Influence of Sorghum Cultivar, Nitrogen Fertilization, and Insecticides on Infestations of the Sugarcane Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in the Southern United States

The sugarcane aphid, Melanaphis sacchari Zehntner, is an economically damaging pest of sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.), across the southern United States. Field experiments investigated impacts of sorghum cultivar, nitrogen fertilization, and insecticides on M. sacchari infestations and sorghum yields in Louisiana and South Carolina in 2017 and 2018. In South Carolina, M. sacchari densities in unprotected plots peaked on 30-31 July of both years before declining by early- to mid-August. In Louisiana, infestations peaked on 26 and 12 July for 2017 and 2018, respectively, and declined by mid-August. Nitrogen fertilization influenced M. sacchari densities in Louisiana in 2018 with the highest-level infestations recorded from plots that received high N rates. Densities of M. sacchari on susceptible sorghum cultivar, DKS 38-88, were 1.5- to 2.3-fold greater than on DKS 37-07 in both years in Louisiana and in 2018 in South Carolina. Nitrogen fertilization was associated with improved sorghum yields in Louisiana experiments. Sorghum yields across experiments were 2- to 4-fold greater in plots protected with multiple insecticide applications than in unprotected plots. Yield from plots with insecticides sprayed once at currently used action thresholds differed from unprotected plots only in the 2018 Louisiana experiment. Results from these experiments indicate insecticidal protection of susceptible sorghum cultivars remains critical throughout much of the southern United States. Further research is needed to develop integrated management programs that incorporate fertilization manipulation, cultivar resistance, and insecticidal control.

Lactational metformin exposure programs offspring white adipose tissue glucose homeostasis and resilience to metabolic stress in a sex-dependent manner

We previously demonstrated that exposing mouse dams to metformin during gestation results in increased beta-cell mass at birth and increased beta-cell insulin secretion in adult male offspring. Given these favorable changes after a gestational maternal metformin exposure, we wanted to understand the long-term metabolic impact on offspring after exposing dams to metformin during the postnatal window. The newborn period provides a feasible clinical window for intervention and is important for beta-cell proliferation and metabolic tissue development. Using a C57BL/6 model, we administered metformin to dams from the day of birth to postnatal day 21. We monitored maternal health and offspring growth during the lactation window, as well as adult glucose homeostasis through in vivo testing. At necropsy we assessed pancreas and adipocyte morphology using histological and immunofluorescent staining techniques. We found that metformin exposure programmed male and female offspring to be leaner with a higher proportion of small adipocytes in the gonadal white adipose tissue (GWAT). Male, but not female, offspring had an improvement in glucose tolerance as young adults concordant with a mild increase in insulin secretion in response to glucose in vivo. These data demonstrate long-term metabolic programming of offspring associated with maternal exposure to metformin during lactation.

Prevalence of Second-Hand Smoke Exposure After Introduction of the Italian Smoking Ban: The Florence and Belluno Survey

Aims and Background

A law banning smoking in enclosed public places was implemented in Italy on January 10, 2005. The aim of this paper is to present a cross-sectional survey on two representative samples of non-smokers of two Italian towns (Florence and Belluno), conducted one year after the introduction of the ban, in order to assess prevalence of second-hand smoke exposure, to record the attitudes towards the ban, and the perception about its compliance in a representative sample of non-smokers.

Methods

Computer-assisted telephone interviews were carried out in March 2006, from a random sample of households from telephone registries. Respondents were 402 non-smokers from Belluno and 1,073 from Florence.

Results

About 12% of Florentines and 7% of Belluno respondents were exposed at home; 39% and 19%, respectively, at work; 10% and 5% in hospitality venues; 20% and 10% in cars. The smoke-free law was almost universally supported (about 98%) even if a smaller proportion of people (about 90%) had the perception that the ban was observed.

Conclusions

Second-hand smoke exposure at home and in hospitality premises has dropped to ≤10%, whereas exposure at work remained higher. These results suggest the need for more controls in workplaces other than hospitality venues.

