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Inhalation of the ambient air pollutant ozone causes lung inflammation and can suppress host defense mechanisms, including impairing macrophage phagocytosis. Ozone reacts with cholesterol in the lung to form oxysterols, like secosterol A and secosterol B (SecoA and SecoB), which can form covalent adducts on cellular proteins. How oxysterol-protein adduction modifies the function of lung macrophages is unknown. Herein, we used a proteomic screen to identify lung macrophage proteins that form adducts with ozone-derived oxysterols. Functional ontology analysis of the adductome indicated that protein binding was a major function of adducted proteins. Further analysis of specific proteins forming adducts with SecoA identified the phagocytic receptors CD206 and CD64. Adduction of these receptors with ozone-derived oxysterols impaired ligand binding and corresponded with reduced macrophage phagocytosis. This work suggests a novel mechanism for the suppression of macrophage phagocytosis following ozone exposure through the generation of oxysterols and the formation of oxysterol-protein adducts on phagocytic receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette smoke exposure is a risk factor for many pulmonary diseases, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Cigarette smokers are more prone to respiratory infections with more severe symptoms. In those with COPD, viral infections can lead to acute exacerbations resulting in lung function decline and death. Epithelial cells in the lung are the first line of defense against inhaled insults such as tobacco smoke and are the target for many respiratory pathogens. Endocytosis is an essential cell function involved in nutrient uptake, cell signaling, and sensing of the extracellular environment, yet, the effect of cigarette smoke on epithelial cell endocytosis is not known. Here, we report for the first time that cigarette smoke alters the function of several important endocytic pathways in primary human small airway epithelial cells. Cigarette smoke exposure impairs clathrin-mediated endocytosis and fluid phase macropinocytosis while increasing caveolin mediated endocytosis. We also show that influenza virus uptake is enhanced by cigarette smoke exposure. These results support the concept that cigarette smoke-induced dysregulation of endocytosis contributes to lung infection in smokers. Targeting endocytosis pathways to restore normal epithelial cell function may be a new therapeutic approach to reduce respiratory infections in current and former smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which examined the temperature dependence of the magnetic moments of two D-2 commercial iron metal particle (MP) recording tapes; Description of the small, tightly packed oxide particles; Structural details of the metal particles in the pigment and tape specimens obtained by x-ray diffraction; Elemental compositions of the MP pigment and tape specimens; Chemical analysis results.

Presents a study which analyzed the magnetization and applied magnetic field data for different classes of particulate magnetic recording media. Experimental methods; Calculation of magnetization; Results and discussion.

Presents information on a study which used Mössbauer spectroscopy to determine the features of sputtered cobalt-chromium films. Preparation of the films by direct current magnetron sputtering; Description of the x-ray diffraction patterns of the isotopically enriched films; Results of quadropole splitting and line broadening terms.

Presents a study which examined the rare-earth crystal field and exchange interactions in Nd[sub2]Fe[sub14]B. Mathematical expression for free energy; Temperature dependence of the spin orientation angle in Nd[sub]2Fe[sub14]B; Computation for the alternative estimate of the rare-earth-transition metal exchange interaction.

Presents information on a study which derived Mössbauer effect measurements on sputtered cobalt (Co)-chromium (Cr) films containing a small amount of iron with compositions Co[sub76]Cr[sub20]Fe[sub4]. X-ray diffraction patterns; Analysis of the Mössbauer spectra for the samples; Composition of the magnetically split portion of the spectrum.

