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ABSTRACTChalcidids are important primary parasitoids for controlling several economic insect pests, and some are secondary parasitoids. These specimens were collected by using different traps during the period extending from November 2021 to October 2022, from various vegetable crops grown in different localities at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), New Delhi. The larvae and pupa of the pests were brought to the lab and reared for the emergence of parasitoids at 25 ± 0.5°C and relative humidity of 65 ± 5%. Eleven species belonging to four genera in three subfamilies were identified: Brachymeria bengalensis(Cameron, 1897); B. hime(Habu, 1960); B. kassalensis(Kirby, 1886); B. lasus(Walker, 1841); B. minuta(Linnaeus, 1767); B. podagrica(Fabricius, 1787) (Brachymeriinae); Dirhinus anthracia(Walker, 1846); D. auratusAshmead, 1905 (Dirhininae) and Antrocephalus sepyra(Walker, 1846); Kriechbaumerella kraussi(Narendran, 1989); K. rufimanus(Walker, 1860) (Haltichellinae). Among them six species are newly recorded from New Delhi. On the other hand, B. himewas recorded for the first time as a parasite on Leucinodes orbonalisGuenée (Lepidoptera, Crambidae).

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Volatile Anästhetika können bei maligne-Hyperthermie- (MH-)disponierten Patienten zu einer hypermetabolen Stoffwechselentgleisung, einer Laktatacidose und zur Rhabdomyolyse führen. Die Autoren nahmen an, dass die intramuskuläre Koffein- und Halothaninjektion einen stärkeren Anstieg der interstitiellen Laktatkonzentration bei MH-veranlagten als bei MH-nichtveranlagten Probanden (MHS- resp. MHN-Probanden) und Kontrollpersonen induziert. Material und Methodik: Im M. rectus femoris von 14 MHS-, 12 MHN- und 7 Kontrollprobanden wurden 3 Mikrodialysesonden platziert und mit 1 µl/min Ringer-Lösung perfundiert. Nach Äquilibrierung wurde ein Bolus von 250 µl Koffein (80 mM) an die Spitze der ersten Sonde injiziert, während die zweite Sonde mit 10 Vol.-% Halothan perfundiert wurde. Eine dritte Mikrodialysesonde diente als Kontrolle. Die Laktatkonzentration wurde spektrophotometrisch im Dialysat gemessen. Die systemischen hämodynamischen und metabolischen Parameter wurden während der Versuchsdauer überwacht. Werte sind als Median und Quartilenspanne angegeben. Ergebnisse: Die Laktatwerte vor Triggerapplikation unterschieden sich zwischen den Gruppen nicht. Intramuskulär injiziertes Koffein und Halothan induzierten einen signifikanten Laktatanstieg bei MHS-Probanden [5,0 mM (3,4–8,1 mM) resp. 3,7 mM (2,6–5,0 mM)] im Vergleich zu MHN-Probanden [1,6 mM (1,3–2,0 mM) resp. 1,9 mM (1,6–2,0 mM)] bzw. zu den Kontrollpersonen [2,1 mM (1,9–2,3 mM) resp. 2,0 mM (1,6–2,1 mM)]. Während sich die hämodynamischen und metabolischen Parameter zwischen den Gruppen nicht unterschieden, stieg die Kreatinkinasekonzentration in der MHS-Gruppe signifikant an. Schlussfolgerung: Intramuskuläre Koffein- und Halothaninjektionen führen bei MHS-Probanden zu einer zeitlich begrenzten und im Vergleich zu MHN- und Kontrollprobanden ausgeprägteren Stoffwechselsteigerung. Ein funktioneller metabolischer Test scheint als minimal-invasives Verfahren zum Nachweis einer MH-Veranlagung geeignet.

