Search

Background: The aim of the study is to research the relationship between the severity of liver fibrosis and the burden of carotid and systemic atherosclerosis. Methods: The study includes 163 patients 40 to 64 years of age without atherosclerotic CVD or liver disease. All patients underwent duplex scanning of the carotid and lower limb arteries. All patients underwent transient liver elastometry using the FibroScan (Echosens, France). Results: Carotid plaque was detected in 110 (67.5%) patients. Based on the results of linear regression analysis, relationships between liver stiffness and carotid total plaque area (r = 0.21; p = 0.025) were found. Significant relationships were established between liver stiffness and atherosclerosis burden score based on the results of linear regression (r = 0.17; p = 0.029). Liver stiffness showed moderate diagnostic performance (AUC 0.666; p = 0.01) with regard to generalized atherosclerosis. An increase in liver stiffness >4.5 kPa was associated with an odds ratio of generalized atherosclerosis of 3.48 (95% CI 1.07–11.3; p = 0.038) after adjusting confounding factors. Conclusion: Among patients 40–64 years of age without established atherosclerotic CVD and liver disease, liver stiffness directly correlates with the burden of carotid and systemic atherosclerosis. Liver stiffness showed moderate diagnostic performance (AUC 0.666; p = 0.01) with regard to generalized atherosclerosis.

The digitalization of society is actively affecting digital transformations in the education system. Research is carried out mainly in the field of basic and secondary education, less often in the higher education system. The system of higher military vocational education is the most problematic area of research. The article discusses the trend of adaptation of methods and practices of informatization and digitalization of civilian universities in the activities of military educational institutions. The authors consider this approach to be erroneous. The paper presents the results of the analysis of existing solutions in the field of informatization of the education system of a military university. The boundaries of applicability of the main directions of digitalization of education in the conditions of a military university have been investigated. When writing this article, we applied the methods of bibliometric analysis, content analysis of publications and query statistics. As the initial steps in the field of digitalization of military vocational education, the development of an electronic learning environment system in the context of the formation of digital competencies is proposed.

Uvod: Diplomirane medicinske sestre v patronažnem varstvu se vse pogosteje srečujejo z vse hitrejšimi odpusti iz bolnišnične obravnave. Če je poročanje o odpustu neustrezno, je nadaljevanje zdravstvene obravnave na domu oteženo. Namen raziskave je bil ugotoviti, kako poteka kontinuiteta zdravstvene obravnave v patronažnem varstvu po bolnišnični obravnavi otročnice, novorojenčka in ostalih pacientov ter kako diskontinuiteta vpliva na delo diplomiranih medicinskih sester v patronažnem varstvu. Metode: Uporabljena je bila kvalitativna metodologija raziskovanja. Na namenskem vzorcu sedmih diplomiranih medicinskih sester v patronažnem varstvu so bili izvedeni delno strukturirani intervjuji. Raziskava je potekala med decembrom 2018 in januarjem 2019. Podatke smo obdelali po metodi analize vsebine. Rezultati: Strukturo opisa sestavljajo trije tematski sklopi, ki opredeljujejo poročanje o odpustu iz bolnišnične obravnave: (1) Poročanje o odpustu pacientov iz bolnišnične obravnave; (2) Poročanje o odpustu otročnice in novorojenčka iz porodnišnice; (3) Diskontinuiteta zdravstvene obravnave. Diskusija in zaključek: Izsledki kažejo, da je treba za nadaljevanje zdravstvene obravnave na domu vzpostaviti enoten način obveščanja pri odpustu iz bolnišnične obravnave. Smiselno bi bilo vzpostaviti enoten informacijski sistem na nacionalni ravni. Lahko bi nadgradili že obstoječ sistem »e-Zdravje«, v katerem bi diplomiranim medicinskim sestram v patronažnem varstvu omogočili dostop do zdravstvene dokumentacije.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os acessos intravasculares são indispensáveis nas unidades de cuidados intensivos neonatais (UCIN) nível III. A monitorização das taxas de infeção é considerada um importante indicador dos cuidados de saúde. O objetivo deste estudo é determinar a incidência atual de infeção associada ao uso de cateter central (CC), comparar os resultados com outras publicações e com um estudo prévio realizado na nossa unidade em 2011. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospetivo realizado de janeiro de 2017 a dezembro de 2019 na UCIN do Hospital de Braga. Incluídos todos os recém-nascidos (RN) com CC colocado na nossa unidade. O diagnóstico microbiológico foi efetuado através de colheita de hemocultura e cultura da ponta do CC. RESULTADOS: Foram colocados 404 CC no total, 138 cateteres umbilicais (CU) e 266 cateteres de inserção percutânea (CIP). A idade gestacional média dos RN foi 30,4 semanas (DP±3,89s), o peso ao nascer médio 1380,03 g (DP±742,68 g), com 76,03% de RN com muito baixo peso. O tempo de permanência médio dos CC foi 11,51 dias (DP±11,08 d). Obtivemos 95 culturas positivas da ponta do CC, 25 (26,32%) de CU e 70 (73,68%) de CIP. De 41 hemoculturas colhidas, 9 foram positivas (21,95%), 2 de RN com CU e 7 de RN com CIP. Os Staphylococcus coagulase-negativos foram os micro-organismos mais frequentemente identificados. A taxa de infeção associada ao uso de CC foi 0,5%. A densidade de incidência de contaminação de CC foi 20,43/1000 dias de CC. DISCUSSÃO: Comparativamente ao estudo de 2011, verifica-se uma melhoria significativa na taxa de infeção associada ao uso de CC. A taxa de infeção e os agentes patogénicos identificados são semelhantes aos de outros estudos publicados.

