Sleep Disturbances Can Be Prospectively Observed in Patients with an Inactive Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract

Background

Poor sleep quality is associated with adverse health consequences. Sleep disturbances can impact the immune function and inflammatory processes. Little is known about sleep disturbances in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), while not in flare, i.e., inactive.

Aims

To prospectively explore the sleep quality of patients with an inactive IBD.

Methods

This pilot study included 36 consecutive patients with IBD and 27 healthy volunteers. All IBD patients had an inactive disease. Participants underwent an overnight ambulatory polysomnography. Data on disease duration, medications, complications, and treatment were collected from the medical records.

Results

The mean age of the IBD and the control groups was 39 ± 15 and 34.6 ± 9.6 years. A significantly less rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was noted in the IBD group vs. control (23.7 vs. 27.8%, p = 0.047); light sleep percentage and REM latency were also longer in the IBD group. Moreover, oxygen desaturation below 90% was more common in the IBD group. All other sleep parameters including respiratory disturbance index, apnea–hypopnea index, number of wakes, sleep latency, and snoring strength were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Inactive IBD is associated with sleep disturbances. A larger prospective study should be conducted to confirm these findings.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uBlkC0
via IFTTT

Both Full Glasgow-Blatchford Score and Modified Glasgow-Blatchford Score Predict the Need for Intervention and Mortality in Patients with Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

Background

Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) has been developed for risk stratification in management of acute upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. However, the performance of GBS in patients with lower GI bleeding is unknown.

Aim

To evaluate the performance of full or modified GBS and modified GBS in prediction of major clinical outcomes in patients with lower GI bleeding.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients admitted to a tertiary care center with either non-variceal upper GI bleeding or lower GI bleeding was conducted. The full and modified GBS were calculated for all patients. The primary outcome was a combined outcome of inpatient mortality, need for endoscopic, surgical, or radiologic procedure to control the bleed or treat the underlying source, and need for blood transfusion.

Results

A total of 1026 patients (562 cases for upper GI and 464 cases for lower GI) were included in the study. Hospital-based interventions and mortality were significantly higher in upper GI bleeding group. The performance of the full GBS in lower GI bleeding (area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) 0.78, 95% CI 0.74–0.82) was comparable to full GBS in upper GI bleeding (AUROC 0.77, 95% CI 0.73–0.81) in predicting the primary outcome. Similarly, the performance of modified GBS in lower GI bleeding was shown to be comparable to modified GBS in upper GI bleeding (AUROC 0.78, 95% CI 0.74–0.83 vs. AUROC 0.76 95% CI 0.72–0.80).

Conclusion

In patients with lower GI bleeding, both full GBS and modified GBS can predict the need for hospital-based interventions and mortality.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uMfRrf
via IFTTT

Depressive Symptoms Predict Anti-tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy Noncompliance and Healthcare Utilization in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NZPSFG
via IFTTT

The Use of Higher Dose Steroids Increases the Risk of Rebleeding After Endoscopic Hemostasis for Peptic Ulcer Bleeding

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown that several factors such as hemodynamic instability at admission are risk factors for rebleeding of peptic ulcer bleeding. However, whether steroid use increases the risk of rebleeding remains elusive.

Aims

This study aimed to clarify the risk factors for rebleeding after endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer bleeding.

Methods

A total of 185 patients who underwent endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer bleeding at our institution between 2005 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. We evaluated factors, including comorbid conditions, in-hospital onset, and steroid use, associated with rebleeding by logistic regression analysis. In addition, we investigated the association between the dose of steroids and rebleeding.

Results

The rebleeding rate after endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer bleeding was 14.6%. In the multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors for rebleeding were steroid use (odds ratio 4.56, p = 0.015), multiple ulcers (4.43, p = 0.005), number of comorbidities ≥ 3 3.18, p = 0.026), hemodynamic instability (3.06, p = 0.039), and number of comorbidities ≥ 3 (2.93, p = 0.047). Furthermore, the use of higher dose steroids (≥ 20 mg per day in prednisolone; 10.55, p = 0.002), but not lower dose (< 20 mg per day in prednisolone), was an independent risk factor for rebleeding in the multivariate analysis. The relationship between steroid use and rebleeding was observed in a dose-dependent manner (p for trend = 0.002).

Conclusions

This study first revealed that using higher dose steroids was an independent risk factor for rebleeding after endoscopic hemostasis for peptic ulcer bleeding, with a dose-response relation.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LnVpay
via IFTTT

Electrophysiological Monitoring During Percutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Ganglion Block

No abstract available

from Anaesthesiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uxBLPX
via IFTTT

Identification of the Novel Nup188-brr7 Allele in a Screen for Cold-Sensitive mRNA Export Mutants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The maturation and export of mRNA from the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex is critical for maintaining an appropriate proteome in all eukaryotic cells. Here we summarize a previously unpublished screen in S. cerevisiae that utilized an established dT50 in situ hybridization assay to identify cold-sensitive mutants that accumulated bulk poly A RNA in the nucleus. The screen identified seven mutants in six complementation groups, including the brr6-1 strain that we described previously. In addition to brr6-1, we identified novel alleles of the key transport gene GLE1 and NUP188, a component of the Nic96 nucleoporin complex. Notably, we show that the nup188-brr7 allele causes defects in select protein import pathways as well as mRNA export. Given recent structural and functional evidence linking the Nic96 complex to transport components, this mutant may be particularly useful to the transport community.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LwqcPw
via IFTTT

Event Analysis: Using Transcript Events To Improve Estimates of Abundance in RNA-seq Data

Alternative splicing leverages genomic content by allowing the synthesis of multiple transcripts and, by implication, protein isoforms, from a single gene. However, estimating the abundance of transcripts produced in a given tissue from short sequencing reads is difficult and can result in both the construction of transcripts that do not exist, and the failure to identify true transcripts. An alternative approach is to catalog the events that make up isoforms (splice junctions and exons). We present here the Event Analysis (EA) approach, where we project transcripts onto the genome and identify overlapping/unique regions and junctions. In addition, all possible logical junctions are assembled into a catalog. Transcripts are filtered before quantitation based on simple measures: the proportion of the events detected, and the coverage. We find that mapping to a junction catalog is more efficient at detecting novel junctions than mapping in a splice aware manner. We identify 99.8% of true transcripts while iReckon identifies 82% of the true transcripts and creates more transcripts not included in the simulation than were initially used in the simulation. Using PacBio Iso-seq data from a mouse neural progenitor cell model, EA detects 60% of the novel junctions that are combinations of existing exons while only 43% are detected by STAR. EA further detects ~5,000 annotated junctions missed by STAR. Filtering transcripts based on the proportion of the transcript detected and the number of reads on average supporting that transcript captures 95% of the PacBio transcriptome. Filtering the reference transcriptome before quantitation, results in is a more stable estimate of isoform abundance, with improved correlation between replicates. This was particularly evident when EA is applied to an RNA-seq study of type 1 diabetes (T1D), where the coefficient of variation among subjects (n = 81) in the transcript abundance estimates was substantially reduced compared to the estimation using the full reference. EA focuses on individual transcriptional events. These events can be quantitate and analyzed directly or used to identify the probable set of expressed transcripts. Simple rules based on detected events and coverage used in filtering result in a dramatic improvement in isoform estimation without the use of ancillary data (e.g. ChIP, long reads) that may not be available for many studies.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2L4SZyd
via IFTTT

A Bayesian Decision Theory Approach for Genomic Selection

Plant and animal breeders are interested in selecting the best individuals from a candidate set for the next breeding cycle. In this paper, we propose a formal method under the Bayesian decision theory framework to tackle the selection problem based on genomic selection (GS) in single- and multi-trait settings. We proposed and tested three univariate loss functions (Kullback-Leibler, KL; Continuous Ranked Probability Score, CRPS; Linear-Linear loss, LinLin) and their corresponding multivariate generalizations (Kullback-Leibler, KL; Energy Score, EnergyS; and the Multivariate Asymmetric Loss Function, MALF). We derived and expressed all the loss functions in terms of heritability and tested them on a real wheat dataset for one cycle of selection and in a simulated selection program. The performance of each univariate loss function was compared with the standard method of selection (Std) that does not use loss functions. We compared the performance in terms of the selection response and the decrease in the population's genetic variance during recurrent breeding cycles. Results suggest that it is possible to obtain better performance in a long-term breeding program using the single-trait scheme by selecting 30% of the best individuals in each cycle but not by selecting 10% of the best individuals. For the multi-trait approach, results show that the population mean for all traits under consideration had positive gains, even though two of the traits were negatively correlated. The corresponding population variances were not statistically different from the different loss function during the 10-th selection cycle. Using the loss function should be a useful criterion when selecting the candidates for selection for the next breeding cycle.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2JAvO9H
via IFTTT

A real-world, long-term experience on effectiveness and safety of vedolizumab in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease: The Cross Pennine study

Real-life data on vedolizumab effectiveness in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are still emerging. Data on the comparative safety of the gut selective profile are of particular interest.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LouefK
via IFTTT

A real-world, long-term experience on effectiveness and safety of vedolizumab in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease: The Cross Pennine study

Real-life data on vedolizumab effectiveness in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are still emerging. Data on the comparative safety of the gut selective profile are of particular interest.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LouefK
via IFTTT

