Erratum: Measurement of the 2νββ Decay Half-Life of ^{130}Te with CUORE [Phys. Rev. Lett. 126, 171801 (2021)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.126.171801.

Search for the Majorana Nature of Neutrinos in the Inverted Mass Ordering Region with KamLAND-Zen

The KamLAND-Zen experiment has provided stringent constraints on the neutrinoless double-beta (0νββ) decay half-life in ^{136}Xe using a xenon-loaded liquid scintillator. We report an improved search using an upgraded detector with almost double the amount of xenon and an ultralow radioactivity container, corresponding to an exposure of 970 kg yr of ^{136}Xe. These new data provide valuable insight into backgrounds, especially from cosmic muon spallation of xenon, and have required the use of novel background rejection techniques. We obtain a lower limit for the 0νββ decay half-life of T_{1/2}^{0ν}>2.3×10^{26}  yr at 90% C.L., corresponding to upper limits on the effective Majorana neutrino mass of 36-156 meV using commonly adopted nuclear matrix element calculations.

New Direct Limit on Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay Half-Life of ^{128}Te with CUORE

The Cryogenic Underground Observatory for Rare Events (CUORE) at Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso of INFN in Italy is an experiment searching for neutrinoless double beta (0νββ) decay. Its main goal is to investigate this decay in ^{130}Te, but its ton-scale mass and low background make CUORE sensitive to other rare processes as well. In this Letter, we present our first results on the search for 0νββ decay of ^{128}Te, the Te isotope with the second highest natural isotopic abundance. We find no evidence for this decay, and using a Bayesian analysis we set a lower limit on the ^{128}Te 0νββ decay half-life of T_{1/2}>3.6×10^{24}  yr (90% CI). This represents the most stringent limit on the half-life of this isotope, improving by over a factor of 30 the previous direct search results, and exceeding those from geochemical experiments for the first time.

Tripeptide loop closure: a detailed study of reconstructions based on Ramachandran distributions

Tripeptide loop closure (TLC) is a standard procedure to reconstruct protein backbone conformations, by solving a zero dimensional polynomial system yielding up to 16 solutions. In this work, we first show that multiprecision is required in a TLC solver to guarantee the existence and the accuracy of solutions. We then compare solutions yielded by the TLC solver against tripeptides from the Protein Data Bank. We show that these solutions are geometrically diverse (up to 3å RMSD with respect to the data), and sound in terms of potential energy. Finally, we compare Ramachandran distributions of data and reconstructions for the three amino acids. The distribution of reconstructions in the second angular space (φ2 , ψ2) stands out, with a rather uniform distribution leaving a central void. We anticipate that these insights, coupled to our robust implementation in the (https://sbl.inria.fr/doc/Tripeptide_loop_closure-user-manual.html), will help understanding the properties of TLC reconstructions, with potential applications to the generation of conformations of flexible loops in particular. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Measurement of the 2νββ Decay Half-Life of ^{130}Te with CUORE

We measured two-neutrino double beta decay of ^{130}Te using an exposure of 300.7 kg yr accumulated with the CUORE detector. Using a Bayesian analysis to fit simulated spectra to experimental data, it was possible to disentangle all the major background sources and precisely measure the two-neutrino contribution. The half-life is in agreement with past measurements with a strongly reduced uncertainty: T_{1/2}^{2ν}=7.71_{-0.06}^{+0.08}(stat)_{-0.15}^{+0.12}(syst)×10^{20}  yr. This measurement is the most precise determination of the ^{130}Te 2νββ decay half-life to date.

Partial Articular Resurfacing Secondary to Pediatric Hip Chondroblastoma Curettage with a 5-YearFollow-Up: A Case Report

CASE

This report describes a case of pediatric femoral head chondroblastoma, which was initially treated by minimally invasive curettage. At the 18-month follow-up, a subsequent osteochondral defect occurred, which was treated with a partial articular resurfacing system. At 5.5 years follow-up, he was symptom-free with minor degenerative x-ray changes.

CONCLUSION

We describe a technique of focal anatomic hip resurfacing using the HemiCAP system in a pediatric chondroblastoma patient who presented with an osteochondral defect after primary curettage. This approach yielded good short-term to midterm results and is a potential alternative to total hip arthroplasty in young patients.

