Polymerase Chain Reaction on In-cage Filter Paper at Different Time Points to Detect Helicobacter spp

Helicobacter spp. infections in mice can have broad-ranging effects on gastrointestinal, reproductive, and immune systems. This can introduce significant confounding variables for research and may reduce scientific rigor. Screening mouse colonies for Helicobacter species can be accomplished via noninvasive PCR testing on filter paper placed in animal-free dirty bedding sentinel cages. In our facility, one tablespoon of dirty bedding from each cage on a rack is added to a designated sentinel cage every 3 wk at cage change, and PCR testing is performed on in-cage filter paper quarterly. We hypothesized that cages that received Helicobacter spp.-positive bedding at later time points would have a lower detection rate of Helicobacter spp. with PCR testing compared with cages that received positive bedding at earlier time points due to the filter paper becoming saturated. To determine if screening would be able to detect one positive row of cages on a rack, 9 tablespoons of Helicobacter-positive bedding and 71 tablespoons of negative bedding were added at the 3-, 6-, or 9-wk time points to 14 empty sentinel cages per time point. Negative bedding was added every 3 wk to cages not scheduled to receive positive bedding. Negative controls received 80 tablespoons of negative bedding and positive controls received 80 tablespoons of positive bedding at each time point. Filter paper was tested via PCR for Helicobacter spp. at 12 wk. All positive controls tested positive, and all negative controls tested negative. Two 3-wk cages, two 6-wk cages, and three 9-wk cages were positive, indicating no difference between time points. This resulted in a 16.7% Helicobacter spp. detection rate. These results indicate that PCR on in-cage filter paper may not be reliable in detecting low levels of Helicobacter spp. nucleic acid in dirty bedding.

Comparison of Plenum and Cage-level Filter Exhaust Dust PCR Testing to Soiled Bedding Sentinel Mice (Mus musculus) on an IVC Rack

The use of soiled-bedded sentinels (SBSs) has historically been the standard for colony health surveillance monitoring at our institution. With the advent of newer technologies in which dust collected from filters is tested by PCR, we compared traditional SBS with PCR testing of both exhaust air dust collected from a filter in the downstream vertical plenum (exhaust dust test [EDT]) and the SBS cage-level exhaust filter (SCEF). Our hypothesis was that both methods of filter testing would identify more pathogens than SBS testing. Twenty-five individually ventilated mouse racks that used disposable caging were sanitized and placed into rotation. Rack plenums were tested by PCR to verify negative results before the study start. Exhaust dust collection media were placed in the exhaust plenum (n = 25). SBS cages were placed on each side of the rack with 2 mice per cage (n = 42 mice), with the remaining cage slots occupied by research animals. At each triweekly cage change, the exhaust air filters were carefully removed from the cage top, placed in sterile 50-mL conical tubes, and pooled for submission. After 3 mo, the SBS mice were tested via serology for bacterial and viral agents and by PCR for Helicobacter species, pinworms, and ectoparasites. In addition, the EDT filter and SCEF were collected for PCR to evaluate for the same agents. Our results indicate that the SCEF consistently detected agents more frequently than the EDT filter placed in the plenum and that the EDT filter media detected agents more frequently than did the SBS mice. Our data suggest that both PCR methods of detection are superior to SBS for individually ventilated disposable rodent cages and that the SCEF is superior to EDT. These data supported our movement of institution toward environmental monitoring as a method of rodent colony health surveillance.

Regenerative Engineering of a Biphasic Patient-Fitted Temporomandibular Joint Condylar Prosthesis

Regenerative medicine approaches to restore the mandibular condyle of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may fill an unmet patient need. In this study, a method to implant an acellular regenerative TMJ prosthesis was developed for orthotopic implantation in a pilot goat study. The scaffold incorporated a porous, polycaprolactone-hydroxyapatite (PCL-HAp, 20wt% HAp) 3D printed condyle with a cartilage-matrix-containing hydrogel. A series of material characterizations was used to determine the structure, fluid transport, and mechanical properties of 3D printed PCL-HAp. To promote marrow uptake for cell seeding, a scaffold pore size of 152 ± 68 μm resulted in a whole blood transport initial velocity of 3.7 ± 1.2 mm·s-1 transported to the full 1 cm height. The Young's modulus of PCL was increased by 67% with the addition of HAp, resulting in a stiffness of 269 ± 20 MPa for etched PCL-HAp. In addition, the bending modulus increased by 2.06-fold with the addition of HAp to 470 MPa for PCL-HAp. The prosthesis design with an integrated hydrogel was compared with unoperated contralateral control and no-hydrogel group in a goat model for 6 months. A guide was used to make the condylectomy cut, and the TMJ disc was preserved. MicroCT assessment of bone suggested variable tissue responses with some regions of bone growth and loss, although more loss may have been exhibited by the hydrogel group than the no-hydrogel group. A benchtop load transmission test suggested that the prosthesis was not shielding load to the underlying bone. Although variable, signs of neocartilage formation were exhibited by Alcian blue and collagen II staining on the anterior, functional surface of the condyle. Overall, this study demonstrated signs of functional TMJ restoration with an acellular prosthesis. There were apparent limitations to continuous, reproducible bone formation, and stratified zonal cartilage regeneration. Future work may refine the prosthesis design for a regenerative TMJ prosthesis amenable to clinical translation.

