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Vitamin B6spielt bei der Biosynthese der Neurotransmitter GABA, Dopamin und Serotonin als Coenzym eine wichtige Rolle und ist somit für die gesunde perinatale Entwicklung des Zentralnervensystems von Bedeutung. In Studien mit Ratten konnte gezeigt werden, daß neugeborene Tiere von Müttern mit einem Vitamin-B6-Mangel biochemische und morphologische Anomalien im Gehirn (reduzierte GABA- und Dopaminkonzentrationen, verminderte Dendritenverzweigungen und reduzierte Zahl der myelinisierten Axone und Synapsen) aufwiesen, was Verhaltens- und motorische Störungen, wie epilepsieartige Krampfanfälle und Bewegungsstörungen zur Folge hatte. Bei menschlichen Neugeborenen mit einem schweren Vitamin-B6-Mangel wurden ähnliche Störungen beobachtet. Neugeborene, die marginal mit Vitamin B6unterversorgt waren, wiesen ein niedrigeres Geburtsgewicht auf und zeigten ein unreiferes reaktives und adaptives Verhalten als richtig ernährte Säuglinge. Es ist zwar noch nicht möglich, die für eine optimale Gehirnentwicklung benötigte Menge an Vitamin B6genau zu definieren; man sollte aber schwangeren und stillenden Frauen empfehlen, Vitamin-B6-reiche Nahrung auszuwählen. Vitamin B-6 is an important coenzyme in the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitters GABA, dopamine and serotonin and is therefore required for the normal perinatal development of the central nervous system. In rat studies, biochemical and morphological abnormalities (decreased dendritic arborization and reduced numbers of myelinated axons and synapses) in the brains of pups from vitamin B-6 deficient dams were associated with behavioral changes such as epileptiform seizures and movement disorders. In severely vitamin B-6 deficient human infants, similar behavioral abnormalities have been described. Marginally deficient neonates were found to have a lower birthweight and to display less mature reactive and adaptive behavior in the Brazleton Neonatal Assessment Scale than well-fed infants. While it is not yet possible to define the exact amount of vitamin B-6 required to support optimal brain development, pregnant and lactating women should be encouraged to consume a diet that is rich in vitamin B-6.

The prevalence of dental problems (periodontitis, loss of teeth, no or incomplete dentures) is almost universal in those over 65 years old. There is a tendency for inadequate dentition to affect nutrient intake, but associated psychological problems are often more important in determining food choice with avoidance of fresh fruit, raw vegetables and meat than the actual dental state. Studies are lacking correlating dental disease and food choice with vitamin blood levels. The part played by poor nutrition on dental health is most obvious in the pathological signs of vitamin deficiencies seen in the oral mucosa. There is some indication that vitamin A plays a role in the preservation of taste and smell capacity and vitamin C in tissue repair and immune response involved in the maintenance of periodontal health, but these possibilities need to be further investigated.

We report the characterization of the zebrafish zp-50 class III POU domain gene. This gene is first activated in the prospective diencephalon after the end of the gastrula period. During somitogenesis, zp-50 is expressed in a very dynamic and complex fashion in all major subdivisions of the central nervous system. After one day of development, zp-50 transcripts are present in the fore- and midbrain in several distinct cell clusters. In the hindbrain, zp-50 expression is found in two types of domains. Correct zp-50 expression in the ventral fore- and midbrain requires genes known to be involved in dorsoventral patterning of the zebrafish CNS. Transcripts of the sonic hedgehog (shh) gene encoding an intercellular signaling molecule are detected in the forming diencephalon shortly prior to the appearance of zp-50 mRNA. Correct expression in this region of both shh, and zp-50, requires a functional cyclops (cyc) locus: shh and zp-50 transcripts are likewise absent from the ventral rostral brain of mutant cyc-/- embryos. Injection of synthetic shh mRNA into fertilized eggs causes ectopic zp-50 expression at more dorsal positions of the embryonic brain. The close spatial and temporal coincidence of expression in the rostral brain, the similar response to the cyc- mutation, and the ectopic zp-50 expression in the injection experiments all suggest that zp-50 may directly respond to the reception of the Shh signal.

