4-Dimethylaminophenol hydrochloride (DMAP-HCl) is widely recognized as a potent antidote for cyanide poisoning in both animal and human subjects. However, its clinical use is occasionally limited by severe in vivo toxicity, necessitating precise monitoring and quantification. In this study, we report the development of a highly sensitive differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) method employing a gold (Au) electrode modified with silver nanoparticles supported by carbon quantum dots (AgCDs). This modification significantly enhances the electrochemical properties of the gold electrode for the redox reaction of DMAP-HCl. Carbon quantum dots (CDs) were synthesized from pineapple peel juice via a hydrothermal approach and subsequently utilized as both reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Characterization of the CDs and the AgCDs composite using KMnO4/H2SO4, bromothymol blue (BTB), and Tollens reagents confirmed the presence of alcohol, carboxyl, and carbonyl functional groups on their surface, which are essential for electrochemical activity. Under optimized conditions in a Na₂SO₄ electrolytic solution, the AgCDs/Au electrode demonstrated a linear detection range from 3 ng/mL to 70 ng/mL, with an exceptionally low limit of detection of 0.1 ng/mL. These results highlight the potential of the AgCDs/Au electrode as a robust and sensitive platform for the accurate quantification of DMAP-HCl, offering promising applications in both clinical and environmental monitoring.

Background: Acute cyanide poisoning of dietary origin is a rare but potentially fatal cause of pediatric intoxication. In young children, ingestion of cyanogenic plants or seeds may lead to rapid clinical deterioration, particularly when diagnosis and specific antidotal treatment are delayed. Such cases pose significant clinical and medico-legal challenges, especially in contexts involving traditional food or medicinal practices. Case presentation: We report the case of a two-year-old boy admitted with sudden impairment of consciousness progressing to deep coma. Initial clinical assessment did not identify a clear etiology. Subsequent medical history revealed ingestion of bitter apricot kernels stored within the domestic environment for traditional use. The child developed severe metabolic acidosis and neurological failure. Toxicological analysis confirmed a markedly elevated blood cyanide concentration (0.8 mg/L). Despite intensive supportive care, including mechanical ventilation and hemodynamic support, the specific antidote hydroxocobalamin could not be administered due to unavailability. The clinical course was rapidly unfavorable, culminating in multiorgan failure and death. In accordance with judicial procedures, an external forensic examination was ordered by the Public Prosecutor. Given the clarity of the circumstances, the well-documented clinical course, and the unequivocal antemortem toxicological confirmation of cyanide poisoning, a full medico-legal autopsy was not deemed necessary. Conclusion: This case illustrates the potentially preventable nature of food-related cyanide poisoning in children and underscores the decisive role of early etiological diagnosis and timely access to specific antidotal therapy. Beyond establishing the cause of death, the observation highlights the importance of a comprehensive medico-legal approach integrating clinical analysis, healthcare system organization, and child protection considerations. Strengthening preventive strategies and ensuring availability of life-saving antidotes are essential to reduce avoidable pediatric deaths related to domestic toxic exposures.

Artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) experience high prevalence of disease, notably tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficieny virus (HIV), silicosis, sexually transmitted infections, substance misuse, and mercury and cyanide toxicity. Despite this, targeted healthcare interventions are limited. To explore the perceptions of ASMs and their leaders/representatives in relation to a 5-year targeted health screening intervention for ASMs in Zimbabwe. Screening included TB, HIV and silicosis. Insights were also gathered from healthcare staff, academics and national stakeholders involved in the project. Focus-group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 31 participants (13 ASMs and ASMs' representatives, 6 healthcare staff and academics, and 12 representatives from national organizations). Participants were asked to reflect on their experience and understanding of health screening activities for ASMs, as well as what further healthcare activity is required. Artisanal and small-scale miners felt that screening activity was beneficial. Fear and stigma were the main barriers to healthcare access during initial implementation; however, this was alleviated through collaboration with ASMs leadership and peer-officers. Health priorities identified for future healthcare activity included development of a health-screening checklist for ASMs, strengthening access to information, decentralization of occupational health services and addressing a greater package of health. Cross-collaboration between the mining sector, Ministry of Health and Childcare and other national stakeholders was identified as a priority. Targeted health screening and care is needed for this neglected and vulnerable group. The workplace screening offered a model to address this; however, more work is needed to ensure that ASMs in other locations and with additional health priorities are reached.