Impact on postoperative complications of changes in skeletal muscle mass during neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastro-oesophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

Risk assessment is relevant to predict postoperative outcomes in patients with gastro-oesophageal cancer. This cohort study aimed to assess body composition changes during neoadjuvant chemotherapy and investigate their association with postoperative complications.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with gastro-oesophageal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery with curative intent between 2016 and 2019 were identified from a specific database and included in the study. CT images before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy were used to assess the skeletal muscle index, sarcopenia, and subcutaneous and visceral fat index.

RESULTS

In a cohort of 199 patients, the mean skeletal muscle index decreased during neoadjuvant therapy (from 51·187 to 49·19 cm² /m² ; P < 0·001) and the rate of sarcopenia increased (from 42·2 to 54·3 per cent; P < 0·001). A skeletal muscle index decrease greater than 5 per cent was not associated with an increased risk of total postoperative complications (odds ratio 0·91, 95 per cent c.i. 0·52 to 1·59; P = 0·736) or severe complications (odds ratio 0·66, 0·29 to 1·53; P = 0·329).

CONCLUSION

Skeletal muscle index decreased during neoadjuvant therapy but was not associated with postoperative complications.

Improved Limit on Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay in ^{130} Te with CUORE

We report new results from the search for neutrinoless double-beta decay in ^{130} Te with the CUORE detector. This search benefits from a fourfold increase in exposure, lower trigger thresholds, and analysis improvements relative to our previous results. We observe a background of (1.38±0.07)×10^{-2}  counts/(keV kg yr)) in the 0νββ decay region of interest and, with a total exposure of 372.5 kg yr, we attain a median exclusion sensitivity of 1.7×10^{25}  yr. We find no evidence for 0νββ decay and set a 90% credibility interval Bayesian lower limit of 3.2×10^{25}  yr on the ^{130} Te half-life for this process. In the hypothesis that 0νββ decay is mediated by light Majorana neutrinos, this results in an upper limit on the effective Majorana mass of 75-350 meV, depending on the nuclear matrix elements used.

Precision Analysis of the ^{136}Xe Two-Neutrino ββ Spectrum in KamLAND-Zen and Its Impact on the Quenching of Nuclear Matrix Elements

We present a precision analysis of the ^{136}Xe two-neutrino ββ electron spectrum above 0.8 MeV, based on high-statistics data obtained with the KamLAND-Zen experiment. An improved formalism for the two-neutrino ββ rate allows us to measure the ratio of the leading and subleading 2νββ nuclear matrix elements (NMEs), ξ_{31}^{2ν}=-0.26_{-0.25}^{+0.31}. Theoretical predictions from the nuclear shell model and the majority of the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA) calculations are consistent with the experimental limit. However, part of the ξ_{31}^{2ν} range allowed by the QRPA is excluded by the present measurement at the 90% confidence level. Our analysis reveals that predicted ξ_{31}^{2ν} values are sensitive to the quenching of NMEs and the competing contributions from low- and high-energy states in the intermediate nucleus. Because these aspects are also at play in neutrinoless ββ decay, ξ_{31}^{2ν} provides new insights toward reliable neutrinoless ββ NMEs.

First Results from CUORE: A Search for Lepton Number Violation via 0νββ Decay of ^{130}Te

The CUORE experiment, a ton-scale cryogenic bolometer array, recently began operation at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. The array represents a significant advancement in this technology, and in this work we apply it for the first time to a high-sensitivity search for a lepton-number-violating process: ^{130}Te neutrinoless double-beta decay. Examining a total TeO_{2} exposure of 86.3 kg yr, characterized by an effective energy resolution of (7.7±0.5)  keV FWHM and a background in the region of interest of (0.014±0.002)  counts/(keV kg yr), we find no evidence for neutrinoless double-beta decay. Including systematic uncertainties, we place a lower limit on the decay half-life of T_{1/2}^{0ν}(^{130}Te)>1.3×10^{25}  yr (90% C.L.); the median statistical sensitivity of this search is 7.0×10^{24}  yr. Combining this result with those of two earlier experiments, Cuoricino and CUORE-0, we find T_{1/2}^{0ν}(^{130}Te)>1.5×10^{25}  yr (90% C.L.), which is the most stringent limit to date on this decay. Interpreting this result as a limit on the effective Majorana neutrino mass, we find m_{ββ}<(110-520)  meV, where the range reflects the nuclear matrix element estimates employed.

