Support-Seeking and Active Coping Mitigate the Association Between Posttrauma Symptom Severity and Attachment Insecurity in a Community Sample of Trauma Survivors

There is an established association between posttrauma symptom severity (PTSS) and attachment insecurity (anxiety and avoidance). However, few studies have examined this association among community samples of trauma-exposed individuals and identified factors that might moderate these associations. We sought to (a) replicate existing associations between PTSS and attachment insecurity in a community sample of trauma survivors and (b) determine the potential moderating role of support-seeking and coping behaviors. Our sample included 824 trauma-exposed individuals (MPCL-5 = 31.6, SD = 20.0; Mage = 37.4, SD = 13.2; 69.3% female; 79.1% White; 77.2% heterosexual). Participants completed an online survey via Amazon Mechanical Turk. Linear regression and moderation analyses tested the association between PTSS and attachment insecurity and whether support-seeking and coping behaviors moderated these associations. PTSS was positively associated with global attachment anxiety (β = .48, 95% confidence interval [.42, .54]) and global attachment avoidance (β = .06, [.15, .29]). The association between PTSS and attachment avoidance was weaker for people who reported greater instrumental and emotional support-seeking or greater active coping. This study provides evidence for the association between PTSS and attachment insecurity. Findings underscore the need to understand causal mechanisms underlying this association and critically evaluate how existing and future interventions can buffer attachment insecurity in trauma-exposed individuals.

Associations Between Latent Classes of Trauma Exposure and Minority Stressors and Substance Use Among Cisgender Sexual Minority Women

Psychosocial stressors (e.g., minority stressors, trauma exposure) profoundly impact sexual minority women's (SMW's) risk of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. However, research has not examined whether there are distinct typologies (i.e., patterns) of psychosocial stressors and whether these vary based on sociodemographic characteristics or are differentially associated with AOD outcomes (e.g., alcohol dependence) among SMW. This study aimed to identify latent classes of SMW reporting distinct typologies of psychosocial stressors and examine predictors and outcomes of latent classes of psychosocial stressors among SMW. Participants included a community sample of 602 SMW (M_age = 39.9, SD = 14.0; 74.0% lesbian; 37.4% White, 36.6% Black, 22.3% Latinx; 26.6% annual income ≤$14,999). Latent class analysis was used to identify typologies of psychosocial stressors. Regression analyses were employed to examine sociodemographic predictors and AOD outcomes of class membership. Three classes of psychosocial stressors emerged. Participants in Class 1 were likely to report relatively low adversity. SMW in Class 2, who reported childhood physical abuse (CPA), severe childhood sexual abuse, and adult physical assault, were vulnerable to discrimination and stigma consciousness. A distinct subgroup of SMW (Class 3) was at heightened risk of CPA, adult sexual assault (ASA), and stigma consciousness. Older SMW, Black SMW, and SMW with lower social support were more likely to be in classes characterized by higher adversity. Older SMW were at disproportionate risk of CPA and ASA. Different combinations of psychosocial stressors were uniquely associated with AOD outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of considering within-group heterogeneity in SMW's differential risk of psychosocial stressors and AOD outcomes. Routine screening of psychosocial stressors across several dimensions, brief interventions targeting AOD outcomes, and policies mitigating structural drivers of SMW's increased risk of trauma and minority stressors may be especially important for older SMW, Black SMW, and SMW who lack social support.

"I Know Myself Again, Which Makes Me Motivated for Life": Feasibility and Acceptability of Using Experience Sampling Methods With Trauma-Exposed Sexual Minority Women

