Curcumol induces apoptosis in SPC-A-1 human lung adenocarcinoma cells and displays anti-neoplastic effects in tumor bearing mice.

Curcumol is a sesquiterpene originally isolated from curcuma rhizomes, a component of herbal remedies commonly used in oriental medicine. Its beneficial pharmacological activities have attract significant interest recently. In this study, anti-cancer activity of curcumol was examined with both in vitro and in vivo models.

[Application of high-frequency electrocautery combined with high pressure balloon expansion in treatment of benign airway obstruction].

Objective: To study the value of high-frequency electrocautery combined with high-pressure balloon expansion in the treatment of benign airway obstruction.

Methods: Twelve patients with complete airway obstruction received treatment with high-frequency electrocautery and high-pressure balloon expansion, and 6 months of follow-up was performed.

Results: After the initial treatment, the rate of airway obstruction relief exceeded 50% in 8 patients, who showed lung recruitment and an increased dyspnea index, suggesting total effectiveness; one patient showed mild improvement with airway stenosis relief by less than 50% (the upper-left lobe remained obstructed).

[A retrospective cohort study of the influence of time of hospital-acquired pneumonia onset on pathogen constitution].

Objective: To study the influence of duration of hospitalization on etiologic agent and antibiotic-resistance of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP).

Methods: Cases of HAP were patients hospitalized in Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Ruijin Hospital, Beijing Hospital, Zhongshan University Affiliated Third Hospital, Guangzhou Medical College Affiliated Hospital and Guangdong People's Hospital. These patients were hospitalized from January 2001 to December 2003, and the diagnosis of HAP was made based on positive respiratory specimen cultures.