Heavy metals (HMs) have extensive distribution in the environment due to their diverse applications. However, the exposure to HMs remains one of the major causes of hepatotoxicity which could lead to organ failure thereby constituting a major public health concern globally. The toxic effect of HMs on hepatic tissue, which is characterized with the induction of oxidative stress, activation of inflammatory and apoptotic signaling, adverse interaction with hepatic tissue enzymes and antioxidants as well as hepatic histopathological changes, culminates into HMs-induced hepatotoxicity (HMH). Experimental studies have been conducted to explore the therapeutic potential of essential vitamins such as riboflavin, ascorbic acid, and alpha-tocopherol against HMH. They exhibit hepatoprotective effect against HMs exposure essentially by reversal of the aforementioned deleterious effects associated with the exposure. The modulatory activity of these essential vitamins on the associated mechanisms and downstream pathways of HMH thereby highlighted their prophylactic or ameliorative effect against HMH and underscored their role as potent therapeutic agents.
Digital ratio, particularly the second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D), has been explored as a non-invasive marker of prenatal hormone exposure and a potential predictor of Hand Grip Strength (HGS). While previous studies have linked lower 2D:4D ratios to enhanced physical strength, evidence from African populations remains limited. This study investigated the relationship between dorsal digit ratios (2D:4D and 3D:5D) and handgrip strength (HGS) in a sample of young adult Nigerians aged between 18 and 30 years. A total of 249 participants (124 males and 125 females) were randomly selected. Dorsal digit lengths were measured using a digital vernier caliper, and HGS was assessed using a modified sphygmomanometer. Results showed clear sexual dimorphism in both digit ratios and hand grip strength. Females had significantly higher right-hand 2D:4D ratios than males, while males exhibited significantly greater HGS and longer digits across all measured fingers. Notably, the 2D:4D ratio was a significant predictor of left-hand grip strength across sexes. In males, the right-hand 2D:4D ratio did not correlate with grip strength, whereas the 3D:5D ratio proved a better predictor. Among females, both 2D:4D and 3D:5D ratios showed significant associations with grip strength in both hands. These findings suggest that dorsal digit ratios, particularly 2D:4D and 3D:5D, may serve as useful indicators of grip strength, with hand-specific and sex-specific variations in predictive value. This pattern reinforces the relevance of digit ratio variation as a potential anatomical marker of functional performance.
Variations of the anterior belly of the digastric muscle are frequently reported in adult populations; however, the developmental timing of their appearance remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to describe the morphology and prevalence of anterior digastric belly variations and to contextualize these findings through a meta-analysis of published anatomical studies. Twenty-six formalin-fixed human fetuses (13 male, 13 female) were dissected and analyzed morphologically. Variations were classified ac-cording to De-Ary-Pires, Ary-Pires and Pires-Neto. A systematic review and meta-analysis of ob-servational studies reporting the prevalence of anterior belly variations was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The mean gestational age was 29.4 +/- 3.58 weeks. Variations were observed in six fetuses (23.1%), all classified as type II, with no association with sex or gestational age. The meta-analysis of 16 studies (n = 787) yielded a pooled prevalence of 25.1% (95% CI: 15.5-35.9; I-2 = 90.6%), with variation across geographical re-gions and sexes. Variations of the anterior belly of the digastric muscle are established during fetal development and occur at frequencies comparable to those reported in postnatal populations. These findings support a developmental origin for this anatomical variability and provide a morphological framework for future embryological and anatomical investigations of the suprahyoid region.
