Usabilidade de um aplicativo móvel de apoio aos profissionaisde saúde para cálculos de doses de vancomicina / Usability of a mobile application supporting healthprofessionals on vancomycin dosing calculation

O aplicativo móvel CalcVAN foi desenvolvido para auxiliar os profissionais de saúde para otimizar as doses de vancomicina em pacientes hospitalizados. Porém, é imprescindível avaliar a sua usabilidade antes de disponibilizá-lo para prática clínica. Assim, o objetivo do estudo é avaliar a usabilidade do aplicativo móvel na perspectiva dos profissionais de saúde. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, de avaliação heurística da usabilidade de um aplicativo móvel. Foram convidados profissionais da área de saúde com expertise no tema de gerenciamento de antimicrobianos e vancomicina. O instrumento validado Smartphone Usability questionnaiRE (SURE) foi utilizado para mensuração da usabilidade por meio de um questionário on-line. Vinte e um especialistas participaram do estudo, com média de idade de 32,6 anos, sendo a maioria de mulheres (n = 14, 66,7%), profissionais farmacêuticos (n = 13, 61,9%), com pós-graduação lato sensu (n = 10, 47,6%), que trabalhavam em hospitais públicos ou privados (n = 15, 71,4%) e com média de experiência em 9,7 anos. Com base na interpretação dos resultados obtidos pelo instrumento SURE, a média de usabilidade geral do CalcVAN foi de 83 pontos, com escore menor de 78 e maior de 90 pontos. O teste de usabilidade foi enquadrado nos dois últimos níveis, 70 e 80, onde os profissionais de saúde passaram a concordar fortemente e totalmente, indicando que o aplicativo móvel apresenta uma usabilidade satisfatória. O CalcVAN atingiu uma usabilidade satisfatória e atende as necessidades e exigências dos profissionais de saúde, mostrando--se eficiente para realizar as funções propostas.

The CalcVAN app was developed to assist healthcare professionals in optimizing vancomycin doses for hospitalized patients. However, the usability test before making it available for clinical practice is essential. Therefore, the study aims to evaluate the usability of the app from the perspective of health professionals. A descriptive study, a heuristic evaluation of the usability of a mobile application was conducted. Healthcare professionals with expertise in antimicrobial management and vancomycin were invited to participate. The validated Smartphone Usability questionnaiRE (SURE) was used to measure usability through an online questionnaire. Twenty-one experts participated in the study, with a mean age of 32.6 years, mostly of them women (n = 14, 66.7%), pharmacists (n = 13, 61.9%), with postgraduate education (n = 10, 47.6%), working in private or public hospitals (n = 15, 71.4%), and a mean experience of 9.7 years. Overall usability score for CalcVAN was 83 points, ranging from a minimum of 78 to a maximum of 90 points. The usability test registered within the last two levels, 70 and 80, with users expressing strongly and fully agreed, indicating that the app demonstrates satisfactory usability. CalcVAN achieved satisfactory usability, fulfilling the needs and requirements of health professionals, proving to be efficient in performing the intended functions.

Usage and Dosage Analysis and Countermeasures for Development of Compound Preparations of Han Dynasty Famous Classical Formulas / 中国实验方剂学杂志

In order to provide a reference basis for the development of relevant compound preparations， this article takes a comprehensive analysis of the usage and dosage of famous classical formulas in Han dynasty from various perspectives， and gives corresponding countermeasures on this basis. Through the comprehensive analysis of the classification and statistics of Zhongjing's medication characteristics， decoction methods， administration and dosage， and combining conversion methods of weights and measures by ancient medical practitioners， along with the dosage and administration of the listed Han dynasty famous classical formulas， it was found that the "Jiangxi method" served as a general guideline for administration according to Zhongjing's original text. This method allowed for flexible dosing based on the conversion of the ancient measurements to modern equivalents［13.8 g per Liang（两）］， ensuring the safe and effective medication of these formulas. After combing， it is found that although the dosage of single medicine is large in famous classical formulas from Han dynasty， the administration is flexible. The crude drug amount per administration serves as the foundational dose， with the frequency of administration adjusted flexibly according to the condition. This dosing approach becomes the key for the rational development of compound formulations of famous classical formulas. Based on the conclusions of the study， it is recommended that when developing compound formulations of famous classical formulas in Han dynasty， the original administration method and dosage should be respected. The original crude drug amount per administration should be considered as the daily foundational dose， with the frequency of administration described within a range（1 to N times per day， where N is the maximum number of administrations as per the original text）. The specific frequency of administration can be adjusted flexibly by clinical practitioners based on the individual condition. This approach should also be adopted in toxicological studies， where the dosage per administration serves as the basis for toxicity research， and the toxicity profile at the maximum administration frequency should be observed， providing guidance on the clinical safety range. Corresponding drug labels should provide information within a range to indicate toxicological risk intervals.

