Comparing IOLM700 TK, Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix calculator and Barrett Rx formula in managing residual astigmatism due to toric intraocular lens misalignment

Purpose: To compare the accuracy in astigmatism reduction by using IOLM 700 steep total keratometry (TK) axis, Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix, and Barrett Rx formula following misaligned toric intraocular lens (IOL). Methods: Ten patients with residual refractive astigmatism due to misalignment following toric IOL implantation were included in this retrospective study. They were analyzed at days 4, 7/8, and 10/11 following primary cataract surgery on the platform of Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix, Barrett Rx formula, and IOLM 700 to determine the optimum axis of repositioning, and underwent IOL realignment on the steep TK axis of IOLM 700 assisted by the Callisto eye. The final outcome parameters were subjective refraction and orientation of toric IOL assessed 22 ± 1 days following repositioning surgery. These parameters were fed in the Barrett Rx formula and its vector analysis graph was utilized to determine the predicted ideal axis with the least residual astigmatism and the estimated residual astigmatism if the toric IOL was realigned according to the axis suggested by Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and Barrett Rx formula. Results: Realigning the toric IOL on IOLM 700 steep TK axis along with the Callisto eye reduces the residual refractive astigmatism significantly (P = 0.003) from 2.00 ± 0.78 D to 0.18 ± 0.12 D (90.5 ± 7.6%) in comparison to the estimated 0.57 ± 0.31 D (68.4 ± 21.9%) by Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and 0.61 ± 0.33 D (66.4 ± 23.5%) by Barrett Rx formula. Conclusion: Realigning the misaligned toric IOL on the IOLM 700 steep TK axis gives a better reduction in the residual refractive astigmatism in comparison to Berdahl and Hardten astigmatism fix and Barrett Rx formula

Preoperative computed tomography angiography in multidisciplinary personalized assessment of patient with right-sided colon cancer: surgeon and radiologist point of view / Angiografia por tomografia computadorizada pré-operatória na avaliação personalizada multidisciplinar de paciente com câncer de cólon direito: visão do cirurgião e do radiologista

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: 3D-CT angiography has made it possible to reach a qualitatively new level in the determination of treatment tactics for patients with colorectal cancer. AIMS: This study aimed to analyze the clinical and radiological aspects that need to be discussed before surgery by a multidisciplinary team in patients with right-sided colon cancer. METHODS This study involved 103 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent preoperative 3D-CT angiography from 2016 to 2021 RESULTS: All patients underwent radical D3 right hemicolectomy. The median quantity of removal lymph nodes were 24.71±10.04. Anastomotic leakage was diagnosed in one patient. We have identified eight most common types of superior mesenteric artery. The ileocolic artery crossed the superior mesenteric vein on the anterior surface in 64 (62.1%) patients and on the posterior surface in 39 (37.9%). In 58 (56.3%) patients, the right colic artery was either absent or was a nonindependent branch of superior mesenteric artery. The distance from the root of the superior mesenteric artery to the root of the middle colic artery was 37.8±12.8 mm and that from the root of the middle colic artery to the root of the ileocolic artery was 29.5±15.7 mm. The trunk of Henle was above the root of the middle colic artery in 66 (64.1%) patients, at the same level with the middle colic artery in 16 (15.5%), and below the middle colic artery in 18 (17.5%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative analysis of 3D-CT angiography is a key pattern in assessment of vascular anatomy and can potentially show the complexity of future lymphadenectomy and reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A angiografia 3D-TC permitiu alcançar um nível qualitativamente novo na determinação de táticas de tratamento para pacientes com câncer colorretal. OBJETIVO: Analisar os aspectos clínicos e radiológicos que precisam ser discutidos antes da cirurgia por uma equipe multidisciplinar em pacientes com câncer de cólon direito. MÉTODOS: Analisar 103 pacientes com câncer colorretal submetidos à angiotomografia 3D pré-operatória entre 2016 e 2021. RESULTADOS: Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à hemicolectomia direita radical D3. A quantidade mediana de linfonodos removidos foi de 24,71±10,04. Deiscência de anastomose foi diagnosticada em 1 paciente. Identificamos 8 tipos mais comuns de artéria mesentérica superior. Em 64 pacientes (62,1%) a artéria ileocólica cruzou a veia mesentérica superior na face anterior e em 39 (37,9%), na face posterior. Em 58 pacientes (56,3%) a artéria cólica direita estava ausente ou era um ramo não independente da artéria mesentérica superior. A distância da raiz da artéria mesentérica superior à raiz da artéria cólica média foi de 37,8±12,8 mm e a distância da raiz da artéria cólica média até a raiz da artéria ileocólica foi de 29,5±15,7 mm. Em 66 pacientes (64,1%) o tronco de Henle estava acima da raiz da artéria cólica média, em 16 (15,5%) o tronco de Henle estava no mesmo nível da artéria cólica média e em 18 pacientes (17,5%) o tronco de Henle estava abaixo da artéria cólica média. CONCLUSÕES: A angiografia 3D-CT pré-operatória é um padrão chave na avaliação da anatomia vascular e pode potencialmente mostrar a complexidade de uma futura linfadenectomia e reduzir o risco de deiscência da anastomose.

Evolution of Japanese self-medication tax system and its enlightenment to China / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To learn from the self-medication tax system in Japan and improve over-the-counter drug cost sharing mechanism in China. METHODS By searching relevant policies and literature ，the evolution ，specific contents ，current situation and effects of Japanese self-medication tax system were summarized. Recommendations were put forward in the light of the actual situation of over-the-counter drug guarantee in China. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS Japan has implemented the self-medication tax system since 2017. The Ministry of Health ， Labour and Welfare has made clear provisions on the preconditions for applying for the tax system and the deduction standards of the tax system ，and established a list of drugs to be responsible for the regular inclusion and discharge of the drugs under the tax system. The self- medication tax system has a remarkable effect in promoting the self-health management ，disease prevention and reducing medical expenses of Japanese residents. Our country can learn from the self-medication tax system in Japan and the experience of implementing the special deduction system for major medical conditions in China. To promote rational self-medication ，it is advisable to add a special deduction system for over-the-counter drugs into deductions in personal income tax and formulate the criteria and scope of application ，and establish a special list of over-the-counter drugs，thereby reducing the heavy burden of medical expenses of residents ，and exploring a new way to share the costs of over-the-counter drugs which is applicable to our national conditions.