The Effects of a Motorized Aquatic Treadmill Exercise Program on Muscle Strength, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Clinical Function in Subacute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Objective The aim of this study was to assess whether the effects of a motorized aquatic treadmill exercise program improve the isometric strength of the knee muscles, cardiorespiratory fitness, arterial stiffness, motor function, balance, functional outcomes, and quality of life in subacute stroke patients. Design Thirty-two patients were randomly assigned to 4-wk training sessions of either aquatic therapy (n = 19) or land-based aerobic exercise (n = 18). Isometric strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Cardiopulmonary fitness was evaluated using a symptom-limited exercise tolerance test and by measuring brachial ankle pulse wave velocity. Moreover, motor function (Fugl-Meyer Assessment [FMA] and FMA-lower limb [FMA-LL]), balance (Berg Balance Scale [BBS]), Activities of daily living (Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index [K-MBI]), and quality of life (EQ-5D index) were examined. Results There were no intergroup differences between demographic and clinical characteristics at baseline (P > 0.05). The results shows significant improvements in peak oxygen consumption (P = 0.02), maximal isometric strength of the bilateral knee extensors (P

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zT5iZu
via IFTTT

Neural Decoding of Robot-Assisted Gait During Rehabilitation After Stroke

Objective Advancements in robot-assisted gait rehabilitation and brain-machine interfaces may enhance stroke physiotherapy by engaging patients while providing information about robot-induced cortical adaptations. We investigate the feasibility of decoding walking from brain activity in stroke survivors during therapy using a powered exoskeleton integrated with an electroencephalography-based brain-machine interface. Design The H2 powered exoskeleton was designed for overground gait training with actuated hip, knee, and ankle joints. It was integrated with active-electrode electroencephalography and evaluated in hemiparetic stroke survivors for 12 sessions per 4 wks. A continuous-time Kalman decoder operating on delta-band electroencephalography was designed to estimate gait kinematics. Results Five chronic stroke patients completed the study with improvements in walking distance and speed training for 4 wks, correlating with increased offline decoding accuracy. Accuracies of predicted joint angles improved with session and gait speed, suggesting an improved neural representation for gait, and the feasibility to design an electroencephalography-based brain-machine interface to monitor brain activity or control a rehabilitative exoskeleton. Conclusions The Kalman decoder showed increased accuracies as the longitudinal training intervention progressed in the stroke participants. These results demonstrate the feasibility of studying changes in patterns of neuroelectric cortical activity during poststroke rehabilitation and represent the first step in developing a brain-machine interface for controlling powered exoskeletons.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mt2Pey
via IFTTT

Preserving the Shoulder Function of an Elite Paratriathlete

Shoulder pain in wheelchair users that participate in competitive adaptive sports can be a troublesome condition. Shoulder pain not only affects athletic performance but also affects functional activities such as wheelchair propulsion and weight bearing during transfers. Managing pain in these athletes thus presents a unique challenge because of the difficulty in achieving relative rest and the need to modify athletic shoulder-focused rehabilitation strategies. In all athletes, it is vital to establish an early, accurate diagnosis and optimize conservative treatment before considering surgical interventions to avoid excessive shoulder-related morbidity, loss of function, and, worse, loss of independence.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zTwSFW
via IFTTT

Increased Single-Fiber Jitter Level Is Associated With Reduction in Motor Function With Aging

Objective Age-associated skeletal muscle weakness is a major contributing factor to an increased late life mortality and morbidity, but its neurobiology is poorly understood. Previously, we provided histological evidence of dying-back axonal degeneration of motor neurons and denervation of neuromuscular junctions in age-associated muscle weakness. Given this, we aimed to evaluate the relation between impaired neuromuscular transmission and various aspects of age-associated muscle weakness. Design We compared two electrophysiological measures, single-fiber jitter and compound motor action potential in mice of different age groups, and correlated them with various physical performance measures, such as grip strength, standing and walking time, and treadmill performance. Results Consistent with our previous histological data, single-fiber jitter, a measure of neuromuscular junction transmission, was significantly increased in older animals, whereas compound motor action potential shows no difference between young and old age groups. Neither jitter nor compound motor action potential correlated with any of physical performance measures, except for jitter and standing activity. Conclusions Impaired neuromuscular transmission—represented as increase in single-fiber electromyography jitter level—reflects decline in motor function with aging.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mpES7Q
via IFTTT

Inpatient Care for the Cancer Survivor: Opportunities to Develop and Deliver Standards for Care

Cancer continues to evolve from a terminal diagnosis to a chronic medical condition. With improved survivorship rates, opportunities exist to deliver rehabilitation care throughout the oncology continuum. By definition, inpatient rehabilitation is generally considered postacute care and is provided either in inpatient rehabilitation facilities, in skilled nursing facilities, or in long-term care hospitals. Each institution is subject to specific regulations and legislation that help define appropriateness for admission based on diagnosis, medical necessity, and functional need. However, these criteria may present barriers to access care for the oncology survivor. As the healthcare landscape changes, and reimbursement structures shift from fee-for-service to those that emphasize effectiveness and efficiency in care, inpatient rehabilitation has a unique opportunity to improve value in terms of outcomes and cost. With the implementation of the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act, standardization of measures throughout postacute care may allow for a more consistent approach to delivery of inpatient rehabilitation care. Further work will be necessary to define the parameters by which oncology survivors should be gauged in this framework.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uLU8Qb
via IFTTT

Association Between Spasticity and Functional Impairments During the First Year After Stroke in Korea: The KOSCO Study

Objective The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between spasticity severity and functional outcomes during the first year after stroke. Design The Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation is a large, multicenter, prospective cohort study of all patients with acute first-ever stroke admitted to participating hospitals in nine Korean areas. To investigate the correlation between spasticity severity and functional status measured by using the Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Functional Independence Measurement (FIM), Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), modified Rankin scale (mRS), and American Speech-Language Hearing Association National Outcome Measurement System Swallowing Scale (ASHA-NOMS), data were analyzed at 3, 6, and 12 mos after the occurrence of stroke. Results A total of 7359 stroke patients, 3056 were finally included. Prevalence rates of spasticity in patients after stroke were 6.8% at 3 mos, 6.9% at 6 mos, and 7.6% at 12 mos. The scores of mRS and NIHSS were higher and those of K-MBI, FIM, FMA, and ASHA-NOMS were lower in more severe spastic patients, indicating poorer functional outcomes (P

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mtHZfk
via IFTTT

Should We Be Concerned About “Acute Sarcopenia” in the Inpatient Population? Is There a Role for Ultrasound Evaluation?

No abstract available

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zT57gM
via IFTTT

Poststroke Depression: A Long-Term Problem for Stroke Survivors

Objective The aim of the study was to ascertain the prevalence of depressive mood and its determinants in the chronic phase after stroke. Design Five hundred seventy-six consecutive patients were invited to participate 2 to 5 yrs after hospitalization for a first-ever stroke. Stroke characteristics at hospitalization were collected retrospectively from medical records. Patients and their caregivers completed questionnaires on depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]), sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare usage, daily activities, quality of life, and caregiver strain. Patients with HADS depression scores of less than 8 were compared with patients with HADS depression scores of 8 or higher by means of univariate logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age, sex, and Barthel Index at discharge. Results Two hundred seven patients (36%) returned the questionnaires. After a mean follow-up of 36.3 mos, 67 patients (34%) had a HADS depression score of 8 or higher. Male sex and being born abroad were statistically significantly associated with a high HADS depression score, adjusted for age, sex, and stroke severity. Depressed patients had higher anxiety levels, a more avoidant coping style, less daily activities, and a lower quality of life; their caregivers experienced a higher burden. Conclusions In the chronic phase after stroke, a considerable proportion of patients has depressive symptoms. This seems to be related to sex, country of origin, anxiety, coping style, daily activities, quality of life, and caregivers' strain. Future research should focus on causal relationships and opportunities for treatment.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mqjfEv
via IFTTT

Association of Academic Physiatrists Federal Funding of Disability and Rehabilitation Research Position Statement

The Association of Academic Physiatrists seeks to advocate for policies that are supportive of academic rehabilitation, with elected officials, agency leaders, and other policy makers. Accordingly, the Association of Academic Physiatrists' Public Policy Committee identifies policy issues of importance to the organizational mission, conducts background research on those issues, and develops position statements that articulate the organization's position. These position statements require approval by the Board of Trustees and are used to support advocacy efforts by Association of Academic Physiatrists' members. Federal funding for disability and rehabilitation research is an important issue for the Association of Academic Physiatrists and its members. This position statement addresses the need for greater federal funding in this area, better coordination of the agencies providing funding, and an appropriate balance of merit-based funding with funding targeted to building capacity in critical rehabilitation-relevant methodology and content areas.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uLppTH
via IFTTT

Recovery in the Severely Impaired Arm Post-Stroke After Mirror Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Study

