Search

The global variation in type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence rates is one of the most significant observed for any non-communicable disease. Geographical patterns in incidence suggest that low sun exposure may contribute to the wide disparity, with incidence rates generally increasing with distance from the Equator. T1D development is associated with hyperactivity of the adaptive immune system leading to autoimmune destruction of insulin-secreting pancreatic β cells. Both exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and vitamin D, with their known immunosuppressive effects, have the potential to delay or inhibit the disease. Efforts to confirm the role of UVR by vitamin D dependent and independent pathways in the pathogenesis of T1D have been challenged by inconsistent results among studies. Human observational studies and animal and in vitro experiments indicate that at least some of the benefits of sun exposure come from improved vitamin D status. There is no evidence of benefit for T1D risk of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy at current recommended levels (400 IU per day); but some evidence supports that higher sun exposure and/or vitamin D sufficiency in pregnancy, or supplementation in early life, decreases T1D risk. Further research is required to confirm an association between UVR exposure and T1D and clarify the mechanisms involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo determine the rate of progression of eyes with subclinical diabetic macular edema (DME) to clinically apparent DME or DME necessitating treatment during a 2-year period.MethodsIn all, 43 eyes from 39 study participants with subclinical DME, defined as absence of foveal center edema as determined with slit lamp biomicroscopy but a center point thickness (CPT) between 225 and 299 μm on time domain (Stratus, Carl Zeiss Meditec) optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, were enrolled from 891 eyes of 582 subjects screened. Eyes were evaluated annually for up to 2 years for the primary outcome, which was an increase in OCT CPT of at least 50 μm from baseline and a CPT of at least 300 μm, or treatment for DME (performed at the discretion of the investigator).ResultsThe cumulative probability of meeting an increase in OCT CPT of at least 50 μm from baseline and a CPT of at least 300 μm, or treatment for DME was 27% (95% confidence interval (CI): 14%, 38%) by 1 year and 38% (95% CI: 23%, 50%) by 2 years.ConclusionsAlthough subclinical DME may be uncommon, this study suggests that between approximately one-quarter and one-half of eyes with subclinical DME will progress to more definite thickening or be judged to need treatment for DME within 2 years after its identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large area proportional counter (LAPC) X-ray detector and a method for calibrating the detector system for238Pu contamination in soils has been developed. The system utilizes the LAPC to measure the L X-ray triplet emitted in the decay of238Pu at energies of 13.6, 17.13, and 20.29 keV. The LAPC has dimensions of 16.5'70.5'5.9 cm3(L'W'H) and is filled with a mixture of 90% xenon and 10% methane at a pressure of 0.15 MPa. The detector has a thin (0.025 cm) beryllium window and aluminum support grid with an effective area of 850 cm2. The detector was calibrated for efficiency via semi-empirical methodology consisting of measurements with International Atomic Energy Agency and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable sources combined with fluence rate calculations using Monte Carlo and point-kernel modeling scenarios. The detector efficiency was then empirically measured using NIST traceable soil standards, and the results were compared with the semi-empirical modeled value. Operational performance characteristics including detector field of view, lower limit of detection, and energy resolution of the system were also determined through a series of controlled measurements. The LAPC and associated electronics are mounted on a pushcart with a computer and global positioning system to allow for real-time surveying and mapping of potentially contaminated land areas and detecting238Pu contamination at concentrations of 1.9 Bq/g of soil. The system, measurement methods, and results are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a full-term infant with failed respiratory effort and decerebrate posturing following in utero exposure to paroxetine. All signs and symptoms associated with the paroxetine exposure were resolved by the second day of life. Upon discharge, the infant revealed a normal neurodevelopmental examination.Journal of Perinatology (2007) 27, 517–518; doi:10.1038/sj.jp.7211772 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]