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We present the full derivation of a one dimensional "Saint-Venant" like equations for barotropic compressible pipe flows including friction. The one dimensional hyperbolic system is called γ -pressurized model where γ is the adiabatic constant. It is obtained through the three dimensional barotropic Navier-Stokes equations under "thin layer" assumptions as a first order approximation. Prescribing suitable boundary conditions, one can introduce a general friction law and then explicitly show its geometrical (w.r.t. the hydraulic radius) and hydrodynamical (w.r.t. the Oser number) dependencies in the reduced model. In particular, for linear pressure law (γ = 1), we justify the one dimensional pressurized model (called P-model) introduced by the author in the context of unsteady mixed flows in closed water pipes. For non linear pressure law (γ ≠ 1), the γ -pressurized model describes the evolution of a compressible (almost) gravityless flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present a fast and parallel finite volume scheme on unstructured meshes applied to complex fluid flow. The mathematical model is based on a three-dimensional compressible low Mach two-phase flows model, combined with a linearised ‘artificial pressure’ law. This hyperbolic system of conservation laws allows an explicit scheme, improved by a block-based adaptive mesh refinement scheme. Following a previous one-dimensional work, the useful numerical density of entropy production is used as mesh refinement criterion. Moreover, the computational time is preserved using a local time-stepping method. Finally, we show through several test cases the efficiency of the present scheme on two- and three-dimensional dam-break problems over an obstacle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aim to give the numerical method for solving the fractional Volterra integral equations of first and second kinds. We here use the techniques based upon rational Chebyshev functions and Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals. Some illustrative experiments with a view of estimating error and graphics are given in order to show the validity and applicability of the technique. Our experiments show that the new technique has high accuracy and is very efficient when compare to the other approaches existing in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an adaptive numerical scheme for hyperbolic conservation laws based on the numerical density of entropy production (the amount of violation of the theoretical entropy inequality). Thus it is used as an a posteriori error which provides information on the need to refine the mesh in the regions where discontinuities occur and to coarsen the mesh in the regions where the solutions remain smooth. Nevertheless, due to the CFL stability condition the time step is restricted and leads to time consuming simulations. Therefore, we propose a local time stepping algorithm. This approach is validated in the case of classical ID numerical tests. Then, we present a 3D application. Indeed, according to an eulerian bi-fluid formulation at low Mach, an hyperbolic system of conservation laws allows an easily parallelization and mesh refinement by "blocks". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, we prepared polymer–clay monofilaments using a melt spinning technique in which organoclays were incorporated into polyamide 6 (PA6) and polypropylene (PP) homopolymer resins. The structural and thermal characterizations of the monofilaments were performed by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric (TG) analyses. The detailed mechanical and dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) of the nanocomposite filaments were conducted to evaluate their mechanical performances in relation to the type and ratio of organoclays incorporated into the structure. Thermal analysis, tensile test and dynamic mechanic analysis results show that the properties of the nanocomposite fibers were considerably more desirable compared with those of ordinary PP and PA6 fibers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a ketamine:propofol combination ('ketofol') for electroconvulsive therapy on seizure activity, haemodynamic response and recovery parameters, and to compare with these with the effects of propofol alone. Twenty-four patients underwent a total of 144 electroconvulsive therapy sessions, allocated in this prospective, double-blind, crossover study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 1 mg/kg ketofol (0.5 mg/kg propofol plus 0.5 mg/kg ketamine) or 1 mg/kg propofol 1% for anaesthesia induction. Seizure duration and quality, haemodynamic data, recovery parameters and side-effects were recorded and analysed between groups. Both motor and electroencephalography seizure durations in the ketofol group (29 ± 17 and 41 ± 17 seconds, respectively) were similar to that in the propofol group (28 ± 13 and 38 ± 16 seconds, respectively). Postictal suppression index was higher in the ketofol group (89.63 ± 7.88) than in the propofol group (79.74 ± 14.6) (P <0.05). In the ketofol group, heart rate after the seizure ended and mean arterial pressures, recorded at 0 and 5 minutes after the seizure ended, were higher than in the propofol group. Time to obeying commands was longer in the ketofol group (P <0.05). There were no untoward psychological reactions following ketofol. Although no superiority to propofol in terms of seizure duration, haemodynamic or recovery parameters was found, the ketofol mixture selected in our study provided better seizure quality than propofol. We conclude that ketofol can be an alternative strategy to enhance