Objective This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of mirror therapy on recovery in the severely impaired arm after stroke. Design Using single-blind randomized controlled design, patients with severely impaired arm within 1-month post-stroke were assigned to receive mirror therapy (n = 20) or control therapy (n = 21), 30 mins twice daily for 4 wks in addition to conventional rehabilitation. During mirror therapy and control therapy, subjects practiced similar structured exercises in both arms, except that mirror reflection of the unaffected arm was the visual feedback for mirror therapy, but mirror was absent for control therapy so that subjects could watch both arms in exercise. Fugl-Meyer Assessment and Wolf Motor Function Test were the outcome measurements. Results After the intervention, both mirror therapy and control therapy groups had significant arm recovery similarly in Fugl-Meyer Assessment (P = 0.867), Wolf Motor Function Test-Time (P = 0.947) and Wolf Motor Function Test-Functional Ability Scale (P = 0.676). Conclusion Mirror therapy or control therapy, which involved exercises concurrently for the paretic and unaffected arms during subacute stroke, promoted similar motor recovery in the severely impaired arm.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mrl0RS
via IFTTT

Evidence-Based Physiatry: Learning to Choose Wisely

No abstract available

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uMATpV
via IFTTT

An Acute Bout of Aquatic Treadmill Exercise Induces Greater Improvements in Endothelial Function and Postexercise Hypotension Than Land Treadmill Exercise: A Crossover Study

Objective The purpose of the study was to compare acute bouts of aquatic treadmill (ATM) and land treadmill (LTM) exercise on flow-mediated dilation, postexercise blood pressure, plasma nitrate/nitrite, and atrial natriuretic peptide in untrained, prehypertensive men. Design In a counterbalanced, crossover design, 19 untrained, prehypertensive men completed bouts of ATM and LTM on separate days. Flow-mediated dilation was measured pre-exercise and 1-hr postexercise. Blood samples were obtained pre-exercise and immediately postexercise and analyzed for plasma nitrate/nitrite and atrial natriuretic peptide. A magnitude-based inference approach to inference was used for statistical analysis. Results A possible clinically beneficial increase in flow-mediated dilation (1.2%, 90% confidence interval = −0.07% to 2.5%) was observed 1 hr after ATM. In contrast, a possible clinically harmful decrease in flow-mediated dilation (−1.3%, 90% confidence interval = −2.7% to 0.2%) was observed 1 hr after LTM. The magnitude of the postexercise systolic blood pressure reduction was greater after ATM (−4.9, SD = 2.9 mm Hg) than LTM (−2.6, SD = 2.5 mm Hg). Atrial natriuretic peptide increased 34.3 (SD = 47.0%) after ATM and decreased −9.0 (SD = 40.0%) after LTM. Conclusions An acute bout of ATM induced a more favorable endothelial response and greater postexercise hypotensive response than LTM. These changes were associated with increased atrial natriuretic peptide levels after ATM.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mptSaO
via IFTTT

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Liberating Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine: A Reinforcement for “Runners,” a Reminder for “Walkers” and the Last Call for “Couch Potatoes”

No abstract available

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zT4V12
via IFTTT

Facilitating Weight Shifting During Treadmill Training Improves Walking Function in Humans With Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Objective The aim of the study was to determine whether the integration of dynamic weight shifting into treadmill training would improve the efficacy of treadmill training in humans with spinal cord injury. Design Sixteen humans with spinal cord injury were randomly assigned to receive robotic or treadmill-only training and underwent 6 wks of training. A force was applied to the pelvis for facilitating weight shifting and to the legs for assisting with leg swing for participants in the robotic group. No assistance force was applied for participants in the treadmill-only group. Outcome measures consisted of overground walking speed, 6-min walking distance, and other clinical measures and were assessed before, after 6 wks of training, and 8 wks after the end of training. Results A greater improvement in 6-min walking distance was observed after robotic training than that after treadmill-only training (P = 0.03), but there was not a significant difference between the two groups in improvements in walking speed. However, a greater improvement was observed for the participants who underwent robotic training than those who underwent treadmill-only training (i.e., 15% vs. 2%). Conclusions Applying a pelvis assistance force for facilitating weight shifting during treadmill training may improve locomotor function in humans with spinal cord injury.

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mqjf7t
via IFTTT

Abulia Due to Injury of the Prefrontocaudate Tract in a Stroke Patient

No abstract available

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zOB3Tj
via IFTTT

Validity Evidence for Direct Observation of Procedural Skills in Paediatric Gastroscopy

Objectives: Direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) are competence-assessment tools in endoscopy. Formative paediatric gastroscopy DOPS were implemented into the UK curriculum in 2016 but lack validity evidence; we aimed to assess validity evidence using a recognised contemporary validity framework. Methods: We performed a prospective UK-wide analysis of formative paediatric gastroscopy DOPS submitted to the e-Portfolio over one year. Internal structure validity was assessed using inter-item correlations between DOPS items, average domain and skillset scores and with the overall competency rating. Overall competence scores and mean DOPS scores were compared by trainee seniority and procedure count (discriminative validity). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was performed to explore if DOPS scores could be used to delineate procedural competency (consequential validity). Results: 157 DOPS assessments were completed by 20 trainers for 17 trainees. Strengths of correlations varied between DOPS components, with overall competency correlating most with technical-predominant items, domains and skillsets. Both the overall assessor's rating and mean DOPS scores increased with trainee seniority (P 

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2msOVt7
via IFTTT

Preparation of Powdered Infant Formula: Could Product's Safety be Improved?

The recent outbreak of Salmonella Agona linked to the consumption of infant formula (powdered formula) has rekindled the attention about the correct procedures for preparation and use of these products. International guidelines have already been published so far, particularly in association with Cronobacter sakazakii in early 2000's. FAO/WHO suggested to reconstitute formula with water at no less than 70°C. We therefore contaminated powdered formula with low levels of Salmonella spp. and C. sakazakii to evaluate the pathogens inactivation during the formula preparation using water at 70°C. In these conditions we observed a survival of both pathogens, indicating that the suggested recommendations may be not enough to guarantee the safety of this product. Higher temperatures are needed to reduce the biological risk, even if it may be not easily realized in actual domestic conditions. Moreover, the impact on the nutritional value of reconstituted formulas should be evaluated. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0 (CCBY), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. https://ift.tt/1eRPUFd Address correspondence and reprint requests to Marina-Nadia Losio, M.Sc., Department of Food Microbiology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna "B. Ubertini", Via A. Bianchi 9, Brescia, Italy (e-mail: marinanadia.losio@izsler.it). Received 9 April, 2018 Accepted 5 July, 2018 The authors report no conflicts of interest. © 2018 by European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology,

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uI1uo7
via IFTTT

Serum IgA Levels do not Correlate with Liver Disease Severity in Pediatric Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Serum IgA is a biomarker of liver disease severity in adult NAFLD. The objective of this study was to assess whether this is true in pediatric NAFLD. This was a retrospective study of children followed in the Steatohepatitis Center of a tertiary care center (2010–2017). Serum IgA levels, histology and biochemical markers of hepatocellular injury and metabolic dysregulation were collected. Of the 600 children with available serum IgA levels (mean age 14 ± 3 years, 62% male, 80% non-Hispanic), IgA was elevated in 4%. The group with elevated IgA levels was younger and had a greater representation of Hispanic ethnicity compared to those with normal or low IgA. BMI and aminotransferases were not different between the groups. Histology was available for 170 children and was not different in those with elevated, normal and low IgA. In contrast to adults, serum IgA is not a biomarker of liver disease severity in pediatric NAFLD. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Marialena Mouzaki, MD MSc, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229 (E-mail: Marialena.mouzaki@cchmc.org) Received 15 May, 2018 Accepted 8 June, 2018 Disclosures: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Financial support: This study was not funded. © 2018 by European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology,

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uFoLa6
via IFTTT

Sustained Viral Response in Genotype 4 Chronic HCV Infected Children and Adolescents Treated with Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir

Objectives: Recently, direct acting antivirals (DAAs), sofosbuvir (SOF) combined with ledipasvir (LED) were approved for treatment of HCV infected children 12 years of age and older or weighting at least 35 kg for all HCV genotypes. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of SOF/LED in genotype 4 HCV-infected Egyptian children and adolescents. Methods: This observational study included 40 consecutive HCV infected children aged 12 to 35 kg, both treatment-naive and treatment experienced. All were HBV negative and had normal renal functions and heart rate. Patients received oral fixed dose combination tablet of SOF/LED (400 mg SOF, 90 mg LED [Harvoni®]) once daily for 12 weeks. Potential side effects were recorded at weeks 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment. The study primary outcome was sustained virological response 12 weeks after end-of-treatment (SVR 12). Results: The study included 40 children and adolescents, 24 were males (60%); their ages ranged between 11.5 and 17.5 years (mean 13.9 ± 1.5). Baseline viral load ranged between 9630 and 24,600,000 IU/ml. HCV RNA became negative in 39 patients (97.5%) at 4 weeks and in all patients (100%) at weeks 8, 12 and SVR12. Asthenia was the commonest side effect, reported in 52.5% followed by headache in 47.5%. Conclusions: Treatment with all-oral DAAs (SOF/LED) for 12 weeks was well tolerated in Egyptian children and adolescents infected with genotype 4 HCV, with 100% SVR12 and negligible side effects. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Engy Adel Mogahed, MD, 2B Sama City, Katamya, Cairo, 11439, Egypt (E-mail: engy.mogahed@kasralainy.edu.eg) Received 1 May, 2018 Accepted 7 July, 2018 Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text, and links to the digital files are provided in the HTML text of this article on the journal's Web site (www.jpgn.org). Authors have nothing to declare. No conflict of interest. No funding source. © 2018 by European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology,

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2msOVcB
via IFTTT

Achieving High Quality Outcomes for ERCP: Can Pediatricians Match the Adults, and Should They Try?

