Securing peripheral intravenous catheters in babies without applying adhesive dressings to the skin: a proof-of-concept study

BACKGROUND

Most babies admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) require a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC). PIVCs are secured using splints and adhesive dressings applied to the skin. Removing the dressings causes skin injury, pain, and risks infection. We designed the Pēpi Splint, which supports PIVCs without the application of adhesive dressings to the skin. We sought to determine the effectiveness and acceptability of the Pēpi Splint using a proof-of-concept design.

METHODS

Eligible babies were > 1000 g and > 30 weeks' corrected gestation admitted to Wellington Regional NICU and who required a PIVC. All babies received the same care as those not in the study, with the addition of the Pēpi Splint. Primary outcomes were the proportion of babies in which the Pēpi Splint secured the PIVC for the required time and proportion of babies who experience an adverse event. Secondary outcomes were the acceptability of the Pēpi Splint as reported by the parents.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight babies, median (range) birth weight 2625 g (396-4970) and gestation 37wk (22-41). When the Pēpi was applied the postnatal weight was 2969 g (1145 - 4970) and gestation 37wk (29 - 41). The Pēpi Splint held the PIVC secure for 34/38 babies (89%), for a duration of 37 h (6 to 97). There were no adverse events. Of the four babies reported to have unsecure PIVCs, two were due to the securement two were displaced during feeding. Fifty-eight parents responded to a questionnaire (32 mothers, 26 fathers). Of these parents 52 (90%) would participate again and 52 (90%) would recommend participating to others. Overall, clinicians reported the Pēpi Splint was easy to use 33/38 (87%).

CONCLUSION

The Pēpi Splint safely secures PIVCs without adhesive dressings being applied to the skin and is acceptable to both parents and clinicians. Our findings provide support for a larger multicentred randomised controlled trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Reference ACTRN12620001335987 .

Healthcare-associated infections and antibiotic use in long-term care residents from two geographical regions in Switzerland

BACKGROUND

The burden of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and antimicrobial use in Swiss long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is currently unknown. This study assessed the prevalence of HAIs and antibiotic use among LTCF residents in Switzerland.

METHODS

A point-prevalence study was undertaken in LTCFs in eastern and western Switzerland from August to October 2019 according to the 'Healthcare-associated infections in long-term care facilities' (HALT) protocol. Characteristics of residents (age, sex, wounds, dementia, indwelling catheters) and institutions (specific factors, geographic region) were assessed. LTCF residents were screened for HAIs and current antibiotic treatment. Personal and institutional factors associated with HAIs were assessed.

RESULTS

In total, 1185 residents from 16 LTCFs (eight per geographic region) were screened for HAIs and antibiotic treatment. Median age was 87 years (interquartile range 79-91) and 71% were female. The prevalence of HAIs was 4.2% (west 4.3% vs east 4.2%; P=0.93), with mucocutaneous skin infections (36%) and respiratory tract infections (30%) being the most common. Independent risk factors for the presence of HAIs were presence of a chronic wound [odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-5.0; P=0.02] and being immobile (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.0-3.3; P=0.04). Antibiotics were given to 2.9% of residents (west 3.9% vs east 1.8%; P=0.05) on the day of the survey. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics were amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and quinolones.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HAIs in Swiss LTCFs is similar to that in other European countries, whereas antibiotic consumption is lower. Further point-prevalence surveys on a broader scale are recommended to improve understanding of the burden of HAIs and antibiotic consumption in this setting.

Semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering in Wandzura-Wilczek-type approximation

We present the complete cross-section for the production of unpolarized hadrons in semi-inclusive deep-inelastic scattering up to power-suppressed O(1/Q2) terms in the Wandzura–Wilczek-type approximation which consists in systematically assuming that q̅gq–terms are much smaller than q̅q–correlators. We compute all twist-2 and twist-3 structure functions and the corresponding asymmetries, and discuss the applicability of the Wandzura–Wilczek-type approximations on the basis of available data. We make predictions that can be tested by data from Jefferson Lab, COMPASS, HERMES, and the future Electron-Ion Collider. The results of this paper can be readily used for phenomenology and for event generators, and will help to improve our understanding of the TMD theory beyond leading twist. For more details see [1] or slides of Anatoly Efremov talk at https://indico.jinr.ru/getFile.py/access?contribId=25&sessionId=15&resId=0&materialId=slides&confId=433.

