jakhrana goats in India. The year of birth was found to have an effect on the body weight of kids but not on birth weight. Kids born in March and April had higher body weights at all ages compared to those born in October and November. They attribute the differences in lactation length and milk yields among does to farm management, buck selection and environmental factors such as rainfall, temperature and humidity.

A series of 4`-(5-Amino-6-chloro-2-substituted-benzoimidazol-1-ylmethyl)]-biphenyl-2- carboxylic acid side chain in the 2 position have been synthesized from substituted compounds [1-14] compounds aromatic aldhyde,ayl,alkyl groups and tested for antihypertensive activity in induced hypertensive rats. All the compounds have been found to be less active than Losartan, Telmisartan their structures were assigned with elemental analysis, melting point and spectral analysis like IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and EI MS [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of polyherbal formulation of leaves of Azadiracta indica and rhizome of Curcuma longa. The mature green leaves of Azadiracta indica and Curcuma longa were collected and authenticated. Extractions of dried leaves and rhizome were carried out with ethanol in soxhlet apparatus. The polyherbal formulation showed the significant anti-inflammatory activity comparable to the standard drug Indomethacin against carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. The polyherbal formulation reduced the inflammation induced by carrageenan by 43.3% and 57.73% on oral administration at 100 mg/ kg and 200 mg/kg respectively as compared to the control treated group an analgesic activity comparable to the standard drug tramadol HCl. Antidepressant activity and Anxiolytics comparable to the standard drug Fluoxetine HCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of polyherbal formulation of leaves of Annona Squamosa and rhizome of Curcuma longa. The mature green leaves of Annona Squamosa and Curcuma longa were collected and authenticated. Extractions of dried leaves and rhizome were carried out with ethanol in soxhlet apparatus. The polyherbal formulation showed the significant anti-inflammatory activity comparable to the standard drug Indomethacin against carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. The polyherbal formulation reduced the inflammation induced by carrageenan by 49.3% and 61.73% on oral administration at 100 mg/ kg and 200 mg/kg respectively as compared to the control treated group an analgesic activity comparable to the standard drug tramadol HCl. Antidepressant activity comparable to the standard drug Fluoxetine HCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of polyherbal formulation of leaves of Annona squamosa, Azadiracta indica and rhizome of Curcuma longa. The mature green leaves of Annona squamosa, Azadiracta indica and rhizome of Curcuma longa were collected and authenticated. Extractions of dried leaves and rhizome were carried out with ethanol in soxhlet apparatus. The polyherbal formulation showed the significant anti-inflammatory activity comparable to the standard drug Indomethacin against carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. The polyherbal formulation reduced the inflammation induced by carrageenan by 49.3% and 61.73% on oral administration at 100 mg/ kg and 200 mg/kg respectively as compared to the control treated group an analgesic activity comparable to the standard drug tramadol HCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of polyherbal formulation of leaves of Annona squamosa, Azadiracta indica. The mature green leaves of Annona squamosa, Azadiracta indica were collected and authenticated. Extractions of dried leaves and rhizome were carried out with ethanol in soxhlet apparatus. The polyherbal formulation showed the significant anti-inflammatory activity comparable to the standard drug Indomethacin against carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. The polyherbal formulation reduced the inflammation induced by carrageenan by 53.0% and 47.0% on oral administration at 100 mg/ kg and 200 mg/kg respectively as compared to the control treated group an analgesic activity comparable to the standard drug tramadol HCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therapeutic efficacy of an "Indigenous vaccine" has been evaluated with respect to a commercial vaccine (Gudair, Spain), for the control of clinical Johne's disease (JD) in naturally infected goatherds. Seventy-one goats (JD positive) were randomly divided into 3 groups ("Bison", "Gudair" and "Sham-immunized"). After vaccination, goats were monitored for physical condition, morbidity, mortality, body weights, shedding of M. paratuberculosis (MAP) in feces, internal condition and lesions, as well as humoral and cell-mediated immune responses for 210 days. Study showed marked overall improvement in physical condition of vaccinated goats and average body weight gain was significantly higher (P < .05) in "Bison" group as compared to "Sham-immunized" goats. Mortality due to JD was significantly (P < .05) lower in vaccinated groups than in "sham-immunized". Morbidity rates (due to diarrhea and weakness) were lower in "Bison" group as compared to other groups. Died goats from vaccinated groups showed regression of gross JD lesions and regeneration of fat layer around visceral organs while "Sham-immunized" goats exhibited frank lesions. Vaccinated goats had higher protective CMI response and also higher antibody titer for