Otimização de método extrativo para raízes de Arctium lappa L / Extractive method optimization for Arctium lappa l. Roots / Optimización de un método de extracción de raíces de Arctium lappa L

Arctium lappa L. é indicada no Formulário de Fitoterápicos da Farmacopeia Brasileira para o tratamento de distúrbios urinários leves. Estudos já demonstraram o potencial antioxidante, anti-inflamatório e antidiabético deste extrato, onde foram identificados fenóis, lignanas, taninos e flavonoides. O objetivo deste trabalho foi otimizar o método extrativo de raízes de A. lappa. Realizou-se o preparo de extratos por diferentes métodos: Ultrassom, Soxhlet, maceração e turbo extração. A otimização foi realizada por turbo extração seguindo um planejamento fatorial 23, empregando como fatores: teor alcoólico, concentração da matéria prima e tempo de extração. Os extratos foram avaliados quanto ao resíduo seco, teores de fenóis e flavonoides, e atividade antioxidante. Com relação ao resíduo seco, e aos teores de fenóis e flavonoides, os métodos de ultrassom e turbo extração demonstraram melhor poder extrativo. Devido ao menor tempo e custo operacional, a otimização foi realizada por turbo extração, e o extrato otimizado foi obtido utilizando álcool 60%, em proporção matéria prima solvente 1:10 e tempo de extração de 15 minutos. Estas análises poderão nortear futuros testes de transposição de método para escala industrial, diminuindo mão de obra, tempo e custos, visando obter produtos fitoterápicos mais eficientes, com valor acessível à população.

Arctium lappa L. is indicated in the Brazilian Pharmacopeia Herbal Medicines Form for the treatment of mild urinary disorders. Studies have already demonstrated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic potential of this extract, where phenols, lignans, tannins and flavonoids were identified. The objective of this work was to optimize the extractive method of A. lappa roots. Extracts were prepared by different methods: Ultrasound, Soxhlet, maceration and vortical extraction. The optimization was performed by vortical extraction following a 23 full factorial design, using as factors: alcohol content, drug concentration and extraction time. The extracts were evaluated for dry residue, phenols and flavonoids contents, and antioxidant activity. Regarding the dry residue, and the phenols and flavonoids contents, the ultrasound and vortical extraction methods showed better extractive power. Due to the lower operating time and cost, the optimization was performed by vortical extraction, and the optimized extract was obtained using 60% alcohol, in a 1:10 drug solvent ratio and extraction time of 15 minutes. These assessments guide the future tests of transposition of the method to an industrial scale, reducing manpower, time and costs, aiming to obtain more efficient phytotherapic products, with affordable value for the population.

Arctium lappa L. está indicado en la Formulacao de Fitoterápicos da Farmacopeia Brasileira para el tratamiento de trastornos urinarios leves. Los estudios han demostrado el potencial antioxidante, antiinflamatorio y antidiabético de este extracto, donde se identificaron fenoles, lignanos, taninos y flavonoides. El objetivo de este trabajo fue optimizar el método extractivo de las raíces de A. lappa. Los extractos se prepararon por diferentes métodos: Ultrasonido, Soxhlet, maceración y turboextracción. La optimización se realizó mediante turboextracción siguiendo una planificación factorial de 23, empleando como factores: tenor alcohólico, concentración de materia prima y tiempo de extracción. Se evaluaron los extractos para determinar el residuo seco, el contenido de fenoles y flavonoides y la actividad antioxidante. En cuanto al contenido de residuo seco, fenoles y flavonoides, los métodos de extracción por ultrasonidos y turbo demostraron un mejor poder de extracción. Debido al menor tiempo y coste operativo, la optimización se realizó mediante turboextracción, y el extracto optimizado se obtuvo utilizando alcohol 60%, en proporción disolvente-materia 1:10 y tiempo de extracción de 15 minutos. Estos análisis podrán orientar futuros ensayos de transposición del método para escala industrial, reduciendo mano de obra, tiempo y costes, con el objetivo de obtener productos fitoterapéuticos más eficientes, con valor accesible para la población.

