Antibacterial activity of Salvadora persica against oral pathogenic bacterial isolates

Objective

The objective was to determine the antibacterial activity of Salvadora persica extract against bacteria isolated from dental plaque of patients.

Materials and Methods

Out of 40 different clinical specimens collected from patients suffering from plaque-induced gingivitis, 12 Staphylococcus aureus and 8 Streptococcus sp. isolates were recovered. The isolates were screened for their biofilm-forming capacity using tissue culture plate (TCP), tube method (TM), and congo red agar (CRA) method. Antibacterial activity of methanolic S. persica extract as well as of commercial antimicrobials against tested isolates was performed. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) and gas chromatography-MS (GC-MS) analysis were performed for S. persica crude extract and its volatile oil, respectively, to determine their constituents.

Results

Out of 20 isolates, 80%, 85%, and 90% showed positive results using TM, CRA, and TCP, respectively. The highest antimicrobial activity of methanolic S. persica extract was observed at 200 mg/ml. HPLC-MS analysis shows many polyphenols in S. persica extract such as Chrysin-8-c-β-D-glucopyranoside, ferulic acid, gallic acid, and stigmasterol. Chemical composition of the essential oil of S. persica was determined by GC-MS yield; a mixture of monoterpene and hydrocarbons. The major compounds were butylated hydroxytoluene followed by benzene (isothiocyanatomethyl).

Conclusion

Methanolic extract of S. persica had significant antibacterial effect against S. aureus and Streptococcus sp. isolates, and it may be gave a good alternative method for controlling oral pathogen.

Modeling of the hemodynamics in the feet of patients with peripheral artery disease

To simulate the hemodynamic effects in the feet in response to a thigh cuff occlusion, we have developed a multi-compartmental model in which the circulatory system for the leg is represented by its electrical equivalents. Dynamic vascular optical tomographic imaging data previously obtained from 20 patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and 20 healthy subjects is used to test the model. Analyzing the clinical data with the support of the model yields diagnostic specificity and sensitivity in the 90-95% range, significantly higher than previously reported.

Neuroblastoma stem cells - mechanisms of chemoresistance and histone deacetylase inhibitors

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) form a small proportion of tumor cells that have stem cell properties: self-renewal capacity, the ability to develop into different lineages and proliferative potential. The interest in CSCs emerged from their expected role in initiation, progression and recurrence of many tumors. They are generally resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. There are two hypotheses about their origin: The first assumes that CSCs may arise from normal stem cells, and the second supposes that differentiated cells acquire the properties of CSCs. Both hypotheses are not mutually exclusive, as it is possible that CSCs have a diverse origin in different tumors. CD133+ cells (CD133 is marker of CSC in some tumors) isolated from NBL, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma cell lines are resistant to cisplatin, carboplatin, etoposide and doxorubicin than the CD133- ones. Being resistant to chemotherapy, there were many attempts to target CSCs epigenetically including the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors. The diverse influence of valproic acid (histone deacetylase inhibitor) on normal and cancer stem cells was proved in different experiments. We have found an increase percentage of CD133+ NBL cells after their incubation with VPA in a dose that does not induce apoptosis. Further researches on CSCs and clinical application for their detection are necessary: (i) to define the CSC function in carcinogenesis, cancer development and their role in metastasis; (ii) to find a specific marker for CSCs in different tumors; (iii) to explain the role of different pathways that determine their behavior and (iv) to explain mechanisms of chemoresistance of CSCs.

A wireless handheld probe with spectrally constrained evolution strategies for diffuse optical imaging of tissue

We present a low-cost, portable, wireless diffuse optical imaging device. The handheld device is fast, portable, and can be applied to a wide range of both static and dynamic imaging applications including breast cancer, functional brain imaging, and peripheral artery disease. The continuous-wave probe has four near-infrared wavelengths and uses digital detection techniques to perform measurements at 2.3 Hz. Using a multispectral evolution algorithm for chromophore reconstruction, we can measure absolute oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration as well as scattering in tissue. Performance of the device is demonstrated using a series of liquid phantoms comprised of Intralipid(®), ink, and dye.