This study aimed to evaluate and compare the cognitive and spatial learning outcomes of two instructional modalities, traditional 2D atlas-based learning and 3D atlas-based visualization, in the teaching of human embryology. Conducted as a cross-over experimental study at Khyber Medical University, the research involved thirty-four postgraduate students equally divided into Group A and Group B. In Phase 1, Group A received 2D instruction while Group B received 3D instruction. Each participant completed a pretest, a two-hour instructional session on heart development, a post-test immediately after, and a delayed post-test two weeks later. Cognitive understanding was assessed using a structured questionnaire, while spatial ability was evaluated using the Visualization of Rotation (ROT) test. After Phase 1, the instructional methods were flipped between the groups, and the assessments were repeated. Before flipping, a significant difference was observed in pretest cognitive scores between the groups (F = 5.405, p = 0.026), with the Group B (3D in Phase 1) scoring higher; however, this difference did not persist in post-test or delayed post-test results. Spatial scores also showed a clear advantage for the Group B before the flip, with significantly higher post-test (F = 27.781, p < 0.05) and delayed post-test scores (F = 55.07, p < 0.05). After flipping, the group receiving 3D instruction achieved higher spatial scores at both the post-test and delayed post-test stages confirming the consistent advantage of 3D visualization across both phases. Within-group analysis revealed modest improvements after instruction for both groups, followed by a normal decline at delayed testing. Overall, the findings suggest that 3D atlas-based learning enhances spatial reasoning and visualization skills, while traditional 2D learning remains effective for factual content mastery. The cross-over design minimized the influence of baseline differences and allowed direct comparison of both modalities within the same participants. These results support an integrated pedagogical approach where 3D visualization tools are introduced early to build spatial frameworks, followed by 2D resources to reinforce conceptual understanding and retention.
Hydatidiform mole, the most common form of gestational trophoblastic disease, presents as complete or partial form. Complete hydatidiform mole (CHM) usually presents with prominent histological criteria, whereas partial hydatidiform mole (PHM) shows a wide spectrum of presentations depending on gestational age. Molecular markers enhance the understanding of the variation and heterogeneous presentation of molar pregnancies, as well as their biological potential and behavior. This retrospective study included 50 CHM and 50 PHM specimens, terminated in first trimester via suction curettage. A second histopathological review of slides stained with hematoxylin and eosin was conducted, as well as a selection of representative tissue slides for p53 immunostaining. This study aimed to determine the precise correlation between specific morphological criteria and the patterns of p53 immunoexpression. Semi-quantitative analysis of samples for both pathological criteria and p53 immunostaining was performed. p53 positivity was defined as follow: the percentage of positive cells/nuclei: + (10-40%); ++ (40-70%); +++ (>70%); and staining intensity was scored as: 1 - weak, 2 - moderate, and 3 - strong intensity. P53 expression was estimated on at least 200 nuclei of cytotrophoblasts per slide. Significant difference in p53 expression exist between CHM and PHM in staining intensity. CHM shows significant correlation of p53 positivity with hydrops, central cisterns and atypia. In PHM trophoblast pseudoinclusions demonstrate strong significant correlation with p53 positivity. The irregular pseudoinclusions demonstrate lower expression compared with round or oval, being consistent with benign behavior of PHM. Prominent morphological criteria strongly correlate with p53 immunoexpression for both CHM and PHM.
The anatomy Museum is an important educational resource for medical students, offering preserved specimens, models, and charts. However, its utilization varies, and its educational value remains unclear. This study examined utilization patterns of anatomy museums among Indian medical graduates (IMGs) and explored whether frequent academic visits enhance anatomy comprehension and exam preparation. A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted from July 2024 to February 2025 among IMGs who had completed Phase 1 of MBBS. Participants were categorized as non-visitors or museum attendees. Attendees were further classified by purpose (academic, non-academic, or both) and frequency (regular: >= 10 visits/year; infrequent <10 visits/year). Data were analyzed using de-scriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Of 1270 respondents, 81.3% (n = 1032) visited the museum during Phase 1, while 18.7% (n = 238) had never visited. Among attendees, 72.6% (n = 749) engaged in structured learning, and 26.6% (n = 274) visited casually. Within structured learning, 50.3% (n = 377) were regular visitors and 49.7% (n = 372) infrequent visitors. Regular visitors reported greater benefits than infrequent visitors in exam preparation (93.9% vs. 76.6%, x(2 )= 44.656, p < 0.001) and anatomy understanding (98.7% vs. 94.6%, x(2 )= 9.520, p = 0.002). Barriers included academic workload and restricted access. Participants recommended unrestricted entry, structured faculty-led sessions, and upgraded infrastructure. Frequent academic visits were perceived to significantly enhance anatomy compre-hension and exam preparedness, highlighting the need to integrate structured museum learning into the curriculum.
