Preparation, characterization and evaluation of fast-dissolving silibinin-enriched silymarin [SES]

The hepato-protective activity of silymarin is well demonstrated. However, silymarin is not a single component, but a mixture of silydianin, silychristin and silibinin. Silibinin is the least soluble and the most active component of silymarin. Accordingly, as silibinin content of silymarin increases, its activity is expected to increase. These were the objectives of the study i. e to prepare silibinin enriched silymarin [SES] and enhance its dissolution by preparing its adsorbates and co-adsorbates with Florite. Silibinin enriched silymarin was prepared by extracting the water soluble components of silymarin using water. The silibinin content of the SES was evaluated using HPLC method of assay. The fast dissolving SES systems were characterized using differential scanning calormetry, x-ray diffractometry and infra-red spectroscopy. The obtained results indicated the compatibility of Florite with SES. The biological activity of SES systems was evaluated in rats using paracetamol as a hepatotoxic agent and compared to that of silibinin alone. The results showed that SES-co-adsorbate was more efficient in lowering the serum level of the specific liver enzymes [ALT and AST] than silibinin alone

Controllbd-release prednisolone poly [DL-lactide] microspheres: impact of formulation parameters, characterization and release mechanism

The steroidal drug prednisolone was encapsulated into microspheres using the biodegradable polymer poly [DL-lactide] using emulsion-solvent evaporation method. The produced microspheres were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometery, FT-IR spectroscopy, DSC, and laser light diffraction. The morphology, particle size distribution, encapsulation efficiency [EE%], and drug release showed marked dependence upon formulation parameters viz. initial polymer concentration, surfactant concentration, drug-to-polymer ratio, and volume of the external aqueous phase. The effect of the addition of hydrophilic additives such as PVP or PEG 8000 was also investigated. The encapsulation efficiency percent and the mean particle size were increased by increasing the initial polymer concentration and drug polymer ratio. On the other hand, increasing the surfactant concentration resulted in decreasing the mean particle size and increasing the drug release from the microspheres. The probable mechanism of drug release was estimated and found to be via diffusion through channels and/or pores present within the polymeric matrix. Release data of almost all formulae fitted Higuchi's planar model better than spherical model. This finding could be due to the small extent of drug release [- 40%], or the presence of a large fraction of the encapsulated drug nearby the surface of the microspheres

influence of different storage conditions on the stability of amitriptyline and fluphenazine in biological specimens

The aim of this research is to study the effect of different storage conditions [different temperatures and formalin preservation] on the stability of amitriptyline and fluphenazine in some biological samples. The LD[50] of amitriptyline and fluphenazine were administrated orally to rabbits which were sacrificed two hours after administration of the drugs. The tissues were stored at different conditions for six months. U.V. Spectrophotometer was used for estimation of the drugs at different periods. The results revealed that both amitriptyline and fluphenazine were rapidly declined in samples stored at room temperature [25 - 38°C]. It could not be detected in brain and liver samples at the end of three weeks, in the kidney at the end of four weeks and in plasma at the end of six weeks. While fluphenazine could not be detected in the brain at the end of three weeks, in the kidney and liver at the end of four weeks and in the plasma at the end of six weeks. At fridge temperature [5°C], amitriptyline could not be detected in brain and liver at the end of four weeks, in kidney samples at the end of six weeks. While fluphenazine could not be detected in brain at the end of four weeks, in kidney and liver at the end of six weeks, in plasma both of them couldn't be detected at the end of eight weeks. At freezer temperature [-20°C], amitriptyline could be detected up to the end of six months of the storage in the different samples with different relative recovery percent 80%, 75%, 69.57%, and 63.00% [for plasma, kidney, brain and liver samples respectively]. While fluphenazine could be detected up to the end four months of the storage in the plasma, kidney, and liver with different relative recovery percent [19.77%, 13.88%, and 11.56% respectively]. In brain fluphenazine could be detected up to the end of twelve weeks with a relative recovery percent of 15.76%. In samples preserved in 10% formalin solution, amitriptyline could be detected up to the end of six months of the storage in the different samples with high relative recovery percents [90.81%, 90.18%, 87.84% and 86.14%] for the kidney, plasma, brain, and liver respectively. While fluphenazine could not be detected in brain samples at the end of six weeks. It could not be detected in liver, kidney, and plasma at the end of eight weeks of the storage. In conclusion amitriptyline is stable in tissues stored at freezer [-20°C] and that preserved in formalin solution. While fluphenazine is stable in tissues stored at freezer [-20°C] for sometime, but it is not stable in the samples stored at room temperature, fridge temperature, and in samples preserved in formalin solution