Thioglycolic acid and pyrazole derivatives of 4(3H)-quinazolinone: synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation

New derivatives of 4(3H)-quinazolinone were synthesized and evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activity. The derivatives are: 3-Aryl-2-[3-aryl-1-(carboxymethylthio)-3-oxopropyl)]-4(3H)-quinazolinones 2a-f; 3-Aryl-2-(3-aryl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolinones 3a-f; 3-Aryl-2-(1,3-diaryl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolinones 4a-f; 3-Aryl-2-(3-aryl-1-thiocarbamoyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolinones 5a-f; 3-Aryl-2-[3-aryl-1-(carboxymethylthio)-3-hydroxyiminopropyl)]-4(3H)- quinazolinones 6a-f; and 3-Aryl-2-[3-aryl-1-(carboxymethy- lthio)-3-thiocarbamoyliminopropyl)]-4(3H)-quinazolinones 7a-f. Some of the tested compounds showed activity comparable to that of the standard references used.

Soil-atmosphere exchange of radiatively and chemically active gases

Exchanges between the soils and the atmosphere may control or significantly affect the global budgets of many environmentally important trace gases, both natural and man-made. Flux measurements, taken in several ecosystems, show that soils are a substantial source of chloroform (8 +/- 4 microg/m(2)/d) and a sink for methyl chloride (-10(-3)(+6) microg/m(2)/d). The known sources and sinks of these gases are insufficient to explain the observed concentrations. Our findings will help to balance the global budget of chloroform but may put the budget of methyl chloride further out of balance. We also found, consistent with previous research, that soils are a substantial source of nitrous oxide and carbon monoxide and take up hydrogen and methane. The uptake of man-made chlorocarbons was observed, but the rates are small. Observed fluxes of non-methane hydrocarbons showed few patterns except that soils may be a source of ethane and butane.

African histoplasmosis: report of four cases from north-eastern Nigeria

Four cases of African histoplasmosis with lesions of the skin, subcutaneous tissues and lymph nodes diagnosed histologically are described from the Borno State of Nigeria. Three of the cases were autochthonous to this State, whereas the fourth one originated from the Anambra State of Nigeria. These cases constitute the first record of African histoplasmosis from the arid zone of the north-eastern part of Nigeria.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents: synthesis of novel benzopyrazolyl, benzoxazolyl and quinazolinyl derivatives of 4(3 H)-quinazolinones

Four novel series of 4(3 H)-quinazolinone derivatives have been synthesized by cyclization of the intermediate 3-aryl-2-(6-aryl-2-cyclohexen-1-on-5-yl)-4(3 H)-quinazolinones 3a-f with hydrazine, phenylhydrazine, hydroxylamine and thiourea. The products are 3-aryl-2-(6-aryl-3-methyl-1 H-4,5-dihydrobenzo[d]pyrazol-4-yl)-4(3 H)-quinazolinones 4a-f; 3-aryl-2-(6-aryl-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1 H-4,5-dihydrobenzo[d]pyrazol-4-yl)-4(3 H)-quinazolinones 4g-1; 3-aryl-2-(6-aryl-3-methyl-4,5-dihydrobenzo[d]-1,2-oxazol-4-yl)-4(3 H)-quinazolinones 5a-f, and 3-aryl-2-(7-aryl-4-methyl-5,6-dihydro-2(1 H)thioxoquinazolin-5-yl)-4(3 H)-quinazolinones 6a-f. Some of these compounds showed anti-inflammatory activity comparable to or higher than that of the reference compound proquazone.

Steroidal anti-inflammatory antedrugs: synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of 16 alpha-alkoxycarbonyl-17-deoxyprednisolone derivatives