A pilot study on the feasibility of European harmonized human biomonitoring: Strategies towards a common approach, challenges and opportunities

In 2004 the European Commission and Member States initiated activities towards a harmonized approach for Human Biomonitoring surveys throughout Europe. The main objective was to sustain environmental health policy by building a coherent and sustainable framework and by increasing the comparability of data across countries. A pilot study to test common guidelines for setting up surveys was considered a key step in this process. Through a bottom-up approach that included all stakeholders, a joint study protocol was elaborated. From September 2011 till February 2012, 17 European countries collected data from 1844 mother-child pairs in the frame of DEMOnstration of a study to COordinate and Perform Human Biomonitoring on a European Scale (DEMOCOPHES).(1) Mercury in hair and urinary cadmium and cotinine were selected as biomarkers of exposure covered by sufficient analytical experience. Phthalate metabolites and Bisphenol A in urine were added to take into account increasing public and political awareness for emerging types of contaminants and to test less advanced markers/markers covered by less analytical experience. Extensive efforts towards chemo-analytical comparability were included. The pilot study showed that common approaches can be found in a context of considerable differences with respect to experience and expertize, socio-cultural background, economic situation and national priorities. It also evidenced that comparable Human Biomonitoring results can be obtained in such context. A European network was built, exchanging information, expertize and experiences, and providing training on all aspects of a survey. A key challenge was finding the right balance between a rigid structure allowing maximal comparability and a flexible approach increasing feasibility and capacity building. Next steps in European harmonization in Human Biomonitoring surveys include the establishment of a joint process for prioritization of substances to cover and biomarkers to develop, linking biomonitoring surveys with health examination surveys and with research, and coping with the diverse implementations of EU regulations and international guidelines with respect to ethics and privacy.

Does health-related quality of life (HRQL) improve for patients who respond to chemotherapy? Analysis of patients with advanced pancreas cancer (APC) receiving gemcitabine on Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) study #80303

9008

Background: Gemcitabine chemotherapy for APC is palliative and confers only modest survival advantage. Therefore HRQL concerns are of paramount importance. Methods: We compared HRQL scores based on response to chemotherapy at the first interval restaging (8 weeks). We evaluated HRQL at baseline on paper, and then q8 weeks by phone using the EQ5D instrument in patients with APC participating in a double-blind, randomized trial comparing overall survival for gemcitabine with bevacizumab (GB) or placebo (GP). The EQ5D is a HRQL measure whose composite (C) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores respectively reflect societal and patient valuations. Results: Among 552 patients starting protocol treatment, characteristics did not differ between 359 who did and 193 who didn’t complete baseline assessments. Patients who didn’t complete 8 week assessments were more likely to have died, progressed or discontinued protocol therapy. Changes in EQ5D scores from baseline to 8 weeks did not differ by treatment arm (p-values=0.84, 0.79 for C and VAS scales, Wilcoxon rank sum test). At 8 weeks, all patients and those with progressive disease had a modest decline in VAS scores (p-values≤0.02, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Comparisons of changes from baseline in C scores at 8 week follow-up revealed no differences within other response group strata (all p-values > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on this preliminary analysis, gemcitabine therapy was not associated with higher HRQL scores, nor was there any strong association between tumor response and HRQL. To increase data representativeness, future APC trials should assess HRQL more often than every 8 weeks. HRQL Scores Based on Gemcitabine Response Strata. Values are Mean (SD)

[Table: see text] [Table: see text]

A phase II trial of weekly gemcitabine and bevacizumab in combination with abdominal radiation therapy in patients with localized pancreatic cancer