Correlação entre Cardiomegalia pela Radiografia de Tórax e Diâmetro do Ventrículo Esquerdo pela Ecocardiografia em Pacientes com Doença de Chagas / Correlation between Cardiomegaly on Chest X-Ray and Left Ventricular Diameter on Echocardiography in Patients with Chagas Disease

Resumo Fundamento Cardiomegalia pela radiografia de tórax (RXT) é preditor independente de morte em indivíduos com cardiomiopatia crônica da doença de Chagas (CCDC). Contudo, a correlação entre o aumento do índice cardiotorácico (ICT) na RXT e do diâmetro telediastólico do ventrículo esquerdo (DDVE) pela ecocardiografia (ECO) nessa população não está bem definida. Objetivos Analisar a relação entre cardiomegalia pela RXT e DDVE pela ECO em pacientes com doença de Chagas (DC) e sua aplicabilidade ao escore de Rassi. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo incluiu 63 pacientes ambulatoriais com DC avaliados por RXT e ECO. Cardiomegalia na RXT foi definida como ICT > 0,5. DDVE foi avaliado como variável contínua. Curva ROC foi utilizada para avaliar o potencial do DDVE para identificação de cardiomegalia pela RXT, com ponto de corte definido pela maior somatória de sensibilidade e especificidade. Resultados Idade mediana = 61 anos [intervalo interquartil: 48-68], 56% mulheres. CCDC foi identificada em 58 pacientes; 5 tinham a forma indeterminada da DC. Cardiomegalia foi detectada em 28 indivíduos. A área sob a curva ROC do DDVE para identificação de cardiomegalia foi de 0,806 (IC 95%: 0,692-0,919). O ponto de corte ótimo para DDVE foi de 60 mm (sensibilidade = 64%, especificidade = 89%). O uso do DDVE pela ECO em substituição ao ICT pela RXT alterou o escore de Rassi em 14 pacientes, e em 10 deles houve redução do risco presumido. Conclusão DDVE pela ECO é parâmetro adequado e com alta especificidade para distinguir entre presença e ausência de cardiomegalia na RXT na DC. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(1):68-74)

Abstract Background Cardiomegaly on chest X-ray is an independent predictor of death in individuals with chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC). However, the correlation between increased cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) on chest X-ray and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) on echocardiography is not well established in this population. Objectives To assess the relationship between chest X-ray and LVEDD on echocardiography in patients with Chagas disease and its applicability to the Rassi score. Methods Retrospective study on 63 Chagas disease outpatients who underwent chest X-ray and echocardiography. Cardiomegaly on chest X-ray was defined as a CTR>0.5. LVEDD was analyzed as a continuous variable. ROC curve was used to evaluate the ability of LVEDD in detecting cardiomegaly by chest X-ray, with a cut-off point defined by the highest sum of sensitivity and specificity. Results Median age 61 years [interquartile range 48-68], 56% were women. CCC was detected in 58 patients, five patients had the indeterminate form of Chagas disease. Cardiomegaly was detected in 28 patients. The area under the ROC curve for LVEDD was 0.806 (95%CI: 0.692-0.919). The optimal cut-off for LVEDD was 60 mm (sensitivity = 64%, specificity = 89%). The use of LVEDD on echocardiography as a surrogate for CTR on chest X-ray changed the Rassi score values of 14 patients, with a reduction in the presumed risk in 10 of them. Conclusion LVEDD on echocardiography is an appropriate, highly specific parameter to distinguish between the presence and absence of cardiomegaly on chest X-ray in Chagas disease. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(1):68-74)

Effect of Yinxing Mihuan Oral Solutionon P2RX7/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway in Depression Model Rats Induced by Isolation Combined with Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To explore the antidepressant mechanism of Yinxing Mihuan oral solution （YMO） by investigating its effect on depression model rats. Method:The depression rats were induced by isolation combined with chronic unpredictable mild stress （CUMS） and then randomly divided into model group， fluoxetine group （10 mg·kg^-1） and high-dose （618 mg·kg^-1） and low-dose （309 mg·kg^-1） YMO groups. A blank control group was also set up and ten rats were included in each group. Modeling lasted for 21 consecutive days， and rats were administered the 8th day after stimulation at a dose of 10 mL·kg^-1 for 14 days， except those in the blank control and model groups which were given distilled water. Afterward， the sucrose preference test， open field test， tail suspension test were carried out. The pathological changes of hippocampus in depression rats were observed after hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining. The content of interleukin-1<italic>β </italic>（IL-1<italic>β</italic>）， interleukin-6 （IL-6） and tumor necrosis factor-<italic>α </italic>（TNF-<italic>α</italic>） in the hippocampus of rats in each group and the expression of NOD-like receptor 3 （NLRP3） and other proteins in its related activation signaling pathways were detected with multi-factor detection （Luminex） and Western blot. Result:After 14 days of continuous administration， compared with the blank control group， the model group witnessed significantly reduced sugar water consumption rate and the times of rearing and significantly prolonged cumulative time of immobility during tail suspension （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）. Compared with the model group， the fluoxetine group and the high-dose YMO group saw increases in the times of rearing， times of crossing and sugar water consumption rate and a significant decrease in the cumulative time of immobility during tail suspension （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）. The results of HE staining showed that the neurons in the hippocampus of rats in the high-dose YMO group were arranged in order and slightly loosened， without obvious microglia infiltration observed. The levels of IL-1<italic>β</italic>， IL-6 and TNF-<italic>α</italic> in the hippocampus of the model group increased significantly as compared with the blank control group （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）， and their content in the high-dose YMO group was significantly lowered in the comparison with the model group （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）. Molecular biology experiments demonstrated that compared with the results of blank group， the expression of purinergic receptor P2X7 （P2RX7）， NLRP3， apoptosis-associated speck-like protein （ASC）， Caspase-1 and IL-1<italic>β</italic> remarkably increased in the model group （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）. Additionally， the expression of P2RX7， NLRP3， ASC， Caspase-1 and IL-1<italic>β </italic>was significantly inhibited in the fluoxetine group and the high-dose YMO group compared with the model group （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）. Conclusion:YMO can improve the depression-like behaviors of rats induced by isolation combined with CUMS， and its mechanism of action is related to the regulation of the P2RX7/NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Precisión diagnóstica de la radiografía para la medición de túneles óseos en reconstrucción de ligamento cruzado anterior / X ray diagnostic accuracy for bone tunnel measurements in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

