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In this paper, drawn from anthropological research done for a project on Mexican imaginaries of outer space, I consider the role of the AEM, or Mexican Space Agency, in space education and outreach in Mexico, focusing on the ways in which the AEM engages with different sectors and social groups, including elementary age children, college students undertaking STEM careers and artists who use space imagery and technology in their work. The research undertaken for this project consists primarily of formal and informal interviews with key actors engaged with outer space who project space into Mexican futures from different perspectives, from enthusiastic involvement in technological advancement as a means of fomenting social and economic progress, to the artistic uses of space and technology as a means of critically reflecting on earthly issues of human relationality and geopolitical power. In addition to interviews, I draw on information gathered from documents, works of art, online discussion groups and attendance at events sponsored by the Mexican Space Agency. I am particularly interested in exploring the implications of the agency's mission to "promote space culture", as I critically confront anthropological notions of "culture" with the uses of this concept in the public sphere. I am also interested in understanding what is "Mexican" about Mexican space culture, and how national institutions and actors relate to their international counterparts. • Mexico has a nascent space program, but a millennial tradition of stargazing. • The AEM has a strong outreach program, although its public visibility could improve. • Importance of creation of a network of space entrepreneurs, scientists and artists. • Mexicans' outer space imaginaries are diverse, often critical of space exploration. • Anthropology can contribute to the dialogue on the promotion of "space culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers tested responses of the male praying mantis, Sphodromantis lineola, to computer-generated, square visual stimuli of different sizes to determine the stimulus parameters that impact their striking behavior. Among the findings, males in a low-hunger group were able to visually track linearly moving squares but, with rare exception, did not strike at any.

Purpose Concern about young people's sexuality is focused on the need to prevent harmful outcomes such as sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancy. Although the benefit of a broader perspective is recognized, data on other aspects of sexuality, particularly sexual function, are scant. We sought to address this gap by measuring the population prevalence of sexual function problems, help seeking, and avoidance of sex in young people. Methods A cross-sectional stratified probability sample survey (Natsal-3) of 15,162 women and men in Britain (response rate: 57.7%), using computer-assisted self-interviews. Data come from 1875 (71.9%) sexually active, and 517 sexually inactive (18.7%), participants aged 16–21 years. Measures were single items from a validated measure of sexual function (the Natsal-SF). Results Among sexually active 16- to 21-year-old participants, 9.1% of men and 13.4% of women reported a distressing sexual problem lasting 3 months or more in the last year. Most common among men was reaching a climax too quickly (4.5%), and among women was difficulty in reaching climax (6.3%). Just over a third (35.5%) of men and 42.3% of women reporting a problem had sought help, but rarely from professional sources. Among those who had not had sex in the last year, just >10% of young men and women said they had avoided sex because of sexual difficulties. Conclusions Distressing sexual function problems are reported by a sizeable minority of sexually active young people. Education is required, and counseling should be available, to prevent lack of knowledge, anxiety, and shame progressing into lifelong sexual difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with hypercoagulability, evidenced by increased markers of coagulation activation, including thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), prothrombin fragments 1 and 2 (F1 + 2), and D-dimer. Our aim was to compare the effect of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and open aneurysm repair (OAR) on changes in coagulation activation markers after intervention. Methods: Consecutive patients with AAAs reaching their intervention threshold in a tertiary vascular referral unit in the United Kingdom were invited to participate. The coagulation markers TAT, Fl + 2, and D-dimer were measured in venous blood collected at baseline and at 5 months after intervention. A forward stepwise multiple linear regression model was used to identify whether treatment by OAR or EVAR had an effect on changes in coagulation factors, independent of significant covariates. Results: The study included 47 patients (14 EVAR, 33 OAR; 85% men) who were a median age of 76 years (range, 69.5-80 years). Aortic diameter at intervention was 5.9 cm (range, 5.5-6.8 cm). There were no significant differences in clinical, anthropometric, or hematologic parameters between