In a continuing effort to minimize the systemic adverse effects of potent anti-inflammatory steroids, a series of 16 alpha-alkoxycarbonyl-17-deoxyprednisolone derivatives: methyl (8a), ethyl (8b), isopropyl (8c), and benzyl (8d) 11 beta,21-dihydroxy-3,20-dioxo-1,4-pregnadiene-16 alpha-carboxylate, was synthesized and evaluated for their topical and local anti-inflammatory activities. In the acute croton oil-induced ear edema dose-response bioassay, the topical anti-inflammatory potencies of these esters relative to prednisolone, 1, were: 8a:1.0, 8b:1.3, 8c:4.0, 8a:4.7 and 1:1.0. The putative metabolite, 11 beta,21-dihydroxy-3,20-dioxo-1,4-pregnadiene-16 alpha-carboxylic acid, 7, was inactive in this test. A seven day cotton pellet granuloma bioassay was employed to study the local and systemic anti-inflammatory activities of these steroids. The local anti-inflammatory potencies of these esters relative to prednisolone, 1, were 1.3, 1.5, 2.3, 2.5, and 1.0 for 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, and 1, respectively. In this semi-chronic study, only prednisolone exhibited significant untoward side effects, such as reduction in thymus weights, normal body weight gain, and normal plasma corticosterone levels. The increase in the topical and local potencies of these steroid esters was consistent with the increase in their 1-octanol/buffer partition coefficient. The ratio of local to systemic anti-inflammatory activity of 8c and 8d was four times that of prednisolone. The effects of increasing the size of the alkoxy group of these new steroids on both topical and local anti-inflammatory activity and their concomitant decrease in untoward systemic effects were unequivocally demonstrated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Linear least squares method for time series analysis with an application to a methane time series

A simple method of time series analysis, based upon linear least squares curve fitting, is developed. The method's advantages and disadvantages are discussed, and an example is presented using the Vostok Core methane record.

Lead, erythrocyte protoporphyrin, and hematological parameters in normal maternal and umbilical cord blood from subjects of the Riyadh region, Saudi Arabia

A survey was undertaken among 124 pregnant women living in Riyadh City to investigate the passage of lead from the pregnant mother to the unborn child. The mean maternal blood lead level was 5.49 +/- 2.6 micrograms/dl and for the umbilical cord was 4.14 +/- 1.81 micrograms/dl. Lead levels were higher in maternal than in the umbilical cord blood. The results are in agreement with other studies. In this study, an excellent correlation between the maternal and cord blood lead levels (r = .83, p < .0001) confirms the transfer of lead from the mother to the fetus. A weak but significant relationship was found between maternal blood lead concentrations and birth weight of newborns (r = -.271, p < .05), and it is concluded that low levels of lead exposure to pregnant women may be considered hazardous.

Meloidogyne javanica Parasitic on Peanut

Peanut fields in four governorates of Egypt were surveyed to identify species of Meloidogyne present. Fourteen populations obtained from peanut roots were all identified as M. javanica based on perineal patterns, stylet and body lengths of second-stage juveniles, esterase phenotypes, and restriction fragment length polymorphisms of mtDNA. Three of 14 populations, all from contiguous fields in the Behara governorate, had individuals with a unique two-isozyme esterase phenotype. All populations of M. javanica tested on peanut had levels of reproduction on the M. arenaria-susceptible peanut cultivar Florunner that were not different from M. arenaria (P = 0.05), and had lower levels of reproduction on the M. arenaria-resistant genotype TxAG-7 than on Florunner (P = 0.05). Reproduction of the five Egyptian populations of M. javanica tested was lower on root-knot nematode resistant tomato cultivars Better Boy and Celebrity than on the root-knot nematode susceptible cultivar Rutgers (P = 0.05). These data are evidence that some populations of M. javanica are parasitic on peanut and that the peanut and tomato genotypes resistant to M. arenaria are also resistant to these populations of M. javanica.

Novel fluorinated antiinflammatory steroid with reduced side effects: methyl 9 alpha-fluoroprednisolone-16-carboxylate

In an effort to test the hypothesis that 9 alpha-fluorination of a steroidal antedrug would enhance receptor binding affinity and local antiinflammatory activity, without concomitantly increasing adverse systemic effects, a fluorinated analog, 10, of methyl 11 beta, 21-dihydroxy- 3,20-dioxo-1,4-pregnadiene-16 alpha-carboxylate (DP16CM, 1) was synthesized and evaluated. In the acute rat croton oil-induced ear edema bioassay, 10 was found to be twice as potent as 1. This increase in topical potency was consistent with enhanced binding affinity of 10, relative to 1. The IC50 values for displacement of [3H]dexamethasone from glucocorticoid receptors of rat hepatoma tissue culture cells were 0.16, 1.2, and 0.03 microM for 10, 1, and prednisolone, respectively. Following multiple topical ID50 applications of predniosolone, 1, and its new fluorinated analog, 10, in the rat subacute croton oil-induced ear edema bioassay, only prednisolone exhibited significant untoward effects, such as reduction in relative thymus and adrenal weights, plasma corticosterone levels, and normal body weight gain. Thus, while fluroination of 1 enhanced its topical potency, there was not a concomitant increase in untoward systemic effects. This lack of adverse systemic effects is ostensibly due to the presence of the metabolically labile 16-carboxylate ester moiety.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents: novel pyrazolyl-, 1,2-oxazolyl-, and 1,3-diazinyl derivatives of 4(3H)-quinazolinones

