Search

Systematic model calculations are performed for the magnetization distributions and the hyperfine structure (HFS) of light and heavy ions with a mass close to A ~ 6 208 235 to test the interplay of nuclear and atomic structure. A high-precision measurement of lithium-isotope shifts (IS) for suitable transition, combined with an accurate theoretical evaluation of the mass-shift contribution in the respective transition, can be used to determine the root-mean-square (rms) nuclear-charge radius of Li isotopes, particularly of the halo nucleus [sup 11] Li. An experiment of this type is currently underway at GSI in Darmstadt and ISOLDE at CERN. However, the field-shift contributions between the different isotopes can be evaluated using the results obtained for the charge radii, thus casting, with knowledge of the ratio of the HFS constants to the magnetic moments, new light on the IS theory. For heavy charged ions the calculated n-body magnetization distributions reproduce the HFS of hydrogen-like ions well if QED contributions are suppressed. Ab-initio calculations of the HFS of [sup 209] Bi[sup 80+] were performed to analyse this surprising result. Here, the boiling of the QED vacuum gives an important contribution to the HFS, thus modifying the theoretical results of other models. The investigations performed have initiated detailed studies of the structure of lithium-like ions heavier then bismuth, to obtain predictions for the experiments on uranium, which are proposed at PHELIX-XRL. PACS Nos.: 31.15Pf, 31.30Jv, 32.10Hq, 21.10GV, 21.10FT, 21.60-n, 21.60+nNous avons fait des calculs théoriques systématiques des distributions de magnétisation et HFS (structure hyperfine) dans des ions légers et lourds, autour des masses A ~ 6 208 235 de façon à vérifier le rôle relatif des structures atomique et nucléaire. Une mesure de haute précision du déplacement isotopique (IS) de certaines transitions dans le Li peut être couplée à une évaluation théorique précise du déplacement dû à la masse dans ces transitions, afin de déterminer la racine quadratique moyenne (rms) du rayon de la charge-nucléaire des isotopes de Li, en particulier du noyau à halo [sup 11] Li. Une expérience de ce type est en cours au GSI et à ISOLDE, CERN. Cependant, la contribution due au champ entre les différents isotopes peut être évaluée en utilisant les résultats obtenus pour le rayon de la charge, ce qui, connaissant le rapport entre les constantes HFS et les moments magnétiques, jette une lumière nouvelle sur la théorie IS. Dans les ions lourds, les distributions calculées de magnétisation à n corps reproduisent bien les HFS des ions de type H, à condition de supprimer les corrections QED. Nous faisons un calcul ab initio du HFS du [sup 209] Bi[sup 80+] pour analyser ce résultat surprenant. Ici, le bouillement du vide QED contribue de façon importante au HFS, modifiant ainsi les résultats théoriques d'autres modèles. Ces résultats ont suscité des études détaillées des ions de type Li plus lourds que le bismuth, de façon à obtenir des prédictions de mesure pour les expériences proposées sur l'uranium à PHELIX-XRL. [Traduit par la Rédaction] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate in a population-based random sample of postmenopausal women the adjusted association of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) with coronary risk factors. DESIGN: Cross-sectional population-based random sample study. SUBJECTS: Ninety-eight postmenopausal women (age 50-65y). MEASUREMENTS: Visceral and subcutaneous fat areas by computer axial tomography, anthropometry, lipid profile, fasting glucose and insulin, diet, physical activity, smoking status and alcohol intake. RESULTS: Compared to women with low VAT, women with high VAT ( > 117.8 cm²) had a less favorable metabolic profile with significantly higher fasting glucose (120 ± 50 vs 98 ± 39), insulin (7.9 ± 10 vs 5 ± 8), triglycerides (172 ± 69 vs 127 ± 72), apolipoprotein B (119 ± 24 vs 98 ± 32) and significantly lower HDL-C (38 ± 10 vs 46 ± 14) values in the whole sample (n = 98). A similar profile was found in women without diabetes and hypertension (n = 39). In multiple regression models, VAT explained a portion of the variance of TG (6.2%) in the entire sample and of total cholesterol (12.4%), LDL-C (15.8%), triglycerides (16.3%), apolipoprotein B (11.6%), and fasting glucose (28.4%) in the group of non-diabetic or hypertensive women. Our VAT cut-off point of 11 7.8 cm² corresponded to a waist circumference of 84 cm. CONCLUSION: Our results in a random population-based sample of postmenopausal women confirm the association of VAT with most coronary risk factors. These associations persisted after adjusting for diet, physical activity, smoking status and alcohol intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents the magnetohydrodynamics stability of external kink modes and vertical modes in compact stellarators. Stabilization of vertical mode; Derivation of a simple stability criterion; Results of the systematic parameter study.

