Aim: Prolonged QT interval is a common finding in diabetic patients. The effects of streptozotocin (STZ) – induced diabetes on QT interval has been investigated by application of 4 standard QT correction algorithms. Methods: The electrocardiogram was recorded in STZ-treated (60 mg/kg bodyweight, ip) and age-matched control rats with a biotelemetry system for the period of the study. Results: Heart rate (HR) was significantly (P<0.01) reduced and QT interval was signifycantly (P<0.05) prolonged in diabetic rats compared to controls at 8, 10 and 12 weeks after STZ treatment. At 8 weeks HR was 260±16 BPM (n=5) in diabetic rats compared to 333±25 BPM (n=5) in controls and QT interval was 70±7 ms (n=5) in diabetic rats compared to 59±6 ms (n=5) in controls. When QT interval was corrected for HR there was no longer any significant difference in QT interval between diabetic and control rats. The effects of different correction techniques have been compared and the consequences considered. Conclusion: The rapid and dramatic reductions in HR observed after administration of STZ are associated with a prolongation of the QT interval. However, the magnitude of the difference of the QT interval between the STZ and control groups was not significant after QT interval correction for the difference in HR.

Background: While extensive research data is available on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) from industrialized countries, very few studies have been undertaken in the developing countries including the Arab world. Methods: A representative random sample of school children aged 5 to 16 years was evaluated for the prevalence of ADHD using the Conner Parent and Teacher Scale in Dubai, Al Ain and Ras Al-Khaima to represent the urban, semi-urban and rural population of UAE. Results: The rate of ADHD was 4.1% as per the parent report and 3.4% as per the teacher report. Children with ADHD were noted to have a range of psychiatric co-morbidity. Conclusion: Our findings suggest the importance of comprehensive and early screening program for ADHD and we hope that this data on the prevalence and associated factors can provide the basis for setting priorities and designing interventions.