rare anatomical variation of the brachial plexus characterized by the absence of the musculocutaneous nerve

Knowing of anatomical variations is very important during surgery, autopsy and cadaver dissection in the axillary region. In this study, a unilateral variation of the brachial nerve plexus, which is characterized by the absent of the musculocutaneous nerve [MCN], was found in the right arm of a male cadaver. The MCN normally originates from the lateral cord of the brachial nerve plexus and innervates the anterior brachial compartment muscles and lateral coetaneous of the forearm. In this case, the lateral cord of the brachial plexus was joined to the median nerve at the level of coracoid process with no evidence of any nerve braches from lateral cord to the anterior brachial compartment muscles. These muscles were innervated from some branches of median nerve directly

[Preparation, characterization and biological assessment of polycaprolactone/starch composites for bone tissue engineering applications]

Biodegradable polycaprolactone/starch composites can be used for bone tissue engineering applications. The effect of the ratio of components on composite properties is of tremendous importance. Polycaprolactone/starch composite of 80/20 and 70/30 ratios were fabricated by dissolving them in chloroform followed by evaporation of the solvent. The composites were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Their bioactivity was evaluated by studying the apatite formation ability after immersing the specimens in simulated body fluid. The results of compressive test on samples showed that the composite's modulus and strength approximated that of human trabecular bone. Mass loss in distilled water and starch degradation rate in PBS was evaluated, which showed that the starch ratio was effective in composite degradation. MTT analysis and alkaline phosphatase levels showed that this composite had no toxicity and could increase G-299 cell line osteoblastic activities. The increase in cellular osteoblastic activities and the ability for apatite formation on the composite surface, in addition to the polycaprolactone/starch samples' mechanical properties shows their capability to be used as substitutes for bone. Because this composite degradation rate is controlled by changing the starch ratio, it has the potential for use in bone tissue engineering applications. Samples that have a 70/30 ratio are considered optimal due to their enhanced cellular response and better mechanical properties

[Early complication of anterior cruciat ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon- bone graft]

Anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] tear is one of the most common knee injuries among young adults and sportman. They need reconstruction when they are accompanying with other knee internal derangements to prevent knee osteoarthritis. This study was designed to explore early complication of anterior cruciat ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon- bone graft. This prospective and cross-sectional study was done on 13 patients which refered to Qaern hospital in Mashhad-lran during 2008. The first 3 months complications and problems of anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions, with bone-patellar tendon, bone graft technique, was recorded on regular basis, symptoms and signs were documented. Anterior knee pain and knee stiffness were common as 70% and 38% respectively. We did not observe any infection but in 15% of patients a minor instability [ADT+] was detected. Patients cooperation was low and even 54% of them did not implement, post-operative advices. This study showed that minor instability and subsequent pain are the early problems during the first three month after anterior cruciate ligament constraction