Mr Imaging of Chronic Alcoholism

We evaluated the brain lesions of patients with chronic alcoholism (n = 34) in comparison with age- and sex-matched controls (n = 40) by MR imaging. T1-weighted sagittal and axial images and T2-weighted axial images were obtained with a 0.5 T superconducting MR unit. Various brain measurements were then performed, and the presence of regions of abnormal signal intensity was also compared between the two groups. The brain measurements revealed significant cerebral atrophy (characterized by lateral and 3rd ventricular dilatation, and widening of the interhemispheric fissure) as well as significant cerebellar atrophy (represented by 4th ventricular dilatation) in the alcoholic group. These changes were more prominent in patients in their fifties and sixties than in those aged in the thirties and forties. Focal hypointense lesions were observed in 20.6% of the alcoholics and in 5% of the controls (p < 0.01), while focal hyperintense lesions were observed in 61.8% of the alcoholics and in 20% of the controls (p < 0.001). The severity of these MR findings correlated well with the age of the patients. These observations suggest that alcohol is an important promotor of brain aging.

Pathogenesis of calcium crystal deposition in the ligamentum flavum correlates with lumbar spinal canal stenosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the histological and immunohistochemical properties of degenerative changes and calcium crystal deposition in the lumbar ligamentum favum.

METHODS

We examined the ligamentum flavum harvested from 119 surgical cases with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis. Sections of the ligament were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray micro-analysis, and were immunostained for S-100 protein, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and CD34. The results were compared with those of ligament tissue harvested from 10 cases of lumbar disc herniation.

RESULT

The elastic fibres of the ligamentum favum showed regular, or sometimes irregular, and fragmented fibre bundles. Large areas of fibrosis with reduced elastic component and increased collagenous tissue were frequently seen in the degenerated ligaments. Calcium crystal deposits were observed in these fibrous ligaments, associated with many hypertrophic chondrocytes, and with small blood vessel formation. These chondrocytes stained positively for S-100 protein, VEGF and bFGF Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals were identified in the calcium deposit area.

CONCLUSION

We believe that rupture of elastic fibre bundles is the first change to occur in degeneration of the ligamentum favum. Calcium crystal deposition was seen within these fibrous and chondrometaplastic areas. Hypertrophic chondrocytes regulate crystal formation and tissue reconstruction by secreting cytokines.

A toxic reagent-free method for normal-phase matrix solid-phase dispersion extraction and reversed-phase liquid chromatographic determination of aldrin, dieldrin, and DDTs in animal fats

A method for the determination of aldrin, dieldrin, DDT, DDE, and DDD contamination in animal fats (beef tallow, lard, and chicken fat) without using toxic reagents is developed, that uses high-performance liquid chromatography after the sample has been prepared by matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) with acidic alumina oxide. A reversed-phase C(1)-silica column with a mobile phase of 50% (v/v) ethanol solution (in water) and a photo-diode array detector were used for the determination. Average recoveries of the target compounds (0.2-5.0 microg g(-1)) ranged from 84-98%, with coefficients of variation of <5%. The limits of quantitation were </=0.16 microg g(-1 )for AD, </=0.10 microg g(-1) for DD, </=0.06 microg g(-1) for DDT, </=0.07 microg g(-1) for DDE, and </=0.05 microg g(-1 )for DDD. No toxic reagents were used at all.

Genotoxicity of gardenia yellow and its components

Gardenia fruit (Gardenia jasminoides ELLIS) is widely used as a natural food colorant and as a traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of hepatic and inflammatory diseases. "Gardenia yellow" is a natural food colorant which is extracted by ethanol from gardenia fruit. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genotoxicity of gardenia yellow. Genotoxicity of gardenia yellow and its components, crocetin, gentiobiose (a component of crocin), geniposide and genipin (formed by hydrolysis of geniposide), was studied by Ames test, rec-assay, and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) using V79 cells. Gardenia yellow and its components were found not to be mutagenic in the Salmonella reverse mutation assay. Gardenia yellow and genipin caused damage of DNA in rec-assay. Gardenia yellow induced a significant dose-dependent increase of SCE frequency (8.6 times at 1000 microg/ml as the value for the solvent control). Only genipin induced SCEs significantly among the components of gardenia yellow. Moreover, genipin induced a significant increase of tetraploids at all doses tested (95% at 8 microg/ml). Gardenia yellow preparation was analyzed by capillary electrophoresis (CE), and geniposide was detected. However, genipin was not observed. In conclusion, we have shown that genipin possesses genotoxicity. Furthermore, there were unidentified genotoxicants in gardenia yellow.