UNICORN Babies: Understanding Circulating and Cerebral Creatine Levels of the Preterm Infant. An Observational Study Protocol

Creatine is an essential metabolite for brain function, with a fundamental role in cellular (ATP) energy homeostasis. It is hypothesized that preterm infants will become creatine deplete in the early postnatal period, due to premature delivery from a maternal source of creatine and a limited supply of creatine in newborn nutrition. This potential alteration to brain metabolism may contribute to, or compound, poor neurological outcomes in this high-risk population. Understanding Creatine for Neurological Health in Babies (UNICORN) is an observational study of circulating and cerebral creatine levels in preterm infants. We will recruit preterm infants at gestational ages 23⁺⁰-26⁺⁶, 27⁺⁰-29⁺⁶, 30⁺⁰-32⁺⁶, 33⁺⁰-36⁺⁶, and a term reference group at 39⁺⁰-40⁺⁶ weeks of gestation, with 20 infants in each gestational age group. At birth, a maternal capillary blood sample, as well as a venous cord blood sample, will be collected. For preterm infants, serial infant plasma (heel prick), urine, and nutrition samples [total parenteral nutrition (TPN), breast milk, or formula] will be collected between birth and term "due date." Key fetomaternal information, including demographics, smoking status, and maternal diet, will also be collected. At term corrected postnatal age (CPA), each infant will undergo an MRI/¹H-MRS scan to evaluate brain structure and measure cerebral creatine content. A general movements assessment (GMA) will also be conducted. At 3 months of CPA, infants will undergo a second GMA as well as further neurodevelopmental evaluation using the Developmental Assessment of Young Children - Second Edition (DAYC-2) assessment tool. The primary outcome measures for this study are cerebral creatine content at CPA and plasma and urine creatine and guanidinoacetate (creatine precursor) concentrations in the early postnatal period. We will also determine associations between (1) creatine levels at term CPA and neurodevelopmental outcomes (MRI, GMA, and DAY-C); (2) dietary creatine intake and circulating and cerebral creatine content; and (3) creatine levels and maternal characteristics. Novel approaches are needed to try and improve preterm-associated brain injury. Inclusion of creatine in preterm nutrition may better support ex utero brain development through improved cerebral cellular energy availability during a period of significant brain growth and development. Ethics Ref: HDEC 18/CEN/7 New Zealand. ACTRN: ACTRN12618000871246.

Physics perspectives with AFTER@LHC (A Fixed Target ExpeRiment at LHC)

AFTER@LHC is an ambitious fixed-target project in order to address open questions in the domain of proton and neutron spins, Quark Gluon Plasma and high-x physics, at the highest energy ever reached in the fixed-target mode. Indeed, thanks to the highly energetic 7 TeV proton and 2.76 A.TeV lead LHC beams, center-of-mass energies as large as [see formula in PDF] = 115 GeV in pp/pA and [see formula in PDF] = 72 GeV in AA can be reached, corresponding to an uncharted energy domain between SPS and RHIC. We report two main ways of performing fixed-target collisions at the LHC, both allowing for the usage of one of the existing LHC experiments. In these proceedings, after discussing the projected luminosities considered for one year of data taking at the LHC, we will present a selection of projections for light and heavy-flavour production.

Center for the Polyurethanes Industry summary of unpublished industrial hygiene studies related to the evaluation of emissions of spray polyurethane foam insulation

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation is used as thermal insulation for residential and commercial buildings. It has many advantages over other forms insulation; however, concerns have been raised related to chemical emissions during and after application. The American Chemistry Council's (ACC's) Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) has gathered previously unpublished industrial hygiene air sampling studies submitted by member companies that were completed during an eight-year period from 2007-2014. These studies address emissions from medium density closed cell and low density open cell formulations. This article summarizes the results of personal and area air samples collected during application and post application of SPF to interior building surfaces in both laboratory and field environments. Chemicals of interest included: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), flame retardants, amine catalysts, blowing agents, and aldehydes. Overall, the results indicate that SPF applicators and workers in close proximity to the application are potentially exposed to MDI in excess of recommended and governmental occupational exposure limits and should use personal protective equipment (PPE) consisting of air supplied respirators and full-body protective clothing to reduce exposure. Catalyst emissions can be reduced by using reactive catalysts in SPF formulations, and mechanical ventilation is important in controlling emissions during and after application.

Efficacy of preoperative immunonutrition in locally advanced pancreatic cancer undergoing irreversible electroporation (IRE)

BACKGROUND

Improved preoperative immunonutrition has been shown to decrease the length of stay (LOS) and complications among patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal cancer surgeries. The purpose of this study was to determine whether preoperative immunonutrition supplementation decreases postoperative LOS, infectious complications, and morbidity in patients undergoing irreversible electroporation (IRE) surgery for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC).

METHODS

At a regional hepatopancreatobiliary referral center within an academic medical center 71 patients receiving IRE treatment of LAPC were included in the study. The participants were divided into those receiving preoperative immunonutrition (n = 44) and those receiving no supplemental preoperative immunonutrition (n = 27). Main outcomes and measures were LOS, postoperative complications, nutritional risk index (NRI), and albumin levels.