Studies the properties of a reference quasi-axisymmetric plasma configuration. Features of stellarators and advanced tokamaks; Evaluation of quasi-omnigeneous plasma configurations stable to ballooning modes; Economic benefits of steady-state magnetic confinement systems for magnetic fusion energy power plants.

Filamentous fungal infections are associated with high morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant patients, and prevention is warranted whenever possible. An increase in invasive aspergillosis was detected among solid organ transplant recipients in our institution during 1991–92. Rates of Aspergillus infection (18.2%) and infection or colonization (42%) were particularly high among lung transplant recipients. Epidemiologic investigation revealed cases to be both nosocomial and community-acquired, and preventative efforts were directed at both sources. Environmental controls were implemented in the hospital, and itraconazole prophylaxis was given in the early period after lung transplantation. The rate of Aspergillus infection in solid organ transplant recipients decreased from 9.4% to 1.5%, and mortality associated with this disease decreased from 8.2% to 1.8%. The rate of Aspergillus infection or colonization among lung transplant recipients decreased from 42% to 22.5%; nosocomial Aspergillus infection decreased from 9% to 3.2%. Cases of aspergillosis in lung transplant recipients were more likely to be early infections in the pre-intervention period. Early mortality in lung transplant recipients decreased from 15% to 3.2%. Two cases of dematiaceous fungal infection were detected, and no further cases occurred after environmental controls. The use of environmental measures that resulted in a decrease in airborne fungal spores, as well as antifungal prophylaxis, was associated with a decrease in aspergillosis and associated mortality in these patients. Ongoing surveillance and continuing intervention is needed for prevention of infection in high-risk solid organ transplant patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Equiatomic AlCoNi alloys with two added carbon allotropes were fabricated through powder metallurgy. • Graphite addition increased the hardness of the AlCoNi alloy 11%. • Different composition, morphology, and growth rates were observed on the oxide scale based on carbon-type addition. • CNTs benefits the formation of a protective aluminum-oxide scale instead of Ni-Co oxide. Equiatomic AlCoNi alloys with 0.1 wt% of carbon addition in different forms such as graphite and carbon nanotubes were fabricated by powder metallurgy. The effect of carbon addition on the microstructure and oxide scale formation was investigated as a function of carbon type. Evidence showed that both carbon forms addition reduced the porosity of the sintered AlCoNi alloy. A mixture of Al and Ni-Co oxide scale was formed in all samples after a heat treatment at 1000 °C for 2 h in air. After subsequent oxidation at 900 °C for 100 h, graphite induced the Ni-Co oxide growth; meanwhile, carbon nanotubes favored the Al oxide growth. The dispersion of carbon nanotubes produced the lowest growth rate of the oxide scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the authors examined memory for televised stories to gain insight into similarities and differences in story comprehension between young children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their typical peers. In particular, the authors investigated the extent to which 4- to 6-year-old children's free recall of story events is predicted by several structural properties of story events (number of causal connections, whether an event is on or off the story's causal chain, story-grammar category, and position in the story's hierarchical structure), whether differences exist between children with ADHD and nonreferred comparison children in their sensitivity to structural features of stories, and whether age differences in sensitivity to structural features are similar for both groups. For both groups, recall of story events was predicted by all four structural properties, but the effects of the two causal properties was stronger for comparison children than for children with ADHD. Further examination revealed that this difference was observed only when a competing activity was available during television viewing. These findings indicate that both groups of preschool children are able to benefit from causal structure when recalling television stories, but that children with ADHD lose this benefit when attention is divided. Consistent with previous findings for nonreferred children (P. W. van den Broek, E. P. Lorch, & R. Thurlow, 1996), in both diagnostic groups the effects of causal properties increased across age, and older children were more likely to include causally important protagonists' goals in their recalls than younger children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wealth of research is available examining children's story comprehension. However, little attention has been directed toward understanding the story comprehension of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The present paper attempts to integrate the developmental literature on children's story