groups. At baseline, TAT (P = .13), F1 + 2 (P = .08), and D-dimer (P = .11) were similar in EVAR and OAR patients. Postintervention, there was a significant increase in TAT (3.0 [2.1-6.0] vs 7.2 [6.3-8.4] ng/mL; P = .03), Fl + 2 (242 [189-323] vs 392 [312-494] ng/mL; P = .003), and D-dimer (457 [336-615] vs 1197 [840-1509] ng/mL; P = .002) in the EVAR group. No significant changes were observed after intervention in the OAR group. Conclusions: AAA-related hypercoagulability persists after intervention, with increased TAT, F1 + 2, and D-dimer levels after EVAR. These findings suggest a potential period of increased cardiovascular risk in the postoperative period after EVAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Sac shrinkage is a surrogate marker of success after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). We set out to determine if any common cardioprotective medications had a beneficial effect on sac shrinkage. Methods: This retrospective observational study took place at Leeds Vascular Institute, a tertiary vascular unit in the Northern United Kingdom. The cohort comprised 149 patients undergoing EVAR between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2008. Medication use was recorded at intervention (verified at study completion in 33 patients), and patients were monitored for 2 years. The main outcome measures were the effect of medication on sac shrinkage as determined by percentage change in maximal idealized cross-sectional area of the aneurysm at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years by linear regression model, in addition to 2-year endoleak and death rates determined by a binary logistic regression model. Results: After exclusions, 112 patients, who were a median age of 78 years (interquartile range, 78-83 years), remained for analysis. The median Glasgow Aneurysm Score was 85 (interquartile range, 79-92). At 2 years, mortality was 13.4%, endoleak developed in 37.5%, and significant endoleak developed in 14.3%. Patients taking a calcium channel blocker had enhanced sac shrinkage, compared with those not taking a calcium channel blocker, by 6.6% at 6 months (−3.0% to 16.3%, P = .09), 12.3% at 1 year (2.9% to 21.7%, P = .008), and 13.1% at 2 years (0.005% to 26.2%, P = .007) independent of other medication use, graft type, endoleak development, or death. Conclusions: Enhanced sac shrinkage occurred after EVAR in patients taking calcium channel blockers. This warrants further study in other centers and at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: North American research finds increased sexual risk-taking among teenagers with same-sex partners, but understanding of underlying processes is limited. The research carried out in the United Kingdom compares teenagers'' early sexual experiences according to same- or opposite-sex partner, focusing on unwanted sex in addition to risk-taking, and exploring underlying psychosocial differences. Methods: Multivariate analyses combined self-reported data from two randomized control trials of school sex education programs (N = 10,250). Outcomes from sexually experienced teenagers (N = 3,766) were partner pressure to have first sex and subsequent regret, and sexual risk measures including pregnancy. Covariates included self-esteem, future expectations, substance use, and communication with mother. Results: By the time of follow-up (mean age, 16), same-sex genital contact (touching or oral or anal) was reported by 2.3% of teenagers, with the majority also reporting heterosexual intercourse. A total of 39% reported heterosexual intercourse and no same-sex genital contact. Boys were more likely to report partner pressure (Odds ratio [OR] = 2.56, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.29–5.08) and regret (OR = 2.32; 95% CI = 1.39–3.86) in relation to first same-sex genital contact than first heterosexual intercourse, but girls showed no differences according to partner type. Teenagers with bisexual behavior reported greater pregnancy or partner pregnancy risk than teenagers with exclusively opposite-sex partners (girls, OR = 4.51, 95% CI = 2.35–8.64; boys, OR = 4.43, 95% CI = 2.41–8.14), partially reduced by attitudinal and behavioral differences. Conclusions: This UK study confirms greater reporting of sexual risk-taking among teenagers with same-sex partners, and suggests that boys in this group are vulnerable to unwanted sex. It suggests limitations to the interpretation of differences, in terms of psychosocial risk factors common to all adolescents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: To describe variations in age differences (ADs) between partners at first heterosexual intercourse and to examine associations between this AD, sociodemographic characteristics, and circumstances of first heterosexual intercourse, by gender. Methods: A total of 3277 men and 4734 women aged 25–44 years who reported ever having heterosexual intercourse in a probability survey of the British population to obtain an unbiased sample of ADs at first intercourse. Face-to-face interviews collected sociodemographic data and information on first intercourse. Gender-specific cumulative distributions of ADs categorized respondents reporting