RESULTS

Patients in both groups were similar for preoperative nutrition parameters and operative therapy. Patients in the immunonutrition group experienced a statistically significant decrease in postoperative complications (p = 0.05) and LOS (10.7 vs. 17.4, p = 0.01), and less of a decrease in nutritional risk index (-12.6 vs. -16.2, p = 0.03) and albumin levels (-1.1 vs. -1.5, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative immunonutrition was clinically significant in decreasing postoperative complications, LOS, and improving post-surgery NRI and albumin levels in patients receiving elective IRE treatment of non-resectable pancreatic cancer. These results indicate that preoperative immunonutrition is effective and feasible in this subset of cancer patients.

Abstract OT3-01-13: MetaPHER: A phase IIIb multicenter, open-label, single-arm safety study of subcutaneous trastuzumab, in combination with pertuzumab and docetaxel in patients with HER2-positive advanced breast cancer

Background: In patients (pts) with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (BC), the phase III CLEOPATRA study (NCT00567190) demonstrated significant improvement in progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) from first-line treatment with intravenous (IV) pertuzumab (PERJETA® [P IV]) plus trastuzumab (Herceptin® [H IV]) plus docetaxel (D IV). HannaH (NCT00950300), a phase III trial in pts with HER2-positive early BC demonstrated that fixed-dose trastuzumab subcutaneous (Herceptin® [H SC]) is non-inferior to weight-based H IV infusion in the co-primary endpoints of serum trough concentration and pathologic complete response, which was supported by the long-term efficacy endpoints of event-free survival (EFS) and OS. The safety profile of H SC was consistent with the known safety profile of H IV. H SC is comprised of 600 mg trastuzumab and recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20) as an excipient, allowing a significantly reduced administration time compared with H IV (5 mins versus 30–90 mins, respectively). The MetaPHER study is designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of H SC in combination with P IV and D IV in pts with HER2-positive advanced BC.

Trial design: MetaPHER is a phase IIIb multicenter, open-label, single-arm study, with eligible pts receiving H SC 600 mg/5 mL q3w, P IV (840 mg loading dose, then 420 mg at each subsequent cycle q3w), and D IV (at least 6 cycles at 75 mg/m2 q3w with possible escalation to 100 mg/m2 q3w; after Cycle 6, continuation of docetaxel is at the investigator's discretion). Study treatment is administered until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, withdrawal of consent, death, or predefined study end, whichever occurs first. Pts will receive post-treatment follow-up for safety and survival.

Eligibility: Women aged ≥18 years with metastatic or locally recurrent HER2-positive BC, ECOG performance status 0 or 1, and a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% are eligible. Exclusion criteria include disease-free interval of &lt;6 months from completion of adjuvant or neoadjuvant non-hormonal treatment to disease recurrence; previous systemic non-hormonal therapy for metastatic or locally recurrent BC; history of persistent grade ≥2 hematological toxicity; current grade ≥3 peripheral neuropathy; or clinically significant cardiovascular disease.

Aims: The primary objective is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of H SC in combination with P IV and D IV in pts with HER2-positive advanced BC. Secondary endpoints include PFS, OS, objective response rate and incidence of anti-trastuzumab and anti-rHuPH20 antibody formation.

Statistical methods: Safety and efficacy results will be summarized descriptively to include all enrolled pts who received at least one dose of any study drug; the study is not designed for formal hypothesis testing. A sample size of 400 pts provides reasonable precision for the estimation of grade ≥3 AEs and cardiac AEs.

Accrual: MetaPHER is enrolling, FPI was May 2015, and target enrollment is 400 pts; clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT02402712.

Contact information: For more information or to refer a patient, email global.rochegenentechtrials@roche.com or call 1-888-662-6728 (USA only).

Citation Format: Kümmel S, Crepelle-Fléchais A, Schlegel M, Hillenbach C, Swat A, Franz M, Girase P, Schneider A, Heinzmann D, Shing M. MetaPHER: A phase IIIb multicenter, open-label, single-arm safety study of subcutaneous trastuzumab, in combination with pertuzumab and docetaxel in patients with HER2-positive advanced breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr OT3-01-13.