comprehension with the little that is known about the story comprehension processes of children with ADHD. This review is guided by a network model of story representation that emphasizes the structure of causal and enabling relations between story events. Examination of the available studies indicates that children with ADHD lag behind their peers in their understanding of causal relations, and that their attentional problems may contribute to difficulties in understanding factual information in the preschool years and causally related information in the elementary years. Some evidence also is presented suggesting that children with ADHD are less effective in taking advantage of story structure features in guiding their recall of story events. Suggestions for future research are offered that would elaborate our knowledge of the developmental progression in the processing of complex information by children with ADHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protective use of plasma powder from cattle and swine against experimentally induced neonatal E. coli diarrhoea in colostrum-deprived calves was examined. Diarrhoea was induced with a strain expressing F5+ fimbriae and a strain expressing F17+ fimbriae. In all groups supplemented with bovine plasma powder, diarrhoea and fever were less severe than in the control groups. For the groups infected with the F5+ E. coli strain, a reduction in excretion of the challenge strain by 2–4 orders of magnitude and by 1–2 orders of magnitude was seen when supplemented with bovine plasma powder at a dose of 25 g/l milk and 10 g/l milk, respectively. The bovine plasma powder showed also beneficial effects in the F17+ infected groups. No mortality, no septicaemia and no severe clinical signs were observed. Concerning the excretion of the E. coli F17+ strain in the faeces, no significant difference with the control group was found. Swine plasma powder showed little beneficial effect on E. coli diarrhoea in calves in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of multiple childhood sexual assaults on the believability of a repressed memory of the assault was assessed using mock jurors. Participants read a fictional civil trial summary about a child sexual assault case presented in one of three reporting conditions: (a) immediate condition-the alleged victim testified immediately after the assault(s); (b) repressed condition-the alleged victim reported the assault(s) 20 years later, after remembering it/them for the first time; or (c) no-repressed condition-the alleged victim reported the assault(s) 20 years later, but the memory of the assault(s) had been present for those years. The number of assaults was either one or 30. The results showed that for all reporting conditions 30 alleged assaults led to relatively more decisions for the plaintiff than the defendant, and greater believability of the plaintiff. The increases in decisions rendered and believability were also generally true for the immediate condition compared to when there was a delay in reporting. The results are discussed in terms of mock jurors' perceptions of child sexual assault, both those reported immediately and those reported after many years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a case study of the intragastric migration of laparoscopic adjustable gastric band for obesity treatment done in a middle-aged woman. Vital signs of the patient; History of the gastric band inclusion; Drawbacks to the procedure.

Recent progress in the theoretical understanding and design of compact stellarators is described. Hybrid devices, which depart from canonical stellarators by deriving benefits from the bootstrap current which flows at finite beta, comprise a class of low aspect ratio A<4 stellarators. They possess external kink stability (at moderate beta) in the absence of a conducting wall, possible immunity to disruptions through external control of the transform and magnetic shear, and they achieve volume-averaged ballooning beta limits (4%-6%) similar to those in tokamaks. In addition, bootstrap currents can reduce the effects of magnetic islands (self-healing effect) and lead to simpler stellarator coils by reducing the required external transform. Powerful physics and coil optimization codes have been developed and integrated to design experiments aimed at exploring compact stellarators. The physics basis for designing the national compact stellarator will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of forest soil ecology is necessary to assess vulnerability to disturbances, such as wildfires, and improve its microbial diversity and functional value. Soil microbiota play an important role in forest soil processes and are a key driver of postfire recovery, but they are very vulnerable to heat. According to future scenarios for climate and land-use change, fire regimes will undergo transformations in semiarid terrestrial ecosystems, mainly in the Mediterranean Basin. To develop tools for forest management in fire-prone areas, i.e., fire prevention, we assessed the impact of prescribed burnings on soil microorganisms in Mediterranean mixed pine forests. We hypothesised that low severity fire burns would not influence the functional diversity