Evaluation of Solid, Cystic, and Mixed Sellar Masses and their Association with Serum Prolactin Concentrations

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of sellar masses, focusing on their radiological features using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their correlation with serum prolactin levels. Through a cross-sectional study of 30 patients, it explores the relationship between the solid, cystic, and mixed nature of sellar masses and prolactin levels, revealing a moderate positive correlation between solid masses and elevated prolactin levels, while cystic and mixed masses showed weak correlations. The study identifies a variety of diagnoses, including macroadenomas, microadenomas, and Rathke\u27s cleft cysts, underscoring the clinical complexity of these masses. The findings highlight the critical role of MRI in diagnosis and the nuanced relationship between tumor composition and hormonal changes, emphasizing the need for personalized diagnostic and treatment approaches in the management of sellar masses. Further research is needed to refine diagnostic criteria and t reatment strategies to improve patient outcomes

Potential effect of Escherichia coli Shiga toxin metabolites in the induction of cognitive dysfunction and stress memory formation in naïve goldfish Carassius auratus

The oral-gut-brain (OGB) axis is a three-way communication process that forms cognitive functions, especially learning and memory (LM) formation. Recent studies showed that the OGB axis is pivotal in efficiently forming and regulating the brain homeostasis mechanism. In this OGB axis, oral and gut commensals play a major role in the bidirectional communication with the brain through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The dysbiosis of oral and gut commensals results in cognitive dysfunctions like cognitive decline. The present study aimed to study the effect of Escherichia coli induced oral-gut dysbiosis on cognitive memory (CM) formation with the help of a cue-based learning paradigm (CBLP). Other than CM formation, stress memory (SM) formation was also studied with the help of behavioural paradigms like predator exposure test (PET), light and dark box test (LDBT), and open field test (OFT) in naïve goldfish Carassius auratus. The results of the study proved that the OGB axis is possibly involved in the formation of CM by inhibiting stress formation in a habituated, serene environment. Behavioural responses of E. coli-infused groups showed that higher colonization/accumulation of E. coli results in the formation of cognitive decline through the release of shiga toxin (ST) metabolites. It also showed that the release of ST metabolites may disrupt gut dysbiosis through the development of gastroenteritis. Developed gastroenteritis further results in cognitive memory - decline (70-75 %) due to the long-term existence of E. coli-induced oral/gut dysbiosis. Thus, the present study stated the possible effect of E. coli shiga toxin metabolites on the development of cognitive dysfunction in a unique manner.

Prevalence of copepod parasite (Lernaeenicus polynemi) infestation on Eleutheronema tetradactylum from Pazhayar coastal waters, southeast coast of India

Objective: To study the prevalence and mean intensity of copepod parasite Lernaeenicus polynemi infestation on Eleutheronema tetradactylum from Pazayar, Tamil Nadu, of India. southeast coast Methods: The fish was collected from Pazhayar landing centre from January to December 2012 aonf dp atrhaesiirt ebsi owmeeretr rice cmoredaesdu.rements were examined. Toal number of infected fish and total number. Results: Higher prevalence and mean intensity of infestation of 35.23% and 3.1 were respectively rbeopdoyr toefd t hdeu rhinosgt manodn stoaorgne steedas tohne odfi f2f0e1r2e.n Tt hinet epranraals iotircg ainnsfe ssutacthio anss lwiveerre asncda tttheree ddo orvsaelr athoret ae.n Ttihree highest intensity was reported to be 66 parasites in a single host. Conclusions: Due to the heavy parasitic attack the fish will suffer and its economical value or the marketability may reduce

Imaging insights in acute iron toxicity

Iron is more dangerous than most prescription medications, even though it is freely available, and is the leading cause of poisoning deaths in young infants. Imaging is important in early diagnosis and management of complications of iron poisoning, acute as well as long term. We report a case of 24-year-old female presenting with deliberate overdose of 30-40 iron (ferrous sulphate) tablets. We have discussed the role of X-ray abdomen and computer tomography in diagnosing iron poisoning. Despite treatment with deferoxamine chelation and hemodialysis, the patient's condition worsened over 72 hours, further progressing to multi-organ failure with refractory shock, culminating in cardiac failure. Despite aggressive supportive care, she succumbed to her illness. Autopsy findings revealed gastrointestinal mucosal erosion. A radiologist's role in diagnosing acute iron poisoning and assessing probable complication is significant

High Bifurcation of the Common Carotid Artery with Pentafurcation of the External Carotid Artery: Case Series with Review of Literature

