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Fungaemia diagnosis could be improved by reducing the time to identification of yeast from blood cultures. This study aimed to evaluate three rapid methods for the identification of yeast direct from blood cultures; Gram's stain analysis, the AdvanDX Peptide Nucleic Acid in Situ Hybridisation Yeast Traffic Light system (PNA-FISH YTL) and Bruker Sepsityper alongside matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Fifty blood cultures spiked with a known single yeast strain were analysed by blinded operators experienced in each method. Identifications were compared with MALDI-TOF MS CHROMagar Candida culture and ITS rRNA sequence-based identifications. On first attempt, success rates of 96% (48/50) and 76% (36/50) were achieved using PNA-FISH YTL and Gram's stain respectively. MALDI-TOF MS demonstrated a success rate of 56% (28/50) when applying manufacturer's species log score thresholds and 76% (38/50) using in-house parameters, including lowering the species log score threshold to >1.5. In conclusion, PNA-FISH YTL demonstrated a high success rate successfully identifying yeast commonly encountered in fungaemia. Sepsityper™ with MALDI-TOF MS was accurate but increased sensitivity is required. Due to the misidentification of commonly encountered yeast Gram's stain analysis demonstrated limited utility in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Raman spectroscopy of human tissue can provide a unique biochemical 'fingerprint' that alters with disease progression. Light incident on tissue is scattered and may be altered in wavelength, which can be represented as a Raman spectrum. A confocal fibreoptic Raman probe designed to fit down the accessory channel of a colonoscope has been constructed. This in-vitro study evaluated the accuracy of pathological diagnosis in the colon using probe-based Raman spectroscopy. Method Biopsy samples were collected at colonoscopy, snap frozen and stored at −80°C. Raman spectra with 10-s and 1-s acquisition periods were measured with the probe tip in contact with the mucosal surface of thawed specimens. Mathematical modelling using principal component analysis followed by linear discriminant analysis was used to correlate Raman spectra with histopathological diagnoses. Results Three-hundred and seventy-five Raman spectra were measured from a total of 356 colon biopsies (81 of normal colon mucosa, 79 of hyperplastic polyps, 92 of adenomatous polyps, 64 of adenocarcinoma and 40 of ulcerative colitis) from 177 patients. Spectral classification accuracies comparing pathology pairs ranged from 72.1 to 95.9% for 10-s acquisitions and from 61.5 to 95.1% for 1-s acquisitions. For a three-group model of normal, adenomatous and adenocarcinoma tissue, accuracies were 74.1% for 10-s acquisitions and 63.5% for 1-s acquisitions. Conclusion The confocal Raman probe system can distinguish between different colorectal pathologies. The probe has potential to establish Raman spectroscopy as a clinical tool for instant diagnosis at colonoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted an outdoor feeding trial with Golden ShinersNotemigonus crysoleucasusing diets with 22% or 28% protein from different sources. The 28% protein diet with soybean (SOY) meal was the control, and the three other diets contained 22% protein mainly from SOY, corn gluten feed (CGF), or corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS). The 22% protein SOY diet was also offered as a meal or pellet in separate treatments. Each of the five diets was fed to fish at two densities: 250,000 fish/ha (low density) or 750,000 fish/ha (high density). Fish with an initial weight of 0.25 ± 0.003 g (mean ± SE) were stocked into four 4.1-m3pools per treatment and fed daily to apparent satiation for 9 weeks. Diet effects were assessed by measuring growth, survival, feed conversion, condition index, and body composition. An enterprise budget analysis was conducted to determine the economic effects of different treatments. Fish weight gain was higher at the low density regardless of diet. Weight gain was also higher in fish fed the diet with 28% protein than in those fed other diets at either density. Relative weight (Wr) was higher at the high density and in fish fed the SOY diets compared with those fed the CGF or DDGS diets. Survival was higher at the high density, and no diet effects were apparent. Gross yield was higher at the high density and in the 28% protein SOY control. Feed conversion ratio was better at the low density. Whole-body lipid was higher in fish at the low density. The most economically beneficial diet was the 28% protein SOY diet, but producers must consider feed choice in the context of their overall business model. The 22% protein diets were inadequate for rapid growth, but did not compromise survival, indicating a possible use for maintenance feeding when fish reach market size. Received August 30, 2013; accepted November 5, 2013 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Arkansas baitfish industry leads the nation in production of golden shiners Notemigonus crysoleucas. To determine nutritional requirements for golden shiner broodstock diets, we examined the volume and lipid, fatty acid, and amino acid composition of the eggs produced by a group of captive broodstock over a spawning season. Egg volume was 0.67 ± 0.117 mm3 (mean ± SD); egg volume declined during the spawning season. Total lipid was 15.67 ± 2.99 µg/egg, and triacylglyceride (TAG) concentration was 6.82 ± 1.81 µg/egg. Based on the stability of egg total lipid, the percent neutral lipid, the consistent contribution of TAG to neutral lipid, the consistent TAG concentration, and the stable fatty acid and amino acid profiles, we conclude that the lipid and amino acids in eggs from the experimental group were stable. The eggs should be equally sufficient for embryological development throughout the spawning season, but specific indices of egg and fry quality must be measured to confirm the links among egg size, biochemical composition, and egg and fry quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brush-tailed rock-wallaby ( Petrogale penicillata) is an endangered species in southeastern Australia and many of the remaining populations are declining. The steep rocky habitat and shy nature of the species make it difficult to obtain data on population parameters such as abundance and recruitment. Faecal pellet counts from scat plots are commonly used to monitor population trends but these are imprecise and difficult to relate to absolute population size. We conducted a noninvasive genetic sampling ‘mark–recapture’ study over a 2-year period to identify individuals from faecal DNA samples and estimate the population size of four brush-tailed rock-wallaby colonies located in Wollemi National Park, New South Wales. Scat plots in rock-wallaby colonies were used as sample collection points for this study. Two separate population estimates were carried out for three of the colonies to determine if we could detect recruitment and changes in population size. We determined that there was one large colony of an estimated 67 individuals (95% confidence interval: 55–91) and three smaller colonies. Monitoring of the smaller colonies also detected possible population size increases in all three. Our results indicate that faecal DNA analysis may be a promising method for estimating and monitoring population trends in this species particularly when used with a traditional field survey method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether Raman spectroscopy can be used to differentiate between normal, inflammatory and malignant bladder pathologies in vitro, and secondly if it can used to grade and stage transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). In all, 1525 Raman spectra were measured from 75 bladder samples comprising normal bladder, cystitis, carcinoma in situ (CIS), TCC and adenocarcinoma. Multivariate analysis was applied to the spectral dataset to construct diagnostic algorithms; these were then tested for their ability to determine the histological diagnosis of each sample from its Raman spectrum. The diagnostic algorithms could be used to accurately differentiate among the pathological groups, in particular, a three-group algorithm differentiated among normal bladder, cystitis and TCC/CIS with sensitivities and specificities of > 90%. Algorithms could also accurately characterize TCC in terms of splitting them into low (G1/G2) or high (G3) grade and superficial (pTa) or invasive (pT1/pT2) stage. Raman spectroscopy can be used to accurately identify and grade/stage TCC in vitro. The technique therefore shows promise for use as an objective method to assist the pathologist in assessing bladder pathologies. Raman spectroscopy also has potential to provide immediate pathological diagnoses during surgical procedures. Following the promising results of this in vitro study, in vivo cystoscopic studies are planned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on applications and future prospects of optical diagnostics techniques that have been applied within urology. Benefits of using optical diagnostics technology in urology over other traditional methods; Working principles of fluorescence spectroscopy system.