Bringing psychologists to the fight against deep poverty

This article describes the history, inspiration, goals, and outputs of the 2019 APA Presidential Initiative on Deep Poverty. Historically, psychologists have contributed to understanding the causes and consequences of poverty, as well as in interventions to ameliorate its effects. Less attention has been paid, however, to psychologists' unique contributions to studying and ending deep poverty, despite psychology's obvious relevance to the topic. As such, a working group was formed to develop the Deep Poverty Initiative (DPI), which had 3 main goals to engage psychologists in the fight against deep poverty: (a) change attitudes and perceptions about people living in deep poverty, (b) change policy to increase support for safety-net programs, and (c) change practices by increasing the use of psychological science and practice to build the capacity of poverty-serving organizations. First, 5 main themes from the psychological literature on deep poverty were identified by the DPI working group as crucial to changing attitudes. Compared to poverty, deep poverty was found to be especially dehumanizing, difficult to exit, and complex to solve, while also causing additional physical and psychological harm and obscuring human strengths. With this information as a basis, the working group mobilized psychologists to use the psychological science, along with their skills and positions within communities, to achieve the remaining goals of the initiative. Specific outputs, lessons learned, and suggestions for future work to continue to bring psychologists to the fight against deep poverty are given. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Evaluation of Peripheral Blood Markers as Early Endpoint Criteria in Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus) when Testing Tuberculosis Vaccine Candidates

The guinea pig model of tuberculosis is used extensively to assess the efficacy of novel tuberculosis vaccines. There are established parameters to determine vaccine efficacy in this model, but the science community currently lacks established biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of experimental disease in guinea pigs. To define a set of biomarkers that could be used as benchmarks for disease progression and early endpoint criteria, we assessed serum biochemical and hematology parameters in 2 groups of guinea pigs-one vaccinated with the attenuated Mycobacterium bovis vaccine strain (BCG) and one sham-vaccinated with saline-and then experimentally infected with a virulent strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. After infection, WBC showed the strongest differences between saline-inoculated and vaccinated animals, with more subtle changes in other serum biochemical parameters, including ALT and ALP. Therefore, this study provides a starting point for evaluating the utility of blood values as possible early endpoint criteria in the guinea pig model of tuberculosis.

Cell signal transduction: hormones, neurotransmitters and therapeutic drugs relate to purine nucleotide structure

Purine nucleotides transduce cell membrane receptor responses and modulate ion channel activity. This is accomplished through conformational change in the structure of nucleotides and cell membrane associated proteins. The aim of this study is to enhance our understanding of nucleotide dependence in regard to signal transduction events, drug action and pharmacological promiscuity. Nucleotides and ligand structures regulating Gα protein subunits, voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels are investigated for molecular similarity using a computational program. Results differentiate agonist and antagonist structures, identify molecular similarity within nucleotide and ligand structures and demonstrate the potential of ligands to regulate nucleotide conformational change. Relative molecular similarity within nucleotides and the ligands of the major receptor classes provides insight into mechanisms of receptor and ion channel regulation. The nucleotide template model has some merit as an initial screening tool in the study and comparison of drug and hormone structures.

Blood collection in the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)

Guinea pigs are useful animal models for the study of many human diseases including diabetes mellitus and infectious diseases. Often, these studies involve collecting blood samples of considerable volume. This column describes safe techniques for restraint and blood collection from the jugular vein and cranial vena cava from alert and anesthetized guinea pigs.

Safety and Immunogenicity of a Combination: Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Vaccine (ProQuad®)

BACKGROUND

A combination measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccine (ProQuad, Merck & Co., Inc, West Point, PA) was evaluated in five clinical trials. Use of ProQuad would result in fewer injections for children and would facilitate universal immunization against all four diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the combined results obtained from the studies conducted during the clinical development program for ProQuad.

METHODS

A total of 5833 healthy children, 12-23 months of age, and 399 healthy children, 4-6 years of age, received 1 or 2 doses of ProQuad in five controlled clinical trials. M-M-R II and VARIVAX were used as the control for most studies. Safety was evaluated for six weeks postvaccination and immunogenicity was assessed six weeks after each dose by a sensitive assay (ELISA or gpELISA).

RESULTS

A single dose of ProQuad in 12- to 23-month-old children was shown to be as immunogenic as a single dose of M-M-R II and VARIVAX and was generally well tolerated. ProQuad can be used concomitantly with other vaccines (hepatitis B and Hoemophilus influenzoe b). A higher rate of fever was reported after 1 dose of ProQuad compared to M-M-R II and VARIVAX, but fever episodes were transient without long-term sequelae. Both a 2-dose regimen of ProQuad in 12- to 23-month-olds and use of ProQuad in place of M-M-R II at 4-6 years were shown to be immunogenic and well tolerated. The incidence of adverse experiences following a second dose of ProQuad was lower than that following the initial dose.

CONCLUSIONS

A single dose of ProQuad is as immunogenic as M-M-R II and VARIVAX and is well tolerated in a 1- or 2-dose schedule. ProQuad should easily fit into the routine immunization schedule.

Exploratory study to evaluate the provision of additional midwifery support to teenage mothers

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the provision of psychosocial interventions of potential benefit to pregnant teenage women.

