Role of Shear Wave Elastography for Assessment of Renal-Allograft Fibrosis and its Correlation With Histopathology.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether shear wave elastography (SWE) can accurately identify interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) in chronic renal allograft injury (CRAI) and whether it can differentiate between different grades of IFTA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective observational study on renal transplant recipients who presented with CRAI. Patient selection was done on the basis of clinical presentation, serum creatinine, and eGFR levels. Biopsy and SWE were performed and SWE values were correlated with histopathological findings according to Banff schema. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was also analyzed to assess the diagnostic efficacy of SWE. RESULTS: Sxity-one patients were evaluated. Ten patients had no IFTA, 33 patients had mild IFTA, 16 patients had moderate IFTA, and 2 patients had severe IFTA. Mean parenchymal stiffness values in no IFTA, mild IFTA, moderate IFTA and severe IFTA were 39.86 ± 2.17 kPa (3.64 ± 0.09 m/s), 41.59 ± 3.36 kPa (3.71 ± 0.15 m/s), 47.59 ± 3.34 kPa (3.98 ± 0.14 m/s), and 53.83 ± 1.41 kPa (4.25 ± 0.03 m/s), respectively. SWE values of parenchymal stiffness reached statistical significance to differentiate between mild, moderate, and severe IFTA. ROC analysis revealed cut-off values of 45.09 kPa (3.89 m/s) to differentiate between mild IFTA and moderate IFTA, 52.06 kPa (4.18 m/s) to differentiate between moderate IFTA and severe IFTA with acceptable sensitivity and specificity. CONCLUSION: SWE is a non-invasive and cost-effective imaging tool to evaluate the disease status of renal allografts affected by CRAI. Thus, it can be of paramount importance if added to the regular follow-up imaging protocol of renal allograft along with grayscale and Doppler imaging.

Assessment of Gastric Residual Volume with Ultrasound in Children at Fasting and after Oral Intake of Carbohydrate-Rich Fluid in the Preoperative Period.

Purpose: Despite standard preoperative fasting guidelines, children are subjected to prolonged fasting due to various reasons. This does not reduce gastric residual volume (GRV) further, instead causes hypoglycemia, hypovolemia, and unnecessary discomfort. We calculated the cross-sectional area (CSA) of antrum and GRV in children in fasting state and 2 h after intake of oral carbohydrate-rich fluid, using gastric ultrasound. Methods: Anteroposterior and craniocaudal gastric antral diameters were measured by ultrasonography in the right lateral decubitus position, at fasting and at 2 h after 8 ml/kg of pulp-free fruit juice ingestion. CSA of antrum and GRV was calculated using validated mathematical models. Results: Data of 149 children of age >1-12 years were analyzed. Greater than ninety-nine percent of children emptied ≥95% of the ingested pulp-free fruit juice volume within 2 h. One hundred and seven (71.8%) children had reduced CSA and GRV at 2 h after fruit juice ingestion (2.01 ± 1.00 cm2 and 7.77 ± 6.81 ml) as compared to fasting state (3.18 ± 1.40 cm2 and 11.89 ± 7.80 ml). Fourty-nine (28.2%) children had slightly increased CSA and GRV at 2 h after fruit juice (2.46 ± 1.14 cm2 and 10.61 ± 7.26 ml) than at fasting (1.89 ± 0.92 cm2 and 8.61 ± 6.75 ml), but this increased GRV was grossly lower than limit of risk stomach (26.54 ± 8.95 ml). Conclusion: Carbohydrate-rich drink in the form of pulp-free fruit juice may be safely permitted up to 2 h before anesthetic induction, as it promoted gastric emptying in ≈ 72% of children and 28% of children, although GRV was slightly higher at 2 h after fruit juice ingestion than fasting but remained considerably lower than limit of risk stomach.

Exploring the binding mode of ester-based cationic gemini surfactants with calf thymus DNA: A detailed physicochemical, spectroscopic and theoretical study.