Textual Research on Principle of Dose Conversion in Ancient Famous Classical Formulas / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Due to the difference between the system of weights and measures， and the dosage of clinical prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine in various historical periods， the dosage and conversion standard of prescriptions in past dynasties are different. Therefore， when discounting the dosage of famous classical formulas， the principles of inheriting the essence， making the past serve the present， linking the past and the present， and forming a consensus should be followed， firstly， the dosage of the prescription was converted according to the weights and measures system of the past dynasties. If the converted dosage significantly exceeds the provisions of the 2020 edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia， then on the premise of ensuring that the proportion of the original prescription drug dosage remains unchanged， the conversion shall be based on expert consensus and drug safety evaluation. For drugs measured in non-standard units， a conversion range is provided based on comprehensive literature analysis and physical measurements. For the conversion of service volume， the original text was used as the basis for the conversion with reference to the measurement standards of different eras. If the original dosage is not clear， the converted dosage will be determined based on the historical evolution of the formula， referring to relevant ancient books， and combining modern applications. Eventually， the converting standard for famous classical formulas was determined as follows：during the Han and Tang dynasties， one Liang（两） was equivalent to 13.8 g and one Sheng（升） was equivalent to 200 mL， in the Tang dynasty， one Fen（分） was equivalent to 3.45 g， during the Song， Jin and Yuan dynasties， one Qian（钱） was equivalent to 4.13 g and one Zhan（盏） was equivalent to 300 mL， during the Ming and Qing dynasties， one Qian（钱） was equivalent to 3.73 g， and one Bei（杯） and one Zhong（盅） were equivalent to 200 mL. For drugs recorded in non-standard units of measurement， it is necessary to conduct actual measurements to determine their conversion standards based on comprehensive analysis to determine their origin. If necessary， different records of the dosage of drugs with the same or similar efficacy and indications in medical books of similar ages can be used to assist in determining the conversion standards. The analysis of the principle of dosage conversion for Chinese medicine is helpful for the clinical application and development of famous classical formulas.

Research progress in the route of administration and corresponding dosage form of triamcinolone acetonide / 中国药房

As a glucocorticoid drug with wide clinical application， triamcinolone acetonide can be administered by multiple routes， such as eye， nose， joint cavity， and skin， for the treatment of various local diseases such as arthritis， macular edema， rhinitis， and urticaria. As a drug with extremely low solubility in water， the dose form of triamcinolone acetonide is closely correlated with administration route and site. The dosage form of triamcinolone acetonide administered via injection（including joint cavity injection， vitreous injection， suprachoroidal injection， intramuscular injection） is mainly suspension， and the representative drugs include Kenalog-40®， Zilretta®， Triesence®， Xipere®， etc.； the dosage forms of nasal mucosal administration are mostly sprays， and the representative drug is Nasacort®； the dosage forms of oral mucosal administration are mostly patches， ointments and creams， and the representative drug is Oracort®； the dosage forms for transdermal administration are mostly ointments， creams and lotions， and the representative drugs include Trianex®， Teva-Triacomb®， etc. At present， the research on dosage forms of triamcinolone acetonide by various administration routes mainly focuses on the construction of delivery carriers， the addition of cosolvents or the use of new delivery tools.

Influence of the dilution method on the intraocular duration of C3F8 in vitrectomy for macular hole: a randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the injection of small amounts of undiluted C3F8 with the traditional gas injection in vitrectomy for macular hole treatment. Methods: This clinical trial included 26 individuals divided into two groups. Group 1 received an intravitreal injection of 0.9-1.0 mL of 100% C3F8, and Group 2 received 15-20 mL of 20% C3F8. Results: The median intraocular gas duration was 31 days in Group 1 and 34 in Group 2. The median letter gains in corrected distance visual acuity for the 26th postoperative week were 20 letters in Group 1 and 12.5 in Group 2. The median intraocular pressure was normal in both groups. Primary anatomical success was 11/13 in both groups. Conclusions: The use of C3F8 gas in a small undiluted volume is an alternative that slightly reduces the duration of the gas without negatively affecting the anatomical and visual response.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal hemodynamics: a longitudinal study / Efeitos do corticoide antenatal na hemodinâmica fetal: um estudo longitudinal

Abstract Objective: To study the effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration on fetal hemodynamics using longitudinal analysis of Doppler waveforms in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 30 fetuses at risk for preterm birth. Twenty-eight pregnant women were treated with betamethasone for fetal lung maturation. Doppler examinations of the UA and MCA were performed once before and three or eight times after corticosteroid administration. We used a Bayesian hierarchical linear model. Reference ranges were constructed, and associations between variables (gestational age and pre-eclampsia) were tested. Results: The mean maternal age, gestational age at betamethasone administration, and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 ± 5.89 years, 30.2 ± 2.59 weeks, and 32.9 ± 3.42 weeks, respectively. On UA Doppler, there was a significant decrease in the pulsatility index (PI) after corticosteroid administration, with a mean of 0.1147 (credibility interval: 0.03687-0.191) in three observations and a median of 0.1437 (credibility interval: 0.02509-0.2627) in eight observations. However, there was no significant change in the Doppler MCA PI, regardless of gestational age and the presence or absence of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: Although antenatal corticosteroid administration induced a significant decrease in the Doppler UA PI, we observed no change in the cerebral vasculature.