Bond Strength Evaluation of Bulk- fill Composites to Dentin Under Different Surface Treatments / Evaluación de la resistencia adhesiva de las resinas bulk-fill a la dentina con diferentes tratamientos de superficie

ABSTRACT: Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare the shear bond strength of three high-viscosity bulk-fill composite resins applied as single layers of 4mm thickness and of one microhybrid composite resin applied incrementally with a thickness of 2mm on dentin surfaces prepared with different surface preparation methods. Materials and Methods: A total of 132 caries-free human molars whose dentines had been exposed were used. Three groups, each containing 44 teeth, were formed. The acid group was etched with 32% phosphoric acid; laser group was etched with Er, Cr; YSGG laser and the control group was prepared with silicon carbid paper. Following the application of bonding agent, composite resin materials were applied on teeth using teflon moulds of 4x4mm. The samples were then subjected to shear bond strength tests. Two-way variance analysis and Tukey HSD multiple comparison test were applied on collected data. Results: There was a significant difference between surface treatment methods used regarding shear bond strength (P0.05). Conclusions: Laser etching of the dentin tissues is not as effective as acid etching. Bulk-fill composites had similar effects compared with conventional composite resins with regard to bonding strength. More in vitro studies supported with clinical data are required to investigate the performance of bulk-fill composites and laser.

RESUMEN: Propósito: El objetivo de este estudio es comparar la resistencia adhesiva al cizallamiento de tres resinas compuestas de relleno de alta viscosidad aplicadas como capas individuales de 4 mm de espesor y de una resina compuesta microhíbrida aplicada de forma incremental con un espesor de 2mm en superficies de dentina preparadas con diferentes métodos de preparación de la superficie. Materiales y métodos: Se utilizaron un total de 132 molares humanos sin caries cuyas dentinas habían sido expuestas. Se formaron tres grupos, cada uno con 44 dientes. El grupo ácido se grabó con ácido fosfórico al 32%; el grupo láser se grabó con Er, Cr; el láser YSGG y el grupo de control se preparó con papel de carburo de silicio. Después de la aplicación del agente adhesivo, se aplicaron materiales de resina compuesta en los dientes utilizando moldes de teflón de 4x4mm. A continuación, las muestras se sometieron a pruebas de resistencia adhesiva al cizallamiento. Se aplicó el análisis de varianza bidireccional y la prueba de comparación múltiple Tukey HSD a los datos recogidos. Resultados: Hubo una diferencia significativa entre los métodos de tratamiento de superficie utilizados en cuanto a la resistencia adhesiva al cizallamiento (P0,05). Conclusiones: El grabado láser de los tejidos de la dentina no es tan eficaz como el grabado al ácido. Las resinas de relleno bulk-fill tuvieron efectos similares en comparación con las resinas compuestas convencionales en lo que respecta a la rsistencia adhesiva. Se necesitan más estudios in vitro apoyados con datos clínicos para investigar el rendimiento de los composites de relleno y el láser.

The application of magnetic resonance imaging-guided microwave ablation for lung cancer

Context: It is necessary to explore a minimally invasive, effective, and efficient treatment for those lung cancer patients who are poor candidates for surgery. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the application of microwave ablation (MWA) in the treatment of lung cancer. Settings and Design: A total of 43 patients with 44 pulmonary lesions were examined following identical procedures before being randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group consists of 17 patients with a total of 18 pulmonary lesions, while the control group consists of 26 patients with a total of 26 pulmonary lesions. Materials and Methods: The experimental group was treated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided MWA while the control group was treated using computer tomography (CT)-guided MWA. A transverse relaxation time-turbo spin echo (T2-TSE) sequence was used for signal collection in the experimental group to determine puncture location and microwave needle position while T2-TSE, T1-turbo field echo, and diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) sequences were used for timely efficacy evaluation. Whereas in the control group, CT axial scanning was performed to serve similar purposes. Statistical Analysis Used: A nonparametric Wilcoxon test, median (M [25%, 75%]). Results: All of the 44 lesions were successfully located on the first attempt. The mean time for scanning and locating lung lesions under MRI and CT guidance were 64.53 and 42.96 min, the mean times of positioning were 12 and 18 min, and the mean durations of MWA were 12.48 and 15.06 min, respectively. Conclusions: As a minimally invasive method for treating lung tumors, MRI-guided MWA requires fewer localization scans, a shorter MWA duration, no radiation, real-time observation of the curative effect, and it prevents overtreatment