Gene therapy is a transfectant method for the treatment of hereditary disease, which transfers the gene mutation into the cells. In the view of the high prospects of utilization of cationic gemini surfactants as a non-viral vector for the gene transfection, we have made a comprehensive study on the interactions between a recently synthesized series of ester-functionalized cationic Cm-E2O-Cm gemini surfactants (m = 12, 14 and 16) with calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (ctDNA) utilizing various techniques. The micellization behavior of gemini surfactants has been altered in the presence of ctDNA. A series of measurements (fluorescence, UV-vis and time-resolved fluorescence) show that the quenching of ctDNA proceeds by a static mechanism. The competitive displacement studies (EB, AO and HO), KI quenching analysis, CD studies and viscosity measurements suggested intercalative binding mode in a stoichiometry ratio of 1:1 with the Kb (binding constant) order being: C16-E2O-C16 > C14-E2O-C14 > C12-E2O-C12. The thermodynamic parameters show that the geminis interacted with ctDNA spontaneously through ionic/electrostatic interactions. Furthermore, the theoretical approaches offer accurate insights about the binding of gemini surfactants with DNA, and are in consistence with the experimental results.

The obstructive index in antenatal unilateral pelviureteric junction obstruction: A novel predictor of the failure of conservative management.

BACKGROUND: To find the impact of the obstructive index (OI) as a predictor of management in antenatal pelviureteric junction obstruction. METHODS: Records of 135 cases of antenatally detected unilateral pelviureteric junction obstruction, selected for initial observation were retrospectively analyzed. All patients who underwent pyeloplasty on follow up were assigned to Group A. Those patients who were still on conservative management were assigned to Group B. The pelvic anteroposterior diameters of the affected (PAPD[A]) and normal kidney (PAPD[N]) of the same patient, along with the cortical thickness of the affected kidneys (CT[A]) and normal kidneys (CT[N]) on postnatal ultrasound scan, the T1/2 of the affected (T1/2 [A]) and normal kidneys (T1/2 [N]), the differential renal function (DRF), and the shape of the curve on a diuretic renogram were noted for each patient at 6 weeks. The OI was defined as (PAPD[A] × T1/2 [A]) / (PAPD[N] × T1/2 [N]). RESULTS: The median duration of follow up was 55 months (36-110). Median age at surgery was 12 months (4-80). Group A had 30 patients with 105 in Group B. On multivariate analysis, OI and shape of curve predicted need for surgery with statistical significance. Median OI in Group A was 18.9 compared to 4.82 in Group B (P < 0.001, Mann-Whitney). Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under curve for the OI was 0.95. A level of 12.2 could predict failure of conservative management with a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 92.4%. CONCLUSIONS: The OI can reliably predict the need for surgery at a very early stage, thus avoiding repeated tests and saving time.

Noninvasive urine metabolomics of prostate cancer and its therapeutic approaches: a current scenario and future perspective.

INTRODUCTION: The sensitive, specific, fast, robust and noninvasive biomarkers for the evaluation of prostate cancer (PC) remain elusive in medical research. However, efforts are in full sway to investigate and resolve these puzzles for clinical practice. Advances in modern analytical techniques, sample processing, and the emergence of multiple omics approaches have created a great hope for the development of better detection modalities for PC. The objective of the present review is to provide a concise overview of the PC metabolomics-based potential discriminating molecules in urine samples using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. AREA COVERED: A literature search was executed to find the studies reporting the noninvasive urine-based biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of underlying disease. Most studies have extensivelyreported PC discriminating molecules with their respective controls. Additionally, pathophysiology and the treatment paradigm of PC are summarized and related to the insights underpinning the therapeutic intervention of PC. EXPERT OPINION: With multi-centric, global, comprehensive omics approaches via either a non- or least-invasive bio-matrix may open new avenues of research for PC biomarker discovery, backed by a molecular mechanistic outline.

Mycotic Aneurysm of Brachial Artery in Case of Aplastic Anemia.

Pseudo-aneurysm of the brachial artery is relatively rare condition affecting the arterial vessels of the limbs. It can be due to trauma, infections or systemic vasculitis. We report a patient with aplastic anemia who developed pseudoaneurysm of the brachial artery following an episode of bacterial sepsis. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was isolated on blood culture. Patient was treated with systemic antibiotics and underwent embolization of the pseudo-aneurysm. He later developed vascular insufficiency of the forearm and a stent had to be placed in the brachial artery at the site of calcified thrombus inside the pseudo-aneurysm to produce the patency of the artery and ensure adequate blood flow to forearm and hand.

Role of preoperative MR volumetry in patients with renal cell carcinoma for prediction of postoperative renal function after radical nephrectomy and nephron sparing surgery.

