DNA fingerprinting among members of the Chinese drug Pu Gong Ying(Taraxacum mongolicum Hand,-Mazz.)and six adulterants of Tu Gong Ying were demonstrated with random-primed polymerase chain reaction(PCR)including arbit...DNA fingerprinting among members of the Chinese drug Pu Gong Ying(Taraxacum mongolicum Hand,-Mazz.)and six adulterants of Tu Gong Ying were demonstrated with random-primed polymerase chain reaction(PCR)including arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction(AP-PCR)and random amplified polymorphic DNA(RAPD).Distinctive,reproducible genomic fingerprints from DNA from 7 species belonged to Compositae were generated with two long(20 and 24 mer)and one short(10 mer)randomly chosen primers.The Pu Gong Ying can be differentiated from six species of Tu Gong Ying according to the banding pattems of their amplified DNA on agarose gels.The results showed that AP-PCR and RAPD methods can be used for identifying Chinese drugs.Moreover,the Similarity Indexes of the genomic DNA fingerprints showed that Pu Gong Ying and its adulterants are unrelated.Therefore,AP-PCR and RAPD methods can be used for identifying Chinese drugs.展开更多
AIM: Taraxacum officinale (TO) has been frequently used as a remedy for inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of TO on cholecystokinin (CCK)-octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis ...AIM: Taraxacum officinale (TO) has been frequently used as a remedy for inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of TO on cholecystokinin (CCK)-octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis in rats.METHODS: TO at 10 mg/kg was orally administered, followed by 75 μg/kg CCK octapeptide injected subcutaneously three times after 1, 3 and 5 h. This whole procedure was repeated for 5 d. We determined the pancreatic weight/body weight ratio, the levels of pancreatic HSP60 and HSP72, and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Repeated CCK octapeptide treatment resulted in typical laboratory and morphological changes of experimentally-induced pancreatitis.RESULTS: TO significantly decreased the pancreatic weight/body weight ratio in CCK octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis. TO also increased the pancreatic levels of HSP60 and HSP72. Additionally, the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α decreased in the animals treated with TO.CONCLUSION: TO may have a protective effect against CCK octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis.展开更多
AIM: To analyze the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution and transmission risk factors in a population of unselected patients in Luxembourg.METHODS: Epidemiological information (gender, age and transmiss...AIM: To analyze the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution and transmission risk factors in a population of unselected patients in Luxembourg.METHODS: Epidemiological information (gender, age and transmission risks) were collected from 802 patients newly diagnosed for hepatitis C and living in Luxembourg, among whom 228 patients referred from prison. Genotyping using 5'noncoding (5'NC) sequencing was performed. We compared categorical data using the Fisher's exact F-test and odds ratios (OR) were calculated for evaluating association of HCV genotype and risk factors.RESULTS: The sex ratio was predominantly male (2.2) and individuals aged less than 40 years represented 49.6% of the population. Genotype 1 was predominant (53.4%) followed by genotype 3 (33%). Among risk factors, intravenous drug usage (IVDU) was the most frequently reported (71.4%) followed by medical-related transmission (17.6%) including haemophilia, transfusion recipients and other nosocomial reasons. Genotype 3 was significantly associated to IVDU (OR = 4.84, P 〈 0.0001) whereas genotype 1 was significantly associated with a medical procedure (OR = 2.42, P 〈 0.001). The HCV genotype distribution from inmate patients differed significantly from the rest of the population (Chi-square test with four degrees of freedom, P 〈 0.0001) with a higher frequency of genotype 3 (46.5% vs 27.5%) and a lower frequency of genotype 1 and 4 (44.7% vs 56.8% and 5.3% vs 9.6%, respectively). IVDU was nearly exclusively reported as a risk factor in prison.CONCLUSION: We report the first description of the HCV genotype distribution in Luxembourg. The repartition is similar to other European counties, with one of the highest European prevalence rates of genotype 3 (33%). Since serology screening became available in 2992, IVDU remains the most common way of HCV transmission in Luxembourg.展开更多
Pharmaceutical industry plays a strategic role in economy of Iran. Corporate governance, in pharmaceutical companies as the very core of an organization, and the driving force of corporate leadership, plays a signific...Pharmaceutical industry plays a strategic role in economy of Iran. Corporate governance, in pharmaceutical companies as the very core of an organization, and the driving force of corporate leadership, plays a significant role in business success and overall productivity of the firms. As yet, the characteristics, factors causing success and failure of core governance in Iranian pharmaceutical industry have remained unsearched. Furthermore, the applicability of western theories and models to the traditional societies such as Iran are largely unknown. This study is an attempt to explore the pattern of board effectiveness and firm performance in Iranian pharmaceutical industry and suggesting an alternative good governance model suitable to apply to less developed countries (LDC) pharmaceutical industry, with emphasis on Iranian context. After An intensive literature review the model suggested by Ingley and Van der Walt (2001) was found to be more comprehensive, practical and suitable for this study. However, after empirical evaluation further development to the model to fit the pharmaceutical industry and the context of LDCs, especially Iran, is suggested. Empirically the paper stands upon a rich database consisting of Tamin Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Investment Company (TAPIC) and its 11 subsidiary companies which are treated as 11 mini-cases. Data were collected by document analysis, questionnaire and interviews. Since two of the authors have many years experience as managers in the same industrial group, we got access to rich information that normally are not accessible to researchers in less developed countries. The results suggest some improvements to the earlier models and show that the pattern of board effectiveness in Iranian pharmaceutical industry can be influenced by: (1) Internal factors including: (a) board members, the personality and background, (b) board composition, which is influenced by selection criteria, Tribalism, interpersonal relationship and belonging to the same ideological group, (c) board interactions, and (d) power distribution in the board, which is influenced by parenting power in holding companies. All internal factors are directly or indirectly affected by political issues as well as socio-cultural forces. (2) External factors including: (a) industrial complexity and the nature of industry, (b) industrial ethos, (c) legislation, and political forces, (d) economy, which the last two factors are influenced by international environment as well.展开更多
