Search

A recording of male and female zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata, as they were subjected to varied levels of white noise was made to test for amplitude regulation of vocalizations. Both male and female zebra finches were found to increase amplitude levels of vocalization, regardless of whether these were learned, in response to increased noise levels. Results were compared to data on amplitude regulation in humans.

Abstract: Background: The goal of this study was to assess the impact of formal opt-out family planning training on clinical competence in uterine evacuation. Study Design: Residents who participated in newly established, routine opt-out family planning training completed surveys before and after their rotations. The surveys asked residents to report clinical experience and competence in family planning. Results: One hundred ninety-six pre- and postrotation questionnaires were collected for a total response rate of 63%. After completing the rotation, residents reported higher competence in medical abortion, manual uterine aspiration, electric uterine aspiration and dilation and evacuation (p<.001). Residents also reported increased clinical experience with methods of termination, postabortion contraception, including intrauterine contraception, ultrasound and perioperative pain management. Conclusions: Participation in a formal opt-out family planning rotation results in increased clinical exposure to family planning and in reported competence in pregnancy termination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: With 1.1 million US women having first-trimester abortions annually, clinicians have an opportunity to diagnose molar pregnancy early. Early moles, however, may lack “classic” diagnostic hallmarks. Study Design: This study aimed to assess the accuracy of the diagnosis of hydatidiform mole in women seeking abortion services at a large Planned Parenthood affiliate. We retrospectively identified women with a histopathologic diagnosis of mole from the affiliate''s risk management database. The tissue specimens were reviewed by an expert independent pathologist and analyzed by flow cytometry and p57KIP2 immunohistochemical staining to clarify the diagnosis. Results: Of 21 patients who received an initial histopathologic diagnosis of mole, only six proved to have the condition. The interobserver correlation coefficient (kappa) for pathology examination was (−) 0.353. Overdiagnosis of partial moles was the most common error. Conclusions: Improved, cost-effective strategies for detection of early moles would benefit patients and providers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]