Local structure controls the nonaffine shear and bulk moduli of disordered solids

Paradigmatic model systems, which are used to study the mechanical response of matter, are random networks of point-atoms, random sphere packings, or simple crystal lattices; all of these models assume central-force interactions between particles/atoms. Each of these models differs in the spatial arrangement and the correlations among particles. In turn, this is reflected in the widely different behaviours of the shear (G) and compression (K) elastic moduli. The relation between the macroscopic elasticity as encoded in G, K and their ratio, and the microscopic lattice structure/order, is not understood. We provide a quantitative analytical connection between the local orientational order and the elasticity in model amorphous solids with different internal microstructure, focusing on the two opposite limits of packings (strong excluded-volume) and networks (no excluded-volume). The theory predicts that, in packings, the local orientational order due to excluded-volume causes less nonaffinity (less softness or larger stiffness) under compression than under shear. This leads to lower values of G/K, a well-documented phenomenon which was lacking a microscopic explanation. The theory also provides an excellent one-parameter description of the elasticity of compressed emulsions in comparison with experimental data over a broad range of packing fractions.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease-related symptom assessment in subjects with malignant dysphagia receiving esophageal stents

Concerns remain over the ability to stent across of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) for esophageal adenocarcinoma and the effects of gastroesophageal (GE) reflux. Thus, the aim of this study was to demonstrate minimal quality-of-life (QOL) side effects in patients undergoing esophageal stenting across the LES. An Institutional Review Board-approved prospective clinical trial evaluated the results of the Gastrointestinal Symptom questionnaire that includes a validated GE reflux disease (GERD) assessment (GERD-HRQL) and a dysphagia assessment. Consecutive patients were enrolled in this clinical trial, with 81 per cent male, 19 per cent female, median age of 62 years, with adenocarcinoma of the GE junction as their diagnosis. The median dysphagia score was 3 (only liquids can be tolerated) prestent and was improved to a median score of 0 (ability to eat all foods) poststent (P = 0.01). The median GERD score was 0 (none) prestent and did not change with a median score of 0 (none) poststent (P = 0.2). All GERD-related questions were unchanged prestent and poststent in all categories, specifically: frequency of GERD, time of day of reflux, pain behind breastbone, and pain medications. There was also no difference in regurgitation frequency (median prestent 1 vs poststent 0, P = 0.08), texture (prestent 2 [semisolid] vs poststent 1 [liquid]). There was only a statistical change in the ability to belch (prestent 0 [no ability] to poststent 1 [ability]), P = 0.02) and the ability to vomit. Esophageal stenting across the GE junction for dysphagia relief in esophageal malignancies does not adversely effect a patient's QOL in regard to reflux-related symptoms.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-related Symptom Assessment in Subjects with Malignant Dysphagia Receiving Esophageal Stents

Concerns remain over the ability to stent across of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) for esophageal adenocarcinoma and the effects of gastroesophageal (GE) reflux. Thus, the aim of this study was to demonstrate minimal quality-of-life (QOL) side effects in patients undergoing esophageal stenting across the LES. An Institutional Review Board–approved prospective clinical trial evaluated the results of the Gastrointestinal Symptom questionnaire that includes a validated GE reflux disease (GERD) assessment (GERD-HRQL) and a dysphagia assessment. Consecutive patients were enrolled in this clinical trial, with 81 per cent male, 19 per cent female, median age of 62 years, with adenocarcinoma of the GE junction as their diagnosis. The median dysphagia score was 3 (only liquids can be tolerated) prestent and was improved to a median score of 0 (ability to eat all foods) poststent ( P = 0.01). The median GERD score was 0 (none) prestent and did not change with a median score of 0 (none) poststent ( P = 0.2). All GERD-related questions were unchanged prestent and poststent in all categories, specifically: frequency of GERD, time of day of reflux, pain behind breastbone, and pain medications. There was also no difference in regurgitation frequency (median prestent 1 vs poststent 0, P = 0.08), texture (prestent 2 [semisolid] vs poststent 1 [liquid]). There was only a statistical change in the ability to belch (prestent 0 [no ability] to poststent 1 [ability]), P = 0.02) and the ability to vomit. Esophageal stenting across the GE junction for dysphagia relief in esophageal malignancies does not adversely effect a patient's QOL in regard to reflux-related symptoms.

First documented outbreak of KPC-2-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in Switzerland: infection control measures and clinical management

We report the epidemiological and clinical features of the first outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC-KP) type 2 in Switzerland. The outbreak took place in the medical intensive care unit (MICU) of our tertiary care hospital and affected three severely ill patients. After the implementation of strict infection control measures, no further patients colonised with KPC-KP could be detected by the screening of exposed patients. Successful treatment of patients infected with KPC-KP consisted of a combination therapy of meropenem, colistin and tigecycline.