Background. There is strong evidence to suggest that the negative influence of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) on atherosclerosis development and progression is at least partially mediated by their proinflammatory effects. However, the effect of hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) on the subpopulation composition of circulating neutrophils has not been studied so far. The aim of this study was to examine correlations between the level of triglycerides (TGs) and the subpopulation composition of circulating neutrophils in middle-aged patients with dyslipidemia without established atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs). Methods. Ninety-one patients with dyslipidemia, including 22 (24.2%) patients with HTG, were enrolled in the study. Phenotying of neutrophil subpopulations was performed through flow cytometry (Navios 6/2, Beckman Coulter, USA). For phenotyping of neutrophil subpopulations, conjugated monoclonal antibodies were used: CD16, PE-Cyanine7 (Invitrogen, USA); CD11b-FITC (Beckman Coulter, USA); CD62L-PE (Beckman Coulter, USA); and CD184 (CXCR4)-PE-CF594 (BD Biosciences, USA). Results. Following the correlation analysis, the TG level directly correlated with the number of circulating leukocytes (r = 0.443; p

The aim of our study was to describe the psychometric properties of the structure of a questionnaire designed to assess the difficulties experienced by pre-service teachers during their pedagogical practice. The study involved 110 pre-service teachers (university students): 96 women and 14 men, with a mean age of 24,28 years (SD = 5,03). Based on our previous research, a set of 20 items was developed asking students to rate their experience on a five-point scale. The hierarchical items cluster analysis algorithm ICLUST was used to test the psychometric characteristics of the questionnaire structure. The analysis was performed according to Revelle’s guidelines. Due to the ordinal nature of items, the cluster analysis was performed on the basis of a polychoric correlation matrix. The statistical analysis was carried out using the psych package in R. The reliability of the clusters was assessed taking into account Cronbach’s alpha and Revelle’s beta indicators. Cluster fit, pattern fit, and RMSR were selected as model fit indicators. Two models were developed: the seven-cluster model and two-cluster model. The seven-cluster model consisted of the following clusters: search and selection of material (K1; α = 0,75, β = 0,75), selection of teaching methods (K10; α = 0,77, β = 0,69), classroom management (K13; α = 0,81, β = 0,72), lack of subject and pedagogical knowledge (K3; α = 0,67, β = 0,67), emotions (K4; α = 0,75, β = 0,75), time management (K12; α = 0,70, β = 0,62), and organizational difficulties (K11; α = 0,66, β = 0,60). The two-cluster model consisted of the following clusters: search and selection of material (K1; α = 0,75, β = 0,75) and general difficulties (K18; α = 0,85, β =0,75). Combining 20 items into seven clusters allowed to achieve the best psychometric characteristics of the questionnaire and to reliably assess the difficulties experienced by pre-service teachers during their pedagogical practice. The characteristics of the two-cluster model were satisfactory, and the 18-items general difficulty scale of this model can be chosen as an alternative to calculate the overall estimate of the difficulties experienced by pre-service teachers during their pedagogical practice.