Intensive longitudinal designs (e.g., experience sampling methods [ESMs]) hold promise for examining the dynamic interplay between daily adversity, coping strategies, and behavioral and mental health issues among marginalized populations. However, few studies have used intensive longitudinal designs with sexual minority women (SMW), an understudied and at-risk population. We assessed feasibility and acceptability of using once-daily, interval-contingent ESM with 161 trauma-exposed SMW (Mage = 29.1, SD = 7.57); 20.5% nonbinary; 32.3% queer; 52.2% people of color; 14.3% with annual incomes ≤$9,999; and 30.4% in Southern United States (U.S.). SMW completed one comprehensive online baseline assessment and once-daily brief online assessments for 14 days. Daily surveys assessed past-24-hour stressors, stress responses, and behavioral and mental health symptoms. At the end of the 14-day ESM period, SMW answered three open-ended questions about participating in this study and about research with SMW. Regarding feasibility, 151 participants (94.0%) initiated the post-baseline ESM study portion and 72 (45.0%) completed all 14 daily surveys. An average of 11.70 (median = 13, SD = 3.31) daily surveys (83.5%) were completed by those who initiated the ESM. ESM completion level varied by race/ethnicity and U.S. region. Qualitative acceptability data revealed several themes, namely that SMW (1) enjoyed participating and felt positively about the ESM experience, (2) felt supported to reflect on impacts of early and ongoing stressors, (3) appreciated the chance to self-reflect and challenge existing thought patterns and coping behaviors, (4) recognized their capacity to tolerate trauma-related distress, (5) recommended that researchers focus on SMW's diverse stressors and daily experiences, (6) wanted a rationale for providing sensitive information and more space to narrate their experiences, and (7) recognized the need for affirmative treatment and policies. Findings could inform modifications to ESM protocols to improve their feasibility and acceptability among trauma-exposed SMW and promote ongoing utility of this valuable method.

Probable PTSD, PTSD symptom severity, and comorbid PTSD and hazardous drinking among sexual minority women compared to heterosexual women: A meta-analysis

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is more prevalent among sexual minority women (SMW) than among heterosexual women. PTSD risk varies among SMW, but no meta-analysis has clarified sexual identity-related disparities in probable PTSD among women or SMW's heterogeneity in PTSD risk. SMW are also at pronounced risk of comorbid PTSD and hazardous drinking (HD). However, the difference in comorbid PTSD/HD between SMW and heterosexual women is understudied. This meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of differences between SMW and heterosexual women and among SMW across demographic characteristics. Peer-reviewed publications that were written in English and reported quantitative data on PTSD specific to SMW were included. Eligible publications (n = 45) were identified through a systematic search of 11 electronic databases, supplemented by a search of reference lists of relevant papers. We found that probable PTSD, PTSD symptom severity, and probable comorbid PTSD/HD are highly prevalent among SMW, with SMW of color, transgender and gender diverse people, and bi+ women (e.g., bisexual, pansexual, queer) being at greatest risk. These results emphasize the need to improve accurate assessment of trauma-related sequelae among SMW and to develop, disseminate, and implement culturally sensitive treatments to reduce PTSD and comorbid PTSD/HD among at-risk SMW.

Structural determinants of tailored behavioral health services for sexual and gender minorities in the United States, 2010 to 2020: a panel analysis

BACKGROUND

Research indicates that tailored programming for sexual and gender minority (SGM; e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) people, compared to non-tailored programming, is effective for reducing the disproportionate health burden SGM people experience relative to the general population. However, the availability of SGM-tailored programming is often over-reported and inconsistent across behavioral health (i.e., substance use and mental health) facilities in the United States (U.S.).

METHODS

Using panel analysis, the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS), and the National Mental Health Services Survey (N-MHSS), this study examines structural stigma and government funding as two structural determinants affecting the availability of SGM-tailored programming in the U.S.

RESULTS

Results indicated that from 2010 to 2020, reductions in structural stigma (i.e., increases in state-level supportive SGM policies) were positively associated with increases in the proportion of substance use treatment facilities offering SGM-tailored programming. This effect was significant after controlling for over-reporting of SGM-tailored programming and time- and state-specific heterogeneity. On average, the effect of reduced structural stigma resulted in approximately two new SGM-tailored programs in the short term and about 31 new SGM-tailored programs in the long term across U.S. substance use treatment facilities. Structural stigma did not predict the availability of SGM-tailored programming in mental health treatment facilities. Government funding was not significant in either data set. However, without correcting for over-reporting, government funding became a significant predictor of the availability of SGM-tailored programming at substance use treatment facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Because SGM-tailored programming facilitates access to healthcare and the current study found longitudinal associations between structural stigma and the availability of SGM-tailored programming in substance use treatment facilities, our findings support claims that reducing structural stigma increases access to behavioral health treatment specifically and healthcare generally among SGM people. This study's findings also indicate the importance of correcting for over-reporting of SGM-tailored programming, raising concerns about how respondents perceive the N-SSATS and N-MHSS questions about SGM-tailored programming. Implications for future research using the N-SSATS and N-MHSS data and for public health policy are discussed.