Four novel series of 4(3H)-quinazolinone derivatives have been prepared by cyclization of the key intermediates 3-aryl-2-(3-aryl-3-oxopropenyl)-4-(3H)-quinazolinones with different reagents: 3-aryl-1-iminocarbamoyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolines, 3-aryl-2-(3-aryl-1-thiocarbamoyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolines, 3-aryl-2-(3-aryl-4,5-dihydro-1,2-oxazol-5-yl)-4(3H)-quinazolinones , and 3-aryl-2-(4-aryl-2-thioxo-1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1,3-diazin-6-yl )-4(3H)- quinazolinones. The antiinflammatory activity of representatives of these compounds is comparable to or higher than that of proquazone.

Synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation of novel oxa(thia)diazolylquinolines and oxa(thia)diazepino[7,6-b] quinolines

Three novel series of quinoline derivatives have been prepared by cyclization of the intermediate 3[(substituted)thiocarbamoyl-hydrazonomethyl]-2-chloroquinoline s and 3-aroylhydrazonomethyl-2-chloroquinolines: 3-(3-Acetyl-5-(substituted)-2,3-dihydro-1,3,4-oxa(thia)diazol-2-yl )-2- chloroquinolines (4; 5), 3-(5-(substituted)-1,3,4-oxa(thia)diazol-2-yl)-2-chloroquinolin es (6; 7), and 2-(substituted)-1,3,4-oxa(thia)diazepino[7,6-b]quinolines (8; 9). The antimicrobial activity of these compounds was studied.

Repair of symptomatic pseudoarthrosis of anterior cervical fusion. Posterior versus anterior repair

Thirty-four patients with symptomatic pseudarthrosis of anterior cervical fusion were treated. There were 16 men and 18 women. Eighteen patients had pseudarthrosis at 1 level; 14 at 2 levels; and 2 at 3 levels, with C5-6 and C6-7 levels most commonly involved. Anterior repair of pseudarthrosis was done in 17 patients, which resulted in 76% radiologic fusion. Of 17 patients repaired posteriorly, 94% achieved radiologic fusion. Average follow-up was 60 months, with a minimum of 24 months. "Excellent" or "Good" results were achieved in 59% of anterior repair and 88% of posterior fusion group. This study demonstrates that posterior cervical fusion is the more effective method for repairing symptomatic pseudarthrosis of anterior cervical fusion.

Correlation of radiologic assessment of lumbar spine fusions with surgical exploration

Although inspection of posterolateral lumbar fusion is the best method of determining its solidity, routine exploration of the fusion is somewhat impractical because of the morbidity and expense involved. Removal of internal fixation devices or implantable batteries or reoperation for failed back surgery enabled the exploration and assessment of lumbar spine fusions in 214 operations on 175 patients. The preoperative radiologic assessment (plain roentgenographs, polytomography, bending films, and computed tomographic scans) were correlated with surgical findings. This study indicated a significant percentage of inaccuracy of all radiologic modalities used. Noncorrelations were present in 36% of plain roentgenographs, 41% of polytomograms, 38% of bending films, and 43% of computed tomographic scans. Radiologic inaccuracy was manifest on both the positive and negative sides. Computed tomographic scanning presented the lowest percentage of inaccuracy (22%) and bending films the highest percentage (27%). Based on these findings, there exists the need for more accurate noninvasive methods to determine the solidity of spine fusions.

Synthesis, antimicrobial, inotropic, and chronotropic activities of novel 1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]quinolines

Starting from the 2-quinolylhydrazine 1 the title compounds were prepared according to Schemes 1 and 2. Some of them show activities described in the title of this paper.

