The effect of Annona muricata (Graviola) on the prevention of brain damage due to ionizing radiation in rats

In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the effect of ethanol extract of Annona Muricata (AM) leaves in the prevention of brain damage caused by ionizing radiation (IR). This study was conducted in the Experimental Animal Research Unit of a university with 28 adults female Wistar Albino rats. The experimental groups were as follows: Control group (n = 8), AM group (n = 6), IR group (n = 8), AM + IR group (n = 6). In the IR group, astrocyte hypertrophy, microglial reaction and inflammatory reaction levels were significantly higher than the control and AM groups (P < 0.001). Edema was significantly higher in the IR group compared to the control group (P=0.001). The MDA of the IR group was significantly higher compared to the control group and AM group (P=0.031, P=0.006, respectively). The MDA of the AM + IR group was significantly higher than the AM group (P=0.039). Our findings show that histomorphology and oxidant damage caused by IR can be ameliorated using AM, as demonstrated by the comparison of the controls to AM + IR recipients, which showed similar histomorphology and oxidant damage levels.

Flow diverter stent treatment for unruptured supraclinoid segment internal carotid artery aneurysms: a Turkish multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Despite the relatively high success of surgical clipping of supraclinoid segment aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (ICA), flow diverter (FD) stent therapy is becoming increasingly used for these aneurysms. This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of FD placement for unruptured ICA supraclinoid segment aneurysms at 6 different centers with different experience levels in Türkiye.

METHODS

In this retrospective, multicenter study, the authors reviewed the demographic information, aneurysm shape/dimensions (neck, aspect ratio, dome/neck ratio, and maximum diameter), preoperative antiplatelet regimen, FD stent brand, perioperative complications, intervention time, clinical (modified Rankin Scale) and radiological (O'Kelly-Marotta [OKM] grading scale) outcomes, and follow-up time of 54 patients.

RESULTS

A total of 55 interventions for 61 aneurysms (58 supraclinoid ICA aneurysms) were performed in the 54 patients included in the study. The female/male ratio in this population was 44/10, and the mean age was 53.5 ± 13.6 (range 21-82) years. The most common form and location of the aneurysms were saccular 91.4% (53/58) and ophthalmic segment 69% (40/58), respectively. The preferred antiplatelet regimen was acetylsalicylic acid plus ticagrelor 50% (27/54). The overall complication rate was 25.5% (14/55), and the mean follow-up time was 25.76 ± 17.88 months. The successful radiological outcome (OKM grade C or D) rate at the 6-month follow-up was 92.6%. No perioperative complications led to any permanent or transient neurological deficit.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this first multicenter study evaluating FD stent use for unruptured ICA supraclinoid segment aneurysms showed that FD stent treatment is a feasible method for replacing clipping and coil embolization with manageable complications and a high success rate.

Symptomatic Spinal Seeding Metastasis of a Low-grade Oligodendroglioma

Extracranial metastases from primary brain tumours are mostly caused by high-grade tumours. Metastases from low-grade intracranial tumours are much rare and usually asymptomatic. We present a case of a symptomatic spinal cord compression with intradural extramedullary and diffuse leptomeningeal infiltration observed approximately 51 months after the first diagnosis of a 52-year male patient with WHO Grade 2 oligodendroglioma with temporoparietal localisation. This patient, who had the complaint of weakness in the lower extremity, was operated on due to a thoracic intradural extramedullary mass. The result of the pathological examination came out as WHO Grade 2 oligodendroglioma, and radiotherapy was planned for this seeding metastasis. The patient who experienced refractory seizures died before his radiotherapy treatment was completed. It should be kept in mind that spinal metastases may also be seen in low-grade intracranial tumours without malignant transformation as in the present case. Key Words: Spinal seeding, Spinal metastases, Low-grade oligodendroglioma.

