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Southern African grasslands with a rich flora, shaped by fire, grazing, climate and geology, as well as playing a role in carbon sequestration, are becoming more important in conservation. Fire is often used as a management tool to improve vegetation and to protect property against uncontrolled fire. We therefore attempt to determine the effect consecutive burning has on vegetation. Paired plots along firebreaks were used to collect vegetation data using the Braun-Blanquet cover abundance scale. Soil samples were also collected to determine the impact of fire on below-ground nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) stocks and ratios. The results indicate that there is no difference between the plant communities of the firebreaks and the adjacent grassland; however, there are certain species that are favoured by firebreaks and others by the adjacent grassland. There is also no difference in diversity between the firebreaks and adjacent grassland areas. Carbon and nitrogen stocks as well as C:N ratios did not differ significantly between the firebreaks and the adjacent grassland plots although trends indicate a decline in both C and N with repeated burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the incorporation of an ensemble of G centers in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) microrings using ion implantation and conventional nanofabrication. The coupling between the emitters and the resonant modes of the microrings is studied using continuous-wave and time-resolved microphotoluminescence (PL) experiments. We observe the resonant modes of the microrings on PL spectra, on the wide spectral range that is covered by G center emission. By finely tuning the size of the microrings, we match their zero-phonon line at 1278 nm with a resonant mode of quality factor around 3000 and volume 7.2 (λ/n)3. The zero-phonon line intensity is enhanced by a factor of 5, both in continuous-wave and time-resolved measurements. This is attributed to the Purcell enhancement of zero-phonon spontaneous emission into the resonant mode and quantitatively understood considering the distribution of the G center dipoles. Despite the enhancement of the zero-phonon emission, we do not observe any sizeable decrease in the average lifetime of the G centers, which points at a low radiative yield (<10%). We reveal the detrimental impact of parasitic defects in heavily implanted silicon and discuss the perspectives for quantum electrodynamics experiments with individual color centers in lightly implanted SOI rings. Our results provide key information for the development of deterministic single-photon sources for integrated quantum photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU Official Controls Regulation (EU) 2017/625 (OCR) requires a risk-based monitoring program for veterinary drug residues in animal products. The aim of this research was to rank various substances in animal products as input for such a Multi-Annual National Control Plan (MANCP). Previously derived decision trees were used to prioritize a total of 438 substances and 5228 substance-product combinations. The prioritization incorporated information on non-compliances, use of veterinary drugs and potential human health effects. Overall, the majority of the unauthorised substances (63%) were classified as high priority, although there are distinct differences between substance groups. For the authorised substances, around 27% were classified as low priority, 17% as medium priority and 12% as high priority. For the remaining substances, there was a lack of data resulting in the recommendation to start a survey. The evaluation revealed that not all relevant substance-product combinations are currently included in the MANCP and data or information on (potential) use is often difficult to retrieve. Overall, the decision trees provided a successful tool to classify substances in low, medium and high priority to include in the MANCP and the approach could be applied by other EU MS as input to their risk-based monitoring programs. • Decision trees were used to prioritize veterinary drug residues in animal products. • Substances were classified as low, medium and high priority for monitoring. • 63% of unauthorised and 12% of authorised substances obtained a high priority. • Results can be used to establish risk-based monitoring programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourteen years ago, optical lattices and holographic tweezers were considered as a revolution, allowing for trapping and manipulating multiple particles at the same time using laser light. Since then, near-field optical forces have aroused tremendous interest as they enable efficient trapping of a wide range of objects, from living cells to atoms, in integrated devices. Yet, handling at will multiple objects using a guided light beam remains a challenging task for current on-chip optical trapping techniques. We demonstrate here on-chip optical trapping of dielectric microbeads and bacteria using one-dimensional optical lattices created by near-field mode beating along a few-mode silicon nanophotonic waveguide. This approach allows not only for trapping large numbers of particles in periodic trap arrays with various geometries, but also for manipulating them via diverse transport and repositioning techniques. Near-field mode-beating optical lattices may be readily implemented in lab-on-a-chip devices, addressing numerous scientific fields ranging from bio-analysis to nanoparticle processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photonic crystals and microcavities act as on-chip nano-optical tweezers for identification and manipulation of biological objects. Until now, optical trapping of virus and bacteria has been achieved and their presence in the vicinity of the optical resonator is deduced by the shift in the resonant wavelength. Here, we show trapping and identification of bacteria through a properly tuned silicon on insulator microcavity. Through the spatial and temporal observations of bacteria–cavity interaction, the optical identification of three different kinds of bacteria is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity, which