A latent class analysis of tailored substance use treatment programs: Implications for treating syndemic conditions facing sexual and gender minority populations

BACKGROUND

Syndemics (i.e., multiple, co-occurring, and synergistic conditions) contribute to elevated substance use among sexual and gender minority (SGM) people relative to heterosexual, cisgender people. Research suggests that syndemic-informed and SGM-tailored treatments are effective in substance use treatment among SGM people. However, few studies have examined 1) the proportion of substance use treatment facilities offering syndemic-informed, SGM-tailored treatment programming; and 2) the availability and accessibility of syndemic-informed, SGM-tailored treatment programs across the U.S.

METHODS

We used the 2020 National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS) dataset to perform a latent class analysis examining whether substance use treatment facilities' tailored treatment programs cluster together to form distinct classes indicating whether facilities offer syndemic-informed and SGM-tailored programming. We then used multinomial logistic regression to examine associations between class membership and facility availability and accessibility.

RESULTS

Analyses revealed four classes of substance use treatment facilities' tailored programs. Facilities with syndemic-informed and SGM-tailored treatment programs compared to facilities with no tailored programs were more likely to be in the Northeast compared to the Midwest and South; to offer payment assistance versus not offer payment assistance; and to be private, for-profit facilities versus public or non-profit facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

This study's findings identify the need for more facilities with syndemic-informed and SGM-tailored treatment, particularly in the Midwestern and Southern U.S. regions. Facilities offering syndemic-informed and SGM-tailored treatment might present accessibility barriers for low-income SGM people, as they were more likely to be private, for-profit facilities; however, they were more likely to offer payment assistance.

Seasonal Flight Patterns of Chrysodeixis includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Florida Panhandle and Inventory of Plusiine Species Cross-Attracted to Synthetic Pheromone

Chysodeixis includens (Walker) is a polyphagous economic pest in agricultural landscapes. To detect the occurrence of this pest in the field, trapping using sex pheromone lures is often implemented. However, other plusiine species are cross-attracted to these lures and may be misidentified as C. includens due to their morphological similarities. The objectives of this study were to provide region-specific information on the abundance of C. includens throughout the year as well as document the occurrence of related plusiines cross-attracted to C. includens sex pheromone traps in the Florida Panhandle. Twelve commercial fields of peanut and twelve commercial fields of cotton located across Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Jackson counties were monitored with Trécé delta traps baited with C. includens sex pheromone lures (Alpha Scents, Inc.; West Linn, OR) from June 2017 to June 2019. There was no difference in C. includens flight across dryland or irrigated fields. Identifications revealed that in addition to C. includens, the following species of the subfamily Plusiinae were crossed-attracted: Argyrogramma verruca (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Trichoplusia ni (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Ctenoplusia oxygramma (Geyer) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), and Rachiplusia ou (Guenée) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The occurrence of each species in the region and their flight phenology are documented. Chysodeixis includens abundance was greatest in September and decreased through December. Due to the high abundance of C. oxygramma and similar flight phenology to C. includens, this is the likeliest species to skew estimations and influence management decisions of C. includens, especially early in the crop season, when C. includens abundance is low.

Icebergs as unique Lagrangian ecosystems in polar seas

Global warming and its disproportionate impact on polar regions have led to increased iceberg populations. Southern Ocean studies in the northwest Weddell Sea have verified substantial delivery of terrestrial material accompanied by increased primary production and faunal abundance associated with free-drifting icebergs. It is hypothesized that input and utilization of macro- and micronutrients are promoted by conditions unique to free-drifting icebergs, leading to increased production, grazing, and export of organic carbon. In Arctic regions, increased freshwater input from meltwater acts to stratify and stabilize the upper water column. As has been observed in the Southern Ocean, Arctic-region icebergs should drive turbulent upwelling and reduce stratification, potentially leading to increased nitrate delivery to the local ecosystem. Increasing populations of icebergs in polar regions can potentially be important in mediating the drawdown and sequestration of CO(2) and can thus impact the oceanic carbon cycle.