the seizure quality and clinical efficiency of electroconvulsive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An anatomical study was performed to assess the course of the dorsal branches of superficial radial nerve and to investigate potential clinical applications in hand surgery. Eight upper extremities were dissected, using an operating microscope. All branching points of the superficial radial nerve were noted and the distances from the radial styloid process were recorded. Their proximity to neighboring vascular structures was noted. The superficial branches of the radial nerve can vascularize axial neurofasciocutaneous flaps via their paraneural arterial network. In addition, various reverse neurofasciocutaneous flaps may be harvested, based on dorsal branches of the superficial radial nerve. The nerve can be anastomosed with a suitable nerve in the recipient area. The dorsal branches of the superficial radial nerve can easily be added to the reverse first dorsal metacarpal artery flap and other reverse dorsal metacarpal artery flaps, thus making it possible to form a sensate flap. These branches may be anastomosed with nerves in the recipient site, such as dorsal branches of digital nerve stump, without significant donor site morbidity. A free sensate first dorsal artery flap can be prepared with a combination of dorsal branches of the superficial radial nerve and used with the same indications as a free digital artery flap. It has some advantages over the free digital artery flap, because the main neurovascular structures of the finger are kept intact. Finally, a dorsal nerve branch which accompanies the first dorsal metacarpal artery may be harvested with this artery and a subcutaneous dorsal vein as vascularized nerve graft. It can be used to repair a digital nerve defect in dense scar tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of our study is to compare the effect of ketamine–propofol mixture (ketofol) and propofol on the laryngeal tube-Suction II (LTS II) insertion conditions and hemodynamics. Methods: Eighty American Society of Anesthesiologists class 1 and 2 patients were divided into 2 random groups to receive either 1 µg/kg remifentanil and propofol 2 mg/kg in Group P (n = 40), or 1 µg/kg remifentanil and ketofol (using a 1:1 single syringe mixture of 5 mg/mL ketamine and 5 mg/mL propofol) in Group K (n = 40) before induction of anesthesia. After induction, LTS II was inserted. Heart rate and noninvasive blood pressure were recorded before induction of anesthesia (t0); immediately following induction (t1); immediately after LTS II insertion (t2); and 3 minutes (t3), 5 minutes (t4), and 10 (t5) minutes after LTS II insertion. Conditions of insertion of LTS II were assessed and scored 1 to 3 using 6 variables as follows: mouth opening, swallowing, coughing, head and body movements, laryngospasm, and ease of LTS II insertion by the same experienced anesthesiologist who did not know the agents. LTS II insertion summed score was prepared depending upon these variables. Results: In regard to LTS II insertion summed score, Group K was more favorable than Group P (P < 0.05). Apnea duration was longer in Group P (385.0 seconds [range = 195.0–840.0 seconds]) compared with Group K (325.50 seconds [range = 60.0–840.0 seconds]) but this was not statically significant. The heart rate values were significantly lower at all measurement intervals in both groups compared with the baseline values (P < 0.05). There was no difference in heart rate between Group P and Group K. The mean arterial pressure values were significantly lower at all measurement intervals in Group P compared with baseline values (P < 0.05). In Group K, the mean arterial pressure values were significantly lower at all measurement intervals compared with the baseline values, except t2 (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference between Group P and Group K in terms of mean arterial pressure at t3 (P < 0.05). Conclusions: We found that ketofol provided better insertion summed score for LTS II than propofol, with minimal hemodynamic changes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We compared the effectiveness of three anaesthetic regimens (propofol alone, propofol with remifentanil and sevoflurane alone), with respect to seizure duration and seizure quality in patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy. Thirty-nine patients underwent a total of 234 electroconvulsive therapy treatments in this prospective, observer blinded, crossover study. Each patient received either propofol 1 mg/kg alone (Group P), propofol 0.5 mg/kg and remifentanil 1 µg/kg (Group R), or sevoflurane alone 6% (Group S) for their initial electroconvulsive therapy session. The patients subsequently received an alternative regimen in their next session, such as from propofol 1 mg/kg alone to propofol 0.5 mg/kg and remifentanil 1 µg/kg, from propofol 0.5 mg/kg and remifentanil 1 µg/kg to sevoflurane alone 6%, or from sevoflurane alone 6% to a continuing alternation between drugs at each session, until their sixth session. Muscle paralysis was achieved with 1 mg/kg succinylcholine. Seizure duration, postictal suppression index, early and midictal amplitude were recorded. The mean motor and electroencephalogram seizure durations were significantly longer in Groups P and R compared to Group S (P <0.001). The postictal suppression index and early and midictal amplitude values were not significantly different among the groups. These findings indicate that the three anaesthetic regimens had similar effects on seizure quality parameters, although sevoflurane was associated with shorter seizure durations than propofol or propofol-remifentanil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article compares the effectiveness of the anesthetic regimens propofol, propofol with remifentanil, and sevoflurane along, with regard to seizure duration and quality in patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy. It was found that the mean motor and electroencephalogram seizure durations were longer in patients who received propofol alone and those who received propofol with remifentanil. Indications that the three regimens had similar effects on seizure quality parameters are cited.