The effect of ancillary ligands on vasodilatory activity of nitrosyl ruthenium complexes.

Cyanide toxicity from high-dose nitroprusside infusion in a critically ill patient on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Examining the role of cyanide poisoning in the autopsies of closed-space fire deaths in Istanbul (Türkiye).

The precise and noninvasive detection of thiosulfate, an essential antidote for cyanide poisoning, is critical for both clinical toxicology and environmental monitoring. In this work, the development of an electroactive copper-cyanurate (Cu-CYA) coordination polymer, engineered as a highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor for thiosulfate detection in biological fluids, is reported. The sensor material is synthesized via a straightforward coordination-driven self-assembly process, yielding a porous framework with abundant active sites, excellent redox properties, and superior electron transfer capability. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization confirms the structural integrity and favorable interfacial kinetics of the Cu-CYA/graphite pencil electrode (GPE) sensor. Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry analyses reveal a robust and linear response to thiosulfate concentrations ranging from 100 to 500 nM, with a remarkable sensitivity of 2.94 µA cm-2 nM-1 and an exceptionally low limit of detection of 0.32 nM. The sensor exhibits high selectivity against potential interferents and maintains 93.3% of its initial response after 30 days, underscoring its long-term functional reliability. Notably, real sample analysis using human saliva demonstrates a mean recovery of 97.5%, validating the sensor's practical applicability in complex biological matrices. This study establishes Cu-CYA as a powerful electrochemical sensing platform for thiosulfate monitoring, offering new prospects for portable diagnostics in healthcare and environmental safety.

Abstract Cyanide poisoning is a relevant cause of acute toxicity and accounts for 39% of suicide cases in Colombia, particularly in Bogotá. Cyanide is easily accessible in various forms, such as industrial applications, specific foods and fire exposure, which makes it a highly dangerous substance. The toxicity of cyanide lies in its ability to inhibit vital enzymes, such as cytochrome c oxidase, disrupting cellular respiration and generating severe tissue hypoxia. This can rapidly lead to lactic acidosis, multi-organ dysfunction and, in severe cases, death. The management of cyanide poisoning includes the administration of antidotes such as nitrites and cyanocobalamin, which act by neutralizing cyanide in the body. However, when these antidotes are not available, as in many cases in Colombia, the use of methylene blue has emerged as an effective therapeutic alternative. This compound, with a unique mechanism of action, captures cyanide and improves cardiac and mitochondrial function, making it a viable option in toxicological emergencies. Keywords: Methylene Blue; Cyanides; Poisoning; Chemically-Induced Disorders; Therapeutics

Postreperfusion syndrome is a complication seen after graft reperfusion in liver transplantation. Anesthesiologists counter this physiological response with a variety of medications including high-dose vasopressors, hydrocortisone, methylene blue, and hydroxocobalamin. These treatment modalities are contingent on availability, a fact brought to light by a national shortage of hydroxocobalamin in 2025. Subsequently, hospitals earmarked its use specifically for patients with cyanide poisoning. In this case report, we describe the use of ascorbic acid as a potential adjunct for the treatment of postreperfusion syndrome during liver transplantation.

This study examined how a methanolic extract of the macrofungal Pleurotus ostreatus protected rats' testicles from the toxicity caused by potassium cyanide (KCN). For 60 days, KCN was taken orally at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg body weight, either with or without Pleurotus ostreatus methanol extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Testicular histopathology, body and organ weight, organosomatic indices, serum testosterone, epididymal sperm count, testicular lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and superoxide dismutase) were assessed. Lipid peroxidation was significantly increased by KCN intoxication, while antioxidant enzyme activities, serum testosterone levels, and the number of epididymal sperm were all significantly reduced. Additionally, testicular degenerations were noted. The co-administration of KCN and Pleurotus ostreatus extract resulted in a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and an increase in antioxidant enzyme activities, serum testosterone concentration, epididymal sperm count, and testicular histology restoration. This finding implies that by strengthening the antioxidant defense system, Pleurotus ostreatus may be able to lessen the harmful effects of dietary cyanide toxicity on testicular function.

Generation and distribution of cyanide in rats and humans following sodium cyanoborohydride exposure.