The value of turbo spin-echo diffusion weighted imaging in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of turbo spin-echo（TSE） diffusion weighted imaging（DWI） in temporal bone cholesteatoma. @*Method@#A prospective evaluated of 76 patients with suspected sacral cholesteatoma was performed using a Philips Ingenia 3.0T superconducting magnetic resonance scanner and a 32-channel head coil with turbo spin-echo diffusion weighted imaging（TSE-DWI） sequence and conventional magnetic resonance scan, and underwent surgery within the next two weeks. The pathological result is the gold standard, and the imaging diagnosis and surgery are performed. The intraoperative observation and pathological results were compared. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TSE-DWI sequence in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma were calculated. @*Result@#Of the 76 patients with suspected temporal bone cholesteatoma, TSE-DWI scan was performed, 44 cases were diagnosed as cholesteatoma and 32 cases were non-cholesteatoma. Based on the pathology results, 46 cases were diagnosed as cholesteatoma, 30 cases were non-cholesteatoma. The accuracy of TSW-DWI sequence in the diagnosis of cholesteatoma was 89.47%, 3 cases were false negative and 5 cases was false positive. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TSE-DWI in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma were 89.13%, 90.00%, 93.18%, and 84.38%, respectively. @*Conclusion@#The TSE-DWI sequence has high signal-to-noise ratio and can improve the diagnostic accuracy and specificity. TSE-DWI sequence is of great value in clinical diagnosis and treatment.

The value of turbo spin-echo diffusion weighted imaging in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of turbo spin-echo（TSE） diffusion weighted imaging（DWI） in temporal bone cholesteatoma. A prospective evaluated of 76 patients with suspected sacral cholesteatoma was performed using a Philips Ingenia 3.0T superconducting magnetic resonance scanner and a 32-channel head coil with turbo spin-echo diffusion weighted imaging（TSE-DWI） sequence and conventional magnetic resonance scan, and underwent surgery within the next two weeks. The pathological result is the gold standard, and the imaging diagnosis and surgery are performed. The intraoperative observation and pathological results were compared. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TSE-DWI sequence in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma were calculated. Of the 76 patients with suspected temporal bone cholesteatoma, TSE-DWI scan was performed, 44 cases were diagnosed as cholesteatoma and 32 cases were non-cholesteatoma. Based on the pathology results, 46 cases were diagnosed as cholesteatoma, 30 cases were non-cholesteatoma. The accuracy of TSW-DWI sequence in the diagnosis of cholesteatoma was 89.47%, 3 cases were false negative and 5 cases was false positive. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TSE-DWI in the diagnosis of temporal bone cholesteatoma were 89.13%, 90.00%, 93.18%, and 84.38%, respectively. The TSE-DWI sequence has high signal-to-noise ratio and can improve the diagnostic accuracy and specificity. TSE-DWI sequence is of great value in clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Comparison on three-dimensional MR cholangiopancreatography with breath-hold gradient-spin echo and respiratory gated triggering turbo-spin echo / 中国医学影像技术

Objective: To compare the image quality of three-dimensional MR cholangiopancreatography with breath-hold gradient-spin echo (3D-Grase-MRCP) and respiratory gated triggering turbo-spin echo (3D-Tse-MRCP). Methods: Totally 96 patients with suspicious pancreatic or biliary tract diseases underwent 3D-Grase-MRCP and 3D-Tse-MRCP scanning. The image quality scores, lesion display and contrast noise ratio (CNR)of the common bile duct were compared and analyzed between 3D-Grase-MRCP and 3D-Tse-MRC. The 3D-Grase-MRCP images were divided into hold-breath group and poor hold-breath group, and the image quality scores were compared between 2 groups. Results: CNR of common bile duct on 3D-Tse-MRCP images (357.08 [209.73, 594.38]) were higher than that on 3D-Grase-MRCP (256.14 [141.54, 417.87],Z=-3.01, P<0.05). The imaging scores on 3D-Grase-MRCP of the gallbladder, ductus cysticus, common bile duct and intrahepatic bile duct were higher than those on 3D-Tse-MRCP (all P<0.01). 3D-Grase-MRCP showed gallstones (n=42) and cystic duct stones (n=7) more clearly than 3D-Tse-MRCP (both P<0.05). Imaging scores of gallbladder, ductus cysticus, common bile duct, pancreatic duct and intrahepatic bile duct on 3D-Grase-MRCP in hold-breath group (n=68) were higher than those in poor hold-breath group (n=28) (all P<0.01). Conclusion: The imaging quality and lesion display of breath-hold 3D-Grase-MRCP sequence are superior to those of respiratory gated triggering 3D-Tse-MRCP sequence with significantly shortened scanning time, which is expected to be used as a new method for MRCP.

