Veterinary and human toxicology
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Three outbreaks of hepatogenous photosensitization caused by pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum are reported in cattle. Clinical signs were anorexia, depression, photosensitization and abortion. Most affected cattle recovered in 30-40 d. ⋯ Fruits of the plants administrated to 2 calves produced clinical signs and 2/4 died. Clinical chemistry, gross necropsies and histopathology confirmed gastrointestinal irritation and liver degeneration. One calf dosed with only E contortisiliquum leaves did not develop clinical signs.
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The normal cholinesterase activity in brain tissue was measured in 15 mammalian and 44 avian species using the Ellman method. Enzyme activity exhibited considerable interspecies variability. In mammals, the enzyme activities ranged from approximately 2 to 10 micromole/min/g of wet tissue. ⋯ Enzyme activities in avian species ranged from approximately 10 to 30 micromole/min/g. Comparisons for uniformity of enzyme activity between closely related avian species were poor in most instances. The considerable variability of the brain cholinesterase activities in avian and mammalian species illustrates the need for reliable normal values for individual species to improve ability to monitor environmental exposure or to confirm acute poisonings associated with organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.
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Metformin poisoning is not common and is usually associated with lactic acidosis and acute hepatitis. A case of metformin-poisoning associated with acute pancreatitis is reported here for the first time.
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Tricyclic antidepressants are a common cause of self poisoning. Since these drugs are highly lipid soluble, we examined the interaction between imipramine and a lipid emulsion. ⋯ The rats who received the lipid emulsion had a significantly lower mortality. The role of lipid emulsions poisoning therapy is reviewed.