The anatomy museums that provide students with access to cadaveric specimens and bones for their learning purpose are essential in the field of medical education. It is now mandatory for every medical college to have an anatomy museum. Therefore, for every medical student it will be useful to know about the museum techniques. The purpose of this study was to acquaint medical students with museum technique. To achieve this objective, thord-year medical students of Panimalar medical college hospital and research institute Chennai who came to department of Anatomy for their elective courses were selected for the study. All aspects of museum techniques, starting from specimen preparation using dissected cadavers, and later preservation techniques, preparing jars using acrylic sheet, labelling, mounting of both dry and wet specimens, were taught to the elective students. The students were divided into four groups with five students in each group. The stipulated time used for the study was 15 days. The museum work was divided and given to each group accordingly, and asked the groups to show innovation in mounting specimens. The students learnt all the museum techniques within the stipulated time. They mounted the museum specimens and showed their innovative skills and knowledge. All the steps followed in making museum specimens and jars were photographed, and the procedures were recorded in the log book. The enthusiastic work of the students creates innovation with respect to traditional method of education. The medical students visiting anatomy museums during their first year of the course gives them an idea about human body. Museums are important educational resources, and are considered a supplemental approach in providing medical education. This study has facilitated their independent training in museum techniques, which will help in better comprehension and knowledge enrichment about museum preparation among medical students.
Hip pain, including Ischiofemoral impingement, often requires surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the shortest distance between the lesser trochanter and the medial circumflex femoral artery (MCFA). A total of 40 patients (18 males and 22 females) were included. MR images were retrospectively examined. Measurements of the shortest distance between the lesser trochanter and the MCFA before its branches were taken. The average age of the 40 patients was 49.65 +/- 13.89 years, ranging from 29 to 78 years old. Of the 40 patients, 18 (45%) were men and 22 (55%) were women. The shortest distance between the left-side MCFA and the lesser trochanter was found to be 25.10 +/- 6.80 mm in men and 24.84 +/- 8.73 mm in women. The shortest distance between the right-side MCFA and the lesser trochanter was found to be 28.62 +/- 8.91 mm in men and 26.26 +/- 6.41 mm in women. In all patients, the shortest distance between the MCFA and the lesser trochanter was 24.98 +/- 7.63 mm on the left side and 27.31 +/- 7.61 mm on the right side. No significant sex differ-ences were found for either the right (p=0.349) or left (p=0.916) sides. However, there was a significant difference between the right and left sides (p=0.005). This study identified a significant asymmetry in the positioning of the MCFA relative to the lesser trochanter, with no notable differences between sexes. These findings enhance our understanding of the course and morphology of the MCFA, which may be beneficial for comprehending and im-proving surgical interventions for Ischiofemoral impingement.