Small threat and contraband detection with TNA-based systems

The detection of small threats, such as explosives, drugs, and chemical weapons, concealed or encased in surrounding material, is a major concern in areas from security checkpoints to UneXploded Ordnance (UXO) clearance. Techniques such as X-ray and trace detection are often ineffectual in these applications. Thermal neutron analysis (TNA) provides an effective method for detecting concealed threats. This paper shows the effectiveness of Ancore's SPEDS, based on TNA, in detecting concealed liquid threats and differentiating live from inert mortar shells.

Endobronchial ultrasound to assess airway wall thickening: validation in vitro and in vivo

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) allows identification of airway wall structures and could potentially be utilised for in vivo studies of airway thickening in asthma. The present study investigated whether inflation of the fluid-filled balloon sheath over the transducer (necessary to provide sonic coupling with the airway wall) influenced in vitro measurements. In vivo comparability of EBUS with high resolution computed tomography scanning (HRCT), an established method for measuring wall thickness, was determined in control subjects. The airway diameter and wall thickness were studied using EBUS in 24 cartilaginous airways obtained from four sheep, before and after balloon sheath inflation during immersion in saline. To assess EBUS versus HRCT comparability of airway measures in vivo, 12 control subjects underwent imaging of the posterior basal bronchus of the right lower lobe by both techniques. Intra- and interobserver agreement were also assessed. Results with and without the balloon sheath gave comparable measures of airway internal diameter and wall thickness in vitro. Statistical analysis showed agreement between EBUS and HRCT, and intra- and interobserver variability in vivo. The current study concludes that endobronchial ultrasound, which does not present a radiation risk, could be utilised in the in vivo study of cartilaginous airway wall remodelling in respiratory diseases, such as asthma.

Role of alpha-MSH in the regulation of consummatory behavior: immunohistochemical evidence

Central injection of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) decreases food intake, suggesting a role for this peptide in the mediation of satiety. Inasmuch as alpha-MSH also supports the development of taste aversions under certain conditions, the nature of its influence on ingestive behavior, i.e., whether it is related to satiety or aversion, remains unclear. In the present studies, we used immunostaining, including that for c-Fos as a marker of neuronal activation, to further substantiate the physiological role for alpha-MSH in the regulation of consummatory behavior. We found that an increase in activation of alpha-MSH neurons in the arcuate nucleus coincided with meal termination. Administration of powerful aversive agents, LiCl and CuSO(4), did not stimulate alpha-MSH cells but did induce pronounced activation of oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP) neurons, the final components of circuitry mediating aversion. We observed fewer Fos-positive OT/VP neurons after alpha-MSH injection into the lateral ventricle or into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, treatments that cause mild or no aversion, respectively. The degree of activation of OT/VP neurons paralleled the magnitude of aversive response to a given treatment. Our data support the hypothesis that, in the arcuate nucleus, alpha-MSH acts as a satiety mediator independent from aversion-related mechanisms.

Acute toxicity of five sediment-associated metals, individually and in a mixture, to the estuarine meiobenthic harpacticoid copepod Amphiascus tenuiremis

The acute effects of many individual, seawater-solubilized metals on meiobenthic copepods and nematodes are well known. In sediments, however, metals most often occur as mixtures, and it is not known whether such mixtures exhibit simple additive toxicity to meiobenthos. The estuarine meiobenthic copepod Amphiascus tenuiremis was tested in four acute (96-h) sediment bioassays to determine sediment and pore-water LC50s for single-metal exposures to copper (Cu), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn). Laboratory-cultured copepods were exposed to clean 98% silt:clay sediments spiked with metal chloride solutions to yield five exposure concentrations plus a control. Trimmed Spearman-Karber analysis gave sediment 96-h LC50 values of 4.4 mumole Cu/g, 5.7 mumole Ni/g, 11.9 mumole Pb/g, 10.3 mumole Zn/g, and pore-water 96-h LC50 values of 2 mumole/l, 11.7 mumole/l, and 5.7 mumole/l for Cu, Ni, and Zn, respectively. Male survival after exposure to Cu, Pb, and Ni was significantly less than female survival (alpha = 0.05). Toxicity of a combined USEPA priority metal mixture to A. tenuiremis was assessed using sediment spiked equitoxically with Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn. The sum toxic unit that produced a median lethal dose was 0.72. The mixture had a significantly greater than additive effect on A. tenuiremis survival, with the mixture being 1.4x more toxic than that expected by simple additivity.

