CT of the pulmonary nodule: a cooperative study

To evaluate the role of computed tomography (CT) in the investigation of pulmonary nodules, a special reference phantom that enabled CT densitometric measurements independent of variations between scanners and patients was used in ten institutions. A total of 384 nodules not considered calcified by conventional methods were examined; 118 (31%) proved to be benign, and in 65 of these (55%), unsuspected calcification was demonstrated. In 28 of the 65, definite calcification could be identified on thin-section CT scans by simple inspection of the scans at narrow windows. In the remaining 37, presence of calcification could not be clearly established without comparison with the reference CT number from the calibration phantom. CT was most effective in establishing the benignancy of nodules 3 cm or less in diameter and those with discrete or smooth margins. CT rarely yields a confident diagnosis of benign disease in larger nodules and in those with irregular or spiculated borders. After review of prior spot radiographs, low kilovolt peak spot radiographs, and conventional tomograms, the authors conclude that thin-section CT aided by a reference phantom in equivocal cases should be an integral part of the diagnostic approach to the pulmonary nodule.     

Safety evaluation of Eugenia jambolana seed extract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety of ethanolic seed extract of Eugenia jambolana (EJSE) using acute and sub-chronic toxicity assays in Swiss albino mice as per Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines.MethodsPossible behavioral changes and lethality were observed in mice administered a single dose [1 000, 2 000, 3 000, 4 000 or 5 000 mg/kg body weight (BW)] of EJSE. Plasma levels of metabolic, hepatic, cardiac and renal function markers, electrolytes, blood count and histopathology of major organs were monitored in mice chronically treated with EJSE (1 000, 2 000 or 3 000 mg/kg BW) for 28 days.ResultsSince no mortality was recorded in the acute toxicity evaluation up to a dose of 5 000 mg/kg bodyweight of EJSE, 50% lethal dose (LD₅₀) was assumed to be > 5 000 mg/kg BW. In the sub-chronic toxicity evaluation, no adverse observations were recorded in mice administered with 2 000 mg/kg BW of EJSE; however at 3 000 mg/kg BW dose, moderately significant increase in the plasma levels of urea and creatinine was observed. Hence, the lowest observable adverse effect level (LOAEL) for EJSE was found to be 3 000 mg/kg BW and the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) was adjudged as 2 000 mg/kg BW.ConclusionsIt can be concluded from this study that, orally administered EJSE is safe up to a 10 fold higher dose than its reported therapeutic dose.