No abstract available

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zScRzq
via IFTTT

In-Hospital Pediatric ERCP is Associated with Shorter Hospitalization for Children with Choledocholithiasis

Objectives: Children with choledocholithiasis are frequently managed at tertiary children's hospitals that do not have available endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) proceduralists. We hypothesized that patients treated at hospitals without ERCP proceduralists would have a longer hospital length of stay than those with ERCP proceduralists. Methods: Charts were reviewed for patients who underwent cholecystectomy and ERCP at three tertiary children's hospitals over ten years. Trauma and complicated pancreatitis patients were excluded. Comparisons between patients requiring and not requiring transfer for ERCP were made using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for continuous variables and Fisher's exact tests for categorical variables. Results: One hundred and sixty four children underwent ERCP for suspected choledocholithiasis: 79 (48%) in the transfer group and 85 (52%) in the no transfer group. Median length of stay was longer for patients requiring transfer (7 versus 5 days, p 

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mqXvbJ
via IFTTT

Braun Ambulances will attend Pinnacle 2018

VAN WERT, Ohio — Braun Ambulances will be attending this year's Pinnacle 2018 EMS Conference & Exhibition in Phoenix, Arizona. This will be the first time the ambulance manufacturer will attend the Pinnacle show. The event will take place at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort July 23rd-27th, 2018 and feature a variety of seminars, conferences, special meetings, bonus sessions, an...

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LhPTX0
via IFTTT

Predictive value of the pendulum test for assessing knee extensor spasticity

The pendulum test is commonly used to quantify knee extensor spasticity, but it is currently unknown to what extent common pendulum test metrics can detect spasticity in patients with neurological injury or di...

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uDVj5l
via IFTTT

Recovery of kinematic arm function in well-performing people with subacute stroke: a longitudinal cohort study

Most motor function improvements in people who have experienced strokes occur within the first 3 months. However, individuals showing complete or nearly complete arm function recovery, as assessed using clinic...

from Rehabilitation via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zR52df
via IFTTT

Why Braun Ambulances Conducts Side Impact & Rollover Crash Tests

Originally posted as a Live session on our Facebook page on July 21, 2017, this video takes our side impact and rollover crash tested ambulance for a test drive to prove how Braun strong our emergency vehicles really are.

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LnblKj
via IFTTT

Why Braun Ambulances Conducts Side Impact & Rollover Crash Tests

Originally posted as a Live session on our Facebook page on July 21, 2017, this video takes our side impact and rollover crash tested ambulance for a test drive to prove how Braun strong our emergency vehicles really are.

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LnblKj
via IFTTT

Why Braun Ambulances Conducts Side Impact & Rollover Crash Tests

Originally posted as a Live session on our Facebook page on July 21, 2017, this video takes our side impact and rollover crash tested ambulance for a test drive to prove how Braun strong our emergency vehicles really are.

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LnblKj
via IFTTT

Why Braun Ambulances Conducts Side Impact & Rollover Crash Tests

Originally posted as a Live session on our Facebook page on July 21, 2017, this video takes our side impact and rollover crash tested ambulance for a test drive to prove how Braun strong our emergency vehicles really are.

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LnblKj
via IFTTT

Experimental Study of Build Orientation in Direct Metal Laser Sintering of 17-4PH Stainless Steel

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, Ahead of Print.


from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LuleCK
via IFTTT

Speciation of actinides in groundwater samples collected near deep nuclear waste repositories

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): A.P. Novikov, I.E. Vlasova, A.V. Safonov, V.M. Ermolaev, E.V. Zakharova, St.N. Kalmykov

Abstract

Actinide binding to colloidal particles of different nature was studied under oxic and anoxic conditions of an underground nuclear waste disposal site using successive micro- and ultrafiltration techniques. According to the actinide redox speciation, under oxic conditions they were present in high oxidation states except for plutonium, for which a significant part was found in the tetravalent state. In case of the anoxic conditions, the share of An (IV) was proportional to the total U(IV) concentration. This indicated formation of intrinsic U(IV) hydroxocolloids, which bound other actinides. Formation of the intrinsic actinide colloids was proven by the secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) with the submicron resolution. In contrast, under the oxic conditions uranium and plutonium were sorbed by natural colloids (amorphous hydrous ferric oxide and Mn oxides).

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LujwBi
via IFTTT

A review of measurement methodologies and their applications to environmental 90Sr

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Yang Shao, Guosheng Yang, Hirofumi Tazoe, Lingling Ma, Masatoshi Yamada, Diandou Xu

Abstract

The high fission yield product ⁹⁰Sr has been released into the environment in large amounts due to nuclear weapon tests, nuclear power plant accidents, and nuclear fuel reprocessing industries. It is a long half-life radionuclide (28.9 y), with serious consequences to human health; hence, it is desirable to perform routine monitoring of ⁹⁰Sr in environmental samples. Many ⁹⁰Sr radiometric methods have been developed in the past decades, which generally require complicated separation and purification steps with a relatively long analytical time. Moreover, some nominally rapid methods usually have high method detection limits, making them unsuitable for the environmental samples with ultra-low ⁹⁰Sr levels. In this review, some rapid and practical methods for ⁹⁰Sr routine monitoring are summarized. Different sample pretreatments and major purification procedures for ⁹⁰Sr developed in recent years, such as variable digestion methods and extraction chromatography using Sr resin or DGA resin, are especially described. Additionally, four conventional and widely used β spectrometric and mass spectrometric methods are demonstrated. Finally, ⁹⁰Sr evaluations focusing on contaminated soil and seawater samples collected after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, and ⁹⁰Sr application as tracers for environmental behavior are also reviewed.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uy56cZ
via IFTTT

Interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans: Remarks and methodological dangers of a dental calculus microbiome analysis

Publication date: Available online 18 July 2018

Source: Journal of Human Evolution

Author(s): Philippe Charlier, Frédérick Gaultier, Geneviève Héry-Arnaud

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zR584H
via IFTTT

Editorial Board

Publication date: July 2018

Source: Journal of Human Evolution, Volume 120

Author(s):

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uvOeDG
via IFTTT

Oldowan technological behaviour at HWK EE (Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania)

Publication date: July 2018

Source: Journal of Human Evolution, Volume 120

Author(s): Ignacio de la Torre, Rafael Mora

Abstract

HWK EE (Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania) is a late Oldowan site dated to ∼1.7 Ma that contains a large fossil and lithic assemblage. This paper reports on the technology of the recently excavated stone tool collection, over 18,000 pieces. Our results indicate that reduction sequences were generally short, flaking productivity was low, and knapping methods were largely simple and expedient, lacking the technical skills observed in other Oldowan assemblages. Conspicuous differences are observed in the chaînes opératoires of the three main raw materials used at HWK EE: the quartzite reduction sequence can be reconstructed in full at the site, most of the lava detached pieces are missing, and there is a preferential use of chert for retouched tools. This portrays a composite picture, where knapping expediency and low productivity are accompanied by raw material selectivity and consistent presence of retouched artefacts. Coexistence of these features in the same assemblage leads us to question the monolithic structure of the Oldowan techno-complex, and highlights the kaleidoscopic nature of technological strategies at Olduvai immediately before the earliest Acheulean handaxes appear in the sequence.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LtZkQb
via IFTTT

Structure-function comparisons of (p)ppApp vs (p)ppGpp for Escherichia coli RNA polymerase binding sites and for rrnB P1 promoter regulatory responses in vitro

Publication date: August 2018

Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1861, Issue 8

Author(s): Bożena Bruhn-Olszewska, Vadim Molodtsov, Michał Sobala, Maciej Dylewski, Katsuhiko S. Murakami, Michael Cashel, Katarzyna Potrykus

Abstract

Precise regulation of gene expression is crucial for bacteria to respond to changing environmental conditions. In addition to protein factors affecting RNA polymerase (RNAP) activity, second messengers play an important role in transcription regulation, such as well-known effectors of the stringent response: guanosine 5′triphosphate-3′diphosphate and guanosine 3′, 5′-bis(diphosphate) [(p)ppGpp]. Although much is known about importance of the 5′ and 3′ moieties of (p)ppGpp, the role of the guanine base remains somewhat cryptic. Here, we use (p)ppGpp's adenine analogs [(p)ppApp] to investigate how the nucleobase contributes to determine its binding site and transcriptional regulation. We determined X-ray crystal structure of Escherichia coli RNAP-(p)ppApp complex, which shows the analogs bind near the active site and switch regions of RNAP. We have also explored the regulatory effects of (p)ppApp on transcription initiating from the well-studied E. coli rrnB P1 promoter to assess and compare properties of (p)ppApp with (p)ppGpp. We demonstrate that contrary to (p)ppGpp, (p)ppApp activates transcription at this promoter and DksA hinders this effect. Moreover, pppApp exerts a stronger effect than ppApp. We also show that when ppGpp and pppApp are present together, the outcome depends on which one of them was pre-incubated with RNAP first. This behavior suggests a surprising Yin-Yang like reciprocal plasticity of RNAP responses at a single promoter, occasioned simply by pre-exposure to one or the other nucleotide. Our observations underscore the importance of the (p)ppNpp's purine nucleobase for interactions with RNAP, which may lead to a better fundamental understanding of (p)ppGpp regulation of RNAP activity.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2O0QJpI
via IFTTT

Gold rush to gene-editing in the brain

Gold rush to gene-editing in the brain

Gold rush to gene-editing in the brain, Published online: 18 July 2018; doi:10.1038/s41576-018-0038-6

A study in Nature Biomedical Engineering reports improvements in neurological symptoms in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome after non-viral delivery of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins to the brain.

