Absorption studies after massive small bowel resection and antiperistaltic colon interposition in rhesus monkeys

An experimental model of massive (80%) small bowel resection and antiperistaltic colon interposition in between the remnant jejunum and ileum was created in rhesus monkeys. The gastrointestinal functions were assessed preoperatively and at different periods after the operation. Progressive increase in the transit time and enhanced absorption ofd-xylose and vitamin B ₁₂ was observed in these animals. The transit time marginally increased till three months postoperatively, and a significant increase was observed later (4–12 months) in the colon autografted monkeys. After three months, thed-xylose absorption in the colon interpositioned animals was nearly equal to that of normal monkeys. There was no significant difference in the vitamin B ₁₂ absorption in the normal and operated animals up to three months, but a significant rise was observed in the latter group after this period. The fecal fat excretion was 33–44% initially, and it gradually decreased to near normal values after nine months. The antiperistaltic colon interposition was effective in improving the early postoperative survival in animals after massive small bowel resection and enhanced the bowel absorption considerably.This investigation was supported by grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi.     

Immunological studies in children with hearing impairment

An immunological study was carried out on 58 children below 14 years of age with sensorineural hearing loss of unknown aetiology. The observed elevated levels of IgE in 25.86% (n = 15) children and antinuclear antibodies in 10.34% (n = 6) children indicate that auto-immune activity has a role in the causation of hearing impairment.     

Rapid diffusion of fluorescent tracers into Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms visualized by time lapse microscopy

The transient diffusion of fluorescent tracers into biofilm cell clusters of Staphylococcus epidermidis was visualized by time lapse confocal scanning laser microscopy. Rhodamine B diffused into the center of cell clusters that were 200 to 600 microm in diameter within a few minutes. The apparent effective diffusion coefficient calculated from these data averaged 3.7 x 10(-7) cm(2) s(-1) or 11% of the value in pure water. Fluorescein diffused into biofilm more rapidly, with a diffusion coefficient that averaged 1.6 x 10(-6) cm(2) s(-1), or 32% of the value in water. This study provides direct, visual confirmation that solutes the size of many antibiotics and biocides can diffuse rapidly into biofilms.     

Central adrenoceptors concerned in the release of adrenocorticotrophic hormone

The effect of injecting the alpha-adrenoceptor stimulating drugs adrenaline, noradrenaline and phenylephrine and the beta-adrenoceptor stimulating drug, isoprenaline into the lateral ventricles (i.c.v.) of the brains of dogs on the plasma cortisol concentration was investigated. Adrenaline, noradrenaline and phenylephrine produced a significant rise in the plasma cortisol concentration. Isoprenaline had no effect on the plasma cortisol concentration. The effect of noradrenaline and phenylephrine on the plasma cortisol concentration was completely blocked by yohimbine (i.c.v.). This indicates that the stimulation of central alpha-adrenoceptors can cause the release of adrenocorticotrophic hormone.     

Pesticide-induced physiological alterations in certain tissues of a fish, Mystus vittatus

Effect of sublethal concentrations (1/5, 1/10 and 1/15 fractions of 96-h TL50) of thiotox, dichlorvos and carbofuran on acid, alkaline and glucose-6-phosphatase of liver, kidney and gills of Mystus vittatus have been studied. Maximum (62.79%) inhibition of alkaline phosphatase in gills after thiotox (0.00013 mg/l) treatment have been observed. At 0.000045mg/l concentrations of thiotox, a marginal (7.6%) and significant (P less than 0.01) stimulation was observed in hepatic alkaline phosphatase activity.     

Urological injuries during hysterectomies: a 6-year review

AIM: Urological injuries that occur during hysterectomy are a rare but important cause of morbidity. An understanding of the risk factors can help us to reduce their incidence and studying their management and outcome could help us to evolve optimal management strategies. The aim of the present study was to examine the incidence of urological injuries that occur during hysterectomy and to determine the risk factors, management and outcome of such injuries. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of cases of urological injuries sustained during hysterectomies carried out from June 1996 until May 2002, at our institution. The chi-squared test was applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The overall incidence of urological injuries was 0.40% (0.28% bladder and 0.12% ureteral). No ureteral injuries occurred during vaginal surgery. The incidence of bladder injury was significantly higher in non-descent vaginal hysterectomies compared with abdominal hysterectomies or vaginal hysterectomies for genital prolapse (P<0.05). Hysterectomy for ovarian malignancies had a significantly higher risk for bladder injuries compared with other indications. Bladder injuries detected during vaginal hysterectomies could be managed through the vaginal route. All the repairs healed successfully. CONCLUSIONS: Non-descent vaginal hysterectomy and hysterectomy for ovarian malignancies have a higher risk of bladder injury. Urological injuries during hysterectomy are uncommon. Early detection and appropriate management ensure successful healing and minimal long-term sequelae.