A preliminary evaluation of tick cement-cone protein extract for a vaccine against Hyalomma infestation.

Background: Vaccines have been widely exploited to prevent tick-borne infections in cattle. Most vaccines have faced failure in the field because of inconsistency in an immune response. It is presumed that the cement-cone proteins of ticks that participate in the acquisition of blood meal for ticks possess strong immune-stimulating properties and, hence, could be a useful candidate in vaccine development. Aims: We evaluated cement-cone proteins of tick Hyalomma anatolicum as a vaccine candidate against infestations of H. anatolicum and H. aegyptium in cattle. Methods: The cement-cone proteins were extracted from H. anatolicum to develop stage-reactive and immunogenic cross-reactive vaccine against the infestation of two species of ticks H. anatolicum and H. aegyptium. The immune response of the vaccine was tested against cement-cone proteins starved, partially fed, and richly fed ticks. Results: The findings of the present study demonstrated the cross-reactivity among the two species of ticks that belonged to the same genus (Hyalomma). The antigenic similarity between the two ticks species suggests that a common antigen may possibly be suitable for a vaccine against the two different species of ticks. The results have also indicated that the 23 kDa cement-cone protein of H. anatolicum and H. aegyptium may be responsible for the induction, or elicitation of immunogenic, common stage reactive, and cross-reactive host immune responses with consistent intensity throughout the life stages of ticks. Conclusion: The vaccine based upon cement-cone proteins of ticks may be a useful deterrent against tick-borne infections in cattle in countries like Pakistan.

Convalescent plasma, cytomegalovirus infection, and persistent leukopenia in COVID-19 recovery phase: What is the link?

Therapies used to tide over acute crisis of COVID-19 infection may lower the immunity, which can lead to secondary infection or a reactivation of latent infection. We report a 75-years-old male patient who had suffered from severe COVID-19 infection three weeks earlier and who had been treated with corticosteroids and convalescent plasma along with other supportive therapies. At time of discharge he had developed leukopenia which worsened at 1-week follow up visit. On 18th day post-discharge, he became very sick and was brought to our hospital with complaints of severe persistent dysphagia. During evaluation he was diagnosed to have an acute cytomegalovirus infection and severe oropharyngeal thrush. Both COVID-19 and cytomegalovirus are known to cause synergistic decrease in T cells and NK cells leading to immunosuppression. The patient made complete recovery with a course of intravenous ganciclovir and fluconazole. Persistent leukopenia in high risk and severely ill cases should give rise to a suspicion of COVID-19 and cytomegalovirus co-infection.

Two small, cysteine-rich and cationic antifungal proteins from Penicillium chrysogenum: A comparative study of PAF and PAFB.

The filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum Q176 secretes the antimicrobial proteins (AMPs) PAF and PAFB, which share a compact disulfide-bond mediated, ß-fold structure rendering them highly stable. These two AMPs effectively inhibit the growth of human pathogenic fungi in micromolar concentrations and exhibit antiviral potential without causing cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. The antifungal mechanism of action of both AMPs is closely linked to - but not solely dependent on - the lipid composition of the fungal cell membrane and requires a strictly regulated protein uptake into the cell, indicating that PAF and PAFB are not canonical membrane active proteins. Variations in their antifungal spectrum and their killing dynamics point towards a divergent mode of action related to their physicochemical properties and surface charge distribution. In this review, we relate characteristic features of PAF and PAFB to the current knowledge about other AMPs of different sources. In addition, we present original data that have never been published before to substantiate our assumptions and provide evidences that help to explain and understand better the mechanistic function of PAF and PAFB. Finally, we underline the promising potential of PAF and PAFB as future antifungal therapeutics.

A randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of a 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste on gingivitis.