affects 600 million adults worldwide, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and insulin resistance. Current therapies for these metabolic disorders include weight management by lifestyle intervention or bariatric surgery and pharmacological treatment with the aim of regulating blood glucose. Probably because of their short-term effectiveness, these therapies have not been able to stop the rapidly rising prevalence of T2D over the past decades, highlighting an urgent need to develop new therapeutic strategies. The role of immune cells, such as macrophages, in insulin resistance has been extensively studied. Major advances have been made to elucidate the role of adipose tissue macrophages in these pathogeneses. Recently, anti-inflammatory drugs have been suggested as an alternative treatment for T2D, and clinical trials of these agents are currently ongoing. In addition, results of previous clinical trials using antibodies against inflammatory cytokines, which showed modest effects, are now being rigorously re-evaluated. However, it is still unclear how liver macrophages [termed Kupffer cells (KCs)], which constitute the major source of macrophages in the body, contribute to the development of insulin resistance. In this review, we will discuss the present understanding of the role of liver immune cells in the development of insulin resistance. We will particularly focus on KCs, which could represent an attractive target for the treatment of metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives We investigated whether metformin can improve endothelial function and decrease inflammatory activity, and thereby decrease the risk of atherothrombotic disease. Subjects and design A randomized, placebo-controlled trial with a follow-up period of 4.3 years set in the outpatient clinics of three nonacademic hospitals (Hoogeveen, Meppel and Coevorden Hospitals, the Netherlands). A total of 390 patients with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin were included. Either metformin 850 mg or placebo (one to three times daily) was added to insulin therapy. Urinary albumin excretion and plasma levels of von Willebrand factor ( vWf), soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 ( sVCAM-1), soluble E-selectin ( sE-selectin), tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), C-reactive protein (CRP) and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 ( sICAM-1) were measured at baseline and after 4, 17, 30, 43 and 52 months. Results Metformin significantly reduced levels of vWF, sVCAM-1, t-PA, PAI-1, CRP and sICAM-1, which, except for CRP, remained significant after adjustment for baseline differences in age, sex, smoking and severity of previous cardiovascular (CV) disease. No effects on urinary albumin excretion or sE-selectin were observed. The improvements in vWf and sVCAM-1 statistically explained about 34% of the reduction in the risk of CV morbidity and mortality associated with metformin treatment in this study. Conclusions Metformin is associated with improvement in some ( vWF and sVCAM-1) but not all markers of endothelial function, which may explain why it is associated with a decreased risk of CV disease in type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-(ERK)-1/2 by cytokines in adipocytes is involved in the alterations of adipose tissue functions participating in insulin resistance. This study aims at identifying proteins regulating ERK1/2 activity, specifically in response to inflammatory cytokines, to provide new insights into mechanisms leading to abnormal adipose tissue function.Research Design and Methods: Kinase activities were inhibited with pharmacological inhibitors or siRNA. Lipolysis was monitored through glycerol production. Gene expression in adipocytes and adipose tissue of obese mice and subjects was measured by real-time PCR.Results: IkappaB kinase-(IKK)-beta inhibition prevented mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase kinase (MEK)/ERK1/2 activation in response to interleukin (IL)-1beta and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha but not insulin in 3T3-L1 and human adipocytes, suggesting that IKKbeta regulated a MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) involved in ERK1/2 activation induced by inflammatory cytokines. We show that the MAP3K8 called Tpl2 was expressed in adipocytes and that IL-1beta and TNF-alpha activated Tpl2 and regulated its expression through an IKKbeta pathway. Pharmacological inhibition or silencing of Tpl2 prevented MEK/ERK1/2 activation by these cytokines but not by insulin, demonstrating its involvement in ERK1/2 activation specifically in response to inflammatory stimuli. Importantly, Tpl2 was implicated in cytokine-induced lipolysis and in insulin receptor substrate-1 serine phosphorylation. Tpl2 mRNA expression was upregulated in adipose tissue of obese mice and patients and correlated with TNF-alpha expression.Conclusions: Tpl2 is selectively involved in inflammatory cytokine-induced ERK1/2 activation in adipocytes and is implicated in their deleterious effects on adipocyte functions. The deregulated expression of Tpl2 in adipose tissue suggests that Tpl2 may be a new actor in adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Little is known about the role of p38MAPK in human adipocyte differentiation. Here we showed that p38MAPK activity increases during human preadipocytes differentiation. Pharmacological inhibition of p38MAPK during adipocyte differentiation of primary human preadipocytes markedly reduced triglycerides accumulation and adipocyte markers expression. Cell cycle arrest or proliferation was not affected by p38MAPK inhibition. Although induction of C/EBPβ was not altered by the p38MAPK inhibitor, its phosphorylation on Threonine188 was decreased as well as PPARγ expression. These results indicate that p38MAPK plays a positive role in human adipogenesis through regulation of C/EBPβ and PPARγ factors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