OBJETIVO: Determinar la precisión diagnóstica de las radiografías de rodilla para la medición de los diámetros de los túneles tibiales y femorales en reconstrucción de ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA). MATERIALES Y PACIENTES: Estudio retrospectivo de precisión diagnóstica en pacientes con antecedentes de RLCA. Inclusión: RLCA realizada en el mismo centro, con el mismo equipo quirúrgico, entre 2011 y 2015; uso de cualquier tipo de injerto y de fijación; estudiados con radiografía (Rx) y tomografía computada (TC) durante postop en el mismo centro. Exclusión: desfase Rx-TC > 6 meses; cirugía entre estudios radiológicos. Análisis de túneles por 3 especialistas (OsiriX). La precisión diagnóstica consideró la TC como gold standard. Se midieron las diferencias inter e intra-observador, y las variables que interfirieron en las mediciones. RESULTADOS: 22 pacientes cumplieron los criterios de selección, determinando 528 mediciones en total (Rx y TC, fémur y tibia, 3 observadores, 2 tiempos). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la medición de los túneles femorales (p » 0.8986), pero sí en cuanto a los diámetros tibiales (p » 0.0001). El análisis de precisión diagnóstica determinó una sobrevaloración de los diámetros óseos al usar la radiografía (10,5% en fémur, 10% en tibia). Hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas inter-observador tanto en Rx como en TC (observador más joven con el resto); sin diferencias intra-observador. CONCLUSIÓN: La Rx como método diagnóstico del diámetro de túneles óseos luego de una RLCA sobreestima los valores reales, lo que empeora cuando el observador tiene menor experiencia.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of knee radiographs for the measurement of tibial and femoral tunnels diameters after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). MATERIALS AND PATIENTS: A retrospective study of the diagnostic accuracy in patients with a history of ACLR. Inclusion: surgery performed in the same center, same surgical team, between 2011 to 2015; any graft and fixation; studied with radiography (X-Ray) and computed tomography (CT) during postop in the same center. Exclusion: X-Ray-CT lag > 6 months; surgery between radiological studies. Tunnel analysis by 3 specialists (OsiriX). Diagnostic accuracy considered CT as a gold standard. The inter and intraobserver differences, and the variables that interfered in the measurements, were measured. RESULTS: 22 patients achieved the selection criteria, determining 528 measurements in total (X-Ray and CT, femur and tibia, 3 observers, 2 times). There were no statistically significant differences in the measurement of the femoral tunnels (p » 0.8986), but there were differences in the tibial diameters (p » 0.0001). Analysis of diagnostic accuracy determined an overestimation of the bone diameters when using the radiography (10.5% in the femur, 10% in the tibia). There were statistically significant inter-observer differences in both X-Ray and CT (younger observer with the rest); there were no intra-observer differences. CONCLUSION: X-Ray as a diagnostic method of the diameter of bone tunnels after an ACLR overestimates the real values, which worsens when the observer has less experience.

Risk Assessment of Insect-resistant and Herbicide Tolerant Genetically Modified Maize Bt11 for Cultivation, Import, Processing, Food and Feed Uses under Directive 2001/18/EC and Regulation (EC) Opinion