Chronic inflammation is an underlying feature of many diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and multiple sclerosis. There is an increasing appreciation of the dysregulation of adaptive immunity in chronic inflammatory and allergic diseases. The discovery of specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) that actively promote the resolution of inflammation has opened new avenues for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Much work has been done focusing on the impact of SPMs on innate immune cells. However, much less is known about the influence of SPMs on the development of antigen-specific adaptive immune responses. This Review highlights the important breakthroughs concerning the effects of SPMs on the key cell types involved in the development of adaptive immunity, namely dendritic cells, T cells, and B cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette smokers and people exposed to second-hand smoke are at an increased risk for pulmonary viral infections, and yet the mechanism responsible for this heightened susceptibility is not understood. To understand the effect of cigarette smoke on susceptibility to viral infection, we used an air-liquid interface culture system and exposed primary human small airway epithelial cells (SAEC) to whole cigarette smoke, followed by treatment with the viral mimetic polyinosinic polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) or influenza A virus (IAV). We found that prior smoke exposure strongly inhibited production of proinflammatory (interleukin-6 and interleukin-8) and antiviral [interferon-γ-induced protein 10 (IP-10) and interferons] mediators in SAECs in response to poly I:C and IAV infection. Impaired antiviral responses corresponded to increased infection with IAV. This was associated with a decrease in phosphorylation of the key antiviral transcription factor interferon response factor 3 (IRF3). Here, we found that cigarette smoke exposure inhibited activation of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) by impairing TLR3 cleavage, which was required for downstream phosphorylation of IRF3 and production of IP-10. These results identify a novel mechanism by which cigarette smoke exposure impairs antiviral responses in lung epithelial cells, which may contribute to increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, over 4 million premature deaths each year are attributed to the burning of biomass fuels for cooking and heating. Epidemiological studies associate household air pollution with lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections. Animal dung, a biomass fuel used by economically vulnerable populations, generates more toxic compounds per mass burned than other biomass fuels. The type of animal dung used varies widely depending on local agro-geography. There are currently neither standardized experimental systems for dung biomass smoke research nor studies assessing the health impacts of different types of dung smoke. Here, we used a novel reproducible exposure system to assess outcomes related to inflammation and respiratory infections in human airway cells exposed to six different types of dung biomass smoke. We report that dung biomass smoke, regardless of species, is pro-inflammatory and activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and JNK transcription factors; however, dung smoke also suppresses interferon responses after a challenge with a viral mimetic. These effects are consistent with epidemiological data, and suggest a mechanism by which the combustion of animal dung can directly cause lung diseases, promote increased susceptibility to infection, and contribute to the global health problem of household air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the unusual magnetic behavior in neodymium-iron-boron alloy powder compacts. Details on the experiment; Magnetization versus temperature measurements for unannealed powder; Method used to determined the iron-containing compounds.

Presents a study concerning H[subc] enhancement of cobalt-absorbed iron oxide particles via surface treatment with sodium polyphosphate. Experimental procedures; Results; Conclusion.

Discusses the effects on the magnetic properties of single crystal Fe[sub3]O[sub4] when it is grown epitaxially constrained to an MgO subtrate. Process involved in the preparation of the films; Results of conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy; Examination of in-plane anisotropy.

Provides information on a study which investigated the magnetic properties of dilute cobalt-silver heterogeneous alloy films to test the Néel model of magnetic relaxation. Experimental procedure; Direct current magnetic measurements; Conclusion.

Presents a study which measured hysteresis loops of randomly oriented assemblies of acicular particles. Discussion on the temperature dependence of a variety of properties derived from the hysteresis loop; Methods used in measuring hysteresis loops; Results and discussion.

Presents a study which performed least-squares for first-quadrant moment versus field data for several recording media based on γ-Fe[sub2])[sub3] that are fit to anisotropy field distribution within Stoner-Wolfarth model. Role of the average coercivity and switching field distribution in particulate media; Experimental procedures followed; Calculation of magnetic moment; Results and discussion.