PURPOSE: Preoperative computed tomography or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are commonly used for radiological evaluation of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) before radical nephrectomy or nephron sparing surgery(NSS). This study aimed to assess the role of MRI for predicting postoperative renal function by preoperative estimation of renal parenchymal volume and correlation with glomerular fi ltration rate (GFR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted from February 2015 to October 2016 at a tertiary care hospital in northern India. MR imaging was done on 3 Tesla MR scanner (Signa Hdxt General Electrics, Milwaukee, USA). MR volumetry was used to estimate the renal parenchymal volume. GFR was measured in all patients using Tc99m Diethyl-triamine-penta-acetic acid using Russell's algorithm. Such measurement was done preoperatively, and postoperatively 3 months after surgery. RESULTS: 30 patients with suspected RCC underwent NSS (n=10) and radical nephrectomy (n=20). Median tumour volume was 175.7cc (range: 4.8 to 631.8cc). The median volume of the residual parenchyma on the affected side was 84.25±41.97cc while that on the unaffected side was 112.25±26.35cc. There was good correlation among the unaffected kidney volume and postoperative GFR for the radical nephrectomy group (r=0.83) as well as unaffected kidney volume, total residual kidney volume and residual volume of affected kidney with postoperative GFR for the NSS group (r=0.71, r=0.73, r=0.79 respectively; P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Preoperative residual parenchymal volume on MR renal volumetry correlates well with postoperative GFR in patients with RCC undergoing radical nephrectomy or NSS.

Gangrene in Takayasu's arteritis: a report of two cases and review of literature.

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) is a granulomatous large vessel vasculitis more commonly seen in India. The vascular inflammation in TA results in stenoses of affected vessels. Usually this is a slow process with good collateral circulation; only rarely does critical limb ischemia result. We present two patients of TA who presented with gangrene of extremities, and review eight prior such patients reported in the literature. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment with oral corticosteroids and low-dose aspirin, none of our patients had recurrence at a mean follow-up of 3.8 ± 2.8 years. Although rare, TA can present with gangrene and rheumatologists need to be aware of this unusual but limb-threatening manifestation of TA to institute appropriate therapy in a timely manner.

Management of venous hypertension following arteriovenous fistula creation for hemodialysis access.

INTRODUCTION: Venous hypertension (VH) is a distressing complication following the creation of arteriovenous fistula (AVF). The aim of management is to relieve edema with preservation of AVF. Extensive edema increases surgical morbidity with the loss of hemodialysis access. We present our experience in management of VH. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 37 patients with VH managed between July 2005 to May 2014. Patient demographics, evaluation, and procedures performed were noted. A successful outcome of management with surgical ligation (SL), angioembolization (AE), balloon dilatation (BD) or endovascular stent (EVS) was defined by immediate disappearance of thrill and murmur with resolution of edema in the next 48-72 h, no demonstrable flow during check angiogram and resolution of edema with preservation of AVF respectively. RESULTS: All 8 distal AVF had peripheral venous stenosis and were managed with SL in 7 and BD in one patient. In 29 proximal AVF, central and peripheral venous stenosis was present in 16 and 13 patients respectively. SL, AE, BD, and BD with EVS were done in 18, 5, 4, and 3 patients, respectively. All patients had a successful outcome. SL was associated with wound related complications in 11 (29.73 %) patients. A total of 7 AVF were salvaged. One had restenosis after BD and was managed with AE. BD, EVS, and AE had no associated morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Management of central and peripheral venous stenosis with VH should be individualized and in selected cases it seems preferable to secure a new access in another limb and close the native AVF in edematous limb for better overall outcome.

Renal cortical rim sign.

The purpose of this article is to describe the imaging appearance of the "renal cortical rim sign" and review the clinical significance of this sign.

Risk stratification of vertebral artery vulnerability during surgery for congenital atlanto-axial dislocation with or without an occipitalized atlas.