Clinical comprehensive and experimental assessment of the radioprotective effect of Annona muricata leaf extract to prevent cellular damage in the ileum tissue

We report the radioprotective attitude of Annona muricata (AM) leaf extract as antioxidant material to prevent cellular damage in the ileum tissue. The protective effects of an ethyl acetate extract of AM leaves are comprehensively investigated against radiation-induced ileal damage in numerous rats. Thirty-two adult female rats were separated into 4 groups (3 intervention groups and 1 control) as follows: controls received 0.01 mL/kg distilled water, the AM group received 300 mg/kg AM leaf extract, the ionizing radiation (IR) group received a single dose of whole body radiation (8.3 Gy) after 0.01 mL/kg saline treatment, and the AM + IR group received 300 mg/kg AM leaf extract treatment and were subjected to whole body radiation (8.3 Gy) 1 h after the last gavage. All treatments are administered by oral gavage once a day for 9 days. At the end of the experiment, biochemical total oxidant status (TOS, interleukin-6, and caspase) and histological examinations are performed on blood samples as well as ileum tissue. TOS levels are found to be significantly high in rats, which received irradiation, and those in the AM group when compared to controls. These findings suggest that AM has radioprotective effects on ileum tissue, likely because of its antioxidative properties. The findings of this research may contribute to the minimizing of major side effects induced by excessive radiation exposure in patients undergoing radiotherapy and may serve as a significant impetus for further assessments. However, future studies are highly recommended to confirm safety and to determine extraction technique and dosage before human use can be considered.

Surgical Treatment of Far Lateral Lumbar Disc Herniation: Outcomes of the Safe and Simple Midline Approach

Objective

Surgery for far lateral lumbar disc herniation (FLLDH) hernias is different than surgery for median and paramedian disc hernias. Our study offers a minimally invasive surgical technic for far lateral disc herniations.

Methods

The results of the midline surgical approach in 18 patients diagnosed with FLLDH were evaluated retrospectively.

Results

A total of 18 patients (7 females, 11 males), with a mean age of 57.9±9.4 years (range: 35-71 years), were included in the analyses. Three patients (16.7%) had lesions at the left L3-L4 level, six patients (33.3%) on the left L4-L5 level, five patients (27.8%) on the right L3-L4 level, and four patients (22.2%) on the right L4-L5 level. All patients had low back and leg pain. These complaints completely regressed after surgery.

Conclusion

This study presents a review of a consecutive series of patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery for FLLDH using a midline approach.

Measuring the shape and dimensions of normal the bony structures in the craniovertebral junction from computed tomography images of the pediatric age group

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to contribute to the literature by determining the morphometric reference values of the bony structures in the craniovertebral junction (CVJ) from computer tomography (CT) images of the pediatric age group.

METHODS

In this study, CT's of 151 simple trauma patients aged between 3 and 15 years between 2016 and 2020 were evaluated. All CT examinations were performed using a 32-slice CT and included images of the skull base and C1-C2 junction. A total of 10 measurements were obtained from these images, including Wachenheim clivus canal angle (WCA), Welcher basal angle (WBA), Cran-iocervical tilt angle (CCT), power ratio (PR), Atlantodens interval, McRae Line (MRL), McRae - Dens distance, basion-dens interval (BDI), basion-axis interval (BAI), and atlantooccipital measurement (AOM).

RESULTS

In comparison between gender groups, MRL (p=0.011) and AOM (p<0.001) measurements were found to be significantly higher in males. McRae-Dens distance, BDI, and AOM were significantly higher in patients aged 3-9 years (respectively, p=0005, p=0.003, p<0.001), and BAI (p=0.001) was significantly higher in patients aged 10-15 years. The McRae - Dens distance (p=0.119) was similar between patients with and without terminal ossicle in odontoid apex. But BDI of patients without terminal ossicle was significantly higher (p=0.048). All parameters, except the WCA, WBA, CCT, and PR, were statistically significantly correlated with the patient age (respectively, p=0.21, p=0.13, p=0.70, p=0.99).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the morphometric reference values of the bone structures at the CVJ were determined from the CT images of the pediatric age group.

Evaluation of the effects of berberine in the prevention of epidural fibrosis in rats: An experimental research

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of berberine (BBR) in preventing the development of epidural fibrosis (EF) after lumbar surgery in rats.

METHODS

This experimental study was carried out at the animal laboratory of Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Trurkey, between April 2020 and June 2020. A total of 32 Wistar albino female rats underwent laminectomy and were divided into 4 equal groups. Group 1 did not receive any treatment (control group). In group 2, absorbable gelatin sponge was placed at the surgical site. Groups 3 was administered BBR 10 mg/kg and group 4 was administered BBR 60 mg/kg per oral per day for one week after laminectomy. All rats were sacrificed 6 weeks after the operation. Concentration of hydroxyproline (HP) in tissues and histopathological evaluations were carried out to evaluate the level of fibrosis.