[Impetigo in childhood: study of 93 cases]

Impetigo is a superficial non follicular pyoderma due mainly to staphylococcus aureus and/or to streptococcus pyogenes. It occurs chiefly in childhood. We achieved a retrospective study dealing with 93 cases of impetigo occurring in childhood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological and clinical features of this condition and its management. In our series, the mean age was 4.5 years with no sex predominance. Thirteen patients [14 per cent] had chronic diseases. Atopic dermatitis was seen in only 6.5 per cent of our patients. Impetigo occurred mainly in summer and autumn. The lesions were mostly erosions covered with yellowish crusts. Rarely, it was matter of vesicles and blisters. These lesions were mainly localized on the face. Treatment was based on antiseptic agents in all patients, associated to topical or systemic antibiotics

[Are spring water thermal cures helpful for the treatment of atopic dermatitis?]

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis [AD] is usually high in western countries, varying from 18% to 20% that s why AD is considered as a public health problem. Although the prevalence of AD in Tunisia is not as high as in European countries, recent studies suggest an increasing of this frequency. Spring water thermal cures are considered as a helpful adjuvant measure in the treatment of AD. We present the clinic and therapeutic features of atopic dermatitis and discuss the indication of spring water thermal cures

effect of a biplane symphyseal plate on rigid anterior segment internal fixation of the pelvic ring: a biomechanical study

An experimental study was conducted firstly to test the effect of a newly designed biplane symphyseal plate on rigid anterior segment internal fixation of the pelvic ring, and secondly to test its use in rotationally unstable fractures singly or combined with posterior internal fixation in vertically unstable fractures. The questions posed were: 1] How does the designed plate compare with a single 4.5mm reconstruction plate for anterior symphyseal fixation. 2] How do the anterior and posterior columns of the acetabulum, and the inferior pubic ramus behave in each situation of pelvic compression [anteroposterior or lateral] and shear. Six dry bone pelves were tested to failure after mounting them onto a universal hydraulic testing machine run in a displacement-controlled mode at a rate of 0.5mm/sec. Of the six specimens tested, three were fixed with a standard 4.5mm reconstruction plate, the other 3 were fixed with a biplane plate. Each of the 3 specimens was tested once for APC [anteroposterior compression], once for LC [lateral compression] and once for VS [vertical shear]. The end point of the test was either failure of bone in the form of a fracture or failure of the plate in the form of a screw or more backing out. Strain during loading was also measured using precision strain gauges. Data from the strain gauges were recorded on a computer through a scanner [System 5000/Model 5100 by Vishay company, USA]. The data were analyzed by recording the strain measured from each gauge against time, while the universal hydraulic testing machine applied APC [anteroposterior compression], LC [lateral compression] and VS [vertical shear] on the bony specimen. Data were analyzed using a special software for statistical analysis [SPSS program, version 8.0]. The pelvis fixed with our plate resisted failure in APC, LC and VS more than pelves fixed with a 4.5mm reconstruction plates. In this respect, our results concurred with those of others [9,11,12,15], but differed from other studies [10,14]. The strain gauge system helped us better define the distribution of stresses. Our plate was superior in resorbing tension off both anterior and posterior columns in APC and VS. Thus in both of these injuries it unloads posterior fixation devices, although in APC the inferior pubic ramus showed less compression but higher tension with our plate. In LC the tension in the posterior column was much higher in our plate, indicating its inferior capacity to unload posterior fixation devices in such a situation. Concluding, the biplane contoured pelvic plate was superior in fixing unstable pelvic fractures anteriorly; it had also the advantage of being extensile and allowed the insertion of a retrograde pubic ramus screw through the anterior holes