CONTEXT: Variability in dimensions and course of vertebral artery (VA) makes it vulnerable to injury during surgery for congenital atlanto-axial dislocation (AAD) with or without an occipitalized atlas. AIMS: This prospective study attempts to define anatomical variations that render VA at the craniovertebral junction (CVJ) vulnerable to injury during transoral decompression and posterior stabilization procedures; and, to propose a classification that helps in preoperative risk stratification. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A prospective study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 104 patients (65 with AAD; 39 controls) underwent a three-dimensional multiplanar computed tomographic angiogram to study anatomical variations in VA size, course, and anomalous medial deviation as well as in the type of axial isthmus and rotational deformity/tilt at the CVJ. The VA/foramen transversarium diameter; "stretched loop" sign of VA; and C1-2 facet joint angle were also assessed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: A medial VA deviation that brought it in close proximity to the trajectory of the surgical approach was evaluated (P ≤ 0.05 significant). RESULTS: An increased predisposition to VA injury was present in 23 (35.4%) patients (persistent first intersegmental artery [n = 20; 30%]; fenestrated VA [n = 1; 1.53%], and low-lying posterior inferior cerebellar artery [n = 2; 3.0%]) where VA crossed the C1-2 facet joint; 8 (12%) with an anomalous medial deviation; 12 (18%) with a high-riding VA at C2 and a narrow axial isthmus; and 13 (20%) with rotation/tilt at the CVJ. A normal score of 5 was obtained in 21 patients; and a score of 6-9 (that progressively indicated an increased vulnerability of VA to iatrogenic injury) in 44 patients. The "AAD with an occipitalized atlas" group was associated with a significant medial deviation of VA (right: P = 0.00 and left: P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A preoperative detailed risk assessment of anatomical variations in the size and course of VA at the CVJ significantly reduces chances of its iatrogenic injury.

Spiral laminar flow, the earliest predictor for maturation of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis access.

INTRODUCTION: Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the gold standard vascular access for hemodialysis (HD). A thrill or murmur immediately after creation of AVF is considered a predictive sign of success. However, this does not ensure final maturation for successful HD. Our objective was to determine different clinical and duplex parameters within AVF to predict maturation and subsequent successful HD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted on 187 patients who had AVF formation from July 2012 to May 2013. Following surgery, all patients had Doppler ultrasound (DU) on Days 0 and 7. Doppler parameters noted in the outflow vein were: Thrill, broadening of spectral waveform with increased peak systolic velocity (PSV) and spiral laminar flow (SLF). Patients with at least one positive parameter at Day 0 were followed-up serially and underwent repeat Doppler imaging on Day 7. Patients with the absence of all three parameters on Day 0 were excluded from the study. Endpoint was maturation of AVF, i.e. successful HD. Statistical analysis was performed with binary logistic regression, to find out the strongest and earliest predictor for maturation of AVF using SPSS version 20. RESULTS: SLF and broadening of spectral waveform with increased PSV were found to have a significant association with maturation (P = 0.0001). Presence of SLF on Day 0 most strongly predicted maturation. Presence of thrill or murmur could not predict the maturation. CONCLUSIONS: SLF pattern in AVF is the most important and the earliest predictor of maturation.

Endovascular Management of Renal Artery Pseudoaneurysm in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Case Report.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is one of the most common hereditary kidney diseases. In addition to renal involvement, vascular complications including intracranial arterial, aortic aneurysms and dissections are common in these patients. We report the case of a 35-year-old male patient with ADPKD who presented with hematuria and was diagnosed with two intrarenal arterial pseudoaneurysms. Endovascular embolization using coils was performed to resolve these symptoms. Vascular complications are often encountered in patients with ADPKD; hence, sufficient clinical suspicion and timely diagnosis can help manage the disease. The most common causes of hematuria in ADPKD patients are cyst hemorrhage or infection; however, vascular aneurysms should also be considered a possibility.

Synthesis, characterisation, and in vitro antiparasitic activity of new flavanoidal tetrazinan-6'-ones and their binding study with calf thymus DNA using molecular modelling and spectroscopic techniques.

With the developing resistance to traditional antiparasitic medications, the purpose of this study was to efficiently develop a series of six noble flavanoidal tetrazinane-6'-one derivatives by a one-pot reaction pathway. FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and Mass spectra were employed for the structural elucidation of the synthesized compounds (7-12). Clinostomum complanatum, a parasite infection model that has been well-established, demonstrated that all the synthesized compounds are potent antiparasitic agents. DNA is the main target for various medicinal compounds. As a result, thestudy of how small molecules attach to DNA has received a lot of attention. In the present study, we have performed various biophysical techniques to determine the mode of binding of synthesized compounds (7-12) with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA). It was observed from the UV-visible absorbance and fluorescence spectra that all synthesized compounds (7-12) form complexes with the ct-DNA. The value of binding constant (Kb) was obtained to be in the range of 4.36---24.50 × 103 M - 1 at 298 K. Competitive displacement assay with ethidium bromide (EB), CD spectral analysis, viscosity measurements, and in silico molecular docking confirmed that ligands (7-12) incorporate with ct-DNA through groove binding only. Molecular docking studies were performed for all synthesized compounds with the calf thymus DNA and it was found that all the newly synthesized compounds strongly bind with the chain B of DNA in the minor groove with the value of binding energy in the range of -8.54 to -9.04 kcal per mole and several hydrogen bonding interactions.