Publisher's Note: Search for Majorana Neutrinos Near the Inverted Mass Hierarchy Region with KamLAND-Zen [Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 082503 (2016)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.117.082503.

Search for Majorana Neutrinos Near the Inverted Mass Hierarchy Region with KamLAND-Zen

We present an improved search for neutrinoless double-beta (0νββ) decay of ^{136}Xe in the KamLAND-Zen experiment. Owing to purification of the xenon-loaded liquid scintillator, we achieved a significant reduction of the ^{110m}Ag contaminant identified in previous searches. Combining the results from the first and second phase, we obtain a lower limit for the 0νββ decay half-life of T_{1/2}^{0ν}>1.07×10^{26}  yr at 90% C.L., an almost sixfold improvement over previous limits. Using commonly adopted nuclear matrix element calculations, the corresponding upper limits on the effective Majorana neutrino mass are in the range 61-165 meV. For the most optimistic nuclear matrix elements, this limit reaches the bottom of the quasidegenerate neutrino mass region.

Long-term monitoring of captive red drum Sciaenops ocellatus reveals that calling incidence and structure correlate with egg deposition

In the present study, quantitative data were collected to clarify the relationship between calling, call structure and eggs produced in a captive population of red drum Sciaenops ocellatus. Sciaenops ocellatus were held in four tanks equipped with long-term acoustic loggers to record underwater sound throughout a simulated reproductive season. Maximal sound production of captive S. ocellatus occurred when the photoperiod shifted from 13·0 to 12·5 h of light, and the water temperature decreased to c. 25° C. These captive settings are similar to the amount of daylight and water temperatures observed during the autumn, which is the primary spawning period for S. ocellatus. Sciaenops ocellatus exhibited daily patterns of calling with peak sound production occurring in the evenings between 0·50 h before dark and 1·08 h after dark. Spawning occurred only on evenings in which S. ocellatus were calling, and spawning was more productive when S. ocellatus produced more calls with longer durations and more pulses. This study provides ample evidence that sound production equates to spawning in captive S. ocellatus when calls are longer than 0·8 s and contain more than seven pulses. The fact that more calling, longer calls and higher sound pressure levels are associated with spawns that are more productive indicates that acoustic metrics can provide quantitative information on spawning in the wild.

Search for Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay of (130)Te with CUORE-0

We report the results of a search for neutrinoless double-beta decay in a 9.8 kg yr exposure of (130)Te using a bolometric detector array, CUORE-0. The characteristic detector energy resolution and background level in the region of interest are 5.1±0.3  keV FWHM and 0.058±0.004(stat)±0.002(syst)counts/(keV kg yr), respectively. The median 90% C.L. lower-limit half-life sensitivity of the experiment is 2.9×10(24)  yr and surpasses the sensitivity of previous searches. We find no evidence for neutrinoless double-beta decay of (130)Te and place a Bayesian lower bound on the decay half-life, T(1/2)(0ν)>2.7×10(24)  yr at 90% C.L. Combining CUORE-0 data with the 19.75 kg yr exposure of (130)Te from the Cuoricino experiment we obtain T(1/2)(0ν)>4.0×10(24)  yr at 90% C.L. (Bayesian), the most stringent limit to date on this half-life. Using a range of nuclear matrix element estimates we interpret this as a limit on the effective Majorana neutrino mass, m(ββ)<270-760  meV.

Limit on neutrinoless ββ decay of 136Xe from the first phase of KamLAND-Zen and comparison with the positive claim in 76Ge

We present results from the first phase of the KamLAND-Zen double-beta decay experiment, corresponding to an exposure of 89.5 kg yr of (136)Xe. We obtain a lower limit for the neutrinoless double-beta decay half-life of T(1/2)(0ν)>1.9×10(25) yr at 90% C.L. The combined results from KamLAND-Zen and EXO-200 give T(1/2)(0ν)>3.4×10(25) yr at 90% C.L., which corresponds to a Majorana neutrino mass limit of <m(ββ)> <(120-250) meV based on a representative range of available matrix element calculations. Using those calculations, this result excludes the Majorana neutrino mass range expected from the neutrinoless double-beta decay detection claim in (76)Ge, reported by a part of the Heidelberg-Moscow Collaboration, at more than 97.5% C.L.