RESULTS

Epidural fibrosis results in group 4 were significantly lower than those in groups 1 and 2 (p≤0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the mean EF degree between group 2 and group 3. Arachnoidal invasion in both group 3 and group 4 were significantly lower compared to group 1 (p<0.05). In terms of HP results, the difference between group 4 and group 1 was statistically significant (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study provides preliminary evidence of the potential use of BBR for preventing the development of EF.

Evaluation of the effect of endotracheal aspiration at different head heights on oxygenation of the brain by non-invasive method in intensive care patients

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of endotracheal aspiration at different head heights on oxygenation brain by non-invasive method in neurosurgery intensive care patients.

BACKGROUND

Head elevation of mechanical ventilator-dependent neurosurgery patients and the possible risks of endotracheal aspiration are closely related to the clinical conditions of the patients.

DESIGN

A prospective quasi-experimental study with repetitive measurements in a single group.

METHODS

In the study, neurosurgery intensive care patients were adjusted to a head height of 15, 30 and 45° (n = 46, power analysis %90). Cerebral oxygenation levels were determined with a non-invasive device at each head height before and in the 1st, 5th and 30th min of endotracheal aspiration. Data were collected with Patient Information Form and cerebral oxygenation device based on NIRS technology. This study performed according to the TREND reporting guidelines for non-randomized/quasi experimental study.

RESULTS

The highest cerebral oxygenation value was obtained at 30 min. The decrease in the cerebral oxygenation levels of the patients was highest in the 1st min after endotracheal aspiration, at a head height of 15 degrees for the right cerebral region and at a head height of 30 degrees for the left cerebral region. The increase in oxygenation of the right and left cerebral regions occurred highest at a head height of 45 degrees.

CONCLUSIONS

The ideal head height should be 45 degrees during and after endotracheal aspiration in regard to maintaining cerebral oxygenation in neurosurgery intensive care patients. It is extremely important to monitor the cerebral oxygenation status of patients, with non-invasive measurement tools during and after endotracheal aspiration, to prevent secondary complications.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study reveals the importance of raising the head 45 degrees in the best preservation of cerebral oxygenation values in neurosurgery intensive care patients. Intensive care nurses should pay attention to maintaining this head height.

Efficacy of Annona muricata (graviola) in experimental spinal cord injury: biochemical and histopathological analysis

BACKGROUND

Annona muricata (AM) (graviola) is a plant that grows in tropical regions and is thought to be good for many diseases by local people. Unfortunately, there is no acceptable medical treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI) yet. In our study, we investigated the neuropeotective effects of AM leaf extract on SCI in an experimental rat model.

METHODS

A total of 40 Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into five equal groups (n=8). Group 1 was the control group in which only laminectomy was performed. Trauma was induced in four groups after laminectomy. Group 2 (untreated trauma group) was given no medication. In Group 3, a single intraperitoneal dose of methylprednisolone (30 mg/kg) was administered after trauma. The rats in Groups 4 received a low dose (100 mg/kg) of AM leaf extracts by oral gavage one week before trauma while the rats in Group 5 received a high-dose (300 mg/kg) of these extracts by oral gavage one week before trauma. All rats, including the control group, were sacrificed 24 h after the trauma was created.

RESULTS

Tissue samples taken to evaluate the neuroprotective effect were examined biochemically and histopathologically. Inflam-matory findings in the trauma group were significantly better in both groups treated with AM. There was no difference between the groups in terms of clinical motor examination and inclined plane test results.

CONCLUSION

Our histopathological and biochemical results showed that AM is an agent with neuroprotective effects in trau-matic SCI.