Animal dung is a biomass fuel burned by vulnerable populations who cannot afford cleaner sources of energy, such as wood and gas, for cooking and heating their homes. Exposure to biomass smoke is the leading environmental risk for mortality, with over 4,000,000 deaths each year worldwide attributed to indoor air pollution from biomass smoke. Biomass smoke inhalation is epidemiologically associated with pulmonary diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and respiratory infections, especially in low and middle-income countries. Yet, few studies have examined the mechanisms of dung biomass smoke-induced inflammatory responses in human lung cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that dung biomass smoke causes inflammatory responses in human lung cells through signaling pathways involved in acute and chronic lung inflammation. Primary human small airway epithelial cells (SAECs) were exposed to dung smoke at the air-liquid interface using a newly developed, automated, and reproducible dung biomass smoke generation system. The examination of inflammatory signaling showed that dung biomass smoke increased the production of several proinflammatory cytokines and enzymes in SAECs through activation of the activator protein (AP)-1 and arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) but not nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. We propose that the inflammatory responses of lung cells exposed to dung biomass smoke contribute to the development of respiratory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resolution of inflammation is an active and dynamic process, mediated in large part by the innate immune system. Resolution represents not only an increase in anti-inflammatory actions, but also a paradigm shift in immune cell function to restore homeostasis. PPARγ, a ligand activated transcription factor, has long been studied for its anti-inflammatory actions, but an emerging body of literature is investigating the role of PPARγ and its ligands (including thiazolidinediones, prostaglandins, and oleanolic acids) in all phases of resolution. PPARγ can shift production from pro- to anti-inflammatory mediators by neutrophils, platelets, and macrophages. PPARγ and its ligands further modulate platelet and neutrophil function, decreasing trafficking, promoting neutrophil apoptosis, and preventing platelet-leukocyte interactions. PPARγ alters macrophage trafficking, increases efferocytosis and phagocytosis, and promotes alternative M2 macrophage activation. There are also roles for this receptor in the adaptive immune response, particularly regarding B cells. These effects contribute towards the attenuation of multiple disease states, including COPD, colitis, Alzheimer’s disease, and obesity in animal models. Finally, novel specialized proresolving mediators—eicosanoids with critical roles in resolution—may act through PPARγ modulation to promote resolution, providing another exciting area of therapeutic potential for this receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Polyps identified at colonoscopy are predominantly diminutive (<5 mm) with a small risk (>1%) of high-grade dysplasia or carcinoma; however, the cost of histological assessment is substantial. Aim The aim of this study was to determine whether prediction of colonoscopy surveillance intervals based on real-time endoscopic assessment of polyp histology is accurate and cost effective. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted across a tertiary care and private community hospital. Ninety-four patients underwent colonoscopy and polypectomy of diminutive ( ≤5 mm) polyps from October 2012 to July 2013, yielding a total of 159 polyps. Polyps were examined and classified according to the Sano-Emura classification system. The endoscopic assessment (optical diagnosis) of polyp histology was used to predict appropriate colonoscopy surveillance intervals. The main outcome measure was the accuracy of optical diagnosis of diminutive colonic polyps against the gold standard of histological assessment. Results Optical diagnosis was correct in 105/108 (97.2%) adenomas. This yielded a sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values (with 95%CI) of 97.2% (92.1-99.4%), 78.4% (64.7-88.7%), 90.5% (83.7-95.2%) and 93% (80.9-98.5%) respectively. Ninety-two (98%) patients were correctly triaged to their repeat surveillance colonoscopy. Based on these findings, a cut and discard approach would have resulted in a saving of $319.77 per patient. Conclusion Endoscopists within a tertiary care setting can accurately predict diminutive polyp histology and confer an appropriate surveillance interval with an associated financial benefit to the healthcare system. However, limitations to its application in the community setting exist, which may improve with further training and high-definition colonoscopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiological studies associate biomass smoke with an increased risk for respiratory infections in children and adults in the developing world, with 500,000 premature deaths each year attributed to biomass smoke-related acute respiratory infections including infections caused by respiratory viruses. Animal dung is a biomass fuel of particular concern because it generates more toxic compounds per amount burned than wood, and is a fuel of last resort for the poorest households. Currently, there is little biological evidence on the effects of dung biomass smoke exposure on immune responses to respiratory viral infections. Here, we investigated the impact of dung biomass exposure on respiratory infection using a mouse model of dung biomass smoke and cultured primary human small airway epithelial cells (SAECs). Mice infected with influenza A virus (IAV) after dung biomass smoke exposure had increased mortality, lung inflammation and virus mRNA levels, and suppressed expression of innate anti-viral mediators compared to air exposed mice. Importantly, there was still significant tissue inflammation 14 days after infection in dung biomass smoke-exposed mice even after inflammation had resolved in air-exposed mice. Dung biomass smoke exposure also suppressed the production of anti-viral cytokines and interferons in cultured SAECs treated with poly(I:C) or IAV. This study shows that dung biomass smoke exposure impairs the immune response to respiratory viruses and contributes to biomass smoke-related susceptibility to respiratory viral infections, likely due to a failure to resolve the inflammatory effects of biomass smoke exposure. [Display omitted] • Exposure to household air pollution from dung biomass fuel significantly increases risk of respiratory infection and death. • Mice exposed to dung biomass smoke prior to influenza A infection exhibit increased inflammation and mortality. • Exposure to dung biomass smoke significantly impairs the innate immune response and dampens anti-viral interferons. • Dung biomass smoke impairs interferon responses in primary human small airway epithelial cells. • Dung biomass smoke contributes to susceptibility to respiratory viral infections by impairing innate immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are little data regarding Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) roles in long-term care settings and how the roles might be expanded or changed to meet the unique needs of the elderly. The purpose of this quantitative descriptive study was to determine if an increase in knowledge occurred in LPN care providers after implementation of a 32-hour education program. The program was delivered