Integrated processing methodology to identify the spatial variability of accumulated infiltration for agricultural soil

The infiltration of water in the soil, and its variation in space, is essential to establish the irrigation schedule for crops and to evaluate the possible degrading effects on the soil. The objective was to develop an integrated processing methodology in Rstudio to identify the spatial variability of the accumulated infiltration, in two phases related to pea crops. Field sampling was carried out on a rectangular mesh with 48 points per moment, using double infiltrometer rings. The data were evaluated by means of geostatistical tools adjusted with programming code in Rstudio, defining the relationships between the magnitudes of the accumulated infiltration, for different test instants, without the need to make statistical adjustments to the normality of variables, discriminated over a period between 1 and 80 minutes. The results suggest the existence of spatial variability of the accumulated infiltration in the two evaluated phases, considering that most of the analyzed data were adjusted to multiple variance models, maintaining a degree of spatial dependence, and validating the effectiveness of the adjusted methodology developed and implemented. The spatial relationships were corroborated by means of contour maps, where the spatial variation of the accumulated infiltration between the two identified cultivation moments was observed. The reliability of the interpolation by the Ordinary Kriging method was verified by generating variance maps, establishing the degree of homogeneity of the interpolation. The variability of infiltration confirms the validity of the adjusted methodology implemented.

La infiltración del agua en el suelo y su variación espacial es fundamental para establecer la programación de riego en los cultivos y evaluar los posibles efectos degradativos en el suelo. El objetivo fue desarrollar una metodología de procesamiento integrado en Rstudio, para identificar la variabilidad espacial de la infiltración acumulada, en dos fases para un cultivo de arveja. El muestreo de campo se adelantó sobre una malla rectangular georreferenciada con 48 puntos, por cada momento, utilizando anillos infiltrómetros dobles. Los datos fueron evaluados por medio de herramientas geoestadísticas, ajustadas con código de programación en Rstudio, definiendo las relaciones entre las magnitudes de la infiltración acumulada, para diferentes instantes de prueba, sin la necesidad de realizar ajustes estadísticos de normalidad de variables, discriminados en un periodo entre 1 y 80 minutos. Los resultados sugieren la existencia de variabilidad espacial de la infiltración acumulada en las dos fases evaluadas, considerando que, la mayoría de los datos analizados, se ajustaron a múltiples modelos de semivarianza, manteniendo grados de dependencia espacial, particularmente, respecto al máximo valor acumulado de infiltración, validando la eficacia de la metodología ajustada. Las relaciones espaciales fueron corroboradas con mapas de contorno, en donde se observó la variación espacial de la infiltración acumulada entre los momentos de cultivo identificados. La confiabilidad de la interpolación por el método Kriging ordinario, se verificó mediante la generación mapas de varianza, estableciendo el grado de homogeneidad de la interpolación. La variabilidad de la infiltración confirma la validez de la metodología ajustada implementada.

Vasorelaxant effects and mechanism of polyphenol compound LM 49 on isolated thoracic aorta of rats / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To study the vasorelaxant effects and mechanism of polyphenol compound 2，4′，5′-trihydroxy-5，2′- dibromo-diphenyl-methanone（LM49）on isolated aortic rings of rats. METHODS Thoracic aortic vascular rings of rats were collected. Using the diastolic rate as index ， the effects of different concentrations of LM 49 on endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic rings pre-contracted by norepinephrine （NE，1×10－6 mol/L）or KCl （60 mmol/L）were investigated. After pre-culturing vascular rings by nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-nitro-arginine methyl ester （L-NAME，0.1 mmol/L） and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin （1×10－5 mol/L），as well as pre-culturing vascular rings by 4 potassium channel blockers [BaCl 2（0.1 mmol/L），tetraethylammonium（TEA，5 mmol/L），4-aminopyridine（4-AP，0.1 mmol/L）and glibenclamide （1×10－5 mol/L）]，the vasorelaxant effect of different concentrations of LM 49 on the vascular rings were investigated by using the same method. With the percentage of vasoconstriction as the index ，using KCl （60 mmol/L），NE（1×10－6 mol/L），calcium channel blocker verapamil （1×10－6 mol/L）and sarcoplasmic Δ 基金项目 重大新药创制国家科技重大专项 （No.2018ZX097- reticulum Ca 2 +-adenosine triphosphate （ATP） enzyme pump inhibitor thacarotene （TG，1×10－6 mol/L）to induce the release of calcium in vascular rings in the absence of calcium. CaCl was added cumulatively ，and the effect of LM 49 on the cxyw06，vasoconstriction caused by calcium influx induced by CaCl 2 was investigated. RESULTS 3×10－6，5×10－6，1×10－5 mol/L LM49 had a significant relaxation effect on NE and KCl precontracted vascular rings （P＜0.01）； whether the endothelium was removed or not had no significant effect on the vasodilation of LM 49（P＞0.05）. After L-NAME ，indomethacin， TEA and 4-AP was pre-incubated ，different concentrations of LM 49 had no significant effects on aortic rings precontracted by NE （P＞0.05）. Glibenclamide and BaCl 2 could inhibit the vasorelaxant effects of LM 49 on aortic rings precontracted by NE （P＜0.01）. In the absence of calcium ，LM49 could inhibit the contraction caused by calcium influx induced by accumulated CaCl 2 after pre-incubation with KCl ，NE，verapamil and TG （P＜0.01）. CONCLUSIONS LM49 evokes significant relaxation of isolated aortic vascular rings without endothelium dependence ；the mechanism of which is inducing ATP-sensitive potassium channel ， inward rectifier potassium channel open and restraining extracellular Ca 2 + influx via voltage-gated calcium channel ， receptor-operated calcium channel and store-operated calcium channel.

Arteria subclavia derecha aberrante: a propósito de un caso pediátrico / Aberrant right subclavia artery: purpose of a pediatric case

Los anillos vasculares son anomalías anatómicas que ocurren durante el desarrollo embrionario del arco aórtico, sus ramas y de la arteria pulmonar. Estas estructuras vasculares pueden conducir a grados variables de sintomatología respiratoria y/o digestiva debido a la formación de un anillo completo o parcial que comprime la tráquea y/o el esófago. La arteria subclavia derecha aberrante es la anomalía más común del arco aórtico, con una incidencia reportada entre 0.5 a 2.5%. Generalmente es asintomática, sin embargo, la disfagia es el síntoma más frecuente porque en la mayoría de los casos transcurre detrás del esófago. El diagnóstico puede ser incidental en casos asintomáticos o como resultado del estudio de síntomas digestivos y/o respiratorios persistentes o recurrentes. Los pacientes sintomáticos requieren intervención quirúrgica. Describimos el caso de una paciente de 3 meses de edad con arteria subclavia derecha aberrante. El esofagograma mostró compresión extrínseca del esófago, y la angiotomografía computada confirmó el diagnóstico. La corrección quirúrgica se realizó exitosamente.