Rebar-induced transpalatal penetrating head trauma: a case report

Penetrating head injuries caused by blunt or piercing objects are rare. In this paper, we present the case of a 9-year-old boy referred to our hospital with rebar-induced injury. The patient's neurological examination findings were normal. Computed tomography undertaken revealed that the rebar had entered through the oral cavity transorally-transpalatally, passing the frontal bone, and then exited the body by piercing the skin. The patient was taken to emergency surgery, and first, tracheostomy was performed. The rebar had been cut and shortened by the emergency rescue unit, which resulted in shortening the part of the foreign body that would pass through the brain parenchyma. During surgery, the rebar was carefully removed by following the route of the entry. All the defects caused by the foreign body were surgically repaired using a multidisciplinary approach, including neurosurgery and plastic and reconstructive surgery, by otolaryngology teams.

The preventative effect of of Ro5-4864 (peripheral benzodiazepine receptor agonist) on spinal epidural fibrosis after laminectomy in a rat model

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the histopathological effects of a peripheral benzodiazepine receptor agonist (Ro5-4864) on epidural fibrosis (EF) in an experimental study model (post-laminectomy) in rats.

METHODS

A total of 32 albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into four equal groups (n = 8). In Group 1, no treatment was applied after laminectomy (control group). In Group 2, hemostasis was achieved after Laminectomy, and the surgical procedure was terminated by placing a 2-mm absorbable gelatin sponge dipped in saline into the epidural space. In Group 3, low-dose (4 mg/kg) Ro5-4864 was administered 30 minutes before the surgery. In Group 4, high-dose (8 mg/kg) Ro5-4864 was administered 30 minutes before the surgery. A histopathological examination was performed to evaluate arachnoidal invasion and EF.

RESULTS

Our data revealed the EF was significantly reduced in rats treated with high-dose Ro5-4864 (Group 4) compared to the control and saline-soaked Spongostan groups (p = 0.000 and p = 0.006, respectively). There was no significant difference between the groups treated with high- and low-dose Ro5-4864. Arachnoidal invasion was not seen in any of the rats in the high-dose R05-4864 group. However, the arachnoidal invasion results did not significantly differ between the study groups (p = 0.052 = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that Ro5-4864 could be effective in reducing EF in rats after.

The histopathological effects of reabsorbable polyethylene glycol hydrogel (Coseal) on epidural fibrosis in an experimental postlaminectomy model in rats

Background/aim

To investigate the histopathological effects of reabsorbable polyethylene glycol hydrogel (RPGH, Coseal) on epidural fibrosis (EF) following laminectomy in rats.

Materials and methods

A total of 24 rats were equally divided into three groups. In the first group, no treatment was applied after laminectomy (control group, Group 1). In the second group, hemostasis was achieved after laminectomy, and 2 mm absorbable gelatin sponge soaked in saline was placed over the epidural space and the wound was closed (Group 2). In the third group, hemostasis was achieved following laminectomy, and 0.5 mL RPGH (Coseal, Group 3) was squeezed over the dura mater, and the wound was closed. A histopathological examination was undertaken to evaluate arachnoidal invasion and EF.

Results

The results of EF in the Group 2 and Group 3 were significantly lower compared to the Group 1 (p = 0.023 and p = 0.002, respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between the Group 2 and Group 3 in terms of EF (p = 0.957). There was also no statistically significant difference between the mean arachnoidal invasion of the three groups (p > 0.171). However, the rate of arachnoidal invasion was the lowest in the Group 3.

Conclusion

Intraoperative Coseal, a polyethylene glycol polymer, tends to reduce the risk of epidural fibrosis, although this is not statistically significant.

The MEFV gene and its association with familial Mediterranean fever, severe atopy, and recurrent respiratory tract infections

BACKGROUND

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is the most common auto-inflammatory disease and is characterized by self-limiting episodes of fever and polyserositis. The aim of this study was to determine the atopic clinical findings associated with the MEFV gene.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of pediatric patients who had received a diagnosis of familial Mediterranean fever between August 2015 and November 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 454 patients with familial Mediterranean fever were evaluated. The median age of diagnosis was 60 months (min-max: 6-228) and the percentage of patients who were male was 57.5%. A MEFV gene mutation was determined in 310 (68.3%) children. The most frequent genetic mutation was a R202Q heterozygote mutation, which was found in 95 patients (20.9%). When compared with MEFV-negative patients, elevation of serum amyloid A and fibrinogen levels during an episode of FMF was found to occur more frequently in MEFV-positive patients (p=0.019 and 0.027, respectively). Male gender, cigarette exposure, and a younger diagnosis age were seen more frequently in patients who had episodes with fever (p=0.039, 0.022, and 0.001, respectively). Chronic cough with sputum and persistent purulent rhinitis were more frequent in the group which did not experience fever episodes (p=0.003 and 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

While being a periodic fever syndrome, familial Mediterranean fever also presents as a multisystemic disease with heterogeneous clinical symptoms. Severe atopic diseases and recurrent respiratory tract infections are characteristic features of this disease.