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2L3U3CL
via IFTTT

Maternal Decision-Making and Uptake of Health Services for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission: A Secondary Analysis

Abstract

Objectives We investigated whether a woman's role in household decision-making was associated with receipt of services to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT). Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of the PEARL study, an evaluation of PMTCT effectiveness in Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, South Africa, and Zambia. Our exposure of interest was the women's role (active vs. not active) in decision-making about her healthcare, large household purchases, children's schooling, and children's healthcare (i.e., four domains). Our primary outcomes were self-reported engagement at three steps in PMTCT: maternal antiretroviral use, infant antiretroviral prophylaxis, and infant HIV testing. Associations found to be significant in univariable logistic regression were included in separate multivariable models. Results From 2008 to 2009, 613 HIV-infected women were surveyed and provided information about their decision-making roles. Of these, 272 (44.4%) women reported antiretroviral use; 281 (45.9%) reported infant antiretroviral prophylaxis; and 194 (31.7%) reported infant HIV testing. Women who reported an active role were more likely to utilize infant HIV testing services, across all four measured domains of decision-making (adjusted odds ratios [AORs] 2.00–2.89 all p < .05). However, associations between decision-making and antiretroviral use—for both mother and infant—were generally not significant. An exception was active decision-making in a woman's own healthcare and reported maternal antiretroviral use (AOR 1.69, p < 0.05). Conclusions for Practice Associations between decision-making and PMTCT engagement were inconsistent and may be related to specific characteristics of individual health-seeking behaviors. Interventions seeking to improve PMTCT uptake should consider the type of health-seeking behavior to better optimize health services.

from Health via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zQFQ6M
via IFTTT

AAA study sets a benchmark for turnover in the EMS industry

Voluntary turnover and involuntary turnover of part-time and full-time EMS providers was studied to determine the overall EMS turnover rate

from EMS via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2L7qWhF
via IFTTT

Gastric adenocarcinoma coexisting with a reddish semipedunculated polyp arising from Helicobacter pylori -negative normal gastric mucosa: a report of two cases

Abstract

We experienced two cases of adenocarcinoma coexisting with a hyperplastic polyp arising from Helicobacter pylori-negative normal gastric mucosa. The first case was of a 59-year-old man. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a protruding lesion measuring 4 mm in diameter on the greater curvature of the middle gastric body. The second case was of a 47-year-old man. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a protruding lesion measuring 5 mm located at the greater curvature of the upper gastric body. The absence of atrophic changes in the entire gastric mucosa was confirmed endoscopically in both cases. Multiple H. pylori tests were all negative. Endoscopically, these protruding lesions appeared as reddish, semipedunculated polyps. Hyperplastic polyps were suspected based on white light endoscopic findings. Magnified endoscopy with narrow band imaging could not predict the coexistence of cancer. However, histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed focal cancer at the surface of the gastric hyperplastic polyps. Considering the possibility that cancer may be coexisting in polyps, when reddish polyps are detected in H. pylori-negative normal gastric mucosa, it is important to perform a biopsy, or a careful follow-up endoscopy.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LqoEGI
via IFTTT

Gold rush to gene-editing in the brain

from Genetics via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lsujfm
via IFTTT

Relationships between clinical presentation, serology, histology, and duodenal deposits of tissue transglutaminase antibodies in pediatric celiac disease

Digestive Diseases

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2mrO1ge
via IFTTT

Variables affecting penetrance of gastric and duodenal phenotype in familial adenomatous polyposis patients

BMC Gastroenterology

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uIr3oR
via IFTTT

Can a Call Make a Difference? Measured Change in Women’s Breastfeeding Self-efficacy Across Call Interactions on a Telephone Helpline

Abstract

Background Telephone helplines providing 24-h specialist-nurse contact present a source of immediate support for women encountering challenges with breastfeeding and may serve to prolong breastfeeding duration by building self-efficacy. To date there is little evidence on interaction effectiveness and still less on the relative effectiveness for women from different socio-economic backgrounds. Research Aim To establish the effect on maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy of calls made to a nurse-led parenting helpline. Methods From a corpus of calls made to the Australian Child Health Line (N = 723), those made by women presenting a breastfeeding concern as a prime issue (n = 60) were scored for breastfeeding self-efficacy at commencement and completion of recorded interactions. Analyses examined the significance and direction of change from beginning to end of calls and compared difference in change across calls originating from high and low social advantage locations. Results A significant increase in self-efficacy was found, but with low effect size. There was considerable variation among calls; 53% showed improvement, 25% showed no change and 22% showed reduction in breastfeeding self-efficacy. While most calls were made by women from socially advantaged locations, change was more positive for the small number of callers from disadvantaged locations. Conclusion The potential of nurse-led reactive telephone support is evident, but dependent on qualities of the interaction. For women living in disadvantaged locations telephone support may be of particular significance given the greater social barriers to breastfeeding they are likely to encounter.

from Health via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LupQca
via IFTTT

Relative comparison of tissue specific bioaccumulation and radiation dose estimation in marine and freshwater bivalve molluscs following exposure to phosphorus-32

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Emily L. Vernon, Jim T. Smith, Awadhesh N. Jha

Abstract

With respect to environmental protection, understanding radionuclide bioconcentration is necessary to relate exposure to radiation dose and hence to biological responses. Few studies are available on tissue specific accumulation of short-lived radionuclides in aquatic invertebrates. Short-lived radionuclides such as ³²Phosphorus (³²P), although occurring in small quantities in the environment, are capable of concentrating in the biota, especially if they are chronically exposed. In this study, we firstly compared tissue specific bioaccumulation and release (depuration) of ³²P in adult marine (Mytilus galloprovincialis, MG) and freshwater bivalve molluscs (Dreissena polymorpha, DP). Secondly, using the Environmental Risk from Ionising Contaminants Assessment and Management (ERICA) tool, we calculated tissue specific doses following determination of radionuclide concentration. Marine and freshwater bivalves were exposed for 10 days to varying ³²P concentrations to acquire desired whole body average dose rates of 0.10, 1.0 and 10 mGy d⁻¹. Dose rates encompass a screening dose rate value of 10 μGy h⁻¹ (0.24 mGy d⁻¹), in accordance with the ERICA tool. This study is the first to relate tissue specific uptake and release (via excretion) of ³²P from two anatomically similar bivalve species. Results showed highly tissue specific accumulation of this radionuclide and similarity of accumulation pattern between the two species. Our data, which highlights preferential ³²P accumulation in specific tissues such as digestive gland, demonstrates that in some cases, tissue-specific dose rates may be required to fully evaluate the potential effects of radiation exposure on non-human biota. Differential sensitivity between biological tissues could result in detrimental biological responses at levels presumed to be acceptable when adopting a 'whole-body' approach.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uJg0Mp
via IFTTT

Behaviour of carbon-14 containing low molecular weight organic compounds in contaminated groundwater under aerobic conditions

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Aislinn A. Boylan, Douglas I. Stewart, James T. Graham, Ian T. Burke

Abstract

Short chain carbon-14 (¹⁴C) containing organic compounds can be formed by abiotic oxidation of carbides and impurities within nuclear fuel cladding. During fuel reprocessing and subsequent waste storage there is potential for these organic compounds to enter shallow subsurface environments due to accidental discharges. Currently there is little data on the persistence of these compounds in such environments. Four ¹⁴C-labelled compounds (acetate; formate; formaldehyde and methanol) were added to aerobic microcosm experiments that contained glacial outwash sediments and groundwater simulant representative of the Sellafield nuclear reprocessing site, UK. Two concentrations of each electron donor were used, low concentration (10⁻⁵ M) to replicate predicted concentrations from an accidental release and high concentration (10⁻² M) to study the impact of the individual electron donor on the indigenous microbial community in the sediment. In the low concentration system only ∼5% of initial ¹⁴C remained in solution at the end of experiments in contact with atmosphere (250–350 h). The production of ¹⁴CO₂(g) (measured after 48 h) suggests microbially mediated breakdown is the primary removal mechanism for these organic compounds, although methanol loss may have been partially by volatilisation. Highest retention of ¹⁴C by the solid fractions was found in the acetate experiment, with 12% being associated with the inorganic fraction, suggesting modest precipitation as solid carbonate. In the high concentration systems only ∼5% of initial ¹⁴C remains in solution at the end of the experiments for acetate, formate and methanol. In the formaldehyde experiment only limited loss from solution was observed (76% remained in solution). The microbial populations of unaltered sediment and those in the low concentration experiments were broadly similar, with highly diverse bacterial phyla present. Under high concentrations of the organic compounds the abundance of common operational taxonomic units was reduced by 66% and the community structure was dominated by Proteobacteria (particularly Betaproteobacteria) signifying a shift in community structure in response to the electron donor available. The results of this study suggest that many bacterial phyla that are ubiquitous in near surface soils are able to utilise a range of ¹⁴C-containing low molecular weight organic substances very rapidly, and thus such substances are unlikely to persist in aerobic shallow subsurface environments.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lgv7XJ
via IFTTT

