ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries are the most common causes of traumatic injury-related death. Grading the severity of traumatic brain injury is an early step in management. Spinal trauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among young adults worldwide. This work aimed to assess the patterns, manners, and outcomes of neurological injuries and related medico-legal issues among victims.METHODS: The current study was conducted on 285 adult participants of both sexes who came to Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital with neurological injuries from the 1st of August 2024 to the end of February 2025. Patient demographic data, manner, mode, pattern of injury, and outcome upon discharge were analyzed. Results: The most vulnerable age group was 18-30 years. Males outnumbered females at a ratio of 3:1. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) were the most common cause of injuries (40.7%). Intracranial injuries represented the most prevalent type of injury (43.5%). Depressed fractures were the most common type (37.8%), and the temporal bones were the most common site affected (36.9%). Extradural hemorrhage was the most common type of intracranial injury (59.1%), whereas lumbar injuries were the most prevalent type of spinal fracture (46%). The mortality rate in the patients studied was 0.7%.CONCLUSION: Traumatic neurological injuries were common in male patients. The most common cause of trauma was RTAs. Intracranial injuries were the most common type of injury. Most patients presented with mild symptoms.KEYWORDS:Causes, Manners, Severity, Outcomes, and Traumatic CNS Injuries.
Background: Anthropometric variation of the distal femur has important implications for total knee arthroplasty (TKA), forensic identification, and estimation of femoral length from fragmentary remains. Population-specific data are essential to improve prosthesis design and support osteometric estimation. Objectives: To analyze distal femur anthropometry in an Egyptian population, assess sexual dimorphism, and determine correlations between distal femoral parameters and femoral length.Methodology: This cross-sectional osteometric study was conducted on 108 adult dry femora 54 male and 54 female bones. Measurements included maximum femoral length, Q angle, medial and lateral femoral condyle maximum anteroposterior diameters, total femoral condylar mediolateral breadth at the transepicondylar plane, medial and lateral condyle mediolateral breadths, intercondylar mediolateral breadth, and intercondylar anteroposterior dimension. Measurements were obtained using a vernier caliper, osteometric board, and goniometer. Sex differences were evaluated and correlations between distal femoral parameters and femoral length were assessed.Results: Males had bigger dimensions than females in all the examined parameters, which indicated statistically significant sexual dimorphism (P< 0.001). Males had an average maximum femoral length of 45.35 ± 2.63 cm, while females had an average of 40.80 ± 2.17 cm. The strongest correlations with maximum femoral length were observed for lateral condyle maximum AP diameter (r = 0.874), medial condyle maximum AP diameter (r = 0.872), and intercondylar AP dimension (r = 0.827).Conclusions: Distal femur anthropometry in this Egyptian sample demonstrates marked sexual dimorphism and provides useful predictors for estimating maximum femoral length. These data are relevant to forensic identification and support the need for population-specific information for femoral component design in TKA.
Background: Polyvinyl chloride microplastics can enter the human body through ingestion and injection, with a tendency to bio-accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract of mammals. Due to the vulnerability of the gut to Polyvinyl chloride microplastics exposure and the limited reports on their direct effects on stomach and intestinal structures, further histological investigation is necessary. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the histologic effects of Polyvinyl chloride microplastics on selected regions of the gastrointestinal tract in adult Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty adult Wistar rats were divided into five groups (A, B, C, D, and E), with four animals in each group. Group A served as the normal control and received distilled water only. Group B served as the negative control and received 0.1 mg/kg of cyclohexanone. Groups C, D, and E received 0.1 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg, and 0.3 mg/kg of Polyvinyl chloride microplastics, respectively. Results: Histological findings showed significant alterations in the gastrointestinal tissues, including cystic dilation of the gastric glands, ulcerative features, and atrophy of intestinal villi in the treated groups compared to the control. Conclusion: Polyvinyl chloride microplastics exposure caused notable histological damage in selected regions of the gastrointestinal tract of adult Wistar rats, indicating that Polyvinyl chloride microplastics may adversely affect gut structure and function following exposure.