in 8 self-contained learning modules to a convenience sample of 15 LPNs working in 2 rural long-term care settings. There were significant statistical differences in pre- and post-test scores for 3 of the learning modules. Written comments on an evaluation survey of participants indicated knowledge had been broadened. An open-ended questionnaire completed by the 2 directors of nursing 6 weeks postcompletion of the program indicated improvement in the participant's basic leadership and management skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To quantify the effects of surgery on the thermal deficits of syringomyelia and assess the predictors for such effects.Methods: The subjects were 16 consecutive patients (12 men, 4 women; mean (SD) duration of sensory symptoms, 5.1 (4.5) years) presenting with the typical symptoms of syringomyelia related to Chiari I malformation or trauma, and requiring surgical treatment. They were evaluated before surgery, then at six months and two years. Sensory evaluation included determination of the extent of thermal deficits and quantitative assessment of thermal, mechanical, vibration detection, and pain thresholds. Neuropathic pain intensity was evaluated on visual analogue scales. Magnetic resonance imaging was done before and after surgery to measure syrinx dimensions.Results: The magnitude and extent of thermal deficits improved in a subgroup of patients and this was best predicted by the duration of sensory symptoms: patients operated on less than two years after the onset of their symptoms tended to improve, while those operated on later were stabilised or deteriorated slightly. The effect of surgery on thermal deficits was correlated with the duration of sensory symptoms. Surgery also affected vibration deficits in patients with the Chiari malformation, neuropathic pain on effort, and syrinx dimensions.Conclusions: The duration of sensory deficits is the best predictive factor of the efficacy of surgery for the thermal symptoms of syringomyelia. Early surgery is required if these deficits are to be minimised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses upon the experiences of a group of 10 long-stay psychiatric patients as they moved from a large institution to a staffed community hostel. The residents were interviewed 2 weeks prior to moving and again 6 weeks after the move. Areas identified in the first set of unstructured interviews were followed up in the second set. Qualitative analysis of the interviews revealed seven recurrent themes that are discussed in relation to other research studies that consider how people experience the effects of institutionalization. The study tests the feasibility of unstructured interviews as a means of collecting accounts of the perceptions and experiences of a client group from which other research methods have failed to elicit detailed information. Unstructured interviews proved successful when undertaken by a researcher who was well known and accepted by the residents. Familiarity with the residents and the context of the interview was also found to be important in analysing interviews qualitatively and the study casts doubt upon the value of primary qualitative analysis of interview transcripts by researchers who have not also participated in the interviews. The methodological implications for future deinstitutionalization studies are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) belongs to the autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disorders' group, which mainly includes NF1 and NF2, tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease and Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CCMs). NF1 has a major impact on the nervous system, eye, skin, bone or cardiovascular system. Cerebrovascular lesions have been reported in NF1 including aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous malformations, vascular stenosis or occlusion and Moya moya syndrome. Objective To report a case of an NF1 patient with multiple CCMs. Observation A 47-year-old man with café-au-lait skin lesions, countless cutaneous neurofibromas, short stature and scoliosis was admitted for progressive spinal cord compression due to histologically proven neurofibroma. Systematic cerebral MRI screening including gradient echo sequences showed multiple asymptomatic CCMs. Screening of CCM1, CCM2 and CCM3 genes was negative while a deleterious frameshift mutation was identified in NF1 gene. Conclusion While single CCM can occur in NF1 patients following radiation exposure, they are only rarely reported in non-irradiated NF1 brain. Even if it could be a fortuitous association, plausible links and explanations exist. If cerebral MRI can be systematic in NF1 to detect asymptomatic gliomas, used protocols in neuroradiology do not usually include gradient echo sequences, the most sensitive test for CCM detection, leading possibly to failure to detect these vascular lesions. More reports having this combination and further investigations of NF1 families will certainly provide a better understanding of links between these 2 phakomatoses, as recently reported with “multiple meningiomas” phenotype associated with multiple CCMs in patients with CCM3 gene mutations or café-au-lait skin lesions in CCM1 mutation carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exchange spring magnet particles of Nd2(FeCo)14B/α-FeCo were prepared by spark erosion. X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer studies showed that the particles are composed of about ∼85 vol % of Nd2(FeCo)14B and ∼13 vol % of α-FeCo with negligible other phases. No oxide was found in these particles. Transmission electron micrographs indicated that the grain sizes of the Nd2(FeCo)14B and α-FeCo phases are ∼10–50 nm, and are compatible with effective exchange coupling between the hard and soft phases. The intergrain exchange coupling was also observed in ΔM measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic particles with high permeabilities and moments, and low losses, have considerable potential for high-frequency power applications. In this paper, we report on spherical Co50 Fe50 fine particles prepared by spark erosion in liquid argon and nitrogen, kerosene, ethanol, and water. X-ray and Mössbauer spectra showed that the as-sparked Co50 Fe50 particles made in liquid argon and nitrogen exhibited primarily a disordered α-FeCo structure, which became mostly ordered B2 structure after annealing at 525 °C for 2 h. The as-sparked particles pit- pared in liquid kerosene and ethanol consisted of the disordered α-FeCo structure and various iron carbides. Annealing removed X-ray and Mössbauer evidence of carbides, and the particles then exhibited only the ordered B2 structure. As-sparked particles made in water contained both the α-FeCo disordered phase and an (FeCo)0 phase. After annealing, only ordered B2 and Fe3 O4 phases were found in these particles. The room-temperature magnetic moments and coercivity for the annealed particles were also measured. The complex magnetic permeability measured at 30 MHz indicated that the smaller particles generally exhibited relatively larger real permeability, μ', and smaller imaginary component, μ", than the larger particles. Relatively large μ' and small μ" (i.e., losses), were found for the as-sparked particles made in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents an abstract of the study 'Exchange Interactions Among Ferromagnetic Clusters in Cu-Co Heterogeneous Alloy Films,' by A.E. Berkowitz, F.T. Parker and D. Rao, published in the 'Journal of Applied Physics.'