Significance of serum endothelial cell specific molecule-1 (Endocan) level in patients with erectile dysfunction: a pilot study

This study aimed to measure the serum endocan level of patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and to investigate the possible association between the Endothelial-specific molecule-1 (Endocan) level and ED. Twenty healthy and sixty-four male patients included in the study were divided into four groups: severe ED (19 patients), moderate ED (24 patients), mild ED (21 patients) and control group (20 healthy men). The erectile function of all the patients was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire. The body mass index (BMI) of each participant was determined, together with levels of fasting blood glucose, total testosterone, low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride and endocan in serum samples. No significant difference was found between the three ED groups and the control group in terms of the mean age, BMI and the levels of cholesterol and fasting blood glucose (P>0.05). The mean serum endocan level was found to 1.076±0.5, 0.674±0.40 and 0.671±0.3 ng ml^-1 in the severe, moderate and mild ED groups, respectively. This indicated that the highest value was obtained from the severe ED group, and the difference between the severe ED group and the other groups was statistically significant. In the control group, the serum endocan level was 0.73±0.46 ng ml^-1, which was significantly higher compared to the moderate and mild ED groups (P<0.05). The significant difference between the control and ED groups in terms of the serum endocan level can assist in the evaluation of endothelial pathologies in the etiology ED.

The effects of L-carnitine on some hematological parameters in rats fed a cholesterol-rich diet

We evaluated the effects of L-carnitine on the hematological characteristics of rats fed a cholesterol-rich diet. Healthy male Wistar Albino rats were assigned to four equal groups. During the 40 day experiment, group 1 was fed standard rat pellets, group 2 was fed standard rat pellets containing 7.5 % cholesterol powder, group 3 was fed standard rat pellets and water that contained 75 mg/l L-carnitine, and group 4 was fed standard rat pellets that contained 7.5% cholesterol and water that contained 75 mg/l L-carnitine. Blood samples were analyzed for red (RBC) and white (WBC) blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, mean cell volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) using an automated cell counter. The RBC count in the group that received the 7.5% cholesterol diet was decreased significantly compared to the other groups. The hematocrit of the cholesterol group was lower than for the L-carnitine + cholesterol and L-carnitine groups. The MCV in the cholesterol group was significantly higher than the control group. The MCH in the cholesterol group was higher than for the other groups. There was no significant difference among the groups with regard to hemoglobin, MCHC, WBCs and leukocyte types. L-carnitine appears to have beneficial effects on erythrocyte stability, erythropoiesis and hyperlipidemia.

A case of propylthiouracil-induced antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody-positive vasculitis successfully treated with radioactive iodine

Antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis is one of the rare complications of propylthiouracil treatment. Having a variable clinical spectrum, it may be presented with both skin limited vasculitis and life-threatening systemic vasculitis. In this study, we present a case that developed ANCA-positive vasculitis with skin and kidney involvement (hematuria and proteinuria) six months after propylthiouracil treatment was initiated for toxic nodular goiter. Proteinuria recovered dramatically subsequent to radioactive iodine treatment following ceasing the drug.

Age and gender related changes in hematological parameters of thoroughbred foals

Hematological and biochemical profiles commonly are required in equine medicine. We studied hematological parameters including red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (PCV), differential leukocyte counts, mean cell volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in thoroughbred foals at different ages and for both sexes. Sixty healthy thoroughbred foals, 1 day, 3 days and 1 year old were used. Each age group consisted of 10 male and 10 female animals. We found significant differences related to age in RBC values of females, PCV, MCV values of males, WBC, neutrophil percentages, lymphocyte percentages, monocyte percentages of females, and eosinophil percentages and basophil percentages. Significant differences related to gender were found only with regard to PCV at 1 year and WBC at 1 day. The hematological parameters of thoroughbred foals up to one year old may be useful for evaluating and monitoring the health of these animals.