Monopole solutions in SU(2) Yang-Mills theory which includes spinor fields described by the nonlinear Dirac equation are obtained. It is demonstrated that the energy spectrum of such a system possesses a global minimum whose appearance is brought about solely by the nonlinear spinor fields. It is shown that the monopole solution obtained differs in principle from the 't Hooft-Polyakov monopole in that it is topologically trivial.

In Moscow in 2017, the project named Moscow Screening for Lung Cancer was started using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for selective screening for lung malignant tumors in the out-patient facilities and polyclinics.The main goal of the project: to improve early detection of lung cancer and reduce mortality caused by this disease in the long term.The objective of the study: to assess the importance of incidental findings during selective screening for lung cancer by LDCT in Moscow.Subjects and Methods. The retrospective study included 254 randomly selected LDCT, which were performed as a part of the screening program. During the repeated examination of images and protocols, all abnormalities were taken into account (but for foci in the lungs evaluated as per LungRADS-2014).Results. When analyzing the dissemination and character of incidental findings, detected by LDCT screening, it was found out that such findings had high clinical and/or predictive value in the majority of cases. The following disorders were detected the most often (% of those with incidental finding): coronary artery calcium - 49.3%; thickening of bronchial walls - 34.9%; bronchiectasis - 34.9%; emphysema - 21.6%.During primary interpretation of LDCT results, less attention was paid to description of abnormalities but for foci evaluated as per Lung RADS-2014. Further research and organization are needed to provide detection and reasonable routing for those with incidental findings.Conclusions. Incidental findings occur in 87.1% of cases during selective screening for lung cancer by LDCT. The majority of incidental findings are located in the cardio-vascular (75.4%) and respiratory (68.3%) systems, and they possess clinical and predictive value.

Aim To investigate predictive value of procalcitonin in diagnosis of sepsis in predicting positive blood culture, and possibility to predict final outcome in septic patients. Method This prospective study involved 106 hospitalized patients who met two or more criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). In comparison to Sepsis Related Organ Failure Assessment score (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein and lactate levels were used to predict final outcome in septic patients (recorded as 28-day survival or non-survival). Using Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for diagnostic value and accuracy of different parameters with the best sensitivity and specificity for given cut-off values. Result Fifty-two out of 82 patients with documented sepsis had positive blood culture. Procalcitonin showed the best predictive value for both diagnosis of sepsis and bacteraemia with the cut-off value of 0.57 ng/mL (AUC 0.99) and 4.68 ng/mL (AUC 0.94), respectively. Serum lactate level showed the best 28-day mortality predictive value with the cut-off value of 3.25 mmol/L (AUC 0.95), and procalcitonin with the cut-off value of 15.05 ng/mL (AUC 0.92), followed by SOFA (AUC 0.92), CRP (AUC 0.84) and APACHE II score (AUC 0.83). Conclusion Monitoring of PCT in SIRS-positive patients raises possibility to distinguish between patients with sepsis and those with non-infectious SIRS. A significant correlation between PCT and SOFA, and APACHE II score in non-surviving septic patients indicates that PTC combined with clinical score could be useful for assessing severity of infection.