The article discusses a study of the administration of Ketofol, a mixture of ketamine and propofol, in patients referred to electroconvulsive therapy. The researchers analyzed the seizure activity, hemodynamic response and recovery parameters in the 25 patients included in the study. They found similar motor and electroencephalography seizure durations in both the ketofol and propofol groups.

Aim: ProSeal LMA (LMA) was developed on the basis of the classic LMA is a supraglottic airway device. In this study, anesthesia records of 428 pediatric patients who PLMA were inserted after induction of general anesthesia in pediatric surgery between May 2009 and June 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. Material-Methods: Demographic characteristics, ASA score, type of surgery and anesthesia time, the premeditation, induction agents, positions of patients, PLMA placement technique, the number of attempts, the practitioners' experience of anesthesia and complications encountered were recorded retrospectively. Results: Anesthesia was induced intravenously or inhalationally in 355 and 73 patients, respectively. PLMA was placed at the first trial to 411 patients and at the second trial to 14 patients. 342 patients who PLMA were inserted underwent to the operation in the supine position, 86 patients had the operation in lithotomy position. PLMA was placed with digital technique to 355 patients, introducer was used in 73 patients. After PLMA was placed, in 4 patients laryngospasm, in 3 patients bronchospasm, in one patient gastric distension, in two patients hiccup developed. After placement of PLMA two patients vomited. After removal of PLMA laryngospasm developed in three patients, blood transmission at PLMA has been found in 2 patients. Conclusion: In children, PLMA with allowing high leak pressures than the classic LMA and separating glottis to esophagus, high placement success and low complication rate is an effective airway device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Pregabalin has a similar pharmacologic profile to that of its developmental predecessor gabapentin but has shown greater analgesic activity in rodent models of neuropathic pain. Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the effects of 2 different doses of pregabalin and placebo on postoperative pain and morphine consumption. Methods: Ninety patients who underwent abdominal hysterectomy were included in the study and randomly divided into 3 groups in a doubled-blinded manner. They were given 150 mg of pregabalin (group P300, n = 30), 300 mg of pregabalin (group P600, n = 30), or placebo capsules (group C, n = 30) 4 hours before the induction of anesthesia; they received a second dose of the drug 12 hours postoperatively. Morphine consumption, nausea, and vomiting, visual analogue scale-pain intensity (VAS-PI), sedation scores, and dissatisfaction scores were recorded in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) and at 2, 4, 6, and 24 hours after operation. Results: Morphine consumption at 24 hours was 40.80 (3.42) mg, 33.79 (5.77) mg, and 46.97 (6.67) mg in groups P300, P600, and C, respectively (P < 0.001). VAS-PI scores at movement and at rest in the PACU and at 2, 4, and 6 hours decreased in group P600 (P < 0.01). In the PACU and at 2, 4, and 6 hours, the sedation scores were increased in group P600 compared with the scores in group C (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.01, P = 0.006, respectively). Patient satisfaction was higher in group P600 than in group C for all time points (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups for side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness (P = 0.58). Conclusions: Pregabalin at a total dose of 600 mg, administered before operation and at 12 hours postoperatively after abdominal hysterectomy, reduced morphine consumption and pain intensity and increased patient satisfaction. No significant differences in side effects were observed between the study groups. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Moyamoya disease is an entity, which is caused by obstruction or stenosis in the area between the internal carotid artery, and anterior and middle cerebral arteries, identified angiographically, and does not have an exactly known etiology. The most frequent symptoms of onset are hemorrhage in adults and ischemia in children. In the treatment of moyamoya disease revascularization surgery is performed in order to decrease the vascular fragility. A specialized care is required in the perioperative period since surgery is often complicated by cerebral ischemia or cerebral hemorrhage. Aim in the perioperative anesthetic management is to provide the balance between oxygen supply to and use in the brain. In this case report we aimed to discuss the anesthetic management in a 22-year-old male patient with moyamoya disease in whom a multipl burr hole surgery was performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare the block durations and haemodynamic effects associated with intrathecal levobupivacaine or bupivacaine in elderly patients undergoing transurethral prostate surgery. Eighty patients were