Spatial relationship between the field-measured ambient gamma dose equivalent rate and geological conditions in a granitic area, Velence Hills, Hungary: An application of digital spatial analysis methods

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Silvana Beltrán Torres, Attila Petrik, Katalin Zsuzsanna Szabó, Gyozo Jordan, Jun Yao, Csaba Szabó

In order to estimate the annual dose that the public receive from natural radioactivity, the identification of the potential risk areas is required which, in turn, necessitates understanding the relationship between the spatial distribution of natural radioactivity and the geogenic risk factors (e.g., rock types, presence of dikes, faults, physical conditions of soil, etc.). A detailed spatial analysis of outdoor ambient gamma dose equivalent rate was performed in the western side of Velence Hills, the largest outcropped granitic area in Hungary. In order to assess the role of local geology in the spatial distribution of gamma dose rates, field measurements were carried out at ground level at 300 sites along a 250 m x 250 m regular grid in a total surface of 19.8 km². Digital image processing methods were applied to identify anomalies, heterogeneities and spatial patterns in the measured gamma dose rates, including local maxima and minima determination, digital cross sections, gradient magnitude and gradient direction, second derivative profile curvature, local variability, lineament density, 2D autocorrelation and directional variogram analyses. Statistical inference shows that different gamma dose rate levels are associated with the geological formations, with the highest level on the Carboniferous granite including outlying values. Moreover, digital image processing reveales that linear gamma dose rate spatial features are parallel to the SW-NE dike system and to the NW-SE main fractures. The results of this study underline the importance of understanding the role of geogenic risk factors influencing the ambient gamma dose equivalent rate received by public. The study also demonstrates the power of the image processing techniques for the identification of spatial pattern in field-measured geogenic radiation.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uQNfxp
via IFTTT

Evaluation of groundwater discharge into surface water by using Radon-222 in the Source Area of the Yellow River, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Peng Yi, Huan Luo, Li Chen, Zhongbo Yu, Huijun Jin, Xiaobing Chen, Chengwei Wan, Ala Aldahan, Minjie Zheng, Qingfang Hu

Abstract

Understanding hydrological processes in the Source Area of the Yellow River (SAYR), Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is vital for protection and management of groundwater and surface water resources in the region. In situ water measurements of exchange rates between surface water and groundwater are, however, hard to conduct because of the harsh natural conditions of the SAYR. We here present an indirect method using in situ ²²²Rn measurements to estimate groundwater discharge into rivers and lakes in the SAYR. ²²²Rn was measured in rivers, lakes, groundwater and springs during three sampling periods (2014–2016), and the results indicate large variability in the concentration of the isotope. The data also indicate decreasing ²²²Rn trends in groundwater in the cold season (the Feb-2015 sampling period) which may be linked to frequency of capturing ²²²Rn in the frozen ground caused by geocryogenic processes. In addition, permafrost spatial extent and freeze-thaw processes have strongly affected the hydrological conditions in the region.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lgv4ev
via IFTTT

A study of the influence of brevetoxin exposure on trace element bioaccumulation in the blue mussel Mytilus edulis

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Simon Pouil, Rachel J. Clausing, Marc Metian, Paco Bustamante, Marie Yasmine Dechraoui-Bottein

Abstract

Marine organisms are exposed to and affected by a multitude of chemicals present in seawater and can accumulate in their tissues a wide range of contaminants as well as natural biotoxins associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs). Trace elements and biotoxins may modify physiological functions in exposed organisms, and studies have been conducted to better understand their respective kinetics and effects in marine species. Despite the increasing concern of concurrent toxic HABs and pollution events due to anthropogenic pressures and global change, very little information is available on their combined effects. Chemical interactions between biotoxins and trace elements have been reported, and exposure to certain biotoxins is known to modify ion transport pathways, suggesting that biotoxins have the potential to alter trace element uptake. Using specific and sensitive radiotracer techniques (radioligand receptor binding assay and γ-spectrometry), this laboratory study examined the influence of pre-exposure to the brevetoxins (PbTxs)-producing microalgae Karenia brevis on the bioaccumulation of selected non-essential (Cd) and essential (Co, Mn and Zn) trace elements in the blue mussel Mytilus edulis. PbTxs are a group of neurotoxins known to accumulate in bivalves but also to have lethal effects on a number of marine organisms including fish and mammals. We found that, over 23 days exposure to the radiotracers, the bioaccumulation of the dissolved essential trace elements Co, Mn and Zn in M. edulis was not significantly affected by pre-exposure to toxic K. brevis. In contrast, the uptake rate constant k_u of Cd was significantly higher in the pre-exposed group (p < 0.05), likely caused by a decrease in mussel clearance rates after K. brevis exposure. These results suggest that the effects of algal toxin exposure on bioaccumulation of trace elements in mussels may be trace element-dependent.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Jx3Rj1
via IFTTT

Concentrations and biological half-life of radioactive cesium in epigeic earthworms after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): S. Tanaka, T. Adati, T. Takahashi, K. Fujiwara, S. Takahashi

Abstract

To understand the long-term behavior of radiocesium in the biological processes of a forest ecosystem, its concentration in Japanese epigeic earthworms (Megascolecidae), litter, and soil, and the ambient dose equivalent rates, were investigated after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. The metabolism of radiocesium in the earthworms was also investigated in the laboratory, and its biological half-life (T_b) was estimated. The concentration of ¹³⁷Cs in the habitat soil and litter changed from 2014 to 2016, with levels in the litter going from 44.9 Bq/g dw (in 2014) to 45.3 Bq/g dw (2015) and 10.7 Bq/g dw (2016); in soil, these values were 9.79 Bq/g dw, 7.14 Bq/g dw and 18.0 Bq/g dw, respectively. By contrast, no significant changes were observed in the concentrations in the earthworms, which were 4.87 Bq/g fw, 5.30 Bq/g fw and 4.67 Bq/g fw in 2014, 2015, and 2016, respectively. The ambient dose equivalent rates at the sampling site declined significantly over these three years, going from 2.15 μSv/h to 1.68 μSv/h and 1.35 μSv/h, mostly corresponding to physical decay of radiocesium. The majority (95%) of the ¹³⁷Cs in the earthworms, observed via autoradiography, was concentrated primarily in the intestine. The clearance of ¹³⁷Cs from the earthworms was described by dual exponential functions: the half-life in the rapid loss due to gut clearance was 0.10 days and a second slower loss due to physiological clearance was 27.4 days.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lgv12j
via IFTTT

Accumulation of U(VI) on the Pantoea sp. TW18 isolated from radionuclide-contaminated soils

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Zexin Zhang, Haibo Liu, Wencheng Song, Wenjie Ma, Wei Hu, Tianhu Chen, Lei Liu

Abstract

Pantoea sp. TW18 isolated from radionuclide-contaminated soils was used for the bioremediation of radionuclides pollution. Accumulation mechanism of U(VI) on Pantoea sp. TW18 was investigated by batch experiments and characterization techniques. The batch experiments revealed that Pantoea sp. TW18 rapidly reached accumulation equilibrium at approximately 4 h with a high accumulation capacity (79.87 mg g⁻¹ at pH 4.1 and T = 310 K) for U(VI). The accumulation data of U(VI) onto Pantoea sp. TW18 can be satisfactorily fitted by pseudo-second-order model. The accumulation of U(VI) on Pantoea sp. TW18 was affected by pH levels, not independent of ionic strength. Analysis of the FT-IR and XPS spectra demonstrated that accumulated U(VI) ions were primarily bound to nitrogen- and oxygen-containing functional groups (i.e., carboxyl, amide and phosphoryl groups) on the Pantoea sp. TW18 surface. This study showed that Pantoea sp. TW18 can be considered as a promising sorbent for remediation of radionuclides in environmental cleanup.

Graphical abstract

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uJAvIH
via IFTTT

Distribution and fate of 129I in the seabed sediment off Fukushima

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Shigeyoshi Otosaka, Yuhi Satoh, Takashi Suzuki, Jun Kuwabara, Takahiro Nakanishi

Abstract

In this study, seabed sediment was collected from 26 stations located within 160 km from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) during the 2 years which followed the FDNPP accident of March 2011 and the concentrations of ¹²⁹I and ¹³⁷Cs were measured. By comparing the distribution of these two radionuclides with respect to their different geochemical behaviors in the environment, the transport of accident-derived radionuclides near the seafloor is discussed. The concentration of ¹²⁹I in seabed sediment recovered from offshore Fukushima in 2011 ranged between 0.02 and 0.45 mBq kg⁻¹, with ¹²⁹I/¹³⁷Cs activity ratios of (1.9 ± 0.5) × 10⁻⁶ Bq Bq⁻¹. The initial deposition of ¹²⁹I to the seafloor in the study area was 0.36 ± 0.13 GBq, and the general distribution of sedimentary ¹²⁹I was established within 6 months after the accident. Although iodine is a biophilic element, the accident-derived ¹²⁹I negligibly affects the benthic ecosystem. Until October 2013, a slight increase in activity of ¹²⁹I in the surface sediment along the shelf-edge region (bottom depth: 200–400 m) was observed, despite that such a trend was not observed for ¹³⁷Cs. The preferential increase of the ¹²⁹I concentrations in the shelf-edge sediments was presumed to be affected by the re-deposition in the shelf-edge sediments of ¹²⁹I desorbed from the contaminated coastal sediment. The results obtained from this study indicate that ¹²⁹I/¹³⁷Cs in marine particles is a useful indicator for tracking the secondary transport of accident-derived materials, particularly biophilic radionuclides, from the coast to offshore areas.