of soil microorganisms, although the burning season could influence that response due to seasonal variations in its vulnerability. We used the Biolog EcoPlate System to record soil biological indicators and assess the effect of the prescribed burning season (early or late season) on bacterial communities, including the soil–plant interphase. The soil microbiome response differed significantly according to vegetation coverage but prescribed burning season was not directly related. Burning increased the proportions of soil organic matter and soil organic carbon, and also promoted cation-exchange capacity and total phosphorus, which were higher following spring burns. Microbial richness and the Shannon–Weaver diversity index both showed a positive correlation with vegetation cover. However, microbial richness was triggered after burning uncovered patches of vegetation. We also noted differences in the usage pattern for the six substrate groups defined in our study: the use of carboxylic acids, amino acids and carbohydrates was higher in unburned plots and those subject to late burns, whereas amino acids did not predominate in early burn plots. Image 1 • Microbial soil vulnerability is key for assessing forest fire ecology. • Biological soil indicators were related to vegetation and burning season. • Early season burning promoted soil organic matter, carbon and phosphorus. • Patterns of use of carbon groups were related to vegetation and burning season. • The community-level physiological profile was improved after burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Current study aimed to determine possible differences in plasma leptin levels during the prepuberal period and their relationship with the onset of puberty in gilts of obese thrifty genotype (Iberian breed) and lean genotype (Large White×Landrace commercial crosses) reared under similar conditions. Plasma leptin concentration increased linearly during the 7weeks prior to the day of puberty attainment in both genotypes (P <0.005, r =0.707 for LW×L and P <0.0005, r =0.874 for Iberian gilts). However, leptin levels in the Iberian gilts was higher from the first sample of the experimental period, with females having 16weeks-old (2.7±0.3 vs 1.7±0.2ng/ml in LW×L; P <0.001), to the onset of puberty (8.5±0.7 vs 2.8±0.3ng/ml in LW×L; P <0.005). Thus, the current study reinforces previous data on changes in around puberty and evidences, for the first time, profound differences in prepuberal plasma leptin levels between gilts of obese (Iberian) and lean genotypes (LW×L). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Iberian pig is the most abundant Mediterranean swine. The lack of knowledge of the reproductive physiology of Mediterranean genotypes, with predisposition to obesity, led us to evaluate the influence of body condition and metabolic status at weaning on the resumption of follicular growth and the appearance of post-weaning oestrus. Females failing to display post-weaning oestrus showed a high decrease in backfat mass during lactation; backfat depth at weaning was therefore lower than in sows becoming in oestrus. Females not bearing oestrus behaviour showed lower plasma leptin levels and higher ghrelin concentrations at weaning. Moreover, these sows evidenced dyslipidemic profile (increased triglyceridemia and cholesterolemia) and mobilization of fat reserves. Hence, changes in metabolic regulation of Iberian pigs may originate large effects on the resumption of ovulatory activity after weaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: At present in the province of Salamanca, there is no outpatient program focused on dual pathology. There is a perceived need of attention to those patients who present a serious mental disorder and a substance use disorder. Objectives: In accordance with the recommendations of the scientific evidence of recent years, we propose the creation of a specific healthcare resource within the framework of the University of Salamanca Health Complex. Methods: The dual pathology outpatient program sits (image 1) on the second level of the assistance system and follows the indications of the IV Mental Health Plan of the Regional Ministry of Health. It is intended to be a bridge between the two usual lines of assistance (image 2): mental health network and drug dependence network. It will offer a multidisciplinary and integrated approach from a biopsychosocial perspective. It will focus on diagnosis, differential diagnosis, psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic approach, nursing care and psychometry. In addition, the dual pathology outpatient program aims to be a training area for service professionals and the basis for promoting research activity focused on dual pathology. A previous training and coordination program has been carried out with the different resources of both networks. A pilot project is proposed, building a therapeutic team consisting of a psychiatrist, two clinical psychologists, two nurses, a social worker and two social educators. Results: The first clinical results are presented. Conclusions: This new program results from the effort to improve care for patients with dual pathology. More experience in this area