The value of Turbo inversion recovery magnitude (TIRM) magnetic resonance neurography for sacral plexus injury / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective To evaluate the capability of Turbo inversion recovery magnitude (TIRM) magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) in the diagnosie of sacral plexus injury by comparing MRN findings with surgical results.Methods Ten patients with sacral plexus injury confirmed surgically underwent conventional T1WI,T2WI,TIRM and coronal TIRM MRN before operations from June,2011 to December,2012.The MRI data and surgical data were analyzed retrospectively to observe nerve injury.Results The coronal TIRM MRN images displayed 93 trunks of sacral plexus,of which 37 were confirmed injury by operation.The MRI findings were as follows:6 trunks involved continuous nerves,but with thickening and blurred margin,as well as abnormal high signal intensity;22 trunks were continuous,but with distortion,stiffness and adhesion accompanied by heterogeneous signal intensity and structural disorder;3 trunks showed complete loss of continuity,absence of normal signal,accompanied by retraction;and 3 trunks involved formation of traumatic neurofibroma.The coincidence of injured nerve trunks diagnosed by MRN with surgical findings amounts to 81.08％ (30/37).Conclusion MR with coronal TIRM imaging is effective in the diagnosis and depiction of sacral plexus injury,therefore it can be used as conventional sequence in sacral plexus examination to detect sacral plexus avulsion.

Determination of Nitroimidazoles and Their Metabolites Residues in Honey by TurboFlow Online Purification-Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Sepctrometry and Istopes Dilution Technique / 分析化学

A TurboFlow ( TF ) online purification-ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric method was developed for the determination of nitroimidazoles and their metabolites ( ornidazole, IPZ, MNZ, MNZOH, DMZ, RNZ, IPZOH and HMMNI) in honey. The honey sample was extracted by H2 O containing 0. 1% formic acid solution. Then, the extraction solution was analyzed by TF-UPLC-MS/MS. The main factors influencing the purification efficiency including TF column, mobile phases and elution solutions were optimized. The compounds were detected by selective reaction monitoring ( SRM) in positive ion mode electrospray ionization ( ESI+) . The linear range of the method ranged from 0 . 1 to 50μg/L for nitroimidazoles and their metabolites, with the correlation coefficient ( R2 ) of over 0. 997. The limits of quantification were 0. 1 μg/kg for ornidazole, IPZ, 0. 2 μg/kg for MNZ, MNZOH, DMZ, RNZ and IPZOH, and 1. 0 μg/kg for HMMNI, respectively. The recoveries were in the range of 73. 7% to 116. 4% at four spiked levels with the relative standard deviations ranged from 1. 1% to 9. 1% in honey samples. The results indicate that the developed method is simple, efficient and precise, and can be used for the determination of nitroimidazoles and their metabolites in the actual honey samples.

MR findings and comparative study of MR sequences in several twin pregnancy with comorbidities / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To compare the applications of half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo(HASTE)sequence and true fast imaging with steady state precession(True FISP)sequence for the delineation of structures and diseases in several twin pregnancy with comorbidities and to explore the clinical value of two series of fast imaging for MRI of fetus.Methods 27 twin preg-nancy women with comorbidities were imaged with HASTE and True FISP sequences.All images were statistically analyzed in re-spect of imaging qualities and artifacts.MR signs of fetal brain were analysized.Results There were abnormal changes in brains in 7 of 27 cases.Both sequences could demonstrate the structures and lesions of the fatus.Imaging quality scores of HASTE were higher than that of True FISP,but with more respiratory blurring.Conclusion There might be varying abnormalities in central nervous system in twin pregnancy with comorbidities.Combining the demonstration abilities of HASTE and True FISP is needed when de-tecting fetus lesions,especially the brain.

