Acetazolamide loaded-silver nanoparticles: A potential treatment for murine trichinellosis.

Trichinellosis is a global food-borne disease caused by viviparous parasitic nematodes of the genus Trichinella. Due to the lack of effective, safe therapy and the documented adverse effects of traditional therapy, this study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of acetazolamide-loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on murine trichinellosis. Fifty male Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups of ten mice each: Group I, normal control group; Group II, infected with T. spiralis and not treated; Group III, infected and given AgNPs; Group IV, infected and treated with acetazolamide; and Group V, infected and treated with acetazolamide-loaded AgNPs. Mice were infected orally with 250 larvae. The efficacy was assessed by counting T. spiralis adults and larvae, measuring serum total antioxidant capacity, and observing the histopathological and ultrastructural alterations. Acetazolamide-loaded AgNPs treatment exhibited the highest percentage of reduction (84.72% and 80.74%) for the intestinal adults and the muscular larvae of T. spiralis-infected animals, respectively. Furthermore, during the intestinal and muscular phases, the serum of the same group had the best free-radical scavenging capacity (antioxidant capacity), which reduced tissue damage induced by oxidative stress. Histopathologically, the normal intestinal and muscular architecture was restored in the group treated with acetazolamide-loaded AgNPs, in addition to the reduced inflammatory infiltrate that alleviated inflammation compared to infected animals. Our results confirmed the marked destruction of the ultrastructural features of T. spiralis adults and larvae. Acetazolamide-loaded AgNPs are a promising therapy against T. spiralis infection.

Antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds of Commiphora gileadensis extracts obtained by ultrasonic-assisted extraction, with monitoring antiaging and cytotoxicity activities.

Commiphora gileadensis (C. gileadensis) has been identified and linked with various health benefits and pharmaceutical potential for its phytochemical activities and chemical constituents. This study aimed to evaluate ultrasonic-assisted extraction (USE) technique for total phenols content from C. gileadensis leaf compared to the hydrodistillation extraction (HDE). Our results showed that the USE operating conditions were identified as: MeOH·H2O solvent-to-fresh sample ratio of 80:20 (v/v); ultrasonic power/frequency at 150 W/20 kHz; and a temperature of 40 ± 1°C; subjected to acoustic waves intermittently for a calculated time (5 min) during the total programmed time of 12 min. The USE exhibited (118.71 ± 0.009 mg GAE/g DM) more amounts of all phenols than HDE (101.47 ± 0.005 mg GAE/g DM), and antioxidant (77.78 ± 0.73%, 75.27 ± 0.59% scavenging inhibition of DPPH), respectively. Anti-aging and Cytotoxicity activities were investigated. The results of biological evaluations showed that the crude extracts of C. gileadensis significantly extended the replicative lifespan of K6001 yeast. In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity against the HepG2 cell line showed significant anticancer activity, and approximately 100 µg/mL is required to decrease viability compared with that of the control. This study is proven for a larger scale to extract and isolate compounds of C. gileadensis for potential utilization in the pharmaceutical industry. In conclusion, advanced methods afford an extract with high activity in the biological properties of the extract.

Genetic Sequence of Coronavirus Strains Isolated from Iraqi Patients and their Relationship with some Liver Enzymes and Interleukins.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus from the genus Betacoronavirus causes COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019). According to daily reports issued by the Iraqi Ministry of Health, the SARS-COV-2 was firstly detected in Al-Najaf city in February 2020 and identified in the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) in Baghdad, Iraq. The outcomes of this study were based on 100 nasopharyngeal swaps and venous blood samples from hospitalized patients in Al-Kindy and CPHL. Patients were assigned to five groups (Asymptomatic, Mild, Moderate, Severe, and Deceased) based on disease severity as indicated by World Health Organization (WHO). The positive samples were identified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and subjected to some liver enzyme assays and interleukins measurements, and the correlation with the genetic sequence was determined by Illumina Miseq technology. Liver enzymes levels of Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) showed statistically significant differences, especially between the deceased groups. Interleukins (IL-10, IL-18, and TNF- α) significantly differed among groups. This study revealed that three isolates belonging to the original strain isolated from Wuhan (A19) and characterized by their virulence caused severe symptoms and led to admission to isolation hospitals and intensive care units, and the last two isolates of (UK alpha V1) appeared in Iraq in early 2021. These strains which were less virulent than the Wuhan strain spread faster and appear in moderate and asymptomatic patients.