The role of beta-endorphin in the pathophysiology of major depression

A role for beta-endorphin (beta-END) in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) is suggested by both animal research and studies examining clinical populations. The major etiological theories of depression include brain regions and neural systems that interact with opioid systems and beta-END. Recent preclinical data have demonstrated multiple roles for beta-END in the regulation of complex homeostatic and behavioural processes that are affected during a depressive episode. Additionally, beta-END inputs to regulatory pathways involving feeding behaviours, motivation, and specific types of motor activity have important implications in defining the biological foundations for specific depressive symptoms. Early research linking beta-END to MDD did so in the context of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, where it was suggested that HPA axis dysregulation may account for depressive symptoms in some individuals. The primary aims of this paper are to use both preclinical and clinical research (a) to critically review data that explores potential roles for beta-END in the pathophysiology of MDD and (b) to highlight gaps in the literature that limit further development of etiological theories of depression and testable hypotheses. In addition to examining methodological and theoretical challenges of past clinical studies, we summarize studies that have investigated basal beta-END levels in MDD and that have used challenge tests to examine beta-END responses to a variety of experimental paradigms. A brief description of the synthesis, location in the CNS and behavioural pharmacology of this neuropeptide is also provided to frame this discussion. Given the lack of clinical improvement observed with currently available antidepressants in a significant proportion of depressed individuals, it is imperative that novel mechanisms be investigated for antidepressant potential. We conclude that the renewed interest in elucidating the role of beta-END in the pathophysiology of MDD must be paralleled by consensus building within the research community around the heterogeneity inherent in mood disorders, standardization of experimental protocols, improved discrimination of POMC products in analytical techniques and consistent attention paid to important confounds like age and gender.

Precision measurement of neutrino oscillation parameters with KamLAND

The KamLAND experiment has determined a precise value for the neutrino oscillation parameter Deltam21(2) and stringent constraints on theta12. The exposure to nuclear reactor antineutrinos is increased almost fourfold over previous results to 2.44 x 10(32) proton yr due to longer livetime and an enlarged fiducial volume. An undistorted reactor nu[over]e energy spectrum is now rejected at >5sigma. Analysis of the reactor spectrum above the inverse beta decay energy threshold, and including geoneutrinos, gives a best fit at Deltam21(2)=7.58(-0.13)(+0.14)(stat) -0.15+0.15(syst) x 10(-5) eV2 and tan2theta12=0.56(-0.07)+0.10(stat) -0.06+0.10(syst). Local Deltachi2 minima at higher and lower Deltam21(2) are disfavored at >4sigma. Combining with solar neutrino data, we obtain Deltam21(2)=7.59(-0.21)+0.21 x 10(-5) eV2 and tan2theta12=0.47(-0.05)+0.06.

Search for the invisible decay of neutrons with KamLAND

The Kamioka Liquid scintillator Anti-Neutrino Detector is used in a search for single neutron or two-neutron intranuclear disappearance that would produce holes in the -shell energy level of (12)C nuclei. Such holes could be created as a result of nucleon decay into invisible modes (inv), e.g., n--> 3v or nn--> 2v. The deexcitation of the corresponding daughter nucleus results in a sequence of space and time-correlated events observable in the liquid scintillator detector. We report on new limits for one- and two-neutron disappearance: tau(n--> inv) > 5.8 x 10(29) years and tau (nn--> inv) > 1.4 x 10(30) years at 90% C.L. These results represent an improvement of factors of approximately 3 and >10(4) and over previous experiments.

Experimental investigation of geologically produced antineutrinos with KamLAND

The detection of electron antineutrinos produced by natural radioactivity in the Earth could yield important geophysical information. The Kamioka liquid scintillator antineutrino detector (KamLAND) has the sensitivity to detect electron antineutrinos produced by the decay of 238U and 232Th within the Earth. Earth composition models suggest that the radiogenic power from these isotope decays is 16 TW, approximately half of the total measured heat dissipation rate from the Earth. Here we present results from a search for geoneutrinos with KamLAND. Assuming a Th/U mass concentration ratio of 3.9, the 90 per cent confidence interval for the total number of geoneutrinos detected is 4.5 to 54.2. This result is consistent with the central value of 19 predicted by geophysical models. Although our present data have limited statistical power, they nevertheless provide by direct means an upper limit (60 TW) for the radiogenic power of U and Th in the Earth, a quantity that is currently poorly constrained.