Resumo Objetivo: Estudar o efeito da administração antenatal de corticosteroides na hemodinâmica fetal mediante análise longitudinal do Doppler na artéria umbilical e artéria cerebral média (ACM). Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 30 fetos com risco de nascimento pré-termo. Vinte e oito gestantes foram tratadas com betametasona para maturação pulmonar fetal. Os exames de Doppler da AU e da ACM foram realizados uma vez antes e depois da administração de corticosteroides, num total de três ou oito observações. Utilizamos o modelo linear hierárquico com abordagem Bayesiana. Foram construídos os intervalos de referência e testadas associações entre variáveis (idade gestacional e pré-eclâmpsia). Resultados: A média ± desvio-padrão da idade materna, idade gestacional na administração de betametasona e idade gestacional no parto foram 32,6 ± 5,89 anos, 30,2 ± 2,59 semanas e 32,9 ± 3,42 semanas, respectivamente. No Doppler da AU, verificou-se diminuição significativa do índice de pulsatilidade (IP) com a terapêutica com corticosteroides (média: 0,1147 [0,03687-0,191]; em três observações) (mediana: 0,1437 [0,02509-0,2627]; em oito observações). No entanto, não foi observada alteração significativa no IP do Doppler da ACM, independentemente da idade gestacional e do diagnóstico de pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os corticosteroides pré-natais induziram diminuição significativa no IP do Doppler da AU, mas não houve alteração na vasculatura cerebral.

The use of the o-arm® or radioscope in spine surgery: systematic review with meta-analysis / O uso do o-arm® ou da radioscopia em cirurgias da coluna: revisão sistemática com meta-análise / El uso de o-arm® o radioscopia en cirugías espinales: una revisión sistemática con metaanálisis

ABSTRACT The great advances in using new devices and imaging systems in surgeries aim to reproduce an ideal and safe scenario for the surgeon, the team, and the patient. New systems and devices are constantly available to demonstrate and facilitate intraoperative navigation, thereby reducing errors and avoiding complications for the patient and staff. This study evaluates and compares using the O-arm® system and radioscopy in the freehand technique in spine surgeries. For this, searches were conducted in PubMed and Embase for randomized and non-randomized studies using the O-arm® system and radioscopy in spine surgery. Twenty-four studies were included and compared regarding procedure time, accuracy of implant positioning, effective radiation dose, safety, and efficacy. In one study, the O-arm® group showed a shorter surgical time when compared to the freehand technique (222.5 min. [SD=38.0] vs. 255.2 min. [SD=40.3], p=0.011, respectively). In two studies, the freehand technique resulted in a lower effective radiation dose for patients. In 12 studies, a higher incidence of complications was observed among patients undergoing surgery with the freehand technique. It was concluded that using the O-arm® is associated with a reduction in malposition of implants and more safety for instrumented procedures. Still, no evidence exists that its use can result in less surgical time. Level of Evidence I; Diagnostic Analysis and Studies, Investigation of a Diagnostic Test.

Resumo: O grande avanço do uso de novos dispositivos e sistemas de imagem nas cirurgias tem por objetivo reproduzir um cenário ideal e seguro para o cirurgião, a equipe e o paciente. Constantemente, novos sistemas e aparelhos estão disponíveis para demonstrar e facilitar a navegação intraoperatória, com isso procurando reduzir erros e evitar complicações para o paciente e para equipe. Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar e comparar o uso do sistema O-arm® e a utilização de radioescopia na técnica de freehand em cirurgias de coluna. Para isso, foram realizadas buscas nas bases PubMed e Embase de estudos randomizados e não randomizados sobre o uso em cirurgias de coluna do sistema O-arm® e radioscopia. Foram incluídos 24 estudos que foram comparados quanto ao tempo de procedimento, acurácia do posicionamento dos implantes, dose efetiva de radiação, segurança e eficácia. Um estudo o grupo O-arm® apresentou menor tempo cirúrgico quando comparado à técnica freehand (222,5 min. [DP=38,0] vs. 255,2 min. [DP=40,3], p=0,011, respectivamente). Em dois estudos, a técnica freehand resultou em menor dose efetiva de radiação para pacientes. Em 12 estudos observou-se maior incidência de complicações entre pacientes submetidos à cirurgia com técnica freehand. Concluiu-se que o uso do O-arm® está associado a uma redução da ocorrência do mal posicionamento dos implantes e mais segurança para os procedimentos instrumentados, porém sem evidências que seu uso possa resultar em menor tempo cirúrgico. Nível de Evidência I; Análises e Estudos Diagnósticos, Investigação de um Exame para Diagnóstico.