STUDY DESIGN

Pre-test/post-test, controlled, experimental design.

METHODS

One hundred and sixty-four pregnant teenage women received usual midwifery care or usual midwifery care plus additional psychosocial support. Four outcomes were measured at baseline and 4 weeks after delivery: self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), social support (Short Form Social Support Questionnaire) and smoking behaviour (yes/no).

RESULTS

At follow-up, there were no significant differences in any of these outcomes between the 65 women in the intervention group and the 64 women in the control group who completed both assessments (mean age 17.5 years). There was no difference in use of National Health Service (NHS) services, but the intervention group made greater use of non-NHS services, such as family planning or help with housing or benefits problems.

CONCLUSION

The very low self-esteem of the women in the study may indicate that the intervention was not sufficiently robust to impact on mental health and lifestyle, although a longer follow-up may be needed to confirm this. Discrepancy in the evidence provided by formal and informal data suggests that project benefits may have been more evident if the evaluation had included a qualitative element to address the complexity of the client group and intervention.

Diagnostic trends in autistic spectrum disorders in the South Wales valleys

This study provides an analysis of the diagnostic trends in autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) for children aged under 17 years in the Rhondda and Taff Ely districts of South Wales. In the period 1988-2004, 336 children received a diagnosis of ASD and represent the case registry data of one community paediatric team. For the period 1994-2003, the caseload of 267 comprised Asperger (58%), Kanner (20%) and ;other forms' of autism (22%). In comparison to the previous 5 year period, diagnosis of ASD in 1999-2003 increased for Asperger (2.9 fold) and ;other forms' (4.4) but decreased for Kanner autism (0.69). Male:female gender ratios and age at diagnosis fell for all subcategories of ASD. Prevalences per 10,000 children born in Rhondda Taff Ely are ASD 61.2, Asperger 35.4, Kanner autism 12.7, and 'other forms' 13.0. Detected prevalences and trends for ASD are in line with national standards and do not show an increase for Kanner autism.

Voltage-gated Na+ channel ligands and ATP: relative molecular similarity and implications for channel function

The voltage-gated sodium channel (VGNC) is targeted by naturally occurring ligands and drugs of diverse structure. ATP modulates VGNC current in-vitro but is given little prominence in models describing channel function. This computational study uses superimposition and molecular fitting to investigate relative molecular similarity within the structures of ATP and VGNC ligands. A motif of 3 linked atoms (C-N-C) in the adenine ring of ATP satisfies the fitting of a wide range of anticonvulsant structures. An alternative group (N-C-N) provides one fitting motif for the ester and amide groups of local anaesthetic drugs; protonated amine and aromatic groups in the same conformers fit to a second motif in the adenine ring. Analogous structures from other drug classes with VGNC blocking activity give the same molecular fits to ATP. Structures fitted to the adenine ring of ATP occlude the intra-molecular space between the nucleoside and triphosphate chain in approximation to their established blocking, activating or neutral effects on Na+ current. The findings are discussed in terms of drug preferences for VGNC states and channel requirements for ATP.

The safety and immunogenicity of a quadrivalent measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine in healthy children: a study of manufacturing consistency and persistence of antibody

BACKGROUND

This clinical trial was conducted to demonstrate that each of 3 consistency lots of a combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine (MMRV) would be well tolerated, induce clinically acceptable and similar immune responses to each antigen and induce immune responses similar to measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) administered concomitantly with varicella vaccine (V). An additional objective was to evaluate the persistence of antibodies 1 year postvaccination.

METHODS

Study participants 12 to 23 months of age received a single injection of either one of 3 consistency lots of MMRV or MMR + V administered at separate injection sites.

RESULTS

A total of 3,928 healthy children were enrolled at study sites in the United States and Canada. Immune responses to measles, mumps, rubella and varicella in children immunized with each of 3 lots of MMRV were similar and the combined response to all 3 lots was comparable to that of the control group. The 1-year antibody persistence rates for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella viruses were each greater than 95% and comparable among the recipients of the 3 consistency lots of MMRV and the control group. All vaccines were generally well tolerated during the 42 days after vaccination and the overall incidence of adverse experiences was comparable between recipients of MMRV and MMR + V. Rates of fever (temperature >or=38.9 degrees C oral equivalent or tactile) were greater in recipients of MMRV than in recipients of MMR + V (39.1% versus 33.1%, P = 0.001). Fevers were transient and there was no difference in the incidence of febrile seizures.

CONCLUSIONS

MMRV was generally well tolerated and had comparable immunogenicity and overall safety profiles to MMR + V administered concomitantly. Long-term persistence of antibodies after receipt of MMRV is expected based on similar antibody titers against all 4 antigens 1 year postvaccination compared with recipients of MMR and V.

Dose-response study of a quadrivalent measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine in healthy children

BACKGROUND

A combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine would facilitate universal immunization against 4 diseases by decreasing the number of injections and thus enhancing compliance and coverage rates. If a second dose of varicella vaccine were to be recommended, MMRV could be used to administer a routine second dose of M-M-RII with the added advantage of boosting varicella-zoster virus (VZV) antibody titers.