The structures of numerous industries, including the insurance industry, have been altered by the ongoing development of associated technologies. As the insurance industry undergoes this period of technology transform...The structures of numerous industries, including the insurance industry, have been altered by the ongoing development of associated technologies. As the insurance industry undergoes this period of technology transformation, it is important to recognize the key role that big data play in the industry. Most critically, the industry could not function without the utilization of big data, which explains to a large extent why every insurance company maintains its own numeric database. Relatedly, Taiwan's Bureau of National Health Insurance recently established the Information Integration Application Service Center, to which qualified companies and institutions can submit applications for permission to analyze the bureau's collected disease data according to stipulated regulations. In effect, access to the center's data provides insurance companies with a further means of improving their operational effectiveness through the analysis of big data, with targets for potential improvements including the various strategies utilized to react to changes in the environment, such as those involved in marketing, administrative management, and product pricing and services. The foundation of the present study consisted of a literature review and survey, with the key objective being to determine and discuss the effects of big data analysis on the medical insurance industry, including the changes that the utilization of big data results in for the customers of medical insurance companies. With the issues discussed above in mind, the survey was designed to determine whether medical insurance consumers know about and understand the effects of big data. The survey data indicated the following key findings: (1) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of population statistic wxiables; (2) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of insurance purchasing variables; and (3) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of the level of understanding regarding big data.展开更多
Pesticides have done a great service to human, but their use is not safe for public health. Apart from pesticides acute toxicity, their chronic toxicity can cause various problems for human health. The objective of th...Pesticides have done a great service to human, but their use is not safe for public health. Apart from pesticides acute toxicity, their chronic toxicity can cause various problems for human health. The objective of this work was to validate a liquid-liquid extraction method, which allows a fairly reliable analysis of pesticides using gas chromatography-spectrometry mass (GC/MS) in toxicology laboratory at National Institute of hygiene, Rabat Morocco. The equipment required to perform these analyzes are the biological matrices (blood, gastric fluid), in which the authors have doped the Organophosphorus pesticides such as Chlorpyrifos, Dichlorvos and Organochlorine pesticide: dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Heptachlor. After extracting the mixture with toluene, the supernatant was collected after centrifugation and concentrated in a small volume of 1.5 mL and then analyzed in GC/MS. After analyzing, the authors found that the yields of each pesticide in samples are significant; respectively they represented 73.4% of Chlorpyrifos, 70.8% of Dichlorvos, 47.8% of DDT and 71.6% of Heptachlor. The blood has a strong link with the most pesticides, where it's important to use the GC/MS to identify these products. The extraction with toluene was effective, especially to OP, but it's also sensitive to OC.展开更多
Abstract: The main purpose of the research was to study a role and place of managers in maintaining staff policy at pharmaceutical companies. It was interesting to see how Georgian pharmaceutical companies are gettin...Abstract: The main purpose of the research was to study a role and place of managers in maintaining staff policy at pharmaceutical companies. It was interesting to see how Georgian pharmaceutical companies are getting new employees at work, what is the priority of the new recruits? What methods are used for selection and recruitment? There were made inquiries by the way of filling applications, which (the applications) were given to the managers ofAversi, PSP, GPC, Pharmadepot and Pharmaceutical House. 50 managers were interviewed totally. It was established that pharmaceutical company management appoints people on the position of pharmacist-managers mainly on the basis of contract (90%). At present, the pharmacist education does not comply with the competence, so 55% of interviewed managers are bachelors, 45% are masters. In order to increase the management's qualifications, pharmaceutical companies are conducting seminars (50%), trainings (30%), and testing (20%). Staff administration in the pharmacies is mainly carried out by the company administration (75%), rarely by managers (25%), but very often the administration takes into consideration the manager's opinion; employees are accepted by testing-interview (70%) or CV (30%). Professional career and experience of the newly employed staff are not highly important (50/50), and the company prefers to educate and share practice to the personnel itself. It is possible to conclude that today the pharmacist-managers of the pharmacies are working in accordance with the contractual fights and obligations signed with the employers and pharmaceutical activities regulated under non-governmental institutes. As a result, it is important to be included special features of pharmaceutical management and the recommendations offered by the World Health Organization and the International Pharmaceutical Federation in the articles of regulatory laws.展开更多
Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has played an important role in the prevention and control of coronavirus disease 2019(COvID-19)and has received considerable attention from all sectors of society.In the current situa...Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has played an important role in the prevention and control of coronavirus disease 2019(COvID-19)and has received considerable attention from all sectors of society.In the current situation of the global outbreak,it is crucial to promote the global application of TCM.However,the pandemic has also exposed various problems affecting the widespread acceptance of TCM.In this review,we summarize efforts to prevent and control cOoVID-19 by TCM and provide strategic guidance on how to promote its practice in the context of public health emergencies by(1)completing the system for evaluating the clinical efficacy of TCM;(2)transforming decoctions into Chinese patent medicines;(3)encouraging low-threshold traditional rehabilitation therapy;(4)strengthening communication and cooperation with the media.The aim of these approaches is to improve the rigor of TCM research and its dissemination,sharing the antiepidemic experience of TCM to the world,as well as increase the engagement of and acceptance by the masses.In this manner,TCM will not only aid in preventing and controlling CoVID-19 but can also provide tools for coping withfuture public health emergencies.展开更多
State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(SATCM),jointly with National Health and Family Planning Commission(NHFPC),issued results of survey on healthcare literacy of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)...State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(SATCM),jointly with National Health and Family Planning Commission(NHFPC),issued results of survey on healthcare literacy of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)on March 31.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) on reproductive toxicity in mice in- duced by a glycoside extracted from Leigongteng (Radix et Rhizoma ...OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) on reproductive toxicity in mice in- duced by a glycoside extracted from Leigongteng (Radix et Rhizoma Tripterygii) (GRT). METHODS: Forty-eight BALB/c mice were random-ly divided into two groups in the ratio of I : 3, 12 in one group and 36 in the other. The 12-mouse group was the control group that was intragastrical- ly administered physiological saline for 3 weeks. The 36 mice in the other group were given 30 mg- kg ·^-1 d i GRT for 3 weeks, then randomly divided into 3 subgroups: the model group, GRI group and Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) group, with 12 mice in each group. In the model group, 0.25 mL physiological saline was intragastri- cally administered; in the GRT group, GRT, 0.25 mL at 30 mg · kg ^-1· d ^-1 was intragastrically adminis- tered once a day; in the Roucongrong (Herba Cis- tanches Deserticolae) group, mice were adminis- tered Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) decoction equivalent to 0.25 mL at a final dose of 10g.kg 1.d.1 crude drug (calculated as per 20 times of 0.5 g· kg^-1. d ^-1 for adults), and GRT 0.25 mL at 30 mg- kg^-1· d^- 1 daily. After another 3 weeks of exposure, expression levels of the reproduction-re- lated genes DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypep- tide 3, Y-linked, B-cell CLL/lymphoma 6 and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 were evaluated. RESULTS: After 6 weeks of GRT treatment, the sper- matogenic cell population in the convoluted tu- bule of testis was in disorder and the tubule cavity expanded. Sertoli cell and Leydig cells exhibited at- rophy or disappeared. The number of sperm de- creased. The spermatogenic cell level of testis for male mice was ranked in order and sperm was pro- duced in the cavity of the spermatogenic cell. The expression levels of DDX3Y, BCL6 and STAT3 were up-regulated.CONCLUSION: GRT affected reproduction-related genes. Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Desertico- lae) reversed reproductive toxicity in mice induced by GRT.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of a series of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) empirical prescriptions with salbutamol and montelukast(SM) in children with asthma.METHODS: A total of 182 children with asthma were ...OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of a series of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) empirical prescriptions with salbutamol and montelukast(SM) in children with asthma.METHODS: A total of 182 children with asthma were randomized into the TCM group(n = 97) or SM group(n = 85). Patients in the TCM group were treated with a series of TCM prescriptions, whereas those in the SM group received salbutamol and montelukast; both groups received their respective treatment for 12 weeks. Asthma control, changes in scores of TCM symptom patterns, and asthma symptom control(SC) scores after treatment were compared between the two groups.RESULTS: A higher percentage of patients in the TCM group had asthma control compared withthose in the SM group(91.67% and 76.83%, respectively, P = 0.006). Scores for abnormal feces(P <0.001), hyperhidrosis(P < 0.001), and tongue appearance(P = 0.001) in the TCM group were significantly better than those in the SM group. However,the total scores of TCM symptom patterns and SC scores did not differ significantly between the two groups(P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: Compared with salbutamol and montelukast, the TCM prescriptions tested were better for symptom control in children with asthma.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:Because herbal compatibility is one of the most important reasons why Traditional Chinese Medcine(TCM) formulas are effective for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(AIDS),our study aimed to determine the com...OBJECTIVE:Because herbal compatibility is one of the most important reasons why Traditional Chinese Medcine(TCM) formulas are effective for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(AIDS),our study aimed to determine the compatibility of herbs based on published AIDS clinical research in Chinese periodicals.To achieve this aim,we designed a new data-mining algorithm according to TCM data characteristics.METHODS:We found 25 clinical AIDS studies,all using Chinese herbs for treatment,in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Database System,and information on diagnosis and treatment was extracted.To find out herbal compatibility,especially the formulae for herbal combinations,we proposed an improved association rule algorithm based on the frequency of combinations.In this algorithm,all the compatibility relationships were displayed in a tree structure,by which the relationship between formulas and their derivation could be clearly inferred.RESULTS:Data analysis showed that approximately 100 herbs have been used for treating AIDS.Based on the whole herb compatibility tree,we calculated a basic formula for AIDS:Huang Qi combined with Ren Shen,Fu Ling,Bai Zhu,Bai Zhu,Dang Gui,and Bai Shao.This formula,deriving from most of clinical prescriptions,and was chosed by most of clinicians for AIDS treatment.From data mining we found that Qi replenishment and detoxification were the main treatment principles,which coincided with the AIDS pathological mechanism in which immune function is destroyed by human immunodeficiency virus(HIV).CONCLUSIONS:Our data-mining results suggest that the core TCM treatment of AIDS is replenishing Qi and detoxification,by which AIDS patients' immune system may be enhanced.Compatibility of Huang Qi with some frequently-used herbs have shown real efficacy in clinical practice,which warrants pharmacological research in the future.