the trial period as compared to "Sham immunized". Both vaccines also reduced shedding of MAP in feces significantly (P < .05). Though the two vaccines effectively restricted the severity of clinical symptoms of JD, however "Indigenous vaccine" was superior in many respects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of 33 Compounds antihypertensive drugs 2-butylbenzimidazoles derivatives were subjected to quantitative structure activity relationship analysis with an attempt to derive a correlation between the biological activity as dependent variable and various descriptors as independent variables by using V-Life MDS 3.5. Negative logarithmic value of (-PMIC) was taken as dependent variable, chi3Cluster, T_2_Cl_6, XlogP, T_N_N_slogp, T_O_Cl_5 was taken as independent varable.Docking studies of all compounds using Biopredicta V-Life MDS 3.5,all the molecules docked and scores were calculated and most active compound has high score and successfully docked into the active site This study can help in rational drug design and synthesis of new angiotensin II antagonists as antihypertensive with predetermined affinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which evaluated the mineral status of soil, fodder and blood serum of animals in Uttar Pradesh, India to develop supplement for overcoming the deficiency. The samples revealed that calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, copper and zinc were deficient and below critical levels in most animals. Hematological parameters including hemoglobin, serum enzymes, thyroxine hormone, vitamins A and E are lower in mineral deficient animals. It is suggested that these animals must be supplemented with specific minerals for optimum production.

In the present study quantitative structure activity relationship studies were performed on a series of 1, 3, 4-thidiazole-2yl) azetidine 2-one as antimicrobial activity using Chem Office ultra 7.01. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to derive quantitative structure activity relationship models which were further evaluated internally as well as externally for the prediction of activity. The best quantitative structure activity relationship model was selected having a correlation coefficient (r²) of 0.8040 and cross-validated correlation coefficient (Q²) of 0.6189. This study indicates that thermodynamic descriptors (total energy, molar refractivity, ovality, logp and non Vander walls energy) and steric descriptors (principle moment of inertia non Vander walls energy) and play important role for the antimicrobial activity. The information generated from the present study may be useful in the design of more potent substituted compounds 1, 3, 4-thidiazole-2yl azetidine 2-one as antimicrobial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some new 1-(nicotinylamino)-2 substituted azetidin 4-ones have been synthesized by condensation of nicotinic acid hydrazide with various aromatic or heterocyclic aldehydes to yield the Schiff bases. Cyclocondensation of schiffs bases with chloroacetyl chloride in the presence of triethylamine results in azetidinone derivatives. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by analytical IR NMR and mass spectral data. All the synthesized compounds have exhibited significant activity against the bacteria and fungi tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides information on a study that assessed the mineral, hormone and vitamin status in cattle of some districts of Central Uttar Pradesh in India. It observes deficiency of the macro minerals mainly calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and phosphorus (P). The study also notices significant decrease in haemoglobin (Hb), and total erythrocyte count, while total leukocyte count was slightly higher in deficient cattle. The research suggests that the haemato-biochemical, vitamin and hormonal profiles of the cattle of the region are severely affected by mineral deficiency.

Some new N-(5-methyl-4-oxo-thiazolidin-3-yl)-nicotinamide have been synthesized by condensation of nicotinic acid hydrazide with various aromtatic or heterocyclic aldehydes to yield the Schiff bases. Cyclocondensation of schiffs bases with 2-mercaptopropionic acid afforded 4-thiazolidinone derivatives. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by analytical IR, NMR and mass spectral data. All the synthesized compounds of the series elicit remarkable activity in comparison to standard drug (ampicillin). A number of descriptors were tested to adjudge a quantitative correlation between activity and structural features. However, significant correlation has emerged between activity and physicochemical parameters viz. hydrophobic parameter (log P). Moreover, results are interpreted on the basis of multiple regression analysis and cross-validation methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article details a study which investigated the mineral status in soil, fodder and serum from four districts of Tripura state, India. Soil samples were collected from West, South, North and Dhalai Tripura. Overall average prevalence of phosphorus, zinc, copper and cobalt deficiency were discovered at all districts. Calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P) zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) deficiency were also found in fodder. Ca, Mg, iron (Fe) and selenium (Se) were found adequate in soil and serum. The study also found that soil, fodder and cattle of Tripura State were highly deficient in zinc, copper and cobalt.