15043

Purpose: To evaluate the response rate, survival and toxicity of non-metastatic pancreatic cancer patients treated with a combination of, Gemcitabine, Bevacizumab and Radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: Eligibility included patients with non- metastatic pancreatic cancer, standard organ function and ECOG performance status of 0 or 1. The patients received three cycles of therapy. Cycle one was 21 days and consisted of Gemcitabine days 1 and 8 and Bevacizumab days 1 and 15. Cycle 2 was 28 days and consisted of Gemcitabine days 1, 8, and 15, Bevacizumab days 8 and 22 and Radiotherapy days 1–5, 8–12, and 15–19. Cycle three was 21 days and delivered Gemcitabine days 1 and 8, and Bevacizumab day 8. The Gemcitabine dose was 1,000 mg/m2, Bevacizumab at 10 mg/kg and Radiotherapy was delivered to the gross tumor volume only for a total dose of 36 Gy at 2.4 Gy/fraction. Response was determined on week ten with cross sectional imaging and CA 19–9. Toxicities were scored utilizing CTC version 3.0. Resectable patients were to undergo surgery 8 (currently amended to 6) weeks after the last dose of Bevacizumab. Results: Ninteen patients have been enrolled on study from 10/10/05 - 1/4/07. Twelve patients are evaluable for toxicity and response. Ten (83%) had a grade 3 toxicity. The grade 3 toxicities included cytopenias (9), DVT (2), Dehydration (2), hypotension (1), mucositis (1), increased LFT’s (2), Anorexia (1), nausea (1) and fatigue (1).There were no Grade 4 or 5 toxicities. All but one patient completed all three cycles. Radiographic response at 10 weeks was noted to be stable in 10 (83%) patients. Two patients progressed distantly (liver and abdomen). The mean CA 19–9 pre and post treatment CA 19–9 was 1519.56 and 356.09 respectively. One patient underwent surgical resection. The mean follow up is 4.83 months. At last follow up nine patients were alive. Conclusions: The combination of full dose Gemcitabine, Bevacizumab and Radiotherapy was generally well tolerated with no Grade 4 toxicities and the majority of Grade 3 toxicities hematologic. All but one patient completed all three cycles. Responses were limited to a reduction in CA 19–9. Nine patients remain alive. Accrual to the trial continues.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase I/II study of an antitumor vaccination using α (1,3) galactosyltransferase expressing allogeneic tumor cells in pancreatic cancer

13512

Background: Prognosis of pancreatic cancer remains poor despite surgical resection. In a phase I trial, we examined the safety and feasibility of antitumor vaccination in Pts with surgically resected pancreatic cancer with two irradiated genetically altered human pancreatic cancer cell lines engineered to express xenotransplantation antigens by retroviral transfer of the murine a(1,3) galactosyltrasferase gene {HyperAcute Pancreatic Cancer Vaccine (HAPa)}. Methods: Pts had undergone complete surgical resection for stage IA to IIB pancreatic adenocarcinoma, ECOG PS≤2, no immunosuppressive drug use and an adequate organ function were eligible. Various adjuvant treatments were allowed prior to the start of HAPa according to the institutional preferences (5FU/radiation, cisplatin/gemicitabine followed by 5FU/radiation, 5FU/radiation followed by gemicitabine or gemicitabine/capecitabine/bevasizumab/radiation). Six Pts were scheduled to receive 12 every two week-intradermal injections (initial priming dose followed by 11 boost doses). The first cohort (Pts 1–3) was to receive at lower doses (2 × 108 cells priming and 1 x 108 cells boost). The second cohort (Pts 4–6) was to receive at higher doses (5 x 10^8 cells priming and 3 x 10^8 cells boost). Toxicity was assessed using the CTC v3.0. Results: To date, 6 Pts, 3 males, 3 females, median age 59 (range 50–66) were treated. Two Pts completed all 12 injections. Others received 9, 6, 6 and 4 injections, respectively. To date no serious adverse events can be attributed to the vaccine. Adverse events (≤CTC grade 2) attributable to the vaccine include injection site pain/discomfort and local skin reaction in all Pts. Other adverse events (≤grade 2) include hyperkalemia, fever and increased LDH levels in one Pt. One Pt with non-malignant hepatic lesions at the time of initial surgery was removed from the study after confirmation of metastatic disease in the liver. At this point the median 6.5 (range 9–4) months in the study all remaining (5/6) patients have no evidence of recurrent disease. Conclusions: Preliminary data indicate that antitumor vaccination with genetically altered allogeneic human pancreatic cancer cells expressing a(1, 3) galactosyltrasferase is safe and feasible

[Table: see text]

A patterns-of-care study of post-progression treatment (Rx) among patients (pts) with advanced pancreas cancer (APC) after gemcitabine therapy on Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) study #80303