INTRODUCTION: In previous studies, toothpastes with high levels of sodium bicarbonate (>50%) have reduced gingival inflammation and oral malodour. This study compared the effects of brushing for 6 weeks with 67% (test group) or 0% (control group) sodium bicarbonate toothpaste on gingival health. METHODS: This was a single-centre, single examiner-blind, randomized, controlled, two-treatment, parallel-group study. Eligible subjects (≥18 years) had ≥20 gradable teeth, mild-to-moderate gingivitis, a positive response to bleeding on brushing and ≥20 bleeding sites. The primary objective was to compare the number of bleeding sites following twice-daily use of 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste or 0% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste after 6 weeks. Secondary endpoints included Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Bleeding Index (BI) and volatile sulphur compounds (VSC), assessed after 6 weeks. Safety was assessed by treatment-emergent oral soft tissue abnormalities and adverse events. RESULTS: Of 148 patients randomized (74 to each treatment), 66 (89.2%) completed the study in the test group, compared with 69 (93.2%) in the control group. Compared with the control group, the test group had a significant reduction in the number of bleeding sites at Week 6 (absolute difference - 11.0 [-14.0, -8.0], P < 0.0001; relative difference - 25.4%), together with significant reductions in MGI and BI (both P < 0.0001). Although the median reductions from baseline for VSC were numerically greater in the test group, the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.9701). CONCLUSIONS: This 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste provided statistically significant improvements in gingival health and bleeding after 6 weeks of use.

Leprosy: A Great Mimicking Disease.

Leprosy may mask a variety of diseases. One such disease is systemic lupus erythematosus. The early differentiation between the two diseases is of utmost importance to institute appropriate treatment and reduce patient morbidity and mortality. Leprosy is a communicable, chronic granulomatous disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. This clinically manifests predominantly with neurological and cutaneous features. However, it may also manifest with a variety of autoimmune phenomena indicative of autoimmune diseases, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Infection with Mycobocterium leprae not only mimics lupus flares, but possibly may also act as a trigger for lupus reactivation; however, its relationship is still not fully understood and explored. We report a case that was diagnosed as leprosy but retrospective analysis revealed that it was probablythe initial manifestations of Lupus. During hospitalization the patient suddenly developed hypoxia and was found to have pulmonary haemorrhage. He was successfully managed with steroids, Mycophenolatemofetil along with other supportive treatment. Our case highlights the rare presentation of pulmonary haemorrhage in a male lupus patient and focuses on leprosy mimicking lupus.

Isolated Splenic Tuberculosis without Any Radiological Focal Lesion.

Incidence of tuberculosis (TB) of spleen is a rare entity and isolated splenic tuberculosis is an unusual phenomenon, especially in immunocompetent individuals. We came across a case of 63-year-old male who presented with high grade fever, loss of weight, and generalized weakness of one-month duration. When physically examined, he had pallor and moderate nontender splenomegaly without any other significant clinical findings. He had pancytopenia, elevated ESR, and positive Mantoux test. Ultrasonography and CT scan of abdomen showed splenomegaly without any other relevant findings. Markers of connective tissue disorders and bone marrow aspiration and biopsy all were noncontributory for diagnosis. Hence splenic biopsy was done and sent for histopathological examination. Presence of caseation surrounded by epitheloid granulomas and Langerhans cells was suggestive of diagnosis as tuberculosis. And gene probe for the AFB (acid fast bacilli) came to be positive. No primary focus was present in either lungs or other organs. Patient improved clinically with antitubercular treatment.

Comparison of the clinical efficacy of a new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm fluoride to a commercially available sensitive toothpaste containing 2% potassium ion on dentin hypersensitivity: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This clinical study was designed to compare dentin hypersensitivity relief among subjects who brushed their teeth with a new toothpaste containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm fluoride as sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) to subjects who brushed with a commercially available dentifrice containing 2% potassium ion as potassium nitrate over an eight-week period. METHODS: Adult male and female subjects from the New Delhi, India area were required to present two teeth that exhibited dentin hypersensitivity, both to tactile stimulation using the Yeaple Probe and to air blast stimulation delivered by a standard dental unit syringe. After an examination of the oral soft and hard tissues, qualifying subjects were randomly assigned one of the study dentifrices and a soft-bristled toothbrush, and were instructed to brush their teeth for one minute, twice daily (morning and evening), using only the toothbrush and dentifrice provided. No other oral hygiene practices were permitted over the course of the study. After two, four, and eight weeks of product use, subjects returned to the dental clinic for follow-up examinations of tactile and air blast sensitivity of the baseline-designated hypersensitive teeth. Examinations of the oral soft and hard tissues were also performed at these follow-up visits. RESULTS: Subjects who brushed with the new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm MFP exhibited statistically significant reductions (p < 0.05) in dentin hypersensitivity in response to tactile (36.2%, 33.1%, and 29.7%) and air blast (16.4%, 31.1%, 58.8%) stimuli when compared to the subjects who brushed with the 2% potassium ion as potassium nitrate dentifrice after two, four, and eight weeks, respectively. CONCLUSION: The use ofa new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm MFP provides greater efficacy in reducing dentin hypersensitivity when compared to a dentifrice containing 2% potassium ion, as potassium nitrate, after two, four, and eight weeks of product use.