Puumala virus outbreak in Western Thuringia, Germany, 2010: epidemiology and strain identification

In 2010, the highest annual number of human Puumala virus (PUUV) infections was reported in Germany since hantavirus surveillance started in 2001. The increase in annual case numbers was especially marked in western Thuringia. We combined results of case-based hantavirus surveillance in humans and serological and molecular investigations in the rodent reservoir to describe the epidemiological situation and to identify the putative outbreak strain. A 5-fold increase in notified hantavirus cases compared to the previous annual maximum was observed in western Thuringia in 2010. Disease incidence varied tremendously within a small geographical area with case patients' places of residence clustering around beech-dominated broad leaf forest patches. Investigations in the rodent reservoir revealed a novel Puumala virus (PUUV) subtype, which is clearly distinct from strains collected in other PUUV endemic regions of Germany. It can be assumed that in regions in western Thuringia where hantavirus cases occurred in 2010 or previous outbreak years, PUUV has been present in the environment for a long time. Further studies are needed to elucidate the population dynamics and hantavirus prevalence of the rodent reservoir and driving ecological factors.

Molecular phylogeny of eukaryotes

Comparisons of ribosomal RNAs and various protein coding genes have contributed to a new view of eukaryote phylogeny. Analyses of paralogous protein coding genes suggest that archaebacteria and eukaryotes are sistergroups. Sequence diversity of small subunit rRNAs in protists by far exceeds that of any multicellular or prokaryote taxon. Remarkably, a group of taxa that lack mitochondria first branches off in the small subunit rRNA tree. The later radiations are formed by a series of clades that were once thought to be more ancestral. Furthermore, tracing of the evolutionary origin of secondary endobiontic events is now possible with sequence comparisons.

Hantavirus infection among wild small mammals in Vellore, south India

Wild indigenous small mammals including 83 rodents (bandicoot and black rats, and house mice) and a shrew captured from multiple sites in Vellore, south India, were tested for serological and molecular evidence of hantavirus infection. Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using Hantaan virus (HTNV) antigen indicated hantavirus-reactive antibodies in 16 (19.3%) of 83 rodents (bandicoot and black rats). Western blot (WB) using Thailand virus (THAIV) antigen confirmed hantavirus-reactive antibodies in nine of the 16 HTNV IFA-positive rodents. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of lung and kidney tissue of captured mammals resulted in the detection of partial S segment sequence in a bandicoot rat. This study complements our earlier reports on hantavirus epidemiology in south India and documents first laboratory evidence for rodent-associated hantaviruses in south India.

Uranium(VI) interaction with pyrite (FeS2): Chemical and spectroscopic studies

The mechanism of uranium(VI) interaction with pyrite was studied by solution chemistry and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). Natural pyrite was characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). After equilibration in 10-2 mol L-1 NaNO3, pyrite was reacted with uranium(VI) by the batch method in an anoxic glove box (PO2 <1 ppm) at ambient temperature. The reaction products of uranium, iron and sulphur were characterized (oxidation state, chemical environment) by XPS. Quantitative analysis revealed that only a few atomic percent of uranium is retained at the pyrite surface. The U4f core level binding energies are consistent with the coexistence of an uranium(VI) species and of uranium in a reduced form. No sulphur oxidation products were observed by XPS, but spectral decomposition of the Fe2p lines revealed the presence of iron(III) oxide or (oxy)hydroxide. These results seem to point to a redox reaction between uranium(VI) and pyrite.

[Verification of malleus head fixation : computed tomography as diagnosis standard]

Malleus head fixation and otosclerosis causing conductive hearing loss are often difficult to differentiate by clinical features. Up to now exploratory anterior tympanotomy was necessary to distinguish these pathologies. The case of a 22-year-old male suffering from conductive hearing loss of the right ear is presented. Otosclerosis was suspected and high-resolution CT scanning of the petrous bone was performed. The diagnosis was confirmed radiologically by the detection of an isolated malleus head fixation. Instead of explorative anterior tympanotomy, radiological and audiological controls were combined for the follow-up.

Vergleichende Untersuchungen von Wachstumsverläufen bei Schweinen – 1. Mitteilung: Wachstumsverläufe bei Gruppen- und Einzeltiervergleichen

Abstract. Title of the paper: Comparing investigations of growth progresses of pigs. I. Growth progresses by comparisons of groups and individuals The variability of delivered groups of fattened pigs is attempted to decrease always. For that it is essential to gather knowledges about the typical, separate development periods and points of inflection of growth patterns in order to work out indications for influencing the process engineering. Statements coming from experimental tests arn´t transferable without doubt. Therefore, it is of importance to realize also tests under production conditions. Under the tests, the first realized in farm I 1989, the second realized in the farms IIa/ IIb 2005, here ought be published the investigation of pig groups and individuals in 1989. For 276 hogs the ages and the weights were registred five times. For each animal were ascertained the function parameters (growth function of Lehmann) from their dataset. Consequently could be determined the “theoretical possible end weight” (xE). According to these book values the datasets were sorted increasingly and divided into groups. Group 1 contains the animals with low xE and group 11 the with high. The comparison of pig groups leads to following statements: 1. A low xE corresponds with a high growth intensity (WI) and contrariwise. 2. The higher the WI the earlier the animals reach their maximum of daily live weight gains (tZmax) and the faster the animals cross this maximum. These statements were confronted with those of individuals. The selected animals 117 and 59 show identical xE. The higher WI express in a faster crossing of the tZmax (confirmation of the second statement), but the faster reaching cannot be confirmed. At a compare of two other animals with same WI can be determined that they have different xE. With it the first statement can't be confirmed in the complete consequence.