Synthesis of some thiazole-, 1,3,4-thiadiazole-, and 4H-1,2,4-triazole derivatives of pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinoline

Three novel series of pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinolines were prepared, namely: 1-(3-substituted-4-phenylthiazolin-2-ylidene)hydrazinocarbonylm ethyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinolines 3a-d; 1-(5-substituted amino-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinolines 4b-d, and 1-(4-substituted-4H-5- thioxo-1,2,4-triazole-3-yl)methyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinolines 5a-d. These compounds were prepared by cyclization of the new key intermediates 1-(substituted thiocarbamoylhydrazinocarbonyl)methyl-1H- pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinolines 2a-d. The alkylthio, aralkylthio 6a-f as well as the Mannich bases 8a-f derived from compounds 5a-d were also prepared. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by elemental analyses, IR, 1H-NMR-, and mass spectra. The antimicrobial as well as inotropic and chronotropic activities were studied.

Non-steroidal antiinflammatory agents. Synthesis of novel 2-pyrazolyl-4(3H)-quinazolinones

Four novel series of pyrazolyl-4(3H)-quinazolinones have been prepared through the reaction of 3-aryl-2-hydrazino-4(3H)-quinazolinones with antipyrylazo-derivatives of ethyl acetoacetate, acetylacetone or diethyl malonate. These series of compounds are 3-aryl-2-[1-ethoxycarbonyl-1-(1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H - pyrazol-4-yl)hydrazono-2-propylidene]hydrazino-4(3H)-quinazo linones; 3-aryl-2-[4-(1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) hydrazono-3-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]-4(3H)-quinaz olinones; 3-aryl-2-[4-(1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)azo -3,5- dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]-4(3H)-quinazolinones and 3-aryl-2-[4-(1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) hydrazono-3,5-dioxo-pyrazolidin-2-yl]-4(3H)-quinazolinones. The antiinflammatory activity of some representatives of the prepared compounds was studied.

Synthesis of novel naphtho[2,1-b]-1,4,5-oxa- or thiadiazepines as potential antimicrobial and anticancer agents

Two novel series of quinone derivatives have been synthesized. Thus, condensation of 2-ethoxycarbonylmethylthio-; 3-ethoxycarbonylmethylthio-2-methyl- and 3-ethoxycarbonylmethoxy-2-methyl derivatives of 1,4-naphthoquinone with substituted phenylhydrazines afforded the corresponding hydrazones, while cyclization of the same quinones with the same substituted hydrazines in glacial acetic acid gave the corresponding naphtho[2,1-b]-1,4,5-oxa- or thiadiazepine derivatives. The antimicrobial and anticancer activities of the synthesized compounds were studied.

Antilipidemic agents, III: Synthesis of some heterocyclic derivatives of beta-sitosterol

Four novel series of heterocyclic derivatives of beta-sitosterol were prepared by the reaction of 3-beta-sitosterol hemisuccinate with SOCl2 then with thiols, amines or phenols. These series are: 3 beta-[(3-substituted-4(3H)-quinazolinon-2- yl)thiocarbonylproprionyloxy]stigmast-5-ene; 3 beta- ([4-substituted-5-(4-pyridyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl] thiocarbonylpropionyloxy)stigmast-5-ene; 3 beta- [(5-substituted-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)carbamoylpropionyloxy] stigmast-5-ene and 3 beta-(substituted carbamoyl or oxycarbonylpropionyloxy)stigmast-5-ene. The antilipidemic activity of representative compounds was studied.

Non-steroidal antiinflammatory agents, II: Synthesis of novel pyrazole and pyrazoline derivatives of 4(3H)-quinazolinone

Antiinflammatory and/or analgesic activities have been ascribed to compounds containing the 4(3H)-quinazolinone or pyrazole moiety. Continuation to the previous work in the field of the synthesis of non-steroidal antiinflammatory 4(3H)-quinazolinones, the present investigation deals with the synthesis of new compounds having the pyrazole or pyrazoline and 4(3H)-quinazolinone moieties in one molecule, hoping that such combination might improve their antiinflammatory activity. alpha,beta-unsaturated ketones when treated with hydrazine hydrate achieve cyclization to the corresponding pyrazoline derivatives, whereas, when arylhydrazines are used, pyrazole derivatives are formed.