prospectively randomised to receive plain 1.5 ml levobupivacaine 0.5% (group levobupivacaine) or 1.5 ml plain bupivacaine 0.5% (group bupivacaine) in combination with fentanyl 0.3 ml (15 μg) for spinal anaesthesia. The time to reach T10 and peak sensory block level, and to maximum motor block were significantly shorter in group bupivacaine compared to group levobupivacaine (p < 0.05). Peak sensory block level was also significantly higher in group bupivacaine. In group bupivacaine, mean arterial pressure was significantly lower than group levobupivacaine, starting from 10 min until 30 min after injection (p < 0.05). Hypotension and nausea were less common in group levobupivacaine than group bupivacaine (p < 0.05). Because of the better haemodynamic stability and fewer side-effects associated with levobupivacaine, it may be preferred for spinal anaesthesia in elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This randomised controlled study evaluated the effects of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine on emergence characteristics of children having adenoidectomy and anaesthetised with sevoflurane. Ninety children, two to seven years of age and ASA physical status I, were studied. Children were randomly assigned to one of three groups of 30 children, with the study intervention injection given intravenously after intubation. Children in Group F received fentanyl 2.5 microg x kg(-1), children in Group D received dexmedetomidine 0.5 microG x kg(-1) and children in Group C received saline solution. Anaesthesia was induced with 50% N2O and 8% sevoflurane in O2 by mask and atracurium 0.6 mg x kg(-1) was administered for tracheal intubation. All children received paracetamol 40 mg/kg rectally one hour preoperatively and dexamethasone 0.5 mg x kg(-1) intravenously. The time to extubation was shorter in Group D than Group F. The eye-opening time was longer in Group F (16.1 +/- 5.3 minutes) than in Groups C (12.0 +/- 4.2 minutes) and D (12.7 +/- 3.2 minutes). The proportion of pain-free children in early recovery was significantly higher in Groups D (47%) and F (43%) than Group C (13%) (P < 0.05). The proportion of children with agitation scores > 3 was lower in Groups D 17% (5/30) and F 13% (4/30) than in Group C 47% (14/30) (P < 0.05). Fentanyl 2.5 microg x kg(-1) and dexmedetomidine 0.5 microg x kg(-1) had similar haemodynamic effects and emergence characteristics. Fentanyl has been safely used in children for many years. Further studies of dexmedetomidine safety and its interaction with other anaesthetic agents are required before recommending its routine use during general anaesthesia in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article details a study which examined the effects of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine on the emergence characteristics of children who are having adenoidectomy and were anaesthetised with sevoflurane. The study included 90 children, aged two to seven, who were randomly assigned to one of three groups. It found that fentanyl attenuated the hemodynamic response to the onset of surgery and extubation. It concluded that fentanyl and dexmedetomidine had similar hemodynamic effects and emergence characteristics in children.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether esmolol has an effect on QT interval during induction of anaesthesia using etomidate and fentanyl in patients with known coronary artery disease. Sixty patients were prospectively randomised to either a control group or the esmolol group. Esmolol was administered as a bolus 1 mg.kg−1, followed by a continuous infusion at 250 μg.kg−1min−1. All patients received etomidate 0.3 mg.kg−1 and fentanyl 15 μg.kg−1. The ECG was recorded prior to induction of anaesthesia (T0), 5 min following the start of drug infusions (T1), 1 min following etomidate (T2), 3 min following vecuronium (T3), 30 s (T4), 2 min (T5) and 4 min (T6) after intubation. In the esmolol group, QTc interval was significantly shorter at T1, T2 and T4 compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, QTc interval increased following tracheal intubation during induction of anaesthesia using etomidate and fentanyl. An infusion of Esmolol attenuated the QTc interval prolongation associated with tracheal intubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to compare the effects of ketamine and alfentanil administered prior to induction of anaesthesia with propofol, on the haemodynamic changes and ProSeal laryngeal mask airway® (PLMA) insertion conditions in children. Eighty children, aged between 3–132 months, were randomly allocated to receive either alfentanil 20 μg.kg−1 (alfentanil group) or ketamine 0.5 mg.kg−1 (ketamine group) before induction of anaesthesia. Ninety seconds following the administration of propofol 4 mg.kg−1, a PLMA was inserted. In the ketamine group, heart rate and mean arterial pressure were higher during the study period compared with the alfentanil group (p < 0.05). The time for the return of spontaneous ventilation was prolonged in the alfentanil group (p = 0.004). In conclusion, we found that the administration of ketamine 0.5 mg.kg−1 with propofol 4 mg.kg−1 preserved haemodynamic stability, and reduced the time to the return of spontaneous ventilation, compared with alfentanil 20 μg.kg−1 during PLMA placement. In addition, the conditions for insertion of the PLMA with ketamine were similar to those found with alfentanil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organ that is affected first and most severely in intraabdominal sepsis is the lung. Oxygen radicals and active neutrophils in the lung are important sources for severe pulmonary inflammation leading to acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of leflunomide, an immunomodulatory agent, on oxidant/antioxidant status with nitric oxide (NO) level and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in rats with sepsis-induced ALI. Fifty male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups: control, sham, sepsis, leflunomide (10 mg/kg, intragastrically for two doses with an 8 h interval prior to the experiment) and sepsis + leflunomide. After the animals were anesthetized with ketamine and xylazine, the abdominal cavity was opened and ligated just below the ileocaecal valve with 3–0 silk. The antimesentric surface of the cecum was perforated and the cecum was gently compressed until fecal matter was extruded to induce sepsis. None of the rats received antibiotics during the experimental procedures. The experiment was ended 24 h after cecal ligation puncture (CLP) with the cervical dislocation under anesthesia. The lung tissues were removed for analysis of biochemical parameters and light microscopic investigation. The lung superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities were decreased in the sepsis group as compared to the group control, sham, leflunomide and sepsis + leflunomide ( P < 0.05), and SOD activity were significantly higher in group sepsis + leflunomide than sham, control, leflunomide and sepsis group ( P < 0.05). The lung MPO, malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl and NO levels were higher in the sepsis group when compared to group control, sham, leflunomide and sepsis + leflunomide ( P < 0.05), and MPO, MDA and NO levels were higher in the sepsis + leflunomide group than in the sham, control and leflunomide group ( P < 0.05). The light microscopic evaluation showed that pulmonary architecture was preserved, and infiltration of neutrophil and edema decreased in sepsis + leflunomide group. The grade of alveolar damage was significantly decreased in sepsis + leflunomide group in comparison with sepsis group ( P < 0.05). Our findings suggested that leflunomide attenuated the lung injury after CLP-induced sepsis by inhibition of neutrophils accumulation and increasing endogenous antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine on the acute hyperdynamic response, duration of seizure activity and recovery times in patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Methods: Fourteen patients underwent a total of 84 ECT sessions as a crossover design. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg IV over a period of 10 min) or saline (control). Anaesthesia was induced with propofol 1 mg/kg, and then succinylcholine 0.5 mg/kg IV was administered. Arterial blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were recorded during the study period. Results: HR in the dexmedetomidine group was lower than that in the control group at 5 and 10 min after the start of study drug infusion, and at 1, 3 and 10 min after the seizure ended ( P<0.05). Peak HR was lower in the dexmedetomidine group compared with that in the control group ( P<0.05). The mean arterial pressure (MAP) values in the dexmedetomidine group were lower at 0, 1, 3 and 10 min after the seizure ended compared with the control group ( P<0.05). Both motor and electroencephalography (EEG) seizure duration in the control group (35.65 ± 14.89 and 49.07 ± 9.94 s, respectively) were similar to that in the dexmedetomidine group (33.30 ± 12.01 and 45.15 ± 17.79 s, respectively) ( P>0.05). Time to spontaneous breathing, eye opening and obeying commands were not different between the groups. Conclusion: A dexmedetomidine dose of 1 μg/kg IV administered over 10 min before the induction of anaesthesia with propofol may be useful in preventing the acute hyperdynamic responses to ECT without altering the duration of seizure activity and recovery time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Infections after epidural and spinal blocks are rare. The topical anesthetic liclocaine used in these procedures has been found to have antibacterial effects on various microorganisms. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the antibacterial effects of alkalinized liclocaine on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: Lidocaine 2%, alkalinized lidocaine, and physiologic saline (as a control solution) were added to standard bacterial preparations. The final concentration of the lidocaine was 10 mg/mL (1%). At baseline and 3 and 6 hours after incubation at 37°C, 3-mL aliquots were vortexed and pipetted into sterile polystyrene spectrophotometer cuvettes. Baseline referred to the end of the period of preparation of the solution (≤20 minutes). Growth was measured as the optical density at a wavelength of 540 nm. Results: Compared with the control, lidocaine significantly inhibited the growth of S aureus, E coli, and P aeruginosa at baseline and 3 and 6 hours after incubation (all, P < 0.05). Alkalinized lidocaine significantly inhibited the growth of S aureus at baseline and 3 and 6 hours (all, P < 0.05), while it significantly inhibited the growth of E coli and P aeruginosa only at 6 hours (both, P < 0.05). The growth of E coli was significantly less in lidocaine than in alkalinized lidocaine at 0 and 3 hours (both, P < 0.05). Conclusion: The antibacterial effect of lidocaine 1% on S aureus was not changed after alkalinization. The effect of alkalinized lidocaine on E coli and P aeruginosa was significant only at 6 hours. Lidocaine significantly inhibited the growth of these 3 microorganisms at all study periods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this randomized, double-blind study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of lornoxicam and ondansetron for the prevention of intrathecal