Vergleichende Untersuchungen von Wachstumsverläufen bei Schweinen – 2. Mitteilung: Gegenüberstellung von Wachstumsverläufen aus den Jahren 2005 zu 1989

Abstract. Title of the paper: Comparing investigations of growth progresses of pigs. II. Comparison of growth progresses from the year 2005 to the year 1989 The introduction of automatic single animal recognition possible with a simultaneous weighing of the animals can help during the practice transfer of results from growth investigations. Differing live weights at the end of fattening represent a problem, that only let consider and solve with growth investigations. In this connection were realized already 1989 investigations (1st communication). The results should be matched in this communication with that newer date. In the investigation of 2005 in the farms IIa/ IIb, masculine and feminine pigs were weighed six times. These data records were provided separated to a estimation procedure for determination the parameters (growth function of Lehman) for each animal. Among other things, the values of the theoretical possible end weight could be determined by means of the mentioned function from the weighing data. According to these values became ascendingly sorted and subsequent the data records of the animals in nine groups divide. Consequently group 1 contained those animals with small possible end weights and group 9 for example with the highest ones. The following statements can be hit: In the group arrangement of the nine groups can be confirmed in direction the statement in year 1989, that a low growth intenseness go along with one high possible end weight and a high growth intenseness with a small one, that however this state of affairs can not be supported in single animal arrangement in this consequence. Further, the statement can be confirmed that a high growth intenseness is be compared with a more rapid cycling the growth relevant dates and/or a low one with a slower one. The respective statements can not be confirmed with the single animal arrangements of years 1989 and 2005 from the group arrangements, that a high growth intenseness always agree with an early attaining of the maximum of daily increase in live weight and/or a low with a late attaining.

The complete mitochondrial genome of the Green Lizard Lacerta viridis viridis (Reptilia: Lacertidae) and its phylogenetic position within squamate reptiles

For the first time the complete mitochondrial genome was sequenced for a member of Lacertidae. Lacerta viridis viridis was sequenced in order to compare the phylogenetic relationships of this family to other reptilian lineages. Using the long-polymerase chain reaction (long PCR) we characterized a mitochondrial genome, 17,156 bp long showing a typical vertebrate pattern with 13 protein coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs (tRNA), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNA) and one major noncoding region. The noncoding region of L. v. viridis was characterized by a conspicuous 35 bp tandem repeat at its 5' terminus. A phylogenetic study including all currently available squamate mitochondrial sequences demonstrates the position of Lacertidae within a monophyletic squamate group. We obtained a narrow relationship of Lacertidae to Scincidae, Iguanidae, Varanidae, Anguidae, and Cordylidae. Although, the internal relationships within this group yielded only a weak resolution and low bootstrap support, the revealed relationships were more congruent with morphological studies than with recent molecular analyses.

An RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) analysis of genetic population structure of Balea biplicata (Gastropoda: Clausiliidae) in fragmented floodplain forests of the Elster/Saale riparian system

Eight German populations of the land snail Balea biplicata (Mollusca: Clausiliidae) were studied using the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction and morphometrics (principal component and discriminant analysis) to examine population structure and gene flow patterns in a fragmented landscape mosaic along the Elster/Saale riparian system, Germany. A variety of population genetic analyses targeting either more on the geographic scale of gene flow (genetic distances, F statistics, Mantel test) or on local genotypic structure (heterozygosity, linkage disequilibrium, bottleneck probability) showed that (1) the population system in total is governed by high gene flow independent of geographic distance, (2) genetic structure on the narrower sampling scale is mainly determined by stochastic processes due to genetic drift in small isolated and frequently recolonized populations, and (3) the morphometrical variation of the populations was related neither to habitat nor to genetic heterogeneity. The potentials for active and passive dispersal capacity of the snails and possible environmental impacts on their population structure are discussed.