Simplified high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of residual amprolium in edible chicken tissues

A simplified determining method for the routine monitoring of residual amprolium in edible chicken tissues (muscle and liver) is developed using a high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method with a photodiode-array detector after sample cleanup by an Ultrafree-MC/PL centrifugal ultrafiltration unit. For the HPLC determination and identification, a Mightysil RP-4 GP column and a mobile phase of an ethanol-5 mM 1-heptanesulfonic acid sodium salt solution (35:65, v/v) using an ion-pairing system with a photodiode-array detector are used. Average recoveries (spiked at 0.3-3.0 microg/g) are > 90%. The inter- and intravariabilities are 1.9-2.4%. The limits of quantitation are 0.22 microg/g for muscle and 0.25 microg/g for liver. The total time and solvent required for the analysis of one sample are < 20 min and < 2 mL of ethanol, respectively. No toxic solvents and regents are used.

Transferring and distributing profiles of p,p'-(DDT) in egg-forming tissues and eggs of laying hens following a single oral administration

Laying hens were administered orally with a single dose of p,p'-(DDT) (1 mg/kg bodyweight). The concentrations (microg/g) of DDT or its metabolites, p,p'-(DDE) and p,p'-(DDD), in the main tissues involved in egg formation (blood, liver, ovary, and oviducts) and egg yolk, collected 1 day after DDT dosing, were determined by normal-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The limits of detection were 0.04 microg/g for DDT, 0.07 microg/g for DDE and 0.06 microg/g for DDD. In extractable fats from the above tissues and egg yolk, DDT and DDE were transferred/distributed throughout the tissues and egg yolk. DDD was detected only in the liver. The findings indicate that DDT is metabolized instantaneously to DDE/ DDD in the hen's body and they are transferred rapidly into the egg-forming tissues and egg yolk. Among the four tissues and yolk fats examined, the DDT levels were high in the ovary, oviduct and egg yolk; the DDE levels were high in the liver, ovary and oviduct and lowest in the yolk (P < 0.01).

Simplified high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of residual amprolium in edible chicken tissues

A simplified determining method for the routine monitoring of residual amprolium in edible chicken tissues (muscle and liver) is developed using a high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method with a photodiode-array detector after sample cleanup by an Ultrafree-MC/PL centrifugal ultrafiltration unit. For the HPLC determination and identification, a Mightysil RP4 GP column and a mobile phase of an ethanol-5 mM 1-heptanesulfonic acid sodium salt solution (35:65, v/v) using an ion-pairing system with a photodiode-array detector are used. Average recoveries (spiked at 0.3-3.0 microg/g) are > 90%. The inter- and intravariabilities are 1.9-2.4%. The limits of quantitation are 0.22 microg/g for muscle and 0.25 microg/g for liver. The total time and solvent required for the analysis of one sample are < 20 min and < 2 mL of ethanol, respectively. No toxic solvents and regents are used.

Decreasing half-life of dieldrin in egg yolk following a single oral administration of aldrin to laying hens

Laying hens were treated orally with a single dose of aldrin (AD) 1 mg/kg body weight. Concentrations (microgram/g) of AD or its epoxide (= dieldrin, DD) in the yolk of eggs laid for 21 days after AD treatment were determined by normal-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The limits of determination were 0.02 microgram/g for AD and 0.03 microgram/g for DD, respectively. After AD treatment, although the low levels of AD (mean 0.02-0.03 microgram/g) were observed only during a three-day period (from 4th to 6th days), DD (mean 0.15 microgram/g) was found already on the 2nd day, indicating that the epoxidation of AD to DD in the hen's body is rapid. The highest level of DD (mean 0.40 microgram/g) was detected on the 6th day, and then DD levels decreased slowly and were detected up to the 21st day. In this decreasing phase, the half-life of DD in the yolk was estimated to be 25.6 days with a 95% confidence interval from 22.7 to 29.4 days.

Transfer and distribution profiles of dietary sulphonamides in the tissues of the laying hen

The five sulphonamides, sulphadiazine (SDZ), sulphadimidine (SDD), sulphamethoxazole (SMX), sulphamonomethoxine (SMM) and sulphaquinoxaline (SQ), were fed to laying hens at a dietary concentration of 100 mg kg(-1), respectively. On the 7th day after the start of feeding, the drug concentrations in the plasma, muscle and the main tissues involved in egg formation, the liver, and ovary and oviducts (magnum and isthmus plus shell grand) were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Dietary sulphonamides were distributed throughout the above tissues. SQ was found at the highest concentration in all tissues, while the reverse was true for SDD. The ratio of SDD concentrations in the main tissues involved in egg formation to that in the plasma were greater than those for the other drugs.