Nocistatin inhibits food intake in rats

Nocistatin, a product of the same precursor as nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), has been shown to antagonize effects of N/OFQ. N/OFQ stimulates feeding, most probably by inhibiting activation of neurons containing oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP), peptides considered as satiety factors, and implicated in the development of conditioned taste aversion (CTA). The present study was designed to investigate whether intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected nocistatin (a) affects deprivation- and N/OFQ-induced feeding, (b) causes CTA, and (c) induces activation of hypothalamic paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic (SON) nuclei, as well as OT and VP neurons present in these regions. C-Fos immunohistochemistry was used as a marker of cellular activation. Nocistatin (1-3 nmol) significantly reduced food intake in deprived rats during the first and second hour post-injection. Doses of 1-3 nmol suppressed N/OFQ-induced feeding. Nocistatin at the highest (3 nmol) dose did not cause CTA. It also did not affect activation of the PVN or SON. In nocistatin-treated animals, the percentage of Fos-positive OT and VP neurons was similar to controls. We conclude that nocistatin antagonizes the influence of N/OFQ on feeding and suppresses deprivation-induced food consumption through mechanisms other than aversion. Nocistatin does not, however, activate the PVN or SON. It does not exert its effects via VP or OT neurons.

Expression of glucosamine trisaccharides on the rat uterine surface is altered by clomiphene citrate

We have studied histochemically the effects of clomiphene citrate on the expression of oligosacchrides on the apical plasma membrane of uterine epithelial cells using the lectin Phytolacca americana. Ovariectomized sexually mature rats were given a single injection of either clomiphene in two concentrations or estradiol 17 beta or progesterone and were killed 24 hr later. Uterine tissue was labeled with Phytolacca americana conjugated with avidin and subsequently labeled with biotinalyted ferritin and prepared for transmission electron microscopy. Our results indicate that clomiphene and to a lesser degree progesterone significantly increased lectin binding. However, the increase was not as large as that observed with a single dose of estrodiol 17 beta. When the proportion of lectin positivity in relation to total membrane length was analyzed, treatment with clomiphene and progesterone did not have significantly different effects. Low dose clomiphene did not have a significant effect as compared with controls. Our data show that clomiphene has a dose-dependent adverse effect on lectin binding as compared with ovarian hormones. We suggest that these effects contribute to low pregnancy rates with clomiphene use.

Junctional plaque proteins shift to the apical surface of uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy in the rat

Antibodies against the cytoplasmic plaque molecules, plectin and plakoglobin, and cytokeratin, the molecular component of intermediate filaments (IFs), were used to examine the distribution of these molecules in rat uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy including the period of blastocyst implantation. On day 1 of pregnancy plectin was detected in concentrated bands along the apical and basal plasma membranes, and diffusely throughout the cytoplasm. Plakoglobin was found along the entire lateral plasma membrane on day 1. By day 6, the time of blastocyst implantation, plectin was localised along the apical and basal membranes and reduced in the basal cytoplasm, and plakoglobin was seen exclusively at the apical-most quarter of the lateral plasma membrane. Cytokeratin was detected throughout the cytoplasm on day 1, but by day 6, was localised to the apical region of the cytoplasm only. These results show a redistribution of plectin, plakoglobin and cytokeratin away from the basal region of the uterine epithelial cells. The change in distribution of these molecules may contribute to the adhesion of the blastocyst to the apical and lateral surfaces of uterine epithelial cells and the subsequent detachment of the uterine epithelium from the basal lamina.