Presents an abstract of an article on spin canting observed in γ-Fe[sub2]O[sub3] confined to a thin later surface.

Presents an abstract of an article on the field response of surface spins on cobalt-adsorbed γ-Fe[sub2]O[sub3].

Presents an abstract of the study 'Long Range Magnetic Order in Nonpercolating Granular Fe-SiO[sub2] Thin Films,' conducted by M.J. Carey, F.T. Parker, A.E. Berkowitz and C. Leroux.

Analyzes the structural and elastic properties of iron/copper superlattices. Details on the experiments; Information on the magnetic properties of the superlattices; Discussion of findings.

Perioperative fluid therapy and associated outcomes of patients undergoing major elective open gastrointestinal surgery are poorly understood. This study measured perioperative fluid therapy, complication rates and outcomes for major elective open gastrointestinal surgery in a tertiary care hospital. We obtained demographic data, operative details, fluid prescription, complications and outcomes in 100 patients. Patients were elderly and had multiple comorbidities. Median delivered intraoperative fluid volume was 4.2 litres, followed by 6.3 litres over the subsequent 24 hours. Perioperative fluid prescription was associated with a positive fluid balance. Complications occurred in 57% of patients with 32% experiencing at least one major complication. Serious complications were substantially more frequent in patients having non-colorectal operations. The most common adverse events were pulmonary oedema (21%), ileus (18%), serious sepsis (17%), pneumonia (17%), arrhythmias (14%), delirium (14%) and wound healing problems (infections 13%, anastomotic leaks 12%). Mortality at 30 days was 2%. This study provides planning data for future interventional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) is a rare disease characterised by herniation of cerebellar tonsils below the foramen magnum with associated anomalies of posterior fossa. We describe here the surgical technique, indications and limits of surgical treatment. Method: The authors describe the surgical technique, including: posterior fossa decompression, opening of the foramen of Magendie and duraplasty in case of CM-I. Conclusions: Posterior fossa decompression plus duraplasty is a safe and effective procedure for patients with CM-I malformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes a method for preparing samples of noninteracting spherical magnetic particles with a narrow size distribution. Use of nickel electrodes with distilled water as a dielectric fluid; Process of filtration technique; Application of computer fitting routine.

Highlights: [•] 3D guided wave propagation in composite laminates is simulated using elastodynamic finite integration technique. [•] Time domain and wavenumber domain comparisons are made between simulation, experimental data, and dispersion curves. [•] Results of comparisons match fairly closely and expected reasons for observed differences are discussed. [•] X-ray microfocus computed tomography data for a real composite delamination is incorporated into the simulation. [•] Results for delamination case demonstrate that complex geometry damage leads to unique scattering and mode conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study which investigated the effects of open liver resection on the coagulation and fibrinolytic pathways in patients with liver cancer. The research examined the conventional coagulation tests prothrombin time (PT) and activated thromboplastin time (aPTT) and specific markers of coagulation turnover and activation. It also tested the hypothesis that elevated levels of markers of coagulation activation and prolongation of PT would not result in abnormal coagulation.