Resumen: El gran avance en el uso de nuevos dispositivos y sistemas de imagen en las cirugías pretende reproducir un escenario ideal y seguro para el cirujano, equipo y paciente. Constantemente se encuentran disponibles nuevos sistemas y dispositivos para demostrar y facilitar la navegación intraoperatoria, buscando así reducir errores y evitar complicaciones al paciente y al personal. Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar y comparar el uso del sistema O-arm® y el uso de radioscopia en la técnica de manos libres en cirugías de columna. Para ello se realizaron búsquedas en PubMed y Embase de estudios aleatorizados y no aleatorizados sobre el uso del sistema O-arm® y radioscopia. en cirugía de coluna. Se incluyeron y compararon 24 estudios con respecto al tiempo del procedimiento, precisión del posicionamiento del implante, dosis de radiación efectiva, seguridad y eficacia. En un estudio, el grupo O-arm® mostró tiempo quirúrgico más corto en comparación con técnica de mano alzada(222,5min [DE=38,0]vs. 255,2min[DE=40,3], p=0,011, respectivamente). En dos estudios, la técnica de mano alzada dio como resultado dosis de radiación efectiva más baja para los pacientes. En 12 estudios se observó mayor incidencia de complicaciones entre pacientes sometidos a cirugía con la técnica de mano alzada. Se concluyó que el uso del O-arm® está asociado con reducción en la ocurrencia de mala posición de los implantes y más seguridad para procedimientos instrumentados, pero sin evidencia de que su uso pueda resultar en menor tiempo quirúrgico. Descriptores:

Intraoral administration of probiotics and postbiotics: An overview of microorganisms and formulation strategies

Abstract The last decade provided significant advances in the understanding of microbiota and its role in human health. Probiotics are live microorganisms with proven benefits for the host and were mostly studied in the context of gut health, but they can also confer significant benefits for oral health, mainly in the treatment of gingivitis. Postbiotics are cell-free extracts and metabolites of microorganisms which can provide additional preventive and therapeutic value for human health. This opens opportunities for new preventive or therapeutic formulations for oral administration. The microorganisms that colonize the oral cavity, their role in oral health and disease, as well as the probiotics and postbiotics which could have beneficial effects in this complex environment were discussed. The aim of this study was to review, analyse and discuss novel probiotic and postbiotic formulations intended for oral administration that could be of great preventive and therapeutic importance. A special attention has been put on the formulation of the pharmaceutical dosage forms that are expected to provide new benefits for the patients and technological advantages relevant for industry. An adequate dosage form could significantly enhance the efficiency of these products.

Recent Advances in the development of Modified Release Tablets by amalgamating both Solubility Enhancement and Polymer Matrix Sintering Technologies.

Background: The fact that about 90 % of newly discovered API’s or new molecular entity(NME) have little or no aqueous solubility, causes a significant protest to the initialization of development and their scale up of dosage form in the Pharma Industry. Aqueous solubility of API’s has critical role in drug dissolution or availability of drug at the site of action or bioavailability, when a dosage form is administered orally.Objective: The object of this study is to formulate a modified release tablet dosage form of a poorly aqueous soluble drug, which not only have higher aqueous solubility or bioavailability but also have sustained release characteristics with high mechanical strength &their commercial viability. Numerous techniques are available for the solubility enhancement but all individual techniques have its own limitations for commercialization.Method: Aqueous solubility of drugs is improved by the known Solubility enhancement techniques like Micronization &Solid dispersions. After successful solubility enhancement, sustained release or modified release tablets of poorly aqueous soluble drug can be easily formulated into a suitable shape or size by using a known Polymer Matrix Sintering Technology with commercial feasibility. Micronization of poorly water-soluble drugs can be performed by Air Jet Mill or Ball Mill. Whereas Solid dispersion technique involves, molecular dispersion of poorly soluble drug in a suitable inert carrier, to form an amorphous and highly soluble compounds. Sintering Technology is defined as the bonding of adjacent particle surfaces in a mass of powder, or in compact, by the application of heat. Conventional sintering technique involves the heating of compact at a temperature below the melting point of the solid constituents in a controlled environment under atmospheric pressure.Results: Enhanced solubility of poorly soluble API’s by these proposed techniques is due to either conversion of crystalline compound in to amorphous form or reduction of particle size to its molecular level by the application of Micronization or solid dispersion techniques. The developed modified release tablets will show a sustained release characteristic due to Sintering aspect and provides enhanced solubility of BCS class II or IV drugs.Conclusion: Novel modified release tablets have been designed through consolidation of Solubility enhancement and Polymer Matrix Sintering technologies. Simultaneous exploitation of well-known and established approaches- Micronization (optimum particle size reduction) or solid dispersion, optional surfactant and Polymer Matrix Sintering Technique in the recent concept, produces significant enhancement of solubility of poorly water soluble API’s without compromising the content uniformity of dosage form and also provide a modified or sustained release characteristics with high mechanical strength. The release profile of drug can be easily tailored by using combination of both techniques where challenges of low solubility are prominent.