Alterations in distribution of actin binding proteins in uterine stromal cells during decidualization in the rat

Immunohistochemistry was used to investigate the involvement of the actin-associated binding proteins, tropomyosin, alpha-actinin and gelsolin with the formation of the decidual cell reaction during early pregnancy in the rat. Tropomyosin was present in the uterine myometrium, but absent from the both decidual and non-decidual stromal cells. alpha-Actinin was absent from non-decidual stromal cells, but present in decidual cells. Gelsolin was present in non-decidual cells close to the uterine stroma as well as in transformed decidual cells. Both gelsolin and alpha-actinin were concentrated around the periphery of the cell. It is proposed that these actin-binding proteins may be involved with the cellular transformations associated with decidualization.

Perceived sources of occupational stress in general dental practitioners

AIM

To evaluate levels of occupational stress in general dental practitioners (GDPs) and compare them with those reported by Cooper et al. (1987).

DESIGN/SETTING

Postal questionnaire in England and Wales.

SUBJECTS

A sample of 1007 GDPs was chosen from the Dental Register.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

30 separate stressors were scored on a 5-point scale. Summated scores within time-, job-, income-, staff- and patient-related categories were submitted to analysis of variance by sex, type of practice, years since qualification and geographic location.

RESULTS

823 questionnaires were returned (82%) of which 667 were from practising GDPs (63% male, 26% female, 1% undetermined) working full- (87%) or part- (13%) time in NHS (61%), private (8%), mixed (26%), or community (5%) practice. In general, problems associated with time management were the most stressful. The highest ranked individual stressors were 'running behind schedule' (percentage responding with scores 4 or 5 = 61.9, 95% confidence intervals = 58.2-65.6), followed by 'coping with difficult or uncooperative patients' (58.2, 54.5-61.9) and the 'working constraints set by the NHS' (57.5, 53.8-61.2). Differences in levels of reported stress (P < 0.05) were observed for at least one group category of stressor between practitioners with different types of practice, between males and females, by geographical area (north against south) and by the length of time since qualification.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that GDPs now rank factors related to time management as major job stressors, with an apparently dramatic elevation of 'NHS working constraints' to a top-ranking stressor since 1986.

Pan-cadherin concentrates apically in uterine epithelial cells during uterine closure in the rat

The ubiquitous cadherin probe, pan-cadherin was used to study changes in the distribution of cadherins in the plasma membrane of rat uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy when the uterine lumen closes down. A major reorganisation of cadherin expression was observed to occur in uterine epithelial cells between days 1 and 6 of pregnancy with a clear shift in molecular distribution from a basal location on day 1 to a distinctly and almost exclusively apical distribution by day 6 of pregnancy when the blastocyst is attached. We suggest these results indicate participation of this molecule in closure of the uterine lumen, a phenomenon well-known to occur in the rat uterus during early pregnancy and in which apical surfaces of opposing uterine epithelial cells cohere.

Leucocyte binding to the uterine epithelial cell surface during lectin-induced decidualization

Intra-uterine injection of the lectin Concanavalin A (ConA) on day 5 of pseudopregnancy induced a rapid and persistent infiltration of leucocytes into the rat uterine stroma. Although the infiltration of leucocytes was seen along the entire length of the uterine horn, areas of stromal oedema, indicative of decidualization (as indicated by a positive Pontamine Sky Blue reaction), were only associated with regions in which leucocytes had crossed the uterine epithelium and were present in the uterine lumen. Ultrastructural evaluation of the interaction of the luminal leucocytes with the apical surface of the uterine epithelium appeared strikingly similar to that of the blastocyst and the uterine epithelium during normal implantation. It is proposed that leucocytes, induced by ConA, may initiate a decidual response in a manner analogous to that of the blastocyst through surface epithelial interaction.

Actin-binding proteins undergo major alterations during the plasma membrane transformation in uterine epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

The apical surface of uterine epithelial cells undergoes a dramatic transformation during early pregnancy. Previous studies have shown that cytoskeletal actin microfilaments are associated with this transformation, but little is known of the role played by actin-binding proteins or which of the many described in other cell types are present in uterine epithelial cells.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical staining using monoclonal antibodies raised against four different actin-binding proteins (alpha-actinin, tropomyosin, gelsolin, and vinculin) was used to study the changing distribution of these proteins in uterine epithelium during early pregnancy in the rat.