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of Bushenjianpi prescription(BSJPP), a formula from Traditional Chinese Medicine, on a mouse model of autoimmune premature ovarian failure(POF) induced by mouse zona pellucida(ZP3) an...OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of Bushenjianpi prescription(BSJPP), a formula from Traditional Chinese Medicine, on a mouse model of autoimmune premature ovarian failure(POF) induced by mouse zona pellucida(ZP3) and to investigate the mechanisms underlying the action.METHODS: After randomization, POF was induced in the model mice by immunization with ZP3. One week later, mice received low(8.1 mg/kg), moderate(16.2 mg/kg) and high(32.4 mg/kg) doses of BSJPP by gastrogavage once daily for 90 days. Premarin(0.03 mg/kg) served as the positive group. Serum samples were collected 1 week after the last dose and stored at-20 ℃ for analysis. After cervical dislocation, the uterus and ovaries were collected aseptically for evaluation by histological assessment, scanning electron microscopy, immunohistochemical staining, and Western blot and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses.RESULTS: Serum E2 levels in POF model mice were decreased, whereas follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone(LH) levels were dramatically increased. Serum levels of E2,LH and FSH were reduced in POF model mice treated with BSJPP(moderate and high doses) and premarin. Anti-bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP-15) and connexin 43(Cx43) were repressed in autoimmune POF model mice, whereas high expression was observed in control mice and those treated with BSJPP(moderate and high doses)and premarin.CONCLUSION: BSJPP is effective in treating ZP3-induced POF in mice and the increase in the expression of BMP-15 and Cx43 may be implicated in the mechanism underpinning the action.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the influence of Yin-tonification herbal formulas Jaeumganghwa-tang(Ziyin Jianghuo Tang,JEGHT),Ssanghwa-tang(Shuanghe Tang,SHT) and Yukmijihwang-tang(Liuwei Di huang Tang,YMJHT) on the activit...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the influence of Yin-tonification herbal formulas Jaeumganghwa-tang(Ziyin Jianghuo Tang,JEGHT),Ssanghwa-tang(Shuanghe Tang,SHT) and Yukmijihwang-tang(Liuwei Di huang Tang,YMJHT) on the activities of human major cytochrome P450(CYP450 s) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases isozymes(UGTs) in vitro.METHODS:The activities of CYP450 s(CYP1 A2,CYP3 A4,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6 and CYP2 E1) and UGTs(UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7)were assessed using in vitro fluorescence-and luminescence-based enzyme assays,respectively.The effects of herbal formulas on the activities of CYP450 s and UGTs were presented as IC50 values.RESULTS:JEGHT showed the potent inhibition of the CYP2 D6 activity,with weak inhibition on the activities of CYP1 A2,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 E1,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7.SHT inhibited the activities of CYP1 A2 and CYP2 E1,whereas the negligible inhibition of the activities of CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7 through SHT was observed.YMJHT inhibited CYP2 E1 activity,with a negligible inhibition on the activities of CYP1 A2,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7.CONCLUSION:These findings provide information about the potential interactions between three Yin-tonification herbal formulas and conventional drugs.展开更多
Powder formulae are an indispensable part of prescription in Traditional Chinese Medicine.Powder formulae are characterized by good therapeutic efficacy and low dose used for their preparation.Analysis of the therapeu...Powder formulae are an indispensable part of prescription in Traditional Chinese Medicine.Powder formulae are characterized by good therapeutic efficacy and low dose used for their preparation.Analysis of the therapeutic application and material basis of pharmacological active substance in power formulae can enable the development of new powder formulae.This in turn can contribute to reduction of wastage of drug material,relief of shortage of herbal medicinal resources and sustainable development of Traditional Chinese Medicine.展开更多
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome(AIDS) is a worldwide public health problem and an incurable disease.The roles of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) on AIDS had been recognized and accepted by more and more people.B...Acquired immune deficiency syndrome(AIDS) is a worldwide public health problem and an incurable disease.The roles of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) on AIDS had been recognized and accepted by more and more people.Being a relatively long period,to initiate combination antiretroviral therapy(cART) for the asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection patient is not consensus.According to TCM theory,not only the imbalance of Yin and Yang but also the disharmony of internal body function and external natural environment had occurred in the body of the patient,the imbalance and the disharmony should be adjusted by the means of the treatment based on the patters identified among the symptoms in terms of TCM.We aimed to analyze the feature of patients with asymptomatic infection,and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the usage of cART for asymptomatic infection,explored the possible mechanism underlying TCM treatment of the asymptomatic infection,by reviewing the TCM treatment progress on asymptomatic HIV infection.展开更多
文摘DNA fingerprinting among members of the Chinese drug Pu Gong Ying(Taraxacum mongolicum Hand,-Mazz.)and six adulterants of Tu Gong Ying were demonstrated with random-primed polymerase chain reaction(PCR)including arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction(AP-PCR)and random amplified polymorphic DNA(RAPD).Distinctive,reproducible genomic fingerprints from DNA from 7 species belonged to Compositae were generated with two long(20 and 24 mer)and one short(10 mer)randomly chosen primers.The Pu Gong Ying can be differentiated from six species of Tu Gong Ying according to the banding pattems of their amplified DNA on agarose gels.The results showed that AP-PCR and RAPD methods can be used for identifying Chinese drugs.Moreover,the Similarity Indexes of the genomic DNA fingerprints showed that Pu Gong Ying and its adulterants are unrelated.Therefore,AP-PCR and RAPD methods can be used for identifying Chinese drugs.