Cyanide-based electrolytes are extensively used for plating noble metals such as gold, silver or copper. In fact, metal with a high redox potential form complexes with cyanide ions, which significantly lowered its potential. The phenomenon reduces the displacement deposition reaction onto a substrate of a less noble metal (typically brass or nickel underlayer) which can be problematic. In addition, cyanide-based electrolytes exhibit a great stability due to very high formation constant of complexes with metals, much higher than other chelating compounds. Different complexes formation with the same metal are possible depending on the ratio metal/cyanide. In electroplating processes, an excess of “free” cyanide is added to maintain the balance in favor of the formation of the cyanide complex(es).The toxicity of cyanides is well established: In addition to the accidental risk of hydrogen cyanide generation for example, a lethal toxic gas formed by the action of an acid on an alkaline cyanide, there are also critical health effects resulting from chronic exposure (long-term) to free/simple cyanides (HCN and NaCN). However, these risks are well controlled by applicators by separating cyanide and acid lines and providing proper safety equipment. Another downside of cyanide-based electrolytes is the necessary oxidation step of wastewater before their discharge. In addition to the cost and space of this process, sodium hypochlorite, the main oxidizing agent used, has its own hazard and environmental impact. In view of these risks, regulations surrounding cyanides encourage manufacturers to limit their use. More specifically, a quantity of cyanide above a certain threshold on the same site can lead to a classification that is very restrictive for the daily operation of the site. Silver plating, which can use large bath volumes, is particularly targeted. All these arguments support the development of alternative, non-cyanide silver plating electrolytes.In the 1970s, the first cyanide-free silver formulations using thiosulfates as complexing agents appeared. However, these electrolytes have never had any real industrial applications due to their sensitivity to light. Since then, several alternatives have been proposed using thiourea, EDTA, acetate, uracil or hydantoins. Although solutions using thiourea are promising, the classification of this molecule as a proven carcinogen prevents its industrial deployment [1]. Today, the use of nitrogen heterocycles in cyanide-free silver-plating baths seems to be the best option, partly due to their low toxicity. Among them, 5,5-dimethylhydantoin, known for its chelating power on metals [2], has a high affinity with silver to form [Ag(DMH)2]- complexes in an alkaline medium. Thus, several publications and patents concerning non-cyanide silver plating baths using 5,5-dimethylhydantoin have emerged since the early 2010 [3]. Nevertheless, obtaining a coating as effective as from a cyanide bath can prove complex and requires the addition of numerous compounds (co-complexing agents, surfactants, hardeners, grain refiners, etc.) that are sometimes toxic.The SILAHPERF(SILver Alloys High PERFormances) project, led jointly by IRT M2P and the UTINAM institute, aims to explore the electrodeposition of silver and its alloys using non-cyanide electrolytes. A wide range of complexing agents were studied in solution with silver nitrate at various pH and ligand/metal ratios. Their influence on electrolyte stability and electrochemical response were considered. By sorting the molecules used by their functional group, this work aims to give an overview of the complexation of silver in aqueous medium[1] Safety Data Sheet Sigma-Alrich Thiourea CAS n ◦ 66-56-6, (n.d.).[2] G.Z. Pavlovich, R.G. Luthy, Complexation of metals with hydantoins, Water Res. 22 (1988) 327–336, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0043-1354(88)90160-1.[3] A. Liu, X. Ren, C. Wang, J. Zhang, C. Du, R. Han, M. An, DMH and NA–based cyanide-free silver electroplating bath: a promising alternative to cyanide ones in microelectronics, Ionics (Kiel) 27 (2021) 417–422, https://doi.org/10.1007/ s11581-020-03541-5.

This study investigated the impact of chronic consumption of cassava flakes on vision, and the ameliorative potential of Carica papaya seed and red onion on these effects. Cassava flakes, widely consumed in Nigeria, contain cyanogenic glycosides that can lead to cyanide toxicity, resulting in visual impairments. Using an experimental approach, forty Swiss white mice (40-50 g) were randomly divided into four groups of ten mice each. The groups were assigned specific treatments: Group 1 served as the control (distilled water) plus rat feeds, Group 2 received normal rat feed and cassava flakes, Group 3 was treated with normal rat feeds plus cassava flakes plus 4mls/kg of red onion extract, Group 4 received normal rat feeds plus cassava flakes plus 4mls/kg of Carica papaya seed extract. Visual acuity test was done using the Visual Water Maze. Results revealed that mice in the Cassava flakes-only group exhibited significant deficits in visual performance, with corresponding neuronal and retinal damage. Supplementation with Carica papaya seed extract and onion extract ameliorated these effects, improving vision and reducing oxidative stress and tissue damage. These findings underscore the adverse effects of chronic consumption of cassava flakes and highlight the neuroprotective and restorative properties of Carica papaya seed extract and onion juice.