Graphical abstract

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lk6CZF
via IFTTT

A study of temporal variations of 7Be and 210Pb concentrations and their correlations with rainfall and other parameters in the South West Coast of India

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): M.P. Mohan, Renita Shiny D'Souza, S. Rashmi Nayak, Srinivas S. Kamath, Trilochana Shetty, K. Sudeep Kumara, I. Yashodhara, Y.S. Mayya, N. Karunakara

Abstract

As a part of establishing a regional database on natural radioactivity, the atmospheric concentrations of ²¹⁰Pb and ⁷Be were measured over a three and half year period (2014–2017) in Mangalore and Kaiga in the South West Coast of India. A total of 99 air samples, collected in the different months of the year, were analysed in this study. The mean activity concentrations of ⁷Be and ²¹⁰Pb were found to be 5.5 ± 3.1 mBq m⁻³ and 1.1 ± 0.73 mBq m⁻³, respectively. Both the radionuclides exhibited strong seasonal variations, with maximum concentration of ⁷Be occurring in the summer and that of ²¹⁰Pb in the winter season. The concentration of both the radionuclides was minimum in the rainy season. Higher ²¹⁰Pb concentration during winter was attributed to the ingression of continental air masses due to the wind regime from the North East. The sunspot number index of the solar activity also plays an important role in the increase and decrease of ⁷Be concentration in the air. A clear trend of increased and lowered concentration of ⁷Be with lower and higher solar activity (low and high sunspot number), respectively, in accordance with the 11-year solar cycle, was observed in this study. The temporal variation of PM₁₀ concentration was also studied and it showed maximum value in the winter and minimum in the rainy season with an average of 56.9 μg m⁻³. Statistically significant positive correlation was observed between the PM₁₀ and ²¹⁰Pb activity concentration, whereas a weak correlation was observed between PM₁₀ and ⁷Be. This is due to the fact that ⁷Be is largely associated with sub-micrometer size particles, whereas PM₁₀ is contributed by larger sizes. The dependence of the activity concentrations of ⁷Be and ²¹⁰Pb with meteorological parameters such as rainfall, temperature, and humidity was studied through linear regression analysis. A significant correlation was observed between ⁷Be and ²¹⁰Pb concentrations with rainfall intensity (with identical correlation coefficients), which suggested that the removal mechanisms of these two radionuclides were similar. ⁷Be showed a strong correlation with temperature, whereas ²¹⁰Pb with humidity. A comparison of the data obtained in the present study for the South West Coast of India with the global literature values of ⁷Be and ²¹⁰Pb in aerosols showed that the values did not reflect the well-known latitudinal dependence of the ⁷Be tropospheric fluxes. Overall, the study provides an improved understanding of the correlation and variability of ²¹⁰Pb and ⁷Be concentrations in the atmosphere in the South West Coast of India.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Jyyqom
via IFTTT

Presence of artificial radionuclides in samples from potable water and wastewater treatment plants

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): J. Martínez, A. Peñalver, T. Baciu, M. Artigues, M. Danús, C. Aguilar, F. Borrull

Abstract

Human activity, such as the operation of nuclear power plants (NPPs) and the use of radionuclides in nuclear medicine, results in the presence of artificial radionuclides in surface waters, which may even reach potable water treatment plants (PWTPs) and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs).

In this study, water and sludge samples from a PWTP are radiologically monitored. The incoming water of the plant is influenced by the presence of an NPP upstream. Two WWTPs receiving wastewater from medical centres and other origins are also studied. As a result, ¹³¹I, ⁶⁰Co and ¹³⁷Cs have been determined in the dewatered sludge samples from the PWTP, while ¹³¹I, ^99mTc, ⁶⁷Ga and ¹¹¹In were detected in the sludge samples from the WWTPs. The radionuclide activities in the influent water from the WWTPs studied were lower than the minimum detectable activity values. Therefore, on the basis of our results, the analysis of sludge samples is very useful as it enables the concentration of any radionuclides that may be present in the incoming water.

Lastly, as higher activity of ¹³¹I was detected in the samples studied, the total effective dose was assessed for WWTP workers, as they handle dewatered sludge containing this radionuclide. It can be concluded that there is no risk in terms of total exposure.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lk6Boz
via IFTTT

Determination of the gross activity of uranium, plutonium, americium and strontium in environmental samples using solid-state scintillation

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Jiří Janda, Jitka Tichá

Abstract

Rapid determination of selected gross alpha and beta emitters in environmental matrices by solid-state scintillation technique is discussed. This method is based on sample treatment using microwave reactor and direct measurement of digested products using powder scintillator and alkaline solution as a substitute for traditional liquid scintillation cocktail. The selected group of radionuclides was chosen with respect to their use in nuclear industry, high radiotoxicity, and the possibility of potential misuse. The work aimed at verifying the connection of microwave decomposition using alkaline solution with solid-state scintillation using a powder scintillator YAP:Ce together with an alkaline medium.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2uQMZyr
via IFTTT

Six-year monitoring of the vertical distribution of radiocesium in three forest soils after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Junko Takahashi, Yuichi Onda, Daichi Hihara, Kenji Tamura

Abstract

After the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident on March 2011, several studies showed that the downward migration of ¹³⁷Cs from litter to mineral soil is more rapid in forests in Fukushima than in forests affected by the Chernobyl accident. Therefore, the downward migration within mineral soil layers is more important for predicting long-term dynamics of ¹³⁷Cs in forest ecosystems in Fukushima. In the present study, we monitored the detailed vertical distribution of ¹³⁷Cs in litter and soil layers for 6 y (2011–2017) following the previous study (2011–2012), and found that temporal changes in those distributions were different among mixed forest (MF), mature cedar (MC) and young cedar (YC) forests. The ¹³⁷Cs concentrations and inventories in the litter layer exponentially decreased with time for all sites, with more than 80–95% of the deposited ¹³⁷Cs on the forest floor distributed in mineral soil layers by 2017. The percentage of ¹³⁷Cs inventory in the litter layer to the total ¹³⁷Cs inventory in litter and mineral soil layers was well fitted by a single exponential equation with decreasing rate of 0.22–0.44 y⁻¹. The slower migration was observed in the YC site, probably because of higher initial interception of ¹³⁷Cs fallout by dense canopy. As the downward migration from litter to mineral soil progressed, the ¹³⁷Cs concentration in the first few cm of mineral soil surface gradually increased and became higher than the ¹³⁷Cs concentration in the litter within 2–3 y of the accident. The ¹³⁷Cs concentration in mineral soil layers exponentially decreased with depth throughout survey period, and an exponential equation fitted well. The relaxation depth of ¹³⁷Cs concentration in mineral soil layers estimated by the exponential equation were constantly increasing in the MC and YC sites with 0.08 cm y⁻¹. In contrast, there was no temporal increase in the relaxation depth in the MF site, indicating little migration to subsurface soil layer from not only litter layer but also surface soil layer. Further studies are necessary to identify the forests prone to the downward migration of ¹³⁷Cs and its factors regarding both forest and soil characteristics.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lk6yJp
via IFTTT

An assessment of the effectiveness of UK building regulations for new homes in Radon Affected Areas

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Antony R. Denman, Robin G.M. Crockett, Christopher J. Groves-Kirkby

Abstract

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas generated underground by radioactive decay of nuclides contained in certain types of rocks, can concentrate inside buildings, where it poses the second-largest risk factor for lung cancer, after smoking. The highest concentrations of domestic radon in the UK occur in the south-western counties of Devon and Cornwall, but certain areas in Northamptonshire and surrounding counties in the English Midlands also have high levels. It has been shown that it is possible both to reduce the radon concentrations in existing houses and to build new homes with appropriate protection. Since 1999, the UK's Building Regulations have specified that all new homes should be built with a combined radon-proof/damp-proof membrane plus, in Radon Affected Areas, a sump under the building. However, the building regulations do not require that the radon level is measured once the house is built and so there is little information on the effectiveness of these measures. Builders generally do not mention radon, and when asked, just confirm that their houses are built to current standards.

To better understand the efficacy or otherwise of the currently mandated radon-protection measures, a cross-sectional investigation was carried out in 26 new housing developments in high-radon areas in Northamptonshire. In a targeted mail-shot, 1056 householders were invited to apply for a free radon test; 124 replied (11.7%). In total, 94 pairs of detectors were returned (70.1% of responders), of which two were spoiled, giving a total of 92 results.

Following processing and seasonal correction, the arithmetic mean radon concentration in the target houses was 45% of the arithmetic mean radon concentration in existing houses in the postcode sectors where the houses were built and were approximately log-normally distributed. No results exceeded the UK Action Level of 200 Bq. m⁻³ but three were above the Target Level of 100 Bq. m⁻³.