The article presents a study which focused on the genetic analysis of morphometric traits of Sirohi goats. These goats have been studied with respect to their production and reproduction traits. It found that the positive and high genetic and phenotypic correlations between 3 and 6 months morphometric traits and with other traits suggested that the selection of kids can be done on the basis of 3 or 6 months morphometric traits in order to obtain higher value of morphometric traits at later ages. Management condition must also be improved to gain profit from goat rearing.

Paragangliomas are tumors arising from extra-adrenal paraganglia and account for 0.3% of all neoplasms. The carotid body and temporal bone are the most frequent sites of paraganglioma, though it has been reported to occur in almost every part of the body. Spinal paragangliomas are uncommon and mainly take the form of intradural compression of the cauda equina or thoracic cord. Extradural paragangliomas are still rare; only few cases involving the dorsolumbar spine have been reported. We are reporting an interesting case of a dumbbell-shaped primary extradural paraganglioma of the cervical spine in an 8-year-old boy that presented with progressively increasing spastic quadriparesis. Copyright © 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nemaline rod myopathy (NM) is a rare form of congenital myopathy characterized by slowly progressive or nonprogressive muscle weakness and pathognomonic rod-like structures within the muscle fibers. To the best of our knowledge, this is first documentation of the clinicopathological features of this rare entity from India. All cases of NM diagnosed in our laboratory were retrieved. Clinical and pathological features were reviewed. During a period of 1.5 years (Jan 2004 to June 2005), we received 750 muscle biopsies for various reasons. Of which, 15 were diagnosed as congenital myopathies and four as nemaline rod myopathies. Thus, NM comprises 0.53% of all muscle diseases and 22.6% of all congenital myopathies. All of them presented in childhood (first five years of life) with generalized hypotonia, feeding problems, repeated respiratory infections and muscle weakness. Both males and females were equally affected. The CPK levels were normal and EMG was myopathic. Microscopic examination revealed minimal changes but characteristic red-colored material was seen on modified Gomori trichrome staining which was immunopositive to alpha actinin. Ultrastructural examination confirmed this material to be nemaline rods. NM, although a rare form of congenital myopathies, should be suspected in children who present with generalized hypotonia, repeated chest infections and slowly progressive muscle weakness. This report highlights the importance of histochemistry and ultrastructural examination in the diagnosis of this entity, in the absence of the availability of methodology for genetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multi-minicore disease is a rare form of myopathy characterized by slowly progressive or nonprogressive muscle weakness and characteristic multiple cores within the muscle fibers. To the best of our knowledge, this is first documentation of the clinicopathological features of this rare entity from India.Materials and Methods: A ll cases of multi-minicore disease diagnosed in our laboratory were retrieved. Clinical and pathological features were reviewed.Result: During a period of two years (January 2004 to December 2005), we received 985 muscle biopsies for various reasons. Of which, 15 were diagnosed as myopathies and four of which were of multi-minicore disease. Thus, multi-minicore disease comprises 0.40% of all muscle diseases and 26.6% of all myopathies. All were male and presented in early childhood (first decade of life) with generalized hypotonia and muscle weakness. All of them had dysmorphic facies and three had high arched palate. CPK levels were normal and EMG was myopathic except in one patient. Microscopic examination revealed minimal changes with Type I fibers' predominance but characteristic multiple cores in the myofibers. Ultrastructural examination showed both structured and unstructured cores.Conclusions: Multi-minicore disease, although a rare form of myopathies, should be suspected in children who present with generalized hypotonia and slowly progressive muscle weakness along with dysmorphic facies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spectrum of glioneuronal lesions underlying intractable epilepsies includes malformative pathologies like focal cortical dysplasia (FCD); and neoplastic lesions like gangliogliomas (GG) and dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumours (DNT). These may occur either singly or as dual lesions, having simultaneous presence of both elements. Currently, the relationship between the malformative and neoplastic glioneuronal lesions is poorly understood. Recently, CD34, a stem cell marker transiently expressed during early neurulation, has been