In vitro hepatic biotransformation of aldrin and dieldrin in food-producing animals

The hepatic biotransformation of aldrin (AD) and dieldrin (DD) was studied in liver post-mitochondrial supernatants (S-9s) from laying hens, female cattle and swine. S-9s were incubated with 0.03 nmol of AD or DD for 1 h. After 1 h, AD in the samples was almost epoxidated to DD. This formation was found with all the animal S-9s, and the highest rates occurred in pig S-9 (P < 0.01), followed by cow and hen S-9s. No reduction of DD was found with any of the S-9s.

Matrix solid-phase dispersion extraction and high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of residual sulfonamides in chicken

Simultaneous determination of the six sulfonamides (SAs) sulfadiazine, sulfadimidine, sulfamonomethoxine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfadimethoxine and sulfaquinoxaline in chicken using matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) with neutral aluminium oxide as an MSPD sorbent and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is presented. In the present MSPD, six SAs could be isolated by only one step, elution with a 70% (v/v) aqueous ethanol solution, without the sorbent conditioning and the sorbent-tissue matrix washing. For the HPLC determination, a LiChrospher 100 RP-8 and a mixture of 1% acetic acid solution (pH 3.0, in water)-acetonitrile-N,N-dimethylformamide (78:22:5, v/v/v) as the mobile phase with a photodiode array detector were used. Average recoveries were greater than 87.6% with relative standard deviations between 0.5 and 8.6%. The total time and amount of solvent required for the analysis of one sample were <1.5 h and <12 ml, respectively.

High-performance liquid chromatographic procedure for routine residue monitoring of seven sulfonamides in milk

A simplified method for routine monitoring of 7 residual sulfonamides (SAs) (sulfadiazine (SDZ), sulfamerazine (SMR), sulfadimidine (SDD), sulfamonomethoxine (SMM), sulfamethoxazole (SMX), sulfadimethoxine (SDM), and sulfaquinoxaline (SQ)) in milk using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a photodiode array detector is described. The spiked and blank samples were cleaned up by using an Ultrafree-MC/PL centrifugal ultrafiltration unit. For determination/identification, a Mightysil RP-4 GP column and a mobile phase of 25% (v/v) ethanol in water with a photodiode array detector were used. Average recoveries from milk samples spiked with 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 microg mL(-1) of each drug were >82%. The inter- and intra-assay variabilities were 2.0-3.1%. The practical detection limits for 7 SAs were 0.005-0.02 microg mL(-1). The total time and amount of solvent required for the analysis of one sample were <40 min and <6 mL of ethanol, respectively. No toxic solvents were used.

Transference of dietary veterinary drugs into eggs

Twelve veterinary drugs, bacitracin (BC), chloramphenicol (CAP), chlortetracycline (CTC), oxytetracycline (OTC), tylosin (TS), amprolium (APL), furazolidone (FZD), nicarbazine (NCZ), ormetoprium (OMP), sulfadimidine (SDD), sulfadimethoxine (SDM) and sulfamonomethoxine (SMM) were fed to laying hens for 14 days, each at a dietary concentration of 500 mg/kg. The concentrations of the drugs in the eggs from these birds were determined at 2-day intervals for 14 days after the start of feeding. The relationship between the concentrations of the drugs (mg/kg) in the eggs and the number of days after the start of feeding was analysed by regression and covariance analyses. The concentrations of the drugs in the eggs became constant after 4 days for OTC, TS, FZD and all the sulfonamides, and after 6 days for CAP, APL, NCZ and OMP. No BC or CTC was detected in the eggs. The transfer rates of the 10 drugs (excluding BC and CTC) from the feed to eggs varied from 0.005% for TS up to 1.540% for SDD.

Hepatic biotransformation profiles of sulphamonomethoxine in food-producing animals and rats in vitro

Hydroxylation and acetylation of sulphamonomethoxine (SMM) and deacetylation of N4-acetyl SMM (N4-AcSMM) were estimated in liver post-mitochondrial supernatants (S-9) from laying hens, female cattle, swine and rats. The formation of hydroxylated SMM, 2,6-dihydroxy SMM (2,6-diOH-SMM), was found only with hen S-9s. N4-acetylation rate of SMM was the highest in pig S-9s, followed by rat, then hen or cow S-9s. All S-9s from the four species deacetylated N4-AcSMM. In hen S-9s, the rate of 2,6-dihydroxylation was higher during incubation at 41 degrees C than at 37 degrees C.