is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new kinetic model for noise analysis is proposed. • A new concept of dynamic eigenvalue adapted to noise phenomena is introduced. • Higher order quadrature formulas to compute fission-delayed integrals are used. A 2-D noise model is implemented in the deterministic reactor code APOLLO3® to simulate a periodic oscillation of a structural component. The Two/Three Dimensional Transport (TDT) solver, using the Method of Characteristics, is adopted for the calculation of the case studies, constituted by a moving detector and control-rod bundle. The periodic movement is built by properly linking the geometries corresponding to the temporal positions. The calculation is entirely performed in the real time domain, without resorting to the traditional frequency approach. A specifically defined dynamic eigenvalue is used to renormalize in average the reactivity over a period. The algorithm is accelerated by the DP N synthetic method. For each cell of the domain, the time values of fission rates are analysed to determine the noise extent. Moreover we propose a systematic approach to the definition of the macroscopic cross sections to be used in dynamical calculations starting from library data. As an aside of our work we have found that even in static calculation this approach can produce significant changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that eccentric contraction (EC) is associated with increases in serially arranged sarcomeres (sarcomerogenesis), while concentric contraction (CC) has been associated with serial sarcomeres decrease. Sarcomerogenesis following EC is thought to be a protective muscle adaptation, preventing muscle injury in future eccentric exercise bouts (repeated bout effect). However, the mechanisms underlying sarcomerogenesis in EC remain unknown, and the sarcomerogenic responses observed in response to EC and CC are contradictory. We measured sarcomere length, sarcomere length uniformity, serial sarcomere number, and fascicle length in gastrocnemius medialis, tibialis anterior, vastus medialis and vastus lateralis in sedentary (SED) mice, and in mice following protocols of moderate uphill (TRU) and downhill (TRD) training and uphill (OTU) and downhill (OTD) overtraining. We found pain sensitivity after the first bout of EC exercise on TRD and OTD followed by a normalized sensory response after four weeks of training, indicating a repeated bout effect. However, these findings were not associated with sarcomerogenesis, as serial sarcomere numbers did not increase in TRD and OTD skeletal muscle samples compared to controls (SED). However, we found a decrease in serial sarcomere number in VL and TA in OTU group mice, which was associated with a decrease in fascicle length and no change of sarcomere length at the tested joint configuration. We conclude that excessive concentric muscle contraction (OTU group mice), leads to a decrease in serial sarcomere number, while moderate or excessive eccentric training, did not result in sarcomerogenesis, as reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pigmentary keratitis (PK) is commonly recognised in Pugs, but its aetiology is not completely understood. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated features of PK in Pugs in the United Kingdom (UK). Results: A total of 210 Pugs (420 eyes) were recruited from 12 UK dog shows and social events. The median age of Pugs recruited was 2.50 years (range 0.25–16.25 years). Pigmentary keratitis was detected in 369/420 (87.8%) eyes and in at least one eye 193/210 (91.9%) Pugs, of which 17/193 (8.8%) were affected unilaterally and 176/193 (91.2%) bilaterally. Pigmentary keratitis was typically mild to moderate (46.3 and 49.9% of eyes, respectively). Detection of PK was significantly associated with increased age (P = 0.002) and the presence of medial entropion of the lower eyelid (MELE) (P = 0.001). Severity of PK was significantly associated with the grade of MELE (P < 0.001). There was also a correlation between the presence of limbal pigment and PK (P = 0.036) that warrants further study. Conclusions: This study estimated a high disease prevalence of PK in UK Pugs, and demonstrated significant associations with age and the presence of MELE. These associations, which have not been previously reported, offer an insight into the underlying pathophysiology of this condition in Pugs. The results encourage further population research, such as prospective longitudinal studies. These findings also support the development of clinical and breeding strategies based on the reduction of MELE and, possibly, limbal pigment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Despite the use of well-accepted protocols for donor maintenance, the severe electrolytic disorders are not infrequent with deleterious consequences to the organs. The objective of our survey was to determine the incidence of episodes of electrolyte disorders among brain-dead patients (despite of rigid protocols of maintenance) and the rate of anaerobic metabolism in these patients (suggestive of an occult systemic hypoperfusion). The study group of 50 brain-dead patients underwent therapy to maintain normal arterial pressure, urine output, and body