4524

Background: Gemcitabine is the mainstay of Rx for pts with APC. Practice guidelines encourage participation in trials after disease progression. We evaluated Rx after APC progression for pts in CALGB 80303 a randomized trial of gemcitabine + bevacizumab (GB) or placebo (GP). Methods: Of the 552 pts who began GP or GB Rx, 457 had comprehensive medical record review. Of these 355 progressed on protocol Rx. We evaluated post-progression Rx for these 355 pts - the record review (RecR) group. We also phoned a subgroup of 126 pts to inquire about Rx delivered at sites other than the accruing center - the record review & interview group (RecR + I) to determine whether any Rx had been administered and the specific agents used. Results: ChemoRx after progression on gemcitabine was distinctly uncommon. Based on RecR 239/355=67.3% and on RecR + I, 70/126=55.6% of pts received no chemoRx after progression on the study Rx. These proportions did not vary based on Rx assignment. Worse ECOG performance status at baseline and older age were associated with lower likelihood of post progression Rx. Notably, 99/355=27.9% of pts died within 4 weeks of progression. Conclusions: After progression on a clinical trial of gemcitabine Rx, <half of pts receive 2nd line Rx and remarkably few (<2%) receive further experimental Rx. Given the lack of well established Rx options, there appear to be lost opportunities for participation in early phase clinical trials. Coordinated strategies for second line Rx options might increase the evidence base for this challenging malignancy. Patterns of Post-Progression ChemoRx after Progression on Gemcitabine ± Bevacizumab in APC.

[Table: see text] [Table: see text]

Reductions in tobacco smoke pollution and increases in support for smoke-free public places following the implementation of comprehensive smoke-free workplace legislation in the Republic of Ireland: findings from the ITC Ireland/UK Survey

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the psychosocial and behavioural impact of the first ever national level comprehensive workplace smoke-free law, implemented in Ireland in March 2004.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental prospective cohort survey: parallel cohort telephone surveys of national representative samples of adult smokers in Ireland (n = 769) and the UK (n = 416), surveyed before the law (December 2003 to January 2004) and 8-9 months after the law (December 2004 to January 2005).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Respondents' reports of smoking in key public venues, support for total bans in those key venues, and behavioural changes due to the law.

RESULTS

The Irish law led to dramatic declines in reported smoking in all venues, including workplaces (62% to 14%), restaurants (85% to 3%), and bars/pubs (98% to 5%). Support for total bans among Irish smokers increased in all venues, including workplaces (43% to 67%), restaurants (45% to 77%), and bars/pubs (13% to 46%). Overall, 83% of Irish smokers reported that the smoke-free law was a "good" or "very good" thing. The proportion of Irish homes with smoking bans also increased. Approximately 46% of Irish smokers reported that the law had made them more likely to quit. Among Irish smokers who had quit at post-legislation, 80% reported that the law had helped them quit and 88% reported that the law helped them stay quit.

CONCLUSION

The Ireland smoke-free law stands as a positive example of how a population-level policy intervention can achieve its public health goals while achieving a high level of acceptance among smokers. These findings support initiatives in many countries toward implementing smoke-free legislation, particularly those who have ratified the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which calls for legislation to reduce tobacco smoke pollution.

Secondhand smoke exposure and risk following the Irish smoking ban: an assessment of salivary cotinine concentrations in hotel workers and air nicotine levels in bars

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the Irish smoking ban has had an impact on secondhand smoke (SHS) exposures for hospitality workers.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Before and after the smoking ban a cohort of workers (n = 35) from a sample of city hotels (n = 15) were tested for saliva cotinine concentrations and completed questionnaires. Additionally, a random sample (n = 20) of city centre bars stratified by size (range 400-5000 square feet), were tested for air nicotine concentrations using passive samplers before and after the ban.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Salivary cotinine concentrations (ng/ml), duration of self reported exposures to secondhand smoke, air nicotine (microg/cubic metre).

RESULTS

Cotinine concentrations reduced by 69%, from 1.6 ng/ml to 0.5 ng/ml median (SD 1.29; p < 0.005). Overall 74% of subjects experienced decreases (range 16-99%), with 60% showing a halving of exposure levels at follow up. Self reported exposure to SHS at work showed a significant reduction from a median 30 hours a week to zero (p < 0.001). There was an 83% reduction in air nicotine concentrations from median 35.5 microg/m3 to 5.95 microg/m3 (p < 0.001). At baseline, three bars (16%) were below the 6.8 microg/m3 air nicotine significant risk level for lung cancer alone; at follow up this increased to 10 (53%).