Determining the procedure for routine residue monitoring of sulfamethazine in edible animal tissues

A simplified method to determine/identify residual sulfamethazine (SMZ) in edible tissues from cattle, pigs, chickens and sheep by a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a photo-diode array detector is presented. The sample preparation was performed by homogenizing with 30% (v/v) ethanol in water followed by an Ultrafree-MC/PL as a centrifugal ultra-filtration unit. For determination/identification of SMZ, a reversed-phase C(4) column and a mobile phase of 15% (v/v) ethanol in water with a photo-diode array detector was used. Average recoveries from spiked SMZ (0.1-1.0 mg kg(-1)) were >or=80% with coefficients of variation between 1.3 and 4.3%. The limits of quantitation were calculated to be 0.057-0.060 mg kg(-1). The total time and solvent required for the analysis of one sample were <40 min and <2 mL of ethanol, respectively.

Herniation of cervical intervertebral disc: immunohistochemical examination and measurement of nitric oxide production

STUDY DESIGN

Surgically obtained cervical herniated intervertebral discs were examined histologically and immunohistochemically. The production of nitric oxide (NO) in the local tissue was examined using the electron spin resonance (ESR) method.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the local histologic and immunohistochemical changes in cervical disc herniation, including NO production, and to compare such changes with those in autopsy cases.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Very little is known about the histopathologic processes of cervical disc herniation. In addition, no information is available on the level of in vivo NO production in cervical disc herniation.

METHODS

Thirty-six herniated cervical discs obtained from 31 patients were immunohistochemically examined for localization of blood vessels, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, and inducible NO synthetase (iNOS). We also compared the production of NO, measured by the ESR method, in eight specimens with that of five control discs obtained from fresh cadavers.

RESULTS

The presence of herniated discs correlated with the degeneration of cartilaginous endplate and torn anulus fibrosus. Formation of new blood vessels around the herniated discs was detected, using von Willebrand factor antibody, in seven uncontained hernias and 20 contained hernias. Immunohistochemical studies showed the presence of cells positive for MMP-3 (chondrocytes), iNOS (chondrocytes and granulation tissue) in cervical disc hernias. ESR analysis showed a significantly higher NO production in herniated cervical discs than in disc samples of fresh cadavers.

CONCLUSIONS

Herniated cervical intervertebral disc is characterized by the presence of an inflammatory process associated with neovascularization and increased expression of MMP-3. Production of NO was markedly high in both contained- and uncontained-type hernias.

Normal-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Determination and Identification of Aldrin, Dieldrin, and DDTs in Eggs

A method for the routine monitoring of residual aldrin, dieldrin, pp'-DDT, op'-DDT, pp'-DDE, and pp'-DDD in eggs by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a photo-diode array (PDA) detector is described. The lipids extracted from a whole egg are cleaned by a solid-phase extraction (SPE) ISOLUTE NH2 column with a diethyl ether-hexane (5:95, v/v) eluent. The HPLC separation is carried out using a normal-phase (LiChrosorb NH2) column, a heptane-hexane eluent (97:3, v/v), and a PDA detector. The average recoveries from fortified target compounds (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 microg/g, respectively) are > or = 83%, with standard deviations (SDs) between 2 and 5%. The interassay variabilities and their SDs are < or = 4.8% and < or =0.7%, with intra-assay variabilities of 2.1-3.3%. The limits of determination for these compounds range from 0.04 to 0.08 microg/g.

In vitro hepatobiotransformation of sulphadimethoxine in laying hens

The biotransformation of sulphadimethoxine (SDM) was estimated in liver post-mitochondrial supernatants (S-9) from laying hens. The pathway and activity for hen S-9 were compared with those for cow and pig S-9. The formation of the hydroxylation of SDM, 6-hydroxy SDM (6-OH-SDM), was found only with hen S-9. The N4-acetylating activity of SDM in hen S-9 was lower than in cow and pig S-9. All S-9 from the three species de-acetylated N4-acetyl SDM (N4-AcSDM). With respect to the hydroxylation and N4-acetylation rates in hen S-9, the values incubated at 41 degrees C were higher than those at 37 degrees C (P < 0.01).