identified in these tumours. This study was undertaken to (i) evaluate the role of CD34 as a diagnostic marker for glioneuronal lesions of epilepsy, namely, GG, DNT and FCD, and (ii) attempt to define the relationship among these lesions, using CD34 as a marker. Tissues resected from 47 patients with intractable epilepsy due to glioneuronal lesions (GG, FCD, DNT) were studied. These were evaluated for CD34 expression, using immunohistochemistry. Dysplastic or atypically differentiated neural precursors which could not be identified on routine haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were highlighted by CD34 immunostaining. The pattern of immunostaining was diffuse in GGs, unlike FCDs, wherein cells were present singly or in small clusters. However, cases of DNT and control tissue were largely CD34-immunonegative. Based on these findings, we propose a possible common origin of GG and FCD, from a bipotent precursor that undergoes abnormal glioneuronal development, while DNTs possibly have a different origin. The CD34-immunoreactive cells represent dysplastic or undifferentiated neural precursors, which may signify a valuable marker for the diagnostic evaluation of neoplastic and/or malformative pathologies in patients with intractable epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rare case of hypothalamic glioma in a 7-year-old boy presenting with seizures and diabetes insipidus is reported. Near total decompression of the hypothalamic glioma was done successfully using subfrontal approach. The patient had a stormy postoperative course due to status epilepticus but went on to make a complete recovery. Postoperative radiotherapy/chemotherapy was not given in view of tumor histology (low grade glioma), patient’s age and tumor location. Patient remains symptom and seizure free on antiepileptics at 3-year follow-up. The case is presented in the light of its rarity and the literature is reviewed. Copyright © 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcoptic mange in sheep, causes heavy losses in quantity and quality of wool and meat production.The present investigation aimed at evaluating the oxidative stress-antioxidant defense and erythrocytic membrane responses during sarcoptic mange in sheep.A bio-organic therapy (BT) was evaluated for its efficacy. Tocopherol was assessed for its antioxidant adjunctive potential. Materials and Methods: Nineteen sheep with sarcoptic mange (aged 9-12 months, with lesions ascribed to Sarcoptes scabiei var. ovis) were divided into 2 groups of 8 (group1) and 11(group2) respectively.Group1 was sprayed with the BT (Topicure: Natural Remedies Private Limited, Bangalore, India; containing extracts and distillates of Eucalyptus globulus, Cedrus deodara and Pinus longifolia).In Group2, BT plus tocopherol (E-care Se: Health Line Private Limited, Bangalore, India; containing tocopherol-50mg, selenium-1.5mg; two intramuscular injections at 7 days gap) were advocated.The animals were free from other pathogenic microorganisms.Ecto-parasites were identified by standard procedures.(a)Response to treatment: was noted each day through grade codes (0 to 4).(b)Mite count:Skin scrapings were examined for mites on 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,14,21 and 28 days post treatment (PT).(c)Oxidative stress- antioxidant defense, erythrocyte membrane responses: In erythrocytes (days '0' and 28 PT), lipid peroxidation (LP), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-s-transferase, adenosine triphosphatases (total ATPase, Na+ K+-'ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase) & protein were estimated.(d)Haematology:total erythrocyte count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (H) were estimated in blood (days 0 and 28). (e) Statistical analysis was as per standard procedures. Results: (a) Clinical observations: BT was effective and with tocopherol it was effective just within 2 days of start of therapy with an effectiveness of 77.5%. (b) Mite count: BT was good and with tocopherol it was effective against mites within 2 days of start. (c) Oxidative stress- antioxidant defense; erythrocyte membrane and haematological responses: effect of (BT) and BT plus tocopherol on biochemical parameters of sheep erythrocytes and hematology (Mean±SD) indicated significant (*P<0.05; **P<0.01; ***P<0.001) increase in LP**, total ATPase***, Mg2+-ATPase***, significant decrease in Na+ K+-ATPase**, catalase**, GST**, PCV**, TEC***, Hb*** and a non significant decrease in GSH in the diseased. BT was effective as it could bring these values towards healthy control group values of normalcy Tocopherol as adjunct therapy proved beneficial. No reappearance was observed with respect to all the studied parameters during the period of observation.Conclusions: Eucalyptus globulus & Cedrus deodara are antimange. Pinus longifolia has antiseptic action. Anemia may be a result of mites consuming erythrocytes escaping from capillaries and lowered erythropoietin production due to liver involvement. Haemoglobin may be reduced due to low erythrocyte counts and haematocrit and may be due to toxaemia caused by mites. Lipid peroxidation indicates oxidative damage to tissues. In diseased sheep erythrocytes are under oxidative stress which may be due to decreased catalase activity. Increase in ATPases in diseased sheep may be due to increased need of energy under oxidative stress. Glutathione-s-transferase (GST) protects cells against various electrophilic, hydrophobic compounds by catalyzing the formation of glutathione conjugates. Tocopherol with BT was better with respect to (GST).