Background: Sexual violence is a global challenge. Regular studies are necessary to understand it better and monitor changes in its prevalence and patterns, or whether these remain constant over time. Objective: To determine the prevalence, patterns, and medicolegal findings of sexual assault cases presented to the Violence Against Women and Children Clinic at the Egyptian Forensic Medicine Authority in Cairo during 2024. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted of all alleged sexual assault case files (n=405) referred during 2024. Results: Victims ranged in age from 2 to 64 years (median 15 years), with females comprising 71.9% of cases. Adolescents represented the most affected age group. The majority of cases involved a single suspect (92.8%), and acquaintances were the most common perpetrators (79.5%). Intrafamilial abuse occurred in 9.9% of cases, with fathers constituting half of these. Most victims (61.2%) presented more than one week after assault, with only 18.3% examined within three days. Hymenal tears were identified in 33.3% of females, predominantly at the 6 o'clock position (47.4%), and most were old (76.3%). Anal injuries were documented in 6.9% of cases, with contusions being most frequent. Extragenital injuries were observed in 9.9%, primarily involving the upper limbs. Genital swabs were collected in 35.1% of cases, with positive DNA results in 14.1% of samples collected. Clothing and items yielded positive findings in 62.0% of examined cases. Conclusion: Sexual assault in Greater Cairo predominantly affects adolescent females, with delayed presentation and low evidence recovery rates. These findings underscore the need for targeted prevention, timely examination, and enhanced forensic protocols.
ABSTRACTAbstractBackground: The rising global prevalence of illicit drug use has intensified the need for analytical methods that are both effective and environmentally responsible. Conventional techniques such as gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) remain standard in forensic toxicology but involve high solvent consumption, hazardous waste, and energy-intensive procedures.Objective: This review critically examines recent advances in green analytical chemistry (GAC) for the detection and quantification of drugs of abuse. It highlights methodologies that minimize environmental impact while maintaining analytical performance, and identifies current challenges and limitations in their forensic application.Methods: Key “green” alternatives are reviewed, including Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC), Solid-Phase Micro-extraction (SPME), and Liquid-Liquid Micro-extraction (LLME), with a focus on reduced solvent usage, faster analysis times, and high sensitivity. The application of two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (2D-GC-MS) for the analysis of complex drug mixtures in seizure samples is also discussed, emphasizing its role in improving separation efficiency and reducing sample preparation.Critical Insights: Green methods can significantly decrease environmental and health risks associated with forensic analyses, but trade-offs remain in terms of sensitivity, reproducibility, and method standardization. Balancing these factors is essential to achieve sustainable yet reliable toxicological results.Conclusion: Integrating GAC principles into forensic workflows provides a practical pathway toward sustainable drug analysis, supporting the “One Health” approach by safeguarding analytical integrity, environmental safety, and public health simultaneously.Keywords: Green Analytical Chemistry; Drugs of Abuse; Forensic Toxicology; Sustainability; Micro-extraction
AbstractBackground: Early pubertal onset is increasingly reported worldwide and has been linked to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Recently, concerns were raised in Egypt regarding excessive lead and benzoic acid exposure through environmental and dietary pathways and its negative consequences. Objectives: The study aimed at assessing urinary lead and benzoic acid levels in Egyptian girls and evaluating their association with precocious puberty and related socio-demographic and exposure factors. Methodology: An exploratory analytical cross-sectional human biomonitoring study was conducted including fifty girls recruited from Abu Elreesh Paediatric Endocrinology Unit and National Research Centre Paediatrics Clinic. Clinical evaluation, anthropometry, detailed exposure questionnaire and urinary biomonitoring of lead and benzoic acid were performed. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed between girls with precocious puberty ̶ urinary lead (3.1 ± 1.5 µg/L) and benzoic acid (1.6 ± 0.8 ppm) ̶ compared to healthy ones ̶ (Lead: 0.11 ± 0.04 µg/L; benzoic acid: 0.04 ± 0.06 ppm; p<0.001). Additionally, Socioeconomic and anthropometric factors, including obesity and lower socioeconomic status, were also linked to earlier pubertal development. Urinary lead and benzoic acid concentrations were strongly and inversely correlated with age at pubertal onset. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that exposure to environmental contaminants -as lead and benzoic acid - may function as endocrine disruptors in children being significantly associated with precocious puberty, particularly in socioeconomically vulnerable settings. Findings highlight the need for public health interventions for environmental health surveillance and regulation of food preservatives and lead sources.