The author highlights the open pages of history of the Great Patriotic War within Kazakhstan. This article covers the regional aspect of GULAG-GUPVI camp system activity, shows the history of prisoner of war camps establishment, their location and war prisoners' contribution in restoration of the industry and construction of new strategic facilities within the studied territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an analysis of changes in the chemical composition of water in the oligotrophic Lake Munozero for the period from 1959 to 2019. The lake is located in the upstreampart of the Konchezero lake-river system (Munozero, Pertozero, Gabozero, Konchezero, Ukshezero). The Konchezero group of lakes is among Karelia’s unique water bodies. Of all the lakes in this group, Lake Munozero stands out for its high mineralization (100 mg/l) and low content of organic matter (Corg = 2–4 mg/l) and nutrients. Lake Munozero water features a low color index (20–30 degrees) and high transparency(4–5 m). This lake is one of the best water bodies in Karelia in terms of potable water quality. The article gives an account of the changes that have occurred over the past 60 yearsin the ionic composition of lake water, the content of nutrients, and the oxygen regime under the impact of both natural (climate change) and anthropogenic factors.

The inflow of organic carbon, nitrogen compounds and total phosphorus with runoff to Lake Onego during the last 50 years was estimated. The main factors causing changes in their influx to the lake were identified.

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of two feeding levels and two breeds on the daily activity budget of indoor-housed lactating beef cows fed total mixed ration (TMR). We used a total of 20 cows from Parda de Montaña (PA, n = 14) and Pirenaica (PI, n = 6) breeds. To evaluate the feeding level, PA cows were fed the TMR at the maintenance level and in a restricted amount. To evaluate the breed effect, PA and PI cows were fed at maintenance. All cows were video recorded for 24 consecutive hours at weeks 3, 8 and 13 of lactation. Scan sampling at 10-min intervals was used to obtain information on their daily activity budget. The restricted feeding level did not affect the time standing or lying, but it reduced the time eating the TMR and increased the time exploring and/or eating straw bedding. Both breeds showed a similar daily activity budget, except for the time that they spent foraging straw, which was lower in PA than in PI breed. In conclusion, feeding level and breed of lactating beef cows fed on TMR during the indoor housing period did not affect the main contributors to the daily activity budget.

The paper is going to describe the studies toward construction and control of an innovative semi pre-cast composite wall, as efficient system for energy saving, performance improvement and static optimization. In detail, the present paper focuses on technical and technological issues for design and construction of semi pre-cast panels, in order to achieve both high quality of the final product, in terms of tightness of connections and ease of assembly, and reduction of energy dispersions and thermal bridges.

The “floppy infant” is a well-recognized entity characterized by general­ized hypotonia presenting at birth or in early life. Hypotonia represents a diagnostic challenge because it may be the presentation sign of numerous diseases, as central or peripheral nervous system abnormalities, myopathies, genetic disorders, endocrinopathies, metabolic diseases and acute/chronic illness. Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that results from an abnormality in chromosome 15. Diagnosis is often delayed because clinical findings are relatively nonspecific and the dysmorphism is often subtle. We describe three term male newborns admitted in the first day of life for hypotonia and feeding difficulties. Pregnancy and familiar history were unremarkable. Clinical examination revealed marked global hypotonia, few active movements, weak cry, poor suck reflex, micrognathia, cryptorchidism, facial dysmorphic features: almond-shaped eyes with short palpebral fissures, narrow bifrontal diameter and short neck. Laboratory evaluations were normal. Brain ultrasound and magnetic resonance had no alterations. Cardiac and metabolic evaluations were irrelevant. PWS was suspected and genetic evaluation was performed. The methylation analysis specific for PWS confirmed the diagnosis. In the three cases it was observed development milestones delay, with progressive improvement after multidisciplinary approach. At last follow-up visit, all of them walk alone, explore the surrounding environment, understand simple language and say some words. These reports reinforce the idea that PWS should be considered in the presence of newborn hypotonia, and feeding difficulties, even in absence of typical facial features. Detecting PWS at neonatal age is important because it allows early intervention and better management of such infants.