Health disparities in childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disproportionately impact marginalized populations. Socioeconomically patterned missing data can magnify existing health inequities by supporting inferences that may misrepresent populations of interest. Our objective was to assess missing data and subsequent health equity implications among participants with childhood‐onset SLE enrolled in a large pediatric rheumatology registry. We evaluated co‐missingness of 12 variables representing demographics, socioeconomic position, and clinical factors (e.g., disease‐related indices) using Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry childhood‐onset SLE enrollment data (2015–2022; n = 766). We performed logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for missing disease‐related indices at enrollment (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 [SLEDAI‐2K] and/or Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index [SDI]) associated with data missingness. We used linear regression to assess the association between socioeconomic factors and SLEDAI‐2K at enrollment using 3 analytic methods for missing data: complete case analysis, multiple imputation, and nonprobabilistic bias analyses, with missing values imputed to represent extreme low or high disadvantage. On average, participants were missing 6.2% of data, with over 50% of participants missing at least 1 variable. Missing data correlated most closely with variables within data categories (i.e., demographic). Government‐assisted health insurance was associated with missing SLEDAI‐2K and/or SDI scores compared to private health insurance (OR 2.04 [95% CI 1.22, 3.41]). The different analytic approaches resulted in varying analytic sample sizes and fundamentally conflicting estimated associations. Our results support intentional evaluation of missing data to inform effect estimate interpretation and critical assessment of causal statements that might otherwise misrepresent health inequities.

The goal was to characterize short‐term kidney status and describe variation in early care utilization in a multicenter cohort of patients with childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) and nephritis. We analyzed previously collected prospective data from North American patients with cSLE with kidney biopsy‐proven nephritis enrolled in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry from March 2017 through December 2019. We determined the proportion of patients with abnormal kidney status at the most recent registry visit and applied generalized linear mixed models to identify associated factors. We also calculated frequency of medication use, both during induction and ever recorded. We identified 222 patients with kidney biopsy–proven nephritis, with 64% class III/IV nephritis on initial biopsy. At the most recent registry visit at median (interquartile range) of 17 (8–29) months from initial kidney biopsy, 58 of 106 patients (55%) with available data had abnormal kidney status. This finding was associated with male sex (odds ratio [OR] 3.88, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.21–12.46) and age at cSLE diagnosis (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01–1.49). Patients with class IV nephritis were more likely than class III to receive cyclophosphamide and rituximab during induction. There was substantial variation in mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab ever use patterns across rheumatology centers. In this cohort with predominately class III/IV nephritis, male sex and older age at cSLE diagnosis were associated with abnormal short‐term kidney status. We also observed substantial variation in contemporary medication use for pediatric lupus nephritis between pediatric rheumatology centers. Additional studies are needed to better understand the impact of this variation on long‐term kidney outcomes.

Children with well‐controlled juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) frequently experience flares after medication discontinuation, but the outcomes of these flares have not been well described. The objective of this study was to characterize the rates and predictors of disease recapture among children with JIA who restarted medication to treat disease flare. Children with JIA who discontinued conventional synthetic or biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs for well‐controlled disease but subsequently experienced a flare and restarted medication were identified from the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) registry. The primary outcome was inactive disease (ID) (physician global assessment <1 and active joint count = 0) 6 months after flare. A total of 333 patients had complete data for ID at 6 months after flare. The recapture rate for the cohort was 55%, ranging from 47% (persistent oligoarthritis) to 69% (systemic arthritis) (P= 0.4). Approximately 67% of children achieved ID by 12 months. In the multivariable model, history and reinitiation of biologic drugs were associated with increased odds of successful recapture (odds ratio [OR] 4.79 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.22–18.78] and OR 2.74 [95% CI 1.62–4.63], respectively). Number of joints with limited range of motion was associated with decreased odds (OR 0.83 per 1 joint increase [95% CI 0.72–0.95]). Approximately half of JIA flares post‐discontinuation were recaptured within 6 months, but rates of recapture varied across JIA categories. These findings inform shared decision‐making for patients, families, and clinicians regarding the risks and benefits of medication discontinuation. Better understanding of biologic predictors of successful recapture in JIA are needed.