Background: Gunshot residue (GSR) has been used historically to distinguish between the entry and exit points of gunshot wounds. It has been broadly accepted in the forensic science community that entry wounds will have a presence of GSR, but exit wounds will not. However, this is no longer the case in the rapidly advancing field of forensics. Several real-world scenarios and laboratory experiments have demonstrated that GSR can be detected in exit wounds of gunshot victims. There is currently a need to re-evaluate the identification and determination of entry and exit wounds. Methodology-This case study discusses a fatal gunshot wound in an 8-year-old boy who was shot at close range by a .32 MK III revolver. Result- Gunshot residue was found at both the entry and exit points of the wound using a sodium rhodizonate test. Conclusion-It signifies that not only the presence of GSR but also the quantitative analysis of GSR plays a vital role in differentiating between the entry and exit wounds of a firearm.
ABSTRACTBackground: Acute pesticide poisoning (APP) is a major cause of illness and death around the world. Identifying high-risk patients quickly with available prognostic markers is crucial for improving outcomes. Objective: To assess the prognostic value of selected blood markers in patients with acute pesticide poisoning. Methodology: This cross-sectional, prospective study involved 223 patients with acute pesticide poisoning (APP) admitted to the Menoufia Poison Control Center (MPCC) from January to December 2023. Clinical assessments and Poisoning Severity Score (PSS) classifications were done upon admission. We analyzed the results of various blood parameters obtained from complete blood picture investigation, including white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophils, lymphocytes, red cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). Outcomes were divided into survivors and non-survivors. We used non-parametric tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for statistical evaluation. Results: 73.5% of patients needed ICU admission, with a mortality rate of 55.6%. Non-survivors showed significantly higher levels of white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils, neutrophil / lymphocytic ratio (NLR), platelet / lymphocytic ratio (PLR), and red cell distribution width (RDW), while lymphocyte counts were lower (p < 0.001). These parameters increased significantly with the severity of poisoning: Neutrophils (AUC = 0.974), NLR (AUC = 0.973), RDW (AUC = 0.925), and WBC (AUC = 0.917). These indices showed excellent predictive ability for severity and mortality. Conclusion: The values of hematological indices (WBC, neutrophils, and lymphocytes, RDW, NLR, and PLR) analyzed from the complete blood picture are straightforward, cost-effective, and strong predictors of severity and mortality in acute pesticide poisoning. These indices should be routinely interpreted and incorporated into early clinical decision-making in acute pesticide-poisoned cases.