Determination of Ferrous Oxide Nanoparticles Minimum Inhibitory Concentration against Local Virulent Bacterial Isolates.

The improvement of multi-resistance properties of the bacterial pathogen has recently been discussed as an emerging issue. In this regard, iron oxide nanoparticles have attracted the researchers' attention due to their wide application in the realm of medicine. Iron oxide nanoparticles have a high specific surface area that enables them to interact with the bacterial surface structure and has considerable antibacterial activity. The current study aimed to synthesize a novel antimicrobial agent from iron oxide nanoparticles and determine its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) on different gram-positive and negative variant bacterial strains isolated and characterized from the infected urinary tract of Iraqi elderly patients. This study was conducted from September 2020 to December 2020 on 75 urine samples collected from the infected urinary tract of elderly patients in the ages range of 60-75 years admitted to Al-Yarmouk Medical Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq. Isolation of bacterial isolates was carried out using differential and selective media. Afterward, they were characterized and confirmed using different biochemical tests and VITEK 2 system, respectively. Magnetic nanoparticles were fabricated by co-precipitation of ferric ions (Fe3+) and ferrous ions (Fe2+) in presence of ammonium hydroxide solution (25%). The characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was performed subsequently using UV-VIS spectroscopy analysis, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, X-ray Diffraction analysis (XRD), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDX). The MIC of synthesized sonicated Fe3O4NP against different bacterial strains was determined using the broth culture dilution method through making serial dilutions of 50, 100, 200, 400, 500, 600, 800, 900 µg/ml from a 5mg/ml nanoparticle stock solution. Afterward, the lowest concentration of nanoparticles required to arrest the growth of bacteria was determined through the colony-forming unit of each treated bacteria on brain heart infusion agar. In total, 17bacterial isolates were identified from the infected urinary tract, five bacterial isolates (E. coli, Pseudomanas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Micrococcus luteus). In addition, two Proteus mirabilis strains were identified separately and were tested against synthesized Fe3O4NP to determine the MIC. The novel synthesized antibacterial agent showed excellent bioactivity, compared with controls (consisting of bacterial suspension without ferrous oxide nanoparticles), and the synthesized antibacterial agent was considered significantly active against all the bacterial strains at a p-value less than 0.05. The Fe3O4NP were active against gram-negative more than gram-positive bacteria. The MIC of synthesized and characterized Fe3O4NP wasapplied on seven gram-positive and negative bacterial isolates using bacteria-Fe3O4NP complex. Significant effects were observed on all strains, compared with controls, and this complex could significantly inhibit gram-negative more than gram-positive bacteria.

Enamel Remineralization with Novel Bioactive Glass Air Abrasion.

Enamel demineralization or white spot lesions (WSLs) are a frequent complication associated with fixed appliance-based orthodontic treatment. The remineralization potential of a novel fluoride-containing bioactive glass (QMAT3) propelled via an air abrasion system was compared with Sylc glass and artificial saliva on artificially induced WSLs. Thirty extracted human premolars were randomly assigned into 3 groups ( n = 10) per method of treatment and scanned with optical coherence tomography and noncontact profilometer in the 4 enamel states: sound, demineralized, after glass propulsion, and after immersion in artificial saliva. Knoop hardness testing was also performed. Twenty additional prepared teeth samples were also randomly selected for examination by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (2 teeth per technique) under each of the 4 enamel conditions. 19F MAS-NMR (magic angle spinning-nuclear magnetic resonance) was also used to detect the type of apatite formed on the enamel surface. Significant enamel remineralization with surface roughness and intensity of light backscattering similar to that of sound enamel was observed following treatment with QMAT3. In addition, mineral deposits were detected on the remineralized enamel surfaces, forming a protective layer and improving its hardness. This layer was rich in calcium, phosphate, and fluoride; 19F MAS-NMR confirmed the formation of fluorapatite. This finding is particularly beneficial since fluorapatite is more chemically stable than hydroxyapatite and has greater resistance to acid attack. Hence, a promising fluoride-containing bioactive glass for enamel remineralization has been developed, although further clinical evaluation and refinement is required.

Impact of pH and temperature on the electrochemical and semiconducting properties of zinc in alkaline buffer media.