Background and aim: MicroRNAs (miRs) are now a well-known subject in various tumor genesis and are studied as early diagnostic biomarker. Many arrays of miRs were incorporated in the pathogenesis of HCV-related hepatocellular carcinomas (HCV-HCC). In this respect, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic role of circulating miR-21, miR-122, and miR-222 in Egyptian patients with HCV-HCC. Patient and methods: Between June 2018 and April 2019, a cross-sectional comparative study was designed to evaluate the circulating miR-21, miR-122, and miR-222 by quantitative Real-Time PCR. For analytical purposes, patients were categorized into three groups: chronic HCV group (CHC-group, n = 22), HCV-related liver cirrhosis (LC-group, n = 22), and HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCV-HCC-group, n = 54). Results: Serum levels of miR-21 and miR-222 increased with the progressive course from CHC to LC and HCC; p &lt; .001. Serum levels of miR-122 in HCC patients were significantly lower than non-HCC patients (CHC and LC patients, n = 44); p &lt; .001. However, the differences in levels of serum miR-122 between CHC and LC were not statistically significant; P = 0.8. Conclusion: MiR-21 and miR-222 could be potential markers for advanced liver damage, while miR-122 had the best diagnostic accuracy and could be a promising marker for detection of HCC.

To describe characteristics of children with enthesitis‐related arthritis (ERA) and juvenile psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who were enrolled in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) registry. All children with ERA and those with juvenile PsA were identified. Demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and treatments were described. The children with sacroiliitis and those without sacroiliitis were compared. In the children with sacroiliitis, the first visit with clinically active sacroiliitis (which came first in 72% of cases) was compared to the first visit without clinically active sacroiliitis. A total of 902 children with ERA or juvenile PsA were identified. Children with ERA were older at diagnosis (ages 10.8 years versus 8.2 years; P< 0.01) and were more likely to be male (56% versus 38%; P< 0.01). Polyarticular involvement was reported in 57% of children with ERA and in 72% of those with juvenile PsA. Of the children tested, HLA–B27 was positive in 38% of those in the ERA group and in 12% of those in the juvenile PsA group. At least 1 biologic was taken by 72% of those with ERA and 64% of those with juvenile PsA. Sacroiliitis (diagnosed clinically and/or by imaging) was reported in 28% of the children (40% of those with ERA and 12% of those with juvenile PsA). Of these, 54% of the children were female, 36% were HLA–B27 positive, and 81% took at least 1 biologic. In children with sacroiliitis, scores according to the physician global assessment of disease activity, parent/patient global assessment of well‐being, and clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score 10 were all significantly worse at the first visit with clinically active sacroiliitis versus the first visit without active sacroiliitis. In this registry, there are more than 900 children with ERA or juvenile PsA. There was high biologic use in this population, especially in those with sacroiliitis. Further, there was equal sex representation in those children with sacroiliitis.

Clinical depression is not `the blahs' but a full-scale tumble into the void that can last for months and recur over years, with devastating effects. Victims of depression account for about 60 percent of all suicides. Depression is almost always treatable yet only 20 percent of its victims seek help. Young adults are being hit hard. Researchers are gaining new insights into the disease, and have found a genetic link.

Examines how chronic fatigue syndrome is a major public-health concern and, among sufferers, an urgent social cause. Millions of people have been stricken, but the disease remains a mystery. Symptoms including neurological problems. INSET: Policeman's blues.;A doctor's visit; Trouble in the air; Taunted.

Discusses how more women are on the Daughter Track, working, raising kids and helping aging parents. Emotions involved; Men also shouldering responsibilities, but not as much as women; Average American woman spends 17 years raising children, 18 years helping aging parents; Strains on women; Few companies have policies assisting employees caring for elderly. INSET: A phone call away; Charlas Rhodes.;Hildegard Rebenack; Joan....

Reports on the Hubble Space Telescope and its flaw in one of the mirrors, called a `spherical aberration', which is causing blurred pictures of the bright star Iota Carina. Unable to fix because of grounded space shuttle fleet; Questions the nation's ability to carry out costly and expensive megascience projects; Investigating commission to report within three months; Hughes Danbury Optical Systems improved NASA's specifications. INSET: Cataract Surgery..