The Norwegian Environment Agency (NEA) and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA) requested the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (Vitenskapskomiteen for mattrygghet, VKM) for an opinion of potential risks to biodiversity and agriculture in Norway associated with import of seeds for sowing and cultivation of insect-resistant and herbicide tolerant genetically modified maize Bt11 under Directive 2001/18/EC (Notification C/F/96.05.10). The notification is still pending for authorisation in the European Union. VKM is also requested to assess the applicant´s post-market environmental monitoring plan, and the management measures suggested in the draft implementing decision of the European Commission. As the scope of the notification does not cover food and feed uses of maize Bt11, VKM was not asked for a health risk assessment of maize Bt11. However, VKM has decided to update a previous safety evaluation of the food and feed uses of maize Bt11 and derived products (VKM, 2014). VKM appointed a working group consisting of members from the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, the Panel on Alien Organisms and trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the VKM staff to answer the requests. The Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms assessed and approved the final report. The genetically modified maize Bt11 was developed to provide protection against certain lepidopteran target pests, such as the European corn borer (ECB, Ostrinia nubilalis), and some species belonging to the genus Sesamia . The insect resistence is achieved by the expression of a truncated form of a Cry1Ab protein encoded by a modified cry1Ab gene derived from the soil microorganism Bacillus thuringiensis subsp kurstaki HD-1. Maize Bt11 also expresses the phosphinothricin - N - ace tyltransferase (pat) gene, derived from the soil microorganism Streptomyces viridochromogenes strain Tu494, which encodes the enzyme: phosphinothricin acetyl transferase (PAT). PAT protein confers tolerance to the herbicidal active substance glufosinate-ammonium. The PAT protein expressed in Bt11 was used as a selectable marker to facilitate the selection process of transformed plant cells and is not intended for weed management purposes. Since the scope of the notification C/F/96.05.10 does not cover the use of glufosinate-ammonium-containing herbicides on maize Bt11, potential effects due to the use of such herbicides on maize Bt11 are not considered by VKM. In delivering its scientific opinion, VKM considered relevant peer-reviewed scientific publications and information provided by the applicant in the notification C/F/96.05.10, the renewal application EFSA/GMO/RX/Bt11, and scientific opinions and comments from EFSA and other EU-member states. VKM has evaluated maize Bt11 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010a), selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA, 2011b) and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of maize Bt11 includes molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of novel proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, nutritional assessments, toxicology and allergenicity. An evaluation of unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms, effects on biogeochemical processes, the post-market environmental monitoring plan and coexistence measures at the farm level has also been undertaken. It is emphasised that the VKM mandate does not include assessments of contribution to sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act. These considerations are therefore not part of the risk assessment provided by the VKM. Molecular Characterization: Appropriate analyses of the integration site, inserted DNA sequence, flanking regions, and bioinformatics have been performed. The molecular characterisation reported by the applicant shows that the DNA-fragment containing the cry1Ab and pat genes, is integrated as a single copy at a single locus in the nuclear genome of maize Bt11 and that it is stably inherited as a dominant trait. VKM considers the molecular characterisation of maize Bt11 satisfactory. Comparative Assessment: Comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in North America and Europe indicates that maize Bt11 is compositionally equivalent to its conventional counterpart, with the exception of the herbicide tolerance and insect resistance traits, conferred by the expression of the PAT and Cry1Ab proteins. However, data on the amino acid tryptophan, is only given in one out of six studies. Based on current knowledge, VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is compositionally equivalent to conventional maize. The data provided by the applicant are not sufficient to show that Bt11 maize is phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to conventional near-isogenic maize lines. The agronomic assessment data are provided from one growing season in the North America and one growing season in France. This is not considered to be sufficient for representative testing of agricultural environments. Food and Feed Risk Assessment: Whole food feeding studies have not indicated any adverse health effects of maize Bt11. These studies further support that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize. The Cry1Ab and PAT proteins do not show sequence resemblance to other known toxins or IgE allergens, nor have they been reported to cause IgE mediated allergic reactions. Some studies have however indicated a potential role of Cry-proteins as adjuvants in allergic reactions. Based on current knowledge, the VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize varieties. It is unlikely that the Cry1Ab and PAT proteins will introduce a toxic or allergenic potential in food or feed based on maize Bt11 compared to conventional maize. Environmental Risk Assessment: Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivated maize with which maize can hybridise and form backcross progeny. Vertical gene transfer in maize therefore depends on cross-pollination with other conventional or organic maize varieties. In addition, unintended admixture of genetically modified material in seeds represents a possible way for gene flow between different crop cultivations. The risk of pollen flow from maize volunteers is negligible under Norwegian growing conditions. Since maize Bt11 has no altered agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, except for the specific target insect resistance and herbicide tolerance, the likelihood of unintended environmental effects as a consequence of spread of genes from maize Bt11 is considered to be extremely low. There are no reports of the target lepidopteran species attaining pest status on maize in Norway. Since there are no Bt-based insecticides approved for use in Norway, and lepidopteran pests have not been registered in maize, issues related to resistance evolution in target pests are not relevant at present for Norwegian agriculture. Published scientific studies showed that the likelihood of negative effects of Cry1Ab protein on non-target arthropods that live on or in the vicinity of maize plants is low. In Norway, the maize cultivation is marginal. The total crop area of forage maize is estimated to 2000-2800 decares, equivalent to less than 0.1% of the areas with cereal crops. The area of individual fields is limited by the topography such that the quantity of maize pollen produced under flowering is also limited. The potential exposure of Cry1Ab-containing maize pollen on non-target lepidopteran species in Norway is therefore negligible. Cultivation of maize Bt11 is not considered to represent a threat to the prevalence of red-listed species in Norway. Exposure of nontarget organisms to Cry proteins in aquatic ecosystems is likely to be very low, and potential exposure of Cry proteins to non-target organisms in aquatic ecosystems in Norway is considered to be negligible. VKM concludes that, although the data on the fate of the Cry1Ab protein and its potential interactions in soil are limited, the relevant scientific publications analysing the Cry1Ab protein, together with the relatively broad knowledge about the environmental fate of other Cry1 proteins, do not indicate significant direct effects on the soil environment. Despite limited number of studies, most studies conclude that effects on soil microorganisms and microbial communities are transient and minor compared to effects caused by agronomic and environmental factors. However, data are only available from short-term experiments and predictions of potential long-term effects are difficult to deduce. Coexistence: VKM concludes that separation distances of 200 meters most likely will ensure coexistence between genetically modified maize and conventional and organic maize varieties in Norway. Overall Conclusion: Based on current knowledge, VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent t

Risk Assessment of Insect-resistant and Herbicide Tolerant Genetically Modified Maize 1507 for Cultivation, Import, Processing, Food and Feed Uses under Directive 2001/18/EC and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003