temperature. Standard monitoring for brain-dead patients was followed, except for a frequent evaluation of electrolytes, including glucose, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, osmolality, base excess, and lactate plasma levels. Our results demonstrate that with frequent determinations of electrolytes, despite following strict protocols of maintenance, there was a high incidence of hyperglycemia, hypophosphotemia, hypokaemia, and hyperosmolality. Interesting findings were the high incidence of elevated lactate, and the relationship between lactate levels and bases deficit as well as hypernatremia. It can be concluded that, even following rigid protocols, the maintenance of brain-dead patients demands a close evaluation of electrolyte levels. Our results also suggest that the inclusion in the monitoring protocol of anerobic metabolism data including lactate levels can help to avoid occult ischemia of organs, and consequently improve their quality for transplantation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mucinous eccrine nevus has been described as a variant of eccrine nevus. Only one instance of this variant, diagnosed in a 47-year-old woman, has been reported. We report a 2-year-old girl who had two 1 cm, asymptomatic, brownish nodules. Histologic analysis revealed a dermal lobulated proliferation of eccrine structures surrounded by a prominent mucinous stroma. This is thus, to the best of our knowledge, the first case of this extremely rare entity in a child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The constant use of norecyclable material throughout the last century has become a huge pollution problem. Consequently, the development of biocompatible and biodegradable material plays an important role nowadays in this context. In order to contribute to this aim, this article is concerned with the use of photoacoustic methodologies to investigate the diffusion coefficient of CO[SUB2] and water vapors for poly-3-hydroxy octanoate which is a biodegradable and biocompatible material. In addition, a second methodology based on the paramagnetic properties of O[SUB2] molecules was also applied to investigate the diffusion coefficient of O[SUB2]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The change from non-molecular to nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) is known to increase the detection of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI); however, the impact on stool rejection policies in clinical laboratories is unclear. The current guidelines have reinforced the importance of respecting strict conditions for performing tests on stool samples for CDI diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to estimate whether the implementation of molecular tests has resulted in changes in stool rejection policies between clinical laboratories that introduced NAATs and those that did not. Results: A survey was conducted to evaluate the change in the number of stool samples rejected and the rejection criteria among 12 hospital laboratories in southwestern France before and after the switch from non-molecular tests to NAATs using retrospective data from June 1 till September 30, 2013 and the same period 2014. Four laboratories introduced NAATs as a second or third step in the process. A total of 1378 and 1297 stools samples were collected in 2013 and 2014, respectively. The mean number of rejected stool samples significantly increased (p < 0.001, Chi square test), with a total of 99 (7.1%) and 147 (11.3%) specimens rejected in 2013 and 2014, respectively. Notably, these laboratories had more stringent criteria and were no longer testing the stool samples of patients with CDI-positive results within 7 days. In contrast, there was a significant decrease in the rate of rejected stool samples (p < 0.001, Chi square test) in the five laboratories that did not adopt NAATs and a less stringent stool rejection policy. Conclusion: Nucleic acid amplification test implementation improved compliance with recommended stool rejection policies. Laboratories should follow the recommended laboratory algorithm for the CDI diagnosis combined with the correct stool rejection policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Les infections bactériémiques à staphylococcus aureus résistant à la méticilline reste un problème majeur malgré la diminution de l’incidence de ces dernières années. La référence du traitement reste la vancomycine malgré une bactéricidie lente et des difficultés à atteindre la cible lorsque les CMIs sont élevées. Les nouveaux anti-SARM, ceftobiprole et ceftaroline, présentent des caractéristiques PK/PD et des profils de tolérance des céphalosporines intra-veineuses. Nous avons voulu vérifier la sensibilité in-vitro de ces nouveaux anti-SARM sur des souches issues de bactériémies et d’en observer l’évolution entre 2007 et 2015. Matériels et méthodes Les souches de SARM isolées d’hémocultures de patients hospitalisés dans des hôpitaux non universitaires français ont été recueillies au cours des mois de novembre 2007 et 2015, dans le cadre de l’observatoire des résistances du COL-BVH. Les souches ont été dédoublonnées selon les recommandations de l’ONERBA. L’identification des souches a été contrôlée par