relatively younger first partners (below fifth percentile) and those reporting relatively older first partners (above 95th percentile). Results: Relatively older first partners were six years older than men and 10 years older than women. Relatively younger first partners were three years younger than men and one year younger than women. Men and women with relatively older first partners were more likely to have just met their partner (odds ratios adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics [AOR] 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2–2.7, and 3.1, 95% CI 2.1–4.6, respectively); had a more willing first partner (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8, and 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.2, respectively); not used condoms at first sex (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.0, and 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.0, respectively); and reported a non-autonomous reason for first sex (AOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.4, women only). Men with relatively younger first partners were more likely to regret the timing of the first occasion (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.0–4.5). Conclusions: First partnerships involving relatively older or younger partners are associated with adverse circumstances of first intercourse. Condoms and other reliable contraception are less likely to be used, and age differences may reflect unequal power relations. Promoting effective communication and negotiation skills may be particularly important for those with relatively older or younger first partners. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background and Objectives: Overgeneral memory (OGM), difficulty in retrieving specific autobiographical memories, is a robust phenomenon related to the onset and course of depressive and posttraumatic stress disorders. Inhibitory mechanisms are theorized to underlie OGM; however, empirical support for this link is equivocal. The current study examines the differential roles of two aspects of inhibitory control in association with OGM: suppression of prepotent responses and resistance to proactive interference (PI). Only resistance to PI was expected to be negatively related to OGM, whereby individuals with greater ability to resist PI would have reduced OGM.Method: Participants (n = 49) completed a self-report measure of depressive symptoms and engaged in two tasks aimed at assessing resistance to PI and suppression of prepotent responses. Participants also completed a task assessing overgeneral autobiographical memory.Results: As hypothesized, resistance to PI, but not suppression of prepotent responses negatively predicted OGM above and beyond the influence of depressive symptoms.Limitations: Because a double dissociation was not examined, we cannot address the potential independence of the submechanisms of inhibitory control that we assessed.Conclusions: Results exemplify the differential associations of two components of inhibition and OGM, suggesting that resistance to PI, in particular, may contribute to the development and/or maintenance of OGM and associated depressive disorders. Directions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Psychological Flexibility (PF) is a relatively new concept in physical health. It can be defined as an overarching process of being able to accept the presence of wanted/unwanted experiences, choosing whether to change or persist in behaviour in response to those experiences. Associations between processes of PF and quality of life (QoL) have been found in long-term health conditions such as chronic pain, PF has not yet been applied to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).Methods: Changes in PF, fatigue severity and QoL were examined in one hundred and sixty-five patients with CFS/ME engaged in a six-week outpatient interdisciplinary group treatment programme. Participants were assessed using a series of self-report measures at the start of the start (T1) and end of a six-week programme (T2) and at six months follow up (T3).Results: Significant changes in PF and QoL were observed from pre-treatment (T1) to post treatment follow-up (T2 and T3); changes in fatigue severity were observed from T1 to T3 only. Controlling for fatigue severity, changes in the PF dimension of activity/occupational engagement were associated with improvement in QoL at six month follow up (T3) but not at six weeks post programme (T2).Conclusion: Findings indicate an interdisciplinary group treatment approach for people with CFS/ME may be associated with improved QoL, processes of PF and fatigue severity, supporting a link between PF and long term health conditions. Results highlight links between PF and patient QoL in CFS/ME and the value of interdisciplinary treatment approaches in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Invasive community-onset staphylococcal disease has emerged worldwide associated with Panton-Valentine leucocidin (PVL) toxin. Whether PVL is pathogenic or an epidemiological marker is unclear. We investigate the role of PVL in disease, colonisation, and clinical outcome. Methods: We searched Medline and Embase for original research reporting the prevalence of PVL genes among Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia, bacteraemia, musculoskeletal infection, skin and soft-tissue infection, or colonisation published before Oct 1, 2011. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) to compare patients with PVL-positive colonisation and each infection relative to the odds of PVL-positive skin and soft-tissue infection. We did meta-analyses to estimate odds of infection or colonisation with a PVL-positive strain with fixed-effects or random-effects models, depending on the results of tests for heterogeneity. Results: Of 509 articles identified by our search strategy, 76 studies from 31 countries met our inclusion criteria. PVL strains are strongly associated with skin and soft-tissue infections, but are comparatively rare in pneumonia (OR 0·37, 95% CI 0·22–0·63), musculoskeletal infections (0·44, 0·19–0·99), bacteraemias (0·10, 0·06–0·18), and colonising strains (0·07, 0·01–0·31). PVL-positive skin and soft-tissue infections are more likely to be treated surgically than are PVL-negative infections, and children with PVL-positive musculoskeletal disease might have increased morbidity. For other forms of disease we identified no evidence that PVL affects outcome. Interpretation: PVL genes are consistently associated with skin and soft-tissue infections and are comparatively rare in invasive disease. This finding challenges the view that PVL mainly causes invasive disease with poor prognosis. Population-based studies are needed to define the role of PVL in mild, moderate, and severe disease and to inform control strategies. Funding: None. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to identify factors associated with the use of emergency hormonal contraception (EHC). Methods: Data from a probability sample survey of 12,110 men and women aged 16–44 living in Britain were used for this study; 5916 women were selected as potential users of EHC, defined as women reporting at least one male partner in the year prior to the survey. Results: Of the 5916 women, 2.3% reported EHC use in the previous year. EHC use was more common among younger, single women, those with more than one sexual partner in the past year and those using condoms for contraception. It was significantly associated with experience of abortion (odds ratio adjusted for age, marital status and number of male partners: 2.40) but not with sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis. Conclusions: The use of EHC identifies a group of women at increased risk of unplanned pregnancy and condom use but not STI acquisition. Provision of information on more reliable contraceptive methods is needed to reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancy recurrence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Although ankle arthroscopy is increasingly used to diagnose syndesmotic instability, precisely where in the incisura one should measure potential changes in tibiofibular space or how much tibiofibular space is indicative of instability, however, remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine where within the incisura one should assess coronal plane syndesmotic instability and what degree of tibiofibular space correlates with instability in purely ligamentous syndesmotic injuries under condition of lateral hook stress test (LHT) assessment.Methods: Ankle arthroscopy was performed on 22 cadaveric specimens, first with intact ankle ligaments and then after sequential sectioning of the syndesmotic and deltoid ligaments. At each step, a 100N lateral hook test was applied through a lateral incision 5 cm proximal to the ankle joint and the coronal plane tibiofibular space in the stressed and unstressed states were measured at both anterior and posterior third of the distal tibiofibular joint, using calibrated probes ranging from 0.1 to 6.0 mm, in 0.1 mm of increments. The anterior and posterior points of measurements were defined as the junction between the anterior and middle third, and junction between posterior and middle third of the incisura, respectively.Results: Anterior third tibiofibular space measurements did not correlate significantly with the degree of syndesmotic instability after transection of the ligaments, neither before nor after applying LHT at all the three groups of different sequences of ligament transection (P range 0.085-0.237). In contrast, posterior third tibiofibular space measurements correlated significantly with the degree of syndesmotic instability after transection of the ligaments, both with and without applying stress in all the groups of different ligament transection (P range <0.001-0.015). Stressed tibiofibular space measurements of the posterior third showed higher sensitivity and specificity when compared to the stressed anterior third measurements. Using 2.7 mm as a cut off for posterior third stressed measurements has both sensitivity and specificity about 70 %.Conclusion: Syndesmotic ligament injury results in coronal plane instability of the distal tibiofibular articulation that is readily identified arthroscopically with LHT when measured in the posterior third of the incisura.Clinical Relevance: When applying LHT, tibiofibular space measurement for coronal plane instability along the anterior third of the incisura is less sensitive for identifying syndesmotic instability and may miss this diagnosis especially when subtle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The superiority of screw or suture button fixation for syndesmotic instability remains debatable. Our aim is to compare radiographic outcomes of screw and suture button fixation of syndesmotic instability using weight bearing CT scan (WBCT).Methods: Twenty patients with fixation of unilateral syndesmotic instability were recruited and divided among two groups (screw = 10, suture button = 10). All patients had WBCT of both ankles ≥12 months postoperatively.Results: In suture button group, injured side measurements were significantly different from normal side for syndesmotic area (P = 0.003), fibular rotation (P = 0.004), anterior difference (P = 0.025) and direct anterior difference (P = 0.035). In screw group, syndesmotic area was the only significantly different measurement (P = 0.006).Conclusion: While both screw and suture button didn't completely restore the syndesmotic area as compared to the contralateral uninjured ankle, external malrotation of the fibula was uniquely associated with suture button fixation.Level Of Evidence: III Retrospective Cohort Study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic and emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance remain a substantial global health threat. Microbiota are increasingly recognised to play an important role in health. Infections also have a profound effect beyond health, especially on global and local economies. To maximise health improvements, the field of infectious disease epidemiology needs to derive learning from ecology and traditional epidemiology. New methodologies and tools are transforming understanding of these systems, from a better understanding of socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural drivers of infection, to improved methods to detect microorganisms, describe the immunome, and understand the role of human microbiota. However, exploiting the potential of novel methods to improve global health remains elusive. We argue that to exploit these advances a shift is required in the teaching of infectious disease epidemiology to ensure that students are well versed in a breadth of disciplines, while maintaining core epidemiological skills. We discuss the following key points using a series of teaching vignettes: (1) integrated training in classic and novel techniques is needed to develop future scientists and professionals who can work from the micro (interactions between pathogens, their cohabiting microbiota, and the host at a molecular and cellular level), with the meso (the affected communities), and to the macro (wider contextual drivers of disease); (2) teach students to use a team-science multidisciplinary approach to effectively integrate biological, clinical, epidemiological, and social tools into public health; and (3) develop the intellectual skills to critically engage with emerging technologies and resolve evolving ethical dilemmas. Finally, students should appreciate that the voices of communities affected by infection need to be kept at the heart of their work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose and Hypothesis: Factors associated with adverse outcomes following surgery for syndesmotic instability with associated closed fibula fracture are incompletely understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the pathoetiology and incidence of adverse events after stabilization of syndesmotic instability. In addition, we aimed to identify any patient or surgeon related factors that might be associated with unanticipated outcomes.Methods: Between January 2000 and May 2015, a total of 849 adult patients who were surgically treated with either screw or suture button fixation for syndesmotic instability with associated fibula fracture without open wound were identified and retrospectively evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with any postoperative complication or unplanned reoperation.Results: Within one year after surgery, 10.7% (91 patients) suffered an infectious complication and 22.0% (187 patients) underwent unplanned reoperation. Factors associated with infectious complications were increased duration of hospital admission (OR: 1.08, p = .014), use of an external fixator device before ORIF (OR: 5.19 p < .001), peripheral vascular disease (OR: 4.33, p = .008), and osteoporosis (OR: 2.71, p = .022). For unplanned hardware removal specifically, patients' BMI below 30 was an associated risk factor. (OR: 1.50, p = .010).Conclusion: Certain patient groups have an increased risk of adverse events following the use of current surgical fixation methods for stabilizing the syndesmosis. Patients undergoing surgery for syndesmotic instability with associated fibula fracture without open wound should be counseled that up to 1 in 10 suffer an infectious complication and that 1 in 5 require unplanned hardware removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is mounting evidence that non-crop vegetation can