Discusses the AIDS epidemic and what we can expect in future years. World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Program on AIDS; WHO estimates; Drug developments; AZT and pentamidine; What HIV does to cells; National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); Breaking the cycle; Possible vaccine for the '90s. INSET: Global Epidemic.;How the virus attacks, and how to attack the....

Examines the centuries old search for a fountain of youth, which may turn out to be found in our own cells and genes, although still unanswered is the question of how to tap them. Trying to add life to years; Attitude, exercise and diet; Aging is inescapable; Slowing the basic aging mechanism.

Reports on the growing trash disposal problem quickly rising in the US. Reaction by environmentalists; NIMBY (Not in My Backyard syndrome). INSET: Teeing off on Japan's garbage (Japan's sorting of garbage), by....

Describes the images of Neptune, the Blue Planet, sent 2.8 billion miles to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory from the unmanned spacecraft Voyager 2. Data gathered; Voyager 2's 12-year mission; Differences between planets. INSET: The last picture show; Sun; Mercury.;Venus; Earth; Mars....

Discusses how the AIDS epidemic is driving the current revolution to relax drug testing rules at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and how the changes will affect victims of many diseases. Types of changes and trial efforts; Remaining issues. INSET: Changing times at FDA.;The AIDS underground, by J. Hammer..

Discusses Lyme disease, caused by an organism called a spirochete and spread by infected ticks that live in or near wooded areas and tall grass. The spirochetes live on a variety of mammals and are spreading throughout the country, causing debilitating physical and emotional problems. Cases worldwide; Spread and dangers. INSET: Warning signs.;An entire family falls prey; The proliferation of.

Talks about the recent scares and controversies over various foods and the ways they're grown or received in the US. Confusion over regulations and possible contamination; Warnings about fruit from Chile; FDA's role; Health threats; EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency's) role; Check Systems. INSET: What you see isn't all you get.;You can't just buy American..

Discusses arthritis, the nation's primary crippler, which afflicts one in seven Americans. New treatments; Many types of the disease; Its symptoms and prevalence; Research and recent discoveries; Support groups. INSET: The many faces of a mysterious disease; Eric Grant; Amy....

Reports on the research being done to understand how and why miscarriages occur. Discusses new technologies, such as ultrasound and blood studies, to detect abnormalities, and the effects of external causes, such as bacterial infections, on a fetus' development. Research; Treatments.

Report on the recent findings of potentially hazardous medical waste found on several New York beaches and others across the country. Discusses the effects of such pollution on US waters and problems of waste disposal. Waters hardest hit; Sewage found and its effects; Fears; Beach closings. See also (Time, 8/1/88, 5c, 1 map, 1 figure, p44, 7p)

Background: Poor balance associated with increased postural sway is a risk factor for the high incidence of injuries found during specific menstrual cycle phases. This fact led to the hypothesis that female reproductive hormones affect soft tissue and neuromuscular function, reducing postural balance and resulting in a high injury prevalence among female college students. So, the current study aimed to identify the influence of ovulation in association with sex hormone variation across the menstrual cycle on postural sway in college students. Material and methods: Forty female college students were enrolled in this study. They were recruited among physical therapy students at Deraya University, New Minya, Egypt. They were aged from 17 to 22 years. They were allocated to a single group. Progesterone and estradiol blood levels were measured to detect the timing of the follicular and luteal phases, and a urine luteinizing hormone (LH) strip test was used to determine when ovulation occurred. The dynamic postural sway index was assessed by using the Biodex Balance system. All measurements were taken on the early follicular (1st–3rd) day, the ovulatory (11th–13th) day, and the mid-luteal phase (21st–23rd) day from the onset of menstruation. Results: Statistical analysis showed that the anteroposterior, mediolateral, and overall sway index increased significantly during the ovulatory phase compared to the earlier follicular and mid-luteal menstrual cycle phases in female college students (P&lt; 0.05). There was no significant variance between the early follicular and mid-luteal phases (P> 0.05). Conclusions: It can be concluded that increased female sex hormones during ovulation affect postural sway, which may disturb balance and increase the risk of injuries in college students.