de Jager J, Kooy A, Lehert Ph, Bets D, Wulffelé MG, Teerlink T, Scheffer PG, Schalkwijk CG, Donker AJM, Stehouwer CDA (Bethesda General Hospital Hoogeveen, Hoogeveen, The Netherlands; University of Mons, Belgium; E. Merck Nederland B.V. Amsterdam; VU University Medical Centre, and Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Amsterdam; and University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht; The Netherlands). Effects of short-term treatment with metformin on markers of endothelial function and inflammatory activity in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.J Intern Med2005;257:100–109.The UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) showed that treatment with metformin decreases macrovascular morbidity and mortality independent of glycaemic control. We hypothesized that metformin may achieve this by improving endothelial function and chronic, low-grade inflammation. Data on this issue are scarce and we therefore tested, in the setting of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, whether metformin can affect endothelial function and low-grade inflammation.The Hyperinsulinaemia the Outcome of its Metabolic Effects (HOME) trial is a double-blind trial, in which all patients were randomized to receive either metformin or placebo in addition to insulin therapy. At the beginning and the end of a 16-week treatment period fasting blood samples were drawn and a physical examination was carried out.The trial was conducted in the outpatient clinics of three nonacademic hospitals (Hoogeveen, Meppel and Coevorden; the Netherlands).Patients were included if they were between 30 and 80 years of age; had received a diagnosis of diabetes after the age of 25; had never had an episode of ketoacidosis; and their blood glucose-lowering treatment previously consisted of oral agents but now only consisted of either insulin (n = 345) or insulin and metformin (n = 45). We excluded pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant, patients with a Cockroft-Gault-estimated creatinine clearance<50 mL min−1, or low plasma cholinesterase (reference value<3.5 units L−1), patients with congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association class III/IV), or patients with other serious medical or psychiatric disease. A total of 745 eligible patients were approached; 390 gave informed consent and were randomized (196 metformin, 194 placebo). About 353 patients completed 16 weeks of treatment (171 metformin, 182 placebo).The HOME trial was designed to study the metabolic and cardiovascular effects of metformin during a follow-up of 4 years. Presented here are the results of an interim analysis after 16 weeks of treatment.When compared with placebo, metformin treatment was associated with an increase in urinary albumin excretion of 21% (−1 to +48;P = 0.06); a decrease in plasma von Willebrand factor of 6% (−10 to−2;P = 0.0007); a decrease in soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 of 4% (−7 to−2;P = 0.0002); a decrease in soluble E-selectin of 6% (−10 to−2;P = 0.008); a decrease in tissue-type plasminogen activator of 16% (−20 to−12;P < 0.0001); and a decrease in plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 of 20% (−27 to−10;P = 0.0001). These changes could not be explained by metformin-associated changes in glycaemic control, body weight or insulin dose. Markers of inflammation, i.e. C-reactive protein and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, did not change with metformin treatment.In patients with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin, metformin treatment was associated with improvement of endothelial function, which was largely unrelated to changes in glycaemic control, but not with improvement of chronic, low-grade inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online-Therapy: Effectiveness and Peculiarities of the Therapeutic Relationship In the present article, online therapy is defined as ongoing, asynchronous, interactive and text-based communication between patient and therapist aimed at a behavioural-based improvement of health. This definition corresponds to the most widely used mode of Internet-based psychological interventions. After a short overview of controlled empirical studies of internet-based interventions, unique features and application modalities are presented. Unique aspects of the therapeutic relationship that are of special interest and potential advantages of the online therapy are considered. Finally, limits and challenges of online therapy are discussed. Copyright © 2004 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of Panic Disorder by Internet: A Case Study A treatment protocol for panic disorder with agoraphobia by Internet is described and illustrated with a case study. Treatment components are Awareness, Cognitive restructuring, Interoceptive Exposure, Exposure in vivo and Relapse prevention. All treatment components are administered by e-mail. This mode of treatment appears to be effective for panic disorder with agoraphobia. After the treatment the patient no longer reported panic attacks or avoidance behaviour. At 1-year follow-up panic disorder and agoraphobia were in full remission. Copyright © 2004 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in early pregnancy is included in routine antenatal care for several infectious agents in many western European countries. Pharmaco-economics of these interventions have been evaluated. Currently, reconsideration of anternatal screening is ongoing, with explicit attention given to extending the STD testing to some other infectious agents, such as HIV and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT). This paper examines the socio-economics of such extensions for the Netherlands and the UK. Based on pharmaco-economic investigations in the UK and the Netherlands, we argue that serious consideration should be given to expanding antenatal STD screening to include universal testing for HIV and CT. Further research should be directed to the economic aspects of paediatric HIV infection and the epidemiology of CT in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on a study on the derivation of a generalization of Cattaneo-Mindlin solution for thin bonded layers with arbitrary surfaces. Expressions for the normal and tangential surface displacements; Explanation on tangential contract; Information on general load histories.