Binding profile of spiramycin to oviducal proteins of laying hens

In vitro protein binding of spiramycin (SP) in the plasma and oviducts of laying hens was studied. The data for SP were compared with those for oxytetracycline (OTC), sulphadimidine (SDD), sulphamonomethoxine (SMM) and sulphaquinoxaline (SQ). The two oviduct segments, magnum (M) and isthmus plus shell gland (IS), were collected. The soluble (cell sap) fractions from the magnum (M-S9) and the isthmus plus shell gland (IS-S9) were used as samples. Plasma protein binding was highest for SQ (81.4%) (P < 0.01), and lowest for SDD (30.9%) (P < 0.01). No M-S9 protein binding of OTC was found. The IS-S9 protein binding of SP (60.4%) was very much higher than those of OTC (0.8%), SDD (4.1%), SMM (4.0%) and SQ (12.3%) (P < 0.01). Biological half-lives of these drugs in egg albumen were directly correlated to the extent of their binding to IS proteins. Of plasma, M-S9 and IS-S9, variation in SP concentration in the ranges from 1 to 20 micrograms/ml did not alter the binding properties of the drug.

Simplified determining procedure for routine residue monitoring of sulphamethazine and sulphadimethoxine in milk

A simplified determining/identifying method for residual sulphamethazine (SMZ) and sulphadimethoxine (SDM) in milk by using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a photo-diode array detector was presented. Both sulphonamides in cow's milk samples were extracted by only stirring with ethanol followed by an Ultrafree-MC/Biomax as a centrifugal ultra-filtration unit. For determination/identification of SMZ and SDM, a Mightysil RP-18 GP Aqua column and a mobile phase of 25% (v/v) ethanol solution (in water) with a photo-diode array detector was used. Average recoveries from spiked SMZ and SDM (10-1000 ng/ml each drug) were > or = 83% with the relative standard deviations between 1.4 and 3.7%. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) were calculated to be 5 ng/ml for SMZ and 10 ng/ml for SDM, respectively. The values were below the MRL/tolerance (SMZ, 25 ng/ml; SDM, 10 ng/ml). The total time and solvent required for the analysis of one sample were <35 min and <2 ml of only ethanol, respectively. No toxic solvents were used. The developed procedure was harmless to the human and environment.

Rapid liquid chromatographic determination of residual penicillin G in milk

A simple and rapid high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method for determination of residual penicillin G (benzylpenicillin, PCG) in milk was developed. The sample preparation was performed by stirring with ethanol and reacting with 5 M 1,2,4-triazole-mercury (II) chloride solution at 65 degrees C for 10 min followed by an ultra centrifugation step. The HPLC separation was carried out using a Mightysil RP-4GP column, a mobile phase of acetonitrile and 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) (35:65, v/v) and a photo-diode array detector. The average recoveries from spiked PCG (0.004, 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 microgram/mL) were above 86% with coefficients of variation between 1.2 and 4.5%. The limit of detection was 0.004 microgram/mL. This value corresponds to the maximum residue limit (MRL) in milk (0.004 microgram/mL, EU and Japan). The total time required for the analysis of one sample was below 40 min.

Polluting profiles of dieldrin and DDTs in laying hens of Osaka, Japan

Contaminating/accumulating levels of organochlorine pesticides in extractable fats from a basal diet, eggs and seven tissues (adipose tissue, blood, kidney, liver, muscle, ovary and oviduct) and excreta of laying hens that were kept in a general poultry farm of Japan were examined. No benzene hexachlorides or aldrin was detected [< 1 part per billion (p.p.b.)] overall. Dieldrin and all DDTs (p,p'-DDE, o,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDD and p,p'-DDT) were contaminated in the dietary fats (mean range 10-70 p.p.b.). Although dieldrin (4-58 p.p.b.), p,p'-DDE (65-196 p.p.b.) and p,p'-DDT (30-73 p.p.b.) were found to be accumulated in all the tissue fats and egg yolk fats, they were not detected in the dried excreta. Accumulations of o,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDD were found only in the liver fat (92 p.p.b.) and in the kidney fat (27 p.p.b.), respectively. In all the samples, p,p'-DDE levels were highest in comparison with the other compounds. For all organochlorine pesticides detected, the accumulated levels were well below the practical residue limits.

Spontaneous remission of a solitary intraspinal synovial cyst of the lumbar spine

We report on a 15-year-old boy in whom a spontaneous remission of a symptomatic synovial cyst, possibly emanating from the L4-5 facet joint, was noted. The medical history suggested that sport-related overactivity and/or minor trauma was the underlying cause. Conservative treatment for several months may be one treatment option if the cyst wall is not calcified and the symptoms and signs related to radiculopathy show a gradual decrease.

Spiramycin, oxytetracycline and sulphamonomethoxine contents of eggs and egg-forming tissues of laying hens

Spiramycin (SP), oxytetracycline (OTC) or sulphamonomethoxine (SMM) was fed to laying hens at a dietary level of 400 p.p.m. for 7 successive days. After 7 days of medicated feed, the concentrations of SP, OTC and SMM were determined in the blood, liver, ovary, oviducts (magnum and isthmus plus shell gland) and eggs (albumen and yolk) by high-performance liquid chromatography. Of the three drugs, OTC showed the lowest content in the above tissues and eggs, while the reverse was true for SMM. Low concentrations of SP were measured in the blood, whereas contents in the liver and the oviducts were relatively much higher.