Effects of aflatoxin on some haematological parameters and protective effectiveness of esterified glucomannan in Merino rams

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the toxic effects of aflatoxin on some hematological parameters and to determine the preventive effectiveness of added glucomannan. In the study, 32 Merino rams were used, and the rams were separated equally to four groups as control (C), glucomannan (G), glucomannan + aflatoxin (AG), and aflatoxin (A). Erythrocyte, leukocyte count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels were decreased in A group compared with the other groups, and there was a reduction in similar parameters in AG group compared to control values. On the other hand, these parameters were tended to increase in AG group compared to A group values. Aflatoxicosis caused the lymphocytopenia and monocytopenia but increased percentage of neutrophil counts. In conclusion, the results determined in the study might be important to demonstrate the effects of aflatoxicosis and glucomannan on some haematological parameters before the clinical symptoms appear.

Recurrence of ovarian cyst after sclerotherapy

AIM

The aim of this paper was to evaluate correlation between cyst recurrence and some cyst characteristics after sclerotherapy of non-neoplastic ovarian cyst with alcohol-erythromycin combination.

METHODS

Fifty two cases of simple ovarian cysts were subjected to sclerotherapy with alcohol and erythromycin. Two patients were excluded due to suspicious cytologic result. All patients were followed-up monthly with color Doppler ultrasonography for over 12 months. Failure of procedure was considered if recurrent cyst diameter exceeds 5 centimeters detected by ultrasound. Cyst size, volume and color of aspirate, steroid hormone, and tumor marker levels of the cyst fluid were correlated to the recurrence rate.

RESULTS

The fluid of cyst was serous in 32 cases and dark chocolate-colored in twenty cases. Cytological analyses of thirty cysts were acellular sediment, twenty were suitable with endometrioma and two were reported as suspicious. At 12-month follow-up, 12 cyst recurrences was detected. There was no difference in aspirated cyst volume, cyst size and FSH and LH content of recurrent and resolved cyst. The cyst wall thickness of recurrent cyst was higher than that of resolved cyst (P<0.001). The mean estradiol and progesterone concentrations of resolved cysts were significantly higher than that of recurrent cysts on the other hand, the mean CA125 levels in recurrent cysts (347.9±204.4) was significantly higher as compared to the mean CA125 concentrations of resolved cyst (16.75±22.45).

CONCLUSION

Aspiration and sclerotherapy with alcohol and erythromycin yielded a relatively high recurrence rate in cyst with a bloody aspirate and high CA125 levels in cyst fluid.

Voltammetric studies on the potent carcinogen, 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene: Adsorptive stripping voltammetric determination in bulk aqueous forms and human urine samples and detection of DNA interaction on pencil graphite electrode

7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), is a widely studied polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon that has long been recognized as a very potent carcinogen. Initially, the electrochemical oxidation of DMBA at the glassy carbon and pencil graphite electrodes in non-aqueous media (dimethylsulphoxide with lithium perchlorate) was studied by cyclic voltammetry. DMBA was irreversibly oxidized in two steps at high positive potentials, resulting in the ill-resolved formation of a couple with a reduction and re-oxidation wave at much lower potentials. Special attention was given to the use of adsorptive stripping voltammetry together with a medium exchange procedure on disposable pencil graphite electrode in aqueous solutions over the pH range of 3.0-9.0. The response was characterized with respect to pH of the supporting electrolyte, pre-concentration time and accumulation potential. Using square-wave stripping mode, the compound yielded a well-defined voltammetric response in acetate buffer, pH 4.8 at +1.15V (vs. Ag/AgCl) (a pre-concentration step being carried out at a fixed potential of +0.60V for 360s). The process could be used to determine DMBA concentrations in the range 2-10nM, with an extremely low detection limit of 0.194nM (49.7ngL(-1)). The applicability to assay of spiked human urine samples was also illustrated. Finally, the interaction of DMBA with fish sperm double-stranded DNA based on decreasing of the oxidation signal of adenine base was studied electrochemically by using differential pulse voltammetry with a pencil graphite electrode at the surface and also in solution. The favorable signal-to-noise characteristics of biosensor resulted in low detection limit (ca. 46nM) following a 300-s interaction. These results displayed that the electrochemical DNA-based biosensor could be used for the sensitive, rapid, simple and cost effective detection of DMBA-DNA interaction.