CONCLUSIONS

Passive smoking and associated risks were significantly reduced but not totally eliminated. Exposure to SHS is still possible for those working where smoking is still allowed and those working where smoke may migrate from outdoor areas. Further research is required to assess the true extent and magnitude of these exposures.

Susceptibility of three different strains of juvenile Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.) cultured at two different temperatures to Vibrio anguillarum and temperature effect on antibody response

Three geographically distinct-reared strains (Canadian, Icelandic, Norwegian) of juvenile Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.) cultured at optimal and super-optimal growth temperatures (12 and 18 degrees C respectively), were challenged with a virulent isolate of Vibrio anguillarum by injection. The halibut were injected intraperitoneally with 100 microl of the bacterial suspension (1 x 10(6) cells per fish). After challenge, temperature and strain-related differences in survival were observed. Canadian and Icelandic halibut cultured at the super-optimal temperature of 18 degrees C were significantly more susceptible to infection than those strains cultured at 12 degrees C. Total mortality at 18 degrees C for the Canadian and Icelandic strains was 56.4 and 61.85% respectively, compared to 32 and 26.6% respectively at 12 degrees C. Norwegian halibut were significantly more resistant to infection with V. anguillarum at 18 degrees C compared to the other strains, with total mortality of 13.3%. There was no significant difference in total mortality of Norwegian halibut at 18 or 12 degrees C (13.3, 25% respectively). The specificity of the antibodies in sera from challenged halibut cultured at 18 degrees C was primarily to LPS. Immunoblots showed the presence of antibodies against O-side chain antigens. This reaction was strongest in sera from the Norwegian halibut strain compared with the Canadian and Icelandic halibut, which suggests that the difference in resistance to challenge may be ascribable to the presence of antibodies to LPS. Specific antibody levels, as measured by ELISA, increased with increasing temperature and strain differences were apparent, however these did not relate to disease resistance.

The effect of temperature on non-specific defence parameters of three strains of juvenile Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.)

The effect of temperature (8, 12, 15 and 18 degrees C) on a variety of non-specific defence and haematological parameters was examined in three geographically distinct reared strains (Canadian, Icelandic, Norwegian) of Atlantic halibut. The results indicate that temperature exerts a considerable influence on some blood parameters (packed cell volume and the percentage population of leucocytes in peripheral blood) and on some humoral parameters (serum lysozyme activity and serum protein levels) of halibut. A high temperature of 18 degrees C caused a decrease in the number of circulating blood cells and an increase in serum lysozyme levels; effects consistent with those reported within the literature for stress. The different strains of halibut exhibited differing responses with respect to differential counts of peripheral blood lymphocytes and thrombocytes, and to serum protein concentrations, serum lysozyme activity, serum iron content, unsaturated iron binding capacity of serum and O2- production by kidney macrophages.

193 nm photolysis of aromatic and aliphatic dipeptides in aqueous solution: dependence of decomposition quantum yield on the amino acid sequence

The values of molar absorption coefficient and quantum yields of photodecomposition and peptide bond scission were determined for a number of aromatic and aliphatic dipeptides under 193 nm laser irradiation in neutral argon-saturated aqueous solution. Under these conditions we could show that no dependence of the dipeptide decomposition quantum yield on the sequence of amino acid residues exists, neither for aromatic dipeptides nor for aliphatic ones.

Radiation exposure during fluoroscopy: should we be protecting our thyroids?

BACKGROUND

Recent reports on thyroid cancer among Australian orthopaedic surgeons prompted the present study which sought to evaluate the effectiveness of lead shielding in reducing radiation exposure (RE) to the thyroid region during endo-urological procedures.

METHODS

Radiation exposure to the thyroid region of the surgeon and scrubbed nurse was monitored for 20 consecutive operations over a 6-week period by thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD). A TLD was placed over and underneath a thyroid shield of 0.5 min lead equivalent thickness to monitor the effect of shielding.

RESULTS

Eight percutaneous nephrolithotomies, seven retrograde pyelograms and ureteric stentings and five ureteroscopies for calculous disease were monitored. Total exposure time was 63.1 min. For the surgeon, the total cumulative RE over and under the lead shield was 0.46 and 0.02 mSv, respectively, equating to a 23-times reduction in RE if shielding was used. This effectively reduced RE to almost background levels, which was represented by the control TLD exposure (0.01 mSv).