The results suggest that the radon-proof membranes in general ensure that radon concentrations in new homes constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations in Radon Affected Areas (RAAs) are satisfactorily low. However, there is a very small statistical probability that levels in a small number of homes will be close to or above the Action Level, particularly in areas of high radon potential. As a result, the Public Health England (PHE) recommendation for testing in the first year of occupation should be adopted as a legal requirement.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2JzNuC3
via IFTTT

A radioligand receptor binding assay for ciguatoxin monitoring in environmental samples: Method development and determination of quality control criteria

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Lisbet Díaz-Asencio, Rachel J. Clausing, Ma Llorina Rañada, Carlos M. Alonso-Hernández, Marie-Yasmine Dechraoui Bottein

Abstract

Ciguatoxins are algal toxins responsible for tens of thousands of human intoxications yearly, both in tropical and subtropical endemic regions as well as worldwide through fish exportation. Previously developed methods for biotoxin surveillance in the environment and seafood include analytical methods and in vivo and in vitro bioassays. The radioligand receptor binding assay (r-RBA) is among the in vitro methodologies currently used for the detection and quantification of marine biotoxins. For the ciguatoxin group, the r-RBA has been widely used as a means to characterize the mode of action and as detection method in various biological matrices. Yet, screening methods have not been standardized, and the details of the ciguatoxin-specific r-RBA are not well-documented, which limit interlaboratory comparison and progress toward method validation. This work presents the development of an optimized r-RBA for ciguatoxins and provides guidance on its use and quality control checks for analysis of environmental samples. We focus on the analysis of critical parameters involved in determining assay acceptability. Calculation of toxin concentrations in fish samples is illustrated with four examples. Thus, this paper provides the detailed information required for a full validation of the r-RBA, a necessary step toward the development and implementation of a regulatory monitoring programme for ciguatoxins in seafood products using the r-RBA.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Lk6tW7
via IFTTT

Review of Russian language studies on radionuclide behaviour in agricultural animals: Transfer to animal tissues

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): S. Fesenko, N. Isamov, B.J. Howard, N. Sanzharova, C. Wells

Abstract

Data on radionuclide transfer to animals from research performed in the former Soviet Union were reviewed to collate transfer coefficient values (F_f) to animal tissues such as liver, kidney and bone, but not muscle which has previously been reported. The derived values were compared with selected data published in the English language literature. The new data are mainly for ⁹⁰Sr and ¹³⁷Cs, although some data were also provided for ³H, ⁵⁴Mn, ⁵⁹Fe, ⁶⁰Co, ²²Na ⁶⁵Zn, ¹³¹I and U. The Russian language data may provide a basis for better informed evaluation of radiation dose from the consumption of such animal products, which can form important components of the diet in some countries.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2JxBrVO
via IFTTT

Permafrost thaw and implications for the fate and transport of tritium in the Canadian north

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 192

Author(s): Matthew J. Bond, Jamie Carr

Abstract

Layers of permafrost developed during the 1950s and 1960s incorporated tritium from the atmosphere that originated from global nuclear weapons testing. In regions underlain by substantial permafrost, this tritium has been effectively trapped in ice since it was deposited and subject to radioactive decay alone, which has substantially lengthened its environmental half-life compared to areas with little or no permafrost where the weapons-test era precipitation has been subject to both decay and hydrodynamic dispersion. The Arctic is warming three times faster than other parts of the world, with northern regions incurring some of the most pronounced effects of climate change, resulting in permafrost degradation. A series of 23 waterbodies across the Canadian sub-Arctic spanning the continuous, discontinuous and isolated patches permafrost zones in northern Manitoba, Northwest Territories and Labrador were sampled. Surface water and groundwater seepage samples were collected from each lake and analyzed for tritium, stable isotopes (δ¹⁸O and δ²H) and general water chemistry characteristics. Measured tritium was significantly higher in surface waters (SW) and groundwater seepage (GW) in water bodies located in the sporadic discontinuous (64 ± 15 T U. in SW and 52 ± 9 T U. in GW) and extensive discontinuous (53 ± 7 T U. in SW and 61 ± 7 T U. in GW) permafrost regions of the Northwest Territories than in regions underlain by continuous permafrost in northern Manitoba (<12 T U. in both SW and GW) or those within isolated patches of permafrost in Labrador (16 ± 2 T U. in SW and 21 ± 4 T U. in GW). The greatest tritium enrichment (up to 128 T U.) was observed in lakes near Jean Marie River in the Mackenzie River valley, a region known to be experiencing extensive permafrost degradation. These results demonstrate significant permafrost degradation in the central Mackenzie River basin and show that tritium is becoming increasingly mobile in the sub-Arctic environment—at concentrations higher than expected—as a result of a warming climate. A better understanding of the cycling of tritium in the environment will improve our understanding of Arctic radioecology under changing environmental conditions.

from Radiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LguQnF
via IFTTT

Recirculating Immunocompetent Cells in Colitic Mice Intensify Their Lung Response to Bacterial Endotoxin

Abstract

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease have higher incidence of airway hyperresponsiveness compared to the general population. Lung inflammation leading to airway hyperresponsiveness causes illnesses for more than ten percent of the population in USA.

Aims

We investigated the lung response to bacterial endotoxin in colitic mice.

Methods

Rag-1 mice were transplanted with negatively selected splenic T cells. Some mice groups were treated with NSAID to develop colitis. All mice were treated with bacterial endotoxin and necropsied 3 weeks later.

Results

Colitic mice developed intensified lung inflammation on day 21 of treatment with bacterial endotoxin. Pulmonary lymphocytes from colitic mice displayed a proinflammatory cytokine profile, expressed high ICAM1 and low FoxP3. CD11c⁺, CD8⁺ cells bound and responded to non-systemic antigens from gut-localized microbiota and had higher expression of TLR4.

Conclusions

Colitic mice developed exacerbated lung inflammation in response to bacterial endotoxin compared to non-colitic mice. Proinflammatory cytokines from pulmonary lymphocytes induced high expression of ICAM1 and suppressed FoxP3 on CD4⁺ cells. CD11c⁺, CD8⁺ cells binding and responding to gut-localized antigens as well as high expression of TLR4 indicate innate and adaptive lung response to bacterial endotoxin. Inflammatory cells from colons of colitic mice homed in the lungs as well as the intestine suggesting recirculation of sensitized immunocompetent cells. These data support our hypothesis that colitis intensifies lung inflammation.

from Gastroenterology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LiOG1v
via IFTTT

Comparison of a novel clinical score to estimate the risk of REsidual neuromuscular block Prediction Score and the last train-of-four count documented in the electronic anaesthesia record: A retrospective cohort study of electronic data on file

BACKGROUND Residual neuromuscular block (rNMB) after surgery is not difficult to identify if proper neuromuscular monitoring is used, but many clinicians do not use quantitative neuromuscular monitoring. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a REsidual neuromuscular block Prediction Score (REPS) to predict postoperative rNMB and compare the predictive accuracy of the prediction score with train-of-four count (TOFC) measurement at the end of a surgical case. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of data on file. DATA SOURCE Electronic patient data and peri-operative data on vital signs, administered medications, and train-of-four ratio (TOFR) obtained in the postoperative recovery rooms [postanaesthesia care unit (PACU)] at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. PATIENTS Quantitative TOFR measurements obtained on admission to the PACU were available from 2144 adult noncardiac surgical patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Presence of rNMB at PACU admission, defined as a TOFR of less than 0.9. RESULTS In the score development cohort (n=2144), rNMB occurred in 432 cases (20.2%). Ten independent predictors for residual paralysis were identified and used for the score development. The final model included: hepatic failure, neurological disease, high-neostigmine dose, metastatic tumour, female sex, short time between neuromuscular blocking agent administration and extubation, aminosteroidal neuromuscular blocking agent, BMI more than 35, absence of nurse anaesthetist and having an experienced surgeon. The model discrimination by C statistics was 0.63, 95% confidence interval (0.60 to 0.66), and risk categories derived from the REPS had a higher accuracy than the last documented intra-operative TOFC for predicting rNMB (net reclassification improvement score 0.26, standard error 0.03, P 

from Anaesthesiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2LfQoRj
via IFTTT

Near-infrared spectroscopy in vegetables and humans: An observational study

BACKGROUND Cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) of tissue oxygen saturation is claimed to be a surrogate marker for global cerebral perfusion. Increasingly, NIRS target-based therapy has been used during cardiac surgery in the hope of decreasing the incidence of adverse neurological outcome. OBJECTIVES We report NIRS values for some common vegetables and faculty at a world-class medical institution. DESIGN Observational nonblinded study. SETTING Single tertiary care institution and local urban vegetable market. PARTICIPANTS Five yams (Dioscorea cayenensis), five courgettes (Cucurbita pepo) and five butternut squashes (Cucurbita moschata) were studied. Five cardiothoracic surgeons and anaesthesiologists were the control group. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES NIRS value of each species. RESULTS Mean NIRS value for the control group was 71% [95% confidence interval (CI) 68 to 74] and was similar to that of the yellow squashes [75% (95% CI 74 to 76)]. These values were significantly greater than the NIRS measurements of both the butternut squash and yam [63% (95% CI 62 to 64) and 64% (95% CI 63 to 65), respectively, P 

from Anaesthesiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2JD1Guk
via IFTTT