spectrométrie de masse et la résistance à la méticilline par la recherche du gène mecA . Les CMI des antibiotiques suivants : ceftobiprole, ceftaroline, linézolide, daptomycine, tigécycline, vancomycine et teicoplanine ont été mesurées par la méthode des E-tests sur gélose Muller-Hinton. Les lectures ont été faites en double aveugle par deux opérateurs différents. Deux souches de contrôle de qualité ATCC ont été testées afin de valider les séries. Résultats Les résultats des CMI 50 et 90 , en mg/L (et les dispersions) étaient en 2007 respectivement pour la ceftobiprole de 0,75 et 1,50 (0,19–1,50) ; la ceftaroline 0,50 et 0,75 (0,09–1,00) ; le linézolide 1,00 et 1,50 (0,50–2,00) ; la daptomycine 0,32 et 0,50 (0,13–0,75) ; la tigécycline 0,09 et 0,19 (0,05–0,75) ; la vancomycine 0,50 et 1,00 (0,19–1,50) ; la teicoplanine 0,25 et 0,88 (0,13–1,50). Pour les souches de 2015, les CMI 50 et 90 (et les dispersions) étaient respectivement pour la ceftobiprole de 0,50 et 0,75 (0,25–1,00) ; la ceftaroline 0,38 et 0,50 (0,19–0,75) ; le linézolide 0,75 et 1,05 (0,50–1,50) ; la daptomycine 0,19 et 0,38 (0,13–0,38) ; la tigécycline 0,06 et 0,06 (0,03–0,13) ; la vancomycine 0,50 et 0,75 (0,38–0,75) ; la teicoplanine 0,25 et 0,53 (0,09–0,80). Toutes les souches ont été catégorisées sensibles aux antibiotiques testés sauf une souche de SARM résistante à la tigécycline en 2007. Conclusion Les anciens et nouveaux anti-SARM restent très actifs entre 2007 et 2015, justifiant l’intérêt potentiel de ces derniers. Il n’y a pas d’augmentation du niveau de leur résistance entre les deux périodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Surgical abscess enolization for complex mitroaortic endocarditis treatment in a high risk patient" by I. Moriones, J. Berjon, J. Fernandez, R. Sanchez, L. Jimenez and F. Gomez is presented.

Introduction Behavioural, psychological and cognitive disturbance have been associated with hypothyroidism, even it has been suggested that this symptoms may remain despite adequate replacement therapy with thyroxine. Objective To describe prevalence, sociodemographics and clinical features of patients with hypothyroidism in an acute psychiatric unit. Aims To know about the relation between hypothyroidism and psychiatric symptoms. Methods Data base collection of all patients admitted between 2010 and 2014 in the acute unit of our psychiatric hospital in Barcelona, was analyzed using SPSS program. Results In all 3.1% of the 4536 total patients had hypothyroidism. Among them, 46% were duplicate cases. Mean age was 53 ± 14.27 years. A total of 82.7% were woman. Patients having a TSH lower than 0.30 were 12%, TSH normal were 60.2%, TSH higher than 5 were 27.8%. Most frequent Levothyroxine dosage was: 75 μg (22.1%), 100 μg (19%), 25 μg (12.5%) and 125 μg (12.5%). Diagnosis more frequently associated with hypothyroidism was: Bipolar (26.5%), Schizophrenia (20%), Depression (15.1%), Unspecified psychosis (10%), Personality disorder (10%), Schizoaffective disorder (7.2%), Paranoia 4.3%. Conclusion Most of patients were stable of thyroid condition when had been admitted to our hospital. Hypothyroidism could be a relapse factor, even when treatment is adequate. Affective disorders are more frequently related with hypothyroidism (lithium has to be consider a confounding factor). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Several studies have suggested variations in the prevalence of schizophrenia spectrum disorders diagnosis across time. This could be due to a change in diagnostic practice motivated either for changes in DSM criteria as for local culture factors. The aim of this study is to explore the evolution of the schizophrenia spectrum disorders. We hypothesize that we would observe a transference from the schizophrenia diagnosis to psychosis not otherwise specified. Methods A retrospective review of all psychiatric discharges in acute unit in the INAD of Parc de Salut Mar of Barcelona, between 2002 and 2014 was performed, relating each discharge to its axis I psychiatric diagnostic. An ANOVA analysis was used to calculate the differences between the months and the frequency of the diagnosis. Conclusion We have not been able to observe any transference between diagnoses across years. We observe a decrease of the proportion of schizophrenic spectrum disorders in its prevalence at discharge from 2012 to 2014. The proportion of not otherwise specified psychosis remains quite constant as a third of the schizophrenia diagnoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personality dimensions related with drug use are novelty seeking, impulsivity and harm avoidance. Studies predicting drug of choice over personality variables are controversial. Objective To describe personality profile of drug users in relation to substance of choice. Aims To know personality dimension differences according to drug used. Methods Cloninger's TCI-R was administered to 218 patients in a dual diagnosis unit. SPSS was applied. Results Of the patients, 33.94% had personality disorder. Principal substances used were alcohol, cocaine and cannabis. Most of drug users had normal scores in each dimension. No high scores were found in reward dependence, self-directedness and cooperativeness with