fentanyl-induced pruritus in patients undergoing cesarean section. One hundred and eight parturients (American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] I-II status) requesting neuraxial analgesia by a combined spinal-epidural (CSE) technique were recruited for this study. A CSE technique was performed and anesthesia was achieved with fentanyl 25 µg and hyperbaric bupivacaine 12 mg. Patients were randomly allocated to three groups, each with 36 participants. Immediately following delivery, patients received either lornoxicam 8 mg IV (group L; n = 36), ondansetron 8 mg IV (group O; n = 36), or normal saline 2 ml IV (group P; n = 36). Pruritus, pain, and nausea and vomiting scores were recorded during the initial 24 h postoperatively. The incidence of pruritus was significantly lower in group O from 4 to 12 h postoperatively when compared to that in group L and group P. According to the pruritus grading system we used, the number of patients without pruritus was significantly higher in group O when compared to that in group L and group P. The number of patients experiencing moderate pruritus was significantly lower in group O when compared to that in group P. We observed that the administration of 8 mg IV lornoxicam failed to prevent intrathecal fentanyl-induced pruritus in parturients. Also, our data confirmed that ondansetron is likely to attenuate intrathecal fentanyl-induced pruritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the effects of a single dose of tramadol administered prior to extubation on post-operative pain and morphine consumption after coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods: Patients were randomized post-operatively into two groups (group T, n= 30; group P, n= 30). The technique of anaesthesia was standardized for all patients. The patients in group T received intravenous tramadol, 1 mg/kg, and the patients in group P received 2 ml of saline 0.9%, both approximately 1 h before extubation. After extubation, all patients were allowed to use the morphine patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device for 24 h post-operatively. Post-operative data were recorded in the cardiac intensive care unit at 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, 12 h and 24 h after extubation by the same anaesthesiologist, who had no knowledge of the groups, and the side-effects were also evaluated. Results: In group P, the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were found to be higher 30 min ( P < 0.01), 1 h ( P < 0.01), 2 h ( P < 0.01) and 4 h ( P < 0.05) after extubation. The patient comfort scores were higher in group T 30 min ( P < 0.01), 1 h ( P < 0.05), 2 h ( P < 0.01) and 4 h ( P < 0.01) after extubation. The total morphine consumption was higher in group P at all evaluation times ( P < 0.01), and the numbers of PCA demands and boluses were also higher in group P ( P < 0.01). Conclusions: The study demonstrated that a single dose of tramadol administered prior to extubation following coronary artery bypass surgery is associated with a decrease of up to 25% in morphine consumption, a decrease in the VAS scores and an improvement in patient comfort within the first 4 h post-operatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of a combination of gabapentin and paracetamol with gabapentin alone and placebo on post-operative pain and morphine consumption. Methods: Seventy-five ASA I–II patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy were included in the study and randomly divided into three groups. Placebo capsules (Group I, n= 25), 1200 mg of gabapentin (Group II, n= 25), or 1200 mg of gabapentin and 20 mg/kg paracetamol in combination (Group III, n= 25) were administered 1 h prior to surgery. Anaesthesia was standardized for all patients. Non-invasive arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, morphine consumption, nausea and vomiting, visual analogue scale-pain intensity scores (VAS-PI) and sedation scores were recorded at 1, 2, 4, 6 and 24 h following the operation. Results: Morphine consumption at 24 h was 66.60 ± 11.49 mg, 42.74 ± 12.33 mg and 30.50 ± 11.55 mg, respectively, in groups I, II and III ( P < 0.05). Post-operative VAS-PI scores at movement and at rest were decreased with gabapentin and even more with a combination of gabapentin and paracetamol. Post-operative sedation scores were higher in groups II and III during the initial 4 h while these scores were higher in group I at 24 h. Conclusions: The single dose of gabapentin as well as a combination of gabapentin and paracetamol decreased the opioid requirement and increased the patients’ satisfaction post-operatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of dexpanthenol pastille and benzydamine hydrochloride spray on the prevention of a sore throat. Methods: One hundred and eighty patients undergoing general anaesthesia, who were ASA I–II and with their ages ranging between 15 and 70 years, were randomly allocated to three groups, each consisting of 60 patients. For group B, four puffs of benzydamine hydrochloride were sprayed into the mouth initially 30 min before the operation and repeatedly 5 min before anaesthesia induction. For group D, two pastilles of dexpanthenol were administered orally to be sucked 30 min before the operation. For group P, four puffs of distilled water were sprayed into the mouth initially 30 min before the operation. Post-operatively, patients were evaluated for a sore throat for the duration of 24 h. Results: The incidence of a sore throat was significantly lower for group D when compared with group B and group P. The incidence of a sore throat was similar for group B and group P. According to the sore throat grading