The mammalian Pax2, Pax5 and Pax8 genes code for highly related transcription factors, which play important roles in embryonic development and organogenesis. Here we report the characterization of all members of the zebrafish Pax2/5/8 family. These genes have arisen by duplications before or at the onset of vertebrate evolution. Due to an additional genome amplification in the fish lineage, the zebrafish contains two Pax2 genes, the previously known Pax[b] gene (here renamed as Pax2.1) and a novel Pax2.2 gene. The zebrafish Pax2.1 gene most closely resembles the mammalian Pax2 gene in its expression pattern, as it is transcribed first in the midbrain-hindbrain boundary region, then in the optic stalk, otic system, pronephros and nephric ducts, and lastly in specific interneurons of the hindbrain and spinal cord. Pax2.2 differs from Pax2.1 by the absence of expression in the nephric system and by a delayed onset of transcription in other Pax2.1 expession domains. Pax8 is also expressed in the same domains as Pax2.1, but its transcription is already initiated during gastrulation in the primordia of the otic placode and pronephric anlage, thus identifying Pax8 as the earliest developmental marker of these structures. The zebrafish Pax5 gene, in contrast to its mouse orthologue, is transcribed in the otic system in addition to its prominent expression at the midbrain-hindbrain boundary. The no isthmus (noi) mutation is known to inactivate the Pax2.1 gene, thereby affecting the development of the midbrain-hindbrain boundary region, pronephric system, optic stalk and otic region. Although the different members of the Pax2/5/8 family may potentially compensate for the loss of Pax2.1 function, we demonstrate here that only the expression of the Pax2.2 gene remains unaffected in noi mutant embryos. The expression of Pax5 and Pax8 is either not initiated at the midbrain-hindbrain boundary or is later not maintained in other expression domains. Consequently, the noi mutation of zebrafish is equivalent to combined inactivation of the mouse Pax2 and Pax5 genes with regard to the loss of midbrain-hindbrain boundary development.

To study the interactions of the alpha1S subunit of the skeletal muscle L-type Ca2+ channel with the skeletal beta1a and the cardiac beta2a, these subunits were expressed alone or in combination in tsA201 cells. Immunofluorescence- and green fluorescent protein-labeling showed that, when expressed alone, beta1a was diffusely distributed throughout the cytoplasm, beta2a was localized in the plasma membrane, and alpha1S was concentrated in a tubular/reticular membrane system, presumably the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Upon coexpression with alpha1S, beta1a became colocalized with alpha1S in the ER. Upon coexpression with beta2a, alpha1S redistributed to the plasma membrane, where it aggregated in large clusters. Coexpression of alpha1S with beta1a but not with beta2a increased the frequency at which cells expressed L-type currents. A point mutation (alpha1S-Y366S) or deletion (alpha1S-Delta351-380) in the beta interaction domain of alpha1S blocked both translocation of beta1a to the ER and beta2a-induced translocation of the alpha1S mutants to the plasma membrane. However, the point mutation did not interfere with beta1a-induced current stimulation. Thus, beta1a and beta2a are differentially distributed in tsA201 cells and upon coexpression with alpha1S, form alpha1S. beta complexes in different cellular compartments. Complex formation but not current stimulation requires the intact beta interaction domain in the I-II cytoplasmic loop of alpha1S.

Ihr Schattendasein überwunden haben freie Radikale in den vergangenen Jahren, und sie gelten schon längst nicht mehr nur als interessante reaktive Zwischenstufen mit begrenztem präparativem Nutzen. Neue Möglichkeiten für die Synthesechemie eröffnet die Durchführung von Radikalreaktionen in Gegenwart von Lewis-Säuren. In einzigartiger Weise kann die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit der radikalischen Addition an Olefine erhöht und der stereochemische Verlauf solcher Reaktionen kontrolliert werden. Jüngere Beispiele für enantioselektive Radikalreaktionen und Perspektiven für Anwendungen in der Katalyse werden vorgestellt.

Local carrier transport properties of Si-doped GaAs layers on ridge structures exhibiting (111)A and (111)B sidewalls are investigated. The layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy at different substrate temperatures and As/Ga flux ratios. Using spatially resolved Raman spectroscopy we determine the type and density of free charge carriers (≥ 5 × 1017cm−3) in the grown layers on the different index facets from an analysis of the coupled plasmon-longitudinal optical-phonon mode which was calibrated against Hall standards. We demonstrate that on the (100) and (111)B facets the regrown layers are n-type and on the (111)A facets p- or n-type depending on the growth conditions. Line scans of the carrier density show that the (100)/(111)A/(100) facet transition forms a graded lateral n-p-n junction. Spatially resolved photoluminescence measurements confirm our findings.