Background: The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella(L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is a serious and economically important pest of crucifers in Delhi, India. Larvae and pupae of the pest were collected from the cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli crops grown in vegetable fields at the farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), New Delhi-110012, from December 2021 to June 2022. The larvae and pupae of the pest were transferred to the laboratory and reared for emergence of parasitoids’ adults at 25 ± 0.5 °C and RH 70 ± 5%. Results: Four parasitoid species were emerged, viz. Apanteles mohandasiSumodan & Narendran 1990, Cotesia vestalis(Haliday, 1834), Diadegma insulare(Cresson, 1865) and Diadromus collaris(Gravenhorst, 1829). Among them, A. mohandasi, C. vestalisand D. collariswere reported for the first time in Delhi, whereas D. insulare(Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) is recorded here for the first time in India. Additionally, the first record of parasitism by A. mohandasion P. xylostellafrom Delhi was established. The highest parasitism percentage was that of C. vestalisand D. collaris. Moreover, higher parasitism rate was recorded during May 2022 in organically cultivated fields. The parasitism percentage by A. mohandasi, C. vestalis, D. insulareand D. collariswas 7.5, 22.5, 12.5 and 15%, respectively. Conversely, in conventionally farmed fields, the parasitism rates were 3.57, 16.67, 10 and 13.33%, respectively. Conclusion: The use of biological control agents particularly the parasitoids in the IPM program of P. xylostellashould be considered, thereby reducing reliance on insecticides and increasing the efficacy of hymenopteran parasitoids.

AbstractWe report about our observations during one of the major storms of the solar cycle, the so-called St. Patrick’s Day storm, which happened on 17 March 2015. The St. Patrick’s Day storm was the first storm of the current solar cycle that reached the level “Severe” on the NOAA geomagnetic storm scale. The CME arrived at the Earth about 04:30UT on the 17th, the sudden storm commencement (SSC) was recorded at ∼04:45UT followed by a quick drop of the SYM-H index. The Kp planetary index of the geomagnetic activity had reached the maximum value of 8. The z-component of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) was strongly northward at the storm’s day and altered to southward direction on the next day. The ionospheric response to that severe geomagnetic storm was detected using processed data from GPS-SCINDA receiver installed at Helwan station (Egypt; Geographic coordinates: 29.86°N, 31.32°E) with a dual frequency (f1=1.5GHz, f2=1.2GHz). Our results show that the Vertical Total Electron Content (VTEC) and the ionospheric scintillation index S4 reached the maximum value on the 17th. The ionospheric features during the storm are described within this study.

A micro‐tubular flow cell (μTFC) is presented as a novel approach for flow cell design, which differs from previous tubular approaches by its lower cell diameter (3 mm) and half‐cell thicknesses (≤850 μm). Analytical expressions for the ohmic resistances of both micro‐tubular and conventional filter‐press flow cells (cFFC) are derived, which imply that optimized μTFCs can be expected to have an at least two‐fold lower ohmic resistance compared to equally sized cFFCs in the future. The theoretical findings motivate the experimental realization of a first μTFC single‐cell unit to investigate the basic feasibility of this approach. This investigation is enabled by the utilization of a redox‐active polymer in conjunction with a commercially available micro‐tubular dialysis membrane (diameter: 1 mm). Aqueous solutions of poly(2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐4‐yl methacrylate‐co‐poly(ethylene glycol)methyl ether methacrylate) (positive half‐cell) and the Zn/Zn2+redox couple (negative half‐cell) are utilized as model electrolytes to examine the electrochemical performances of this first μTFC prototype. Furthermore, the common usage of area current densities based on the geometric area of the flow cell is critically discussed. A current density based on the cell volume is suggested as a less ambiguous and, hence, a more reliable parameter for performance evaluation. Micro‐tubular Flow Cell (μTFC): A micro‐tubular approach for flow cell design is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. The experimental realization is made possible by a combination of polymer‐based catholytes, the oxygen‐insensitve Zn/Zn2+, and commercially available micro‐tubular dialysis membranes. This first μTFC prototype is characterized by an ohmic resistance of 0.3 Ω cm3corresponding to a potential current density of 1,000 mA cm−3.