any drug. High scores were observed for novelty seeking in 42.9% of timulants users; for arm avoidance in a quarter of cocaine, alcohol and methadone users and for persistence in 18.2% of hypnotics users. Low scores were observed for reward dependence in 45% of heroine and hypnotics users; for persistence in 50% of methadone and 32% of cocaine users; for self-directedness in most of types of drug users and for cooperativeness in up to 50% in heroine, hypnotics, stimulants and cocaine users. Statistical significant differences were observed for cocaine use and high novelty seeking and low cooperation; for non cannabis use and high harm avoidance; for non anfetamine use and low scores in reward dependence; for opiate use and low self-directedness. Conclusions Most of patients had normal scores in the different dimensions. Presence of comorbid personality disorder led us to consider the results with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The integrated care in dual diagnosis units involves selecting pharmacological treatment strategies for both substance use disorder and the non-addictive psychiatric disorder. It is recommended to choose drugs with a favorable balance between efficacy/tolerability, an adequate side effects profile and the minimal drug interactions. Objectives and aims To evaluate the tolerability and side effects after first administration-first dose of an extended-release injectable suspension of aripiprazole in a group of patients admitted to an acute dual diagnosis unit. Methods The study included a series of patients admitted in our unit from May to August 2015 that received the first dose of the aripiprazole preparation (400 mg). Evaluations included different scales for side effects (SAS, ESRS, UKU) and the clinical global impression scale (CGI). Results A total of 9 patients were included and evaluated (all men, mean age: 39-years-old). Diagnoses were: bipolar disorder (5/9), schizophrenia (2/9), schizoaffective disorder (1/9) and delusional disorder (1/9) with concomitant substance use disorder (6 cannabis, 2 alcohol, 1 cocaine). All of them without outpatient control and treatment at admission. The results of the clinical scales conclude that none of them had significant side effects, including extrapyramidal, with an improvement in the ICG scale. Conclusion Tolerability of extended-release injectable suspension of aripiprazole was good in all cases. In the future, new cases should be included to extend the sample and to evaluate other aspects such as the craving for substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline Sr3MnMo2O9 (I) and Ba3MnMo2O9 (II) double perovskites with Mo5+ valence states are prepared by thermal treatment of gels produced from stoichiometric amounts of Sr(NO3)2 or Ba(NO3)2, MnCO3, and (NH4)6Mo7O24 dissolved in citric acid (5% H2/N2 reducing atmosphere, 1200 °C, 12 h). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Significance of atrial fibrillation in octogenarian patients with acute myocardial infarction," by J. Galcera-Tomas and colleagues is presented.

Objective: Leukocytes arriving to choriodecidua during labor are capable to secrete cytokines and collagenases that may play a role in extracellular matrix degradation leading to the rupture of amniochorion. The aim of this work was to study the role of amniochorion in the active recruitment of leukocytes through production of specific chemokines during labor. Methods: Amniochorion explants were obtained from women at term with spontaneous labor ( n = 4) and subjected to cesarean section without labor ( n = 4). Explant cultures were carried out during 24 hr and a homogenate including the culture media was made after this period. Cell free extracts were tested in Boyden chambers for chemotaxis using leukocytes from maternal blood obtained from women with ( n = 2) and without labor ( n = 2). Attracted cells were analyzed by flow cytometry for count and immunophenotype. Chemokines were identified in the extracts using a commercial chemiarray. Results: All tested amniochorion extracts induced chemotaxis for leukocytes; however, those from labor tissues induced a higher chemotactic activity than the correspondent non-in-labor tissues ( P = 0.003). Chemotactic effect was higher over leukocytes from labor women ( P = 0.001). More than 80% of the attracted cells were polymorphonuclear cells in all cases. IL-8 was the main chemokine found in all extracts; however its concentration was increased in extracts from labor. Conclusions: Fetal membranes induced chemotaxis for leukocytes and this condition is enhanced by the presence of labor. Amniochorion under active labor secretes IL-8 which induces a preferential chemotaxis for polymorphonuclears. Infiltration of these cells in choriodecidua during labor may play a role in the amniochorion degradation associated to rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear charge radii of 6, 7, 8, 9Li have recently been measured at the GSI on-line mass separator using high-resolution resonance ionization mass spectroscopy. We give a brief description of the experimental method. The results for the charge radii are compared with different theoretical predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]