Vascular rings are anatomical abnormalities that occur during embryonic development of the aortic arch, its branches, and the pulmonary artery. These vascular structures can lead to variable degrees of respiratory and/or digestive symptoms by forming a complete or partial ring compressing the trachea and/or the esophagus. The aberrant right subclavian artery is the most common aortic arch anomaly, with reported incidence between 0.5 to 2.5%. It is generally asymptomatic; however, dysphagia is the most recognized symptom because in majority of the cases it crosses behind the esophagus. The diagnosis can be incidental when they are asymptomatic or as a result of the study of persistent or recurrent digestive and/or respiratory symptoms. Symptomatic patients require surgical intervention. We describe the case of a 3-month-old female patient with aberrant right subclavian artery. The barium esophagram showed extrinsic compression of the esophagus, and the computed tomography angiography confirmed the diagnosis. Surgical correction was successfully performed.

Potencial dendroclimático del encino rojo, Quercus sideroxyla (Fagaceae) en México / Dendroclimatic potential of red oak, Quercus sideroxyla (Fagaceae) in Mexico

Resumen Introducción: Los estudios dendrocronológicos en México se han basado principalmente en las coníferas, mientras que las especies de madera dura han sido poco estudiadas. Este ha sido el caso del género Quercus, con una alta diversidad taxonómica en el país pero que no ha sido estudiado con fines dendrocronológicos, a pesar de los valores ecológicos y económicos de sus especies. Objetivo: En la presente investigación se determinó el potencial dendroclimático de Quercus sideroxyla en el noroeste de México, y su relación con variables climáticas como precipitación y temperatura. Métodos: La investigación se desarrolló en el estado de Durango en el ejido Chavarría Viejo en las coordenadas (23º43' N & 105º33' W), se recolectaron muestras de 5 a 7 cm en dos sitios bajo aprovechamiento forestal y se procesaron mediante técnicas dendrocronológicas convencionales. Resultados: Se desarrolló una cronología de ancho de anillo total, la cual se compuso por 30 muestras de 16 árboles para el período de 1917 a 2018 (101 años). Se obtuvieron valores de intercorrelación entre series de 0.43, de sensibilidad media de 0.36, relación señal-ruido de 3.53 y autocorrelación de primer orden (0.58). En cuanto a la relación clima-crecimiento, los valores de índice de ancho de anillo se correlacionaron con datos de la estación climática más cercana al sitio de estudio; donde la precipitación invierno-primavera (enero-mayo) fue la variable de mayor influencia en el crecimiento de la especie. Conclusiones: Con base en los parámetros dendrocronológicos se demuestra el alto potencial de la especie para ser empleada en estudios dendroclimáticos en la región, la respuesta de la especie a la precipitación es similar al de las coníferas con las que cohabita.

Abstract Introduction: Dendrochronological studies in Mexico have been mainly based on conifers, while hardwood species have been little studied. This has been the case of the genus Quercus, which has a high taxonomic diversity in the country but has not been previously studied for dendrochronological issues, despite the ecological and economic values of oak species. Objective: In the present investigation, the dendroclimatic potential of Quercus sideroxyla in Northwestern Mexico was determined, as well as its relationship with climatic variables such as precipitation and temperature. Methods: The research was carried out in the state of Durango, Chavarría Viejo with coordinates (23º43' N & -105º33' W). Samples of 5 cm to 7cm were collected in two sites under forest exploitation and processed by conventional dendrochronological techniques. Results: A chronology of total ring width was developed, which was composed of 30 samples from 16 trees for the period from 1917 to 2018 (101 years). Inter-series intercorrelation values of 0.43, mean sensitivity of 0.36, signal-to-noise ratio of 3.53 and first-order autocorrelation (0.58) were obtained. Regarding the climate-growth relationship, the ring width index values were correlated with data from the climatic station nearest to the study site, where winter-spring precipitation (January-May) was the variable with the greatest influence on the growth of the species. Conclusions: Based on the dendrochronological parameters, the high potential of the species that were used in dendroclimatic studies in the region has demonstrated that the response of the species to precipitation is similar to that of the conifers with which the Quercus sideroxyla shares its habitat with.

Reconstrucción de precipitación y temperatura con anillos de crecimiento anual del ciprés Taxodium mucronatum (Taxodiaceae) en Coahuila, México / Reconstruction of precipitation and temperature with annual growth rings of the cypress Taxodium mucronatum (Taxodiaceae) in Coahuila, Mexico

Introducción: La determinación del clima en cuencas productoras de agua, como la del río Sabinas, Coahuila, donde no existe información de su variabilidad, se puede estimar mediante anillos de crecimiento de ahuehuete (Taxodium mucronatum Ten.), especie longeva con anillos bien definidos, presente en las zonas ribereñas, constituye un "proxy" o método indirecto de la variabilidad climática interanual y multianual. Objetivo: Desarrollar una reconstrucción estacional de precipitación y temperatura máxima y analizar la influencia que ejercen fenómenos de circulación global en el crecimiento de la especie. Métodos: Los núcleos de crecimiento de T. mucronatum fueron datados a través de técnicas dendrocronológicas para producir una serie de ancho de anillo. Se utilizaron datos de mallas del clima de dos bases de datos para desarrollar el análisis de la función de respuesta con fines de reconstrucción climática. Resultados: Una cronología de anillo total de 218 años (1808-2018) se desarrolló con especímenes de T. mucronatum en parajes del Río Sabinas, con la que se generó una reconstrucción estacional de precipitación abril-junio y de temperatura máxima junio-julio. El periodo detectado más seco se presentó de 1815 a 1818 con una precipitación de 27.39 mm y una temperatura máxima de 41.16 °C; mientras que el año más húmedo fue 1828 con 393.72 mm. La cronología de anillo total se correlacionó con los índices de sequía SPEI y PDSI, y con índices de fenómenos atmosféricos como El Niño Oscilación del Sur, a través del Índice de Oscilación del Sur (SOI) y el índice Multivariado (MEI); Oscilación Decadal del Pacífico (PDO) y Oscilación Multidecadal del Atlántico (AMO). La relación entre el índice de anillo total y el del Índice Estandarizado de Precipitación Evaporación (SPEI) mostró significancia en el mes de junio (r = 0.52, P < 0.01), al igual que el Índice de Severidad de Sequía del Palmer (PDSI), PDSI anual (r = 0.38, P < 0.05). El SOI reconstruido noviembre-febrero, se asoció significativamente con la serie dendrocronológica (r = -0.41, P < 0.01). La Oscilación Decadal del Pacífico y la Oscilación Multidecadal del Atlántico, no mostraron significancia. Conclusiones: En este estudio, desarrollamos una función de respuesta climática y reconstruimos variables climáticas estacionales (precipitación, temperatura máxima) de importancia para desarrollar estrategias de manejo para la conservación de T. mucronatum en esta cuenca, e implementar acciones de mitigación para la presencia de eventos climáticos extremos que se pueden presentar en los próximos años.