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) regulates differentiation, survival, proliferation and transformation of hematopoietic cells. Upon cytokine stimulation, STAT5 tyrosine phosphorylation (pYSTAT5) is transient, while in diverse neoplastic cells persistent overexpression and enhanced pYSTAT5 are frequently found. Post-translational modifications might contribute to enhanced STAT5 activation in the context of transformation, but the strength and duration of pYSTAT5 are incompletely understood. We found that O-GlcNAcylation and tyrosine phosphorylation act together to trigger pYSTAT5 levels and oncogenic transcription in neoplastic cells. The expression of a mutated hyperactive gain-of-function (GOF) STAT5 without O-GlcNAcylation resulted in decreased tyrosine phosphorylation, oligomerization and transactivation potential and complete loss of oncogenic transformation capacity. The lack of O-GlcNAcylation diminished phospho-ERK and phospho-AKT levels. Our data show that O-GlcNAcylation of STAT5 is an important process that contributes to oncogenic transcription through enhanced STAT5 tyrosine phosphorylation and oligomerization driving myeloid transformation. O-GlcNAcylation of STAT5 could be required for nutrient sensing and metabolism of cancer cells.

Report on the changing ozone layer and the chemicals that are depleting it and robbing us of protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The destructive chemicals are chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), which are odorless, nonflammable, noncorrosive nontoxic and used in refrigerators and plastics, among other products. CFC use, abuse and effects; Recent research on ozone layer.

Federal health officials acknowledge that many physicians need to learn more about cholesterol. Doctors have been lax in treating it because there have been no good, specific guidelines. Recommendations to the medical profession include cholesterol testing of all adults over 20, a review of family history, and treatment by diet or drugs for those at risk. . See also (US News, 10/19/87, 1c, 1 graph, 1 figure, p76, 2p)

Considers whether more questions should be asked about the safety of bioengineered food. Comments from Vice President Dan Quayle on this issue; How the bioengineering process is conducted; Research on plants that will repel pests; Descriptions of various herbicides.

Reports that the upcoming `Earth Summit' in Rio de Janeiro will be part carnival, part propaganda-fest, and a real test for the new world order. Description of the official delegation being sent by the United States; Observations by Democratic Senator Al Gore; Concerns voiced by leaders of the Third World.

Reports that members of Congress have discovered that Park Service money can be used to promote economic renewal in their districts. Until recently, nominations for battlefield sites, monuments and other categories within the national park system had to be formally reviewed by a Park Service panel. 20 sites of dubious national significance benefitting from recent congressional largesse include the Keith-Albee Theater in Huntington W. Va., Wilson Lake in Kansas and more.

Examines the emotional and financial catastrophe that shadows aging in America, which touches virtually every family at some time. Patients and families face the dilemma of providing and paying for long-term care, sometimes for many years. Spend down; Varying needs; What the country can't provide just yet. INSET: Who will look after Mama?.

Discusses the still baffling ailment called Alzheimer's, which is the fourth leading cause of adult deaths and may afflict 14 million by the year 2050. The disease is relentless and destroys brain cells, while draining family members emotionally and financially. Numbers affected; Brunt of burden; Costs of care; Need for more and better facilities.

Discusses the research on Alzheimer's disease since its discovery more than 80 years ago, which so far has produced no cause for the disease nor found exactly how it causes its damage. Long-time suspicions; Theories; Hallmarks of disease; Genetic links. INSET: Broken circuitry (Alzheimer's brain breakdown)..

Discusses the greenhouse effect and the three main points of debate over its severity and effects, and how computer models are adding to the controversy. New data; Computer research and findings; Need for caution; Effects of temperature changes. INSET: Keeping a weather eye on the mercury (variables that affect....

Discusses the dawning of a new age of environmental federalism, which has led states to pass more, and more stringent, controls over pollution than Congress ever considered. Summarizes some state efforts and why the states don't wait for federal implementation of controls.

Gives advice on deciding which foods should actually be avoided and how to understand the numbers related to chances of getting cancer. Benefits to weigh against threats; Different foods and their possible dangers; Cancer risks. INSET: Anxiety in the market..