Effect of pentoxifylline on endotoxin-induced haemostatic disturbances in rabbits

Pentoxifylline (PTX, a methylxanthine derivative) has been found to interrupt early gene activation for tumour necrosis factor, interleukin-1, interleukin-6 and tissue factor production and to improve survival from experimental sepsis. During endotoxaemia, lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) and proinflammatory cytokines trigger the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) via the tissue factor-dependent pathway of coagulation. The present study was undertaken to determine whether pentoxifylline could prevent coagulation disturbances in LPS-treated rabbits. Endotoxaemia was induced with E. coli lipopolysaccharide in New Zealand White rabbits. Forty rabbits were used and divided into four equal groups. Group 1 served as a control group; Group 2: lipopolysaccharide was injected intravenously, Group 3: pentoxifylline was injected intraperitoneally, Group 4: lipopolysaccharide and pentoxifylline were injected simultaneously. Blood samples were collected 6 h after the treatments. In rabbits with endotoxin-induced DIC, platelet count, leukocyte count, percentage of differential leukocyte values, fibrinogen level, antithrombin III (AT-III) and protein C (PC) activity were decreased. Moreover, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) were prolonged when compared to the control group. In conclusion, haemostatic disturbances associated with endotoxin-induced DIC were moderately suppressed by the administration of PTX.

[Efficacy of pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning of the suprascapular nerve in chronic shoulder pain secondary to rotator cuff rupture]

Suprascapular nerve blockade can be performed in chronic shoulder pain secondary to rotator cuff lesions, shoulder joint osteoarthritis, and adhesive capsulitis. Local anesthetics and steroids are commonly combined for the blockade. In this report, we present pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning of suprascapular nerve for persistent shoulder pain in 8 patients. 8 patients with no response to six weeks physical or medical treatment were hospitalized in our Algology Clinic for suprascapular nerve pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning. All blocks were performed in sitting position with a 22-Gauge, 100 mm "SMK" needle with 5 mm active tip and "Radionics" radiofrequency generator. Sensory stimulation at 50 Hz, 0.2 millisecond pulse width was performed and paresthesias in the shoulder joint occurred at 0.3 V. Motor stimulation at 2 Hz, 0.2 millisecond pulse width showed the contractions of the infraspinatus and supraspinatus muscles occurred at 0.4-0.5 V. Pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning was then carried out two times for 120 seconds at 2 Hz frequency and pulse width of 20 milliseconds at 42 degrees C. Patients were evaluated for pain scores and shoulder joint movements at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the procedure. Pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning of suprascapular nerve block provided pain control for at least twelve weeks and improved shoulder joint movements.

Zinc supplementation decreases total thyroid hormone concentration in small ruminants

The effect of dietary zinc (Zn) supplementation on plasma Zn and serum thyroid hormones was evaluated in healthy male Merino lambs and Angora goats. A total of 12 lambs and 12 goats were divided into two equal groups as control and Zn groups in separate experiments. The lambs and goats of the control groups were fed basal rations alone. The Zn contents of these rations prepared for lambs and goats were 40 mg/kg and 35 mg/kg in dry matter (DM), respectively. Both species of animals in the Zn groups were fed a basal ration supplemented with zinc sulphate adjusted to 250 mg Zn/kg diet in DM. The feeding trial lasted for 12 weeks in lambs and 8 weeks in goats. Blood samples were taken from the jugular vein at 4-week intervals. Both animal species in the Zn groups had higher plasma Zn values than the controls throughout the experimental period, except in the 4th week in goats. However, the levels of serum total thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) were lower in the lambs and goats of the Zn groups, except in the 4th week, as compared to those in the controls. Moreover, serum total thyroid hormone levels of the goats were higher at the 4th week than at the 8th week. Although there was a decrease in the levels of free thyroxine and triiodothyronine of both small ruminant species in the Zn groups when compared to the controls, these alterations were not statistically significant. These results may show that zinc supplementation to the diet at this dose reduces total thyroid hormone levels in small ruminants but does not yet impair the euthyroid status of the organism.