Describes crystallization of mutant enzyme from chicken heart mitochondria (mAspAT K258H) and from Escherichia coli (eAspAT K258H) as PLP and PMP holoenzymes, as complexes of the latter with sulfate or 2-oxoglutarate and as complexes of the apoenzymes. Determination of three dimensional structure of these derivatives by X-ray crystallography to explore the catalytic function of histidine side chain in AspAT K258H. Materials, methods, results and discussion.

Presents an analytical solution for Hertzian surfaces in contact under stepwise oblique loading. Determination of the size of the stick zone by cones in the force space; Proposed computer algorithm and comparison with a numerical solution of the discretized problem; Outline of the theories of frictionless elastic contact.

We report on the realization of high-quality silica optical microcavities on a chip. We show that a precise control of radii of both silica disk and silicon pillar defines the shape of molten microresonators from microtoroids to microspheres. These last ones advantageously combine small mode volumes in structures of very small radii (5 < r < 14 μm) which are fully compatible to wafer-based processing. The optical quality-factor of silica microsphere on a chip is as high as 7.5 × 107 at 1.55 μm. The losses sources in these microspheres are detailed and we show that measured quality-factors are limited by the radiative losses for the smallest ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the preparation and crystal structures of two polymorphs of alkaline earth metals. Characteristics of metals used in the study; Summary of the crystallographic data; Synthesis of calcium nitridoaluminates.

Discusses research which examined the tangential loading of general three-dimensional contracts. Explanation on the generalization of Cattaneo-Mindlin solution; List of points in the study which can mislead the reader.

Investigates the damping of the oscillations of a permanent magnet levitating between high-critical temperature (T[sub c]) superconductors. Discovery of a step minimum of the damping close to T[sub c]; Reduction of the linear frictional force near T[sub c]; Discussion of the frictional force source.

Presents a discussion on a paper presented by J.F. Cuttino and T.A. Dow on contact between elastic bodiew with an elliptic contact interface in torsional contact. Indepth look at the analytic relationship between torque and the rotational angle; Details on the solutions derived by Cuttino and Dow.