Imiquimod (R‐837, S‐26308) and the analogue S‐27609 were evaluated for cytokine induction in human blood cells. Both compounds induced interferon‐α (EFN), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF), interleukin (IL)‐1β, and EL‐6 with S‐27609 being 5 to 10 times more potent. Imiquimod and S‐27609 also induced IL‐1α, IL‐1 receptor antagonist, IL‐10, granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), granulocyte CSF (G‐CSF), and macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α. The profile of cytokines induced by imiquimod and S‐27609 was different from those seen with lipopolysaccharide and polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid. Kinetic studies with both imiquimod and S‐27609 revealed induction of cytokines as early as 1‐4 h after stimulation. Although most of the cytokines produced by S‐27609 were secreted, significant concentrations of IL‐1α and BL‐1β remained intracellular. Monocytes were largely responsible for the cytokines produced. Finally, S‐27609‐induced mRNA expression for TNF, IFN, and IL‐8, and this induction did not require protein synthesis. Taken together, these studies extend previous findings by showing induction of additional cytokines and providing insight into the mechanism of cytokine induction by these molecules.

Imiquimod (S-26308, R-837) (1-(2-methylpropyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinolin-4 amine), an immune response modifier, demonstrates potent antiviral and antitumor activity in animal models (see structure in Fig. 1Fig. 1R 837, Imiquimod.). The drug exhibits no direct antiviral or antiproliferative activity when tested in a number of cell culture systems. Imiquimods activity was discovered while screening for anti-herpes virus activity. One of the first analogs in the series, S-25059 was tested in the early 1980s and due to slight toxicity, caused slightly reduced herpes cytopathology in Vero cell cultures. Follow-up testing in herpes infected guinea pigs showed complete protection toward lesion development. Activity of these drugs results primarily from interferon alpha (IFN-α) induction and other cytokine induction. At least part of the cytokine induction is mediated through NF-κB activation. These cytokines stimulate several other aspects of the innate immune response. In addition, imiquimod stimulates acquired immunity, in particular the cellular arm which is important for control of viral infections and various tumors. This effect is mediated by drug induced IFN-αand Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IFN-γinduced by these cytokines. Imiquimod is expected to be effective where exogenous IFN-αhas shown utility and where enhancement of cell-mediated immunity is needed. The following is a brief review of the preclinical pharmacology of imiquimod and the clinical results of genital wart trials. The mechanism of action of topically applied imiquimod will likely lead to benefits in several other chronic virus infections and tumors of the skin. Two other reviews on imiquimod that focus mainly on the clinical results have been published (Beutner and Geisse, 1997; Slade et al., 1998).

Abstract A 647-bp 5′-flanking fragment obtained from genomic clone Sta 44G(2) belonging to a family of polygalacturonase genes expressed in Brassica napus pollen was fused to the β-glucuronidase (GUS) marker gene. This fusion construct was introduced into B. napus plants via Agrobacterium tumefaciens transformation. Analysis of the transgenic B. napus plants revealed that this promoter fragment is sufficient to direct GUS expression specifically in the anther and that GUS activity increases in pollen during maturation.

Immediate early genes of herpes simplex viruses contain one or more copies of the conserved TAAT-GARAT (where R is purine) DNA motif. A virus-encoded regulatory protein (Vmw65) is believed to stimulate transcription via this element, although the protein does not bind directly to DNA. Overlapping the TAATGARAT element in many cases is an octamer sequence (ATGCAAAT) that is involved both in transcription by RNA polymerases II and III and in adenovirus DNA replication. So far at least two proteins (OTF-1 and OTF-2) have been identified that bind to the octamer. We show that both affinity-purified OTF-1 and OTF-2 bind to the TAATGARAT sequence and that Vmw65 induces the formation of an additional complex that involves OTF-1 and that is further retarded in a band-shift gel assay. Complementation experiments involving addition of purified OTF-1 to nuclear extracts that have been depleted of endogenous OTF-1 show that at least one other cellular factor(s) is required for complex formation. This cellular factor may be involved in recognition of the GARAT sequence.