METHODS

Subjects 12-23 months of age received a single injection of 1 of 3 lots of an MMRV vaccine (ProQuad) containing high, middle or low VZV potency, or VARIVAX given concomitantly with M-M-RII. Recipients of MMRV received a second injection of MMRV approximately 90 days later.

RESULTS

We enrolled 1559 subjects in the study. Antibody response rates to VZV 6 weeks after 1 injection of high potency MMRV (88.6%) or 2 injections of MMRV of any varicella potency (99.7-100%) were similar to the response rates after concomitant administration of M-M-RII and VARIVAX (93.1%). The second injection of MMRV boosted VZV antibody titers. Antibody responses to measles, mumps and rubella were >or=98%, similar to the control, after 1 or 2 injections of MMRV. MMRV was generally well-tolerated during the 42 days after vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

One injection of high potency MMRV resulted in antibody responses to the 4 vaccine components equivalent to those found after concomitant administration of M-M-RII and VARIVAX. A second injection of MMRV resulted in a significant boost in VZV antibody. This boost may translate into enhanced immunogenicity against varicella, which is known to correlate with increased protection.

Receptor regulatory properties evident in the molecular similarity of serotonin receptor ligands and purine nucleotides

Previous computational studies have explored the relative molecular similarity inherent in the ligands of neurotransmitter-regulated cell receptors and purine nucleotides. This study presents the results of an investigation of the major serotonin (5-HT) receptor classes, using molecular superimposition and fitting data. Ligands for 5HT(1B/C/D) and 5HT(4/7) receptors identified pharmacophores in the adenine ring of ATP. 5-HT(2) and 5-HT(3) receptor ligands identified pharmacophores in the guanosine nucleotide and cyclic nucleotide, respectively. The described molecular similarity is consistent with the cyclic nucleotide responses observed during signal transduction events initiated by 5-HT, and the reported similarity between ligands of the 5-HT(1B) and 5-HT(1D), 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(7), and 5-HT(4) and 5-HT(3) receptors. The results are discussed in terms of current pharmacophoric models and signal transduction events involving interaction between G-protein receptors and catalytic sites.

Hyperopia and educational attainment in a primary school cohort

BACKGROUND

Vision screening addresses the visual impairments that impact on child development. Tests of long-sightedness are not found in most school screening programmes. The evidence linking mild-moderate hyperopia and lack of progress in school is insufficient, although strengthened by recent findings of developmental problems in infants.

AIMS

To report on the relation between hyperopia and education test results in a cohort of primary school children.

METHODS

A total of 1298 children, aged 8 years, were screened for hyperopia on the basis of fogging test results. School test results (NFER and SATs) were compared between groups categorised by referral status and refractive error.

RESULTS

A total of 166 (12.8%) fogging test failures were referred for ophthalmic assessment. Ophthalmic tests on 105 children provided an accurate diagnosis of vision defects, for reference to their education scores. Fifty per cent of the children examined by optometrists required an intervention (prescription change, glasses prescribed, or referral). Mean (95% CI) NFER scores of children with refractive errors (summed for both eyes) >+3D (98.4, 93.0-103.8, n = 32) or >+1.25D (best eye) (99.3, 93.0-105.6, n = 26) were lower than the respective scores of children with a less positive refractive state (104.8, 100.7-108.9, n = 43) (103.6, 99.7-107.4, n = 49), the non-referred group, and total sample. The SATs results followed a similar trend. A high proportion of the fogging test failures (16%) and confirmed hyperopes (29%) had been referred to an educational psychologist, and the latter group contributed substantially to the poor education scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide further evidence for a link between hyperopia and impaired literacy standards in children.

Accidents in the school environment: perspectives of staff concerned with data collection and reporting procedures

School-accident reports document incidents that have resulted in children requiring assistance from staff in the education and healthcare sectors. This study was undertaken to investigate the collection and use of data by agencies concerned with the school-accident problem. Our aim was to determine if the annual collection and use of such a large body of data might be improved through better management procedures. Interviews were conducted with primary and secondary school staff in one education authority. Interviewees completed a questionnaire on accident activity and accident reporting in their school. In the healthcare sector, staff from the Schools' Office and the ambulance unit servicing the schools provided information on their collection and use of data. Our survey found that accident activity is usually a private matter for individual schools, shared to varying degrees with the education authority. Playgrounds, children's behaviour and footwear carried much of the blame for the injuries sustained. Staff generally accepted the current accident rates. The compilation of accident data by the Schools' Office, accident and emergency department, and ambulance service were compromised by deficiencies in computerization and computer software. The management and utilization of school-accident data could be improved by better collaboration within and between the education and healthcare agencies.

Receptor regulatory properties evident in the molecular similarity of dopamine receptor ligands and purine nucleotides

Computational studies have revealed similarities in the relative configurations of purine nucleotides and ligands for histamine, acetylcholine and adrenergic receptors. In common with other G-protein-regulated receptors, dopamine receptors are associated with specific changes in nucleotide levels during signal transduction processes. The purpose of this study was to investigate molecular similarity in dopamine receptor ligands and purine nucleotides. Molecular superimposition and fitting data for D1-like receptor ligands identified a pharmacophore in the adenine and ribose rings of ATP. D2-like agonists and antagonists related to a pharmacophore in the guanine and ribose rings of GTP. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that the dopamine receptor family may have evolved from receptors for the ATP and GTP nucleotides.