promote natural enemies of crop pests but most studies use only one or a few approaches to explore key processes. Here we integrate field sampling, insect marking, insecticide disruption, and molecular gut content analysis to explore the potential value of non-crop habitats to predators of brassica pests in temperate Australia. Twelve monthly surveys of 13 farms established that an exotic ladybird ( Hippodamia variegata ) and a native lacewing ( Micromus tasmaniae ) were numerically dominant predatory arthropod species in brassica crops and present in adjacent perennial pasture, bushland and riparian vegetation. We applied dye to non-crop vegetation on three sites and subsequently sampled predators from adjacent brassica crops. Relatively large proportions of H. variegata and M. tasmaniae were marked, especially close to the non-crop vegetation though also extending 100 m into the crop, indicating predator immigration into the crop. In a third study, predators were monitored in three brassica crops after the host farmers sprayed insecticide to control what they considered to be excessive pest densities. Within two days, H. variegata and M. tasmaniae adults were present in the crops and numbers increased significantly over 12 days showing rapid crop recolonisation. Finally, molecular gut analysis indicated large proportions of both predator species sampled from non-crop (non-brassica) vegetation contained DNA of brassica-specialist herbivores suggesting predator movement from crop to non-crop vegetation, possibly to access nectar. Findings demonstrate H. variegata and M. tasmaniae are likely to be important predators of brassica pests in the region and expand our understanding of the significance of non-crop vegetation for coccinellids and lacewings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programmes were first implemented in several countries worldwide in 2007. We did a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the population-level consequences and herd effects after female HPV vaccination programmes, to verify whether or not the high efficacy reported in randomised controlled clinical trials are materialising in real-world situations. Methods We searched the Medline and Embase databases (between Jan 1, 2007 and Feb 28, 2014) and conference abstracts for time-trend studies that analysed changes, between the pre-vaccination and post-vaccination periods, in the incidence or prevalence of at least one HPV-related endpoint: HPV infection, anogenital warts, and high-grade cervical lesions. We used random-effects models to derive pooled relative risk (RR) estimates. We stratified all analyses by age and sex. We did subgroup analyses by comparing studies according to vaccine type, vaccination coverage, and years since implementation of the vaccination programme. We assessed heterogeneity across studies using I 2 and χ 2 statistics and we did trends analysis to examine the dose–response association between HPV vaccination coverage and each study effect measure. Findings We identified 20 eligible studies, which were all undertaken in nine high-income countries and represent more than 140 million person-years of follow-up. In countries with female vaccination coverage of at least 50%, HPV type 16 and 18 infections decreased significantly between the pre-vaccination and post-vaccination periods by 68% (RR 0·32, 95% CI 0·19–0·52) and anogenital warts decreased significantly by 61% (0·39, 0·22–0·71) in girls 13–19 years of age. Significant reductions were also recorded in HPV types 31, 33, and 45 in this age group of girls (RR 0·72, 95% CI 0·54–0·96), which suggests cross-protection. Additionally, significant reductions in anogenital warts were also reported in boys younger than 20 years of age (0·66 [95% CI 0·47–0·91]) and in women 20–39 years of age (0·68 [95% CI 0·51–0·89]), which suggests herd effects. In countries with female vaccination coverage lower than 50%, significant reductions in HPV types 16 and 18 infection (RR 0·50, 95% CI 0·34–0·74]) and in anogenital warts (0·86 [95% CI 0·79–0·94]) occurred in girls younger than 20 years of age, with no indication of cross-protection or herd effects. Interpretation Our results are promising for the long-term population-level effects of HPV vaccination programmes. However, continued monitoring is essential to identify any signals of potential waning efficacy or type-replacement. Funding The Canadian Institutes of Health Research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) involves dilatation of the abdominal aorta, with a natural history of expansion and eventual rupture. We have previously shown that AAA patients form denser clots with smaller pores, which are more resistant to fibrinolysis. The aim of this study was to use functional polymorphisms of the fibrinolytic system to identify how changes to proteins involved in fibrinolysis may play a role in the development of AAA. Methods Caucasian subjects ≥ 55 years (602 AAA patients and 490 matched controls) were genotyped for four polymorphisms (α-2-antiplasmin α2AP Arg6Trp and Arg407Lys, Thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor TAFI Thr325Ile and tissue plasminogen activator tPA 7351C → T). DNA was extracted