Introduction: Dendroclimatic reconstructions in water-yield basins lacking hydroclimatic data, such as the Rio Sabinas is important to analyze its interannual and multiannual climatic variability. One of the species useful for this purpose is the Montezuma baldcypress (Taxodium mucronatum Ten.), a long-lived species with well-defined annual rings, present along the riparian zone of the Rio Sabinas that constitutes a "proxy" of interannual and multiannual climate variability. Objective: Develop a seasonal precipitation and maximum temperature reconstructions, and to analyze the influence of global circulatory modes on the species annual radial increase. Methods: Increment cores of the Montezuma baldcypress specimens were dated through dendrochronological techniques to produce a ring-width series. Climate gridded data from two databases were used to develop a response function analysis for climate reconstruction purposes. Results: A ring-width chronology extending from 1808 to 2018 (211 years) was developed and used to develop a seasonal April-June precipitation and a mean June-July maximum temperature reconstruction. The driest period detected on the rainfall reconstruction occurred from 1815 to 1818 with 27.4 mm and a maximum temperature of 41.2 °C; while the wettest year was 1828 with 393.72 mm. The ring-width chronology was correlated with the Standardized Precipitation Evaporation Index (SPEI) and the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), and with indices of atmospheric phenomena such as El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), through the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and the Multivariate Index (MEI); Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). The relationship between the ring-width series and drought indices (SPEI, PDSI) was significant in June (r = 0.52, P < 0.01), and June-August (r = 0.38, P < 0.05) for the SPEI and reconstructed PDSI, respectively. It was found a significant association between the ring-width chronology and the reconstructed November-February SOI (r = -0.41, P < 0.01). The Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation were not significant. Conclusions: On this study, we developed a climatic response function and reconstructed seasonal climatic variables (precipitation, maximum temperature) of importance to develop management strategies for conservation of the Montezuma bald cypress on this basin, and to implement mitigation actions for the presence of extreme climatic events that may occur in coming years.

Reconstrucción histórica de la precipitación en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, México, mediante anillos de crecimiento en Taxodium mucronatum (Cupressaceae)

Introducción: El conocimiento histórico del clima es fundamental para analizar su variabilidad en el tiempo y su impacto en los ecosistemas y poblaciones humanas. Objetivo: Analizar el crecimiento anual de los árboles de sabino, también conocido como ahuehuete (Taxodium mucronatum) del río Sabinas para reconstruir la variabilidad de precipitación histórica en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, Tamaulipas, México. Métodos: Se fecharon los crecimientos anuales de 116 muestras de sabino, a partir de las cuales se desarrolló una cronología de 544 años (1474-2017). El periodo que sustentó un número de muestras adecuado para el análisis climático se extiende de 1550 a 2017 (468 años). Resultados: Con base en el análisis de función respuesta se determinó que la precipitación de invierno-primavera (noviembre-mayo) influyó de manera significativa en el crecimiento de los sabinos en el área de estudio (r= 0.77, P < 0.001). La reconstrucción registró una variabilidad climática alta a nivel interanual y entre décadas, en la cual, se identificó la presencia de sequías a principios y finales de cada siglo, así como la presencia de sequías extremas cíclicas cada 50 años. Estas sequías destacaron por su impacto social y económico a nivel nacional y regional. Las sequías más importantes son el "Año Uno Conejo" de acuerdo con el calendario Azteca, en 1558; la sequía de1696 con un impacto fuerte en el noreste de México; "El Año del Hambre" en 1785-1786, en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo desde 1784; la sequía de 1801 que trajo consigo la escasez de alimentos; la de 1951 dentro del periodo de "Migración masiva del sector rural"; y la sequía más reciente, registrada en 2011. Las lluvias extremas más representativas sucedieron en 1756 y 1816. Conclusiones: De seguir el patrón de precipitación registrado en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, es posible esperar la presencia de sequías extremas a mediados y finales del siglo XXI.

Introduction: Historical knowledge of climate is essential to analyze its variability over time, as well as its impact on natural ecosystems and human populations. Objective: To analyze the annual growth of the sabino trees, also known as ahuehuete trees (Taxodium mucronatum) from the Sabinas River to reconstruct the historical variability of precipitation in El Cielo Biosphere Reserve, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Methods: The annual growth of 116 sabino samples was dated to develop a chronology of 544 years (1474-2017). The period that admitted a series of samples suitable for climate analysis extends from 1550 to 2017 (468 years). Results: Based on the analysis of the response function, it was determined that the winter-spring precipitation (November-May) significantly influenced the radial growth of sabinos in the study area (R= 0.77, P < 0.001). The reconstruction recorded high climatic variability at interannual and interdecadal levels, in which the presence of droughts was identified at the beginning and end of each century, as well as the presence of extreme cyclical droughts every 50 years. These droughts stood out for their social and economic impact at the regional and national level. The most important droughts are the "Año Uno Conejo" ("Year One Rabbit") according to the Aztec calendar in 1558. In 1696 with a strong impact in Northern Mexico. "El Año del Hambre" ("The Year of Hunger") in 1785-1786. Also, the drought of 1801 that brought alongside food shortages. 1951 within the period of "Mass migration of the rural sector"; and the most recent drought, recorded in 2011. The most representative extreme rainfalls occurred in 1756 and 1816. Conclusions: If the precipitation pattern registered at El Cielo Biosphere Reserve continues, it is possible to expect the presence of extreme droughts in the mid and late 21st century.