This retrospective study evaluates the effectiveness of the Rigo-Cheneau brace, one of the most widely used three-dimensional orthoses in Europe, in the management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Although the literature on brace effectiveness remains limited and clinical protocols vary, our objective was to provide a recent analysis of retrospective results obtained in routine clinical practice. Data from a total of 35 patients seen in rehabilitation services between 2011 and April 2023 were analyzed; all met the Scoliosis Research Society (2005) standardization criteria: age >= 10 years, Risser index 0-2, and a curve magnitude of 25 degrees to 40 degrees. The variables studied included Cobb angle magnitude, vertebral rotation according to the Nash and Moe scale, and the need for surgery. The results indicate that the Rigo-Cheneau brace is effective in controlling the magnitude of the curve. Specifically, 80% of pa-tients maintained or improved their curve angulation at the end of treatment. A significant finding was the improvement or maintenance of vertebral rotation in 100% of patients, demonstrating its corrective action in the transverse plane. Effectiveness in preventing surgery was 100% in this cohort of selected patients. Consistent brace wear (adherence greater than 18 hours per day) is also associated with significantly lower curve progres-sion. The Rigo-Cheneau brace showed high effectiveness for musculoskeletal immature patients with moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
The unavoidable and intangible human exposure to zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) carries a great risk of toxicities to different organs. Nanoparticles (NPs) are widely applied in many foods, water, medicine, cosmetics, agricultural, and industrial fields. The current study aimed to evaluate ZnONPs-induced histopathological and biochemical changes on the prostate of rats and investigate the possible prophylaxis by combined Rutin and vitamin C against these changes. Four equal groups of total forty adult male albino rats were randomly assigned (control, vehicle control, ZnONPs, and ZnONPs + Rutin C groups). Histological examination was done using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome stains. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and prostatic specific antigen (PSA) were used in an immunohistochemical analysis. Measurements of serum PSA, oxidation marker malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were also performed. ZnONPs group revealed distorted prostatic acini with thickened inter-acinar stroma exhibiting congested blood vessels and inflammatory cells, in addition to disturbed oxidative-antioxidative balance with elevated serum PSA. ZnONPs and Rutin C group showed marked improvement of the prostatic architecture with restoration of the oxidative-antioxidative balance and serum PSA. Our study concluded that the administration of ZnONPs to rats injured their prostates both histologically and biochemically. Rutin C has a protective role against the toxic effect of ZnONPs.
The prostate gland is known for its potential implications, particularly prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is supplied by the prostatic artery, which shows considerable anatomical variation, directly implicating prostatic artery embolization, an emerging minimally invasive therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Identifying prostatic artery origin variation is essential in order to optimize embolization and improve clinical outcomes. The objective was to investigate the anatomical variation of the prostatic artery using cadaveric dissection and angiographic evaluation, and to assess the impact of this variation on clinical outcomes following prostatic artery embolization. A bilateral cadaveric dissection was conducted on five male pelvis specimens to identify prostatic artery origin. The radiological arm included 54 symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia patients undergoing prostatic artery embolization, with prostatic artery origin variation and symmetry documented. IPSS recorded pre-procedure and at 3 and 6 months post-embolization, and statistical analysis was performed. Cadaveric analysis showed that the prostatic artery most commonly originated from vesical arteries (60%), followed by the obturator (20%) and internal pudendal arteries (20%). Radiologically, vesical origin was also the most frequent (41.7%), followed by obturator (23.1%), internal pudendal (21.3%), and internal iliac artery (13.9%). Symmetrical prostatic artery origin was observed in 83.3% of patients. Prostatic artery embolization produced a significant reduction in mean IPSS, from 24.53 pre-procedure to 16.31 and 11.56 after 3 and 6 months respectively (p<0.001). Neither patient age nor prostatic artery origin impacted clinical improvement. The prostatic artery shows marked anatomical variability, with vesical arteries representing the most frequent origin. Prostatic artery embolization is an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, producing significant improvement regardless of prostatic artery origin or patient age.
The palmaris longus (PL) muscle is a superficial flexor muscle that exhibits a notable anatomical variability and is frequently used in reconstructive surgery. Its absence or morphological differences may influence surgical planning. This study aims to determine the prevalence and morphological variation of PL in the Jordanian population, and assess its relationship with sex, hand dominance and parental origin. A cross-sectional study of 403 University of Jordan students was conducted. PL presence was assessed bilaterally using multiple tests (Schaeffer’s, Thompson’s, Mishra’s test I and II, and Pushpakumar’s tests). Photographs of the forearm were taken and independently reviewed to classify the PL morphology into normal, bifurcated, radial deviation, ulnar deviation, reversed, or absent. PL was present bilaterally in 228 participants (56.5%), absent bilaterally in 92 (22.8%), and unilaterally absent in 83 (20.6%). Unilateral absence was more frequent in the left (12.9%) than the right (7.7%). Sex was significantly associated with PL presence, while parental origin (mother’s origin), (father’s origin) and hand dominance were not. Most Jordanians in this study had bilaterally present PL, with notable morphological diversity. Females were more likely to have an absent PL than males, whereas hand dominance and parental origin did not influence its presence. The novel classification of PL variations proposed here may assist surgeons in preoperative evaluation for tendon grafting.
