[Specialist examination in clinical chemistry. Voluntary examination for higher competence].

The Swedish Society for Clinical Chemistry has now completed its second board examination for voluntary specialist diploma in clinical chemistry. The first day comprised a 6 hour written examination (about 20 essay questions). The second day was an oral examination in front of five clinical chemists representing different aspects of the specialty, firstly as questions on the subject as a whole and secondly in the form of a seminar where original research work carried out by the examinee was discussed.

Type 2 diabetes. Primary vascular disorder with metabolic symptoms?

It is postulated that in the resting state insulin-dependent tissue uptake of glucose is limited by the rate of blood flow, capillary permeability, and the number of perfused capillaries in the skeletal muscles. A mathematical model, simulating these relations, is developed. According to this model, changes in the indicated parameters might cause type 2 diabetes.

Metabolism and possible health effects of aluminum.

Literature regarding the biochemistry of aluminum and eight similar ions is reviewed. Close and hitherto unknown similarities were found. A hypothetical model is presented for the metabolism, based on documented direct observations of Al3+ and analogies from other ions.