Heterologous amplification of microsatellite markers from colubroid snakes in European natricines (serpentes: natricinae)

Eighteen microsatellite loci developed for a range of snake species (New World natricines, elapids, crotalids) were tested against European natricines (Natrix natrix, N. maura, and N. tessellata) in cross-species amplification experiments. Five loci were polymorphic (average expected heterozygosity 0.749 for a population of N. natrix in Amsterdam, mean sample size 47.8) and three loci were monomorphic. The remainder could not be consistently scored or failed to amplify. Further tests on single individuals of a diverse set of eight species of colubroid snakes showed that 15 of the 18 loci could be cross-amplified in at least one of these species. We conclude that our results show promise for the utilization of these markers for experimental assessments of genetic variation in the phylogenetically closely related group of European natricine snakes with emphasis on N. natrix. The full suite of microsatellite markers now available for snakes may show additional potential for subsequent investigation across a broader range of colubroid snakes.

Phylogenetic relationships within the class Spirotrichea (Ciliophora) inferred from small subunit rRNA gene sequences

The small subunit rDNAs of five species belonging to the Euplotidae and eight species of the Oxytrichidae were sequenced to obtain a more detailed picture of the phylogenetic relationships within the Spirotrichea (Ciliophora). Various tree reconstruction algorhythms yielded nearly identical topologies. All Euplotidae were separated from the other Spirotrichea by a deep split. Further, a large genetic distance between the marine genus Moneuplotes and the freshwater species of Euplotoides was found. Differences between the methods used occurred only within the Oxytrichidae. Whereas the monophyly of the Stylonychinae was supported in all trees, the monophyly of the Oxytrichinae was not. However, the molecular data support the morphological and ontogenetic evidence that the pattern of 18 frontal-ventral-transversal cirri evolved in the stemline of the Oxytrichidae and was modified several times independently. Our results are also in agreement with taxonomic revisions: the separation of both Sterkiella nova from Oxytricha and Tetmemena pustulata from Stylonychia.

Ni clay neoformation on montmorillonite surface

Polarized extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (P-EXAFS) was used to study the sorption mechanism of Ni on the aluminous hydrous silicate montmorillonite at high ionic strength (0.3 M NaClO4), pH 8 and a Ni concentration of 0.66 mM. Highly textured self-supporting clay films were obtained by slowly filtrating a clay suspension after a reaction time of 14 days. P-EXAFS results indicate that sorbed Ni has a Ni clay-like structural environment with the same crystallographic orientation as montmorillonite layers.

Molecular evolution of the small subunit ribosomal DNA in woodlice (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) and implications for Oniscidean phylogeny

The small subunit ribosomal DNA (ssu rDNA) of 13 isopods was sequenced. The entire length of the ribosomal gene is unusually long, resulting from the presence of five expansion elements accounting for more than 40% of the gene. We found that in terrestrial isopods the length of the ssu rDNA ranges from 2414 bp (Ligidium hypnorum) to 3537 bp (Cubaris murina). This is the longest metazoan ssu rDNA reported to date. The conserved regions are highly informative for analysis of the early nodes of the tree, whereas the variable expansion elements are better suited to reconstruction of the branching pattern between closely related taxa. The suggested relationship among Synochaeta, Crinochaeta, and Diplochaeta based on the conserved regions confirms that based on previous morphological analyses. In contrast, the phylogeny within the Crinochaeta based on the entire ssu rDNA including the variable domains is in conflict with that based on most of the morphological analyses. The phylogenetic analyses of the ssu rDNA support a repeated independent evolution of the three different types of pleopodal lungs in the Crinochaeta.

Malfunction of a unipolar pacemaker system following development of marked subcutaneous emphysema

Failure of a unipolar pacemaker system due to subcutaneous emphysema is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication after implantation. We report on a pacemaker dysfunction observed three days after implantation in a 91-year-old patient following development of marked subcutaneous emphysema. Function was immediately restored following application of pressure bandages and the condition resolved within a few days.

Evidence for the Formation of Trioctahedral Clay upon Sorption of Co(2+) on Quartz

The sorption mechanism of Co on quartz at room temperature has been investigated by an in-depth analysis of published extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy and solution chemistry data. In particular, the 3.5-5 Å mid-range atomic environment of Co has been determined with unprecedented precision by combining ad initio FEFF7.02 calculations and results obtained by polarized EXAFS on the mid-distance structure of sheet silicate minerals. The local atomic environment around sorbed Co atoms is identical to that of Co in trioctahedral clays and substantially different from that in the cobalt hydroxide Co(OH)(2(s)). Neoformation of a trioctahedral clay is consistent with calculated thermodynamic solubilities, which indicate that 2:1 and 1:1 Co-rich hydrous silicates, similar to kerolite and chrysotile, are less soluble than Co(OH)(2(s)). Consequently, precipitation of Co-rich clay is favored over that of Co(OH)(2(s)) at pH values below 9 and for a dissolved Si concentration equal to quartz solubility. New experimental data show that dissolved Si concentrations can approach, and even exceed, that of quartz solubility during the short times of sorption experiments. Based on the available data, it is not possible to conclude unequivocally if the Co layer silicate grew epitaxially on the quartz surface, topotactically in a surface amorphous layer, or independently of the quartz framework structure. The structural and chemical interpretation is supported by recent published studies in which sorption of a hydrolyzable cation leads to the neoformation of a mixed layer phase formed from the sorbate species and the sorbent metal. This surface-induced precipitation mechanism is a general phenomenon that may account for the formation of secondary clays as coatings on silicates. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Analysis of the complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of the brachiopod terebratulina retusa places Brachiopoda within the protostomes