Outcome of internal fixation for unstable pelvic fractures: a series of 30 cases

A clinical study was conducted with the aim of finding the best methods for fixing the different types of unstable pelvic ring injuries, assessing the functional outcome after the various techniques and types of implants used and the union rate of pelvic fractures. Thirty patients, 26 males and 4 females, with a mean age of 31 years underwent open reduction and internal fixation for pelvic ring injuries. The mechanisms of injury were all high-energy injuries, 11 patients were hit by motor vehicles [pedestrian accidents] [37%], 10 patients were involved in motor vehicle accidents [MVA] [33%], 3 patients had crushing injuries [10%], 3 patients fell from heights [10%], and 3 patients were involved in motorcycle accidents [10%]. Fractures were classified according to both Young [13,14] and Tile [1] classification systems. All patients were evaluated preoperatively using the st and ard radiographs: AP, inlet, and outlet views, and CT scans. The operative treatment consisted of a combination of anterior and posterior fixation in 20 cases, posterior internal fixation alone was used in 5 cases and anterior external fixation was added to posterior fixation in 5 cases. Postoperatively, patients were followed-up for a mean of 12 months [range 6-24 months] and were evaluated using the Majeed score [27]. Our results revealed the following. One patient died postoperatively. Radiologically, one had a poor result, 16 patients were excellent, 11 were good, and 2 had fair reductions. The mean Majeed [27] score was 82 [range 66-95] among the 29 patients, 21 patients scored 75 points or higher [72%], and 8 patients scored between 75 and 66 [28%], and one patient died 2 weeks postoperatively. We come to the following conclusions. Unstable pelvic fractures require an aggressive and well-planned therapeutic regimen. Combined anterior and posterior internal fixation is the optimal treatment for vertically and rotationally unstable fractures. Stabilization must be tailored to the individual fracture, the surgeon must be familiar with all the techniques and able to perform them confidently. Reduction to within 10mm seems to be adequate for functional results. Anterior symphyseal diastasis is best treated by internal fixation using a single 4.5mm reconstruction plate on the superior surface of the pubic bones with either 4.5mm cortical screws or 6.5mm cancellous screws, the approach used is a Pfannenstiel approach without cutting the rectii. Fractures of the pubic rami are usually stable and do not require an extensive surgical approach, so they are best treated by anterior external fixation with posterior fixation or bed rest until patient is able to perform straight leg raising. They should be fixed when present medially, and are associated with symphyseal diastasis requiring plate fixation. Sacroiliac joint dislocations or Denis zone I sacral fractures are best treated by percutaneous cannulated 7.0mm iliosacral screws in the supine position as this allows combining anterior fixation simultaneously. Denis zone II sacral fractures can either be treated by open reduction through a posterior para-median approach in the prone position. This method is preferred, since it allows removal of bony fragments from the foramina and avoids overcompression of the foramina and hence iatrogenic nerve injuries. Alternatively, percutaneous iliosacral screws can be used, in this case they must be fully threaded to avoid overcompression of the foramina. Denis zone III sacral fractures are actually spine fractures. SI fracture dislocations are best approached anteriorly with the patient supine and fixed with two 3-4 hole 4.5mm reconstruction plates with one screw in the sacral ala, and 2 screws in the iliac side. Iliac fractures associated with vertically and rotationally unstable fractures are best treated by 4.5mm cortical interfragmentary screws between the 2 tables supported by neutralizing 4.5mm reconstruction plates through an anterior or posterior iliac approach. Sacral bars allow for vertical displacement of the hemipelvis so should be reserved for use when the surgeon is not familiar with the technique of percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation. The 3.5mm reconstruction plates should be reserved for use in thin bones, or in female patients. For stabilization of the posterior pelvic ring injuries, the supine position is preferred whenever possible, especially in polytrauma situations. Using either anterior plating of the SI joint or percutaneous iliosacral screws is recommended. Percutaneous iliosacral lag screws can be performed quickly and safely, they can restore posterior alignment and accomplish stable fixation except in very comminuted sacral fractures; therefore the need for an open posterior approach is minimized. The surgeon should decide which fracture to fix first according to the patient and the fracture. Generally, percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation in the supine position allows simultaneous anterior open reduction, as after the pelvis has been reduced both anteriorly and posteriorly, radiographic images are taken, then iliosacral screws are inserted and the anterior plate is fixed. The same is applicable with the anterior approach to the SI joint

Physicochemical studies on phenanthroline metal complexes

Complexes of 1,10-phenanthroline [phen] with transition metal ions were prepared. Complexes of the type [M[phen]3]X.H2O were obtained. The electronic and vibrational spectra of these complexes indicate that these complexes are octahedrally coordinated. Crystal field parameters were calculated from transition energy diagrams. Magnetic moments of these complexes were determined. Thermal conductivity data indicate that these complexes behave as semi conducting materials. This work might well make the first part of a worthwhile study