Dosis de radiación por radiografías y factores asociados en neonatos de la Unidad de Recién Nacidos del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia / X-ray radiation dose and associated factors in neonates from the newborn unit of Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia

Introducción. Las radiografías continúan usándose ampliamente, subestimando los riesgos. Esto sucede, especialmente, en las unidades de cuidado neonatal, lo que implica que los neonatos reciben una dosis de radiación ionizante mayor que los adultos. Objetivo. Cuantificar las dosis de radiación recibidas al tomar radiografías y evaluar los posibles factores asociados con el aumento de la dosis. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional de 160 neonatos de la Unidad de Recién Nacidos del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia. Se consideró como variable dependiente la dosis de entrada en piel por cada radiografía. Se hizo la caracterización de los pacientes, seguida de un análisis multivariado con regresión lineal múltiple para identificar factores asociados. Resultados. Se analizaron 160 pacientes y 492 radiografías en total. Entre los hallazgos más frecuentes, se encuentran: pacientes de sexo masculino (n=87; 54,4 %), nacimiento por cesárea (n=122; 76,3 %) e indicación de toma de radiografías por dificultad respiratoria (n=123; 24,9 %). El 1,8 % (n=9) de los pacientes no tenían una indicación para la toma de la radiografía. La radiografía más frecuente fue la de tórax (n=322; 65,4 %). La mayoría de las radiografías se tomaron con el equipo computarizado (n=352; 71,5 %) y no con el digital (n=140, 28,4 %). La mediana de la dosis de entrada en piel con el equipo computarizado fue de 0,112 mGy (0,022; 0,134 mGy) y, con el equipo digital, de 0,020 mGy (0,019, 0,022 mGy). Conclusiones. Se cuantificaron las dosis de radiación absorbida en neonatos, general y específica, con el equipo computarizado y el digital. Se identificaron mayores dosis con el equipo computarizado. Se reconoció la interacción entre el equipo computarizado con menores edades gestacionales corregidas como principal factor para el aumento de la dosis. Además, se reconoció la relación entre el equipo computarizado y una menor edad gestacional corregida, como principal factor para una mayor dosis.

Introduction. Radiographs are still widely used, underestimating the risks. This situation is frequent in neonatal care units, generating radiation doses than in adults. Objective. To quantify the received radiation doses when performing radiographs on neonates and the possible factors associated with higher doses. Materials and methods. We performed an observational study of 160 neonates from the newborn unit of the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia. We considered the input dose of each radiograph as the dependent variable. Patients were characterized and a multivariate analysis with multiple linear regression was performed to identify associated factors. Results. We analyzed 160 newborns and 492 radiographs. The most frequent findings were male patients (n=87, 54.4%), cesarean delivery (n=122, 76.3%), and radiograph indication for respiratory distress (n=123, 24.9%). One-point eight percent of the patients (n=9) did not have radiograph indication. The most frequently taken radiograph was chest (322, 65.4%). Most radiographs were taken with a computerized equipment (n=352, 71.5%), compared to a digital one (n=140, 28.4%). The median input dose with computerized equipment was 0.112 mGy (0.022, 0.134 mGy), and with the digital equipment was 0.020 mGy (0.019, 0.022 mGy). Conclusions. The general and specific absorbed radiation doses were measured in neonates with a computerized and a digital equipment. We identified higher doses with the computerized equipment. In addition, it was recognized the correlation between computerized radiography equipment with lower corrected gestational ages as the main factor for dose increase.

Prospective evaluation of the effectiveness of combined treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion with intravitreal bevacizumab and dexamethasone implants / Estudo intervencionista prospectivo para avaliar a eficácia da associação do bevacizumabe intravítreo ao implante de dexametasona para edema macular secundário à oclusão da veia retiniana