Potential usefulness of 18F-2-fluoro-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography in cervical compressive myelopathy

STUDY DESIGN

This case study describes the usefulness of high-resolution 18F-2-fluoro-deoxy-D-glucose (18FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) for metabolic neuroimaging of the cervical spinal cord in patients with compressive myelopathy.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether 18FDG-PET imaging could visualize deterioration of cervical spinal cord function associated with a variable degree of compression and to determine its potential usefulness during assessment of myelopathy.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

A few studies have described the use of 18FDG-PET imaging in cervical cord diseases, but visualization of the cervical spinal cord before and after surgical decompression for compressive myelopathy has not been reported. The potential usefulness of 18FDG-PET imaging for assessment of the function of compressed cervical cord has not been discussed previously.

METHODS

An 18FDG-PET scan was performed before and after surgery in seven patients with cervical compressive myelopathy. The correlation between the metabolic rate of glucose of the cervical spinal cord and neurologic scores was evaluated. The metabolic rate of glucose in different vertebral levels was also measured.

RESULTS

Preoperative metabolic rate of glucose was high in two patients but low in the other five. At the time of the second postoperative examination, metabolic rate of glucose was higher in six of the seven patients, and the increase was associated with neurologic improvement. Use of 18FDG was not related to changes in signal intensities on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images. The metabolic rate of glucose decreased at the affected vertebral level in four patients, increased in two, and did not change in one, relative to the unaffected levels.

CONCLUSIONS

High-resolution 18FDG-PET neuroimaging may provide clinically useful qualitative and quantitative estimation of impaired metabolic activity of the compromised cervical spinal cord in compressive myelopathy. 18FDG-PET images may also offer additional information related to neuronal dysfunction induced by mechanical compression.

Rapid and simple determination of oxytetracycline in chicken products

A rapid and simple method for determining residual oxytetracycline (OTC) in chicken products (muscle, liver, and eggs) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was developed. Samples were prepared by homogenization with acetonitrile-n-hexane (5 + 4, v/v) followed by centrifugation to minimize fat and protein contents. OTC in the acetonitrile layer was free from interfering compounds when examined by HPLC using a LiChrospher 100 RP-8 end-capped column, a mobile phase of acetonitrile-acetic acid-0.01 M disodium EDTA (28 + 2 + 70, v/v/v), and a photodiode array detector. Average recoveries from samples spiked with OTC (0.1, 0.2, and 1.0 ppm) were > 88%, with coefficients of variation between 2.3 and 5.1%. The limit of detection was 0.05 ppm.

Rapid liquid chromatographic determination of oxytetracycline in milk

A simple method for the determination of residual oxytetracycline (OTC) in milk by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was developed. The sample preparation could be made without complex extraction and clean-up procedures. A LiChrospher 100 RP-8 end-capped column and a mobile phase of acetonitrile-acetic acid-water (28:4:68, v/v/v) with a photo-diode array detector was used. The average recoveries from spiked OTC (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 microgram/ml) were in excess of 89.8% with coefficients of variation between 0.6 and 4.1%. The limit of detection was 0.05 microgram/ml. The total time required for the analysis of one sample was below 10 min.

Elimination half-lives of sulphadimethoxine and its N4-acetyl metabolite in tissues of laying hens

The depletion rates of sulphadimethoxine (SDM) and its metabolite N4-acetylsulphadimethoxine (N4-AcSDM) were estimated in blood and various tissues of laying hens. The tissue contents (ppm) of SDM and N4-AcSDM after the withdrawal of SDM, which was fed to hens at 400 ppm diet for 5 successive days, were determined by HPLC. The elimination half-life (t1/2) of N4-AcSDM in the liver, ovary and muscle was estimated to be 4.3 h with a 95% confidence interval from 3.6 to 5.3 h. No significant difference between t1/2 of N4-AcSDM in the tissues and that of SDM (4.4 h) in the blood, kidney, muscle, ovary and adipose tissue was observed. On the other hand, the t1/2 of N4-AcSDM in the kidney (8.1 h) was significantly longer than that in the above 3 tissues.