Objectives: Topical drug administration is commonly applied to control oral inflammation. However, it requires sufficient drug adherence and a high degree of bioavailability. Here, we tested the hypothesis whether an ester-based core-multishell (CMS) nanocarrier is a suitable nontoxic drug-delivery system that penetrates efficiently to oral mucosal tissues, and thereby, increase the bioavailability of topically applied drugs. Material and methods: To evaluate adhesion and penetration, the fluorescence-labeled CMS 10-E-15-350 nanocarrier was applied to ex vivo porcine masticatory and lining mucosa in a Franz cell diffusion assay and to an in vitro 3D model. In gingival epithelial cells, potential cytotoxicity and proliferative effects of the nanocarrier were determined by MTT and sulphorhodamine B assays, respectively. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured in presence and absence of CMS 10-E-15-350 using an Endohm-12 chamber and a volt-ohm-meter. Cellular nanocarrier uptake was analyzed by laser scanning microscopy. Inflammatory responses were determined by monitoring pro-inflammatory cytokines using real-time PCR and ELISA. Results: CMS nanocarrier adhered to mucosal tissues within 5 min in an in vitro model and in ex vivo porcine tissues. The CMS nanocarrier exhibited no cytotoxic effects and induced no inflammatory responses. Furthermore, the physical barrier expressed by the TEER remained unaffected by the nanocarrier. Conclusions: CMS 10-E-15-350 adhered to the oral mucosa and adhesion increased over time which is a prerequisite for an efficient drug release. Since TEER is unaffected, CMS nanocarrier may enter the oral mucosa transcellularly. Clinical relevance: Nanocarrier technology is a novel and innovative approach for efficient topical drug delivery at the oral mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper outlines the most significant result of the project ‘The use of life cycle assessment tools for the development of integrated waste management strategies for cities and regions with rapid growing economies’, which was the development of two decision-support tools: a municipal waste prognostic tool and a waste management system assessment tool. The article focuses on the assessment tool, which supports the adequate decision making in the planning of urban waste management systems by allowing the creation and comparison of different scenarios, considering three basic subsystems: (i) temporary storage; (ii) collection and transport and (iii) treatment, disposal and recycling. The design and analysis options, as well as the assumptions made for each subsystem, are shortly introduced, providing an overview of the applied methodologies and technologies. The sustainability assessment methodology used in the project to support the selection of the most adequate scenario is presented with a brief explanation of the procedures, criteria and indicators applied on the evaluation of each of the three sustainability pillars. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Seventy per cent of patients with psychotic disorders has paranoid delusions. Paranoid delusions are associated with significant distress, hospital admission and social isolation. Cognitive-behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is the primary psychological treatment, but the median effect size is only small to medium. Virtual reality (VR) has a great potential to improve the effectiveness of CBTp. In a previous study, we found that VR based CBT (VRcbt) for paranoid delusions is superior to waiting list. As a next step, a direct comparison with CBTp is needed. The present study aims to investigate whether VRcbt is more effective and cost-effective than regular CBTp in treating paranoid delusions and improving daily life social functioning of patients with psychotic disorders. Methods: A total of 106 patients with DSM-5 diagnosis of psychotic disorder and at least moderate level of paranoid ideations will be recruited for this multicentre randomized controlled trial (RCT). Patients will be randomized to either VRcbt or standard CBTp for paranoid delusions. VRcbt consists of maximum 16 sessions in virtual social situations that trigger paranoid ideations and distress, delivered in an 8–12 week time frame. Standard CBTp also consists of maximum 16 sessions including exposure and behavioural experiments, delivered in an 8–12 week time frame. The two groups will be compared at baseline, post-treatment and six months follow-up. Primary outcome is the level of paranoid ideations in daily life social situations, measured with ecological momentary assessments (EMA) at semi-random moments ten times a day during seven days, before and after treatment. Every session, participants and therapists will rate the level of paranoid ideation and global clinical impression. Discussion: Comparison of VRcbt and CBTp will provide information about the relative (cost-) effectiveness of VRcbt for this population. VRcbt may become a preferred psychological treatment for paranoid delusions and social anxiety in patients with psychotic disorder. Trial registration: Netherlands Trial Register, NL7758. Registered on 23 May 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patterns in the costs of hospital in-patient care and in-patient drug treatment of 121 symptomatic, HIV-infected patients are described for a university hospital between 1987 and 1991. Trend analyses have been performed on quarterly and yearly data using parametric and non-parametric statistical techniques. During the 5-year study period the demand for hospital beds almost quadrupled despite a constant number of admissions per person-year and a 40% decrease in the average length of stay. The demand for beds was highest in the autumn and winter months. The impact of female and/or heterosexual subgroups on the yearly utilization of resources increased