Noradrenergic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of post-traumatic stress disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychiatric illness that may develop in individuals after exposure to a traumatic event. Recent data suggest that trauma and/or long-term stressors can cause alterations in the functioning of neuroanatomical structures and neural networks throughout the central nervous system. Specifically, dysregulation in central and perhaps, peripheral noradrenergic neural networks has been implicated as the cause of specific symptom clusters in the pathophysiology of PTSD. In this review, both clinical and preclinical data are presented to highlight types of noradrenergic dysfunction observed in individuals with PTSD. Additionally, the role of noradrenaline dysregulation in the acquisition/initiation, and maintenance of hyperarousal and reexperiencing symptom clusters in PTSD will be addressed.

Effects of chronic lithium and sodium valproate on concentrations of brain amino acids

The present study was designed to determine if the mood stabilizers, lithium and valproate, have common effects on concentrations of amino acid neurotransmitters which may be related to their mechanisms of action. Two separate groups of rats were administered therapeutic doses of lithium, sodium valproate, or saline for 2 weeks. Whole brain extracts were then examined using either high-field 1H NMR spectroscopy or HPLC. Both drugs decreased whole brain concentrations of aspartate, glutamate, and taurine while brain concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and alanine decreased following chronic sodium valproate administration but not following chronic lithium administration. These findings indicate that lithium and sodium valproate share common effects on the concentrations of certain amino acid neurotransmitters in whole brain which may be related to their mechanisms of action in bipolar disorder.

Chronic lithium and sodium valproate both decrease the concentration of myoinositol and increase the concentration of inositol monophosphates in rat brain

One of the mechanisms underlying lithium's efficacy as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder has been proposed to be via its effects on the phosphoinositol cycle (PI cycle), where it is an inhibitor of the enzyme converting inositol monophosphates to myoinositol. In contrast, sodium valproate, another commonly used mood stabilizer, appears to have no direct effects on this enzyme and was thus believed to have a different mechanism of action. In the present study, high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used to study the chronic effects of both lithium and sodium valproate on the concentrations of myoinositol and inositol monophosphates in rat brain. As predicted, lithium-treated rats exhibited a significant increase in the concentration of inositol monophosphates and a significant decrease in myoinositol concentration compared to saline-treated controls. However, unexpectedly, sodium valproate administration produced exactly the same results as lithium administration. These novel findings suggest that both lithium and sodium valproate may share a common mechanism of action in the treatment of bipolar disorder via actions on the PI cycle.

Treatment of anaemia in the polytrauma Jehovah's Witness

The management of Jehovah's Witnesses can prove quite challenging to the surgeon who routinely uses blood and blood products in the treatment of anaemia and hypovolaemia. The medical and legal dilemmas are exacerbated when the patient has a critically low haemoglobin level or has suffered life-threatening blood loss following polytrauma. It is essential that the treating physician should have some knowledge and understanding of the beliefs of the Jehovah's Witness in order to effectively minimise and treat blood loss. This paper reviews the ethical and medicolegal aspects involved, as well as alternatives to allogenic blood products in the treatment of anaemia in the polytrauma Jehovah's Witness patient.

Development of a model for occipital fixation--validation of an analogue bone material

Several implant systems may be used to fuse the skull to the upper cervical spine (occipitocervical fusion). Current biomechanical evaluation is restricted by the limitations of human cadaveric specimens. This paper describes the design and validation of a synthetic testing model of the occipital bone. Data from thickness measurement and pull-out strength testing of a series of human cadaveric skulls was used in the design of a high-density rigid polyurethane foam model. The synthetic occipital model demonstrated repeatable and consistent morphological and biomechanical properties. The model provides a standardized environment for evaluation of occipital implants.

A prospective study for evaluation of knee effusion after hip surgery

Knee effusion is a common occurrence in elderly patients following hip surgery. We prospectively studied 106 patients undergoing proximal femoral surgery. These patients were examined pre-operatively, on days 4 and 8, and six weeks post operatively for the presence of an ipsilateral knee effusion. 71 patients had undergone Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), 26 Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) insertion and 9 had hemiarthroplasty. The incidence of pre-operative ipsilateral knee effusion was 13% (14 patients). 42% (44 patients) had an effusion at one week post operatively and 12% (13 patients) at 6 weeks. 57% (60 patients) of the study group had radiological evidence of osteoarthritis in their knees. However, the incidence of effusion in patients with and without arthritis was the same. The majority of these effusions resolved after six weeks with no residual effects.