The human skull is a biologically dynamic structure that undergoes continuous morphological modification throughout the lifespan. These changes reflect intrinsic developmental pro-cesses, as well as extrinsic influences, including culturally mediated practices such as artificial cranial deformation. Comparative craniomet-ric research provides an effective framework for assessing how age-related skeletal remodeling interacts with deformation-induced constraints, thereby contributing to broader understandings of craniofacial plasticity, skeletal adaptation, and population variability. This study aimed to conduct a comparative craniometric analysis of age-related morphological changes in artificial-ly deformed and non-deformed skulls, focusing on cranial indices, skull shape distributions, and proportional relationships across successive life stages. A total of 254 adult and subadult skulls from the osteological collection of Azerbaijan Medical University were examined, including 200 non-deformed and 54 artificially deformed specimens. Age classification followed an established anthropological age-periodization system. Stan-dard craniometric measurements were obtained, including cranial length, breadth, height, and fa-cial dimensions, from which key cranial and fa-cial indices were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (v.26.0), with Pearson's Chi-square test applied to assess associations between age, deformation status, and cranial morphology. In non-deformed skulls, brachycranic forms predominated in younger individuals, with a gradual shift toward mesoc-ranic and dolichocranic configurations in later age groups. Elderly individuals exhibited a higher prevalence of euryprosopic facial morphology. In contrast, artificially deformed skulls demonstrat-ed a consistently high frequency of metriocrania across all age categories, indicating relative stabi-lization of cranial proportions. Younger deformed skulls were characterized by broad and moderate-ly high cranial vaults with predominantly meso-prosopic facial forms. Adult age groups displayed increased variability in cranial indices, particularly in length-breadth relationships. Statistical-ly significant differences were observed between deformed and non-deformed skulls in the tra-jectory of age-related cranial index changes (p <= 0.05). Age-related cranial remodeling follows distinct morphological trajectories in artificial-ly deformed and non-deformed skulls. Artificial cranial deformation appears to constrain natural age-dependent variability, resulting in more sta-ble proportional patterns throughout the lifespan. These findings contribute to anthropological, an-atomical, and clinical perspectives on craniofa-cial growth, cultural body-modification practices, and skeletal adaptation.
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a recognized marker of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. While age and sex are established risk factors, the influence of coronary bifurcation angles (left anterior descending artery - LAD, left main artery - LMA, left circumflex artery - LCx) on CAC remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between these anatomical angles, demographic factors, and CAC presence/severity. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 164 patients over 18 years of age who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) between April 2024 and October 2024. Ethical approval was obtained, and data were anonymized. Patients with prior interventions, anatomical variations, or poor image quality were excluded. Computed tomography (CT) images were obtained using a 128-slice scanner. Bifurcation angles were measured on 3D reconstructions. CAC was evaluated using non-contrast CT and the Agatston scoring method. Statistical and ROC analyses were performed to assess associations between variables. CAC was more common in older and male patients (p < 0.05). Bifurcation angles, including LAD-LCx, showed no significant association with the presence or severity of CAC (p > 0.05; AUC values < 0.60). No significant correlation was found between angles and calcium scores. Age and male sex were strongly associated with CAC, supporting known risk patterns. LAD was the most frequently calcified vessel. Although bifurcation angles did not show significant predictive value, geometric trends suggest a potential hemodynamic role in early atherosclerosis. Male sex and age are significant predictors of CAC. While bifurcation angles were not independently predictive, their anatomical influence warrants further investigation, particularly regarding LAD involvement.