Concentrations of sulfadoxine and trimethoprim in plasma, lymph fluids and some tissues 24 h after intramuscular administration to Angora goats

This study was carried out to determine the concentrations of sulfadoxine and trimethoprim in plasma, lymph, and some tissues in goats after administration of a single recommended therapeutic dose. Five healthy, adult Angora goats were used. The drug combination, containing 200 mg sulfadoxine and 40 mg trimethoprim per millilitre, was given as a single IM injection at the recommended dose level, 15 mg/kg body weight for sulfadoxine and 3 mg/kg body weight for trimethoprim. The goats were slaughtered 24 hours after drug administration and samples were taken from liver, bone marrow, pelvic limb muscles, hepatic, thoracic duct, and the pelvic limb lymph fluids for analysis of drug concentrations by HPLC. The concentrations of trimethoprim in bone marrow, liver, pelvic limb muscles, hepatic lymph, the pelvic limb lymph, and thoracic duct lymph were found to be 6, 5, 4, 2, 5 and 15 times higher than those of plasma, respectively. Although the sulfadoxine concentrations in bone marrow, pelvic limb muscles, and liver were 2, 3 and 2 times higher than the plasma concentrations, respectively, the sulfadoxine concentrations in hepatic lymph, the pelvic limb lymph, and thoracic duct lymph were lower than those of plasma. The results show that the trimethoprim concentrations in lymph fluids were quite similar to those in tissues. However, the sulfadoxine concentrations in lymph fluids were different in each tissue.

Tubular duplication of the hindgut with genitourinary anomalies

Hindgut duplication including the colon and rectum as well as the genital and urinary organs are extremely rare. Only a few cases are noted in the medical literature. In this report, a newborn with exstrophy of the urinary bladder, double vagina and uterus, double anus, and complete duplication of rectum and colon with malrotation is presented.

The effect of steroid treatment on corrosive oesophageal burns in children

A retrospective study was done on corrosive oesophageal burns to ascertain the preventive effect of corticosteroids on stricture development. Within the last 12 years 351 children were admitted to our medical centre with a history of corrosive agent ingestion. In 235 of these the diagnosis of oesophageal burn was confirmed by means of oesophagoscopy. Children admitted within the first 48 hours received steroid, antibiotic and fluid therapy while fluid and antibiotics were given, if needed, in the rest. Forty-six of the children were lost to follow-up. The type of corrosive agent, the admission period, the degree of the burn and the stricture development were used as parameters. Stricture development was found statistically significant in late admitted patients vs. early admissions. This retrospective study suggests the effectiveness of corticosteroid treatment in preventing the stricture development.

[Time of disappearance of artificial pneumoperitoneum in children. Diagnostic value]

Postoperative pneumascos has always been interesting and provocative for surgeons because its "correct" disappearance time still remains ill-defined. Fifty-six children, for whom Golstein's intraoperative diagnostic pneumascos was carried out to demonstrate a contralateral hernia during the correction of a unilateral inguinal hernia, were followed up for disappearance of their pneumascos with abdominal radiographs taken at the 4th postoperative hour and on the 1st, 2nd, 4th and 8th days. The children were divided up into three groups: 9 children were younger than 6 months, 20 were 6 to 24 months old, and 27 were older than age 2. The intraperitoneal free air present in all subjects 4 hours after surgery has completely disappeared from the radiographs of the children younger than 6 months on the fourth day, and on the eighth day for the children aged 6 to 24 months, while a trace of subphrenic air still persisted in the 7% (2 out of 27) of children who were older than age 2. This work is aimed at establishing a correlation between the child's age and the time of disappearance of the pneumascos.

[Hydatid cysts in children]

84 cases of hydatid cysts in children are reported. Presenting sings were non-specific in more than 1/2 the children. Pulmonary localisation predominated and the chest X-ray alone gave the diagnosis in 47 cases with pulmonary cysts. Several organs were involved in 17 cases. Abdominal ultrasound was routinely performed for pulmonary presentations. CT scan was reserved for parenchymal lesions in order to quantify the exact number of cysts present. 107 procedures were performed. In the majority of cases conservative surgery was involved; endocystectomy for pulmonary cysts and partial cystectomy with capitonnage for abdominal cysts. Mebendazole treatment was not considered to be an alternative to surgical treatment and was only used in specific cases.