Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to I Barni Comparini.
The production of hyoscyamine and scopolamine in Datura stramonium has been investigated in the different plant parts, at different stages of their life cycle. Maximum contents were found in the stems and leaves of young plants, hyoscyamine being always the predominant component.
The results of qualitative and quantitative analysis of some amphetamines and their analogs isolated from urine samples by solid phase micro-extraction with polydimethylsiloxane fibers are reported. The analytical method employed was gas-chromatography/mass spectrometry of head space samples.
Binding features of heroin in whole blood and in blood fractions were delineated by measuring the selective spin-lattice relaxation rates of heroin protons in physiologic conditions. Interaction with some receptor located in the whole human blood or in the human plasma was detected and the apparent binding constant calculated (K = 39 mol-1 dm3). Inferences about molecular dynamics of the bound heroin could be also gained.
A rapid and reliable fluorescence procedure is described as a test for the microscopical identification of the glandular hairs of Cannabis sativa. The proposed method, designated as the IFIM test (induced fluorescence identification for marijuana test), is based on the induction of a red fluorescence in cannabinoids by a hot clearing solution. The results, compared to those obtained by the classical RIM test, offer the possibility of more satisfactory identification of cannabis, hashish or marijuana in suspected samples.
The identification and the quantitative estimation of cannabis constituents is important for forensic purposes. High resolution gas-chromatography gives better results than gas-liquid chromatography with packed columns, as it shows a better resolution and higher number of constituents. Different quantitative values were found with the two chromatographic procedures. High-pressure liquid chromatography revealed the presence of cannabinoid acids in fresh cut influorescences of cannabis plants. The ratio acid/neutral cannabinoid may be useful in supplying information about the age of the cannabis preparations.
Rats were treated with HgCl2 and/or alcohol per os in a standard diet as to get a chronic intoxication. Histological and ultrastructural examination of the liver, GPT, GOT, LDH enzymatic activities, and toxicological mercury evaluation were performed. Liver cell degenerative changes with focal necrosis, and structural alteration and fibrosis were demonstrated in the group of rats treated with HgCl2. The combined administration of HgCl2 and alcohol did not result in more advanced lesions, even if steatosis could be demonstrated in the liver. An increase of the GPT, GOT and LDH enzymatic activities was demonstrated in the rats of both groups but it was higher in the rats treated with HgCl2 and alcohol combined. On the contrary, the liver and kidney mercury storage was higher in the rats treated with HgCl2 alone.