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of in­­­travitreal bevacizumab injections following a single dexamethasone implant in the treatment of macular edema secondary to branch and central retinal vein occlusion. Methods: This was a prospective interventional non-comparative study, 44 eyes of patients with naïve macular edema related to branch and central retinal vein occlusion were treated with a dexamethasone implant. Patients were followed-up at four-week intervals from the second to the sixth month. If persistent or recurrent macular edema occurred during this period, the patient was treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections on an as-needed basis. The outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness changes. Results: The mean best-corrected visual acuity changed from 0.97 ± 0.33 LogMAR at baseline to 0.54 ± 0.40 at the six-month post-implant examination (p<0.00001). Improvement ≥3 Snellen lines were seen in 20 eyes (45.54%). The mean central macular thickness at baseline was 670.25 ± 209.9 microns. This had decreased to 317.43 ± 112.68 microns at the six-month follow-up (p<0.00001). The mean number of intravitreal bevacizumab injections received in the six months post-implant was 2.32. The mean time from dexamethasone implant to first anti-VEGF injection was 3.45 months. Conclusions: Intravitreal bevacizumab injections following a single dexamethasone implant were found to improve best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness in patients with macular edema due to branch and central retinal vein occlusion at six months, with few intravitreal injections required.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da combinação de in­jeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em olhos com edema macular secundário à oclusão de ramo e da veia central da retina após um único implante de dexametasona. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo prospectivo intervencionista não comparativo com 44 olhos de pacientes com edema macular relacionado à oclusão de ramo e veia central da retina, sem tratamento prévio e tratados com um único implante de dexametasona, que foram acompanhados em intervalos de quatro semanas do segundo ao sexto mês. Se fosse constatado edema macular persistente ou recorrente durante esse período, os pacientes eram tratados com injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em um regime ajustado conforme a necessidade. Foram estudadas a melhor acuidade visual corrigida e alterações da espessura macular central. Resultados: A média da melhor acuidade visual corrigida mudou de 0,97 ± 0,33 LogMAR iniciais para 0,54 ± 0,40 no exame de 6 meses (p<0,00001). Vinte olhos (45,54%) melhoraram 3 linhas de Snellen ou mais. A média da espessura macular central inicial foi de 670,25 ± 209,9 μm e diminuiu para 317,43 ± 112,68 μm na visita de 6 meses (p<0,00001). O número médio de injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em 6 meses foi de 2,32 e o tempo médio entre o implante de dexametasona e a primeira injeção de anti-VEGF foi de 3,45 meses. Conclusão: Injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe após um único implante de dexametasona podem proporcionar um aumento da melhor acuidade visual corrigida e diminuição da espessura macular central aos 6 meses em pacientes com edema macular devido à oclusão de ramo e da veia central da retina, com poucas injeções intravítreas.

Formulation and evaluation of Buccal mucoadhesive tablets of diclofenac sodium using 23 factorial designs

Buccal tablets

Diclofenac sodium

Drug release

Mucoadhesion

Mucoadhesive tablets

Release kinetics

Radiation safety measures in diagnostic nuclear medicine, based on the potential radiation dose emitted by radioactive patients / Cuidados de radioproteção em medicina nuclear diagnóstica baseados no potencial de dose de radiação emitida por pacientes radioativos

Abstract Objective: To measure the potential radiation dose emitted by patients who have recently undergone diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures, in order to establish optimal radiation safety measures for such procedures. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the radiation doses emitted by 175 adult patients in whom technetium-99m, iodine-131, and fluorine-18 radionuclides were administered for bone, kidney, heart, brain, and whole-body scans, as measured with a radiation detector. Those values served as the basis for evaluating whole-body radiopharmaceutical clearance, as well as the risk for the exposure of others to radiation, depending on the time elapsed since administration of the radiopharmaceutical. Results: The mean time to clearance of the radiopharmaceuticals administered, expressed as the effective half-life, ranged from 1.18 ± 0.30 h to 11.41 ± 0.02 h, and the mean maximum cumulative radiation dose at 1.0 m from the patients was 149.74 ± 56.72 µSv. Even at a distance of 0.5 m, the cumulative dose was found to be only half and one tenth of the limits established for exposure of the general public and family members/caregivers (1.0 mSv and 5.0 mSv per episode, respectively). Conclusion: Cumulative radiation doses emitted by patients immediately after diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures are considerably lower than the limits established by the International Commission on Radiological Protection and the International Atomic Energy Agency, and precautionary measures to avoid radiation exposure are therefore not required after such procedures.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi levantar o potencial de dose de radiação emitida por pacientes em procedimentos diagnósticos, visando a estabelecer cuidados de radioproteção mais otimizados. Materiais e Métodos: Taxas de dose de radiação emitidas por 175 pacientes administrados com os radionuclídeos 99mTc, 131I e 18F para cintilografias óssea, renal, cardíaca, cerebral e corpo inteiro, foram mensuradas com um detector de radiação, servindo para avaliar o clareamento do radiofármaco no organismo e risco de exposição após administração dos radiofármacos. Resultados: O clareamento, representado pela meia-vida efetiva, variou de 1,18 ± 0,30 h até 11,41 ± 0,02 h e a dose de radiação máxima acumulada oferecida pelos pacientes a 1,0 m foi de 149,74 ± 56,72 µSv. Mesmo para distâncias de 0,5 m, as doses estimadas foram, respectivamente, duas e dez vezes inferiores ao nível de restrição para o público geral (1,0 mSv) e exposição médica (5,0 mSv/episódio). Conclusão: Doses de radiação oferecidas por pacientes em procedimentos diagnósticos são inferiores aos níveis de restrição recomendados pela International Commission on Radiological Protection e International Atomic Energy Agency, e assim, cuidados de radioproteção são geralmente desnecessários.