Sheep farming systems in Spain are experiencing an intensification process, characterised by a general selection criteria of enhancing prolificacy in ewes, and by increasing indoor feeding with concentrates to the detriment of grazing. This study evaluated the effects of concentrate supplementation and prolificacy on productive and economic performance of a local sheep breed in different price scenarios. Ewes were fed forage hay ad libitum, without (in pre-partum period, PRE-HAY; and in post-partum period, POST-HAY) or with concentrates (300 g/d in pre-partum period, PRE-CON; and 750 g/d in post-partum period, POST-CON). The inclusion of concentrate during the pre-partum period (last 10 weeks of pregnancy) had no effect on the productive performance of the ewes. In contrast, the inclusion of concentrate in the post-partum period (6 weeks), resulted in greater milk yield (1009 vs. 1275 ± 89 g/d), lamb average daily gain (151±12 vs. 225±19 g/d) and lamb output (kg of lamb LW weaned). However, the greater productivity thanks to the use of concentrates did not always turn into greatest profitability, since the economic margin was highly influenced by the cost of the diet and extremely subjected to variability in price of concentrates. Hence, the inclusion of concentrates in sheep meat production was not always justified in economic terms. In conclusion, the use of concentrates should only be considered as long as prices of commodities remain low, and inadvisable when prices reach a certain threshold or are subject to certain volatility in markets.

The effects of grazing on the carcasses and meat of light lambs are unclear, mainly due to variations in weather conditions and pasture production, which affect the growth of lambs and the quality of their carcasses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding systems, which varied in intensification due to the use of concentrate, on the growth and carcass traits of light lambs and the capability of these feeding systems to produce homogeneous lamb carcasses over the course of several years. The average daily weight gain of grazing lambs, but not lambs fed indoors was affected over years. The colour of the Rectus abdominis muscle and the amount of fat were more variable in grazing lambs (from 2.7 to 6.3) than indoor lambs (from 4.5 to 5.1). Grazing feeding systems without concentrate supplementation are more dependent than indoor feeding systems on the year. This climatologic dependence could lead to slaughter of older grazing lambs (77 days) to achieve the target slaughter weight when temperatures are low or the rainfall great. All feeding systems evaluated produced light lambs carcasses with a conformation score from O to R- that is required by the market. Even the potential change in fat colour found in both grazing treatments was not enough to change the subjective evaluation of fat colour.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of undernutrition during the first third of gestation on cow-calf performance, immunological and physiological profiles during the next lactation in two cattle breeds. Fifty-three Parda de Montaña (PA) and 32 Pirenaica (PI) cows were inseminated, assigned to one of two diets (CONTROL or SUBNUT; 100% or 65% of their requirements) until day 82 of gestation, and fed 100% of the requirements during gestation and next lactation. Cow and calf performance were assessed during lactation. Colostrum and cow-calf plasma samples were analyzed to assess the passive transfer of immunoglobulins and to characterize energy metabolism. At calving, SUBNUT cows had a lower body condition score, which impaired most of the cow-calf parameters. All cows had considerable weight losses during lactation except for SUBNUT-PI cows. Colostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration was lower in SUBNUT-PI cows, and milk fat content was higher in SUBNUT cows. SUBNUT calves had lower values of body measurements at weaning, and calves born from SUBNUT-PI dams had lower milk intake and the lowest average daily gain (ADG), which was reflected in their lower plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentration. In conclusion, undernutrition in early gestation in suckler cows had long-term effects on offspring postnatal growth, this physiological evidence being more severe in Pirenaica cow-calf pairs.

The aim of this study was to analyse three commercial beef categories of the ‘Serrana de Teruel breed’ to define the appropriate commercial option. Twenty ‘Serrana de Teruel’ male calves at 9 months were assigned to the commercial beef categories (young bulls, bulls and steers), slaughtered at 12, 22 and 22 months of age, respectively. The in vivo ultrasound backfat thickness was greater than the dorsal fat thickness, and the young bulls and steers had a similar fat thickness, that was greater than the bulls in both areas. The slaughter weight and cold carcass weight were significantly different between the commercial categories. However, the differences were not sufficient to modify the dressing percentage, carcass conformation and fatness degree between the young bulls and bulls. The maximum stress of the muscle at 7 d of ageing was lower in the steers than in the young bulls and bulls. In general, the lightness of the meat in the bulls was lower than that in the young bulls and steers. The subcutaneous fat of the bull carcasses had a vivid colour and stored more carotenoids than that of the young bulls and steers. Hence, bulls produced heavier and better conformed carcasses with more edible meat and less fat than the other categories. However, steers are recommended to produce large carcasses with more trim and cover fat than the other categories. Finally, it seems that bulls are the most suitable commercial category to ‘Serrana de Teruel’ breed.