文摘AIM: Taraxacum officinale (TO) has been frequently used as a remedy for inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of TO on cholecystokinin (CCK)-octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis in rats.METHODS: TO at 10 mg/kg was orally administered, followed by 75 μg/kg CCK octapeptide injected subcutaneously three times after 1, 3 and 5 h. This whole procedure was repeated for 5 d. We determined the pancreatic weight/body weight ratio, the levels of pancreatic HSP60 and HSP72, and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Repeated CCK octapeptide treatment resulted in typical laboratory and morphological changes of experimentally-induced pancreatitis.RESULTS: TO significantly decreased the pancreatic weight/body weight ratio in CCK octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis. TO also increased the pancreatic levels of HSP60 and HSP72. Additionally, the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α decreased in the animals treated with TO.CONCLUSION: TO may have a protective effect against CCK octapeptide-induced acute pancreatitis.
基金The "Centre de Recherche Public-Santé" (CRP-Santé, project LRV-REC-06-01)
文摘AIM: To analyze the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution and transmission risk factors in a population of unselected patients in Luxembourg.METHODS: Epidemiological information (gender, age and transmission risks) were collected from 802 patients newly diagnosed for hepatitis C and living in Luxembourg, among whom 228 patients referred from prison. Genotyping using 5'noncoding (5'NC) sequencing was performed. We compared categorical data using the Fisher's exact F-test and odds ratios (OR) were calculated for evaluating association of HCV genotype and risk factors.RESULTS: The sex ratio was predominantly male (2.2) and individuals aged less than 40 years represented 49.6% of the population. Genotype 1 was predominant (53.4%) followed by genotype 3 (33%). Among risk factors, intravenous drug usage (IVDU) was the most frequently reported (71.4%) followed by medical-related transmission (17.6%) including haemophilia, transfusion recipients and other nosocomial reasons. Genotype 3 was significantly associated to IVDU (OR = 4.84, P 〈 0.0001) whereas genotype 1 was significantly associated with a medical procedure (OR = 2.42, P 〈 0.001). The HCV genotype distribution from inmate patients differed significantly from the rest of the population (Chi-square test with four degrees of freedom, P 〈 0.0001) with a higher frequency of genotype 3 (46.5% vs 27.5%) and a lower frequency of genotype 1 and 4 (44.7% vs 56.8% and 5.3% vs 9.6%, respectively). IVDU was nearly exclusively reported as a risk factor in prison.CONCLUSION: We report the first description of the HCV genotype distribution in Luxembourg. The repartition is similar to other European counties, with one of the highest European prevalence rates of genotype 3 (33%). Since serology screening became available in 2992, IVDU remains the most common way of HCV transmission in Luxembourg.
文摘Pharmaceutical industry plays a strategic role in economy of Iran. Corporate governance, in pharmaceutical companies as the very core of an organization, and the driving force of corporate leadership, plays a significant role in business success and overall productivity of the firms. As yet, the characteristics, factors causing success and failure of core governance in Iranian pharmaceutical industry have remained unsearched. Furthermore, the applicability of western theories and models to the traditional societies such as Iran are largely unknown. This study is an attempt to explore the pattern of board effectiveness and firm performance in Iranian pharmaceutical industry and suggesting an alternative good governance model suitable to apply to less developed countries (LDC) pharmaceutical industry, with emphasis on Iranian context. After An intensive literature review the model suggested by Ingley and Van der Walt (2001) was found to be more comprehensive, practical and suitable for this study. However, after empirical evaluation further development to the model to fit the pharmaceutical industry and the context of LDCs, especially Iran, is suggested. Empirically the paper stands upon a rich database consisting of Tamin Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Investment Company (TAPIC) and its 11 subsidiary companies which are treated as 11 mini-cases. Data were collected by document analysis, questionnaire and interviews. Since two of the authors have many years experience as managers in the same industrial group, we got access to rich information that normally are not accessible to researchers in less developed countries. The results suggest some improvements to the earlier models and show that the pattern of board effectiveness in Iranian pharmaceutical industry can be influenced by: (1) Internal factors including: (a) board members, the personality and background, (b) board composition, which is influenced by selection criteria, Tribalism, interpersonal relationship and belonging to the same ideological group, (c) board interactions, and (d) power distribution in the board, which is influenced by parenting power in holding companies. All internal factors are directly or indirectly affected by political issues as well as socio-cultural forces. (2) External factors including: (a) industrial complexity and the nature of industry, (b) industrial ethos, (c) legislation, and political forces, (d) economy, which the last two factors are influenced by international environment as well.