The bifurcation of the Common Carotid Artery (CCA) is a pivotal anatomical landmark in head and neck surgeries, particularly affecting procedures such as carotid endarterectomy. Typically occurring around the C3-C4 intervertebral disc, variations in its location can complicate surgical access and pose risks of nerve injury. In this case report, three rare bilateral high bifurcations of the CCA at the C2 and C2/3 vertebrae levels are documented. Additionally, an unusual pentafurcation of the External Carotid Artery (ECA) and bilateral superior thyroid artery are observed, arising directly from the CCA. The high bifurcation presents challenges due to its proximity to nerves such as the hypoglossal nerve, potentially leading to complications such as dysphagia or speech impairment. Furthermore, it complicates procedures like carotid endarterectomy, necessitating additional techniques for adequate exposure and increasing risks of Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) thrombosis. Detailed preoperative imaging before surgery is important for effective planning and minimizing the surgical risk. Anatomical variation, such as the vascular structure, can significantly affect surgical and interventional outcomes. Identifying these differences through meticulous evaluation enables surgeons to anticipate potential challenges, reduce complications, and enhance patient outcomes

Exploring the Binding Stability and Sub Domains of Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) In the Presence of Phenolic Derivatives of Benzoic Acids and Cinnamic Acids Through Molecular Docking Approach

Variation in binding energies and stability of complex between Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) with hydroxyl derivatives of benzoic acid (DBA) and cinnamic acid (DCA) derived from Psidium guajava L. were studied by employing molecular docking (Mol.Doc) techniques. The binding energies of DCA-BSA show more favorable interactions than that of DBA-BSA complex. Among the DCAs, Caffeic acid (CA) and Coumaric acid (CoA) which possess phenolic –OH  has larger stability compared to Sinapic acid (SA) and Ferrulic acid (FA) wherein the -OH is replaced by -OCH3 in these acids. On the contrary, in the case of DBAs, the acid containing -OCH3 (Vanillic acid (VA)) has a better binding efficiency with BSA compared to acids containing -OH although all the DBAs possess lesser energetics compared to DCAs. The variation in their binding energies are attributed to the binding site, sub domains and the nature of the bimolecular interactions between the BSA and guest (DBA and DCA) molecules. FA and SA prefer to dock in the Sudlow binding site II whereas for CA and CoA, the energetically stable site is warfarin site (Site I). Interestingly, for Syringic acid (SyA) and Pyrogallic acid (PyA) the energetically most favored binding sub domain is IB which is the non-Sudlow binding site (III). However, Gentistic acid (GeA) and Procatechiuc acid (PrA) prefers both drug binding sites. Docking studies provides an excellent approach in determining the various forces governing the stability of ligand-protein complexes

Biocompatibility studies on lanthanum oxide nanoparticles

Lanthanum oxide nanoparticles (LONP), a rare earth metal oxide, have unique properties that make them a suitable candidate for several biomedical applications. We investigated certain key in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility endpoints on LONP. LONP were cytotoxic in in vitro assays and predominantly exerted their action via release of reactive oxygen species. These nanoparticles were neither irritants nor sensitizers in a rabbit model. LONP extracts did not exert any acute systemic toxicity effects in mice. On the other hand LONP exerted toxicity to the liver following oral administration, suggesting that these particles are absorbed from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and deposited in the hepatobiliary system. LONP did not induce any mutation in the Ames test both in the presence or absence of S-9. These observations provide a base line biocompatibility and toxicity data on LONP. The current findings will also be useful in defining standards for nanoparticle containing devices. © The Royal Society of Chemistry

Regional and experiential differences in surgeon preference for the treatment of cervical facet injuries: a case study survey with the AO Spine Cervical Classification Validation Group

Purpose: The management of cervical facet dislocation injuries remains controversial. The main purpose of this investigation was to identify whether a surgeon’s geographic location or years in practice influences their preferred management of traumatic cervical facet dislocation injuries. Methods: A survey was sent to 272 AO Spine members across all geographic regions and with a variety of practice experience. The survey included clinical case scenarios of cervical facet dislocation injuries and asked responders to select preferences among various diagnostic and management options. Results: A total of 189 complete responses were received. Over 50% of responding surgeons in each region elected to initiate management of cervical facet dislocation injuries with an MRI, with 6 case exceptions. Overall, there was considerable agreement between American and European responders regarding management of these injuries, with only 3 cases exhibiting a significant difference. Additionally, results also exhibited considerable management agreement between those with ≤ 10 and > 10 years of practice experience, with only 2 case exceptions noted. Conclusion: More than half of responders, regardless of geographical location or practice experience, identified MRI as a screening imaging modality when managing cervical facet dislocation injuries, regardless of the status of the spinal cord and prior to any additional intervention. Additionally, a majority of surgeons would elect an anterior approach for the surgical management of these injuries. The study found overall agreement in management preferences of cervical facet dislocation injuries around the globe