Significados del consumo de frutas y hortalizas en dos comunidades de zona rural del municipio de Turbo, Urabá Antioqueño / The meanings of eating fruits and vegetables in two rural communities of municipality of Turbo, Uraba Antioqueño

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo: interpretar el significado atribuido al consumo de frutas y hortalizas en un grupo de familias de Turbo. El enfoque metodológico fue cualitativo, el cual permitió comprender las realidades alimentarias de los sujetos que vivencian la situación y en los escenarios y contextos donde ocurrieron los hechos. El método utilizado fue la etnografía; las técnicas para recabar la información fueron la entrevista cualitativa, el grupo de discusión y la observación. Hallazgos: en las familias participantes quienes más consumen frutas y hortalizas son las madres y los niños menores de nueve años, éstas son también quienes enseñan a los menores a consumir dichos alimentos. A las frutas y hortalizas les atribuyen propiedades en la prevención y curación de enfermedades, principalmente respiratorias y del tracto gastrointestinal.

The present study aimed at interpreting the meaning of fruits and vegetables consumption for a group of families of Turbo. The methodological approach was qualitative, which allowed the understanding of food realities through the subjects who experience the situations, scenarios and contexts where the studied facts occurred. The method used was ethnography; the techniques for gathering information were qualitative interviewing, group discussion, and observations. Findings: Mothers and children under nine are the ones who eat more fruits and vegetables among families; mothers are also those who teach the children to consume such foods. Fruits and vegetables are regarded as helps to prevent and cure diseases, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal ones.

An application of moderately T2-weighted 3D TSE-FS pulse sequence to MRI myelography in investigation of patient with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

Conventional MRI and MRI-myelography studies were classified as positive when morphological alterations noted correlated with clinical presentations. This study was to analyse the usefulness of MRI myelography of the cervical spine using technique of moderate T2-weighted Three Dimensional Turbo Spin Echo-Fat Sequence pulse sequence in identifying nerve root compression in patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy. MRI myelogram detected less nerve root compression 5% but conventional MRI 8%. Clinical findings were significantly associated with imaging findings in both imaging techniques (p<0.001). MRI myelogram overreported 45 and conventional MRI over-reported 80 nerve roots compression when correlated with clinical presentation (p<0.001). There was 50% alteration on conventional MRI when viewed together with MRI myelogram. There was significant difference with nerve root compression and clinical findings between MRI myelogram and conventional MRI (p<0.001). MRI myelogram underestimated the number of nerve roots compressed but it altered the interpretation of conventional MRI in 5% cases when viewed together. The addition of MRI myelogram increased the number of positive nerve roots. MRI myelogram is a useful adjunct to conventional axial and sagittal imaging in the investigation of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

Percentage of Haemoglobin Variants Detected during HbA1c Analysis in Hospital Kuala Lumpur

HbA1c is an established index of glycaemic control and correlates strongly with risk of chronic diabetic complications. However, the accuracy of HbA1c measurement can be affected by many factors, among which is the presence of haemoglobin (Hb) variants. The aim of the study was to determine the percentage of Hb variant detected during HbA1c monitoring in Hospital Kuala Lumpur. The study also analysed non-reportable HbA1c results in the presence of Hb variants. A cross-sectional study using retrospective data of HbA1c results over fi ve months’ period was analysed on Biorad Variant II Turbo, a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay. The Hb variants were grouped either as HbS, HbC, others (Hb variant apart from HbS or C), and a combination of HbS or C with Others. A total of 11,904 patients were included. Only 2.3% (273) had Hb variants; HbS trait (10.3%), others (89%), and the combination of HbS trait with others (0.7%). No patient with HbC variant or its combination was found. Only 2.2% of those with Hb variant had non-reportable HbA1c. Although the percentage of Hb variants detected during HbA1c analysis and non-reportable HbA1c results were low, their presence should be noted.