Amniotic band syndrome: a case series

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) is a rare congenital disorder which involves fetal entrapment in strands of amniotic tissue, which can manifest as constriction rings, limb and digital amputations or complex congenital anomalies and sometimes results in stillbirth. Etiopathogenesis is varied and ABS can be associated with syndromes. Antenatal diagnosis is made by ultrasonography in most cases. Postnatal examination reveals constrictions, amputations and craniofacial or abdominal wall defects. Treatment is case based and surgical intervention is required to release constriction rings. Authors report here six cases (one stillbirth and five live births) of amniotic band syndrome that were encountered over the last one and half years.

"A professora de piano" e a questão da perversão / "the piano teacher" and the question of perversion

ABSTRACT: This article aims to demonstrate how perversion, as a subject, activates investigation. As a starting point, it explores Freud's idea surrounding fetishism as a paradigm of itself; a necessary interval between neurosis and psychosis. This analysis is followed by a presentation of various notions developed by Lacan in his teachings. Subsequently, the article analyzes Haneke's 2001 film "The piano teacher", here considered as a case of substitute perversion that adds to the few documented cases of this nature. The movie contributes elements that allow to think about and further develop the notion of substitute perversion in psychosis. In it, "the teacher" demonstrates the separation between love, desire, juissance and what Lacan calls "false hole" through borromean rings. Lastly, questions are posed regarding perversion; organized by answers, opposite the two aforementioned structures.

Resumo: O artigo ocupa-se de mostrar como a perversão é uma temática que ativa a pesquisa. Explora, inicialmente, a ideia de Freud sobre o fetichismo como paradigma desse operador clínico, intervalo necessário entre a neurose e a psicose. Depois apresenta noções formuladas por Lacan em seus ensinamentos. Examina, posteriormente, o filme A professora de piano, de Haneke (2001), considerando-o material que contribui diante da escassez de casos sobre perversão. Encontra no filme elementos para pensar e indagar a suplência perversa na psicose. A professora ensina a propósito da amarração do nó borromeano entre amor, desejo, gozo e do estabelecimento do que Lacan chama: "falso furo". O artigo, finalmente, formula questões sobre essa estrutura clínica que, diferentemente das outras duas, se organiza não em certezas, mas adiantando respostas.

Impacto del uso de anillos y uñas esmaltadas en la calidad de la higiene de manos en el personal de salud / Impact of the use of rings and nail polish on hand hygiene quality in healthcare workers

Resumen Introducción: Las infecciones asociadas a la atención de salud son un problema frecuente en el ambiente hospitalario. La higiene de manos es la medida más efectiva para su prevención. El uso de ciertos accesorios en las manos podría disminuir su efectividad y favorecer la transmisión horizontal de agentes infecciosos. Objetivo: Revisar los estudios publicados que evalúan el impacto del uso de anillos y uñas esmaltadas en la calidad de la higiene de manos en trabajadores de la salud. Métodos: Búsqueda no sistemática en base de datos PUBMED/MEDLINE (1978-2018) de estudios en los cuales se mide la calidad de la higiene de manos o lavado quirúrgico, mediante cultivos cuantitativos o tinciones fluorescentes. Resultados: Uso de anillos: Trece de 51 artículos cumplían los criterios de inclusión. Siete fueron realizados en unidades clínicas, y en todos ellos éste se asoció a menor calidad de la higiene de manos (la mayoría de baja calidad). Contrariamente, en tres de cuatro estudios primarios realizados en pabellón (de baja calidad), su uso no impactó en la calidad del lavado quirúrgico. Igualmente, dos revisiones sistemáticas obtuvieron similares conclusiones. Uñas esmaltadas: siete de 54 artículos fueron incluidos. En cuatro hubo resultados discordantes (la mayoría de baja calidad). En un estudio controlado se observó reducción en la calidad del lavado quirúrgico sólo cuando el esmalte estaba dañado. El esmalte gel se asoció a menor calidad de la higiene de manos en dos estudios experimentales. Conclusiones: No existe evidencia de calidad suficiente para asociar el uso de estos accesorios con reducción en la calidad de la higiene de manos. Tampoco queda demostrada su inocuidad. En base a la evidencia disponible (la mayoría de baja calidad), se observó un impacto negativo del uso de anillos en unidades clínicas y también de uñas con esmalte dañado en pabellones quirúrgicos. Se requieren estudios de mejor calidad para abordar estos relevantes tópicos.

Abstract Background: Health-care-associated infections are a frequent problem in hospital environments. Hand hygiene is the most effective measure to prevent outbreaks. The use of certain accessories could decrease its effectiveness, facilitating horizontal transmission of pathogens. Objective: Analyze the evidence that assess the impact of the use of rings and nail polish on hand hygiene quality in healthcare workers. Methods: Non-systematic search in PUBMED/MEDLINE database (1978-2018) of studies in which the quality of hand hygiene or surgical washing is measured, using quantitative cultures or fluorescent stains. Results: Wearing rings: 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven were carried out in general wards. In all of them the use of rings was associated with lower quality of hand hygiene (the majority of low quality). Contrarily, in 3 of 4 primary studies carried out in the operating rooms (of low quality), their use did not affect the quality of surgical washing. Similarly, two systematic reviews obtained similar conclusions. Nail polish: 7 of 54 studies met the inclusion criteria. In four of them there were discordant results (the majority of low quality). One RCT showed a reduction in the quality of surgical washing only when the nail polish was damaged. Gel nail polish was associated with lower quality in two experimental studies. Conclusions: There is insufficient evidence to associate the use of these accessories with the reduction in the quality of hand hygiene. Its safety was not proven neither. Based on the available evidence (the majority of low quality), a negative impact of the use of rings in clinical units and also of damaged nail polish in operating rooms was observed. Better quality studies are required to address these relevant issues.