Photodynamic therapy involves the activation of an exogeneously administered, or an endogenously gen-erated, photosensitizer with light to produce localized tissue destruction. It is an attractive, predominantly endosopic technique for the palliation of advanced upper gastrointestinal cancer and the eradication of early neoplastic and pre-neoplastic lesions. The nature of the biological response allowing safe healing and the exploitation of tissue threshold effects mean that adjacent tissue damage can be minimized. This review used a database of 368 papers. The nature of the photosensitizer is critical to the depth of tissue damage and the risk of adjacent tissue damage and stricture formation. The generation of protoporphyrin IX following administration of 5-aminolaevulinic acid has proved useful for the treatment of high-grade dysplasia in Barrett’s oesophagus. A double-blind randomized placebo controlled trial has confirmed that it is a safe and effective method for the ablation of low-grade dysplasia. The treatment of more advanced lesions requires exogeneously administered photo-sensitizers. However, recent data indicate that the neoplastic potential remains in some patients and continued follow-up is necessary. Photodynamic therapy can be used to eradicate early neoplasia and palliate advanced cancer, but caution is required before a definitive cure can be claimed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the activity of C4 acid decarboxylating enzymes, the PCR ('photosynthetic carbon reduction', or 'Kranz') bundle sheath anatomy and ultrastructure, and the geographical distribution of Australian species of the C4 grass genus Eragrostis. Species had either the even sheath outline and centripetally located PCR cell chloroplasts characteristic of NAD-malic enzyme (NAD-ME) species (29 spp.), the uneven sheath outline and centrifugal PCR cell chloroplasts characteristic of PEP carboxykinase (PCK) species (28 spp.), or were intermediate between these types (7 spp.). The suberized lamella was present in PCR cell walls of species with PCK-like and intermediate anatomy, and absent from those of species with NAD-ME-like anatomy. Biochemical determination of C4 type for 11 species, however, revealed only NAD-ME activity, irrespective of anatomical type; no PCK activity was detected. PCK-like species are most numerous in northern, high rainfall, tropical Australia and also predominate in relatively humid coastal and subcoastal areas. NAD-ME-like species are numerically and proportionally dominant where rainfall is < 30 cm year-1. Overall, as many species occur in high as in low rainfall areas. Results are discussed in relation to previously established anatomical/ultrastructural/geographical/biochemical correlations and to infrageneric taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Partially purified tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase from Escherichia coli B was incubated either in the presence of [14C]tyrosine and ATP or [14C]tyrosyl-tRNA and AMP, or [3H]tyrosinyl-AMP, a structural analogue of tyrosyl-AMP. After filtration on a Sephadex G-75 column, [14C]tyrosyl-AMP:Enzyme and [3H]tyrosinyl-AMP:Enzyme complexes were isolated. The [14C]tyrosine is transferred directly from [14C]tyrosyl-AMP:Enzyme to the tRNA; no such transfer was observed width the [3H]tyrosinyl-AMP:Enzyme. The stability of the tyrosyl-AMP:Enzyme complex was examined under different conditions: (a) its half-life at pH 7.0 is 150 minutes at 0°, 35 minutes at 20°, and 5 minutes at 37° this instability is due to the non-enzymatic hydrolysis of the anhydride bond; (b) its stability is affected neither by the presence of homologous or heterologous tRNAs which do not accept tyrosine, nor by the presence of ATP and/or tyrosine; (c) when the pre-formed complex is incubated with tyrosinyl-AMP in conditions where this analogue inhibits completely tyrosyl-AMP: Enzyme formation from ATP and tyrosine, tyrosyl-AMP is not exchanged with tyrosinyl-AMP. The stability of tyrosinyl-AMP: Enzyme was also studied: after incubation for 30 minutes at 37°, or for several days at 4°, 90% of the [3H]tyrosinyl-AMP was found associated with the enzyme after gel filtration. The complex remains unaffected when incubated in the presence of inorganic pyrophosphate, ATP or tRNA, but in the presence of tyrosinyl-AMP, tyrosinol andATP or tyrosine and ATP, only 20% of [3H]tyrosinyl-AMP remained bound to the enzyme. These results show that tyrosyl-AMP does not dissociate from the enzyme while tyrosinyl-AMP does. It follows that, despite the great similarity of tyrosyl-AMP and tyrosinyl-AMP, the differences between the anhydride and the ester bond seem to influence decisively the stability of the complexes formed with the enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 66-year-old woman with a history of atopic eczema and itching and erythema who took left patello-femoral joint replacement for treatment of osteoarthritis. It notes that the itching and erythema occured after application of undyed vicryl subcuticular sutures and Dermabond capable of closing the wound. Patch testing was performed and found the existence of positive reaction to ethyl cyanoacrylate and Dermabond.