and reasons for hospitalization became more diverse; there were fewer hospitalizations for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia infection. Antimicrobial drug treatment accounted for the increased drug treatment costs. The implications for AIDS-treating specialists, hospital managers, and scenario analysts are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thanks to their unique optical properties Ge–Sb–S–Se–Te amorphous chalcogenide materials and compounds offer tremendous opportunities of applications, in particular in near and mid-infrared range. This spectral range is for instance of high interest for photonics or optical sensors. Using co-sputtering technique of chalcogenide compound targets in a 200 mm industrial deposition tool, we show how by modifying the amorphous structure of GeSbwSxSeyTez chalcogenide thin films one can significantly tailor their linear and nonlinear optical properties. Modelling of spectroscopic ellipsometry data collected on the as-deposited chalcogenide thin films is used to evaluate their linear and nonlinear properties. Moreover, Raman and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopies permitted to get a description of their amorphous structure. For the purpose of applications, their thermal stability upon annealing is also evaluated. We demonstrate that depending on the GeSbwSxSeyTez film composition a trade-off between a high transparency in near- or mid-infrared ranges, strong nonlinearity and good thermal stability can be found in order to use such materials for applications compatible with the standard CMOS integration processes of microelectronics and photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Parental hesitancy in immunization is an emerging and concerning problem owing to the serious consequences of a lack of vaccination. Few tools are available to combat this phenomenon. Aims To evaluate the interest of parents in recording the vaccine schedule on a common consumer product as a solution to prevent immunization oversight. Method We conducted a preliminary prospective and monocentric study, in a parental population, using surveys to evaluate interest in this solution, and to define the sociodemographic characteristics of our population. Our population was clustered into three groups: against immunization, hesitant/negligent, and pro-immunization. This solution was evaluated using a univariate model between fearful and confident populations in respect of immunization, associated with a descriptive analysis of the population against immunization. Results Of 825 surveys distributed, 709 were analyzed. There were 47 parents against immunization (6.6%), 284 hesitant/negligent parents (40%), and 378 pro-immunization parents (53.3%). We showed that the hesitant/negligent population reported more difficulties in remembering the immunization schedule (P < 0.001; OR = 0.36; 95% CI [0.25–0.51]), and was interested in discussions on immunization (P < 0.001; OR = 0.41; 95% CI [0.29–0.58]). This population prone to oversight was interested in the labeling of an everyday consumer product with the immunization schedule (P = 0.03; OR = 0.68; 95% CI [1.02–2.11]) to limit the number of missed injections. Conclusion There is no single or perfect solution to combat the current anti-immunization problem, although communication through everyday consumer products seems to be an interesting tool for raising parental awareness of the importance of immunization. Further studies are required to evaluate the effectiveness of this tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast and label-free techniques to analyze viruses and bacteria are of crucial interest in biological and bio-medical applications. For this purpose, optofluidic systems based on the integration of photonic structures with microfluidic layers were shown to be promising tools for biological analysis, thanks to their small footprint and to their ability to manipulate objects using low powers. In this letter, we report on the optical trapping of living bacteria in a 2D silicon hollow photonic crystal cavity. This structure allows for the Gram-type differentiation of bacteria at the single cell scale, in a fast, label-free, and non-destructive way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) study showed that glycaemic control (HbA1c) can predict vascular complications in Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) study showed that accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) from skin biopsies predicts vascular complications in Type 1 diabetes. Previously, we showed that tissue AGEs can be measured non‐invasively using skin autofluorescence (SAF). The aim of this study was to compare the predictive value of HbA1c and SAF for new macrovascular events and microvascular complications in people with Type 2 diabetes. Methods: A prospective cohort study of 563 participants, median age 64 years [interquartile range (IQR) 57–72], diabetes duration of 13 years, from five Dutch hospitals was performed. Results: After a median follow‐up of 5.1 (IQR 4.3–5.9) years, 79 (15%) participants had died and 49 (9%) were lost to follow‐up. Some 133 (26%) developed a microvascular complication and 189 (37%) a macrovascular event. Tertiles of HbA1c were significantly associated with development of microvascular complications (log rank P = 0.022), but not with macrovascular events. Tertiles of SAF were significantly associated with macrovascular events (log rank P = 0.003). Cox regression analysis showed SAF was associated with macrovascular events: crude hazard ratio (HR) 1.53 (P < 0.001) per unit increase, HR 1.28 (P = 0.03) after correction for UKPDS score. HbA1c was predictive for microvascular complications: crude HR 1.20 (P = 0.004), HR 1.20 (P = 0.004) after correction for UKPDS score. Conclusion: This study shows that tissue accumulation of AGEs, assessed by