The Norwegian Environment Agency (NEA) and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA) requested the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (Vitenskapskomiteen for mattrygghet, VKM) for an opinion of potential risks to biodiversity and agriculture in Norway associated with import of seeds for sowing, and cultivation of insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant genetically modified maize 1507 under Directive 2001/18/EC (Notification C/ES/01/01). The notification is still pending for authorisation in the European Union. VKM is also requested to assess the applicant´s post-market environmental monitoring plan, and the management measures suggested in the draft implementing decision of the European Commission. As VKM delivered a scientific opinion on this application including cultivation in 2014 (VKM, 2014), VKM is asked to assess whether the previous risk assessment is still valid concerning cultivation, and to update the opinion after current knowledge. The assessment shall specifically consider Norwegian conditions. Furthermore, as the notification does not cover food and feed uses of maize 1507, VKM was not asked for a health risk assessment of maize 1507. However, VKM has decided to update the previous safety evaluation of the food and feed uses of maize 1507 and derived products from 2014. VKM appointed a working group consisting of members from the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, the Panel on Alien Organisms and trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the VKM staff to answer the requests. The Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms has assessed and approved the final report. The genetically modified maize 1507 was developed to provide protection against certain lepidopteran target pests, such as the European corn borer (ECB, Ostrinia nubilalis), and some species belonging to the genus Sesamia. The insect resistence is achieved by the expression of a synthetic version of the truncated c ry1F gene derived from Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai, a common soil bacterium. Maize 1507 also expresses the phosphinothricin - N - acetyltransferase (pat) gene, derived from the soil bacterium Streptomyces viridochromogenes. PAT protein confers tolerance to the herbicidal active substance glufosinate-ammonium. The PAT protein expressed in maize 1507 was used as a selectable marker to facilitate the selection process of transformed plant cells and is not intended for weed management purposes. Since the scope of the notification C/ES/01/01 does not cover the use of glufosinate-ammonium-containing herbicides on maize 1507, potential effects due to the use of such herbicides on maize 1507 are not considered by VKM. In delivering its scientific opinion, VKM considered relevant peer-reviewed scientific publications and information provided by the applicant in the notifications C/ES/01/01, C/NL/00/10, the applications EFSA/GMO/NL/2004/02 and EFSA/GMO/RX/1507, and scientific opinions and comments from EFSA and other EU member states. VKM has evaluated maize 1507 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. VKM has also decided to take into account, the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA, 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA, 2010a), selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA, 2011b) and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA, 2011c). The scientific opinion of maize 1507 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of novel proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, nutritional assessments, toxicology and allergenicity. An evaluation of unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms, effects on biogeochemical processes, the postmarket environmental monitoring plan and coexistence measures at the farm level has also been undertaken. It is emphasised that VKM’s mandate does not include assessments of contribution to sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act. These considerations are therefore not part of the risk assessment provided by VKM. Molecular Characterization: Appropriate analyses of the transgenic DNA insert, its integration site, number of inserts and flanking sequences in the maize genome, have been performed. The results show that one copy only of the insert is present in maize 1507. Homology searches with databases of known toxins and allergens have not indicated any potential production of harmful proteins or polypeptides caused by the genetic modification in maize 1507. Southern blot analyses and segregation studies show that the introduced genes cry1F and pat are stably inherited and expressed over several generations along with the phenotypic characteristics of maize 1507. VKM considers the molecular characterisation of maize 1507 satisfactory. Comparative Assessment: Comparative analyses of maize 1507 to its non-GM conventional counterpart have been performed during multiple field trials located at representative sites and environments in Chile (1998/99), USA (1999) and in Europe (1999, 2000 and 2002). With the exception of small intermittent variations, no biologically significant differences were found between maize 1507 and the conventional maize. Based on the assessment of available data, VKM concludes that maize 1507 is compositionally, agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to its conventional counterpart, except for the introduced characteristics, and that its composition fell within the normal ranges of variation observed among non-GM varieties. The field evaluations support a conclusion of no phenotypic changes indicative of increased plant weed/pest potential of 1507 compared to conventional maize. Food and Feed Safety Assessment: Whole food feeding studies on rats, broilers, pullets, pigs and cattle have not indicated any adverse health effects of maize 1507. These studies further indicate that maize 1507 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize. The PAT and Cry1F proteins do not show sequence resemblance to other known toxins or IgE allergens, nor have they been reported to cause IgE mediated allergic reactions. Some studies have however, indicated a potential role of Cry-proteins as adjuvants in allergic reactions. Based on current knowledge, VKM concludes that maize 1507 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize varieties. It is unlikely that the PAT and Cry1F proteins will introduce a toxic or allergenic potential in food or feed based on maize 1507 compared to conventional maize. Environmental Risk Assessment: Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivated maize with which maize can hybridise and form backcross progeny. Vertical gene transfer in maize therefore depends on cross-pollination with other conventional or organic maize varieties. In addition, unintended admixture of genetically modified material in seeds represents a possible way for gene flow between different crop cultivations. The risk of pollen flow from maize volunteers is negligible under Norwegian growing conditions. Since maize 1507 has no altered agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, except for the specific target insect resistance and herbicide tolerance, the likelihood of unintended environmental effects as a consequence of spread of genes from maize 1507 is considered to be extremely low. There are no reports of the target lepidopteran species attaining pest status on maize in Norway. Since there are no Bt-based insecticides approved for use in Norway, and lepidopteran pests have not been registered in maize, issues related to resistance evolution in target pests are not relevant at present for Norwegian agriculture. There are a limited number of published scientific studies on environmental effects of Cry1F protein. Published scientific studies show that the likelihood of negative effects of Cry1F protein on non-target arthropods that live on or in the vicinity of maize plants is low. In Norway, the maize cultivation is marginal. The total crop area of forage maize is estimated to 2000-2800 decares, equivalent to less than 0.1 % of the areas with cereal crops. The area of individual fields is limited by the topography such that the quantity of maize pollen produced under flowering is also limited. The potential exposure of Cry1F-containing maize pollen on non-target lepidopteran species in Norway is therefore negligible. Cultivation of maize 1507 is not considered to represent a threat to the prevalence of red-listed species in Norway. Exposure of non-target organisms to Cry proteins in aquatic ecosystems is likely to be very low, and potential exposure of Cry proteins to non-target organisms in aquatic ecosystems in Norway is considered to be negligible. VKM concludes that, although the data on the fate of the Cry1F protein and its potential interactions in soil are limited, the relevant scientific publications analysing the Cry1F protein, together with the relatively broad knowledge about the environmental fate of other Cry1 proteins, do not indicate significant direct effects on the soil environment. Despite limited number of studies, most studies conclude that effects on soil microorganisms and microbial communities are transient and minor c

Effects of sIL-13Rα2 on the nasal mucosa goblet cell apoptosis of allergic rhinitis of rats / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#To investigate the effects of sIL-13Rα2 on the apoptosis of goblet cell in nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis rats.@*Methods@#Forty healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (10 rats per group): control group (group A), AR group (group B), sIL-13Rα2 group (group C) and triamcinolone acetonide group (group D). Ovalbumin (OVA) and aluminum hydroxide were used to establish the AR rat model. After the establishment of AR rat models, 50 μl PBS, 100 μg/50 μl IL-13Rα2 and 3.5 μg/50 μl triamcinolone acetonide were respectively dropped into each nasal cavity of every rat two times a week from 4 to 10 week in group B, group C and group D. Group A was operated with saline instead of OVA. The nasal mucosa tissues were collected at 24 h after the final administration. AB-PAS staining method was used to detect the quantity and secretion of goblet cells in the nasal mucosa tissue of all groups. Immunohistochemistry method was used to detect the expression of Bax proteins.Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL method.ANOVA analysis was used to compare multiple groups, and LSD-t test was used to compare the two groups.Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the Bax positive cell rate of goblet cells and the rate of apoptotic cells. The difference was statistically significant with P<0.05.@*Results@#Compared with group A, there were more goblet cells and hypersecretion of mucus in the nasal mucosa tissue of rats in group B while fewer in group C. The goblet cells in group C and group D were significantly fewer than that in group B (0.639 00±0.831 vs 0.956 7±0.980, 0.661 90±0.657 vs 0.956 7±0.980, t value was 2.748, 2.767, respectively, all P<0.05). The immunohistochemistry results showed that the positive expression rates of Bax protein in goblet cells of group C and group D were significantly higher than that in group B (0.880 2±0.125 vs 0.568 7±0.953, 0.938 4±0.200 vs 0.568 7±0.953, t value was -2.292, -2.685, respectively, all P<0.05). The apoptosis rates of goblet cell in nasal mucosa of group C and group D were also significantly higher than that in group B (0.516 0±0.079 vs 0.274 0±0.056, 0.535 4±0.829 vs 0.274 0±0.056, t value was -17.671, -2.225, respectively, all P<0.05). The expression of Bax protein and apoptosis of goblet cells were positively correlated (r=0.859, P<0.01).@*Conclusion@#sIL-13Rα2 can induce apoptosis of the goblet cells in nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis rats, by inhibiting IL-13 and up regulating Bax.