Introduction: Late-preterm infants are physiologically and metabolically immature and have important risk of morbidity and mortality. Aim: To analyze the incidence of late prematurity and its associated morbidity and mortality at a level III hospital between 2011 and 2013. Methods: This was a descriptive and retrospective study of infants born between 34 + 0/7 and 36 + 6/7 weeks’ gestation and its associated morbidity and mortality. Medical records were reviewed. Results: In a 3-year period there were 8,458 births of witch 513 (6.1%) were late-preterm infants. Of these, 99/513 (19.3%) had 34 weeks’ gestation, 145/513 (28.3%) had 35 weeks’ gestation and 269/513 (52.4%) had 36 weeks’ gestation. Late-preterm birth rate was 5.7% in 2011, 6.9% in 2012 and 5.6% in 2013 (p = 0.08). In relation to birth weight, 269 (52.4%) of late-preterm infants had low birth weight. There was an association between gestational age and birth weight (p = 0.002). Of the 513 late-preterm infants, 177 (34.5%) were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and more often at 34 weeks’ gestation (69/99, 69.7%) than at 35 (57/145, 39.3%) and 36 (51/269, 19.0%) weeks’ gestation (p < 0.001). Most frequent clinical diagnoses were hyperbilirubinemia (112/177, 63.3%), feeding difficulties (111/177, 62.7%), transient tachypnea of the newborn (71/177, 40.1%), hypoglycemia (38/177, 21.5%), intrauterine growth restriction (33/177, 18.6%). Average length of hospitalization was 12 days. Newborns of 34 weeks’ gestation were longer admitted than newborns of 35 and 36 weeks’ gestation (15.3 vs 9.8 vs 10.8 days; p = 0.002). There was one death due to sepsis after surgical correction of gastroschisis. Conclusion: The incidence of late-preterm birth remained stable between 2011 and 2013. Late-preterm hospitalization rate in the NICU was 34.5%. Hyperbilirubinemia, feeding difficulties and respiratory disease were the main diagnosis. Late-preterm of 34 weeks’ gestation were admitted more frequently and for longer periods than the remaining newborns. It’s important to pay particular attention to this group of infants.

Adjuvant therapy comprising the HER2 receptor antagonist trastuzumab is associated with a significant improvement in disease-free and overall survival as compared to chemotherapy alone in localized HER2-positive breast cancer (BC). However, a subset of HER2-positive tumors seems to respond less favorably to trastuzumab. Various mechanisms have been proposed for trastuzumab resistance, such as high HER2 to Chromosome 17 FISH (HER2/CEP17) ratios and the possibility that single agent trastuzumab may not suffice to efficiently block HER2 downstream signaling thresholds. In a retrospective analysis we evaluated whether HER2/CEP17 ratios might have an impact on disease-free survival (DFS).Clinical records of Stage I-III BC patients with HER2-positive tumors were reviewed at our institution from 2007-2013. We analyzed demographics, tumor characteristics including tumor size and grade, lymph node involvement and estrogen receptor expression as well as treatment with respect to chemotherapeutic regimens from the clinical charts. HER2/CEP17 ratios were determined by routine pathology analysis using in situ fluorescent hybridization (FISH). Upon statistical preview we defined three groups of HER2 amplification based on FISH ratio (2.2 to 4, >4 to 8, >8), in order to evaluate an association between HER2 gene amplification and DFS with trastuzumab containing therapies. DFS was analyzed using Cox-regression.A total of 332 patients with HER2-positive BC were reviewed. Median age was 54 (range 23-89) years. The majority of tumors were classified T1 (50%) or T2 (39%), node negative (52%) and of high grade G3 histology (70%). We identified 312 (94%) tumors as immunohistochemistry (IHC) score 3+ and HER2/CEP17 ratios were available from 278 patients (84%). 30% (N = 84) had tumors with high HER2/CEP17 ratios (>8). Univariate analysis found no correlation between outcome, age, histological grade, sequence as well as anthracycline content of chemotherapy. However, a prognostic impact was detected for tumor size (p = 0.02), nodal status (p8 (p12) and DFS (p = 0.01).In early BC patients, tumors with high HER2 amplification ratios (>8), may less likely respond to standard trastuzumab-containing therapies. Although, we obtained a similar effect for high HER2 gene copy numbers, this provides only an indirect speculation and not a proof that high HER2/CEP17 ratios may induce HER2 resistance.