Comparison of the clinical efficacy in reducing dentin hypersensitivity of a new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm sodium monofluorophosphate to a commercially available toothpaste containing 1000 ppm sodium monofluorophosphate: an eight-week clinical trial on adults in New Delhi, India.

OBJECTIVE: This clinical study evaluated relief from dentin hypersensitivity among subjects who brushed their teeth with a new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm fluoride as sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) to subjects who brushed with a commercially available dentifrice containing 1000 ppm MFP over an eight-week period. METHODS: Adult subjects from the New Delhi, India area, with two teeth that exhibited dentin hypersensitivity, both to tactile stimulation using the Yeaple Probe and to stimulation using an air blast delivered by a standard dental unit syringe, were screened for study enrollment. Qualifying subjects were randomly assigned one of the study dentifrices and instructed to brush their teeth for one minute, twice daily (morning and evening) with the provided dentifrice. Follow-up examinations for dentin hypersensitivity were conducted after two, four, and eight weeks of product use. RESULTS: Subjects provided with the new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm MFP exhibited statistically significantly (p < 0.05) greater reductions in dentin hypersensitivity in response to tactile (81.9%, 90.5%, and 116.7%) and air blast (39.5%, 56.7%, and 76.7%) stimuli than subjects assigned the 1000 ppm MFP dentifrice after two, four, and eight weeks, respectively. CONCLUSION: The use of a new dentifrice containing 8.0% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1000 ppm MFP provides superior efficacy in reducing dentin hypersensitivity (p < 0.05) than a control dentifrice containing 1000 ppm MFP alone after two, four, and eight weeks of use.

Efficacy of high-dose intra-dermal hepatitis B virus vaccine in previous vaccination non-responders with chronic liver disease.

BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination is essential in chronic liver disease (CLD), because it can help prevent acute-on-chronic disease, which has potentially fatal complications. Unfortunately, this group has a significant proportion of HBV vaccination non-responders. A variety of intra-muscular (IM) vaccination methods have been used in an attempt to remedy this poor-response, but with limited success. AIMS: Herein is reported the safety and efficacy of high-dose intra-dermal (ID) HBV vaccination in CLD individuals who had failed previous IM standard and boost-dosing regimens. METHODS: Forty-eight CLD individuals, known HBcAb negative, who had failed both a three-dose schedule of 40 µg IM vaccination, and boost dosing of either 40 or 80 µg IM, were identified, of which 42 completed the vaccination course. Each received a 40 µg ID total dose (20 µg per arm) during their clinic visits until a response was documented or a maximum of three doses had been administered. HBsAb titer ≥ 10 mIU/ml was regarded as an immunologic response; the intention was to achieve an optimum response of ≥ 100 mIU/ml. RESULTS: Twenty-nine of forty-two (69%) individuals had an immunologic response, with 15 (51%) of the responders having the optimum response. No changes in serologic data occurred. No serious dermatologic reactions were observed. No differences between those who responded and those who did not were observed with regard to the presence of cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, or chronic kidney disease. CONCLUSIONS: High-dose ID HBV vaccination of previous CLD non-responders to the standard IM regimen with boost dosing is both safe and efficacious, and should be considered for all such groups.

Absolute lymphocyte count: a cost-effective method of monitoring HIV-infected individuals.