SAF, is associated with development of macrovascular events in people with Type 2 diabetes, whereas HbA1c is associated with the development of microvascular complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The biofilter and the ionisation system are two oxidative treatment techniques for purification of waste gas streams with low concentrations of volatile organic compounds. In this paper, the authors present the investigations of an ionisation technique aimed at increasing the efficiency of the reduction of the odorant concentration in waste gas streams from biological waste treatment plants. The objective is to enable advanced odour emission reduction and to adjust the existing biofilters to stricter requirements. In a first step, the odorous substances which are major contributors to the overall odorant concentration are identified on basis of various emission data sets with the help of a method of life cycle impact assessment. Thereby limonene, alpha-pinene, ethyl butyrate and dimethyl disulphide were identified as crucial indicators. In a second step, experimental investigations using limonene as a model compound were conducted to gain an understanding of the ionisation process itself and at last for the evaluation of the system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The methane oxidation potential of a landfill cover with capillary barrier was investigated in an experimental plant (4.8m×0.8m×2.1m). The cover soil consisted of two layers, a mixture of compost plus sand (0.3m) over a layer of loamy sand (0.9m). Four different climatic conditions (summer, winter, spring and fall) were simulated. In and outgoing fluxes were measured. Gas composition, temperature, humidity, matrix potential and gas pressure were monitored in two profiles. CH4 oxidation rate within the investigated top cover ranged from 98% to 57%. The minimum was observed for a short time after irrigation. Temperature distribution, gas concentration profiles and lab-scaled batch experiments indicate that before irrigation the highest oxidising activity took place in a depth of about 30cm. After irrigation the oxidising horizon seemed to migrate upwards since methanotrophic bacteria develop better there due to an adequate supply with oxygen. It can be assumed that the absence of oxygen is one of the most important limiting factors for the CH4 oxidation process. Abrupt cross-overs between horizons of different soil material may lead to zones of increased water saturation and decreased soil respiration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, the authors present a technique aimed at increasing the efficiency of biological waste air treatment. The objective is to modify the existing biological waste air treatment systems (i.e. biofilters) to reduce the emitted substances and their potential environmental impacts. The principle of the ionization system is described, along with the first experiences of applying those methods during the rotting process. The investigated system is evaluated by means of life cycle impact assessment, with a focus on odour. It is demonstrated which of the measured substances (i.e. VOC) can potentially contribute to the odorant concentration. Further, it is shown which odour-intensive substances can be reduced by deploying ionization. Finally, the authors respond to the fact that the cleaning efficiency of ionization strongly depends on the humidity of the treated waste gas stream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A randomised phase II trial was initiated to explore the feasibility of concomitant cisplatin and radiotherapy with conventional fractionation (CF) or multiple fractions per day (MFD) for patients with locally advanced head and neck malignancies. The MFD schedule was designed to achieve higher tumour concentrations of cisplatin at the time of irradiation by reducing the number of radiation treatment weeks from 7 to 3, allowing recovery from side-effects of both irradiation and cystostatic drugs during the rest periods, while keeping the same total dose and overall treatment time. Patients were randomised between a conventional fractionation scheme (CF) of 70 Gy in 7 weeks with 2 Gy per fraction with a daily dose of 6 mg/m2 cisplatin and a modified fractionation scheme (MFD) delivering three fractions of 1.6 Gy per day, in weeks 1, 4 and 7, keeping the same overall treatment time and total dose. In the modified treatment regime, a daily dose of 10 mg/m2 cisplatin was administered. 53 patients were entered in this trial and radiotherapy was given according to the schedule to all patients in both treatment arms. Cisplatin was given during the whole course of radiotherapy to only one quarter of the patients in the CF arm, stopping mostly after 5–6 weeks due to bone marrow depression and kidney toxicity, while patients in the MFD arm received it according to schedule. No difference was observed in acute and late toxicity in both treatment arms, while a similar or even better tumour response was obtained with MFD. A 67% higher daily dose of cisplatin concomitant with irradiation could be given in a 3-week multiple fractionation per day schedule, as opposed to the cisplatin given in the conventional daily fractionation schedule of 7 weeks with the same total radiation dose. Similar acute and late toxicities were seen in both treatment arms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Models commonly used for the economic assessment of chlamydial screening programs do not consider population effects.Goal: To develop a novel dynamic approach for the economic evaluation of chlamydial prevention measures and to determine the cost-effectiveness of a general practitioner-based screening program.Study Design: The dynamic approach was used to estimate the cost-effectiveness of a screening program for the first 10 years of screening in The Netherlands. Screening involved