CONCLUSION

Although RE without thyroid shields did not exceed current standards set by radiation safety authorities, no threshold level has been set below which thyroid carcinogenesis is unlikely to occur. Because lead shields are easy to wear and can effectively reduce RE to the thyroid region to near-background levels, they should be made easily available and used by all surgeons to avoid the harmful effects of radiation on the thyroid.

Preliminary report from the Irish Intellectual Disability Database

The Department of Health established a computerised national mental handicap database in the Republic of Ireland in 1995 for the purposes of providing accurate information for planning services for people with mental handicap. Initial estimates indicate that 27,193 people are either in receipt of or in need of mental handicap services. This paper presents preliminary prevalence data from the database which were analysed by age, sex, degree of handicap and geographical region. Comparisons are drawn with the findings of two previous censuses which are conducted in Ireland in 1974 and 1981 and implications for future service provision are discussed.

Clinical and CT evaluation of a new stretch polytetrafluoroethylene aortic graft

A new stretch polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) aortic graft became available for clinical use in early 1991. We prospectively evaluated our first 107 stretch aortic PTFE grafts by means of serial CT imaging and compared them with a cohort of concurrently placed Dacron grafts. Stretch PTFE requires no preclotting and is claimed to resist long-term dilation and conform well to anastomoses. Consecutive patients undergoing placement of stretch PTFE grafts were seen at least yearly. Within the first 2 years after implantation, contrast-enhanced CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis were obtained. Caliper measurements were made of the native arteries and the body and any limbs of the aortic grafts. Graft elongation was assessed by noting distortions from the normally circular or minimally ovoid configuration of the grafts on transverse CT images. Indications for grafting were elective repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm in 60 patients, aortoiliac occlusive disease in 31, both aneurysm and occlusive disease in eight, and ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm in eight. The overall operative mortality rate was 6.5%. There were two early postoperative graft limb thromboses resulting from hypercoagulable states, and there was one graft infection. Mean follow-up was 14.1 months (range 1 to 34 months). CT scans were obtained from 61 patients with stretch PTFE grafts and 10 with concomitantly placed Dacron grafts. Ten patients had two or more postoperative CT scans. Primary stretch PTFE patency was 98% and secondary patency, 100%. There was significantly less dilation of both the graft body and limbs in the stretch PTFE group (body mean 16.5%, range 6.3% to 28.1%; limb mean 19.3%, range 10% to 43%) compared to the Dacron group (body mean 33%, range 22% to 78%; limb mean 62%, range 12.5% to 88.9%) (p < 0.01, unpaired t test).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Hepatitis B in the non-residential mentally handicapped population

This study describes seroprevalence and risk factors for hepatitis B in seven centres caring for non-residential mentally handicapped individuals. Overall, 11% were hepatitis B marker seropositive and 4% had the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Male sex and increasing age were associated with seropositive status, and Down's syndrome was associated with the presence of HBsAg. Immediate family members of those with hepatitis B markers were screened and 22% had evidence of hepatitis B markers. Forty-one family members were identified when the mentally handicapped individual was HBsAg positive and of these 13 (32%) were seropositive. This study demonstrates that hepatitis B is a problem for the non-residential mentally handicapped population and confirms the risk of infection to their immediate families.

Fluorescence in-situ hybridisation and molecular studies used in the characterisation of a Robertsonian translocation (13q15q) in Prader-Willi syndrome

A patient with classical Prader-Willi syndrome was found to have a Robertsonian translocation 45,XY,t(13q15q)mat. On CBG banding, the translocation chromosome had a large centromere with one primary constriction. Using fluorescence in situ hybridisation, positive signals were obtained with chromosome 13 and chromosome 15 centromere probes, proving that the translocation was dicentric. NOR banding was negative in this chromosome, suggesting that the breakpoints were at 13p11 and 15p11. DNA studies showed that, while there was no deletion involving 15(q11-13), maternal uniparental disomy for chromosome 15 was present. We compare our findings with the five other cases of familial Robertsonian translocation PWS that have been reported.