Primary school accident reporting in one education authority

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown a correlation between increased accident rates and levels of deprivation in the community. School accident reporting is one area where an association might be expected.

AIMS

To investigate differences in primary school accident rates in deprived and more affluent wards, in an area managed by one education authority.

METHODS

Statistical analysis of accident form returns for 100 primary schools in one education authority in Wales over a two year period, in conjunction with visits to over one third of school sites.

RESULTS

Accident report rates from schools in deprived wards were three times higher than those from schools in more affluent wards. School visits showed that this discrepancy was attributable primarily to differences in reporting procedures. One third of schools did not report accidents and approximately half did not keep records of minor accidents.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between school accident report rates and deprivation in the community is complex. School accident data from local education authorities may be unreliable for most purposes of collection.

Secondary school accident reporting in one education authority

BACKGROUND

Secondary schools appear to have very different accident rates when they are compared on the basis of accident report returns. The variation may be as a result of real differences in accident rates or different reporting procedures. This study investigates accident reporting from secondary schools and, in particular, the role of the school nurse.

METHODS

Accident form returns covering a 2-year period were collected for statistical analysis from 13 comprehensive schools in one local education authority in Wales. School sites were visited in the following school year to obtain information about accident records held on site and accident reporting procedures.

RESULTS

The main factors determining the number of school accident reports submitted to the education authority relate to differences in recording and reporting procedures, such as the employment of a nurse and the policy of the head teacher/safety officer on submitting accident returns. Accident and emergency department referrals from similar schools may show significant differences in specific injuries and their causes.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of school accident activity cannot be gauged from reports submitted to the education authority. Lack of incentives for collecting good accident data, in conjunction with the degree of complacency in the current system, suggest that future accident rates and reporting activity are unlikely to change.

Near-precise interchromosomal recombination and functional DNA topoisomerase II cleavage sites at MLL and AF-4 genomic breakpoints in treatment-related acute lymphoblastic leukemia with t(4;11) translocation

We analyzed the der(11) and der(4) genomic breakpoint junctions of a t(4;11) in the leukemia of a patient previously administered etoposide and dactinomycin by molecular and biochemical approaches to gain insights about the translocation mechanism and the relevant drug exposure. The genomic breakpoint junctions were amplified by PCR. Cleavage of DNA substrates containing the normal homologues of the MLL and AF-4 translocation breakpoints was examined in vitro upon incubation with human DNA topoisomerase IIalpha and etoposide, etoposide catechol, etoposide quinone, or dactinomycin. The der(11) and der(4) genomic breakpoint junctions both involved MLL intron 6 and AF-4 intron 3. Recombination was precise at the sequence level except for the overall gain of a single templated nucleotide. The translocation breakpoints in MLL and AF-4 were DNA topoisomerase II cleavage sites. Etoposide and its metabolites, but not dactinomycin, enhanced cleavage at these sites. Assuming that DNA topoisomerase II was the mediator of the breakage, processing of the staggered nicks induced by DNA topoisomerase II, including exonucleolytic deletion and template-directed polymerization, would have been required before ligation of the ends to generate the observed genomic breakpoint junctions. These data are inconsistent with a translocation mechanism involving interchromosomal recombination by simple exchange of DNA topoisomerase II subunits and DNA-strand transfer; however, consistent with reciprocal DNA topoisomerase II cleavage events in MLL and AF-4 in which both breaks became stable, the DNA ends were processed and underwent ligation. Etoposide and/or its metabolites, but not dactinomycin, likely were the relevant exposures in this patient.

Structure of outcome beliefs in condom use. The Project RESPECT Study Group

To study the structure of beliefs about condom use outcomes, the authors derived and tested 4 psychosocial hypothetical models: (a) a 2-factor model of the personal and social outcomes of condom use; (b) a 2-factor model of the pros and cons of the behavior; (c) a 3-factor model (i.e., physical, self-evaluative, and social) of outcome expectancies; and (d) a thematic 4-factor model of the protection, self-concept, pleasure, and interaction implications of the behavior. All 4 models were studied with a confirmatory factor analysis approach in a multisite study of 4,638 participants, and the thematic solution was consistently the most plausible. Self-concept and pleasure were most strongly associated with attitudes toward using condoms, intentions to use condoms, and actual condom use, whereas protection and interaction generally had little influence.

Structure of outcome beliefs in condom use. The Project RESPECT Study Group

To study the structure of beliefs about condom use outcomes, the authors derived and tested 4 psychosocial hypothetical models: (a) a 2-factor model of the personal and social outcomes of condom use; (b) a 2-factor model of the pros and cons of the behavior; (c) a 3-factor model (i.e., physical, self-evaluative, and social) of outcome expectancies; and (d) a thematic 4-factor model of the protection, self-concept, pleasure, and interaction implications of the behavior. All 4 models were studied with a confirmatory factor analysis approach in a multisite study of 4,638 participants, and the thematic solution was consistently the most plausible. Self-concept and pleasure were most strongly associated with attitudes toward using condoms, intentions to use condoms, and actual condom use, whereas protection and interaction generally had little influence.