The B-cell form of the Oct-2 transcription factor Oct 2.1 can activate the herpes simplex virus immediate-early gene 3 (IE3) promoter, whereas the neuronally expressed Oct 2.4 and 2.5 forms of the protein, which contain a different C terminus, can repress this promoter. Here we show that partial or full deletion of the C terminus of Oct 2.1 in the presence of an intact N terminus results in a protein which can strongly repress the IE3 promoter. In contrast, deletion of the entire N terminus or a short region within it leaving the C terminus intact results in a very strong activator. Deletion of both N and C termini leaving only the isolated POU domain generates only a very weak repressor. The N-terminal region defined in this way can repress a heterologous promoter when linked to the DNA-binding domain of the GAL4 factor, indicating that it can function as an independent inhibitory domain. These results indicate that a specific region within the N terminus common to Oct 2.1, 2.4, and 2.5 plays a critical role in the ability of neuronally expressed forms of Oct-2 to repress the IE3 promoter but can do so only when the C-terminal region of Oct 2.1 is altered or deleted.

Two highly homologous cDNA clones, Sta 39-3 and Sta 39-4, corresponding to mRNAs highly expressed in Brassica napus cv Westar stamens were isolated by differential screening and characterized. Northern blot and in situ analyses demonstrated that Sta 39-3 and Sta 39-4 transcripts accumulate in pollen following the first pollen mitosis and are abundant at pollen maturity, thus identifying them as "late" pollen genes. Sta 39-3 and Sta 39-4 belong to a small gene family. Their predicted proteins share similarities with those deduced from recently isolated cDNAs encoding arabinogalactan proteins, which include a similar molecular mass (approximately 13 kD); high levels of alanine, proline, serine, and threonine, which are interspersed throughout the protein with no obvious repetitive motif; low levels of cysteine, histidine, tryptophan, and tyrosine; and hydrophobic N- and C-terminal ends. The Sta 39-3 and Sta 39-4 proteins may play a role in pollen germination and tube growth.

The human lymphoid-specific transcription factor OTF-2 contains a homoeodomain that is required for DNA binding and binds specifically to DNA elements that are recognized by Drosophila homoeodomain proteins, suggesting coevolutionary relationships between mammalian and invertebrate homoeodomain proteins and their DNA recognition elements.

A prospective neuro-otological study concerning 30 cases of fibrositis syndrome (psychogenic rheumatism, PR) and 30 age-matched normal controls was made and a retrospective study concerning 33 cases of Meniere's disease (MD) diagnosed and followed-up, examined between 1965 and 1982. Results showed: sensorineural hearing loss at low frequencies in all early stages of MD and in 10/30 of PR; hyperacusis (pain threshold below 100 dBHL bilaterally for all frequencies) without other sign of recruitment in 73.3 % of PR and in 314 cases of MD where it was measured (discomfort or vertigo due to noise was noted retrospectively in 16/33 of early stages of MD); hyperreactivity of per-rotatory nystagmus in 53.3% of PR without neurological or peripheral vestibular lesions and, with or without vestibular unilateral lesions, in 39.9% of MD. None of the controls showed hyperacusis, hyperreactivity of per-rotatory nystagmus or deafness at low frequencies.

Deletion and mutation studies of the human 7SK gene transfected into HeLa cells have identified three functional regions of the promoter corresponding to the TATA box at −25, the proximal sequence element (PSE) between −49 and −65 and the distal sequence element (DSE)between −243 and −210. These elements show sequence homology to equivalent regions in other snRNA genes and are functionally analogous. Unlike the DSEs of many snRNA genes however, the 7SK DSE does not contain a consensus binding site for the transcription factor Oct-1 but rather, contains two non-consensus Oct-1 binding sites that can function independently of one another to enhance transcription. Unusually, the 7SK PSE can retain function even after extensive mutation and removal of the conserved TGACC of the PSE has little effect in the context of the whole promoter. However, the same mutation abolishes transcription in the absence of the DSE suggesting that protein/protein interactions between DSE and PSE binding factors can compensate for a mutant PSE. Mutation of the 7SK TATA box allows snRNA type transcription by RNA polymerase II to occur and this is enhanced by the DSE, indicating that both the DSE and the PSE can also function with pol II. In addition, mutation of the TATA box does not abolish pol III dependent transcription, suggesting that other sequence elements may also play a role in the determination of polymerase specificity. Although the human 7SK gene is transcribed efficiently inXenopusoocytes, analysis of the 7SK wild-type gene and mutants inXenopus oocytesgives significantly different results from the analysis in HeLa cells indicating that the recognition of functional elements is not the same in the two systems.