LncRNAs expression profile in testis tissues of CRYBB2 gene knockout mice / 第二军医大学学报

Objective To explore the expression profile of lncRNAs in the testis tissue of CRYBB2 gene knockout (KO) mice and its possible role in the testis development. Methods Testis tissues(n=3)from wild-type (WT) and CRYBB2 KO mice were subjected to lncRNA and mRNA microarray profiling. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to group the differentially expressed lncRNAs into regulated gene pathways and functions. The correlation matrix method was used to establish a network of lncRNA and mRNA co-expression. Quantitative (q)RT-PCR was used to verify expression of some differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs. Results There were 140 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 477 differentially expressed mRNAs between testis tissues from WT and KO mice. There were 12 differentially expressed lncRNAs through the analyses of the GO, with 7 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated. The KEGG analysis showed that these differentially expressed mRNAs played important roles in Ca2+ signaling, ligand and receptor interactions, and so on. The correlation matrix method established an lncRNA and mRNA co-expression network, consisting of 9 lncRNAs and 8 mRNAs, with 17 nodes and 12 connections. Furthermore, expression of gene Rsl1 was regulated by three lncRNAs, expression of gene Lpo and gene Mpo was regulated by two lncRNAs, and expression of gene Hdac1 and gene Ephb4 was regulated by one lncRNA. qRT-PCR confirmed the significant down-regulation of lncRNA A-30-P01019163 expression, which significantly down-regulated its downstream gene P2rx7 in testis tissues of CRYBB2 KO mice(P<0.05). Conclusion LncRNA is closely related to the non-crystalline lens function of CRYBB2. LncRNA A-30-P01019163 may affect testicular cell cycle and signaling pathway by regulating P2rx7 expression in the testis tissues.

A Survey of Views on Rx-to-OTC Switches in the Patients Afflicted with Lifestyle-related Diseases such as Hypertension, Diabetes and/or Hyperlipidemia / 社会薬学

<p>To clarify the views and needs on Rx-to-OTC switches in patients afflicted with lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and/or hyperlipidemia, our survey was conducted with 199 patients at a pharmacy in Tokyo, Japan.Of the 199 patients, 159 people were patients afflicted with lifestyle-related diseases.One hundred and ten patients afflicted with lifestyle-related diseases were seventy-year-old and older, and 149 of the patients have been to a hospital at least once in the past year.Thirty-six point five percent of the patients afflicted with lifestyle-related diseases replied that they wanted to use Rx-to-OTC switches when they had been ill and/or injured.The main reasons that they wanted to use Rx-to-OTC switches were “convenience” and “always the same drugs”.On the other hand, the main reason that they did not want to use Rx-to-OTC switches was “I want to have a detailed examination”.Twenty-three point nine percent of them replied that they wanted to switch their prescription drugs to Rx-to-OTC switches. We believe that the usage of Rx-to-OTC switches after the establishment of a support system to secure safety can be the answer to the issues of the rise in medical care expenditures and doctor shortage.</p>

Enfisema orbitario espontáneo, una rara complicación tras maniobra de Valsalva / Spontaneous Orbital Emphysema, a Rare Complication after Valsalva Maneuver

Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 44 años de edad que consultó al servicio de urgencias por presentar un edema súbito palpebral izquierdo posterior a una maniobra de Valsalva. El enfisema orbitario espontáneo es una entidad poco frecuente que se caracteriza por la presencia de aire en los tejidos blandos periorbitarios producido por la comunicación de estos con los senos paranasales. Es importante mencionar la utilidad de las imágenes diagnósticas de esta entidad, ya que permite descartar otras lesiones asociadas, con la subsecuente implicación terapéutica.

We report a 44 years old male who consulted to the emergency department because he presented sudden left eyelid edema after a Valsalva maneuver. Spontaneous orbital emphysema is a rare entity characterized by the presence of air in the periorbital soft tissues produced by direct communication to the paranasal sinuses. It is important to mention the usefulness of diagnostic images of this entity, allowing us to rule out other injuries associated with subsequent therapeutic implications.

Influencia del tratamiento con aparatología ortopédico-funcional sobre la luz del rinofaringe / Influence of the functional-orthopedic appliances treatment on rhino-pharynx patency

Es por todos conocido que la respiración bucal juega un papel de suma importancia en la aparición de las disgnacias en edades tempranas. Con el objetivo de determinar qué tratamiento resulta más adecuado en relación a un enfoque etiopatogénico y comparar los resultados obtenidos, se realizó el siguiente trabajo. La muestra estuvo formada por 36 pacientes disgnácicos, entre 4 y 14 años, divididos en tres grupos. Grupo A: sin tratamiento (grupo control), formado por 15 pacientes (41,66 por ciento); grupo B: tratado con ortopedia funcional, formado por 14 pacientes (38,88 por ciento); grupo C: tratado con ortodoncia, formado por 7 pacientes (19,44 por ciento). Todos ellos fueron elegidos al azar. Se midió la luz de la vía aérea superior, sobre calcos de tele-Rx de cabeza de perfil, tomadas con un intervalo no menor a 10 meses, en la ciudad de La Plata, capital de la prov. de Buenos Aires, y en la ciudad de Neuquén, capital de la prov. de Neuquén, República Argentina, en un universo constituido por 2500 pacientes. Para realizar las mediciones, se utilizaron cinco parámetros del cefalograma faríngeo, observándose que en el grupo A hubo una disminución promedio de -0,49mm. Si consideramos la evolución de este grupo control como referencia, podemos decir que hubo aumento de la luz faríngea en todos los pacientes tratados: en el grupo B de un 100 por ciento (1.49mm) y en el grupo C de 75 por ciento (0.99mm). Como conclusión evidente, los pacientes tratados con ortopedia funcional fueron los que alcanzaron mayor aumento de la luz de la vía aérea superior.