文摘The structures of numerous industries, including the insurance industry, have been altered by the ongoing development of associated technologies. As the insurance industry undergoes this period of technology transformation, it is important to recognize the key role that big data play in the industry. Most critically, the industry could not function without the utilization of big data, which explains to a large extent why every insurance company maintains its own numeric database. Relatedly, Taiwan's Bureau of National Health Insurance recently established the Information Integration Application Service Center, to which qualified companies and institutions can submit applications for permission to analyze the bureau's collected disease data according to stipulated regulations. In effect, access to the center's data provides insurance companies with a further means of improving their operational effectiveness through the analysis of big data, with targets for potential improvements including the various strategies utilized to react to changes in the environment, such as those involved in marketing, administrative management, and product pricing and services. The foundation of the present study consisted of a literature review and survey, with the key objective being to determine and discuss the effects of big data analysis on the medical insurance industry, including the changes that the utilization of big data results in for the customers of medical insurance companies. With the issues discussed above in mind, the survey was designed to determine whether medical insurance consumers know about and understand the effects of big data. The survey data indicated the following key findings: (1) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of population statistic wxiables; (2) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of insurance purchasing variables; and (3) The two concepts exhibit clear differences in terms of the level of understanding regarding big data.
文摘Pesticides have done a great service to human, but their use is not safe for public health. Apart from pesticides acute toxicity, their chronic toxicity can cause various problems for human health. The objective of this work was to validate a liquid-liquid extraction method, which allows a fairly reliable analysis of pesticides using gas chromatography-spectrometry mass (GC/MS) in toxicology laboratory at National Institute of hygiene, Rabat Morocco. The equipment required to perform these analyzes are the biological matrices (blood, gastric fluid), in which the authors have doped the Organophosphorus pesticides such as Chlorpyrifos, Dichlorvos and Organochlorine pesticide: dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Heptachlor. After extracting the mixture with toluene, the supernatant was collected after centrifugation and concentrated in a small volume of 1.5 mL and then analyzed in GC/MS. After analyzing, the authors found that the yields of each pesticide in samples are significant; respectively they represented 73.4% of Chlorpyrifos, 70.8% of Dichlorvos, 47.8% of DDT and 71.6% of Heptachlor. The blood has a strong link with the most pesticides, where it's important to use the GC/MS to identify these products. The extraction with toluene was effective, especially to OP, but it's also sensitive to OC.
文摘Abstract: The main purpose of the research was to study a role and place of managers in maintaining staff policy at pharmaceutical companies. It was interesting to see how Georgian pharmaceutical companies are getting new employees at work, what is the priority of the new recruits? What methods are used for selection and recruitment? There were made inquiries by the way of filling applications, which (the applications) were given to the managers ofAversi, PSP, GPC, Pharmadepot and Pharmaceutical House. 50 managers were interviewed totally. It was established that pharmaceutical company management appoints people on the position of pharmacist-managers mainly on the basis of contract (90%). At present, the pharmacist education does not comply with the competence, so 55% of interviewed managers are bachelors, 45% are masters. In order to increase the management's qualifications, pharmaceutical companies are conducting seminars (50%), trainings (30%), and testing (20%). Staff administration in the pharmacies is mainly carried out by the company administration (75%), rarely by managers (25%), but very often the administration takes into consideration the manager's opinion; employees are accepted by testing-interview (70%) or CV (30%). Professional career and experience of the newly employed staff are not highly important (50/50), and the company prefers to educate and share practice to the personnel itself. It is possible to conclude that today the pharmacist-managers of the pharmacies are working in accordance with the contractual fights and obligations signed with the employers and pharmaceutical activities regulated under non-governmental institutes. As a result, it is important to be included special features of pharmaceutical management and the recommendations offered by the World Health Organization and the International Pharmaceutical Federation in the articles of regulatory laws.
文摘Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has played an important role in the prevention and control of coronavirus disease 2019(COvID-19)and has received considerable attention from all sectors of society.In the current situation of the global outbreak,it is crucial to promote the global application of TCM.However,the pandemic has also exposed various problems affecting the widespread acceptance of TCM.In this review,we summarize efforts to prevent and control cOoVID-19 by TCM and provide strategic guidance on how to promote its practice in the context of public health emergencies by(1)completing the system for evaluating the clinical efficacy of TCM;(2)transforming decoctions into Chinese patent medicines;(3)encouraging low-threshold traditional rehabilitation therapy;(4)strengthening communication and cooperation with the media.The aim of these approaches is to improve the rigor of TCM research and its dissemination,sharing the antiepidemic experience of TCM to the world,as well as increase the engagement of and acceptance by the masses.In this manner,TCM will not only aid in preventing and controlling CoVID-19 but can also provide tools for coping withfuture public health emergencies.
文摘State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(SATCM),jointly with National Health and Family Planning Commission(NHFPC),issued results of survey on healthcare literacy of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)on March 31.