Inguinal hernias are a common occurrence in both infants and adults. Several surgical procedures to repair these hernias have been introduced, with varying success rates. Decreasing the rate of complication incidence requires an absolute understanding of the anatomical structures involved. A literature review indicated that surgeons favor using the Lichtenstein tension-free method. This study describes the anatomy of the iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves clearly and accurately for application in the successful performance of the Lichtenstein tension-free inguinal hernia repair within a South African population. Together with an extensive literature search, a bilateral dissection was conducted to expose the spinal nerve of the iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves in a sample that included 105 formalin-fixed adult cadavers. The anatomy of the ilio-hypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves aligned with existing descriptions in anatomical textbooks and literature. The L1 spinal nerve was observed predominantly bifurcating into the iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves within the transversus abdominis muscle before coursing towards the anterior superior iliac spine. The distances of the iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves to the anterior superior iliac spine lie within the recommended 30-40 mm muscle flap described for the Lichtenstein tension-free repair to visualize the nerves. This study reiterates the safety of an iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerve block procedure, which is recommended for inguinal hernia repairs within a South African population. It is important to note the variability observed in the study for safe performance and successful early postoperative pain management using the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks.
Lead (Pb)-induced neurotoxicity is a major public health problem. The nervous system is the primary target of Pb toxicity. Since selenium (Se) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that have been shown to provide some protection against heavy metal toxicity, the present study aimed to demonstrate the potential protective role of Se against the effects of Pb on the cerebellar structure of rats using histopathological, immunohistochemical, biochemical and molecular measures. Experimental rats were divided into 3 groups, each divided into 2 subgroups: control group (Se-free and Se-supplemented subgroups), Pb group (low and high dose Pb subgroups), and Pb/Se group (low and high dose Pb subgroups with Se). After 4 weeks of administration, cerebellar samples were collected for investigation. Pb-induced cerebellar damage was manifested by significant increases in the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), brain oxidative marker (malondialdehyde) and apoptosis (DNA fragmentation), particularly at high dose. Pb also caused alteration of normal cerebellar structure and cellular degeneration with a significant reduction in the total number of Purkinje cells and the thickness of molecular and granular layers. All these alterations were greatly mitigated by co-administration of Se especially in the low dose Pb/Se subgroup. Se has been suggested to reduce Pb-induced neurotoxicity in the cerebellum. Further experimental studies are recommended before applying the results in clinical trials.
Cisplatin is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents, but nephrotoxicity is its major hazard. This study aimed to evaluate the possible protective effects of mesenchymal stem cell and alfacalcidol in ameliorating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats. Five young male albino rats were utilized to obtain BM-MSCs. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into: Group I, n=8: (control), Group II, n=8 (cisplatin): received cisplatin (6.5 mg/kg) IP as a single dose on day 0, Group III, n=24 (treatment): subdivided into: subgroup IIIa (Alfacalcidol): received 50 ng/kg/day alfacalcidol oral daily dose for 5 days, then received cisplatin (as group II), then continued alfacalcidol for another 5 days, Subgroup IIIb (Alfacalcidol) (BM-MSCs): received cisplatin (as group II) on day 0, then received BM-MSCs suspension injected into the tail vein after cisplatin, in a dose of 2 & times; 106 in 0.5 ml PBS/rat, Subgroup IIIc: (BM-MSCs and alfacalcidol): received 50 ng/kg/day alfacalcidol orally daily dose for 5 days, then cisplatin (as group II) then BM-MSCs suspension injected into the tail vein, in a dose of 2 & times;106 in 0.5 ml PBS/rat one day after cisplatin then continued alfacalcidol for another 5 days. Blood urea and serum creatinine were measured, and kidneys were processed for histological, immunohistochemical and morphometric studies. Combined alfacalcidol-and-BM-MSCs-treated group IIIc exhibited marked improvement in histological structure of the kidney and renal functions. Combined treatment of alfacalcidol with BM-MSCs may represent a suitable modality in alleviating cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury than using each modality alone.