Necesidad de radiografía de tórax después del abordaje venoso profundo en pacientes pediátricos cardiópatas / Need of thorax X-ray film after deep venous approach in children presenting with heart disease

Introducción: La radiografía de tórax puede ser potencialmente omitida en ciertos casos luego de la inserción de un catéter venoso central cuando los médicos aplican una técnica correcta, buen juicio clínico y discriminan bien los casos. Objetivo: Determinar si se puede prescindir de la radiografía de tórax después del abordaje venoso central. Método: Se incluyó en un estudio prospectivo, analítico, descriptivo y observacional 72 pacientes pediátricos programados para cirugía cardiaca electiva previo consentimiento informado y aprobación del Comité de Ética. Posterior a la inducción de la anestesia general se colocó un calzo interescapular de 3-5 cm. La cabeza se situó en posición central y extendida, Trendelemburg 15 grados. A nivel del cartílago cricoideo se localizó el pulso carotideo derecho y lateral a este se procedió a puncionar la vena yugular interna. El trocar se dirigió con un ángulo de 45º hacia la mama ipsilateral. Se introdujo el catéter mediante técnica de Seldinger clásica. Se confirmó la posición en la unión atriocava del catéter durante la apertura de la aurícula derecha. En la sala de terapia intensiva se realizó Rx tórax anteroposterior y se recogieron las complicaciones hasta su llegada a esta. Resultados: En todos los casos el catéter quedó colocado de forma correcta y sin complicaciones relacionadas con la posición. Conclusiones: No es necesario el uso rutinario de la radiografía de tórax de control después del abordaje venoso central según la técnica descrita en este trabajo.

Introduction: Thorax X-ray film may be potentially missed in some cases after insertion of a central venous catheter when physicians apply an appropriate technique, a good clinical criterion and a deep discrimination of cases. Objective: To determine if it possible to omit of thorax X-ray film after the central venous approach. Method: In a observational, descriptive, analytical and prospective study authors included 72 children candidates to elective cardiac surgery previous informed consent and the approval of the Ethics Committee. After anesthesia induction a 3-5 cm intercapsular wedge was placed. Head was placed in central and extended position, Trendelemburg 15º. At level of cricoid cartilage the right and carotid pulse was localized and lateral to it the puncture of internal jugular vein was made. Trocar was directed in a 45º angle towards the ipsilateral breast. The catheter was introduced by the classic Seldinger technique. The location in the atriocaval junction during the opening of right atrium was confirmed. In the intensive therapy service the anteroposterior thorax X-ray film was made signaling the complications until its arrival. Results: In all the cases the catheter remains placed in a proper way and without complications related to position. Conclusions: The systematic use of a control thorax X-ray film it is not necessary after the central venous approach according the technique described in present paper.

Hernia diafragmática izquierda: a propósito de un caso en el Centro de Emergencia Infantil Coromoto enero 2008 / Left diaphragmatic hernia: a purpose of a case in Centro Emergencia Infaltil Coromoto january 2008

Es una Patología Neonatal por persistencia del Canal Pleuroperitoneal ó la Agenesia Total o Parcial del Diafragma con introducción de las vísceras abdominales: (estómago, intestino delgado y grueso, incluso bazo, riñón y páncreas) en el tórax, asociado a una hipoplasia pulmonar uni o bilateral. Los síntomas se presentan inmediatamente después del nacimiento con frecuencia requieren maniobras, la dificultad respiratoria es severa y conlleva a la insuficiencia respiratoria con hipoxia, hipercapnea y acidosis severa. Se presenta caso diagnosticado en el Centro de Emergencia Infantil Coromoto. Lactante menor de 5 meses de edad, antecedentes de tos alérgica persistente desde el nacimiento con mejoría parcial por tratamiento vía oral e inhalatoria hasta la edad de 5 meses cuyo síntoma empeoro, se trató como síndrome viral agudo, hasta que se le realiza su primera RX de tórax evidenciándose Hernia Diafragmática izquierda o de Bochdalek, la cual fue corregida Quirúrgicamente con evolución satisfactoria.

Aspergilosis: una patología a considerar / Aspergillosis: a phatology to be considered

La aspergilosis pulmonar es una infección micótica causada por el Aspergillus fumigatus, saprófito del esputo humano normal. Se estudiaron cinco casos de pacientes con aspergilosis, cuatro de ellos adultos, tres del sexo femenino y uno masculino, todos de presentación no invasiva, y uno, pediátrico, sexo masculino, del tipo invasiva. Fueron estudiados con radiología convencional, tomografía computada (TC) helicoidal, TC multislice y video cápsula endoscópica. Afecta 3:1 a los hombres en relación con las mujeres. Hay tres formas de presentación: a) invasiva: en los pacientes neutropénicos, donde predomina la afectación pulmonar, con diseminación a cerebro, corazón, riñón, tracto gastrointestinal, hígado, tiroides y bazo; tiene mal pronóstico y la mortalidad es muy elevada; b) semiinvasiva: compromete fundamentalmente a pacientes con patología pulmonar preexistente; c) no invasiva: afecta cavidades preexistentes, cavernas TBC ( tuberculosis) o quistes, donde coloniza el hongo, y se denomina aspergiloma o micetoma.

Pulmonary aspergillosis is a mycotic infection caused by the Aspergillus fumigatus, saprophyte of the normal human sputum. Five patients with non invasive aspergillosis were studied, of whom 4 were adults (3 women, 1 man) and one, pediatric, with invasive aspergillosis. All of them were studied by conventional X-ray, spiral CT, multislice CT and video capsule endoscopy. The presentation is predominant among men (3 to 1). There are three forms of presentation: a) invasive: in neutropenic patients it prevails the lung affectation; the brain, heart, kidney gastrointestinal tract, liver, thyroid and spleen spreading has a bad prognosis and mortality rate is very high; b) semiinvasive: it mainly compromises patients with pre-existing pulmonary pathology; c) non invasive: affects pre-existing cavities, TBC caverns or cysts where the fungus establishes; it is called aspergilloma or mycetoma.