Student nurse satisfaction: implications for the common foundation programme

This decade has seen a major restructuring of pre-registration nurse education within the higher education system that was costly and initially largely unpopular with qualified nurses and students. Major flaws have been identified in the common foundation programme (CFP) and student attrition rates remain too high. Our detailed survey of student satisfaction within the CFP shows that clinical placement is the most popular course component and that poor organization remains the worst aspect of the course. Teaching was more highly regarded than the organizational component of the course, although students found room for improvement. Core teaching modules such as bioscience and nursing interventions achieved better ratings than supporting modules, for example social policy or research and reflection on practice. The establishment of contact between personal tutors and students appeared to be slow. The described deficiencies have since been addressed in curriculum planning and the development of new course structure.

Discontinuation, leaving reasons and course evaluation comments of students on the common foundation programme

There is considerable financial incentive, at all levels, to reduce student nurse wastage and maintain recruitment to a workforce of professional nurses. This strategy is being pursued in a period following major educational change, when the attrition levels and leaving reasons of students need to be reassessed. Previous reports have identified a high voluntary loss of students on the common foundation programme (CFP) of the pre-registration nursing course. In order to achieve a better understanding of the basic problems faced by student nurses who consider leaving the CFP, questionnaires were distributed to three groups of students: current CFP students; students who had completed the CFP; and students who had discontinued training. The questionnaire responses show that course-based problems, identified as prime leaving reasons by the current and completed student groups, differ from the actual leaving reasons of discontinued students obtained by exit questionnaire. The attitudes of participating and discontinued students to theory, clinical and pastoral components of the CFP are not dissimilar. Some trends in attrition rate relate significantly to student category. Our results have implications for the management of student nurse attrition.

Chronic and recovered cases of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever in cattle

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is traditionally regarded as a disease with a short clinical course, low morbidity and high case fatality rate. Owing to the limitations of the assays used for laboratory diagnosis. It was difficult in characterise the clinical spectrum of sheep-associated MCF, particularly when the cattle recovered from an MCF-like clinical syndrome. Over a period of three years, 11 cattle that survived MCF for up to two-and-a-half years were identified on four premises. A clinical diagnosis of MCF was confirmed by the detection of ovine herpesvirus-2 DNA in peripheral blood leucocytes using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay that detects a specific 238 base-pair fragment of viral genomic DNA. Of the 11 cattle examined, six recovered clinically with the exception of bilateral corneal oedema with stromal keratitis (four animals) and unilateral perforating keratitis (one animal). The 10 animals available for postmortem examination had disseminated subacute to chronic arteriopathy. Recovery was associated with the resolution of the acute lymphoid panarteritis that characterises the acute phase of MCF, and with the development of generalised chronic obliterative arteriosclerosis. Bilateral leucomata were due in part to the focal destruction of corneal endothelium secondary to acute endothelialitis. Formalin-fixed tissues and/or unfixed lymphoid cells from all 11 cattle were positive for sheep-associated MCF by PCR. These observations indicate that recovery and chronic disease are a significant part of the clinical spectrum of MCF and that such cases occur with some frequency in the area studied. The affected cattle remain persistently infected by the putative sheep-associated MCF gammaherpesvirus.

In vitro displacement of vasoactive mediators from plasma proteins: a possible mechanism for pseudo-allergic reactions to neuromuscular blocking drugs

We have studied the release of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and histamine from serum proteins by neuromuscular blocking drugs using equilibrium dialysis, with tracer quantities of radio-labelled mediators as probes. Small concentrations (0.05-0.25 mmol litre-1) of competitive neuromuscular blocking drugs displaced 16-67% of bound histamine. Greater concentrations of suxamethonium (2 mmol litre-1) were required for histamine displacement (19%). There was a significant release of PGF2 alpha by atracurium 1 mmol litre-1 and pancuronium 0.69 mmol litre-1. These findings suggest an alternative mechanism of histamine release by neuromuscular blocking drugs which may be relevant to adverse reactions during use.

Segregation analysis of cancer in families of childhood soft-tissue-sarcoma patients

This paper presents the analysis of familial cancer data collected in a hospital-based study of 159 childhood soft-tissue-sarcoma patients. Two different statistical models detected excess aggregation of cancer, which could be explained by a rare dominant gene. For each kindred, we estimated the probability of the observed cancer distribution under the dominant-gene model and identified 12 families that are the most likely to be segregating the gene. Two of those families have confirmed germ-line mutations in the p53 tumor-suppressor gene. The relative risk of affection for children who are gene carriers was estimated to be 100 times the background rate. Females were found to have a slightly higher age-specific penetrance, but maternal and paternal lineages made equal contributions to the evidence in favor of the dominant gene. The proband's histology, ethnicity, and age at diagnosis were evaluated to determine whether any of these altered the probability of affection in family members. Only embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma was found to be a significant covariate under the dominant-gene model. While molecular genetic studies of familial cancer will eventually provide answers to the questions of genetic heterogeneity, age- and site-specific penetrance, mutation rates, and gene frequency, information from statistical models is useful for setting priorities and defining hypotheses.