Simple and rapid extraction method of total egg lipids for determining organochlorine pesticides in the egg

A simple and rapid extraction method of total egg lipids for determination of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the egg was developed. After being mixed with anhydrous sodium sulphate, the extraction of lipids in egg yolk was performed using n-hexane-acetonitrile (2:1, v/v). Troublesome emulsions did not occur. Using the present method, an average of 3.03 g of egg lipids was collected from 10 g of egg yolk. Compared with classical methods, the present method is handy; needs much shorter analysis time and less requirement of solvents and has higher efficiency of egg lipid extraction and higher recoveries of OCPs.

Tissue concentrations of sulphaquinoxaline administered in the food of laying hens

1. Sulphaquinoxaline (SQ) was fed to laying hens at a dietary level of 400 mg/kg for 3 successive days. SQ contents (mg/kg) in the blood, kidney, liver, ovary, muscle (thigh) and adipose tissue collected on 1, 2, and 3 d after the start of feeding were determined by HPLC. The relationship between the SQ content in the tissues and times (d) of SQ feeding was analyzed statistically. 2. Dietary SQ was distributed throughout the whole body. 3. Contents in tissues, except the kidney, had already reached a plateau by day 1 after the start of administration whereas in the kidney it increased linearly throughout the 3 days. 4. The plateau values of SQ in the tissues were much greater than those of sulphamonomethoxine and sulphadimethoxine.

Histological investigation of spinal cord lesions in the spinal hyperostotic mouse (twy/twy): morphological changes in anterior horn cells and immunoreactivity to neurotropic factors

We examined the morphology of spinal accessory motoneurons and immunoreactivity to neurotrophins, brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin (NT)-3, as well as the presence of reactive astrocytosis in 70 tiptoe walking Yoshimura (twy) mice that develop calcification at C1-C2 vertebral level compressing the spinal cord. At the level of compression, the area of neuronal soma and total length of dendrites of wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase (WGA-HRP)-labelled accessory motoneurons in the medial cell pool decreased significantly with decrement in motoneuron population, relative to the control. In contrast, at sites rostral to the compressive lesion, a significant enlargement of the neuron soma and dendritic elongation were noted, associated with increased motoneuron population and decreased transverse area of the cord at the level of compression. At this site, enhanced BDNF and NT-3 immunoreactivities were evident in the anterior horn cells. In mice with a more severe degree of compression, astrocyte-like cells showing BDNF immunoreactivity became abundant and axons in the anterior column demonstrated a marked NT-3 immunoreactivity. Our results suggest increased functional activity of anterior horn cells at levels rostra] to the site of compression. We speculate that the presence of BDNF and NT-3 in neurons and astrocyte-like cells is proportionate to the severity of chronic mechanical compression and may contribute to the heterotropic neuronal reserve and survival.

Mutagenicity and DNA-damaging activity of decomposed products of food colours under UV irradiation

Five synthetic food colours Food Red Nos 3, 40 and 102 and Food Blue Nos 1 and 2, and their UV irradiated products were tested for mutagenic activity by means of the Ames test using Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100. Food colours were irradiated with UV light for 14 days. Food Red Nos 3, 40 and 102 and Food Blue No. 1 were non-mutagenic before and after irradiation. UV irradiated products of Food Blue No. 2 were mutagenic in TA98 with or without S-9 mix. The mutagenic activity increased with increasing irradiation period, reached maximum potency on day 6, and then decreased. Moreover, Food Blue No. 2 showed DNA-damaging activity after 14 days of irradiation in rec-assay using Bacillus subtilis strains H17 and M45. The capillary electrophoresis was applied for the analysis of UV irradiated products of Food Blue No. 2. The original peak of Food Blue No. 2 was decomposed into seven peaks after UV irradiation.

Gel permeation and florisil chromatographic cleanup and gas chromatographic determination of organochlorine pesticides in eggs

Cleanup of residual organochlorine pesticides (OCPs; alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-BHC; aldrin; dieldrin; p, p'-DDE; o,p'-DDT; p,p'-DDD; and p,p'-DDT) in eggs by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Florisil minicolumn chromatography is described. Ten OCPs in purified extract are determined by gas chromatography with electron capture detection. The lipids extracted from whole egg are cleaned up first by GPC with an Envirogel column and an ethyl acetate-cychlohexane (1 + 1, v/v) mobile phase and then by Florisil minicolumn chromatography with 15% (v/v) diethyl ether-hexane eluant. Cleanup is highly efficient. Average recoveries of 10 spiked OCPs (0.0025-0.0125 ppm) ranged from 81 to 101%, with coefficients of variation between 1 and 14%. The detection limit was 0.001 ppm for the 10 OCPs.

