Thrombolytic Effects of Philippine Pit Viper (Trimeresurus flavomaculatus) Venom in Human Blood In Vitro and Ferric Chloride-Induced Cardiac Thrombosis on Swiss Webster Mice In Vivo.

INTRODUCTION:  Thrombosis is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Thrombolytic agents are used to reduce this burden. Studies pointed out that certain proteins in the venom of several snake species may have potential thrombolytic properties. Trimeresurus flavomaculatus, known as the Philippine pit viper, is found along damp localities in the Philippines. Venoms of closely related species have been shown to exhibit thrombolytic effects in vitro and in vivo. However, no extensive studies yet have been conducted about the thrombolytic effect of T. flavomaculatus venom. Thus, this two-phased study aimed to determine the thrombolytic effect of T. flavomaculatus venom on human blood and ferric chloride-induced cardiac thrombosis in mice. METHODOLOGY: Phase 1 was done using clot lysis method to measure thrombolytic activity in vitro. Venom dilutions of 3:4, 1:2, 2:3, and 1:0, positive control (streptokinase), and negative control (normal saline solution) were inoculated to different samples of human blood. Phase 2 measured the thrombolytic activity in vivo. Ferric chloride-saturated filter paper was applied over the cardiac wall for the induction of thrombus formation. Venom dilutions of 1:64, 1:16, 1:4, and 1:1, positive control (streptokinase), and negative control (normal saline solution) were then injected through the dorsal tail vein of mice. After 1 hour, the cardiac tissues were excised for histologic examination. RESULTS: Phase 1 results showed that the venom had significant thrombolytic activity in vitro. Dilutions of 1:0 and 3:4 had no significant differences with streptokinase in vitro. Phase 2 results showed significant lysis in vivo at 1:1, 1:4, and 1:64 venom dilutions. CONCLUSION:  The results indicated that T. flavomaculatus has a potential thrombolytic activity both in vitro and in vivo.

Biopsychosocial Aspect of Patients With X-Linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism: Its Implications on Quality of Life.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the demographic profile in terms of age, marital status, annual family income, and educational attainment; to describe the physical, psychological, and social manifestations; to determine and describe coping mechanisms; to determine the goals, aspirations, and needs; and to determine the interaction and impact of the lived experiences on the quality of life of X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism (XDP) patients. METHODS: This qualitative-phenomenological study was conducted in the island of Panay. Purposive sampling was utilized. The researchers utilized in-depth interviews, observation, and triangulation as part of the data collection methods. The data were transcribed verbatim, kept for content analysis, and coded in their appropriate cell categories after themes were identified. RESULTS: Ten male patients who were residents of Panay and aged 30-65 years old participated in this study. Disease manifestations included limb dystonia, blepharospasm, truncal torsion, oromandibular symptoms, torticollis, and dysphonia, contributing to limitations in performing activities of daily living. Denial was the most common initial reaction after being diagnosed with XDP. Social manifestations were greatly affected by family and community. Money and medications were the primary needs identified by the patients with hopes of a better future for their families. There was an overall deterioration in the quality of life of the patients. CONCLUSIONS: XDP greatly affected the physical, psychological, and social aspects of the patients. Coping with the disease and its effects has been thought to play an important role in the perception of one's quality of life.

Anterolateral thoracic approach for thoracic discectomy using pedicle marking and 3D intraoperative imaging system.

Thoracic disc herniation (TDH) is a rare occurrence comprising of only 0.25-0.75% of all herniated discs in any region. Limitations in direct visualization remains a surgical challenge for complete and safe resection of TDH. In this case report, we describe the use of a 3D intraoperative imaging system (O-arm system TM) coupled with percutaneous pedicle markers placed under fluoroscopic guidance to circumvent the current limitations in visualisation for a patient with a giant calcified TDH using an anterolateral approach. There was an improvement in overall visualisation and ease of procedure, leading to a successful surgery. Post-op, there was a significant improvement in the motor power of the patient.