ESTUDIO DRX EN MATERIALES CATALIZADORES Cu-Ni-SiO2 PARA HIDROGENACIÓN DE ACEITE DE SOYA. DESARROLLO DE ESTRUCTURA CRISTALINA Y ACTIVIDAD CATALÍTICA / DRX STUDY IN CATALYSTS MATERIAL Cu-Ni-SiO2 FOR HYDROGENATION OF SOY OIL. DEVELOPMENT OF CRYSTALLINE STRUCTURE AND CATALYTIC ACTIVITY / ESTUDO DRX EM MATERIAIS CATALISADORES Cu-Ni-SiO2 PARA HIDROGENACIÓN DE AZEITE DE SOYA. DESENVOLVIMENTO DE ESTRUTURA CRISTALINA E ATIVIDADE CATALÍTICA

Para buscar elementos experimentales que soporten la hipótesis según la cual se forman estructuras cristalinas Cu-Ni o, eventualmente, Cu-Ni-SiO2 en la síntesis de catalizadores para la hidrogenación de aceite de soya, se prepararon mezclas de estos tres materiales a partir de sales de los metales con sílice (aerosil). Se calcinaron a 270 °C y se redujeron a 330 °C en atmósfera de hidrógeno. En los materiales reducidos se estudió el difractógrama de RX en el rango 37 a 53°, y se comparó con el difractograma de aleaciones Cu-Ni -en las cuales se conoce la formación de cristales mixtos-, y con los difractogramas de los elementos puros Cu y Ni. Los resultados muestran señales de difracción diferentes a las señales de los componentes puros. La actividad catalítica se muestra diferente en los materiales que presentan distorsión en su estructura cristalina.

Looking for experimental facts that support the hypothesis of formation of Cu-Ni or Cu-Ni-SiO2 crystals formation hypo- thesis in the syntesis of catalytic materials for soja oil hydrogenation, different mixtures of the metals nitrates with SiO2 (aerosil), were prepared and calcined at 270 oC, then reduced in hydrogen atmosphere at 330 oC. RX Diffraction registers of the prepared materials, Ni-Cu alloys, Ni and Cu pure metals, show that differences in diffraction signal in prepared materials exist with respect to pure metals. The catalytic activity show differences too.

Para procurar elementos experimentais que suportem a hipótese segundo a qual se formam estruturas cristalinas Cu-Ni ou eventualmente Cu-Ni-SiO2 na síntese de catalisadores para a hidrogenación de azeite de soya, prepararam-se misturas destes três materiais a partir de sais dos metais com sílice (aerosil). Se calcinaron a 270 °C e se reduziram a 330 °C em atmosfera de hidrogênio. Nos materiais reduzidos se estudou o difractógrama de RX na casta 36 a 53 graus, e se comparou com o difractógrama de ligas de metais Cu-Nem, nas quais se conhece a formação de cristais mistos, e com os difractógramas dos elementos puros Cu e Nem. Os resultados mostram que se apresentam sinais de difracção diferentes aos sinais dos componentes puros. A atividade catalítica se mostra diferente nos materiais que apresentam distorção em sua estrutura cristalina.

he Performance of the Newly Released Automated Chemistry Analyzer Rx Imola / 임상검사와정도관리

BACKGROUND: The Rx Imola (Randox, UK) is newly released bench top - fully automated analyzer based on Window XP software with high-throughput (640 tests per hour with ISE) and continuous random access. We evaluated the performance of Rx Imola for the routine chemistry. METHODS: Repeatability (within-day precision), between-day precision, within-device precision, linearity, recovery rates and correlation were evaluated for 19 items including AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, total protein, BUN, creatinine, glucose, amylase, total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDH, CK and uric acid. Commercialized quality control materials and patient's sera were used. For correlation study, 747-100 (HITACHI, Japan) and VITROS 950 (Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, USA) were used as comparative analyzers. RESULTS: Coefficients of variation (CVs) of all items in repeatability and between-day precision study were below 5%. The linearities were statistically acceptable (R2>0.99) for all items. The recovery rates ranged from 95.7 to 105.3%. The comparison study showed high correlation between Rx Imola and 747-100 or VITROS 950. Correlation coefficients of all items were above 0.99 except HDL and albumin. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed satisfactory results in precision, linearity, recovery rates and comparison studies of Rx Imola. It was expected to be useful for routine chemistry analysis and back up, because of high performance, easy handling and small size.

Manifestações esqueléticas da anemia falciforme / Skeletal manifestations in the sickle cell anemia

A anemia falciforme (A.F) é uma anemia hemolitica caracterizada pela presença anormal da hemoglobina S. Esta revisão tem como objetivo discutir os achados radiográficos do esqueleto em pacientes com A. F. Descrevemos as duas principais causas de alteração óssea, demonstrando a importância do uso da radiologia convencional no diagnóstico destas alterações.

G-protein Effects on 3HRX821002 Binding to Alpha-2 Adrenoceptor in Rat Brain / 대한정신약물학회지

OBJECTIVE: This study is to explore the effects on specific bindings between [ 3H]RX821002, alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor in rat brain by G-protein modulation. METHODS: The radioligand binding receptor study was conducted with [ 3H]RX821002, a new alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, in the presence or absence of Gpp(NH)p and pertussis toxin. RESULTS: The alpha-2 adrenergic receptors were saturated with [ 3H]RX821002 in the fashion of the single binding site. The dissociation constant (Kd) was 0.70+/-0.30 nM, and maximum binding (Bmax) was 599.9+/-283.4 fmol/mg protein. The saturation study showed that the maximum binding (B max ; 668.0+/-50.1 fmol/mg protein) was increased and the dissociation constant (Kd ; 0.61+/-0.14 nM) was decreased significantly in the presence of Gpp (NH)p compared to those (B max ; 559.8+/-81.9 fmol/mg protein, Kd ; 0.87+/-0.14 nM) in the absence of Gpp (NH)p (by paired t-test ; B max, p=0.023, Kd, p=0.005). In the presence of pertussis toxin, the maximum binding (B max ; 617.0+/-58.5 fmol/mg protein) was increased significantly (by paired t-test ; B max, p=0.001) but the issociation constant (Kd ; 0.92+/-0.24 nM) was not decreased compared to those (B max ; 554.1+/-66.1 fmol/mg protein, Kd ; 0.89+/-0.24 nM) in the absence of pertussis toxin. CONCLUSION: These results confirm that the binding profiles between [ 3H]RX821002 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors be modified by G-protein modulation. This suggests that the drug effects on receptors be influenced by various conditions such as G-protein modulation.