Synthesis of 3-aryl-2-substituted-4(3H)-quinazolines as potential antimicrobial agents

Three new series of 4(3H)-quinazolinone derivatives were synthesized, namely: [3-Aryl-4(3H)-quinazolinon-2-yl]-methylenehydrazino-(N- substituted)-thiocarbamides, 3-Aryl-2-(3-substituted-4-phenyl-2,3-dihydrothiazol-2-ylidenehy drazonomethyl)-4 (3H)-quinazolinones and 3-Aryl-2-(3-substituted-4-oxothiazolidin-2-ylidenehydrazonometh yl)-4(3H)-quinazolinones. The antimicrobial activities of the synthesized compounds were also studied.

Synthesis of novel 2-substituted quinoline derivatives: antimicrobial, inotropic, and chronotropic activities

Three novel series of quinoline derivatives have been prepared by cyclization of the intermediate 3-(1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)-2-substituted thiocarbamoyl-hydrazinoquinolines with different alpha-halocarbonyl compounds. These series are: 3-(1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)-2-(3-substituted-4-phenylthiazolin-2-y lidene) hydrazinoquinolines; 3-(1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)-2-(3-substituted-5-ethoxycarbonyl- 4-methylthiazoline-2-ylidene)hydrazinoquinolines and 3-(1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)-2- (3-substituted-4-thiazolidinon-2-yl)hydrazinoquinolines. The active methylene group of the latter series was used for the preparation of their arylidene derivatives. The antimicrobial as well as inotropic and chronotropic activities of the prepared compounds were studied.

Bilharzial arthropathy of the temporomandibular joint

Bilharzial was experimentally induced in Swiss albino mice in order to study the histopathological changes in the TMJ in case of Bilharzial infection. The bony components of the joint showed massive chronic inflammatory cell infiltration. The articular disk (meniscus) showed thickening and hyperplastic changes with narrowing of the joint space. The articulating surfaces showed erosions and irregularity. It was concluded that Bilharziasis can cause arthropathy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Synthesis of some 1,2,4-triazolo [3,4-b] [1,3,4]thiadiazoles as potential anthelmintics

Two novel series of triazolothiadiazole derivatives were synthesized, namely: 6-substituted-3-(4-substituted phenoxymethyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4- b] [1,3,4]thiadiazoles and 6-mercapto-3-(4-substituted phenoxy-methyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4- b] [1,3,4]thiadiazoles. The anthelmintic activity of representative compounds was studied.

Segmental ("floating") lumbar spine fusions

A traditional teaching in orthopaedic surgery has been that, in cases of fusion for L4-5 discopathy or instability, one must include the lumbosacral joint. There is nothing in the literature to support this time-honored dictum. The senior author, among others, has rejected this concept; and, the authors are, therefore, in a position to present a 32-year experience with segmental or "floating" fusion. Two hundred six floating fusions were performed, of which 184 were available for follow-up. Of these, 83.7% achieved "Excellent" or "Good" results; 15.2% were rated "Fair"; and 2% were rated "Poor." Only five patients (2.7%) had subsequent disc herniation at the lumbosacral level necessitating discectomy and extension of fusion to incorporate the sacrum.

Synthesis of some thiazoline and thiazolidinone derivatives of 1,4-benzoquinone as potential antimicrobial agents

Three novel series of benzoquinone derivatives were synthesized, namely: N-(3-aryl-4-phenylthiazolin-2-ylidene)-N-(1,4-benzoquinone carbonyl) hydrazines; N-(3-aryl-5-carbethoxy-4-methylthiazolin-2-ylidene)-N-(1,4- benzoquinone carbonyl)hydrazine and N-(3-arylthiazolin-4-one-2-ylidene)-N-(1,4- benzoquinone carbonyl) hydrazines. These series were prepared by oxidation of the new hydroquinone precursors. The antimicrobial activity of representative compounds of benzoquinone, as well as of hydroquinone derivatives was studied.