Mechanisms underlying the vascular relaxation activities of Zingiber officinale var. rubrum in thoracic aorta of spontaneously hypertensive rats / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate vasorelaxant and vasoconstriction effects of Zingiber officinale var. rubrum (ZOVR) on live rats and isolated aortic rings of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).@*METHODS@#Extracts of ZOVR were subjected to in-vivo antihypertensive screening using noninvasive blood pressures in SHRs. The most potent extract, ZOVR petroleum ether extract (ZOP) was then fractionated using n-hexane, chloroform and water. Isolated thoracic aortic rings were harvested and subjected to vascular relaxation studies of n-hexane fraction of ZOP (HFZOP) with incubation of different antagonists such as N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 µmol/L), indomethacin (10 µmol/L), methylene blue (10 µmol/L), atropine (1 µmol/L), glibenclamide (10 µmol/L), prazosin (0.01 µmol/L), and propranolol (1 µmol/L).@*RESULTS@#During the screening of various ZOVR extracts, ZOP produced the most reduction in blood pressures of SHRs and so did HFZOP. HFZOP significantly decreased phenylephrine-induced contraction and enhanced acetylcholine-induced relaxation. L-NAME, indomethacin, methylene blue, atropine, and glibenclamide significantly potentiated the vasorelaxant effects of HFZOP. Propranolol and prazosin did not alter the vasorelaxant effects of HFZOP. HFZOP significantly suppressed the Ca-dependent contraction and influenced the ratio of the responses to phenylephrine in Ca-free medium.@*CONCLUSION@#This study demonstrates that ZOP may exert an antihypertensive effect in the SHR model. Its possible vascular relaxation mechanisms involve nitric oxide and prostacyclin release, activation of cGMP-K channels, stimulation of muscarinic receptors, and transmembrane calcium channel or Ca release from intracellular stores. Possible active compounds that contribute to the vasorelaxant effects are 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol and 6-shogaol.

Vascular mechanisms of monodesmosidic triterpene saponins isolated from Passiflora quadrangularis L / Mecanismos vasculares de saponinas triterpénicas monodesmosídicas aisladas de Passiflora quadrangularis L

Background: Passiflora quadrangularis L. has antihypertensive and anxiolytic properties observed in experimental models. Objectives: The aim of this work was to establish the vascular effects exerted by two known monodesmosidic triterpene saponins, 3-O-ß-D-glucopyranosyloleanolic acid (Compound 1) (not previously described for this plant) and, 3-O-[ß-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-ß-D-glucopyranosyl] oleanolic acid (Compound 2), isolated from the ethanolic extract of Passiflora quadrangularis L. leaves. Methods: The structural elucidation was achieved by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) experiments and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS). Aortic rings from Wistar rats, previously stimulated with phenylephrine (PE, 1µM) and washed, were exposed to cumulatively concentrations of compound 1 and compound 2 (10 to 400 µM). Ethanolic extract from leaves of P. quadrangularis L. (10 to 320 µg/ mL) and clonidine (1nM to 100µM) were also used for comparison. Concentration response curves of compounds 1 and 2 were examined in presence and absence of: endothelium, the alpha-2 antagonist yohimbine (1 and 100 µM), the alpha non selective antagonist phentolamine (1µM), the alpha-1 antagonist prazosin (1µM) and the calcium channel blocker verapamil (10 and 100 µM). In addition, cumulatively response curve of acetylcholine (ACh, 10nM to 10µM) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 1nM to 100µM) were assayed in rings precontracted with compounds 1 and 2 (400 µM). Results: Compounds 1 and 2 elicited a vasoconstriction response in intact aorta rings in similar way (pEC50: 3.92±0.01 and 4.09±0.01, respectively), effect that did not change in denuded rings (pEC50: 3.90±0.01 and 4.11±0.01). The potency order (pEC50) of compounds 1 and 2 decreased according to the following: verapamil (3.53±0.01 and 3.90±0.02; p<0.05) < yohimbine (3.65±0.01 and 3.94±0.02; p<0.05) < prazosin (3.86±0.01 and 4.30±0.02) < phentolamine (4.05±0.02 and 4.05±0.01). SNP but not ACh, was able to decrease the vasopressor effect of compounds 1 and 2 (pIC50: 8.61±0.01 and 8.24 ± 0.15, respectively). Conclusions: Compounds 1 and 2 are key metabolites responsible for the ex vivo vasoconstrictor response induced by P. quadrangularis L. Activation of voltage-dependent calcium channels and/or α2-adrenergic receptors stimulation could be mechanisms implicated.

Antecedentes: Passiflora quadrangularis L. tiene propiedades antihipertensivas y ansiolíticas observadas en modelos animales. Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo fue establecer los efectos vasculares ejercidos por dos conocidas saponinas triterpénicas monodesmosídicas: el ácido 3-O-ß-D glucopiranosiloleanólico (Compuesto 1) (no descrito previamente para esta especie vegetal) y el ácido 3-O-[ß-D-glucopiranosil- (1→2)-ß-D-glucopiranosil]oleanólico (Compuesto 2), aisladas del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Passiflora quadrangularis L. Métodos: La elucidación estructural se llevó a cabo mediante experimentos de Resonancia Magnética Nuclear (NMR) y determinaciones de Espectrometría de Masas de Alta Resolución (HRMS). Los anillos aórticos de ratas Wistar, previamente estimulados con fenilefrina (PE, 1 µM) y lavados, fueron expuestos a concentraciones acumulativas del compuesto 1 y compuesto 2 (10 a 400 µM). El extracto etanólico de las hojas de P. quadrangularis L. (10 a 320 µg / ml) y clonidina (1 nM a 100 µM) se utilizaron para la comparación. Las curvas de concentración respuesta de los compuestos 1 y 2 se examinaron en presencia y ausencia de: endotelio, el antagonista alfa-2 yohimbina (1 y 100 µM), el antagonista alfa no selectivo fentolamina (1 µM), el antagonista alfa-1 prazosina (1 µM) y el bloqueador de canales de calcio verapamilo (10 y 100 µM). Además, la curva de concentraciones acumulativas de acetilcolina (ACh, 10 nM a 10 µM) y nitroprusiato de sodio (SNP, 1 nM a 100 µM) se ensayó en anillos pre-contraídos con los compuestos 1 y 2 (400 µM). Resultados: Los compuestos 1 y 2 provocaron una respuesta de vasoconstricción en los anillos de aorta intactos de manera similar (pEC50: 3.92 ± 0.01 y 4.09 ± 0.01, respectivamente), este efecto no cambió en los anillos denudados (pEC50: 3.90 ± 0.01 y 4.11 ± 0.01). El orden de potencia (pEC50) de los compuestos 1 y 2 disminuyó de la siguiente manera: verapamilo (3.53 ± 0.01 y 3.90 ± 0.02; p <0.05) < yohimbina (3.65 ± 0.01 y 3.94 ± 0.02; p <0.05) < prazosina (3.86 ± 0.01 y 4.30 ± 0.02)