… [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antifertility activity of the active principle, i.e. lupeol acetate, isolated from benzene extract of Alstonia scholaris in male albino rats. The treatment with lupeol acetateat the dose level of 10 mg/rat/day did not cause any significant change in the body weights, but significant reduction in the weight of reproductive organs, i.e. testes, epididymides, seminal vesicle and ventral prostate, was observed. Testicular sperm count, epididymal sperm count and motility were found significantly declined when compared with controls, which resulted in reduction of male fertility by 100%. Arrest of spermatogenesis was noted at various stages with production of primary spermatocytes (preleptotene and pachytene), secondary spermatocytes and step-19 spermatids were decreased by 52.36, 54.91, 55.67 and 69.65%, respectively. The seminiferous tubules appeared reduced in size by 24.62%. Cross-sectional surface area of Sertoli cells as well as their counts were found to be significantly depleted. Leydig cell nuclear area and number of mature Leydig cells were decreased by 27.65 and 35.47%. Biochemical parameters of tissues i.e. protein, sialic acid, glycogen and cholesterol content of testes and seminal vesicular fructose also showed significant reduction. Copyright © 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein aggregate myopathies (PAM) are an emerging group of muscle diseases characterized by structural abnormalities. Protein aggregate myopathies are marked by the aggregation of intrinsic proteins within muscle fibers and fall into four major groups or conditions: (1) desmin-related myopathies (DRM) that include desminopathies, a-B crystallinopathies, selenoproteinopathies caused by mutations in the, a-B crystallin and selenoprotein N1 genes, (2) hereditary inclusion body myopathies, several of which have been linked to different chromosomal gene loci, but with as yet unidentified protein product, (3) actinopathies marked by mutations in the sarcomeric ACTA1 gene, and (4) myosinopathy marked by a mutation in the MYH-7 gene. While PAM forms 1 and 2 are probably based on impaired extralysosomal protein degradation, resulting in the accumulation of numerous and diverse proteins (in familial types in addition to respective mutant proteins), PAM forms 3 and 4 may represent anabolic or developmental defects because of preservation of sarcomeres outside of the actin and myosin aggregates and dearth or absence of other proteins in these actin or myosin aggregates, respectively. The pathogenetic principles governing protein aggregation within muscle fibers and subsequent structural sarcomeres are still largely unknown in both the putative catabolic and anabolic forms of PAM. Presence of inclusions and their protein composition in other congenital myopathies such as reducing bodies, cylindrical spirals, tubular aggregates and others await clarification. The hitherto described PAMs were first identified by immunohistochemistry of proteins and subsequently by molecular analysis of their genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) most commonly occurs in kidney. In the central nervous system, cerebellum is the most common site of occurrence. CNS rhabdoid tumors typically occur in small children, do not respond favorably to treatment and are usually fatal within 1-year. Here is reported a 4-year-old child who presented with features of raised intracranial pressure. Apart from papillodema, there were no neurological signs. Imaging revealed a left lateral ventricular heterogeneous mass abutting the foramen of monro, with mild irregular contrast enhancement and hydrocephalus. The child underwent right ventriculo-peritoneal shunt followed by craniotomy and gross total tumor resection. He was discharged 10-days after surgery without any neurological deficits. Histopathology revealed features compatible with rhabdoid tumor. Despite radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the child died of progressive disease 10-months after surgery. The highly malignant nature of this tumor makes early diagnosis essential for aggressive management and prognostication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharma S, Sharma M C&Sarkar C(2005)Histopathology46,481–489Morphology of angiogenesis in human cancer: a conceptual overview, histoprognostic perspective and significance of neoangiogenesisThis paper reviews the