The Li-Fraumeni syndrome: from clinical epidemiology to molecular genetics

The goal of this review is to demonstrate the effective interaction of epidemiologic methods and molecular genetics in the identification of familial cancer predisposition. The example involves a hospital-based population of childhood soft tissue sarcoma patients who were less than age 16 years at diagnosis at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, in 1944 through 1976, had survived at least 3 years from diagnosis, and were diagnosed at least 5 years before the start of our study. Familial data were collected on the patients' offspring, full siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. The initial analysis revealed a small but significant cancer excess in first-degree relatives. Genetic analysis demonstrated that the cancer distribution in families could best be explained by a rare autosomal dominant gene with penetrance such that the risk of cancer by age 35 years was nearly 50%. Most of the evidence for a dominant gene came from nine kindreds. Laboratory investigation of fibroblasts from those kindreds provided an in vitro model of cellular immortalization and carcinogenesis. Germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene p53 were found in two of the families, and studies are ongoing in the other kindreds. This review demonstrates the power of genetic epidemiologic methods to characterize statistically a cancer-predisposing gene and the application of molecular genetics to define the genetic defect.

Sensitivity of Salmonella typhimurium TA97a to the type of agar used for preparation of Vogel-Bonner plates

Recent problems with the supply of Difco bacto agar have forced some laboratories to evaluate alternative agars for use in the Salmonella/microsome assay. This led to the independent observation in two laboratories (Boots and Glaxo) that Salmonella typhimurium TA97a is sensitive to certain types of agar that may be used to prepare Vogel-Bonner minimal medium plates. A programme of work was, therefore, undertaken to investigate this phenomenon; 9-aminoacridine hydrochloride (at Boots) and 4-nitro-o-phenylenediamine (at Glaxo) were tested against TA1537 and TA97a using Vogel-Bonner plates prepared with a number of different agars. Three agars (Lab M, Difco Bi-tek and Beckton Dickinson granulated) were identified which, although supporting normal growth of TA1537 revertant colonies, gave much reduced control counts and responses to the mutagens with TA97a. One agar, Becton Dickinson grade A, gave poor responses with TA1537 but produced satisfactory results with TA97a. In contrast to the Vogel-Bonner plates, varying the type of agar used in the top agar overlays had little effect on the responses obtained. On the basis of these comparisons, Becton Dickinson purified agar was selected as a suitable alternative to Difco bacto and it was concluded that laboratories using agars other than these, or purchasing pre-poured plates without specifying the type of agar, should be made aware of potential problems with TA97a.

Inhalation and nasal challenge in the diagnosis of aspirin-induced asthma

Inhalation and nasal aspirin challenge has been investigated in asthma patients with co-existing rhinitis. Eight of 39 asthma patients were diagnosed as aspirin-sensitive on the basis of inhalation challenge. Seven aspirin-sensitive asthmatics were subjected to nasal aspirin provocation. During nasal challenge, all seven patients experienced a fall in FEV1 of at least 15%, two showed a significant increase (greater than 400%) in nasal airways resistance (NAR) and one developed urticaria. No significant changes in FEV1 or NAR were observed in nine normal subjects after aspirin inhalation and nasal challenge. There were no significant changes in FEV1 or NAR in six aspirin-tolerant asthmatics when aspirin was given intranasally. The results of this study show that aspirin nasal provocation impairs lung function in aspirin-sensitive asthmatics. In comparison with inhalation challenge responses are generally milder and easier to control. Nasal challenge is also less time-consuming than other methods of aspirin challenge and is therefore more suitable for routine use.

Aspirin-sensitive asthma: significance of the cyclooxygenase-inhibiting and protein-binding properties of analgesic drugs

The in vitro release of endogenous and exogenous PgF2 alpha from plasma and serum proteins by aspirin and other analgesic drugs has been studied by RIA and equilibrium-dialysis techniques, respectively. Before aspirin addition, the mean plasma level of PgF2 alpha measured by RIA was significantly lower in aspirin-sensitive asthma (ASA) patients (11.3 +/- 6.5 pg/ml; n = 8) than in aspirin-tolerant asthma (ATA) patients (25.0 +/- 11.4 pg/ml; n = 21). After aspirin addition (50 micrograms/ml) the mean PgF2 alpha level detected in plasma by RIA was higher in ASA patients (97.6 +/- 5.5 pg/ml) than in ATA patients (66.9 +/- 4.5). The binding of [3H]PgF2 alpha to serum protein was significantly inhibited by NSAIDs but not by paracetamol (0.2-1.0 mM). These results implicate PgF2 alpha and the protein-binding property of analgesic drugs in the pathogenesis of aspirin-sensitive asthma.

In vitro tests for the diagnosis of aspirin-sensitive asthma

In patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma, no significant changes in plasma beta-thromboglobulin or bicyclic prostaglandin (PG) E2 were observed during aspirin challenge. The addition of aspirin to platelet suspensions from patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma produced no detectable chemiluminescence. Small concentrations of aspirin generated PGF2 alpha but not PGE2 or PGD2 from plasma in vitro. PGF2 alpha levels were significantly higher in plasma from aspirin-sensitive patients and distinguished aspirin-sensitive from aspirin-tolerant patients with asthma. The results of this study suggest that the displacement of protein-bound PGF2 alpha may be of importance in the pathogenesis of aspirin-induced asthma.