Synthesis, characterization, computational studies and in vitro antiparasitic activity of novel flavanoidal-1,2,4,5-tetrazinane-6'-thione.

Keeping in view the growing resistance of conventional antiparasitic drugs, this study aimed to synthesize a series of six noble flavanoidal tetrazinane-6'-thione derivatives by employing a facile one pot reaction pathway. Structural characterizations of synthesized compounds were performed by using IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR and LC-MS spectra. Molecular docking study showed that one of the newly synthesized compounds strongly bind with the amino residues of BSA with two hydrogen bonding interactions. Physiological properties, pharmacokinetic properties (ADME) and toxicity of all synthesized compounds was carried out using Molinspiration and pkCSM softwares. DFT calculations were performed for all synthesized compounds using B3LYP method to obtain various molecular properties. Using a previously established model for parasitic infections, Clinostomum complanatum we showed that the newly synthesized compounds have a very potent parasitic activity. To elucidate the possible mechanisms, we tested the exposed parasites and observed a perturbation in lipid peroxidation and the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Implications of this are discussed in the light of development of these molecules as antiparasitic drugs. HIGHLIGHTSSix noble flavanoidal-1,2,4,5-tetrazinane-6'-thiones (7-12) were synthesized using flavanone derivatives and thiocarbohydrazide in acetic acid as a reagent in ethanol employing one-pot synthesis.Structural characterization of synthesized compounds was done using IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR and LC-MS spectra.Physicochemical analysis determined that all synthesized compounds are efficiently absorbed and have good permeability.In silico ADME and Toxic properties were determined for all synthesized compounds.In vitro antiparasitic activity was performed for all synthesized compounds against Clinostomum complanatum.Molecular Docking studies demonstrated the binding interaction with BSA enzyme through hydrogen bonding.Density functional theory (DFT) have been performed to estimate the various molecular properties of the synthesized compounds.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Direct Percutaneous Thrombolysis (DPT): A novel method of salvaging Thrombosed Native Arteriovenous Fistula.

INTRODUCTION: Thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are either treated by thrombectomy or pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis with or without percutaneous balloon angioplasty. In this study, we have described an effective and economical technique of salvaging these fistulae using a 20-22-gauge spinal needle and urokinase and have named it direct percutaneous thrombolysis (DPT). MATERIALS AND METHOD: This prospective study comprised of 148 patients out of which 120 patients presented with AVF thrombosis and were divided into two groups; those with no obvious stenosis on ultrasound (n = 38) and second with venous stenosis (n = 82). Remaining 28 patients developed thrombosis post angioplasty for venous stenosis. Percutaneous injection of urokinase into the thrombus was done under ultrasound guidance, followed by balloon angioplasty if there was associated stenosis. RESULTS: In 38 patients who didn't have any stenosis, 32 AVFs were successfully thrombolysed by DPT, with technical success of 84.2%. Remaining six patients required angioplasty because of chronic nature of clot. In 82 patients who had venous stenosis, 80 cases were treated successfully by DPT followed by angioplasty with technical success of 97.5%. In third group (n = 28), who developed thrombosis post angioplasty, 100% success rate was noted. The mean length of thrombus was 31.4 ± 4.6 mm and mean diameter of thrombosed vein was 10.5 ± 1.2 mm. There were no major complications encountered during the procedure. Minor complications were seen in 19 patients which included prolonged oozing from puncture site and local hematoma formation. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound guided DPT with urokinase is a safe and economical option for salvaging thrombosed AVF without vascular stenosis that does not need angioplasty.

Factors predicting improvement of renal function after pyeloplasty in pediatric patients: a prospective study.