Potential quality evaluation approach for the absolute growth years' wild and transplanted Astragali Radix based on anti-heart failure efficacy / 中国天然药物

The quality of Astragali Radix (AR) was closely related to the growth period. However, the current commodity grades of AR were only divided by diameter but not directly related to the growth period, which leads to the contradiction between the grade standard and the quality evaluation index. Therefore, solving this problem will be the key for the quality evaluation of AR. The present study established a potential quality evaluation approach for the absolute growth years' wild Astragali Radix (WAR) and transplanted Astragali Radix (TAR) based on the chemical components and anti-heart failure efficacy through adopting a bare-handed sections approach to rapidly identify the growth years of WAR. In this study, the absolute growth years of WAR were obtained by identifying the growth rings of 1-6 growth years root through the methods. The contents of flavonoids and saponins in 2-6 growth years' WAR were determined by HPLC-UV-ELSD. The contents of 12 chemical components and the anti-fatigue failure effects of WAR (4-year-old) and TAR were compared on rat models of heart failure induced by doxorubicin. Meanwhile, NMR-based untargeted metabolomics studies were performed to investigate the regulative effects of WAR and TAR. The result shows that the numbers of growth rings were consistent with the actual growth periods of AR. The HPLC-UV-ELSD determination indicated that the content of total flavonoids in WAR was significantly higher than that in TAR. Pharmacodynamics analysis revealed that the effects of WAR on cardiac function parameters (EF, FS and LVIDs), contents of serum CK and BNP were superior to those of TAR. 13 metabolites of heart were identified that had a higher rate of change in WAR group than TAR. Overall, a rapid identification method for the growth years of WAR was established, and the fact that WAR were significantly better than TAR in the heart failure rats was first proved in the paper. This study provided a scientific basis for establishing a novel commodity specification and grade of AR for clinical rational drug use.

Anillos vasculares: Serie de 28 pacientes atendidos en un Servicio de Endoscopía Respiratoria Pediátrica / Vascular rings: Series of 28 patients of a Pediatrie Respiratory Endoscopy Department

Los anillos vasculares tienen una incidencia del 1 % entre las enfermedades cardiovasculares congénitas. Constituyen una malformación embriológica en la que el arco aórtico, sus ramas o las arterias pulmonares provocan presión sobre la tráquea y/o el esófago. Anatómicamente, se dividen en dos grupos, dependiendo de cómo rodean la tráquea y el esófago: completo o incompleto. La sintomatología suele iniciarse en los primeros meses de vida con estridor bifásico o espiratorio que aumenta con el llanto y la alimentación, tos traqueal de tonalidad metálica, infecciones respiratorias recurrentes, episodios de apnea refleja y cianosis, sibilancias, hiperextensión cervical, retracción esternal e intercostal, y dificultad en la alimentación. Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de 28 pacientes con diagnóstico de anillo vascular que concurrieron a la consulta en el Servicio de Endoscopía Respiratoria del Hospital Garrahan entre enero de 2015 y septiembre de 2017.

Vascular rings account for 1 % of the congenital cardiovascular diseases. They constitute an embryological malformation in which the aortic arch, its branches, or the pulmonary arteries cause pressure on the trachea and/or oesophagus. Anatomically, they are divided into two groups -complete or incomplete- depending on how they surround the trachea and/or the oesophagus. Symptom onset is usually in the first months of life with biphasic or expiratory stridor that increases with crying and feeding, a metallic tracheal cough, recurrent respiratory infections, episodes of apnea and cyanosis, wheezing, cervical hyperextension, sternal and intercostal retraction, and feeding difficulties. A retrospective analysis of 28 patients with vascular rings seen at the Department of Respiratory Endoscopy at Garrahan Paediatric Hospital between January 2015 and September 2017 is presented.

Study on Vasodilatory Effect of Oxysophocarpine on Isolated Thoracic Aortic Rings of Rats and Its Mechanism / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE： To study the vasodilatory effect of oxysophocarpine （OSC） on isolated thoracic aortic rings of rats and its possible mechanism. METHODS： Thoracic aortic rings of rats were collected （called “vascular ring” for short）. Using K-H nutrient solution as blank control and the diastolic rate as index， the effects of different concentrations （0.2-1.0 mg/mL） of OSC on normal vascular rings in basal state， normal or endothelium-free vascular rings pre-contracted by norepinephrine （PE， 1×10－6 mol/L） were investigated. After pre-culturing normal thoracic aortic rings by nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-nitro-arginine methyl ester（L-NAME）and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin（INDO），as well as pre-culturing endothelium-free vascular rings by potassium ion channel blocker BaCl2，tetraethylammonium（TEA）and 4-aminopyridine（4-AP）， the diastolic effects of OSC of different concentrations （0.2-1.0 mg/mL） on the above vascular rings were investigated by using the same method. RESULTS： Compared with blank control， there was no significant effects of different concentrations of OSC on the diastolic rate of normal vascular rings in basal state （P＞0.05）， but 0.4-1.0 mg/mL OSC could significantly improve the diastolic rate of normal or endothelium-free vascular rings pre-contracted by PE （P＜0.01）， in concentration-dependent manner. After preculturing with L-NAME， INDO， 4-AP and BaCl2， different concentrations of OSC had no significant effect on the diastolic rate of normal or endothelium-free vascular rings pre-contracted by PE （P＞0.05）. After pre-culturing with TEA and Gli， 0.4-1.0 mg/mL OSC could significantly reduce the diastolic rate of endothelium-free vas- cular rings pre-contracted by PE （P＜0.01）. CONCLUSIONS： OSC did not significantly dilate the thoracic aortic rings of rats in the basal state within the dose range （0.2-1.0 mg/mL）， but OSC of 0.4-1.0 mg/mL have significant diastolic effects on the normal or endothelium-free thoracic aortic rings of rats pre-contracted with PE. The mechanism of thoracic aortic rings dilation is endothelium-independent， which may be associated with receptor operational calcium channel，Ca2+-activated potassium channels and ATP-sensitive potassium channels.