Treatment of vinorelbine-associated tumor pain

Vinorelbine is a synthetic vinca alkaloid used for the treatment of Hodgkin's disease and metastatic breast, non-small-cell lung, and ovarian cancers. Vinorelbine-associated tumor pain can be so severe that patients are unable to complete therapy. We present a series of three patients who were premedicated with ketorolac in an attempt to control infusion-related pain. Two of our patients responded well and were able to complete their courses of vinorelbine therapy. The third had persistently severe pain, and therapy was terminated because of pain and lack of response to vinorelbine treatment. These three cases support the hypothesis that surgery or radiation therapy before the use of vinorelbine may increase the likelihood of experiencing associated tumor pain. Premedication with ketorolac and morphine before vinorelbine infusion is proposed as a reasonable prophylactic treatment for associated tumor pain.

Morphine-Infused silver sulfadiazine (MISS) cream for burn analgesia: a pilot study

Pain is considered the most distressing symptom of a burn wound, with analgesia usually provided via oral or parenteral medications. Use of systemic opioids can be complicated by fluctuations in bioavailability, absorption, and clearance of drugs caused by the burn. There has been little research done in the area of topical medications for burn analgesia. The following is a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study assessing the safety (side effects) and efficacy (pain ratings and medications administered) of morphine-infused silver sulfadiazine cream for burn pain. Four patients are reported on (2 in each group). Only participants taking placebo reported side effects related to morphine and necessitated anxiolytic medications. Pain ratings in the treatment group ranged from 0 to 7 with a mean of 2.1, whereas the placebo group's ratings ranged from 2 to 8 with a mean of 5.6. The placebo group averaged 55.3 mg oral morphine per half day, whereas the treatment group averaged 42.9 mg.

Chronic lithium and sodium valproate both decrease the concentration of myo-inositol and increase the concentration of inositol monophosphates in rat brain

One of the mechanisms underlying lithium's efficacy as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder has been proposed to be via its effects on the phosphoinositol cycle (PI-cycle), where it is an inhibitor of the enzyme converting inositol monophosphates to myo-inositol. In contrast, sodium valproate, another commonly used mood stabilizer, appears to have no direct effects on this enzyme and was thus believed to have a different mechanism of action. In the present study, high resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used to study the chronic effects of both lithium and sodium valproate on the concentrations of myo-inositol and inositol monophosphates in rat brain. As predicted, lithium-treated rats exhibited a significant increase in the concentration of inositol monophosphates and a significant decrease in myo-inositol concentration compared to saline-treated controls. However, unexpectedly, sodium valproate administration produced exactly the same results as lithium administration. These novel findings suggest that both lithium and sodium valproate may share a common mechanism of action in the treatment of bipolar disorder via actions on the PI-cycle.

Tibial hemimelia of a different class

A variant of tibial hemimelia, previously undescribed in the literature and not classifiable by either of the established classification systems, is described. The features of this condition include a short, deformed tibia; proximal subluxation of the fibula at the knee; a normal knee joint and an ankle joint that may look abnormal but falls short of true diastasis of the joint. Treatment of two cases by differential lengthening of the tibia and fibula using the Ilizarov device is described. This form of tibial hemimelia should be recognised as a separate variant as preservation of the foot and ankle with expected excellent function should be possible, unlike the more severe forms of this condition.

Screening for urinary tract infections in a gynaecological setting: validity and cost-effectiveness of reagent strips

This study aims to test the validity and cost-effectiveness of reagent-strip analysis compared with microbiological laboratory testing for mass screening of urine for urinary tract infections in a gynaecological setting. Over a six-month period, urine samples from a convenient group of 228 women presenting in a gynaecological ward of an NHS Trust hospital were tested using Ames 8SG reagent strips to detect leucocyte esterase and nitrite. Total bacterial counts were also carried out; urine culture was recorded as positive if there was > 10(5) organisms/mL. Validity of the dipstick tests was measured, using four criteria (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value [PPV] and negative predictive value [NPV]), against the results of laboratory analysis. The combined use of the leucocyte esterase and nitrite tests produced results as follows: sensitivity, 96.4%; specificity, 88.5%; PPV, 54%; and NPV, 99.4%. Cost-effectiveness for visible costs was calculated as 48.6% for the 12.3% rate of infection in this study. The use of reagent strips in a mass-screening programme in a gynaecological setting proved both valid and cost-effective.