Cyanide is a toxic chemical agent classified as a blood agent, which has been previously used in warfare and acts of terrorism. Cyanide exerts its toxic effects primarily by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase (complex IV) in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, which is essential for aerobic cellular respiration. Numerous methods based on colorimetric reactions have been investigated for the detection of cyanide poisoning; however, these techniques typically suffer from low sensitivity, prolonged detection times, and safety risks due to direct exposure to the chemicals. This paper presents a novel method for detecting cyanide in aqueous solutions. Under the established optimal conditions, cyanide was detected with a low detection limit of about 20 ng/mL. This method has the potential to be developed into a rapid on-site detection kit for cyanide in aquatic solutions.

Rationale:Cyanide poisoning is a life-threatening condition that impairs cellular oxygen utilization, leading to lactic acidosis. However, serum cyanide levels are not readily available in clinical settings, making diagnosis and treatment monitoring difficult. In this report, we describe the treatment of a patient with severe cyanide poisoning using serum lactate levels as an indicator of the effectiveness of the treatment.Patient concerns:A 70-year-old man with suspected cyanide poisoning was transported to the emergency department in an unconscious state approximately 45 minutes after poisoning.Diagnoses:Laboratory findings revealed severe lactic acidosis (pH 7.07) with a high lactate level (19.0 mmol/L) and hypertension. Based on his history and clinical presentation, cyanide poisoning was strongly suspected.Interventions:The patient received antidotes and supportive care, including high-concentration oxygen therapy and antihypertensive medication. Serum lactate levels and blood cyanide concentrations were periodically measured to monitor treatment response.Outcomes:The patient’s consciousness improved with decreasing lactate levels, achieving full consciousness approximately 9 hours after poisoning. Finally, he was discharged from the intensive care unit without apparent sequelae and transferred to a psychiatric ward.Lessons:This case highlights the utility of serum lactate as an accessible biomarker for diagnosing cyanide poisoning and evaluating treatment efficacy. Given the unavailability of rapid cyanide assays in most clinical settings, serial lactate monitoring may aid in guiding therapeutic decisions.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is an important drought-tolerant root crop suitable for arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), yet its adoption in Eastern Kenya remains limited, contributing less than 10% to national cassava production. This study evaluated eight cassava varieties across three ASAL sites namely, Southeastern Kenya University (Kitui County), Lukenya University (Makueni County), and Scott Christian University (Machakos County), to identify high-yielding and well-adapted cultivars. Field experiments covering five acres per site were established using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The evaluated materials included four farmer-selected landraces (Kasukari, Mzungu, Kitwa, and a local check) and four improved cultivars, including Migyera and two KALRO-developed lines. Growth parameters, yield components, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) concentrations in tubers were assessed and analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least significant difference (LSD) tests at α = 0.05. Significant varietal differences (p < 0.01) were observed in plant height, leaf morphology, tuber number, and yield. Kasukari, Mzungu, and Migyera consistently exhibited superior performance, achieving plant heights exceeding 2.5 m and yields ranging from 15 to 18 tons per hectare. These varieties also recorded lower HCN levels (45–55 mg/ kg) compared to others that exceeded 70 mg/kg. Although all varieties surpassed the recommended safe food threshold (10 mg/kg), appropriate processing can mitigate cyanide toxicity. No major pest or disease outbreaks were observed. The results identify Kasukari, Mzungu, and Migyera as promising cultivars for ASAL conditions, with potential to enhance food security and promote cassava-based value addition in Kenya’s drylands.