AIM: Depletion of CD4 cell count is a hallmark of disease progression in AIDS. CD4 cell count is essential for physicians to decide about the timing of initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and for prophylaxis of opportunistic infections. WHO has recommended that, absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) of ≤1200/µL can substitute CD4 cell count of ≤200/µL in resource-constrained countries throughout the world. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was undertaken to know whether there is a correlation between CD4 cell count and ALC in HIV-infected individuals. A single sample of blood was withdrawn for ALC and CD4 cell count. The samples received from December 1, 2004 to December 31, 2005 were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 196 samples were collected from 185 patients. After exclusion, a total of 182 samples were analyzed. Results revealed that male:female ratio was 126:56 and their age ranged from 13 to 67 years. The median ALC was 1747 cells/µL, whereas the CD4 cell count ranged from 5 to 2848. The correlation coefficient between ALC and CD4 cell count was significant (0.714). There were 49 patients with an ALC of ≤1200/µL of whom 77.6% patients had CD4 cell count ≤ 200/µL (true positive) and 22.4% had CD4 cell count > 200/µL (false positive). There were 133 patients with an ALC of >1200/µL of whom 84.2% had CD4 cell count > 200/µL (true negative) and 15.8% had CD4 cell count ≤ 200/µL (false negative). Taking ALC of ≤1200/µL as a predictor of CD4 cell count ≤ 200/µL ,the sensitivity of the test was 64.4% and specificity was 91.1%. The positive predictive value was 77.6%, negative predictive value was 84.2%, and accuracy was 82.4%. CONCLUSION: We found that an ALC of ≤ 1520/µL has higher sensitivity (78%) for a CD4 cell count of ≤ 200/µL. The ALC was found to be significantly cost-effective in our setup but chances of missing out patients requiring ART was 1 in 5 using the WHO guidelines.

Unusual cause of weight loss in a patient with HIV-hepatitis C virus coinfection.

Recombinant interferon α (IFN α), alone or in combination, is used extensively in the treatment of hepatitis C infection. IFN therapy is not free of side-effects and autoimmune thyroiditis is one of its rare side-effects. We present here a case of a patient with hepatitis C virus-human immunodeficiency virus coinfection on interferon therapy who presented with significant weight loss. He was found to have IFN-related autoimmune thyrotoxicosis and responded to antithyroid drugs and propanolol. Therefore, this case highlights that IFN-induced thyroiditis is an unusual side-effect and that during treatment, a thyroid-stimulating hormone assay should be performed at regular intervals (every 8-12 weeks).

Aggressive natural killer cell leukaemia: a rare and fatal disorder.

Natural killer (NK) cell neoplasms, which include extra-nodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (nasal and extra-nasal) and aggressive NK cell leukaemia, are generally rare, but they are more common in people of Oriental, Mexican and South American descent. These neoplasms are highly aggressive, and show a strong association with Epstein-Barr virus. Aggressive NK cell leukaemia affects younger patients, who present with poor general condition, fever, and disseminated disease; they often die within a short time from systemic disease or complications such as multi-organ failure. Aggressive NK cell leukaemia must be distinguished from T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukaemia and indolent NK cell lympho-proliferative disorder, both of which are indolent. We present a case of young Asian male with aggressive NK cell leukaemia who presented with a poor general condition and disseminated disease. The patient had a rapidly progressive disease and died within weeks of diagnosis.

Leucocytoclastic vasculitis as a presentation of adenocarcinoma rectum.

Vasculitis has been linked to several processes, like infections, drugs and allergic, rheumatologic and neoplastic diseases. Neoplasm-associated vasculitis described in the medical literature has mostly been reported in association with haemotological neoplasms. Adenocarcinoma of rectum presenting as leucocytoclastic vasculitis is rare. We present a case of a 43-year-old male with paraneoplastic leucocytoclastic vasculitis preceding the manifestation of adenocarcinoma rectum. The vasculitis subsided on resection of the rectal malignancy and the patient did not require steroid therapy thereafter.

Gangrenous sigmoid volvulus: a clinical study of 76 patients.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: This study investigated the clinical picture of gangrenous sigmoid volvulus presented by Indian patients to describe the various patterns of gangrene and to identify the risk factors leading to the very high mortality from this disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A structured protocol including nine parameters was used to study risk factors in 76 patients treated at two major teaching hospitals in India. The clinical picture of patients at the two hospitals did not differ significantly. RESULTS: Contrary to expectations, we found gangrene in 26% of cases extending beyond the area of constriction into the rectum/descending colon. This extension was sometimes patchy and had an ill defined line of demarcation, which may lead to an error in judgment and cause a failure of anastomosis, which can be fatal. Risk factors were age over 60 years, the presence of shock on admission and a history of previous episodes of volvulus. CONCLUSION: This study identified three risks for survival. It is suggested that all patients with nongangrenous sigmoid volvulus undergo a recurrence-prevention procedure immediately or electively. We also found that extension of gangrene beyond the confines of the constriction is not uncommon, calling for caution on the part of the treating surgeon.