system, the number of patients experiencing no complaints was significantly higher for group D when compared with group B and group P. The number of patients achieving moderate scores was significantly higher for group B when compared with group D. Conclusion: The administration of 200 mg of dexpanthenol prophylactically before endotracheal intubation is effective in the prevention of post-operative sore throat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pre-operative dexmedetomidine infusion on hemodynamics in patients with pulmonary hypertension undergoing mitral valve replacement surgery. Methods: Patients were randomly divided into placebo (group P, n= 16) and dexmedetomidine (group D, n= 16) groups. In group D, a 1 μg/kg bolus dose of dexmedetomidine was administered 10 min before the induction of anesthesia, followed by a 0.4 μg/kg/h infusion until the surgical incision. Anesthesia was induced with lidocaine (1 mg/kg), midazolam (0.2 mg/kg) and fentanyl (5 μg/kg) in both groups. Anesthesia was maintained with 0.5% isoflurane and fentanyl depending on the hemodynamic situation. The hemodynamic values during the investigation were obtained. Results: In group D, the mean arterial pressure (MAP), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) were decreased effectively in comparison with the values in the placebo group ( P < 0.05), and there was an attenuation in the increase in the systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) and pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI) at the post-sternotomy period. Conclusions: The pre-operative administration of the α2-agonist dexmedetomidine decreases the fentanyl requirement and attenuates the increase in SVRI and PVRI at the post-sternotomy period relative to the baseline levels, and decreases effectively MAP, MPAP and PCWP in comparison with the values in the placebo group, in patients with pulmonary hypertension undergoing mitral valve replacement surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the effects of methylene blue (MB) on NO production, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in lung injury during different stages of sepsis in rats. Material and Methods: Rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 20): group C, sham operated; group CMB, sham operated and receiving MB (25 mg/kg, i.p.); group S, sepsis; group SMB, sepsis and receiving MB (25 mg/kg, i.p.). Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The MB dose was administered after CLP. Each group was subdivided into two subgroups (n = 10) which were sacrificed at 9 or 18 h after the surgical procedure. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and MPO activity, total nitrite/nitrate and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the lung tissue were measured. Lung injury was graded from 1 (injury to 25% of the field) to 4 (diffuse injury) by the pathologist. Results: In group SMB, while SOD and CAT increased in both early and late sepsis periods, GSH-PX increased significantly only in the early sepsis period when compared with group S. Increase in lung MPO activity after CLP-induced sepsis was prevented by MB administration. MB significantly decreased to nitrite/nitrate and MDA levels both in early and late sepsis periods when compared with group S (p < 0.05). Group S showed a marked increase in neutrophil infiltration into the interstitial space and thickening of the alveolar septa, whereas the alveolar damage score was lower in the SMB group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: MB reduced the MPO activity and lipid peroxidation by both decreasing oxidative stress and NO overproduction in the lungs, which resulted in the attenuation of lung injury after CLP-induced sepsis in rats. Copyright © 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Reactive oxygen species play a role during brain injury due to closed head trauma. Enzymatic or nonenzymatic antioxidants may protect brain tissue against oxidative damage. The present study was performed to assess the changes of endogenous indices of oxidative stress in serum from rats subjected to head trauma and whether treatment with propofol and/or erythropoietin (EPO) modifies the levels of endogenous indices of oxidative stress. For these purposes, female Wistar Albino rats were divided into five groups: non-traumatic sham group, trauma performed control, trauma with propofol (i.p.), trauma with EPO (i.p.) and trauma with propofol and EPO performed study groups. At the end of the experimental procedure, blood was taken by cardiac puncture to determine superoxide dismutase (SOD) and xanthine oxidase (XO) activities as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in serum. Serum MDA level of control traumatic brain injury (TBI) group was significantly higher than sham operation group (p &#60;0.012). Serum MDA levels in propofol, EPO and propofol+EPO groups were found to be decreased in comparison with control group (p &#60;0.039, p &#60;0.030 and p &#60;0.018, respectively). Serum NO level was found to be increased in TBI group, but difference was not statistically significant when compared to sham-operated group (p =0.092). Propofol, EPO and propofol+EPO administration efficiently reduced serum NO levels to reach sham-operated group (p &#60;0.002, p &#60;0.001 and p &#60;0.015, respectively). These results suggested that acute administration of both propofol and EPO altered the indices of oxidative stress similarly against brain injury due to trauma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary Background: Laryngospasm is the most common cause of upper airway obstruction after tracheal extubation. Magnesium has a central nervous system depressant property, which contributes to the depth of anaesthesia. It also has calcium antagonist properties, which provide muscle relaxation. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of magnesium on preventing laryngospasm. Methods: After approval of the Ethics Committee and informed parental consent, 40 patients, ASA I–II, aged 3–12 years, who were scheduled for tonsillectomy or/and adenoidectomy, were randomly divided into two groups. Anaesthesia was induced with sevoflurane, lidocaine 1 mg·kg-1 , alfentanil 10 µg·kg-1 , vecuronium 0.1 mg·kg-1 and maintained with sevoflurane 2% and 60% nitrous oxide in oxygen. After intubation, patients in group I received 15 mg·kg-1 magnesium in 30 ml 0.9% NaCl over 20 min. Patients in group II received 0.9% NaCl alone in the same volume. After reversal of neuromuscular blockade, all patients were extubated at a very deep plane of anaesthesia. The incidence of laryngospasm was determined until the time of discharge from the postanaesthesia care unit. Results: Although laryngospasm was not observed in group I, it was observed in five patients in group II (25%). The incidence of laryngospasm in group II was significantly higher than group I. The plasma magnesium concentrations were significantly higher in group I than group II. Conclusions: We found a significant decrease in the incidence of laryngospasm in paediatric patients receiving magnesium. It is suggested that the use of intravenous magnesium intraoperatively may prevent laryngospasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We evaluated the effect of oral clonidine on postoperative vomiting (POV) in children undergoing strabismus surgery.Methods: Eighty ASA physical status I children aged 3-12 years were randomly assigned to one of two groups in a double-blinded manner. One hour before surgery, each patient in the clonidine group (n=40) received clonidine 4 micro g kg-1 in apple juice 0.2 ml kg-1, and each of the controls (n=40) received apple juice 0.2 ml kg-1 only. The protocol for general anesthesia was propofol-sevoflurane in N2O/O2. A paracetamol suppository was administered in each case to prevent postoperative pain. Patient responses during 0-48 h after anesthesia were recorded as complete (no POV, no antiemetic rescue required), retching, vomiting, or rescue antiemetic.Results: There were no significant differences between the clonidine and control groups regarding the number of patients with complete response (21 vs. 18, respectively) retching (10 vs. 14, respectively), vomiting (19 vs. 22, respectively), or rescue antiemetic (9 vs. 12, respectively) during the first 48 h.Conclusion: Oral premedication with clonidine 4 micro g kg-1 did not reduce the rate of POV in the children undergoing strabismus surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents letters to the editor on topics related to heart diseases. Early clinical application of assisted circulation; Secondary cross-clamping and blood cardioplegia for refractory ventricular fibrillation after aortic cross-clamp removal; Indication for chest tube after pneumonectomy.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome often occurs as a side effect of antipsychotic drugs. The syndrome is characterized by altered consciousness, hemodynamic instability, fever, muscle rigidity and susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia therefore anesthetic management is important. Electroconvulsive therapy used to in the treatment of psychotic symptoms with neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Succinylcholine is used as a muscle relaxant in the electroconvulsive therapy. Succinylcholine should be used cautiously in patients with suspected malignant hyperthermia. Suggammadex that antagonized of non-depolarizing muscle relaxants is used as easy and safe increasingly in recent years. This case report describes the use of rocuronium-sugammadex accompanied with literature for the anesthetic management of neuroleptic malignant syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome consists of various abnormalities, such as exomphalos, macroglossia, hypoglcemia, visceromegaly, omphalocele, gigantism. Patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome frequently require surgical intervention during infant period. Common problems associated with anesthetic management of Beckwith- Wiedemann syndrome are difficult airway and hypoglycemia. Macroglossia might cause difficult ventilation and intubation for that reason preparation for airway difficulty should be made before induction. Intraoperative plasma glucose monitoring is particularly important to prevent the neurologic sequelae. In this presentation, we addressed the use of laryngeal mask may be an alternation to the endotracheal tube patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann which consist potentially difficult airway anatomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosing spondilitis is a chronic, painful, autoimmune seronegative spondyloarthropaty. Both airway management and neuroaxial block of patients with ankylosing spondilitis may have difficulties for anaesthetist. We aimed to present a patient with ankylosing spondilitis that was applied to spinal anaesthesia with lateral approach for total hip replacement surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details experience of anesthetic management of an infant with Conradi's syndrome who underwent surgery for bilateral congenital cataracts. Detection of calcified stippling of a widened cricoid; Performance of intubation; Monitoring of blood pressure during surgery.

A response by F. Erdil and colleagues to a letter to the editor about the article intrathecal drug in the 2010 issue is presented.