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic with wide range application in antimicrobial therapy; however, its toxicity is associated with liver, kidney and testicular damages. Moringa oleifera (MO) is used in the present study to determine its effect in ameliorating the toxic effect of chloramphenicol on the liver, kidney and testicular tissues. 25 albino rats were clustered into 5 groups: Group 1 was administered equal measures of distilled water; Group 2 administered 50 mg/kg chloramphenicol; Groups 3 and 4 were administered 250 mg/kg MO + chloramphenicol, and 5000 mg/kg MO + chloramphenicol 50 mg/kg, respectively; and Group 5 received 100 mg/kg Silymarin and chloramphenicol 50 mg/ kg for a period of 28 days, after which the rats were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected through cardiac puncture and serum, which was analyzed for liver and kidney function enzymes. Liver, kidney and testes were harvested and weighed before being processed for routine histological analysis. Sperm count analysis was carried out using Neubauer's hemocytometer under the light microscope at & times;400 magnifica-tion. MO had no significant effect on liver and kid-ney weight, or sperm count. It significantly de-creased serum AST, ALT and ALP level, but had no effect on ALB. It decreased serum creatinine, bicarbonate and sodium levels at a low dose, and increased creatinine and bicarbonate ions at a higher dose. MO did not fully ameliorate the effects of chloramphenicol, as renal histology revealed dilated renal tubules and tubular epithelial cell degeneration and, in the liver, lymphocytic infiltration was observed in the si-nusoids. In the testes, the germinal layers were improved with more sperm cells preserved with observed bleeding in the interstitial space when compared to the negative control group. MO presents a promising remedy in ameliorating the deleterious effects posed by chloramphenicol-induced toxicity.
Scaphocephaly is a congenital skull deformity that occurs due to the premature closure of the sagittal suture. The resultant skull dysmorphia can cause increased intracranial pressure, leading to ventriculomegaly or hydrocephalus. Previous research focuses on the cranium, with only few studies having analyzed the ventricular system in scaphocephaly. This study aimed to evaluate the morphometry of the ventricular system in patients with scaphocephaly, compared with normal individuals. Computerized tomography scans of 20 patients diagnosed with scaphocephaly and those of 20 control patients were utilized. The following linear dimensions were measured: right and left frontal horn length, third ventricle width, and fourth ventricle length and width. The following linear indices were calculated: Evans index, Bifrontal index, Bicaudate index, Bicaudate frontal index, Bicaudate temporal index, and the Huckman number. The right and left frontal horn length and the third ventricle width were significantly larger in scaphocephaly. The Evans index (p<0.001), bifrontal index (p=0.002), bicaudate index (p=0.003), and bicaudate temporal index (p<0.001) were significantly increased in scaphocephaly compared to the control group. The linear indices were larger in females when compared to males, while the linear dimensions were larger in males than in females in both study groups. The parameters increased with advancing age. The Evans, Bifrontal, Bicaudate Frontal, and Bicaudate temporal indices were significantly larger in the severe scaphocephaly group as opposed to the control group. The ventricles are enlarged in scaphocephaly, mainly observed in the anterior aspect, and ventricular constriction in the posterior aspect of the brain. The ventricular morphometry is also affected by age, sex, and severity of deformity.
Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Antigen-2 alpha (CTLA-2 alpha) is expressed in various epithelial cells in mammalian, and is known for its specific and high affinity inhibition of cathepsin L. In the submandibular gland, cathepsin L is expressed by interstitial cells and gingival fibroblasts. However, the expression of CTLA-2 alpha in salivary glands has never been demonstrated. The objective of this study was therefore to examine the expression of CTLA-2 alpha in rat major salivary glands and to assess its cellular localization with cathepsin L, so as to deduce their functional implications in salivary secretion. Results showed that CTLA-2 alpha is strongly expressed by ductal epithelial cells in granular convoluted tubules of the submandibular salivary gland, striated and excretory ducts, blood vessels and nerve bundles of all salivary glands. Immunoreactivity was weak in intercalated ductal cells but was absent in secretory acinar cells in all the glands. Double immunofluorescence labeling was performed to determine whether CTLA-2 alpha and cathepsin L in the salivary glands were localized within the same cell. Colocalization was detected in epithelial cells of the duct system, blood vessels and nerve bundles of the glands. These results are suggestive of the specific physiological functions of CTLA-2 alpha and cathepsin L in ductal cells of the salivary glands, and implicate the two in the salivary fluid modification, processing and releasing of neuropeptides and polypeptides in the salivary fluid.