Synthesis of thiadiazol derivatives of 4(3H)-quinazolinone as potential antimicrobial agents

Three series of quinazolinone derivatives were synthesised namely: 3-[4-(2-substituted amino-1,3,4-thiadiazol-5-yl)phenyl]-2-methyl-4-(3H)- quinazolinones; 3-[4-(2-substituted amino-1,3,4-thiadiazol-5-yl)anilino]-2-methyl-4-(3H)- quinazolinones and 3-[(2-substituted amino-1,3,4-thiadiazol-5-yl)methyl]-2-methyl-4(3H)-quinazolinones. The antimicrobial activity of representative compounds of these series as well as of the starting quinazolinone acids was studied.

Talar compression syndrome

Ballet dancers frequently stand on the tips of their toes in the en pointe and demi-pointe positions, resulting in compression of the posterior structures of the ankle during repeated plantar flexion of the foot, producing the talar compression syndrome. This mechanism may result in posterior block or impingement of an os trigonum or Stieda's process. When the dancer attempts to force the foot into plantar flexion, the os trigonum or the Stieda's process may be impinged between the calcaneus and the posterior edge of the tibia. Pain and tenderness are localized at the posterolateral aspect of the ankle behind the peroneal tendons. In nondancing members of the population, these conditions are usually asymptomatic. It is the requirement of the classical dance for a well-pointed foot that produces symptoms. We are reporting up to 7 years follow-up of six professional ballet dancers in whom we removed the os trigonum for symptomatic talar compression syndrome, caused by the trauma of the en pointe position of toe dancing. Two patients had bilateral operations. All six patients returned to professional dancing within a few months and remained asymptomatic. The anatomy of this condition is reviewed, as well as the diagnosis and treatment.

Talar compression syndrome

Ballet dancers frequently stand on the tips of their toes in the en pointe and demi pointe positions, resulting in compression of the posterior structures of the ankle during repeated plantar flexion of the foot, producing the talar compression syndrome. This mechanism may result in posterior block or impingement of an os trigonum or Stieda's process. When the dancer attempts to force the foot into plantar flexion, the os trigonum or the Stieda's process may be impinged between the calcaneus and the posterior edge of the tibia. Pain and tenderness are localized at the posterolateral aspect of the ankle behind the peroneal tendons. In nondancing members of the population, these conditions are usually asymptomatic. It is the requirement of the classical dance for a well-pointed foot that produces symptoms. We are reporting up to 7 years' followup of six professional ballet dancers in whom we removed the os trigonum for symptomatic talar compression syndrome, caused by the trauma of the en pointe position of toe dancing. Two patients had bilateral operations. All six patients returned to professional dancing within a few months and remained asymptomatic. The anatomy of this condition is reviewed, as well as the diagnosis and treatment.

Atmospheric Trace Gases: Trends and Distributions Over the Last Decade

Concentrations of the halocrbons CCl(3)F (F-11), CCl(2)F(2) (F-12), CCl(4), and CH(3)CCl(3), methane (CH(4)), and nitrous oxide (N(2)O) over the decade between 1975 and 1985 are reported, based on measurements taken every January at the South Pole and in the Pacific Northwest. The concentrations of F-11, F-12, and CH(3)CCl(3) in both hemispheres are now more than twice their concentrations 10 years ago. However, the annual rates of increase of F-11, F-12, and CH(3)CC1(3) are now considerably slower than earlier in the decade, reflecting in part the effects of a ban on their nonessential uses. Continued increases in these trace gas concentrations may warm the earth and deplete the stratospheric ozone layer, which may cause widespread climatic changes and affect global habitability.

Interannual Variability of Atmospheric Methane: Possible Effects of the El Niño—Southern Oscillation

Nearly continuous measurements at Cape Meares, Oregon, revealed that methane was increasing in the earth's atmosphere and that its concentration varied cyclically with the seasons. After 6 years of measurements, results show that the rate of increase in methane undergoes interannual variations; the most prominent of these coincided with the last major El Niño-Southern Oscillation, when methane concentrations fell far below expected levels. One of the consequences of the interannual variability is that the long-term rate of increase at Cape Meares is now about 16 parts per billion by volume per year, or about 1 percent annually, which is significantly less than that indicated by the earliest calculations.