Comparison of HbA(1c) Analyzers: D-10, Variant II Turbo, Cobas Integra 800, and Afinion AS100 / 대한진단검사의학회지

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance and agreement among HbA(1c) values measured using selected analyzers certified by the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP) and standardized by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC). METHODS: HbA(1c) determined using D-10 (Bio-Rad, USA), Variant II Turbo (Turbo; Bio-Rad, USA), Cobas Integra 800 (Integra; Roche, Switzerland) and Afinion AS100 (Afinion; Axis-Shield, Norway) were compared with each other. Precision and method comparisons with Deming regression were evaluated according to CLSI recommendations. We also compared the HbA(1c) values obtained with each analyzer using either IFCC or NGSP methods by correlation analysis and kappa statistics. RESULTS: The repeatability and method/device precisions of D-10 and Afinion were acceptable. The correlation coefficients of HbA(1c) were 0.986 for D-10 vs. Afinion, 0.997 for D-10 vs. Turbo, 0.988 for D-10 vs. Integra, and 0.991 for Integra vs. Afinion. The average biases of HbA(1c) Afinion (IFCC) and HbA(1c) Integra (IFCC) against HbA(1c) D-10 (NGSP) were -1.90% and -1.79%, respectively. Kappa agreement statistics for the three diabetic control group HbA(1c) values of "less than 6.5%," "6.5%-7.5%," and "greater than 7.5%" for D-10 vs. Turbo, D-10 vs. Integra, and D-10 vs. Afinion were 0.872, 0.836, and 0.833, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The strong correlations and good clinical agreements of HbA(1c) between each analyzer expressed in terms of either NGSP or IFCC-derived NGSP indicate that these analyzers can be used interchangeably.

The Comparison between Single Shot Turbo Spin Echo and B-FFE (Balanced Turbo Field-echo) in the Differentiation of Focal Liver Lesions

PURPOSE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of four different sequences : moderately T2 weighted, two heavily T2-weighted single shot turbo spin-echo sequence and breath-hold axial-2D balanced turbo field-echo sequence(bFFE) for characterization of focal lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During the 3-month period between June and August 2005, seventy-six patients were proved to have ninety-three focal hepatic lesions on MR imaging. The patients consisted of 49 men and 27 women (age range, 15-75 years; mean age, 56.23 years). All MR images were acquired on a 1.5-T MR using the following sequences: 1. A breath-hold axial T2-weighted single shot turbo spin-echo sequence, 2. a breath-hold axial-2D balanced turbo field-echo sequence. Two radiologists performed quantitative analysis. Another radiologist measured the lesion-to-liver contrast-to-noise ratio at the region-of-interest in the four sequences. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in inter-observer variability between the four sequences. The accuracy for both cyst and malignancy of moderate T2 weighted MRI (echo time: 80 msec) was also highest. There was significant difference for lesion characterization between moderate T2 weighted MRI and balanced steady state procession (p-value: 0.004) in the second reader. For longer echo time, the CNR of cystic lesions were markedly increased in comparison to lesions of other component. CONCLUSION: The accuracy and inter-observer variability of single shot turbo spin echo T2 weighted sequence was higher than bFFE. Although there was no statically significant difference, moderate T2 weighted MRI (echo time: 80 msec) was more accurate than heavily T2 weighted sequence (echo time: 300 msec). If the results for lesion characterization is equivocal in TE 80, the addition of heavily T2 weighted MRI (echo time: 180 msec) can be helpful.

Population structure and accompanying biota of the snail Turbo (Callopoma) funiculosus (Gastropoda: Turbinidae), on Socorro Island, Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico

The porcelain snail, Turbo funiculosus, is a potential fishery resource that almost has not been studied or used commercially. In March of 1992, we sampled T. funiculosus in Bahia Binners and Bahia Blanca, Socorro Island, Revillagigedo Archipelago, using 25 m2 quadrants. We found that total length varies between 3.0 and 85 mm, proportional weight between 3.0 and 228 g, and density between 6.21 and 9.87 ind/m2. The largest organisms (over 50 mm) contain 30.6% of soft parts. Porcelain snail populations remain unexploited on Revillagedo Archipelago and could be a potential resource under an adequate management strategy.

El caracol porcelana, Turbo funiculosus, es un recurso pesquero potencial que casi no ha sido estudiado ni se ha utilizado comercialmente. En marzo de 1992, se realizó un muestreo de T. funiculosus en Bahía Binners y Bahía Blanca, isla Socorro, archipiélago Revillagigedo, empleando cuadrantes de 25 m2. Se encontraron variaciones en la longitud total entre 3.0 y 85 mm, el peso proporcional entre 3.0 y 228 g, y la densidad entre 6.21 y 9.87 ind/m2. Los organismos de mayor tamaño (más de 50 mm) contienen 30.6 % de partes suaves. Las poblaciones del caracol porcelana siguen siendo inexplotadas en el archipiélago Revillagedo y podrían ser un recurso potencial de la industria pesquera bajo un adecuado plan de manejo.