The electrochemical and semiconductive properties of spontaneously formed passive films on pure Zn were investigated in alkaline carbonate/bicarbonate buffer solutions as functions of pH and temperature. The study was performed in 0.1 M (CO3 2- + HCO3 -) mixtures over the pH range 9.2 to 9.8 using open circuit potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization and Mott-Schottky analysis techniques. Generally, zinc passivation is enhanced with either increasing pH or decreasing the ambient temperature. The steady state potential (E ss) value reveals that in pH 9.8 buffer the propensity of Zn for passivation is superior when compared with those in the other tested buffer solutions. The total surface film resistance (R t) derived from the impedance data proves this result, which is likely attributed to changes in composition and/or microstructure of the film. In pH 9.8 buffer solution the passivation tendency always decreases with temperature increase. However, in pH 9.2 the system behaves similarly up to 25 °C; afterwards zinc passivation trend was found to re-increase once more. The apparent activation energy for the corrosion process was evaluated and discussed. Analysis of Mott-Schottky plots was found to be suitable for characterizing the semiconductor properties of the naturally deposited barrier layers which are all consistent with the well-known n-type character of the oxide film on zinc. The absence of any evidences for the p-type semiconductive behavior indicates a preponderance of oxygen vacancies and zinc interstitials over metal vacancies. Moreover, Mott-Schottky results demonstrate that the donor concentration increases with either increasing pH or deceasing temperature commensurate with the increasing trends in the passive film thickness.

Characterization of electrodeposited undoped and doped thin ZnO passive films on zinc metal in alkaline HCO3 -/CO3 2- buffer solution.

Electrochemical characterization of anodically grown thin ZnO films on pure zinc metal was studied in pH 9.2 bicarbonate/carbonate buffer solution. The different undoped passive films were formed potentiostatically in pH 9.2 borate buffer solution at processing anodic voltage (V a) of -1.04, -1.02, -1.0 and -0.99 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). While, various doped ZnO films were fabricated by anodizing the metal at a fixed potential of -1.00 V in the same borate buffer solution containing different amounts of LiCl or InCl3. The electrochemical and semiconducting properties of all formed films were investigated using chronoamperometric measurements, EIS and Mott-Schottky analysis supported by scanning electron microscopy. The impedance results showed a direct correlation between V a and the value of either total resistance (R f) of undoped passive film or its thickness (δ f). It is evident that anodization can afford better conditions for forming thicker compact passive films with more advanced barrier properties. On the other hand, R f decreases with increasing Li-doping level in the oxide film, and increases in case of In-doping. Interestingly, R f values of the doped films are always lower when compared to its value for the undoped film grown at -1.00 V, likely due to possible change in the film microstructure upon doping. For both undoped and doped ZnO films, Mott-Schottky plots reveals unintentional n-type conductivity with high electron density. Moreover, with increasing dopant level in ZnO host materials, Mott-Schottky analysis revealed a parallel correlation between charge carrier donor concentration (N D) and the passive film thickness (δ f), where the trend of their values are to decrease for Li+-doped and to increase for In3+-doped films.

Palestinian nurses' lived experiences working in the occupied West Bank.

BACKGROUND: Since the construction of the separation wall between Israel and the West Bank, Palestinians living in occupied West Bank have endured intense conflict, and severe restrictions on people's movement, trade and healthcare access, all of which resulted in spiralling poverty. These issues have created challenges for nurses that, to date, have not been explored. AIM: To explore the lived experience of Palestinian nurses working in the occupied West Bank. METHODS: Qualitative phenomenological study using interviews with Palestinian nurses working in public hospitals in the West Bank. FINDINGS: Seventeen nurses were interviewed. Despite ongoing experiences of trauma and humiliation, personal/professional role conflicts, political workplace bias and blurred role boundaries, these nurses persevered because of their commitment to caring and sense of moral duty to 'the people of this land'. DISCUSSION: Nurses in conflict areas are subject to layers of trauma. Palestinian nurses in the West Bank not only experience ongoing personal trauma, loss and humiliation of living in a conflict zone but they also experience additional professional trauma. CONCLUSION: The findings provide first-person reports of the unique challenges of nurses working in the occupied West Bank. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Understanding the experiences of nurses working in occupied territories provides authentic information for local authorities and the global healthcare community. Practice improvements must be addressed and implemented. IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTH POLICY: Local and global organizations that mobilize support, invest in human capital, and protect human rights in areas of conflict may benefit from understanding the experiences of nurses in this study.

Seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Renal Transplant Recipient Attending Duhok Kidney Disease Center.