基金Supported by Ministry of Scientific Technology of China Grant(No.201007005)National Natural Science Foundation of China Grant(No.81173219)+3 种基金Shanghai Science & Technology Commission Grant(No.11DZ1973100No.12ZR1432400)Key Clinic Laboratory of TCM of Shanghai,the Chinese Medicine Development Three Years Project of Shanghai Municipal Health Bureau(No.ZYSNXD-CC-YJXYY)Innovative Research Team in Universities,Shanghai Municipal Education
文摘OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) on reproductive toxicity in mice in- duced by a glycoside extracted from Leigongteng (Radix et Rhizoma Tripterygii) (GRT). METHODS: Forty-eight BALB/c mice were random-ly divided into two groups in the ratio of I : 3, 12 in one group and 36 in the other. The 12-mouse group was the control group that was intragastrical- ly administered physiological saline for 3 weeks. The 36 mice in the other group were given 30 mg- kg ·^-1 d i GRT for 3 weeks, then randomly divided into 3 subgroups: the model group, GRI group and Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) group, with 12 mice in each group. In the model group, 0.25 mL physiological saline was intragastri- cally administered; in the GRT group, GRT, 0.25 mL at 30 mg · kg ^-1· d ^-1 was intragastrically adminis- tered once a day; in the Roucongrong (Herba Cis- tanches Deserticolae) group, mice were adminis- tered Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Deserticolae) decoction equivalent to 0.25 mL at a final dose of 10g.kg 1.d.1 crude drug (calculated as per 20 times of 0.5 g· kg^-1. d ^-1 for adults), and GRT 0.25 mL at 30 mg- kg^-1· d^- 1 daily. After another 3 weeks of exposure, expression levels of the reproduction-re- lated genes DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypep- tide 3, Y-linked, B-cell CLL/lymphoma 6 and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 were evaluated. RESULTS: After 6 weeks of GRT treatment, the sper- matogenic cell population in the convoluted tu- bule of testis was in disorder and the tubule cavity expanded. Sertoli cell and Leydig cells exhibited at- rophy or disappeared. The number of sperm de- creased. The spermatogenic cell level of testis for male mice was ranked in order and sperm was pro- duced in the cavity of the spermatogenic cell. The expression levels of DDX3Y, BCL6 and STAT3 were up-regulated.CONCLUSION: GRT affected reproduction-related genes. Roucongrong (Herba Cistanches Desertico- lae) reversed reproductive toxicity in mice induced by GRT.
基金Supported by a Major Research Project of Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Three-year Action Plan(No.ZYSNXD-CC-ZDYJ034)Shanghai Science and Technology Research Program(No.12401905500)a Development Project of Shanghai Peak Disciplines-Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine(No.20150407)
文摘OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of a series of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) empirical prescriptions with salbutamol and montelukast(SM) in children with asthma.METHODS: A total of 182 children with asthma were randomized into the TCM group(n = 97) or SM group(n = 85). Patients in the TCM group were treated with a series of TCM prescriptions, whereas those in the SM group received salbutamol and montelukast; both groups received their respective treatment for 12 weeks. Asthma control, changes in scores of TCM symptom patterns, and asthma symptom control(SC) scores after treatment were compared between the two groups.RESULTS: A higher percentage of patients in the TCM group had asthma control compared withthose in the SM group(91.67% and 76.83%, respectively, P = 0.006). Scores for abnormal feces(P <0.001), hyperhidrosis(P < 0.001), and tongue appearance(P = 0.001) in the TCM group were significantly better than those in the SM group. However,the total scores of TCM symptom patterns and SC scores did not differ significantly between the two groups(P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: Compared with salbutamol and montelukast, the TCM prescriptions tested were better for symptom control in children with asthma.
基金Supported by National 863 Project-High Performance Computer and Grid Service Environment-Traditional Chinese Medicine Scientific Data Grid Service Applications (2006AA01A122)
文摘OBJECTIVE:Because herbal compatibility is one of the most important reasons why Traditional Chinese Medcine(TCM) formulas are effective for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(AIDS),our study aimed to determine the compatibility of herbs based on published AIDS clinical research in Chinese periodicals.To achieve this aim,we designed a new data-mining algorithm according to TCM data characteristics.METHODS:We found 25 clinical AIDS studies,all using Chinese herbs for treatment,in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Database System,and information on diagnosis and treatment was extracted.To find out herbal compatibility,especially the formulae for herbal combinations,we proposed an improved association rule algorithm based on the frequency of combinations.In this algorithm,all the compatibility relationships were displayed in a tree structure,by which the relationship between formulas and their derivation could be clearly inferred.RESULTS:Data analysis showed that approximately 100 herbs have been used for treating AIDS.Based on the whole herb compatibility tree,we calculated a basic formula for AIDS:Huang Qi combined with Ren Shen,Fu Ling,Bai Zhu,Bai Zhu,Dang Gui,and Bai Shao.This formula,deriving from most of clinical prescriptions,and was chosed by most of clinicians for AIDS treatment.From data mining we found that Qi replenishment and detoxification were the main treatment principles,which coincided with the AIDS pathological mechanism in which immune function is destroyed by human immunodeficiency virus(HIV).CONCLUSIONS:Our data-mining results suggest that the core TCM treatment of AIDS is replenishing Qi and detoxification,by which AIDS patients' immune system may be enhanced.Compatibility of Huang Qi with some frequently-used herbs have shown real efficacy in clinical practice,which warrants pharmacological research in the future.