We have previously identified a small-cell lung cancer cell line (NCI-H209) that expresses an aberrant, underphosphorylated form of the retinoblastoma protein RB1. Molecular analysis of RB1 mRNA from this cell line revealed a single point mutation within exon 21 that resulted in a nonconservative amino acid substitution (cysteine to phenylalanine) at codon 706. Stable expression of this mutant RB1 cDNA in a human cell line lacking endogenous RB1 demonstrated that this amino acid change was sufficient to inhibit phosphorylation. In addition, this cysteine-to-phenylalanine substitution also resulted in loss of RB1 binding to the simian virus 40 large tumor and adenovirus E1A transforming proteins. These results confirm the importance of exon 21 coding sequences and suggest that the cysteine residue at codon 706 may play a role in achieving a specific protein conformation essential for protein-protein interactions.

The principal food of burbot (Lota lota L.) (total length 14.2—63.2 cm) in Lake Biel, Switzerland, was found to consist primarily of fish and insects. The proportion of fish rises with increasing length of burbot. The food composition is subject to seasonal changes. Among fish consumed, perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) and roach (Rutilus rutilus L.) predominate. Fish eggs are eaten in very small quantitites throughout the whole year.

The Oct-2 transcription factor contains an inhibitory domain which is able to repress transcription following DNA binding. Here we show that within the neuronally expressed Oct-2.5 form, the inhibitory domain can strongly inhibit activation by transcription factor activation domains which are either composed predominantly of acidic residues or contain the HOB motif, whereas it has a weaker effect or no effect on proline-rich activation domains and on a glutamine-rich domain. In contrast, the isolated inhibitory domain of Oct-2 can efficiently repress all types of activation domains. This effect is observed however, only on TATA box-containing promoters and not on promoters containing an initiator motif. This widespread inhibition of different activation domains and its dependence on the nature of the basal promoter elements indicate that the inhibitory domain is likely to act by contacting a common downstream target of activation domains within the basal transcriptional complex bound at the TATA box rather than quenching specific activation domains by direct interaction. These effects are discussed in terms of the functional role of the inhibitory domain within Oct-2.5 and the mechanism by which it acts.

The flash-induced Ca2+- and Na+-influx and Na+/Ca2+-exchange activity in blowfly Calliphoraphotoreceptors were investigated. The change in membrane potential, induced by a bright flash, was intracellularly measured in vivo. Based on a biophysical photoreceptor model, the Na+- and Ca2+-currents and concentration changes were determined from the first transient depolarization phase of the photoreceptor response. The activity of Na+/Ca2+-exchange was determined from the afterdepolarization phase. It appeared that the Na+-influx by Na+/Ca2+-exchange is about twice that through light-activated channels, suggesting a substantial contribution of Na+/Ca2+-exchange to Na+-regulation.

The promoters of both RNA polymerase II- and RNA polymerase III-transcribed small nuclear RNA (snRNA) genes contain an essential and highly conserved proximal sequence element (PSE) approximately 55 bp upstream from the transcription start site. In addition, the upstream enhancers of all snRNA genes contain binding sites for octamer-binding transcription factors (Octs), and functional studies have indicated that the PSE and octamer elements work cooperatively. The present study has identified and characterized a novel transcription factor (designated PTF) which specifically binds to the PSE sequence of both RNA polymerase II- and RNA polymerase III-transcribed snRNA genes. PTF binding is markedly potentiated by Oct binding to an adjacent octamer site. This potentiation is effected by Oct-1, Oct-2, or the conserved POU domain of these factors. In agreement with these results and despite the independent binding of Octs to the promoter, PTF and Oct-1 enhance transcription from the 7SK promoter in an interdependent manner. Moreover, the POU domain of Oct-1 is sufficient for significant in vitro activity in the presence of PTF. These results suggest that essential activation domains reside in PTF and that the potentiation of PTF binding by Octs plays a key role in the function of octamer-containing snRNA gene enhancers.

The article discusses the musical career of Melville Jay Webster Sr. His music study began at the age of 15 playing flute with Theodore Hahn, and then played clarinet with Joseph Elliot. He became an educational director for H. & A. Selmer Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, where he wrote "The Selmer Elementary Clarinet Instructor" series. A speech he made at a bandmasters' clinic reportedly offered insights on his opinion about clarinet playing and handling mouthpieces. His music lessons, arrangements and directorial activities are also included.

The interpretation of photosynthesis experiments using 18O as a tracer becomes very difficult on account of the exchange rate between oxygen atoms of carbon dioxide and water. The mathematical analysis of the kinetics of isotope exchange between CO2 highly enriched with 18O and the water of an aerial leaf kept in darkness allows the determination of two velocity coefficients, ke and k. ke, related to the gaseous CO2 diffusion, makes it possible to evaluate the CO2 flow between the gaseous phase and the leaf, as well as the diffusion resistance of the boundary layer and the leaf stomata. k, related to the CO2 hydration, gives the in situ enzymic activity of carbonic anhydrase. Measurements carried out on a great number of leaves show that ke and k vary in the same direction.