Background: Acute poisoning is a major cause of death especially in the middle income countries as declared by WHO. The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented strain on healthcare facilities, leading to shortages of staff, resources, and hospital beds. This disruption affected the timely diagnosis and treatment of various emergencies, including poisoning cases. Study Objective: The study objectives were to analyze the demographic and clinical characteristics of acute poisoning deaths reported in Menoufia Poison Control Center (MPCC) between 2018 and 2023, to identify patterns of toxic agents, modes of exposure, and causes of death, and to assess temporal trends in poisoning deaths over the study period, including comparisons between pre-COVID (2018–2019), COVID (2020–2021), and post-COVID (2022–2023) periods, and predict the future trends.Methodology: The current study is a six-year retrospective, comparative study which included all deaths due to acute poisoning, who were admitted to Menoufia Poison Control Center MPCC over the period from 2018 till 2023. The total cases number was 827 cases. The type and manner of toxic exposure, demographic, and clinical data, were analyzed.Results: Most of the cases were females (55.7%) and from rural areas (62.8%). Phosphide poisoning accounted for 89.5% of deaths. The most frequent risk factor for suicide was financial troubles (46.3%), followed by family related troubles (42.1%). The three periods (pre-COVID), COVID period, and post-COVID period were compared on some variables such as sex, age, toxic agents involved, delay time in seeking treatment, and length of hospital stay among the poisoning deaths cases.Conclusion: The study shows that during the COVID-19 pandemic, poisoning admissions to MPCC dropped sharply, but mortality rates—especially from aluminum phosphide—continued to rise. Pandemic-related fear, transport restrictions, and healthcare overload delayed hospital presentation, leading to more severe cases.
Background:Motorcycle accidents are a major public health concern in developing countries, where widespread motorcycle use, substance abuse, and poor protective practices contribute to severe injuries and poor outcomes.Objective:To assess the impact of drug use on the incidence, severity, and clinical outcomes of motorcycle-related injuries, and to identify behavioral and environmental risk factors among cases admitted to Menoufia University hospitals.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months on 416 motorcycle accident victims. Data on demographics, behaviors, accident circumstances, injury patterns, hospital course, and outcomes were collected. Urine screening was used to detect substance abuse. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square and multinomial regression, were performed to identify predictors of poor outcomes.Results:Most victims were males (84.1%), aged 10–30 years (51%), and from rural areas (58.2%). Nearly one-third lacked a valid license (29.6%), and only 62.5% reported using protective gear. Cannabis (27.9%), amphetamines (23.1%), and morphine (15.4%) were the most common substances detected, with 20.9% showing poly-drug use. Substance use correlated strongly with risky behaviors such as speeding, reckless riding, and drowsiness. Accidents peaked in winter (57.7%), paralleling higher drug-positive cases. Extremity injuries were most common (54.8%), frequently involving vascular and skeletal trauma. Almost half (46.2%) developed permanent disability, mainly amputations (52.1%). Mortality reached 8.4%. Multinomial regression identified older age, rural residence, smoking, family history of drug abuse, lack of license, absence of protective gear, positive toxicology, prolonged hospital stay, and shock as independent predictors of poor outcomes. Shock was the strongest predictor of mortality (RRR 5.40), while hospital stay >7 days predicted complications (RRR 3.12).Conclusion:Drug use significantly worsens injury profiles, stability, hospital stay, and outcomes in motorcycle accidents. Amphetamine, morphine, and polydrug users had higher rates of shock, crushed injuries, and prolonged admissions, while tramadol and drug screening-negative victims showed more stable courses. Preventive measures should integrate stricter traffic law enforcement, anti-drug campaigns, youth education, seasonal safety programs, and improved trauma care.
Background: Intentional self-poisoning is a well-known method of suicide, with psychotropic and centrally acting medications are frequently used. Tizanidine, a centrally acting α2-adrenergic agonist muscle relaxant, is rarely reported as a means of self-harm, yet overdose can cause significant neurological and cardiovascular depression. Sleep disturbances such as chronic insomnia and parasomnia are increasingly recognized as important risk factors for suicide.Case presentation: A 30-year-old married woman was admitted to Alexandria Poison Center following a suicidal attempt involving the ingestion of an unknown amount of tizanidine (4 mg tablets) and a recent self-inflicted cut wrist. Psychiatric evaluation revealed a history of recurrent self-harm and multiple suicidal attempts, along with chronic insomnia (CI) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep disturbances. On the Reactive–Proactive Aggression Questionnaire (RPQ), she scored 31/46, with a predominant reactive aggression profile. Her Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score was 18/21, indicating markedly poor sleep quality with prolonged sleep latency, short duration, and high dependence on hypnotics. These findings highlight a complex interplay between poor sleep, emotional dysregulation, and suicidal behavior.Conclusion: This instance highlights the necessity for increased understanding of the psychiatric and sleep-related risk factors that contribute to recurrent suicidal behavior. The unusual use of tizanidine for self-poisoning highlights the accessibility of centrally acting agents as potential means of self-harm. Comprehensive assessment of sleep quality, aggression, and underlying psychiatric comorbidities should be integral to suicide prevention strategies, particularly in patients with chronic insomnia and prior self-harm history.