INTRODUCTION: Helicobacter pylori plays an important role in the development of gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric cancer in the general population. Although dyspeptic complaints are frequent in renal transplant subjects, the role of H pylori in such complaints is not clear. This study was conducted to examine the prevalence of H pylori infection in patients with renal transplant and its role in the development of upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared the prevalence of H pylori in 109 renal transplant subjects with the prevalence of 161 healthy volunteers using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to measure anti-H pylori IgG. Then, within the transplant group, we stratified our data in accordance with different variables, including upper GIT symptoms, sex, education level, smoking, and dialysis history. RESULTS: The prevalence of H pylori in the control group was 111 of 161 (68.9%), which was significantly higher than that found in renal transplant subjects (48/109; 43.04%; P = .001). Within the transplant group, no association was found between immunoglobulin G positivity and different variables including upper GIT symptoms, sex, education level, smoking, and dialysis history. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of H pylori was lower in transplant subjects than that of general population. Upper GIT symptoms were equally found in both groups. Hence, the routine eradication of H pylori might not be indicated.

Effect of surfactants on the cementation of cadmium.

The cementation of cadmium ions (Cd(2+)) from aqueous solution onto zinc was studied in two batch reactors, a batch stirred reactor lined with a cylindrical zinc sheet and another that used a rotating zinc cylinder. The rate of cadmium removal was studied as a function of speed of rotation, initial cadmium concentration, and the addition of certain surfactants and their mixtures. Rotational speed and initial cadmium concentration affect the rate of cadmium cementation. It was found that sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) improves the rate of cadmium cementation, while Triton X-100 and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) inhibit it. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated and discussed. Visual observations showed that cadmium deposits on the zinc sheet are in the form of a powder, while cadmium deposits on the zinc cylinder, in the presence of SDS, give porous grains which increases the roughness of the surface, leading to an increase in the cementation rate. The lowest deposit porosity was observed in the presence of CTAB, which corresponds to the highest decrease obtained in the rate of cadmium cementation. The cementation process was successfully applied to recover Cd(2+) spiked into an industrial wastewater sample.

Effect of surfactants on the rate of solid-liquid mass transfer with gas generation at the interface.

The effect of Triton X-100 (nonionic surfactant) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), cationic surfactant, on the mass transfer coefficient of the cathodic reduction of ferricyanide ions and anodic oxidation of ferrocyanide ions at hydrogen- and oxygen-evolving electrodes, respectively, was studied. It was found that the limiting current decreases by amounts ranging from 26.67 to 54.67% for Triton X-100 and from 20 to 46.0% for CTAB in the case of cathodic reduction of ferricyanide ions under natural convection at H2-evolving electrodes and from 23.81 to 51.43% for Triton X-100 and from 18.10 to 40.95% for CTAB in the case of anodic oxidation of ferrocyanide ions under natural convection at O2-evolving electrodes, depending on the concentration of surfactant. Also the effects of Triton X-100 and CTAB on the gas hold-up and cell voltage were studied. The presence of surfactant in electrolytes was found to decrease the mass transfer coefficient by an amount ranging from 5.37 to 95.9%, depending on the operating conditions. Gas hold-up, cell voltage, and power consumption were found to increase in the presence of surfactant.

Endoscopic injection of mitomycin adsorbed on carbon particles for advanced esophageal cancer: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Patients with advanced, unresectable esophageal carcinoma have an extremely poor prognosis, with dysphagia being the major problem. The aim of this prospective pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy of local injections of mitomycin adsorbed onto activated carbon particles (MMC-CH) in advanced unresectable esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma. The primary outcome parameter was survival time; secondary parameters were dysphagia and quality of life. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ten consecutive patients with stage IV esophageal carcinoma (age: median 58, range 32 - 78), median tumor length 11 cm (range 5 - 15) received four weekly injections of 15 mg (10 ml) MMC-CH into the endoscopically visualized tumor, via a 5-mm sclerotherapy needle. The tumor stage, symptom score, and quality of life (measured using the Karnofsky index) were assessed before and after therapy and every 2 months thereafter. RESULTS: The median survival time after MMC-CH therapy was 16 weeks (95 % CI, 11.7 to 20.4). Dysphagia was reduced ( P < 0.001) in parallel with the reduction in the tumor mass ( r = 0.82, P = 0.01). The Karnofsky index ( P < 0.01) also improved after MMC-CH treatment. MMC-CH was well tolerated, and no side effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Endoluminal MMC-CH therapy appears to be an effective, inexpensive, and well-tolerated treatment for unresectable advanced squamous-cell esophageal carcinoma.