Novobiocin inhibits both UDP-glucuronosyltransferase and cytochrome P450-mediated enzyme activities in pig liver microsomes

The effects of novobiocin (range 0.0125-2 mmol/L) on the hydroxylation of testosterone, the N-demethylation of erythromycin, and the glucuronidation of alpha-naphthol and paracetamol were studied using pig hepatic microsomes, pooled from five animals. The final concentrations of these substrates in the incubation mixtures were selected to meet Vmax conditions. Novobiocin caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of the glucuronidation of paracetamol; the formation of alpha-naphthol-glucuronide was reduced to a lesser degree. These results confirm and extend earlier findings in laboratory animal species that novobiocin inhibits UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UDPGTs). Moreover, novobiocin strongly inhibited 6 beta-hydroxylation of testosterone. The microsomal N-demethylation of erythromycin and hydroxylation of testosterone at the 15 alpha position were less affected by novobiocin. These results suggest that novobiocin inhibits not only UDPGTs, but also cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activities, probably those belonging to the CYP3A subfamily. More research is needed to reveal which CYPs and UDPGTs are affected by novobiocin in vivo, in order to improve the understanding the probably the predictability of potential drug interactions with this antibiotic.

Dumb-bell shaped tuberculous abscess across the greater sciatic notch compressing both sciatic nerves

We report an instructive case of a 65-year-old man who presented with a dumb-bell shaped tuberculous abscess across the greater sciatic notch bilaterally compressing both sciatic nerves. Clinical symptoms progressed slowly and mimicked lumbar radiculopathy, thus delaying an accurate diagnosis. Anterolateral retroperitoneal and posterolateral gluteal approaches of the greater sciatic notch as well as the acetabulum on both sides were followed in order to provide safe viewing and resection of the abscess. The abscess wall was adherent to the sciatic nerve and surrounding blood vessels. The symptoms completely disappeared after resection of the abscess.

Solitary plasmacytoma of the spine associated with neurological complications

We report eight patients with a solitary plasmacytoma of the spine associated with neurological complications. The patients included five men and three women with an average age at presentation of 59 years (range, 47 to 73 years). The tumour was confined to the thoracic spine in six cases, cervical spine in one and lumbar spine in one. Duration of symptoms ranged from 2.5 to 22 months. Treatment consisted of a combination of radiotherapy, melphalan and surgery. One patient progressed to multiple myeloma 7 years after surgery. Surgical treatment (anterior surgery in three cases and posterior surgery in five) produced neurological improvement in all patients. We stress the importance of an early diagnosis followed by appropriate treatment including surgery for this clinical entity and long-term follow-up to detect a disseminated disease.

Absorbability of sulphamonomethoxine and sulphadimethoxine administered via food of laying hens

Sulphamonomethoxine (SMM) or sulphadimethoxine (SDM) were fed each to four laying hens at a dietary content of 400 p.p.m. 1000 p.p.m. of chromic oxide were supplemented to the experimental diets as an indicator for the absorbability in the gastrointestinal tract. SMM and SDM contents (p.p.m.) in the large intestine, determined 16 h after the start of feeding, were measured by HPLC. Average amounts of SMM and SDM in the dry matter of the large intestine were 12.3 and 30.2 p.p.m., respectively. The absorption ratios of SMM and SDM administered via the food were calculated to be 96.9 and 92.5%, respectively.

Cervical myeloradiculopathy with entrapment neuropathy: a study based on the double-crush concept

In an attempt to formulate a standardised approach to the diagnosis and management of patients with the double-crush syndrome, we reviewed 65 surgical cases (39 men and 26 women) with cervical myeloradiculopathy associated with entrapment neuropathy in the arm by examining the clinical features, results of nerve conduction velocity studies and distribution of the vertebral levels of compression. Fifty-three patients (average age, 43 years) presented with a carpal tunnel syndrome at the wrist and cervical lesions (41 with spondylosis and 12 with ossified posterior longitudinal ligament), while 12 had a cubital tunnel syndrome at the elbow with cervical lesions (eight with spondylosis and four with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament). In the former group, the lesions were found mostly at C5-6 and C6-7 levels, while in the latter group involvement of C6-7 was frequently observed. Two patients in each group required additional cervical decompression after carpal or cubital tunnel release. A retrospective review of our patients suggested that it is reasonable to pursue an accurate diagnosis followed by treatment based on individual neurological and electrophysiological findings, but taking into consideration the significant level of physical impairment associated with cord compromise, we believe that it may be reasonable to perform a cervical decompression rather than peripheral nerve release in such cases. Our findings suggest that one should be aware of a double-crush during examination of patients complaining of neck and hand problems.