Respuesta del crecimiento de Pinus oocarpa a variables climáticas en Chiapas, México / Growth response of Pinus oocarpa to climatic variables in Chiapas, Mexico

Resumen Los estudios dendrocronológicos se utilizan para reconstruir algunas variables climáticas; en México, estos estudios se han centrado en los bosques templados del centro y del norte, donde los árboles presentan anillos anuales bien definidos. Pocos estudios se han llevado a cabo en la parte sur del país, donde el crecimiento anual del anillo no se identifica fácilmente y, por lo tanto, esto hace que la datación se dificulte. Se analizó el potencial dendrocronológico de Pinus oocarpa para la reconstrucción de variables climáticas en la porción noroeste de Lagunas de Montebello, Chiapas. Empleando un muestreo selectivo se recolectaron 65 núcleos de incremento de 34 árboles. Aunque las muestras presentaron una alta frecuencia de anillos falsos (8 a 60 %), se logró fechar 30 muestras de 22 árboles (46 %) mediante técnicas dendrocronológicas estándar y el desarrollo de cronologías de anillo total, madera temprana y madera tardía para un período de 91 años (1925-2015). Se encontró una influencia significativa de la precipitación media y de la temperatura media máxima y mínima del período 1961-2004 sobre el crecimiento anual de P. oocarpa. Los resultados muestran que la precipitación inviernoprimavera (enero-mayo) fue la más importante para el crecimiento del anillo anual de la especie. Sin embargo, la correlación más alta se observó entre la precipitación de primavera (marzo-mayo) y la cronología de la madera temprana (r = 0.719, P < 0.05). La cronología de la madera temprana también mostró potencial para reconstruir la temperatura mínima (marzo a mayo) (r = 0.732, P < 0.05), mientras que la cronología de madera tardía registra potencial para reconstruir la temperatura máxima (septiembreenero) (r = 0.714, P < 0.05). Estos resultados muestran que P. oocarpa puede emplearse para reconstruir variables climáticas en los trópicos mexicanos. Se recomienda explorar nuevas áreas con árboles más viejos a fin de aumentar la extensión de las cronologías y reconstruir los registros climáticos varios siglos en el pasado.(AU)

Abstract Dendrochronological studies are used to reconstruct some climatic variables; in México these studies have focused on central and Northern temperate forests where trees present well defined annual rings. Few studies have been carried out in the Southern part of the country where annual ring growth is not easily identified and thus makes cross-dating problematic. We analyzed the dendrochronological potential of Pinus oocarpa Schiede for reconstructing climatic variables in the Northwest portion of Lagunas de Montebello, Chiapas. We used a selective sampling approach and collected 65 increment cores from 34 trees. While our samples showed a high frequency of false rings (8 to 60 %), we were able to date 30 samples from 22 trees (46 %) using standard dendrochronological techniques and developed total chronologies for total ring width, earlywood, and latewood for a period of 91 years (1925-2015). We found a significant influence of mean precipitation and mean maximum and minimum temperature over the annual ring growth of P. oocarpa in the period 1961-2004. Our results show that winter-spring precipitation (January-May) was the most important for the species' annual ring growth. However, we found the highest correlation between spring (March-May) precipitation and the earlywood chronology (r = 0.719, P < 0.05). The earlywood chronology also showed potential for reconstructing minimum temperatures (March to May) (r = 0.732, P < 0.05), while the latewood chronology had the potential for reconstructing the maximum temperature (September to January) (r = 0.714, P < 0.05). These results showed that P. oocarpa can be used to reconstruct climatic variables in the Mexican tropics. We recommend that new areas with older trees should be explored in order to increase the depth of chronologies and reconstruct climate records several centuries into the past.(AU)

Dendroecology of Macrolobium acaciifolium (Fabaceae) in Central Amazonian floodplain forests / Dendroecologia de Macrolobium acaciifolium (Fabaceae) em florestas alagáveis da Amazônia central

The forest dynamics in the Amazonian floodplains is strongly triggered by the flood pulse. Trees respond to unfavorable growth conditions during the flood period by cambial dormancy, which results in the formation of annual growth rings. We determined tree age and compared the mean annual rates of increase in the diameter of Macrolobium acaciifolium with hydrological and climatic factors in three regions of central Amazonian floodplain forest. A wood sample was obtained from each tree using an increment borer. Ring growth was assessed by marginal parenchyma bands to determine tree age and the mean diameter increment. Ring widths were indexed to construct cross-dating chronologies and correlated with climatic and hydrological variables. The analyses demonstrate that the mean annual diameter increment did not differ between the three study sites. The chronologies correlated significantly with the terrestrial phase. There was no significant difference in the ring-width index between El Niño years and other years, and between La Niña and other years. These results show that the hydrological variables can be considered crucial to the rates of tree growth and diameter increment in floodplains, and El Niño signals were not detected in the tree-ring chronologies.

A dinâmica das florestas alagáveis da Amazônia é fortemente influenciada pelo pulso anual de inundação. As árvores respondem às condições de crescimento desfavoráveis durante o período de inundação através da dormência cambial, resultando na formação de anéis de crescimento anuais. Neste estudo, determinamos a idade das árvores e comparamos as taxas anuais médias de incremento em diâmetro de Macrolobium acaciifolium com fatores hidrológicos e climáticos em três regiões de florestas alagáveis na Amazônia central. Para cada árvore, uma amostra de madeira foi obtida usando uma broca dendrocronológica. O crescimento do anel foi avaliado por bandas de parênquima marginal, para determinar a idade da árvore e o incremento médio em diâmetro. As séries de anéis foram indexadas, para construir cronologias, e correlacionadas com variáveis climáticas e hidrológicas. Nossas análises demonstraram que o incremento anual médio em diâmetro não diferiu entre os três locais de estudo. As cronologias correlacionaram-se significativamente com a fase terrestre. Não houve diferença significativa no índice de largura dos anéis entre os anos de El Niño e outros anos, e entre os anos de La Niña e outros anos. Estes resultados mostraram que as variáveis hidrológicas podem ser consideradas cruciais para as taxas de crescimento e de incremento em diâmetro das árvores em florestas alagáveis, e que não foram detectados sinais de El Niño nas cronologias das árvores analisadas.