histomorphological aspects of angiogenesis and neoangiogenesis, quantitative and qualitative, and their applications in prognostic evaluation of neoplastic diseases. The merits and weak points of intratumoral microvessel density (MVD), a widely regardedbona fidepredictor of tumour growth, metastases and patient survival, are discussed. Total microvascular area (TVA) has been found useful in recent prognostic studies utilizing newer immunohistochemical vascular markers. Of particular significance is the fact that MVD and TVA are most predictive of patient outcome in those tumours that induce significant neoangiogenesis, namely carcinomas of breast and prostate, and haematological malignancies. In contrast, carcinomas of lung and urinary bladder do not show significant associations of MVD and TVA with poor prognosis, reflecting differences in angiogenic mechanisms. In gliomas, MVD appears to correlate with outcome in high-grade, but not low-grade tumours, and does not correlate with tumour cellularity in the infiltrating portions of the tumour, reflecting a paucity of neoangiogenesis and directional vascular growth. Recent studies have found CD105, Tie-2/Tek and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors to be the best markers of neoangiogenesis. The vascular parameters so measured correlate better with overall and disease-free survival in breast, colon and lung carcinoma than panendothelial markers such as CD31. A correlation of vascular patterns with prognosis has been established in ocular melanomas, glioblastomas and squamous carcinomas of head and neck region. Vascular networks with closed loops are closely associated with mortality due to metastases in uveal melanomas. Fewer bizarre glomeruloid vessels and prominent classical capillary pattern was an independent predictor of longer survival in glioblastoma. Therefore a judicious combination of quantitative and qualitative microscopic angiogenic parameters, with emphasis on neoangiogenesis and vascular patterns wherever applicable, should be an integral component of a more consistent tumour staging system for accurate prognostic evaluation of tumours, selection of optimal anti-angiogenic therapy and pertinent research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is a phenotypic expression of a heterogeneous group of diseases and sarcoglycanopathy is one of the causes of LGMD. There is only one study on sarcoglycanopathies in the Indian literature. No data is available from northern India. Materials and Methods:All cases of muscular dystrophies, which were diagnosed in our laboratory in the last six years, were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry for various sarcoglycan proteins was done. Clinical features and pathological findings of the cases that were diagnosed as sarcoglycanopathies were reviewed. Results: In the last 6 ½ years (1998-June 2004), we received 1435 muscle biopsies, of which 498 cases were of muscular dystrophies, and 13 cases were of sarcoglycanopathies (8 of gamma, 3 of alpha, 1 of both alpha and gamma, and 1 with absence of all four sarcoglycans). Sarcoglycanopathies comprised 2.6% of all muscular dystrophies, 11.8% of LGMD and 0.90% of all muscle diseases diagnosed in our laboratory. The mean age of onset was 7.2 years and the M:F ratio was 1.1:1. Most of them presented with difficulty in getting up, climbing stairs, calf hypertrophy and markedly raised CPK levels. Histological features were like dystrophinopathies. Conclusion: Sarcoglycanopathies are a relatively rare cause of LGMD and should be confirmed by immunohistochemistry as it will facilitate counseling and also prognostification. Although rare, in patients with muscle weakness, calves hypertrophy and raised CPK levels this possibility should be considered and needs to be differentiated from dystrophinopathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central core disease is a congenital myopathy characterized by generalized hypotonia, muscle weakness and presence of central cores on muscle biopsy. It generally presents during infancy. It is familial with autosomal dominant inheritance [Chromosome 19q13.1; Gene Locus RyR1 (Ryanodine receptor gene)]. We report here two cases of central core disease in a 3-year-old male child and 8 year old female child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 15-month-old female child presented with sudden onset cough and hyperventilation along with evidence of metabolic acidosis. She had past history of recurrent vomiting, episodes of abnormal posturing, difficulty in deglutition and regression of milestones since 12 months of age. CT scan of the brain revealed hypodense lesions in bilateral basal ganglia and on MRI there were T2 hyperintensities in bilateral lentiform nuclei, caudate nuclei, thalamus, red nuclei and dentate nuclei. Biochemical examination revealed persistently elevated serum lactate levels with high lactate/pyruvate ratio. Resuscitative measures were of no avail and the child succumbed to the illness on the