Background: Konzo is a neurological disorder caused by prolonged consumption of poorly processed bitter cassava, leading to upper motor neuron damage and spastic paralysis. Nutritional deficiency, particularly low sulphur amino acids, exacerbates cyanide toxicity. This study evaluated the effects of bitter cassava and dietary rehabilitation on body weight, motor performance, muscle mass, and cerebral cortex histology in Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty-five female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n=5): control, cassava only, cassava + animal feed, cassava + eggshell and brown beans, and eggshell and brown beans only. Rats were fed for four weeks, with body weight measured weekly. Motor function was assessed using the single-pellet reach-to-grasp task. Muscle wet weight (biceps and flexor carpi radialis) was determined post-dissection, and cerebral cortex histology was analyzed using Nissl staining. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05). Results: Cassava-only rats showed weight loss (−2.94%), decreased reach-to-grasp success (46.92 ± 5.07%), and mild muscle atrophy. Dietary supplementation improved outcomes: cassava + animal feed rats gained +9.77% body weight and showed enhanced motor performance (+8.11%), while cassava + eggshell and brown beans rats demonstrated +12.13% improvement in reach-to-grasp and increased muscle mass (biceps: 0.20 ± 0.02 g; flexor carpi radialis: 0.20 ± 0.01 g). Histology revealed disorganized cortical layers, pyknotic pyramidal cells, and chromatolysis in cassava-only rats, whereas amino acid supplementation largely restored cortical cytoarchitecture. Conclusion: Poorly processed bitter cassava induces neurotoxicity, motor deficits, and muscle atrophy in rats. Sulphur amino acid-rich diets mitigate these effects and promote neuronal restoration. Proper cassava processing and dietary protein supplementation are crucial to prevent Konzo.

Both irritant and asphyxiant gases are hazardous substances that, when inhaled, can cause a spectrum of respiratory complications, ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening respiratory failure. These gases are classified into three main categories based on their mechanisms of toxicity: pulmonary irritants, simple asphyxiants, and chemical asphyxiants. Pulmonary irritants, such as chlorine, phosgene, and ammonia, cause direct injury to the respiratory mucosa, leading to inflammation, bronchospasm, and pulmonary edema. Simple asphyxiants, including nitrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, displace oxygen in the environment, resulting in hypoxia and potentially fatal respiratory depression. Chemical asphyxiants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and hydrogen sulfide, interfere with oxygen transport or cellular respiration, causing systemic hypoxia at the mitochondrial level. Diagnosis of the gas exposure relies on a detailed history of exposure, clinical symptoms, and laboratory investigations, including arterial blood gas analysis, pulse oximetry, and carboxyhemoglobin or methemoglobin levels. Management involves immediate removal from the toxic environment, decontamination, oxygen supplementation, and supportive treatment. Specific antidotes, such as hydroxocobalamin for cyanide poisoning and methylene blue for methemoglobinemia, may be required in severe cases. Given the potential for rapid deterioration, early recognition and prompt intervention are essential in preventing morbidity and mortality. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the toxicology, pathophysiology, and management strategies associated with asphyxiant gas exposure.

Imidazo-phenanthroline based ratiometric optical sensing platform for cyanide and fluoride ions.

Background: Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) is a systemic medical procedure in which a patient is placed within a specially designed hyperbaric chamber and given a high proportion of oxygen at pressures greater than one atmosphere. These days, it is being increasingly utilised to treat medical diseases including decompression illness and to help patients with chronic conditions like osteonecrosis, hypoxic wounds, air or gas embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning; cyanide poisoning; smoke inhalation. Objectives: This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge and practice of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a treatment modality among Nigeria trained doctors. Methodology: This study was carried out using a 24-question anonymous questionnaire to gauge participants’ awareness, knowledge, and use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The study’s participants were qualified Nigerian physicians, and descriptive statistics were used to examine the data. Results: The study observed that most of these doctors demonstrated limited awareness and knowledge of HBOT. Sadly, about 86% reported never visited a hyperbaric unit or chamber which is a critical facility for HBOT delivery. Similarly, only 23% and 15% knew HBOT is indicated for carbon monoxide poisoning and gas embolism. Conclusion: The findings of the study simply reflect the huge awareness and knowledge gap as well as practice of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy among Nigeria trained doctors. Therefore, there is need for all concerned authorities to urgently set up awareness campaigns, training programs and set up centres for hyperbaric oxygen therapy to bridge this knowledge and practice gap.