Isonymic analysis of post-famine relationships in the Ards Peninsula, N.E. Ireland: Effects of geographical and politico-religious boundaries

During and in the decades after the Irish Famine of 1846 to 1851, the population of the Ards Peninsula, Co. Down, both declined in numbers and changed in its composition. In 1863 the surnames of all resident householders were collected as part of a national valuation. These data have been used to calculate random isonymy values between civil parishes and the resultant matrix plotted by nonmetric multidimensional scaling. The results revealed both a major geographical barrier to gene flow, and politico-religious boundaries in existence since the early 17th century. The inter-relationships between random isonymy, geographical distance, and religious denominational frequencies within the peninsula were investigated by multiple regression analysis. While geographical influences predominated over short and long distances, in the intermediate distance range religion played the dominant role. The net effect of these subdivisions, in combination with famine-associated population losses, would have been to reduce local effective population sizes significantly, thus enhancing the potential for genetic drift and random inbreeding.

Laser fluorometric detection of porphyrin methyl esters for high-performance thin-layer chromatography

A new detection method is presented for the determination of porphyrins present in biological materials. Separation is accomplished by high-performance thin-layer chromatography after esterification of individual carboxylic acid porphyrins. Detection is achieved by utilizing one of the visible lines of an argon-ion laser for fluorometric excitation. Good selectivity and detectability are demonstrated for the determination of porphyrin profiles in human urine. The detection limits for uro-, heptacarboxy-, hexacarboxy-, pentacarboxy-, copro-, and mesoporphyrin methyl esters are in the 18-35 pg range.

Aspirin-like effects of selected food additives and industrial sensitizing agents

A number of food additives and industrial chemicals, responsible for inducing symptoms of intolerance in some individuals, have been studied in tests measuring platelet activation by noradrenaline. All the investigated agents inhibited platelet aggregation and this was associated with inhibition of the cyclo-oxygenase-thromboxane pathway. Suboptimal inhibitory concentrations of the agents studied had additive inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation when they were tested in pairs, or when tested with salicylate or aspirin. The results support the theory that some food additives and industrial chemicals induce intolerance because of their aspirin-like properties.

Effects of theophylline, beta-adrenergic stimulants and prednisolone on platelet and urine cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)

Experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of anti-asthma drugs on cGMP levels. In vitro, theophylline (5 X 10(-4) M) increased basal and 5-hydroxytryptamine stimulated cGMP formation by platelets (p less than 0.05) while salbutamol and prednisolone produced no change. No significant differences were found in urine cGMP levels in healthy subjects, after short term treatment with theophylline, isoprenaline or prednisolone. Urinary cGMP levels were lower than normal in the majority (7/10) of asthma patients tested and in female patients this difference was significant (p less than 0.05). Severity of asthma symptoms were not found to be associated with particular changes in urinary cGMP levels. Fluctuations in the cGMP levels were, however, greater (p less than 0.01) in asthma patients with a more unstable respiratory condition. The differences between in vitro and in vivo results may demonstrate that beta-stimulants and theophylline have different acute and chronic effects on cGMP formation, or show that in vivo these drugs primarily affect tissue enzymes that differ from those on platelets.

Chronic beryllium disease in identical twins

Identical male twins born in 1959 have developed chronic beryllium disease. Twin 1 was exposed to beryllium for more than 3 years. The diagnosis was first suspected at the time of his post-employment chest radiograph. Twin 2 was exposed for 21 months and ceased employment at the same time as his brother. His post-employment examination was normal. Thirty months later he developed an unusual skin rash which biopsy showed to be granulomatous. Further investigations proved the diagnosis. Both men have reduced tear secretion measured with Schirmer's test, a feature not previously reported in this condition. Bronchoalveolar lavage and laser microprobe mass spectrometry (LAMMS) were used as aids to the diagnosis. Sarcoidosis has been reported in identical twins, suggesting genetic susceptibility, which may also be of importance in chronic beryllium disease.

Heritable fraction of unilateral Wilms tumor

Heritability of the unilateral-sporadic (non-familial) form of Wilms tumor was examined in the offspring of 96 long-term survivors of the neoplasm. No Wilms tumor has developed in any of the 179 offspring of these patients. The maximum likelihood estimate of a hereditary Wilms tumor in our patients is zero and the corresponding 95% upper confidence limit ranges between 0.06 and 0.11, depending on penetrance. Among their offspring, the 95% upper bound of the risk of Wilms tumor is 0.02. These figures can be applied in genetic counseling of other survivors of unilateral-sporadic Wilms tumor.

The genetic implications of long-term survival of childhood cancer. A conceptual framework

This article outlines a conceptual framework for considering the genetic implications of childhood cancer and taking into account genetic predisposition as well as the genotoxic effects of cancer treatment. The primary consequences by which genetic effects are measured are somatic genetic damage, second tumors in the proband, germline genetic damage, and reproductive outcomes. Studies of retinoblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma are offered as models for examining the etiology of genetic effects and defining the risks for a second malignant neoplasm. The conclusion from these studies is that there is a small subgroup of patients for whom the genetic implications of long-term survival are significant. Characteristics of this subgroup and the risks involved in treatment are defined. More optimistically, the data indicate that for the majority of patients, the risks involved in mutagenic and carcinogenic agents used in the treatment of childhood cancer are small. The authors conclude that treatment-related effects vary according to the genetic background of the proband.