Bipolar implant shoulder arthroplasty

A bipolar implant was designed by the author in 1975 for reconstruction of the severely arthritic shoulder. It has the advantage of not requiring glenoidal component fixation, but still provides an artificial joint interface. The ball of the humeral intramedullary stemmed component articulates with a polyethylene bearing within the glenoid cup component. This bipolar prosthesis was implanted in 15 shoulders of patients who presented severe arthritic shoulder disabilities. The follow up period averaged 41 months. Nine patients had rheumatoid arthritis, and five had osteoarthritis; all presented with severe pain and joint crepitation with loss of motion. A "shoulder score" system, based on the rating of pain, activities of daily living and range of motion, was devised to categorize the results obtained. Patients obtained greatly improved range of motion with good to excellent pain relief and very good functional restoration. Radiographically, the implant was well tolerated and there was no stem loosening. This procedure appears to be safe and efficacious for use in the severely arthritic shoulder.

Unicompartmental and bicompartmental arthroplasty of the knee with a finned metal tibial-plateau implant

We followed a series of ten patients (ten knees) who had a unicompartmental and twenty patients (twenty-two knees) who had a bicompartmental arthroplasty of the knee, in which a finned metal tibial-plateau implant had been used, for two to fourteen years (average, five years) postoperatively. According to the modified criteria of MacIntosh and Hunter, thirty knees (94 per cent) had a good result and two (6 per cent), a fair result. There were two complications: one intraoperative and one postoperative fracture of the tibial plateau. One patient with rheumatoid arthritis required a revision to a total knee arthroplasty at six months because of rapid progression of disease in the contralateral, untreated compartment. Our results suggest that with the proper indications this arthroplasty has a place in reconstructive surgery of the arthritic knee joint.

The conical cartilage of the cat's middle ear

The object of this study was to investigate the anatomy, histology, and possible function of a conical structure found in the middle ear of the cat. This conical structure lies across the dorso-caudal compartment of the middle ear. It is directly related to the course of the chorda tympani nerve in the middle ear. Its base is attached by fibrous tissue to the dorso-caudal segment of the tympanic bone adjacent to the tympanic membrane. Its apex rests on the promontory just rostral to the round window niche. Histologically, it is cartilaginous tissue enveloped by a mucous membrane with no trace of bone. Portions of some conical cartilage specimens display extensive calcification. A previous hypothesis suggests that this structure conducts high frequency sounds directly from the tympanic membrane to the round window membrane. This seems unlikely because its length is shorter than the distance between the tympanic membrane and round window membrane. The conical cartilage may be a vestigial remnant of the second arch bar (Reichert's cartilage).

Heritability of juvenile characters of white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench.) Voss.) in central Newfoundland, Canada

The paper presents results of a growth chamber progeny test of selected phenotypically superior trees from two white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench.) Voss.) populations in central Newfoundland, Canada. On the basis of heritability of 11 juvenile characters the superior trees have been demonstrated to be suitable as a base population for continued advanced generation breeding. Family selection would produce good genetic gains in the first generation but these can be enhanced considerably by selection of best individuals within the best families for clonal propagation in the second generation or propagation by seed in the second and subsequent generations.

Synthesis of a new anti-inflammatory steroidal acid ester: methyl 11 beta-hydroxy-3,20-dioxo-1,4-pregnadien-21-oate

The synthesis and anti-inflammatory activity of a new steroidal acid ester, methyl 11 beta-hydroxy-3,20-1,4-pregnadien-21-oate (5), are described. This compound has been prepared via three different synthetic routes. The first involves oxidation of the benzoate 3 to the aldehyde 4 followed by a Mattox-type rearrangement of the side chain in conjunction with elimination of the benzoyloxy group. The second method, prolonged reaction of 1-dehydrocorticosterone (8) with methanolic cupric acetate, affords methyl ester 5 in low yield. The third approach consists of selective oxidation at C-20 of the methyl 11 beta, 20 alpha and 20 beta-dihydroxy-3-oxo-1,4-pregnadien-21-oates (7a and 7b) with sulfur trioxide-pyridine complex. The local anti-inflammatory activities of the new ester 5 and intermediates 3, 4, 7a and 7b were determined by the cotton-pellet granuloma assay in rats. The anti-inflammatory activity of the title compound is equal to that of the parent steroid, prednisolone. However, unlike the latter compound, the ester does not cause reduction of adrenal and thymus weights or a lowering of plasma corticosterone levels.