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a rare cause of peristomal skin problems. Only 23 cases have previously been reported in the literature. We report the case of a colostomy patient with a severe disabling blistering peristomal dermatitis. Patch testing to a British Contact Dermatitis Society standard series, medicaments and a plastics and glues series was negative. Patch testing to the patient's own products gave a positive reaction (+) at D2 and D4 to Dansac® soft paste and Stomahesive® paste. Further patch testing to the components of Dansac® soft paste showed a positive (+) reaction at D2 and D4 to ester of polymethyl vinyl/maleic acid copolymer (Gantrez®-ES) only. This is the first reported case of ACD due to Dansac® soft paste. ACD to Gantrez® has previously been reported but in different products. We also review the other previously reported cases of ACD causing peristomal dermatitis and stress the importance of patch testing in these cases, in particular to the patient's own products, as avoidance of identified allergens can have a large impact on the quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the case of contact dermatitis resulting from exposure to polyvinylpyrrolidone/1-triacontene copolymer in a sunscreeen. Photopatch test; Water-resistant nature of formulation; Implications of increase in skin cancer prevalence and promotion of use of suncreens.

The article cites a case of a 59-year-old non-atopic woman who developed allergic contact dermatitis to the peppermint foot spray as a secondary event to golfer's vasculitis. The woman had overlying eczematous changes upon examination and her skin biopsy showed histological features of golfers' vasculitis. The patient undergone patch testing with the British Contact Dermatitis Society standard series and peppermint spray. The patient showed a positive reaction to peppermint fragrances.