Background-Infant deaths that require forensic investigation pose distinct challenges, particularly when an unusual pattern of injury or mutilation is observed. When no other explanation is deemed satisfactory, we are forced to explore rarer theories. Historical accounts of child sacrifice exist, however modern-day cases with ritualistic implications are remarkably rare and demand thorough, evidence-based interpretation. This case series describes three highly unusual infant deaths presenting with specific post-mortem mutilation.Case Presentation-This report presents three distinct cases of infant autopsies where the lower part of the body was found to be missing from the neck and chest region, exhibiting patterns suggestive of deliberate dismemberment. Detailed macroscopic and microscopic examination revealed no definitive ante-mortem injuries or signs of vital reaction at the sites of dismemberment, indicating post-mortem infliction.Conclusion-Although the observed pattern of dismemberment in these three infant cases necessitates careful consideration of various possible post-mortem alterations and potential aetiologies, we cannot arrive at a definitive conclusion regarding the manner of death, particularly concerning ritualistic child sacrifice, solely on autopsy findings without thorough scene investigation and corroborating evidence.
Background and aim: Parabens were long considered harmless and widely used as preservatives. But , in the past two decades, concerns over their potential as endocrine-disrupting chemicals have sparked ongoing debate about their safety. However, the literature lacks population-based studies examining the link between paraben and type 2 diabetes. The study aimed to assess the association between paraben concentration and diabetes among a nationally representative sample of Egyptian adults.Methodology: one hundred participants were included and divided into two equal groups (cases and control). Demographic data, medical history, clinical examination and investigations (routine labs, Hba1c, lipid profile and paraben level) were collected from participants after giving informed consent. Paraben level was measured in urine using High-Performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).Results: Paraben level was significantly higher in diabetic participants (cases group) than control group. In addition there was significant relation between paraben level and history of gestational diabetes in cases group, while the relation between paraben level, lipid profile and glycated hemoglobin level was not significant.Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight significant associations between paraben exposure and various health parameters, particularly concerning glucose metabolism, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These findings call for further investigations into the health effects of parabens, particularly in vulnerable populations.Keywords: Paraben, Diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) , gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), diabetic Egyptians, High-Performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Background: Suicide is a global public health challenge with serious impacts on individuals, families, and communities. In Egypt, suicide represents the 25th cause of death. Suicidal self-poisoning replaces other methods of suicide. Intentional self-poisoning is considered one of the significant causes of hospital admission. Aim of the work: to evaluate suicide behavior in suicidal poisoned cases that arrived at Menoufia University Hospitals regarding sociodemographic data, past history, motive for suicide, poison history, clinical severity, and the severity of suicide intent. Patients and methods: It is a prospective study conducted on suicidal poisoned patients who arrived at Menoufia University Hospitals after obtaining ethical approval from the Menoufia University Ethics Committee. The study included patients of both sexes and different age groups after obtaining valid written informed consent from them or their guardians. The socio-demographic and clinical data were collected from each patient in a designed clinical toxicological sheet. The studied cases were classified according to the poisoning severity score. Suicide intent severity was assessed according to the Peirce Suicide Intent Scale (PSIS). Results: the study included 44 poisoned suicide cases (complete and attempt groups, 22 patients for each group). Most patients were between 18 and 40 years (59.1% of complete suicide and 45.5% of suicide attempt cases). Most suicide completers were males, while most suicide attempters were females. All complete suicide cases ingested an aluminum phosphide tablet. Family troubles, financial issues, and educational failure were the most common stresses for committing suicide. Regarding the poison severity score, all complete suicide patients were fatal, while most attempted suicides were of moderate severity (45.5%). Regarding Peirce's suicide intent scale in suicide attempters, suicide intent was intermediate in 64% and was high in 36% of them. Conclusion and recommendations: suicidal poisoning is a serious medical health problem among middle-aged individuals. Males usually used more lethal poisons than females. Phosphide pesticide toxicity is considered the main cause of suicide poisoning mortality. More attention must be given to limit the availability of the lethal poisons. Encouragement of the programs that support against suicide and help in suicide prevention.