Oesophagitis-induced changes in capsaicin-sensitive tachykininergic pathways in the ferret lower oesophageal sphincter

Prolonged oesophageal acidification may impair lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) function in reflux disease. The aim of this study was to investigate aspects of altered LOS innervation in a model of oesophagitis. Oesophagitis was induced by acid (HCl, 0.15 M) and pepsin (0.1% w/v) infusions in anaesthetized ferrets. LOS muscle strip responses to the following stimuli were measured in vitro from control and acid/pepsin-treated ferrets: electrical field stimulation (EFS; 1-50 Hz), potassium chloride KCl; 20 mM), substance P, [beta-Ala8]-neurokinin A 4-10, [Sar9, Met (O2)11]-substance P (all 10(-10) to 10(-6) M) and capsaicin (10(-8) to 10(-6) M). LOS relaxation occurred in response to all stimuli except [beta-Ala8]-neurokinin A 4-10, which evoked contraction. In muscle strips from acid/pepsin-treated animals there were no differences in amplitude or sensitivity of relaxation following EFS, KCl or substance P vs controls. However, the inhibitory response to capsaicin was increased four-fold (10(-8) M; P < 0.05) and an increased sensitivity of the inhibitory response to [Sar9, Met (O2)11]-substance P occurred (pD2 = 8.64 +/- 0.12 acid/pepsin-treated vs 7.94 +/- 0.24 control, P < 0.05). We conclude that in acute oesophagitis, increased sensitivity of capsaicin-activated inhibitory pathways occurs in which activation of NK-1 receptors plays an integral role in the ferret LOS.

Tritiated-naloxone binding to brainstem opioid receptors in the sudden infant death syndrome

The sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is defined as the sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age that remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation, including a complete autopsy. We hypothesized that SIDS is associated with altered 3H - naloxone binding to opioid receptors in brainstem nuclei related to respiratory and autonomic control. We analyzed 3H - naloxone binding in 21 regions in SIDS and control brainstems using quantitative tissue receptor autoradiography. Three groups were analyzed: SIDS (n = 45); acute controls (n = 14); and a chronic group with oxygenation disorders (n = 15). Opioid binding was heavily concentrated in the caudal nucleus of the solitary tract, nucleus parabrachialis medialis, spinal trigeminal nucleus, inferior olive, and interpeduncular nucleus in all cases analyzed (n = 74). The arcuate nucleus on the ventral medullary surface contained negligible binding in all cases (n = 74), and therefore binding was not measurable at this site. We found no significant differences among the three groups in the age-adjusted mean 3H - naloxone binding in 21 brainstem sites analyzed. The only differences we have found to date between SIDS and acute controls are decreases in 3H - quinuclidinyl benzilate binding to muscarinic cholinergic receptors and in 3H - kainate binding to kainate receptors in the arcuate nucleus in alternate sections of this same data set. The present study suggests that there is not a defect in opioid receptor binding in cardiorespiratory nuclei in SIDS brainstems.

A scientific plan for the evaluation of alternative medicine in the treatment of HIV/AIDS

The Bastyr University AIDS Research Center was established in October 1994 through a 3-year cooperative grant with the Office of Alternative Medicine, National Institutes of Health. The mission of the Center is to (1) describe forms and patterns of use of alternative medical therapies for HIV infection and AIDS prescribed by practitioners and self-administered by HIV-positive patients in the United States, (2) screen and evaluate therapies for HIV/AIDS from five program areas of alternative medicine, and (3) provide consultation and support in the scientific evaluation of alternative therapies. To meet these goals, the Center has established a network of cooperating alternative medicine clinics and is recruiting HIV-positive men and women who are using alternative medicine to participate in the study. It is collecting data every 6 months from 1500 HIV-positive patients throughout the United States and has created a centralized database to compare outcomes (CD4+ lymphocytes, HIV RNA, CDC class progression, weight, quality of life, and survival) for a variety of alternative therapies. The Center will determine whether patients who use both conventional medicine and alternative medicine have different outcomes from patients who use only conventional medicine. The occurrence of AIDS-related opportunistic infections and neoplasms in HIV-positive patients who are using specific alternative therapies will be compared with the incidence in those who use other medical treatment. This article describes the scientific plan for the study.