Formulation and evaluation of hydrochlorothiazide liquisolid tablets

The technique of liquisolid preparations was used to formulate hydrochlorothiazide, a model drug, in tablet form. Drug solution in peg200 was blended with different common tablet excipients such as Avicel, Aerosil, Calcium phosphate, Magnesium oxide, and Magnesium carbonate. The drug admixtures were directly compressed into tablets. The dissolution rates of the liquisolid tablets were determined according to USP basket method. The obtained dissolution profiles were compared to that of a reference tablet, made by simple trituration of drug powder with avicel, and a commercial product. The results showed that, generally, liquisolid tablets present a significantly higher dissolution rate. A

Interleukin - 2 in chronic bronchitis and the role of immunotherapy

This study was planned to determine the levels of interleukin-2 [IL-2] in the serum and bronchoalveolar lavage [BAL] of patients with chronic bronchitis and to detect these levels after oral immunization using polyvalent bacterial extract, bronchovaxom [BV]. 10 patients [5 males and 5 females] with non-obstructive chronic bronchitis were included in the study with 10 healthy volunteers [5 males and 5 females]. The levels of IL-2 were measured in the serum and BAL of all patients and in the serum of the control group before and after BV. There was a significant difference between the IL-2 levels in BAL and in the serum of patients with chronic bronchitis before oral immunization. Also, there was a significant statistical increase in IL-2 levels in BAL of patients after BV compared with its levels before BV, while there was no significant change in the serum IL-2 level after BV administration. The study showed significant clinical improvement after oral immunization associated with significant improvement in the local bronchial immunity with no modifications in the systemic immunity

Diagnostic scannographique des surdites de perception: a propos de 42 cas

Forty two patients with perception deafness were explored in Thameur and la Rabta hospitals of Tunis between 1988 and 1991. The authors compared results of auditory functional exploration with those of CT scan. This study confirmed the auditory importance of evoked potentials which guide the indication of CT scan for retracochlear deafnesses. CT scan easily identifies nature, extension and surveillance after treatment

interest of the scanner in the exploration of primitive gastric lymphoma: [about 5 cases]

Five cases of primitif gastric lymphoma had been explored by scanner- the different aspects are: - a thick gastric wall [10 to 75 mm]. an abdominal tumoral syndrom in relation with a gastric mass in under serous extrinsic development. -an invade of adjacent organs. - the scanner, also, gives an evaluation of the local an far extension of the tumor. It brings a contribution for the diagnosis, and the following of the treatment. It permits to avoid the surgery

Effect of calcium antagonists on left ventricular and ventilatiory functions in patients with ischaemic heart and obstructive airway disease

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of calcium antagonists on left venticular and ventilatory functions in patients with ischaemic heart disease associated with obstructive lung disease. The material of this work comrised [10] healthy subject as a control group and [20] patients with symtomatizing ischaemic heart disease associated with obstructive airways diseases- as a test group, the test group was divided into two subgroups, one assigned for use of Verapamil [10] patients and the other for Nifedipine [10] patients. After taking detailed clinical history and parforming careful physical examination, all patients were subjected to, urine and stool analysis, fasting blood sugar X- ray film ECG, measurements of systolic time intervals [STIs] including [Q-S21], PEP1, LVET and PEP/ LVET ratio] and ventilatory function tests, including [FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC%]. STIs and ventilatory parameters were done before and in the 10[th] day of using either Verapamil or Nifedipine. Comparative analysis of STIs in both subgroups assigned for use of either Verapamil or Nifedipine showed left ventricular dysfunction as shown from the significant prolongation of PEPI, shortening of LVET and rise in PEP/LVET ratio, also insignificant prolongation of Q-S21 was observed, indicating mild left ventricular dysfunction. On the other hand, comparing the same parameters of STIs after versus before use of either Verapamil or Nifedipine. Showed no significant prolongation of PEPI, shortening of LIVT1 or rise in PEP/LVET ratio. Comparative analysis of ventilatory parameters after versus before the use either Verapamil or Nifedipine Showed non-significant changs. It may be concluded, that left ventricular dysfunction is found in patients with ischaemic heart disease associated with obstructive airways disease, and the use of either Verapamil or Nifedipins drugs is safe in such patients, as they produces mild negative inotropy and left ventricular dysfunction which were short of significance and negligable in comparison to its benificial effect, on the other hand have no adverse or improving effect on ventilatory function in patients with chronic obstructive airway diseases