基金Supported by Fundamental and Frontier Research Fund of Henan Provincial Science and Technology Department(Grant No.15106)Fundamental and Frontier Research Fund of Henan Provincial Science and Technology Department(Grant No.142300410415)
文摘OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of Bushenjianpi prescription(BSJPP), a formula from Traditional Chinese Medicine, on a mouse model of autoimmune premature ovarian failure(POF) induced by mouse zona pellucida(ZP3) and to investigate the mechanisms underlying the action.METHODS: After randomization, POF was induced in the model mice by immunization with ZP3. One week later, mice received low(8.1 mg/kg), moderate(16.2 mg/kg) and high(32.4 mg/kg) doses of BSJPP by gastrogavage once daily for 90 days. Premarin(0.03 mg/kg) served as the positive group. Serum samples were collected 1 week after the last dose and stored at-20 ℃ for analysis. After cervical dislocation, the uterus and ovaries were collected aseptically for evaluation by histological assessment, scanning electron microscopy, immunohistochemical staining, and Western blot and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses.RESULTS: Serum E2 levels in POF model mice were decreased, whereas follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone(LH) levels were dramatically increased. Serum levels of E2,LH and FSH were reduced in POF model mice treated with BSJPP(moderate and high doses) and premarin. Anti-bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP-15) and connexin 43(Cx43) were repressed in autoimmune POF model mice, whereas high expression was observed in control mice and those treated with BSJPP(moderate and high doses)and premarin.CONCLUSION: BSJPP is effective in treating ZP3-induced POF in mice and the increase in the expression of BMP-15 and Cx43 may be implicated in the mechanism underpinning the action.
基金the Construction of Scientific Evidences for Herbal Medicine Formulas(K16251) and Evaluation of Herb-Drug Interactions(No.K16252) grant from the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine(KIOM)
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the influence of Yin-tonification herbal formulas Jaeumganghwa-tang(Ziyin Jianghuo Tang,JEGHT),Ssanghwa-tang(Shuanghe Tang,SHT) and Yukmijihwang-tang(Liuwei Di huang Tang,YMJHT) on the activities of human major cytochrome P450(CYP450 s) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases isozymes(UGTs) in vitro.METHODS:The activities of CYP450 s(CYP1 A2,CYP3 A4,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6 and CYP2 E1) and UGTs(UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7)were assessed using in vitro fluorescence-and luminescence-based enzyme assays,respectively.The effects of herbal formulas on the activities of CYP450 s and UGTs were presented as IC50 values.RESULTS:JEGHT showed the potent inhibition of the CYP2 D6 activity,with weak inhibition on the activities of CYP1 A2,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 E1,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7.SHT inhibited the activities of CYP1 A2 and CYP2 E1,whereas the negligible inhibition of the activities of CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7 through SHT was observed.YMJHT inhibited CYP2 E1 activity,with a negligible inhibition on the activities of CYP1 A2,CYP2 B6,CYP2 C9,CYP2 C19,CYP2 D6,CYP3 A4,UGT1 A1,UGT1 A4 and UGT2 B7.CONCLUSION:These findings provide information about the potential interactions between three Yin-tonification herbal formulas and conventional drugs.
基金National Basic Research Program of China(Dose-Effect Relationship Study of Classical famous Prescription,No.2010CB530601)Beijing Science Society Project(Common technology Demonstration and Research for Boiling Powders of Chinese Materia Medica,No.Z121102001112010)
文摘Powder formulae are an indispensable part of prescription in Traditional Chinese Medicine.Powder formulae are characterized by good therapeutic efficacy and low dose used for their preparation.Analysis of the therapeutic application and material basis of pharmacological active substance in power formulae can enable the development of new powder formulae.This in turn can contribute to reduction of wastage of drug material,relief of shortage of herbal medicinal resources and sustainable development of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
基金Supported by the National Special Science and Technology Program on Major Infectious Diseases(No.2012ZX10005010-001,2012ZX1005001-005,2013ZX100500Z-001)Henan Province Colleges and Universities Key Youth Teachers Scheme(No.2013GGJS-095)+1 种基金Research Project for Practice Development of National TCM Clinical Research Bases(No.JDZX2012023)Henan Province Basic and Advanced Technology Research Project(No.132300413215)
文摘Acquired immune deficiency syndrome(AIDS) is a worldwide public health problem and an incurable disease.The roles of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) on AIDS had been recognized and accepted by more and more people.Being a relatively long period,to initiate combination antiretroviral therapy(cART) for the asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection patient is not consensus.According to TCM theory,not only the imbalance of Yin and Yang but also the disharmony of internal body function and external natural environment had occurred in the body of the patient,the imbalance and the disharmony should be adjusted by the means of the treatment based on the patters identified among the symptoms in terms of TCM.We aimed to analyze the feature of patients with asymptomatic infection,and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the usage of cART for asymptomatic infection,explored the possible mechanism underlying TCM treatment of the asymptomatic infection,by reviewing the TCM treatment progress on asymptomatic HIV infection.