PURPOSE: We assessed the specific preoperative sonographic and urinary factors that may be important in predicting renal function outcomes after pyeloplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively studied 52 consecutive patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction who underwent pyeloplasty at our tertiary care center between September 2009 and January 2011. Mean ± 2 SD patient age was 4.26 years (range 3 months to 18 years), and minimum followup was 6 months. Preoperative ultrasound findings recorded were pelvic anteroposterior diameter, pelvic cortical thickness, pelvic volume and pelvic cortical ratio. Spot urine protein-to-creatinine ratio from the renal pelvis and bladder was measured intraoperatively. Based on changes in differential renal function on diuretic renogram, patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 had stable differential renal function with less than 5% change, group 2 had improved differential renal function greater than 5% and group 3 had deterioration of differential renal function greater than 5%. Data were analyzed using SPSS®, version 17 with cross-tabulation, nonparametric tests and logistic regression. RESULTS: On ultrasound only anteroposterior diameter (p = 0.018) and pelvic cortical ratio (p = 0.038) were significantly different among the 3 groups. Difference in bladder sample protein-to-creatinine ratio was not significant (p = 0.69), while pelvic urine protein-to-creatinine ratio was significant (p = 0.001). Anteroposterior diameter, pelvic protein-to-creatinine ratio and pelvic cortical ratio were less than 50 mm, 0.5 and 15, respectively, in all patients with improved renal function. CONCLUSIONS: Sonographic and urinary biochemical parameters may predict improvement in renal function after pyeloplasty. Pelvic anteroposterior diameter, pelvic cortical ratio and pelvic urine protein-to-creatinine ratio are the most useful parameters.

Isolated renal zygomycosis: novel diagnostic and prognostic criteria with experience of a tertiary care center.

BACKGROUND: Isolated renal zygomycosis is a life-threatening infection and difficult to diagnose ante mortem due to varied presentations. Most reports in the literature are case reports. We are presenting our experience of 10 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective data of 10 consecutive patients with primary renal zygomycosis, including 2 post-transplant patients, in our tertiary care center was analyzed. Epidemiological characteristics, predisposing conditions, clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and treatment outcomes were recorded. Characteristic radiological findings were recorded. Localized disease was managed by supportive treatment or percutaneous drainage and extensive disease with unilateral or bilateral nephrectomy. Renal involvement was confirmed in all patients by histopathology. RESULTS: The mean age of presentation was 35 years. Five patients who had bilateral renal involvement presented with oliguric acute renal failure, hematuria and abdominal pain. Three had unilateral renal disease and presented with flank pain and fever. The two post-transplant patients presented with fever and graft dysfunction. Even after aggressive treatment 5 patients died, accounting for a mortality rate of 50%. CONCLUSION: Isolated renal zygomycosis can be diagnosed with typical radiological findings, combined with clinical, laboratory and histopathological features. This study describes the newer ante mortem radiological diagnostic criteria and prognostic predictors of the disease.

Primary mucinous cell adenocarcinoma of female urethra.

Primary adenocarcinoma of the female urethra is a rare entity. Its incidence increases with age with the highest rate in women aged more than 65 years. Adenocarcinoma of the urethra is more common among women than men and is associated with a relatively poor prognosis. We report a case of primary adenocarcinoma of the urethra and review the literature with emphasis on the diagnosis, management and outcome of this rare tumour.

Effect of local anesthetic drug procaine hydrochloride on the conformational stability of bovine hemoglobin: Multi-spectroscopic and computational approaches.

The interaction between bovine hemoglobin (BHb) and local anesthetic drug procaine hydrochloride (PCH) was examined by spectroscopic and computational studies. Intrinsic fluorescence analysis explored the ground-state complex formation in the binding of PCH with BHb through static quenching mechanism. The binding constants (Kb) are 29.38 × 103, 22.54 × 103 and 17.99 × 103 M-1 at 288, 298 and 308 K, respectively, and the ratio of BHb:PCH was 1:1 in the interaction mechanism of PCH and BHb. The acquired thermodynamic parameters (ΔH0, ΔG0 and ΔS0) demonstrated that interaction mechanism is spontaneous and enthalpy driven. The van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding have been played a predominant role in the binding mechanism. The UV-vis spectroscopy validates the ground-state complexation between PCH and BHb and the binding constant (Kb) has been evaluated utilizing Benesi-Hildebrand equation. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) results have demonstrated that the distance between donor (BHb) and acceptor (PCH) is very short (2.34 nm) suggesting a significant probability to energy transfer from BHb to PCH. Synchronous fluorescence results revealed that the alteration in the micro-environment of Tyrosine (Tyr) is more than tryptophan (Trp) residues suggesting that PCH molecule is close to Tyr residue. The secondary structure alterations were confirmed by CD, 3-D fluorescence and FT-IR spectroscopic measurements. Moreover, computational analyses further corroborated that PCH molecules are closer to Tyr residues as compared to Trp residues of BHb during the interaction process. The BHb-PCH complexes may contribute to a deeper understanding of the metabolism of drug, blood circulation process and may help to illustrate the relationship between functions and structure of BHb.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.