AbstractMicro- and nano- plastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous in air, water, food and consumer products. Over the last five years, studies have confirmed MNPs in human tissues (stool, blood, placenta, lung) and experimental work shows plausible mechanisms of harm (inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, microbiome perturbation). However, large gaps remain in exposure quantification, dose–response relationships, standardized detection methods and epidemiological evidence linking MNPs to clinical disease. This review summarizes sources and routes of exposure, detection in humans, mechanisms of toxicity, key animal and human evidence, risk assessment challenges, and research/policy priorities. Plastics are produced and used at massive scale; weathering and mechanical degradation create micro- and nano plastic particles (MNPs) that enter the environment and the human exposome. MNPs differ from classic chemical pollutants because they are particulate, may carry or release chemical additives (phthalates, bisphenols), and can absorb environmental pollutants and microbes. Given their widespread presence and emerging evidence of internalization in human tissues, MNPs are an urgent emerging topic in environmental toxicology and public health. Recent comprehensive assessments highlight growing evidence for health risks while emphasizing uncertainty and research gaps
BACKGROUND: The number of stabbing deaths has sharply increased worldwide. It was noted to be one of the main causes of trauma in the world. This made the study of stab-related deaths of medical-legal significance, which would aid in the pursuit of criminal justice. SUBJECTS & METHODS: A cross-sectional study concerning demographic information and the findings of forensic examination was conducted on 116 cases of both sexes and various age groups, brought to Zeinhom Morgue within 12 months, with stab injuries as the primary cause of death.RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found in the comparison between: the type of weapon and shape of injury, weapon type and the blade character, anatomical region affected and direction of injury, blade width and external wound length, and number of stabs regarding the cause of assault or sex of the victim. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: There is a need to ensure proper limitation of ownership of sharp weapons, in addition to accurate documentation of stab wounds. The attendance of a forensic pathologist at the crime scene ensures appropriate management of stab cases and samples at the scene
Background: The misuse of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications for performance-enhancing purposes is a growing concern in gym settings globally, including Egypt. These substances, including anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and stimulants, are often used without professional guidance, posing significant health risks. Despite their prevalence, systematic research on this issue in Egyptian gymnasiums is limited.Aims: This study aims to assess the frequency, motivations, and patterns of OTC and prescription medication misuse among Egyptian gym-goers, with a focus on identifying demographic factors, sources of knowledge, and associated adverse effects.Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an anonymous online questionnaire distributed among 500 gym members via social media. The survey captured data on demographics, drug types used, misuse frequency, motivations, sources of information, and reported side effects. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, with statistical significance determined at p ≤ 0.05.Results: Of the 500 participants, 30% admitted to misusing substances, with anabolic steroids being the most common (60%), followed by creatine (50%) and protein supplements (40%). Misuse was more prevalent among males (36.9%) compared to females (17.1%) and highest among the 18–24 age group (45%). Social media (40%) and gym trainers (35%) were the primary sources of information. Motivations included increasing muscle mass (70%) and enhancing workout performance (50%). Adverse effects, such as acne (40%), mood swings (30%), and liver/kidney issues (10%), were commonly reported.Conclusions: The findings highlight significant misuse of performance-enhancing substances in Egyptian gymnasiums, driven by social influences and a lack of professional guidance. Public health interventions targeting awareness and regulatory enforcement are urgently needed to mitigate health risks and promote safer practices.