Morphological, morphometric and histochemical characterization of the gastric mucosa of the camel (Camelus dromedarius).

Mucosal morphology, morphometry and mucin histochemistry of the stomach were studied in the one-humped camel. The lining of the stomach was divided into eight grossly identifiable regions. The first region was non-glandular, occupied the body of the first compartment of the stomach and constituted 53.2% of the gastric mucosa. The other seven regions were lined by a glandular mucosa. Histological, histochemical and morphometric investigations have shown that glandular mucosa comprises pseudo-cardiac, cardiac, fundic and pyloric regions. The pseudo-cardiac region was characterized by widely separated short tubular serous glands. It constituted 36.2% of the gastric mucosa; it extended over the entire lining of the second compartment and parts of the first and third compartments. The cardiac region was confined to the initial zone of the third compartment amidst the psuedo-cardiac region but contiguous with the distal end of the gastric groove. It constituted 3.4% of the gastric mucosa and was characterized by neutral and acid mucin positive glands. The fundic and pyloric regions occupied the distal distended part of the third compartment. The fundic region constituted 4.3% of the gastric mucosa. It was packed with typical fundic glands characterized by chief cells, parietal cells and acid mucin positive neck cells. The pyloric region constituted 2.9% of the gastric mucosa. Its glands were positive to acid mucins except for their bases that were positive to neutral mucins. Differences in volume densities of the mucosal components and reactivity of the surface epithelium and gastric pits to mucin stains were noted in the different regions of the stomach.

Disposition kinetics of enrofloxacin (Baytril 5%) in sheep and goats following intravenous and intramuscular injection using a microbiological assay.

The pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin were determined in Desert sheep and Nubian goats after intravenous and intramuscular administration of Baytril at the dose of 5mgkg(-1) bodyweight. A two compartment open model best represented the intravenous plasma concentration versus time data in both species. Comparisons between the means of the pharmacokinetic parameters obtained after intravenous administration of enrofloxacin (Baytril) revealed a significantly smaller distribution rate constant (lambda(1)) and consequently a shorter half-life time of distribution in sheep (P<0.05). A larger volume of the central compartment (Vc) was observed in goats (P<0.05). Similar values were obtained for sheep and goats for the remaining parameters. Plasma concentrations versus time data of enrofloxacin after 5mgkg(-1) intramuscular administration of Baytril in sheep and goats were adequately described by one-compartment open model with first order absorption and elimination. There were no significant differences between sheep and goats in any of the estimated pharmacokinetic parameters. The results indicate that the pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin did not differ significantly between sheep and goats; similar intravenous and intramuscular dose rates of enrofloxacin should therefore be applicable to both species. Owing to the high variations in MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) of sensitive veterinary pathogens, it is recommended that enrofloxacin dosage regimens be calculated according to the sensitivity of the individual pathogen, site of infection and clinical response, than by following a preset dosage regimen.

The parotid, mandibular and lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes of the camel (Camelus dromedarius).

The parotid, mandibular and lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes of the dromedary camel were examined using both light and electron microscopy. All three lymph nodes were lobulated. They did not show the characteristic medulla, cortex and paracortex of typical lymph nodes. Instead, they contained lymphatic nodules, dense anodular lymphoid tissue and diffuse lymphoid tissue dispersed throughout the lymph node. Networks of sinuses were present in the diffuse lymphoid tissue. The diffuse lymphoid tissue in the periphery of all lymph nodes examined was characterized by numerous erythrocytes within and around its network of sinuses. The nodal sinuses were contiguous with the septal vessels, which are considered the possible source of erythrocytes seen in this study. The lymph nodes that were seen in this study resembled the haemolymph nodes of other mammals with regard to their content of erythrocytes but were unique in being located in sites that were typical of ordinary lymph nodes. Morphometric analysis has shown that the percentage volume densities of the stroma and the various parenchymal components were similar in the three lymph nodes.

Light and electron microscopic study of the thyroid gland of the camel (Camelus dromedarius).