second day of admission. Neuropathological examination at autopsy demonstrated marked spongiosis, focal necrosis, endothelial proliferation, reactive astrogliosis and extensive demyelination involving bilateral basal ganglia, midbrain and spinal cord which were typical of Leigh's sub acute necrotizing encephalomyelopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary. The membranes from 50 cases of chronic subdural haematomas were examined histologically and correlated with the duration of the lesion. Cases were divided into three groups based on duration from time of trauma and/or onset of clinical symptoms to date of surgery – Group I: 1 to 30 days, Group II: 31 to 90 days and Group III: >90 days. Infiltration with eosinophils was observed in the vascularised and hyalinised granulation tissue of the subdural membrane in 30 of the 50 cases (60%). There was a trend to correlation both of the frequency and the extent of eosinophilic infiltration with duration of haematoma. Thus, eosinophils were encountered in about half the cases with duration up to 3 months which increased to 80% in cases with duration more than 3 months. The extent of eosinophilic infiltration (mild, moderate or severe) also appeared to correlate with duration of haematoma in that mild infiltration was more common in Group I cases while moderate to severe infiltration were more frequently observed in Group II and III cases. No correlation was observed of the eosinophilic infiltrate with age and sex of the patients or with presence of other cellular inflammatory components of the membrane. Interestingly, a finding hitherto unreported in English literature was the demonstration of mast cells in 7 of 16 membranes (44%) which had been stained using toluidine blue. It is possible that the eosinophils appear at this unusual site due to chemotactic stimulus abetted by these mast cells as well as lymphocytes and haemosiderin pigment. The eosinophils may have an important role in the repair and healing process of these membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors report a case of a 3-month-old male child with paraplegia in whom magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a nonenhancing intramedullary cystic lesion extending from the level of D1 to D7 without any other associated anomaly. Intraoperatively, these findings were confirmed and the spinal cord was found to have splayed circumferentially into a papery thin rim. The patient underwent marsupialization of the cyst with subtotal excision of the cyst wall. Histopathological examination revealed ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium consistent with the diagnosis of a neurenteric cyst. Intramedullary neurenteric cysts are rare developmental malformations, and out of the 13 previously reported cases, only 3 were evaluated by MRI. This is the first case report in the literature of an intramedullary neurenteric cyst presenting as infantile paraplegia. In the present report, the embryology, etiopathogenesis, radiological imaging and management of this rare clinical entity are discussed and a detailed literature review is presented.Copyright © 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate is an uncommon clinicopathological entity. It differs from more common adenocarcinomas in its cell of origin, biological behavior, therapeutic response to the usual hormonal manipulation and prognosis. The review shows that squamous cell carcinoma is biologically more aggressive than adenocarcinoma. Despite the agreement on its uniqueness, a controversy exists on the exact histopathogenesis, diagnostic criteria and modality of treatment. We report on 2 patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate. One patient presented with lower urinary tract symptoms with a hard nodular prostate on digital rectal examination, and the other with acute urinary retention on normal digital rectal examination. The evaluation revealed metastasis in the pelvic and right femur in both cases. Palliative transurethral resection of the prostate with chemotherapy (Adriamycin based) was given in both the cases. However, both the patients died at 4 and 5 months of follow-up, respectively.Copyright © 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intracranial mesenchymal chondrosarcoma (IMC) is a rare malignant tumor in pediatric population. IMC can present as extra- or intra-axial lesion in pediatric patients, though the former is commoner causing raised intracranial pressure (ICP). Radiological diagnosis is a challenge in these cases, as is it difficult to differentiate these from other extra-axial neoplasms due to the wide differential diagnosis in pediatric population. We aim to systematically review the literature and present a rare case of extraskeletal intracranial mesenchymal chondrosarcoma treated with safe maximal resection. Methods: A systematic review of literature was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed and Scopus databases were queried using the search terms, "primary