The article presents the case of a 73-year-old man who developed contact dermatitis from polyethylene glycol (PEG)-7 hydrogenated castor oil. The patient presented with an eczematous rash on the face and neck after application of a sunscreen lotion. Patch testing indicated a positive reaction.The authors state that to their knowledge, this is the first report of an allergic response to a castor oil polyethylene glycol compound.

The article focuses on a 55-year-old woman patient with a two-year history of fingertip dermatitis. She had worked as a secretary in a ceramic factory, but never had been employed as a ceramic production worker. On focused questioning, the patient recalled using a rubber kidney, which was used by the production workers to smooth decorative adhesive designs onto ceramic products, as a stress ball during her coffee breaks. Since she had not handled a kidney, her hand dermatitis stopped.

Presents four cases of allergic contact dermatitis to phthalic anhydride/trimellitic anhydride/glycols copolymer in nail varnish. Case report of a 21-year-old woman had a 12-month history of periorbital and fingertip eczema; Case report of a 55-year-old nurse suffered from periungual dermatitis affecting all her fingers.

Reports on a case of allergic contact dermatitis to drometrizole trisiloxane in a sunscreen with concomitant sensitivities to other sun screens. Clinical manifestations; Patch testing results.

Temporary‘black henna’ tattoos are an increasingly popular body decoration with a growing incidence of associated adverse events. We report the case of a 14 year old girl presenting with an acute allergic contact dermatitis to hair dyes. Some years previously she had a‘black henna’ tattoo with prior application of a tacky transfer to the skin to outline the design followed some days later by an acute localised blistering reaction. Patch testing to an extended British Contact Dermatitis Society standard series showed relevant positive reactions to paraphenlyenediamine(PPD) and thiuram mix, as well as to several of the azo disperse dyes. We went on to perform prick testing to natural rubber latex(NRL), showing a positive reaction to the commercial HEP 100 concentration. We propose that through the initial acute reaction caused by PPD in the‘black henna’ our patient was not only sensitized to PPD, but also to thiuram and natural rubber latex which may have been present in the tacky transfer applied prior to‘tattooing.’ We would add that temporary‘black henna’ tattoos may have more important consequences than previously thought on patients’ future health by sensitization to NRL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents case reports of women experiencing compound allergy to Unguentum, a type of emollient. Development of contact dermatitis; Result of patch testing; Potential for misdiagnosis in compound allergy.

Presents case reports of women experiencing compound allergy to Unguentum, a type of emollient. Development of contact dermatitis; Result of patch testing; Potential for misdiagnosis in compound allergy.

Examines the effectiveness of raman spectroscopy in early diagnosis of laryngeal malignancy. Description of raman spectroscopy; Distinction between pre-malignant and malignant lesions rom normal tissue; Role of the technique in assessing the adequacy of resection margins.

Examines the case of a woman suffering from occupational contact dermatitis resulting from a garlic and herb mixture. False-positive irritant reactions; Marker of coexistent allergy to spice; Classical pattern of dermatitis due to contact with garlic.

Aims: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabis-derived medicinal product with potential application in a wide-variety of contexts; however, its effective dose in different disease states remains unclear. This review aimed to investigate what doses have been applied in clinical populations, in order to understand the active range of CBD in a variety of medical contexts., Methods: Publications involving administration of CBD alone were collected by searching PubMed, EMBASE and ClinicalTrials.gov., Results: A total of 1038 articles were retrieved, of which 35 studies met inclusion criteria covering 13 medical contexts. Twenty-three studies reported a significant improvement in primary outcomes (e.g. psychotic symptoms, anxiety, seizures), with doses ranging between <1 and 50 mg/kg/d. Plasma concentrations were not provided in any publication. CBD was reported as well tolerated and epilepsy was the most frequently studied medical condition, with all 11 studies demonstrating positive effects of CBD on reducing seizure frequency or severity (average 15 mg/kg/d within randomised controlled trials). There was no signal of positive activity of CBD in small randomised controlled trials (range n = 6-62) assessing diabetes, Crohn's disease, ocular hypertension, fatty liver disease or chronic pain. However, low doses (average 2.4 mg/kg/d) were used in these studies., Conclusion: This review highlights that CBD has a potential wide range of activity in several pathologies. Pharmacokinetic studies as well as conclusive phase III trials to elucidate effective plasma concentrations within medical contexts are severely lacking and highly encouraged., (© 2019 The Authors. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.)