Brachiopod phylogeny is still a controversial subject. Analyses using nuclear 18SrRNA and mitochondrial 12SrDNA sequences place them within the protostomes but some recent interpretations of morphological data support a relationship with deuterostomes. In order to investigate brachiopod affinities within the metazoa further, we compared the gene arrangement on the brachiopod mitochondrial genome with several metazoan taxa. The complete (15 451 bp) mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence of the articulate brachiopod Terebratulina retusa was determined from two overlapping long polymerase chain reaction products. All the genes are encoded on the same strand and gene order comparisons showed that.only one major rearrangement is required to interconvert the T. retusa and Katharina tunicata (Mollusca: Polvplacophora) mitochondrial genomes. The partial mtDNA sequence of the prosobranch mollusc Littorina saxatilis shows complete congruence with the T. rehtusa gene arrangement with regard to the ribosomal and protein coding genes. This high similarity in gene arrangement is the first to be reported within the protostomes. Sequence analyses of mitochondrial protein coding genes also support a close relationship of the brachiopod with molluscs and annelids, thus supporting the clade Lophotrochozoa. Though being highly informative, sequence analyses of the mitochondrial protein coding genes failed to resolve the branching order within the lophotrochozoa.

Phylogenetic relationships of orders within the class colpodea (Phylum ciliophora) inferred from small subunit rRNA gene sequences

Molecular analyses have been used recently to refine our knowledge of phylogenetic relationships within the ciliated protozoa (phylum Ciliophora). A current Hennigian phylogeny of the orders in the class Colpodea, based on light and electron microscopic analyses, makes three important assumptions with regard to apomorphic character states, namely, (1) that the kreyellid silver line evolved early in colpodean phylogeny, separating bryometopids, such as Bryometopus, from all other colpodeans; (2) that the macro-micronuclear complex is an autapomorphy of the cyrtolophosidids, such as Platyophrya; and (3) that merotelokinetal stomatogenesis is an apomorphic character of colpodids, such as Colpoda, Bresslaua, and Pseudoplatyophrya. These predictions of relationships within the class Colpodea were investigated by determining the complete small subunit rRNA gene sequences for the colpodid Bresslaua vorax, the grossglockneriid Pseudoplatyophrya nana, and the cyrtolophosidid Platyophrya vorax and a partial sequence for the bryometopid Bryometopus sphagni. These sequences were combined with the previously published complete SSrRNA sequences for the colpodid Colpoda inflata and the bursariomorphid Bursaria truncatella. The affiliations were assessed using both distance matrix and maximum-parsimony analyses. The tree topologies for the class Colpodea were identical in all analyses, with bootstrap support for bifurcations always exceeding 60%. The results suggest the following. (1) Since the clade including Bryometopus and its sister taxon, Bursaria, is never basal, the kreyellid silver-line system evolved later in colpodean phylogeny and does not separate bryometopids from all other colpodeans. (2) Since Platyophrya is always the sister taxon to the other five genera, there is a fundamental phylogenetic significance for its macro-micronuclear complex. (3) Since the colpodids, Colpoda, Bresslaua, and Pseudoplatyophrya, always group in one clade, merotelokinetal stomatogenesis appears to be a derived character state.

[Detection of antibacterial activity in the urine of children: a comparison of three tests]

BACKGROUND

Detection of antibacterial activity in urine is important for the diagnosis of urinary tract infections and for assessment of patient compliance with antibiotic therapy.

METHOD

Urines of paediatric inpatients were examined by the Bacillus subtilis agar diffusion test and two commercial test strips (Micur BT and Urotest AB).

RESULTS

566 urines of 431 patients were examined. The B. subtilis agar diffusion test was the most reliable method (accuracy 98.8%). Micur BT showed a comparatively low specificity (87.6%) and Urotest AB had a comparatively low sensitivity (86.0%).

CONCLUSION

The B. subtilis agar diffusion test is the most reliable method for detection of antibacterial activity in the urine of children.