RESULTS

Findings indicated the presence of all four of the actin-binding proteins in the uterine epithelium. The distribution of tropomyosin remained unchanged over the period of early pregnancy. Gelsolin and alpha-actinin displayed similarity in distribution. Day 1 showed an apicobasal localisation of reaction product, which by day 6 of pregnancy had concentrated into a thick band across the luminal surface of the cells. Vinculin staining was a diffuse band at the level of the basal plasma membrane at day 1 and became a diffuse faint band across the apical part of the cells on day 6.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the presence of actin-binding proteins in uterine epithelial cells, and these findings are discussed in light of known ultrastructural alterations in the uterine epithelium during early pregnancy. Elucidation of the role of the actin-based cytoskeleton in the uterine epithelium may further our understanding of the dynamics of this unique environment that allows the implantation of a blastocyst.

Leucocyte involvement in lectin-induced deciduomata formation

Intra-uterine injection of the lectin Concanavalin A (ConA) on day 5 of PSP induced a rapid and persistent infiltration of leucocytes into the rat uterine stroma. Although the infiltration of leucocytes was witnessed along the entire length of the uterine horn, areas of stromal oedema, indicative of decidualisation (as indicated by the positive Pontamine Sky Blue reaction), were only associated with regions in which the movement of leucocytes across the uterine epithelium was evident. Epithelial disruption and trauma was frequently noted within these regions. We believe that ConA may initiate decidualisation through indirectly causing epithelial trauma.

Increased lectin binding capacity of trophoblastic cells of late day 5 rat blastocysts

The binding of lectins to the trophoblast of rat blastocysts has been studied using quantitative ultrastructural cytochemistry. Rat blastocysts from early, mid and late d 5 of gestation were stained using biotinylated lectins (Phytolacca americana [Phy am], fucose binding protein [FBP] and soybean agglutinin [SBA]) and a sensitive avidin-ferritin cytochemical method. Electron micrographs of ferritin particles along the membrane were processed to produce images for which grey scale levels could be established and the ferritin particles automatically counted. The ferritin:membrane ratio was then calculated. Increased binding with Phy am (which detects short chain oligosaccharides) was found after midday of d 5, i.e. after hatching. Binding of FBP and SBA did not alter during the period studied. The increased concentration of oligosaccharides on the blastocyst surface membrane after hatching may have important implications for blastocyst attachment to the endometrium.

Plasma membrane transformation: a common response of uterine epithelial cells during the peri-implantation period

The plasma membrane of uterine epithelial cells and its changes during early pregnancy are reviewed. The review first examines morphological alterations in rats and mice and laboratory rodents and finds that similar changes in membrane organization accompany the peri-implantation period: long, thin, regular microvilli are gradually converted into irregular, flattened projections. It is also found however, that in many other species related plasma membrane alterations are seen during early pregnancy. Molecular alterations in the membrane are also examined and although the evidence is so far limited, striking similarities are noted across species. The review also examines some new morphological studies on the alterations in the plasma membrane of uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy and concludes that a process of plasma membrane transformation may be a common response across species.

Lectin-induced deciduoma formation in the pseudopregnant rat

Decidual cell induction in the pseudopregnant rat was examined in this study using the lectin concanavalin A (ConA). The histochemical binding of the lectin to the uterine cell surface at the time of deciduomatic induction was also studied. ConA was found to induce significant deciduomata (decidual-like tissue) in the uterine horn when injected intraluminally on day 5 of pseudopregnancy (PSP). ConA-induced deciduomata appeared as a series of discrete nodules in the uterine horn, reminiscent of the anatomical appearance of normal embryo implantation sites. Deciduoma induction by ConA was greatly reduced by pre-absorption of the lectin with its competitive sugar. Lectin histochemistry revealed binding of ConA to the cell surface on day 5 of PSP. Pre-absorption of the lectin with its competitive sugar also significantly reduced surface binding of the lectin, and this finding may be correlated with the greatly reduced ability of the pre-absorbed lectin to induce deciduomata. Possible mechanisms for the induction of deciduomata by lectins are considered.

Colonoscopically assisted intracorporeal laparoscopic wedge resection of a benign right colon lesion

We present a case of colonoscopically assisted intracorporeal laparoscopic wedge resection of a benign right colon lesion. The operative technique is described and the rationale discussed with reference to current literature.