Background: Lithium remains a cornerstone in the long-term management of bipolar affective disorders. However, its use has been associated with multisystem toxicity including thyroid gland. Aim of the work: the study aimed to evaluate the thyrotoxic effects of sub-acute lithium carbonate in albino male adult rats, and the role of concomitant chitosan use in diminishing these effects. Methods: Sixty rats were randomly allocated into six groups. Group 1 served as the negative control. Group 2 received chitosan at a dose of 200 mg/kg/day. Group 3 was administered lithium carbonate at 25 mg/kg/day, while Group 4 received a combination of chitosan (200 mg/kg/day) and lithium carbonate (25 mg/kg/day). Group 5 was treated with lithium carbonate at 50 mg/kg/day orally, and Group 6 received both chitosan (200 mg/kg/day) and lithium carbonate (50 mg/kg/day). Animals were treated via oral gavage for four weeks; blood samples were collected for hormonal assays and oxidative stress biomarker, and after euthanasia, thyroid tissue was harvested for microscopic examination and morphometric evaluation. Results: Groups 3 and 5 showed a reduction in total T3 and total T4 , and a rise in TSH and MDA (Malondialdehyde) levels, while the addition of chitosan in groups 4 and 6 restored these levels to normal compared to control groups 1 and 2. H&E-stained sections from groups 3 and 5 revealed congestion, degeneration, and desquamation of the follicular epithelium in thyroid tissue, while morphometric analysis demonstrated a decrease in the mean luminal area with no significant change in the follicles number. The addition of chitosan in groups 4 and 6 ameliorated the histopathological effects of lithium carbonate on thyroid tissue, rendering the results comparable to the control groups. Conclusion: The hypothyroid effect of lithium carbonate is evident with prolonged administration; however, these effects can be attenuated by co-administration of chitosan as an antioxidant.
Background: We report a case of mechanical small bowel obstruction due to a constriction band and subsequent necrosis of the herniated part, in a 27-year-old female patient with no previous abdominal surgery. Case Presentation: She had been experiencing mild intermittent abdominal pain over the past six months, and she took analgesics and antacids only. The day before her death, she complained severe pain and underwent an ultrasound scan, which indicated a distended intestinal loop. She didn’t seek a surgical opinion. In autopsy, a whitish fibrous constriction band of 1 to 2 cm width found attached to mesentery, from which distal jejunum and proximal ilium was herniating, which was gangrenous. Histo-pathological findings from herniated part showed coagulative necrosis of mucosal epithelial lining (transmural intestinal infarction). Conclusion: The timely diagnosis and intervention would have prevented the outcome. Though the constriction band is rare in adults, it should still be suspected as an etiology in patients without prior abdominal surgery.
Background: Candidatus Atelocyanobacterium thalassa (UCYN-A) is a newly identified cyanobacterial symbiont with potential forensic applications, particularly in underwater investigations. Due to the rapid deterioration of biological evidence in aquatic environments, the identification of stable biomarkers such as nitroplast organelles could improve forensic analyses. Objective: This narrative review aims to evaluate the utility of nitroplast organelles, such as UCYN-A, as biological evidence in underwater crime scene investigations. Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024 were analyzed for their forensic relevance, focusing on the detection methods and environmental stability of nitroplast organelles. Results: Nitroplast organelles were detected in respiratory fluids, stomach contents, and under-fingernail residues in saltwater drowning cases. Their presence in these sites provides valuable information about the salinity of the environment and the duration of exposure. Conclusion: The findings suggest that nitroplast organelles can serve as reliable biomarkers in underwater forensic investigations. However, further experimental validation and standardization of forensic protocols are required for their routine use.