a ligase chain reaction test on urine followed by standardized therapies and partner referral. Eligible persons were sexually active, 15 to 24 years, visited a general practitioner, and had no symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases. The heterosexual model population, which consisted of persons 15 to 64 years, had a total chlamydial prevalence of 4.1% before screening. Screening effects on chlamydial incidence were computed by using a population-based stochastic simulation model. Incidence data were connected with a decision analysis model to determine the health effects of the program. The net costs of the program were calculated (investment costs minus averted costs, in 1997 US$) from a societal perspective and expressed per major outcome averted (symptomatic pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, neonatal pneumonia).Results: Unlike the standard static approach, our model adequately addresses dynamic processes such as chlamydial transmission and the impact of screening programs on chlamydial incidence in the population. During the first 10 years of screening, the investigated program yields savings of US $492 or US $1,086 per major outcome averted, excluding or including indirect costs, respectively. These results depend on chlamydial prevalence and partner referral.Conclusions: The cost-effectiveness of chlamydial screening programs seems best to be determined by using dynamic modeling on a population basis. In addition to preventing negative health outcomes, the investigated screening program may save costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the costs associated with influenza and the cost effectiveness (net costs per life-year gained) of influenza vaccination in The Netherlands.Design and Setting: The economic evaluation comprised a cost-of-illness assessment and a cost-effectiveness analysis, both of which were conducted from the healthcare perspective in The Netherlands. The modelling framework for the economic evaluation linked epidemiological aspects of influenza (e.g. incidence, mortality, years of life lost) to vaccination coverage and healthcare resource use. Healthcare resource use was specified for hospitalisations, general practitioner visits and drugs.Intervention: The intervention assessed in the cost-effectiveness analysis was influenza vaccination.Main Outcome Measures and Results: The costs of influenza were estimated to be 31 million euros (EUR) for the influenza season 1995/96 in The Netherlands (EUR1 approximately $US1.1). For the extended programme in 1997/98, i.e. all elderly people, the cost-effectiveness ratio was estimated at EUR1820 per life-year gained. Sub-group analysis demonstrated that the programme had a more favourable cost effectiveness among the chronically ill elderly population (cost saving) than among the rest of the elderly population (EUR6900 per life-year gained).Conclusion: Influenza vaccination has a cost-effectiveness ratio that is better than or comparable to that of other implemented Dutch programmes in the prevention of infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An infant with severe deficiency of complex III combined with less severe deficiencies of complexes I, II and IV of the mitochondrial respiratory chain in skeletal muscle tissue presented with intra-uterine growth retardation, generalized hypotonia and delayed motor development. In the following 3.5 years muscle tone and motor development gradually normalized whereas the lactic acidosis and enzyme activities did not improve.Conclusion This report documents a favourable clinical course in a child with combined respiratory chain deficiency despite persistent biochemical abnor-malities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabet. Med. 29, 1556-1561 (2012) Abstract Aims Skin autofluorescence is a non-invasive marker of advanced glycation end product accumulation. In a previous study, skin autofluorescence correlated with and predicted micro- and macrovascular complications in Type 2 diabetes in a primary care setting. The present cross-sectional study aims to confirm the association between skin autofluorescence and diabetic complications in patients with Type 2 diabetes in a multi-centre secondary care setting. Methods We analysed 563 subjects with Type 2 diabetes mellitus from five Dutch hospitals. Results Median age was 64 years, median duration of diabetes 13 years and median HbA1c 58 mmol/mol (7.5%). Sixty-one per cent of patients had microvascular complications (38% nephropathy, 36% retinopathy, 35% neuropathy) and 42% had macrovascular complications. Median UK Prospective Diabetes Study 10-year risk for coronary events was 19%. Median skin autofluorescence was elevated compared with age-matched healthy control subjects: 2.77 (interquartile range 2.39-3.28) vs. 2.46 (2.08-2.84) arbitrary units. Skin autofluorescence was particularly increased in patients with complications: no complications, median 2.56 (2.26-2.90); microvascular complications, 2.79 (2.38-3.29); macrovascular complications, 2.85 (2.41-3.41); both micro- and macrovascular complications, 2.96 (2.56-3.60) arbitrary units, P < 0.001. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, duration of diabetes, renal function, gender, atrial fibrillation and skin autofluorescence were independently associated with macrovascular complications. Multiple regression analysis identified age, smoking, renal function, macrovascular complications and the number of microvascular complications as the determinants of skin autofluorescence. Conclusions This study confirms that skin autofluorescence is increased in patients with Type 2 diabetes in a secondary care setting. Skin autofluorescence was associated with macrovascular complications in patients with diabetes and this association was independent of classical risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]