GABA changes in narcotic addiction

Changes in the plasma concentration of 8-amino butyric acid [GABA], the main inhibitory inhibitory neurotransmitter were studied in different types of narcotic drug addiction. Forty four adult male addicts were investigated. Simultaneously, urine analysis for detection of opiates, barbiturates and cannabmoids excreted during withdrawal and after withdrawal periods was done. Plasma concentration of GABA, showed a highly significant rise [P > 0.001] in addicts, when compared to normal healthy controls. The increase of mean values of GABA showed direct relation to the duration of addiction, although statistically nonsignificant. The rise of GABA was more pronounced in barbiturates than in opiates addiction during the withdrawal period, after which a decline of concentration was observed in barbiturate addicts, but still above the normal level, while opiate addicts showed a maintained significant rise. Combined narcotic addiction showed higher level of GABA, except in case of barbiturates with cannabinoids, indicating different mechanisms of drug interaction

Histopathological and serum enzyme changes in fatal electric shock

Thirty adult albino rats were killed by electrocution, Using alternating house-hold current, of 220 volts, They were divided to three groups, each consisted of 10 rats. The electrodes were connected to either forelimb hindlimb [gr. II], both forelimbs [gr. II], or head-hindlimb [gr. Ill]. Ten animals served as control of the study [Group IV]. The gross and histopathological changes of the main vital organs [heart, lungs, and brain] and the big blood vessels involved in the electric circuits were studied. Congestion, dilatation, intravascular thrombotic aggregates, and rupture with perivascular hemorrhages' were frequently observed. Degenerative and necrotic cellular damage of the myocardium and cerebral neurons, could be detected. The extent of damage varied according to the direction of the current. There were a significant rise in both STDH and SGOT while SGPT and SALP enzymes showed non significant changes

Liver involvement in munition workers due to multiple chemical exposure

73 male workers in the explosive industry were examined clinically; laboratory investigations were done detect liver affection. SGOT, SGPT and alkaliue phosphatase were found significantly high [p < 0.001]. The serum protein and albumin were decreased while alpha 1, alpha 2 and gama globulin were increased and these were statistically significant. Lead and copper were increased while iron and zinc were decreased and these also were statistically significant. These findings indicate liver affection which can be attributed to exposure to T. N. T. glycol derivarives, organic solvents and lead stearate. Regarding the neurological effects, the salient features were peripheral neuritis, muscle weakness and headache

Acute toxicity of some organic solvents in albino rats

In a trial to verify the cause of Volatile Solvent Abuse [VSA] the acute toxicity of some commonly abused organic solvents were studied in albino rats exposed to the LD 50 of either acetone, toluene or xylene. Blood lipids and histopathological changes were studied in both dead and lwing animals. Electro-Cardiographic tracing was done to the control and survived intoxicated rats. The results obtained suggested profound hyperlipemia, structural damage and myocardial disturbances. Strict legislative measures are recommended