This study proves that supporting of cobalt nanoparticles on graphene can modify its role to be the main electrocatalyst in ethanol oxidation process. The introduced cobalt-based catalyst was synthesized by reflux treatment of graphene oxide in presence of cobalt acetate at 150degC followed by calcination of the obtained product in Ar atmosphere at 850degC. Electrocatalytic activity investigation indicated that the introduced Co-decorated graphene can be effectively utilized in ethanol electrooxiation as the corresponding current density was 210 mA/cm2 (at 3 M ethanol in 1 M KOH and 50 mV/s) and onset potential of 0.33 V [vs. Ag/AgCl].

Aims:Statines, HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors, are widely used to treat hypercholesterinemia. These substances are well tolerated, but myotoxic effects have been reported. The exact mechanisms of the induced myotoxicity are unknown but an involvement of intracellular calcium handling is suspected. Individuals susceptible to malignant hyperthermia (MH) have an impaired calcium homeostasis. An in vitrotest measuring contracture responses of isolated muscle bundles is used to investigate cellular processes of MH. Aim of this study was to investigate if statins modify the contracture response of isolated muscle bundles from MH susceptible (MHS) and nonsusceptible (MHN) pigs. Methodology:With approval of the local ethics committee muscle biopsies of 18 MH susceptible and 12 nonsusceptible pigs were performed. Muscle bundles were mounted on an isometric force transducer, preloaded, and electrically stimulated. After establishment of a stable baseline, muscle bundles were exposed to simvastatin, atorvastatin, gemfibrocil, and the pure solvent. Baseline tension was measured and analyzed for changes with P< 0.05 considered to be significant. Results:There were no differences in weight, length, and predrug baseline tension between the groups. Both simvastatin and atorvastatin induced significant contractures in muscle bundles from MHS pigs. Gemfibrocil and the solvent methanol showed no effect. In MHN muscle bundles, none of the tested substances induced a contracture. Statines induce contractures only in MHS muscle bundles. Conclusion:We therefore conclude that the underlying mechanism may be a pathologic influence on intracellular calcium handling that is absent in MHN. A preexisting impairment of the calcium homeostasis seems to be necessary for this behavior because muscle bundles of MHN pigs showed no pathologic reaction. A higher muscle cell vulnerability toward statins is assumed in MHS patients. Statins ought to be used with caution in these individuals. Analogous a diagnostic workup for MH should be considered for patients with statin‐induced rhabdomyolyis.

To correlate lamotrigine (LTG) serum concentrations (levels) with tolerability in patients with epilepsy.

A nucleophilic substitution reaction between 4-tert-butylbenzyl bromide and potassium iodide has been performed in oil-in-water microemulsions based on various C12Em surfactants, i.e., dodecyl ethoxylate with m number of oxyethylene units. The reaction kinetics was compared with the kinetics of reactions performed in other self-assembly structures based on very similar surfactants and in homogeneous liquids. The reaction was fastest in the micellar system, intermediate in rate in the microemulsions, and most sluggish in the liquid crystalline phase. Reaction in a Winsor I system, i.e., a two-phase system comprising an oil-in-water microemulsion in equilibrium with excess oil, was equally fast as reaction in a one-phase microemulsion. The reactions in microemulsion were surprisingly fast compared to reaction in homogeneous, protic liquids such as methanol and ethanol. The rate was independent of the microstructure of the microemulsion; however, the rate was very dependent on the type of surfactant used. When the C12Em surfactant was replaced by a sugar-based surfactant, octyl glucoside, the reaction was much more sluggish. The high reactivity in microemulsions based on C12Em surfactants is belived to be due to a favorable microenvironment in the reaction zone. The reaction is likely to occur within the surfactant palisade layer, where the water activity is relatively low and where the attacking species, the iodide ion, is poorly hydrated and, hence, more nucleophlic than in a protic solvent such as water or methanol. Sugar surfactants become more hydrated than alcohol ethoxylates and the lower reactivity in the microemulsion based on the sugar surfactant is probably due to a higher water activity in the reaction zone.