Burden of injuries and diseases in Yunnan Tin Miners

The burden of injuries is underestimated to an even greater extent in developing countries than in industrialized countries. The objective of this paper is to analyze injuries and diseases in the monitored work place of the world's largest tin mining operation in Yunnan, South China.     

Cyclosporin for the treatment of severe inflammatory bowel disease

A pilot study was performed to assess the role of cyclosporin in the management of severe inflammatory bowel disease. Twelve patients with Crohn's disease and 12 with ulcerative colitis were admitted to hospital with a severe attack. They were treated with an intravenous regimen of corticosteroids for 5 days followed by oral therapy. In addition, they received a 6-week course of oral cyclosporin, initially 15 mg kg-1 day-1 reduced to 7.5 mg kg-1 day-1. In comparison with historical controls, the addition of cyclosporin to standard corticosteroid therapy appeared to have no benefit. Adverse effects were common but minor. The expression of Class II molecules on the inflamed epithelium was rapidly reversed by cyclosporin therapy which may indicate a potential therapeutic benefit over longer periods of time.     

Coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft substitutes: preliminary report of radiographic evaluation

A new bone graft substitute made by conversion of the calcium carbonate exoskeleton of reef-building sea coral into hydroxyapatite has recently become clinically available. The normal radiographic appearance of two forms of this material is described. In the immediate postoperative period, the exoskeletal architecture of these implants is readily appreciated. With graft incorporation over the ensuing months, their intrinsic structure is gradually lost in association with poor marginal definition. Evolving radiographic findings reflect the biocompatible nature of these implants, which provides the potential for ingrowth of native bone with preservation of the coralline scaffold, resulting in enhanced biomechanical properties.