Surgical and prosthetic restoration of binaural hearing in an 88-year-old man

We report the restoration of binaural hearing in an 88-year-old man who was experiencing significant communication difficulties. His preoperative air conduction thresholds had revealed a pure-tone average of 55 dB for the left ear and 107 dB for the right, and he was dissatisfied with the benefits provided by his BICROS hearing aid arrangement that had been fitted to his left ear. The combined effects of surgery and a hearing aid offered a 70 to 80 dB improvement for his right ear and restored the communication advantages of binaural hearing.

(+)-Iforrestine: a Novel Heterocyclic Nephrotoxin From Isotropis forrestii

A compound that reproduces the acute renal proximal tubular necrosis associated with ingestion of Isotropis forrestii, by animals, has been isolated from the plant. The novel heterocyclic structure was determined by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction study. The spectroscopic data are presented and rationalized with respect to the assigned structure.

Chromaffin cell heterogeneity of process formation and neuropeptide content under control and nerve growth factor-altered conditions in cultures of chick embryonic adrenal gland

Adrenal glands from embryonic day 11 (E-11) chicks were cryostat-sectioned, and it was determined that tyrosine hydroxylase-like immunoreactive (TLI) cells, somatostatin-like immunoreactive (SLI) cells, and methionine-enkephalin-like immunoreactive (ELI) cells occupied chromaffin regions of the gland. Similar age adrenals were dissociated, and the cells were cultured under serum-free conditions. Cultured TLI cells, ELI cells, and SLI cells were characterized according to cell size, cell number, and neurite formation. ELI and SLI cells composed two largely separate populations, with SLI cells tending to have larger cell areas, to be more numerous, and to be less likely to form neurites than ELI cells. The population of TLI cells, although unique in itself, was diverse and numerous enough to include all or portions of the neuropeptide-immunoreactive populations. Neurites of some cells from each of the above populations were strongly immunoreactive for alpha neurofilament protein, and for NAPA73 neurofilament-associated protein. However, neurites could also be observed in all populations that showed poor immunoreactivity for these cytoskeletal proteins. Exogenously added NGF significantly increased neurite-like process formation among TLI and ELI cells, but not among SLI cells. Reductions in the number of neurite-like processes following treatment with anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) were not significant for any of the populations. However, if shorter and broader process were included, anti-NGF caused a significant reduction in total cell processes among TLI and ELI cells. Anti-NGF inhibition of process formation among ELI cells could be reversed with exogenous NGF. Neither NGF or anti-NGF treatments showed a significant effect on cell numbers among TLI and ELI populations. The implications are that a compound of antigenic and physiological similarity to mouse salivary NGF is made by embryonic chick adrenal cells in culture, but the effects of NGF do not appear to be the same for all neural-crest-derived cells from the adrenal, and greater heterogeneity of phenotypes may exist among chromaffin cells than has previously been accepted. Some questions are also raised concerning the neurite-like nature of processes formed by some chromaffin cells in vitro.

Recurrent re-expansion pulmonary edema

A unique patient is described who experienced two episodes of pulmonary edema following re-expansion of two left pneumothoraces occurring months apart. Successful surgical treatment was carried out at thoracotomy. Factors regarding pathogenesis are discussed.

Laminar flow enclosure-a possible risk to the patient

A retrospective comparison was made between two groups of 50 adult patients who underwent open-heart surgery in an operating suite with two adjacent rooms, one of which was equipped with a laminar flow enclosure. Core and body surface temperatures were measured at 15-min intervals for the 1st h after commencement of surgery. Patients in a laminar flow enclosure showed a significantly greater decrease in core temperature with time. Possible means of counteracting this are suggested.

The Swan-Ganz pulmonary artery catheter. Incidence of complications, with particular reference to ventricular dysrhythmias, and their prevention

A series of seventy-three adult patients undergoing open-heart surgery was studied, in whom a Swan-Ganz pulmonary artery catheter was inserted. The incidence of complications occurring during insertion and use of the catheter was noted, and a controlled trial carried out to determine the efficacy of lignocaine 1 mg/kg iv in preventing ventricular dysrhythmias during passage of the catheter. A significant decrease in dysrhythmia rate was observed. Ways of minimising or preventing other complications are discussed.