Through-knee amputation in high-risk patients with vascular disease: indications, complications and rehabilitation

During a 10-year period 104 patients (mean age 72 years) had 106 through-knee amputations. Indications for surgery were: limb gangrene, 67 (64 per cent); ischaemic ulceration, 22 (21 per cent); rest pain, 9; knee contractures, 6. Thirty patients had had previous unsuccessful vascular reconstructive surgery and five had had a failed femoral embolectomy. The through-knee disarticulation used lateral skin flaps. The mortality was 21 (20 per cent). Of the 83 survivors, 59 (71 per cent) underwent uncomplicated primary wound healing; 36 (43 per cent) of the survivors were unsuitable for rehabilitation on a prosthesis. The remaining 47 (57 per cent) were walking before discharge 30-130 days (mean 68 days) after amputation. Through-knee amputation is a rapid, relatively bloodless, amputation and is a useful debridement procedure. The many surgical and functional advantages, in conjunction with the recent reports of better rehabilitation compared with the above-knee or Gritti-Stokes amputation, suggests that the through-knee amputation deserves greater consideration.

Nutrient intakes in long-stay mentally handicapped persons

A study of the dietary intake of 115 male and 217 female mentally handicapped persons aged 15-64 years in five long-stay institutions was carried out using a semi-weighed technique over 4 d. Nineteen per cent of males and 5% of females were classified as being underweight and 15% of males and 27% of females were classified as being obese. The average daily intakes of nutrients were: energy 8.8 MJ, protein 92 g, carbohydrate 218 g, fat 101 g, dietary fibre 18 g, calcium 1024 mg, iron 12.5 mg, vitamin B6 1.4 mg, vitamin B12 10.8 micrograms, ascorbic acid 68 mg. The distribution of energy between protein, carbohydrate and fat was 18, 39 and 43% respectively. Energy intakes were not related to ambulatory status, degree of mental handicap, the level of drug usage or body mass index. Energy intakes varied significantly between hospitals and between the sexes.

Synthesis and actions of a melanotropin conjugate, Ac-[Nle4, Glu(gamma-4'-hydroxyanilide)5, D-Phe7]alpha-MSH4-10-NH2, on melanocytes and melanoma cells in vitro

L-Glutamic acid (gamma-4'-hydroxyanilide) (GHB) is oxidized by tyrosinase to a quinone which inhibits DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, and mitochondrial energy production within mushrooms. It was previously shown that GHB can kill B16 melanoma cells in culture, but lacks cytotoxicity for nontyrosinase-containing cells. We have conjugated this drug to a superpotent melanotropic peptide and examined the bioactivity of this conjugate to melanoma cells. 4'-Hydroxyaniline was attached to glutamic acid at position 5 in the superpotent melanotropin fragment analogue, Ac-[Nle4, D-Phe7]alpha-MSH4-10-NH2. The melanotropin:anilide conjugate, Ac-[Nle4, Glu(gamma-4'-hydroxyanilide)5, D-Phe7]alpha-MSH4-10-NH2, was not cytotoxic to B16 or Cloudman S91 mouse melanoma cells in culture, as determined by cell counts and protein assays. Interestingly, we also found that GHB stimulated melanoma cell tyrosinase above control levels in both melanoma cell lines. In our study, GHB itself also was found not to be cytotoxic to B16 or S91 melanoma cells in culture. In the frog skin bioassay, the melanotropin conjugate was more potent than alpha-MSH or Ac-[Nle4, D-Phe7]alpha-MSH4-10 in stimulating melanosome dispersion. These results demonstrate that putative chemotherapeutic ligands can be incorporated into active-site fragment analogues of MSH without loss of biological activity.

Utilization of prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis in women of advanced maternal age in Australia, 1979-1982

This paper reports the results of a complete national survey to measure utilization rates of prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis (P.C.D.) in women of advanced maternal age in Australia. P.C.D. has been available throughout Australia for the last decade. Every laboratory in Australia providing a P.C.D. service for the years 1979-1982 took part in this study. Utilization rates (both National and State rates) by ages of mothers, are presented. Big interstate differences exist. The 1982 National P.C.D. utilization rate for pregnant women who were 40 years of age and over was 38.8 per cent, and this rate has shown an average annual increase of 9 per cent. In those four States which offered P.C.D. to pregnant women of 35 years or over the median utilization rate was 20 per cent. These Australian rates indicate an under-utilization of P.C.D. services with (in 1982) 50-80 per cent of 'at risk' women not being tested. Factors which influence this are discussed.