Clinical characteristics and treatment of congenital vascular rings in 54 infants / 中华胸心血管外科杂志

Objective To summarize the clinical characteristics and therapeutic effect of congenital vascular rings in in-fants. Methods The clinical data of 54 children with vascular rings were retrospectively analyzed from August 2011 to June 2017 at our center for surgical treatment. Age 2 days to 11 months,the median age was 1 months;weight 1. 4 - 9. 4 kg,the average weight of(4. 52 ± 1. 89)kg. The type of vascular ring includes 21 cases of double aortic arch,right aortic arch with left aortic duct / ligament with or without vagal left subclavian artery in 14 cases,9 cases of pulmonary artery suture,left aortic arch with right aortic duct / ligament with or without 5 cases of oblique right subclavian artery,3 cases of nameless arterial com-pression syndrome,2 cases of other vascular rings. All cases underwent echocardiography,chest radiography,and CT scan of the heart,and 42 cases were examined before operation or intraoperative bronchoscopy. 39 cases(72％)had tracheal stenosis. Results Twenty-six patients underwent extracorporeal circulation underwent vascular anteroposterior surgery with an average extracorporeal circulation time of( 160 ± 61)min and 28 patients underwent extracorporeal circulation. Postoperative mechani-cal ventilation 1 to 22 days,the median number of days 2 days;hospitalization time 7 to 62 days,the median of 19 days,hos-pital death in 2 cases(3. 7％). Discharge patients were followed up for 2 to 74 months,respiratory symptoms to varying degrees to ease or disappear,discharged in 3 cases. Conclusion Airway stenosis is a serious complication of the vascular ring. CT is the best way to determine the vascular ring. To avoid serious airway complications,the vascular ring should be operated as soon as possible,and the airway stenosis and intracardiac malformation Children suggested concurrent treatment,this can improve the survival rate of surgery and improve the prognosis of children.

The protective effects of Astragaloside Ⅳ on diastolic function of rat thoracic aortic rings impaired by microvesicles / 中国应用生理学杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To investigate the effects of Astragaloside IV (AST) on diastolic function of rat thoracic aorta rings which was injured by microvesicles derived from hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and the mechanism of AST.@*METHODS@#H/R-induced endothelial microvesicles (H/R-EMVs) were generated from cultured HUVECs under the condition of hypoxia for 12 hour/Reoxygenation for 4 hour, H/R-EMVs were stored in D-Hank's solution. Male Wistar rats were underwent thoracotomy, the thoracic aorta with intact endothelium were carefully removed and cut into 3~4 mm rings. The experiment was divided into six groups. H/R-EMVs group:thoracic aortic rings of rats were incubated in culture medium and treated with H/R-EMVs in a final concentration of 10g/ml; different doses of AST groups:thoracic aortic rings of rats were treated with 10, 20, 40, 60 mg/L AST co-incubated with 10g/ml H/R-EMVs respectively; control group were treated with the same volume of D-Hank's solution. Duration of incubation was 4 h, each group was tested in five replicate aortic rings. Effects of AST on endothelium-dependent relaxation were detected. The production of nitric oxide (NO) and the level of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS, Ser-1177), serine/threonine kinase (Akt), phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt, Ser-473), extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2) and phosphorylated ERK1/2 (p-ERK1/2, Thr202/Tyr204) of rat thoracic aortic rings were detected.@*RESULTS@#Teng/ml H/R-EMVs could impaire the relaxation of rat thoracic aortic rings significantly (<0.01). Compared with H/R-EMVs group, relaxation of rat thoracic aortic rings was increased by 20, 40 and 60 mg/L AST in a concentration-dependent manner (<0.01), the level of NO production was also enhanced (<0.05, <0.01). The level of t-eNOS, t-Akt and ERK1/2 was not changed, but the level of p-eNOS, p-Akt and p-ERK1/2 increased by the treatment with AST (<0.01).@*CONCLUSIONS@#AST could effectively ameliorate endotheliumdependent relaxation of rat thoracic aortic rings impaired by H/R-EMVs in a concentration-dependent manner, the mechanism might involve the increase in production of NO, and the protein level of p-eNOS, p-Akt and p-ERK1/2.

Clinical analysis of 16 cases with congenital complete tracheal ring in children / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective To assess the clinical characteristics of children with congenital complete tracheal ring (CCTR). Methods A retrospective analysis of pediatric patients was performed,who were diagnosed with CCTR at the Department of Pediatrics,West China Second University Hospital,Sichuan University between January 2014 to June 2017. The clinical manifestations,imaging features and treatment strategies were evaluated. Results A total of 16 pa-tients were included in this study. The mean age of was 11. 01 months and the mean Z score of weight-for age was- 0. 52. The main clinical manifestations were recurrent wheezing (9 cases),stridor (7 cases),tracheal intubation di-fficulty (1 case),and weaning difficulties (1 case). A total of 9 patients were complicated with cardiovascular malfor-mations. The location of CCTR was in trachea (12 cases),in bronchus (4 cases),and in both the trachea and bronchus (4 cases). Ten cases were complicated with other respiratory abnormalities,including laryngomalacia and tracheomala-cia. Three patients were just isolated CCTR. All the patients were discharged from hospital with an average 10. 75 days of hospital stays. A total of 62. 5％ of these children were misdiagnosed as asthma or laryngeal laryngomalacia. Conclusions The main clinical manifestations are recurrent wheezing and/ or stridor in children with CCTR. They are always complicated with bronchial,pulmonary and cardiovascular malformations. CCTR has an adverse effect on the growth of children. Children with CCTR have a high risk of recurrent lower respiratory tract infection. Bronchoscopy should be performed in children with recurrent wheezing or stridor to determine whether CCTR exists.

Morphological, microscopic, multiple-component assay and fingerprinting based systematic research on quality evaluation of Moutan Cortex(Paeonia suffruticosa) / 中国中药杂志

The purpose of this study was to combine morphological, microscopic, UHPLC multiple-component assay and fingerprinting studies in order to evaluate the quality of Moutan Cortex (MC) systematically. The root system of Paeonia suffruticosa was measured to compare the morphological variation and the chemical composition of different grades of MC was discussed according to previous studies. The difference between the main microscopic features of MC powder and the xylem powder is dramatic, the MC powder contains great amount of starch granules and clusters of calcium oxalate, while the xylem powder displays considerable vessels. Interestingly, the growth rings of P. suffruticosa was first reported in the xylem of the root transection, this can help to determine the growth years of the plant. Moreover, through the assay of 16 component, MC produced in Tongling and Bozhou in Anhui province were compared, content of PGG in MC produced in Bozhou was significantly higher than MC produced in Tongling (<0.01). MC with different growth years, MC with xylem and unprocessed MC and MC decoction pieces were compared respectively by combining the results of 16 compounds assay and fingerprinting. It is proposed that the quality evaluation standard include the assay of paeoniflorin. Above all, the holistic quality difference can be evaluated more comprehensively by combining multiple analytical methods.