Gametocitemia de Plasmodium falciparum según la respuesta terapéutica a sulfadoxina-pirimetamina y cloroquina en dos municipios de Antioquia, Colombia / Gametocyte levels in response to differing malaria treatments in two municipalities of Colombia

Se ha informado que el número de gametocitos circulantes de Plasmodium falciparum está influenciado por aspectos como el nivel de endemicidad de la zona, la clase de esquizonticidas sanguíneos usados y la respuesta terapéutica a ellos. En Colombia son muy pocos los trabajos que han evaluado estas relaciones. Mediante un diseño experimental, se evaluó la gametocitemia (variable efecto) en función del nivel endémico de dos municipios de Antioquia, del tratamiento (sulfadoxina-pirimetamina y sulfadoxina-pirimetamina más cloroquina) y de la respuesta terapéutica (adecuada y fallida). Se estudiaron 148 pacientes con malaria por P. falciparum no complicada. La gametocitemia varía en función del tiempo de padecimiento de la malaria actual (mayor en Turbo que en Zaragoza) y esta variable debe controlarse para eliminar la aparente diferencia en las gametocitemias por municipio. No se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la gametocitemia (porcentaje de pacientes con gametocitos circulantes y cantidad de ellos por microlitro) según el tratamiento y la respuesta terapéutica, aunque los niveles de gametocitos son mayores en los pacientes tratados sólo con sulfadoxinapirimetamina, respecto a quienes recibieron sulfadoxina-pirimetamina más cloroquina. Tampoco hubo diferencias en la gametocitemia según el sexo ni la edad de los pacientes, ni se halló correlación de ella con la parasitemia asexual. La diferencia en el nivel de gametocitemia encontrada entre los municiios de Turbo y Zaragoza parece estar influida por el tiempo transcurrido entre el inicio de los síntomas y la instauración del tratamiento.

Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte levels are influenced by level of regional endemicity, the antimalarial treatment, and the therapeutic response of patients. Few previous studies have related these factors in Colombia. Here, gametocytaemia was evaluated with respect to two treatment schemes (sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine plus chloroquine), the patient response (adequate or failure), and the locality (two areas of varying case frequency). One hundred forty-eight residents of Turbo and Zaragoza (Antioquia), all with uncomplicated malaria, were evaluated. The gametocytaemia and the rates of clinical malaria at the beginning of treatment were greater in Turbo than in Zaragoza. No statiscally significant differences in the gametocytaemia by treatment schemes or therapeutic responses were noted, although the patients who received SP had more gametocytes than those treated with SP+CQ. Gametocytaemia was not correlated with asexual parasitemia or sex and age of patient. The difference in the level of gametocytaemia between Turbo and Zaragoza appears to be influenced by the time elapsed between the appearance of symptoms and the beginning of treatment.

La malaria en Colombia, Antioquia y las zonas de Urabá y Bajo Cauca: panorama para interpretar la falla terapéutica antimalárica, parte 2 / Malaria in the colombian regions of uraba and el bajo cauca, province of antioquia: an overwiew to interpret the antimalarial therapeutic failure