intracranial chondrosarcoma", "extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma", "mesenchymal chondrosarcoma" and "pediatric". Presentation, surgical management and outcome of a 15-year-old male with an extraskeletal IMC are also described. Results: The search yielded 25 articles which met the inclusion criteria. These published records consisted of 33 IMC cases with mean age at presentation of 9.81 ± 5.2 years (range 2 months to 18 years). Frontal region was the commonest locations (11, 33.3%). Most common presentation was headache (14, 42.4%). All patients underwent surgical intervention: gross total resection (20, 60.6%), subtotal resection (9, 27.3%) and no extent mentioned (4, 12.1%). No adjuvant therapy was received in 15 patients (45.5%). On latest follow-up, 11 patients (33.3%) are on remission, 5 patients (15.2%) are symptom free, 3 patients (9.1%) had recurrence, 2 patients (6.1%) had metastasis and 9 patients (27.3%) expired. Conclusion: IMC is a rare entity in pediatric population with imaging findings which are non-characteristic leading to its diagnostic challenge. It can masquerade as other extra-axial intracranial neoplasm (meningioma or hemangiopericytoma). Combination of clinico-radiological and pathological examination can help in accurate diagnosis. Safe Maximal resection followed by radiotherapy is the preferred treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 25-year-old woman presented with 1 year of progressive orthopnoea, initially explained as bilateral diaphragmatic paresis caused by seronegative myasthenia gravis. She required assisted ventilation and received pyridostigmine and corticosteroids. She had minimal (particularly proximal) symmetrical tetraparesis with apparent bilateral diaphragmatic weakness, but had normal sensation. Further investigation suggested an overlap myositis with shrinking lung syndrome from systemic lupus erythematosus. She improved following immunosuppression with pulse corticosteroids and rituximab, and at 3 months no longer needed bilevel positive airway pressure support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven patients between the ages of 3 and 24 years were admitted to our hospital in the last 28 years who had a histological diagnosis of medullomyoblastoma. These patients presented with classic symptoms of a posterior fossa midline mass associated with evidence of raised ICP. A CT scan in each patient revealed a uniformly high-attenuating tumour in the posterior fossa with gross hydrocephalus. In all seven patients a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed prior to definitive surgery. Radical tumour excision was carried out in all cases 3–5 days after CSF diversion. The histological diagnosis was made on H&E-stained slides. In two cases each, the tumour tissue was subjected to electron microscopy and immunohistochemical studies. Six of the seven patients survived the operation. One patient died 21 days after surgery as a result of shunt block and shunt infection. All surviving patients received cranial and spinal radiation 2–4 weeks after surgery, and also chemotherapy. The cranial radiation dose ranged from 4500 to 5000 rad, while the spinal radiation dose was limited to 1500 rad. Patients were followed up carefully. Three patients died within 6 months, and the remaining three between 2.5 and 3 years after surgery. None of the patients in our study survived longer than 3 years. One patient had developed paraplegia. This study highlights the details of an uncommon entity and reports the largest collection of such cases in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 9-year-old male child had a IV ventricular medulloepithelioma of classical histology, showing tubulopapillary and undifferentiated areas. The unusual feature, however, was the presence of melanin pigmentation in the cells, which was further confirmed by electron microscopy. So far 28 cases of medulloepithelioma have been reported in the English literature. However, none of them showed melanin pigmentation. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case of pigmented medulloepithelioma in the English literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes the presentation, pre-operative findings, surgical management and follow-up results of 20 pediatric patients with pituitary adenomas. The most common presenting complaints encountered were, headache and decrease in visual acuity. Among the patients with endocrine problems, majority had frank Cushing's disease (30%). Nine patients (45%) were endocrinally normal. The most common, histological type of pituitary tumour encountered in this series was the Chromophobe adenoma. One patient died following surgery. Radiation therapy was given in all post operative cases. Response to radiation therapy has been satisfactory on follow up. The generally encouraging results we have observed following the multi-disciplinary treatment, confirms the findings reported by other workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]