Dosimetric comparison of intensity-modulated photon radiotherapy and intensity-modulated proton radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer / 肿瘤研究与临床

Objective:To investigate the difference of dose distribution between intensity-modulated photon radiotherapy (IMRT) and intensity-modulated proton radiotherapy (IMPT) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.Methods:The clinical data of 8 patients with stage Ⅱ-Ⅲ non-small cell lung cancer who received radiotherapy in Ion Medical center of the First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China from November 2020 to April 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. IMRT and IMPT radiotherapy plans were created for each patient separately, the main evaluation indicators were targeted area dose distribution parameters [homogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI) and the percent volume of volume wrapped by 95% and 100% of prescription dose profile in the targeted area (V 95% and V 100%)], and the average dose (D mean) to the organ at risk and the percent volume of a certain relative biological effect (RBE) dose exposure [D mean, V 5 Gy(RBE) and V 20 Gy(RBE) of ipsilateral lung, D mean, V 5 Gy(RBE) and V 20 Gy(RBE) of bilateral lung, D mean, V 30 Gy(RBE) and V 40 Gy(RBE) of heart, maximum dose (D max) of spinal cord, and D mean of esophageal]. Results:In comparison with IMRT, IMPT reduced the levels of dose parameters in bilateral lung, ipsilateral lung, spinal cord, esophagus, and heart with statistically significant differences (all P < 0.05), especially in D mean of bilateral lung [(4.1±1.8) Gy (RBE) vs. (6.9±1.9) Gy (RBE)], V 5 Gy(RBE) [(15.9±7.1) % vs. (28.5±8.6)%], V 20 Gy(RBE) [(7.4±3.5)% vs. (10.1±3.5)%], and D mean of ipsilateral lung [(9.1±4.5) Gy (RBE) vs. (11.9±3.3) Gy (RBE)], all decreased significantly (all P < 0.001), but the differences in the levels of targeted area dose distribution parameters between them were not statistically significant (all P > 0.05). Conclusions:For patients with non-small cell lung cancer, IMPT is superior to IMRT in the protection of bilateral lung, ipsilateral lung, spinal cord, esophagus and heart.

Effects of different moxibustion time on knee cartilage morphology and the expression of TNF-α and IL-10 in rats with knee osteoarthritis / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective:To observe the effects of different moxibustion time on cartilage morphology,tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α and interleukin(IL)-10 of the knee joint in rats with knee osteoarthritis(KOA),and to explore the best treatment time of moxibustion for KOA.Methods:Healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into a blank group,a model group,a 15-minute-moxibustion group,a 30-minute-moxibustion group,and a 60-minute-moxibustion group,with 10 rats in each group.Except for the blank group,the KOA model was established in all groups by injecting sodium iodoacetate solution into the knee joint cavity of rats.Rats in the 15-minute-moxibustion group,the 30-minute-moxibustion group,and the 60-minute-moxibustion group were all treated with mild moxibustion intervention for 15 min,30 min,and 60 min,respectively at Neixiyan(EX-LE4)and Dubi(ST35)points near the patella,3 times a week for 4 weeks,12 times in total.Rats in the blank group and the model group were fixed for 30 min without moxibustion intervention.Macroscopic observation for the smoothness of knee cartilage surface was performed after the intervention.Hematoxylin-eosin staining,toluidine blue staining,and Mankin score were used to evaluate the pathological changes in the cartilage.The expression levels of TNF-α and IL-10 in the serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results:Compared with the blank group,the articular cartilage surface in the model group was rough,the chondrocyte arrangement was irregular,the Mankin score and the serum TNF-α expression were significantly increased(P＜0.05),while the expression of serum IL-10 was significantly decreased(P＜0.05).Compared with the model group,the articular cartilage surface was smoother,the chondrocytes were arranged neatly,the Mankin score and serum TNF-α expression level were significantly lower in the three moxibustion intervention groups(P＜0.05);the serum IL-10 level in the 30-minute-moxibustion group and the 60-minute-moxibustion group was increased significantly(P＜0.05).Compared with the 15-minute-moxibustion group,the articular cartilage surface in the 30-minute-moxibustion group and the 60-minute-moxibustion group was smoother,the chondrocyte arrangement was more regular,the Mankin score and the serum TNF-α level were decreased significantly(P＜0.05),and the serum IL-10 level was increased(P＜0.05).There was no significant difference in the serum TNF-α or IL-10 level between the 30-minute-moxibustion group and the 60-minute-moxibustion group(P＞0.05).Conclusion:Moxibustion can obviously improve the morphology and structure of KOA articular cartilage,protect articular cartilage,inhibit cartilage inflammation,and delay KOA cartilage degeneration.Moxibustion's effect is closely related to moxibustion time;the therapeutic effect of the 30-minute-moxibustion and the 60-minute-moxibustion is better than that of the 15-minute-moxibustion.

Efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban in different doses for the treatment of isolated distal deep vein thrombosis / 中华普通外科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of of rivaroxaban for different doses in the treatment of isolated distal deep vein thrombosis.Methods:The clinical data of 853 patients of isolated distal deep vein thrombosis attending Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from Jan 2018 to Dec 2020 was retrospectively analyzed.Results:Thrombotic recurrence rate increased with increasing follow-up in the standard and low dose groups, and it was significantly lower in the standard dose group than in the low dose group (HR=0.44, 95% CI: 0.25-0.78, P=0.005) with most thrombosis occurring within the first year of follow-up. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of major bleeding events (HR=1.70,95%CI 0.56-5.14, P=0.530) and the incidence of clinically relevant non-major bleeding events was significantly higher in the standard dose group than in the low dose group (HR=2.36, 95%CI 1.26-4.44, P=0.020). Subgroup analysis on anticoagulation duration found when anticoagulation duration was longer than 1.5 months, the risk of thrombosis was lower in the standard dose group than the low dose group (1.5-3 months:HR=0.11, 95%CI 0.01-0.87, >3 months: HR=0.19, 95%CI 0.04-0.95), there was an interaction between anticoagulation duration and dose ( P=0.007). Conclusions:Based on the risk of thrombosis recurrence and bleeding events, the standard dose of rivaroxaban (20 mg qd) is recommended for patients with isolated distal deep vein thrombosis, and the anticoagulant duration should be maintained for 1.5 months or more.

Reasonable selection of antiviral agents for herpes zoster / 中华皮肤科杂志

Antiviral treatment is the core part in the treatment of herpes zoster. Based on the latest studies, consensus and guidelines, this article aims to provide a basis and reference for clinicians to make a reasonable choice of types and doses of antiviral agents. Valacyclovir, a precursor of acyclovir with high oral bioavailability and great convenience of administration, is generally the first choice of oral antiviral agents; for some special cases, such as immunocompromised patients, intravenous drips of acyclovir should be selected when appropriate. Brivudine is often a better choice for patients with severe renal insufficiency; famciclovir or other antiviral agents should be considered for patients resistant to acyclovir; for immunocompromised patients resistant to acyclovir, intravenous drips of foscarnet sodium can be an option. Oral antiviral agents should be administered at adequate doses. Selecting appropriate antiviral agents and their doses can effectively relieve acute symptoms of patients and reduce the probability of postherpetic neuralgia.

Role of low-carbohydrate diet in type 1 diabetes / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Low-carbohydrate diet is becoming popular recently. It requires carbohydrate intake lower than 130 g/d(or <26% of total energy intake) while fat and protein intake are not defined. Low-carbohydrate diet contributes to better glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes: lowering HbA 1C and glycemic variability, and improving time in range(TIR). Low-carbohydrate diet reduces insulin dosage in type 1 diabetic patients and does not increase the risks of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. This review summarized the research evidence of low-carbohydrate diet to explore the role and safety in disease management.

Detection rate of pulmonary nodules by CT scan at different doses and application value of artificial intelligence assistance / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the detection rate of pulmonary nodules (PN) by CT scan at different doses and the application value of artificial intelligence(AI) system assistance.Methods:From October 2019 to October 2021, 210 patients with PN in Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, were retrospectively selected, and they were divided into the study group (106 cases) and the control group (104 cases) by CT scan at different doses. The control group used the conventional average dose (169 mAs) CT scan, the study group used an average low-dose (54 mAs) CT scan. The PN detection rate of different gender, age, body mass index (BMI) between the two groups were compared. The morphological characteristics, radiation dose, CT image quality between the two groups were compared. The diagnostic efficiency of radiologists and AI system was compared.Results:The detection rate of PN in the study group and the control group had no significant difference: 73.58% (78/106) vs. 80.77%(84/104), χ2 = 1.54, P>0.05. The detection rate of PN with different gender, age group and BMI in the two groups had no significant differences ( P>0.05). The diameter of nodules and the rates of calcification, cavitation, bronchial sign, lobar sign, burr sign and pleural adhesion sign in the two groups had no significant differences ( P>0.05). The mean effective tubular bulb dose, length product of radiation dose, total tubular bulb dose, radiation volume dose index in the study group were higher than those in the control group: (46.15 ± 7.38) mAs vs. (104.39 ± 10.53) mAs, (169.24 ± 19.77) mGy·cm vs. (427.17 ± 43.58) mGy·cm, (972.65 ± 58.34) mAs vs. (2 861.26 ± 181.37) mAs, (3.55 ± 1.16) mGy vs. (8.95 ± 2.07) mGy, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). The excellent, good, acceptable, poor of 1.0 mm image quality in the study group were 26, 60, 18, 2, and in the control group were 32, 64, 8, 0, there was statistical difference ( u =1.71, P = 0.087). The excellent, good, acceptable, poor of maximum intensity projection (MIP) image quality in the study group were 58, 42, 6, 0 and in the control group were 70, 34, 0, 0, there was statistical difference ( u = 1.81, P = 0.070). The detection rate of PN by AI low-dose CT scan was higher than that of radiologists: 88.68%(94/106) vs. 73.58%(78/106), there was statistical difference ( χ2 = 7.89, P = 0.005). Conclusions:The low-dose CT chest scans for PN, the results of detection rate, morphological characteristics, CT image quality are basically the same as those of conventional-dose CT chest scans, and can greatly reduce the radiation dose, which is more suitable for PN screening, and combined with AI system can significantly improve the detection rate of PN.