The thyroid gland of sexually immature dromedary camels was studied using both light and electron microscopy. The thyroid gland contained follicles of different sizes in both summer and winter. However, most of the follicles were large in summer and small in winter. The large follicles were lined by very low cuboidal or semi-squamous follicular cells whereas the small ones were lined by high cuboidal or low columnar follicular cells. Electron microscopy showed that the very low cuboidal follicular cells were poor in organelles and were considered hypoactive. High cuboidal follicular cells on the other hand, were rich in organelles that included mitochondria, cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, secretory vesicles, colloid droplets, heterosomes and autophagic vacuoles; they were considered to be very active. The possible role played by these organelles is synthesis of thyroglobulin and liberation of tri- and tetraiodothyronine is discussed. A few degenerate follicular cells were infrequently encountered in the camel thyroid. Parafollicular (C) cells were not seen in this study either with light or electron microscopy.

Acetylenes and dichloroanisoles from Psathyrella scobinacea.

The Et2O extract from Psathyrella scobinacea culture fluids contained three new acetylenic alcohols: deca-5,7,9-triynol, (-)hepta-4,6-diyne-2,3-diol, and (-)hept-cis 4-en-6-yne-2,3-diol; two known dichloroanisoles: 3,5-dichloro-4-methoxybenzaldehyde and 3,5-dichloro-4-methoxybenzyl alcohol; and three known acetylenic acids: octa-2,4,6-triynoic acid, dec-trans-2-ene-4,6,8-triynoic acid and its cis-isomer.

Disposition kinetics of tylosin administered intravenously and intramuscularly in desert sheep and Nubian goats.

The pharmacokinetic behaviour of tylosin was compared in five Desert sheep and five Nubian goats. The animals were given a single dose of 20% tylosin (15 mg/kg), either intravenously (i.v.) or intramuscularly (i.m.). Following i.v. administration, the volumes of distribution and the elimination half-life times were similar in both species, whereas in goats a greater volume of the central compartment and faster clearance were observed. For the i.m. route, similar pharmacokinetics were observed in both species. The bioavailability (f) of the drug in goats (0.84 +/- 0.11) was not significantly higher than that in sheep (0.73 +/- 0.08). The present study has shown that, despite the significant differences in some of the drug pharmacokinetic parameters between sheep and goats for the i.v. route, identical intravenous and intramuscular dosage regimens of tylosin may be recommended for the two species.

Reconstruction of the supra-aortic trunks.

OBJECTIVE: To review our 10-year experience of reconstruction of the supra-aortic trunks. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Teaching hospital, The Netherlands. SUBJECTS: 47 patients who required reconstruction of the supra-aortic trunks for stenotic or occlusive disease between April 1987 and May 1997. INTERVENTIONS: Right-sided bifurcation graft through a sternotomy (n = 25), left-sided thoracotomy (n = 1), and extra-anatomic bypass (n = 21). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Morbidity, mortality, and long term patency. RESULTS: 3 patients died (6%); 7 (15%) developed major complications (leak from the brachiocephalic stump, n = 2, and acute occlusion of the bypass graft, n = 5) all of which were successfully treated by immediate reoperation; and 9 (19%) developed minor complications, all of which resolved within 3 months. The median follow up was 36 months (range 1-108), and the 3-year patency rate was 80%. No patient died during the follow up period, but a further 3 were lost to follow up. The remaining 41 were all assessed by duplex scanning or angiography, and 3 required further operation for recurrent symptoms; 33 remained completely free of symptoms. CONCLUSION: Symptomatic stenotic or occlusive lesions of the supra-aortic trunks can be treated with acceptable morbidity and mortality, giving long term benefit to patients.

Pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin trihydrate in Desert sheep and Nubian goats.

The pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin were studied in five Desert sheep and five Nubian goats after intravenous (i.v.) or intramuscular (i.m.) administration of a single dose of 10 mg/kg body weight. Following i.v. injection, the plasma concentration-versus-time data were best described by a two-compartment open model. The kinetic variables were similar in both species except for the volume of the central compartment (Vc), which was larger in sheep (p<0.05). Following i.m. injection, except for the longer half-life time of absorption in goats (p<0.05), there were no significant differences in other pharmacokinetic parameters between sheep and goats. The route of amoxicillin administration had no significant effect on the terminal elimination half-life in either species. The bioavailability of the drug (F) after i.m. administration was high (> 0.90) in both species. These results indicate that the pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin did not differ between sheep and goats; furthermore, because of the high availability and short half-life of absorption, the i.m. route gives similar results to the i.v. route. Therefore, identical intramuscular and intravenous dose regimens should be applicable to both species.