Onset of menses in two adult patients with Prader-Willi syndrome treated with fluoxetine

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is characterized by hypotonia at birth, hypogonadism, early childhood obesity, and mental deficiency. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is a major characteristic of patients with PWS, and it is speculated to be due to hypothalamic insufficiency. Two adult female patients with PWS and no prior history of menses are presented. Both of these patients were treated with fluoxetine for psychopharmacologic management of obsessive features in the form of food preoccupation and hyperphagia or for compulsive behaviors in the form of severe self-injurious behaviors. The two female patients with PWS who had primary amenorrhea developed vaginal bleeding believed to be menses following at least 6 months of treatment with fluoxetine. Mature hypothalamic function is characterized by pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in a critical range of frequency and amplitude. Central nervous system neurotransmitters may modify GnRH secretion. Fluoxetine specifically inhibits the reuptake of serotonin which may impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system in female patients with PWS.

Treatment of upper airway obstruction associated with goiter

The authors examined the resolution of spirometric indices of upper airway obstruction (UAO) following surgical treatment for goiter. The results of a recent study suggest that the integrity of the upper airway remains intact but prolonged recovery is required.

Pulmonary complications of acute myelogenous leukemia

Pulmonary complications of acute myelogenous leukemia are attributed to infection, hemorrhage, or toxicity from chemotherapeutic agents. Rarely, damaged leukemic blast cells in lung parenchyma result in chest x-ray abnormalities and respiratory symptoms.

Intravascular ultrasound estimation of arterial stenosis

The evaluation of the degree of reduction in the cross-sectional area of an artery has important pathophysiologic and therapeutic implications. Currently, no technique can easily provide this information. In this in vitro study we evaluated the potential of a new imaging technique, intravascular high frequency ultrasound angioscopy, in the estimation of percentage of cross-sectional area stenosis of an artery. To do this, we compared intravascular high frequency ultrasound to previously-validated external high frequency ultrasound and to anatomic estimation of arterial stenosis. Using a prototype intraluminal imaging catheter with a 20 MHz ultrasound transducer at its tip, we imaged 20 arterial segments of various size (15 to 90 mm2 lumen area by anatomy) in the control state and after experimental stenosis. These arterial segments were also imaged by external high frequency ultrasound. Lumen areas were measured from calibrated ultrasound images in the control state and after stenosis, and percentage of cross-sectional area stenosis was calculated. These data were compared to the percentage of area stenosis derived from calibrated anatomic photographs of the arteries taken in the control state and after stenosis. Both intravascular ultrasound angioscopy and external high frequency ultrasound yielded high-resolution, two-dimensional, circumferential images of the arteries. Alterations in vessel area and shape were apparent after creation of stenosis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1988 and its impact on employer-sponsored retiree medical plans

The Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1988 (MECCA) significantly enlarges the scope of federally funded health care benefits for elderly Americans. Since Medicare's inception in 1965, several inadequacies have become apparent, especially the absence of coverage for catastrophic illnesses. Now MECCA inhibits the potential financial ruin of elderly Americans faced with overwhelming, extended medical costs. The Act is budget-neutral and can reduce employers' Social Security payroll tax costs. However, the costs and complications of the maintenance-of-effort provision refunds and potential employee resistance to raised Medicare premiums, which could force some beneficiaries to cancel Part B participation and increase reliance on employer-sponsored plans, do pose problems for employers. Options and alternatives to these new opportunities and concerns are detailed herein.

Treatment of cardiogenic shock by emergency aortic balloon valvuloplasty

We used aortic balloon valvuloplasty to successfully treat two patients who had cardiogenic shock associated with calcific aortic stenosis. In both patients, the resulting reduction in mean aortic valve gradient and increase in calculated aortic valve area allowed prompt discontinuation of treatment with pressors and a return to near normal renal function. Both patients were discharged within 10 days after valvuloplasty and showed significant, long-lasting clinical improvement. Aortic balloon valvuloplasty can reverse cardiogenic shock associated with calcific aortic stenosis.

Relation between postphlebitic changes in the deep veins and results of surgical treatment of venous ulcers

41 patients with venous ulceration, investigated by ascending phlebography, had operations to ligate incompetent calf perforating veins. Recurrent ulceration developed within five years of operation in all 23 patients with evidence of deep-vein damage on the initial phlebograms. Only 1 of the seventeen patients with normal deep veins had a recurrent ulcer during the same period of follow-up. Thus local surgery to the perforating veins in postphlebitic limbs was shown to be ineffective.