ANTECEDENTES Y PROBLEMA: en 1998-2002 se investigó en Antioquia (Turbo, Zaragoza y El Bagre) la eficacia terapéutica de medicamentos y combinaciones antimaláricos. La interpretación de la respuesta terapéutica (adecuada, fallas precoz y tardía) requiere información adicional para una mejor comprensión.OBJETIVO: definir un marco de referencia para interpretar los resultados de las evaluaciones de respuesta terapéutica antimalárica, constituido por información sobre el comportamiento de los programas antimaláricos en Colombia y por información demográfica, epidemiológica, climatológica y socioeconómica sobre el departamento de Antioquia, las regiones de Urabá y Bajo Cauca y los municipios de Turbo y El Bagre.METODOLOGÍA: se usó información oficial secundaria y, menos, información primaria. Con los datos recogidos se construyeron cuadros y gráficos, se hicieron cálculos sobre otras variables.RESULTADOS: la malaria en Antioquia es la malaria de Urabá y Bajo Cauca: aportan el 90 por ciento de los casos. En esas zonas hay falla terapéutica in vivo y resistencia in vitro a varios medicamentos antimaláricos por parte de P. falciparum. En 2002, el 8,38 por ciento de la población de Antioquia residía en Urabá y el 3,98 por ciento en Bajo Cauca, mientras Turbo poseía el 25,62 por ciento de la población urabaense y El Bagre reunía el 27,2 por ciento de la población bajocaucana. El 100 por ciento de la población de estas regiones está expuesta a la malaria. En 1973-1982, la incidencia mediana malárica en Urabá fue de 2.997,3 casos por cien mil expuestos y en el Bajo Cauca fue de 4.463,7 por cien mil expuestos. En 1996-2000, el promedio aritmético del índice parasitario anual fue 40 por mil en Turbo y 156 por mil en el conjunto de El Bagre y Zaragoza. En 2000-septiembre 2003, la relación vivax: falciparum fue de 2:1 y los casos en pacientes masculinos representaron el 61 por ciento. En las dos regiones, la malaria no complicada tiene el mismo cuadro clínico con ambas especies (P. vivax, P. falciparum).

Problem: in the past 5 years we have studied the treatment response to antimalarials and their combinations in the Antioquia region (Turbo, Zaragoza and El Bagre municipalities). The interpretation and better understanding of the treatment outcome (adequate clinical response, early treatment failure or late treatment failure) require further information since this response depends on host's and parasite's factors, independently of the characteristics of the antimalarial administered. Objectives: to define an adequate reference frame which allows for interpretation of results obtained during antimalarials treatment assessment studies. This would include demography, epidemiology, climatic and social-economic information about Colombia, Antioquia, the regions of Uraba, Bajo Cauca and the municipalities of Turbo and El Bagre. Methodology: research of secondary information (publications reports and internet resources), and some primary information (taken from Sistema de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de Antioquia (Sivigila) of Dirección Seccional de Salud de Antioquia DSSA). Data about treatment response were primary information (produced by Grupo Malaria, Universidad de Antioquia), or obtained from other authors. With the gathered data, tables and graphs were produced and calculations were carried out using other variables. Results: the frequency of malaria is presented for Colombia during the period 1960-2002 and the results of the malaria eradication and control programs, and their failure, are described. Similarly, the frequency of malaria in Antioquia during 1959-2003 is discussed and presented in terms of incidence rates and parasite annual indexes (PAI). Non adjusted and adjusted rates and PAI were obtained, therefore adjusted rates are presented by exposed population, which is less of 20%. Adjusted results are 5-6 fold higher that non-adjusted values in Antioquia. However this is not true for the Uraba and Bajo Cauca regions, where 100% of the population is exposed to malaria. Malaria incidence in Antioquia is increasing. The mean PAI for the period 1996-2002 was 54,08‰ in Turbo and 111,20‰ in El Bagre. Malaria is described considering patient's gender and age, in Antioquia as well as in Turbo and El Bagre. A review of the findings about treatment failure in Plasmodium falciparum malaria is presented and some recommendations about the use of antimalarials are outlined

3.0T Coronary MR Angiography:Preliminary Study of Techniques / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To explore the feasibility of coronary magnetic resonance angiography(CMRA) with a T2-prepared turbo field echo(T2-TFE) sequence at 3.0T MR scanner.Methods 33 objects underwent CMRA at 3.0T MR imaging unit.The CMRA was performed with a 3D T2-TFE sequence.Electrocardiographically gating combined with real-time respiratory navigator gating and tracking was used to suppress the cardiac motion and correct for respiratory-induced coronary artery motion.The original images were reconstructed with MIP and Soap Bubble software.The quality of CMRA was evaluated and the lengths of the main coronary arterial branches were measured.Results 115 of 128 coronary arteries were scored higher than 3 with the standard of image quality.The lengths of LM,LAD,LCX and RCA were(12.0?3.8) mm,(79.4?18.9) mm,(60.0?12.7) mm and(110.7?27.2) mm,respectively.Conclusion CMRA with T2-TFE sequence is feasible at 3.0T.