In 1927 we were appointed a committee by the American Society for the Control of Cancer to report on the best methods of improving the service to the cancer patient. The present report is based on an individual study of the problem by us and on information secured from many sources. Discussions have been held with other members of the society and with many physicians, surgeons, and public health officers. The reports of the cancer conference at Lake Mohonk in 1926, and of the London congress of 1928, have been consulted. We and other members of the society have visited several European countries and have observed the trend of thought and progress in those countries and discussed the question of cancer service with authorities in each of these countries. In Europe we found uniform agreement that improvement in cancer service must precede any substantial progress in cancer control.The character

In most fractures of the lower extremity, the well established methods of immobilization by plaster cast or of continuous traction by Buck's extension or Hodgen's suspension will prevent shortening. Open operation is rarely indicated—in less than 5 per cent.— according to Darrach, with whom I fully agree.There is a definite group of exceptional cases in which none of the aforementioned procedures are applicable; here, nail extension has proved of value. According to this method, continuous traction is applied to the ends of a steel nail transfixing the lower fragment at a point well away from the site of fracture (Figs. 1, 2, 3 and 4). The nail is removed at the end of from twenty-eight to thirty-five days. As a rule, by this time there is enough callus to prevent shortening Needless to say, introduction and extraction of the nail are performed under anesthesia and with the strictest aseptic

In order to advance the development of molecular electronic devices, it is mandatory to improve the understanding of electron transport and functionalities in single molecules, integrated in a well-defined environment. However, limited information can be obtained by solely analyzing I–Vcharacteristics, whence multiparameter studies are required to obtain more information on such systems including chemical bonds, geometry, and intramolecular strain. Therefore, we developed an analytical method incorporating an optical near-field technique, which allows us to investigate single-molecule junctions at variable temperatures in strong optical fields. An apertureless near-field emitter acts as a counter electrode and a plasmonic waveguide to focus surface plasmon polaritons into the molecular junctions, where a strongly enhanced evanescent field is confined to only a few nanometers around the apex of the tip. The proof of concept, even at low temperatures, is demonstrated by simultaneously investigating electronic and optical features of the molecule p-terphenyl-4,4″-dithiol in dependence of its charge state. This multichannel method can be employed to analyze a variety of nearly unexplored properties in single-molecule junctions such as photoconductance and photocurrent generation and allows a characterization of the molecular junctions by spectroscopic means as well.

Identification of crystals in the synovial fluid (SF) is mandatory for the diagnosis of a microcrystal deposition arthropathy. In some cases, this analysis can be troublesome, especially in medical centers where a qualified practitioner is not continually present. Therefore, we investigated a method for preservation of a wet preparation of SF for 24 hours at room temperature. The procedure consisted in storing the preparation in a closed Petri plate whose bottom was covered by a cellulose compress moistened with saline (0.9% sodium chloride) separated from the slide by 2 wooden or glass sticks. The joint aspirates of 20 consecutive patients with various microcrystal arthropathies were read immediately after aspiration and reviewed after 24 hours on the slides stored according to the previously mentioned procedure. For 11 of the 20 cases, a second SF preparation was stored in normal conditions. The amounts of crystals were estimated semiquantitatively.Preparations stored in the Petri plates were clearly readable after 24 hours and crystals still identifiable on each slide. The amounts of crystals were still the same. After 24 hours, the preparations stored in normal conditions were dry, the shapes of the crystals were blurred, their amount was reduced, and birefringent artifacts were seen. In conclusion, when the amounts of SF are small and a skilled technician or a rheumatologist is not immediately available for reading the preparation, storing the wet preparation of SF in a moistened Petri plate can prove useful.

The article focuses on the issue on legal adoption of homosexual couples in Columbia considering the case of the couple Ana Leiderman and Veronica Botero. Topics discussed include the aspects of the registration of child under adoption rules, various considerations applied for qualified adoption such as the length of civil union as reflected by the Colombian Institute of Family welfare (CIFW), and their victory towards the legal actions filed by the couple regarding the issue.

Discusses the lessons learned by the author from the sessions at the La Leche League International Conference designed to help parents with sleep-deprived babies. 10-step program about sleep patterns; Importance of teaching a child how to feel safe and comfortable about falling back to sleep.