from blood, and genotype identified using real time PCR. Fibrin clot structure was analysed by permeation and turbidity in a subset of patients and controls. Results Genotypes across the study population were in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium. The two α2AP polymorphisms, Arg6Trp and Arg407Lys were in linkage disequilibrium (P < 0.0001), and possession of a 407Lys allele negatively associated with AAA (odds ratio 0.833, CI95 0.7-0.991, P = 0.040). The TAFI Thr325Ile and the tPA 7351C → T polymorphisms were not associated with AAA. The α2AP 407Lys allele was not associated with in-vitro fibrinolysis times in plasma from patients with AAA. Conclusion Possession of the α2AP 407Lys allele was negatively associated with AAA, and thus changes in α2AP may affect aneurysm growth and development. These data indicate that the regulation of plasmin activity (through binding to α2AP), rather than plasmin generation (TAFI, tPA), may play a role in AAA. Abbreviations AAA, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm; α2AP, alpha 2 antiplasmin; DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid; ILT, Intra-luminal thrombus; LEADS, Leeds Aneurysm Development Study; TAFI, Thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor; tPA, tissue plasminogen activator [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recently, medical research has seen a strong push toward translational research, or “bench to bedside” collaborations, that strive to enhance the utility of laboratory science for improving medical treatment. The success of that paradigm supports the potential application of the process to other fields, such as risk assessment. Close collaboration among academic, government, and industry scientists may enhance the translation of scientific findings to regulatory decision making. The National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) developed a consortium-based research program to link more effectively academic and guideline-compliant research. An initial proof-of-concept collaboration, the Consortium Linking Academic and Regulatory Insights on BPA Toxicity (CLARITY-BPA), uses bisphenol A (BPA) as a test chemical. The CLARITY-BPA program combines a core perinatal guideline-compliant 2-year chronic toxicity study with mechanistic studies/endpoints conducted by academic investigators. Twelve extramural grantees were selected by NIEHS through an RFA-based initiative to participate in the overall study design and conduct disease-relevant investigations using tissues and animals from the core study. While the study is expected to contribute to our understanding of potential effects of BPA, it also has ramifications beyond this specific focus. Through CLARITY-BPA, NIEHS has established an unprecedented level of collaboration among extramural grantees and regulatory researchers. By drawing upon the strengths of academic and regulatory expertise and research approaches, CLARITY-BPA represents a potential new model for filling knowledge gaps, enhancing quality control, informing chemical risk assessment, and identifying new methods or endpoints for regulatory hazard assessments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: Our objective was to compare data on contraceptive use in relation to reported sexual activity in women from different minority ethnic groups.Design: We analyzed the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles 2000.Subjects: Women aged 16-44 years, numbering 6932 and residing in Britain, participated in this study.Main Outcome Measures: Our main outcome measures are as follows: percentage of women reporting sexual activity, use of contraception and type of contraception (hormonal, barrier or permanent methods).Results: Overall, fewer women from the UK's four main ethnic minority groups reported recent sexual activity, compared with white women. Among sexually active women, contraceptive use was significantly lower in all ethnic minority groups than in white women, but this pattern differed according to marital status. In ever-married or cohabiting women, lower contraceptive use was reported by Indian (78%) and Pakistani women (74%) than by other groups. Among single women, black Caribbean (88%) and black African (82%) women reported using less contraception compared with white (95%) and Indian (100%) women. Women from all ethnic minority groups were less likely than white women to report using hormonal contraception and permanent methods and were more likely to use barrier methods. The differences between ethnic groups remained significant after adjusting for educational achievement and parity. Deprivation and acculturation did not account for the use of contraception or the type of contraceptive method used.Conclusion: Sexually active married Pakistani and Indian women reported the lowest overall use of contraception. Among sexually active single women, black African and black Caribbean women reported levels of contraceptive use that were lower than those reported by white women. Sexually active women from all four minority ethnic groups were less likely than white women to use reliable methods of contraception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]