We performed a prospective randomised trial to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of interpleural analgesia in patients undergoing hepatic resection. The control group ( n = 25) received multimodal analgesia with intravenous morphine patient-controlled analgesia; in addition, the interventional group ( n = 25) received interpleural analgesia with a 20-ml loading dose of levo bupivacaine 0.5% followed by a continuous infusion of levobupivacaine 0.125%. Outcome measures included pain intensity on movement using a visual analogue scale over 24 h, cumulative morphine and rescue analgesia requirements, patient satisfaction, hospital stay and all adverse events. Patients in the interpleural group were less sedated and none required treatment for respiratory depression compared to 6 (24%) in the control group (p< 0.01). Patients in the interpleural group also had lower pain scores during movement in the first 24 h. Patients’ satisfaction, opioid requirements and duration of hospital stay were similar. We conclude that continuous interpleural analgesia augments intravenous morphine analgesia, decreases postoperative sedation and reduces respiratory depression after hepatic resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on the resulting perioperative fluid therapy and complication rates in patients undergoing major elective open gastrointestinal surgery. In the survey conducted in a tertiary care hospital, the demographic data, operative details, and fluid prescriptions, among others, are obtained. Results showed that complications occurred in patients, including pulmonary oedema, ileus and serious sepsis.

Background: Chlorhexidine is better than povidone-iodine for care of catheter sites, but it is not known whether chlorhexidine is superior in reducing blood culture contamination.Objective: To determine whether alcoholic chlorhexidine is a more effective skin antiseptic for collection of blood cultures than aqueous povidone-iodine.Design: Randomized, controlled trial.Setting: Three adult intensive care units in a French university hospital.Patients: 403 adults who had at least one blood culture drawn through a peripheral vein.Interventions: Patients were randomly assigned to receive skin preparation with an aqueous solution of 10% povidone-iodine or an alcoholic solution of 0.5% chlorhexidine before phlebotomy.Measurements: Contamination rates of blood cultures.Results: Of 2041 blood cultures collected in 403 patients, 124 yielded pathogens. Chlorhexidine reduced the incidence of blood culture contamination more than povidone-iodine (14 of 1019 cultures [1.4%] compared with 34 of 1022 cultures [3.3%]; odds ratio, 0.40 [95% CI, 0.21 to 0.75]; P = 0.004).Conclusion: Skin preparation with alcoholic chlorhexidine is more efficacious than skin preparation with aqueous povidone-iodine in reducing contamination of blood cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When grapevine plants in a glasshouse were artificially inoculated with Botrytis cinerea and then treated with dicarboximides at different stages of bunch development, treatment at 80% cap-fall, with or without treatment before bunch closure, gave significantly better control than treatment at 3 weeks before harvest. In held trials early applications of procymidone reduced natural infection by B. cinerea better than late applications Spray application at pre-bloom followed by a second application during bloom is recommended. Procymidone, vinclozolin and iprodione at 1 g/l were significantly more effective in controlling natural infection than dichlozolinate, benomyl, captan, chlorothalonil and copper oxychloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exchange-spring permanent magnet particles of composition Pr[sub 6.93]Fe[sub 85.7]B[sub 5.95]Nb[sub 1.39] in at. % were prepared by spark-erosion in liquid argon. The best exchange-spring properties were achieved after vacuum annealing the as-sparked powders at 700 °C for ∼5 min, and did not change significantly for anneals up to 120 min. This behavior suggests that the equilibrium dimensions of the "hard" and "soft" phases were determined by the sizes of the spark-eroded particles in which they developed. The Pr[sub 2]Fe[sub 14]B phase developed as spheres, likely single crystals, in an α-Fe+Fe[sub 2]B matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents the abstract of the study 'Exchange Anisotropy in Ni[sub80]-Fe[sub20]/Co[subx]-Ni[sub1-x]-O Coupled Films,' by M. J. Carey, F. E. Spada, F. T. Parker, A. E. Berkowitz and G. Leroux.

Presents an abstract of the study 'Magnetic Properties of Fe/Cr and Fe/Cu Superlattices,' by Eric E. Fullerton, Ivan K. Schuller, F.T. Parker, M. Grimsditch, C.H. Sowers, W. Robertson, Sudha Kumar Ph. Beliën and Y. Bruynseraede.