The Pampa-Corte model developed to simulate growth of beef cattle was adapted to simulate lamb growth. This paper has the objective to describe the main modifications and the fitness of model in the simulations of lamb growth. To validate the model two datasets from Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (Zaragoza, Spain) were used. The first one used data from 29 male and 10 female lambs of Rasa Aragonesa breed born in spring of years 2005, 2006 and 2008. The second data came from 32 male lambs of Churra Tensina breed born in spring of years 2004 and 2007. The model showed good fit between observed and simulated data in intensive finishing lamb systems, although small deviations were observed after slaughtering the first animals that reached the commercial live-weight (LW) of 22kg.O modelo Pampa Corte, que foi desenvolvido com a finalidade de simular o crescimento corporal de bovinos de corte, foi adaptado para a simulação do crescimento de ovinos. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever as principais modificações e o desempenho do modelo na simulação do crescimento de cordeiros. Para a avaliação do modelo, foram utilizados dois conjuntos de dados de dois experimentos do Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón, Zaragoza, Espanha. O primeiro conjunto contém dados de 29 cordeiros e 10 cordeiras da raça Rasa Aragonesa, nascidos na primavera dos anos 2005, 2006 e 2008. O segundo conjunto com dados experimentais de 32 cordeiros da raça Churra Tensina, nascidos na primavera de 2004 e 2007. Os resultados simulados pelo modelo, quando comparados com os dados experimentais, demonstraram um ótimo desempenho do modelo, principalmente até o início do abate dos primeiros animais que alcançavam o peso meta experimental de 22kg. O modelo Pampa Corte adaptado para a simulação de crescimento de ovinos demonstrou alta precisão na simulação em sistemas intensivos de engorda de cordeiros.

Retinoic acid is a derivative of vitamin A. Retinoic acid embryopathy is an association of malformations caused by the teratogenic effect of retinoic acid, a drug used for the treatment of cystic acne. Isotretinoin is also known as 13-cis-retinoic acid. The risk of malformations after exposure to oral isotretinoin has been evaluated to be around 20%. Affected infants may present craniofacial, central nervous system, cardiac, and thymus abnormalities. There is also an increased risk of spontaneous abortions and premature delivery. Isotretinoin may also have effects on child behavior in about 30-60% of children exposed to it. Termination of pregnancy may be considered in cases of pregestational and/or gestational exposure to isotretinoin. The authors present the case of an infant male who was the first child of young, healthy, unrelated parents, whose mother was exposed to isotretinoin in both pregestational and gestational periods. He had a developmental delay, craniofacial abnormalities (low-set and dysplastic ears with anteverted lobules, frontal upsweep, hypertelorism, flat nasal bridge and prominent filter) and apparent articular hypermobility, more obvious in his knees. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed absence of cerebellar vermis, midbrain dysplastic configuration with thickened superior cerebellar peduncles, decreased thickness of pons-midbrain transition, right cerebellar hemisphere dysplasia, mild decrease in corpus callosum thickness, and enlarged pericerebral subarachnoid space. The features described are compatible with isotretinoin embryopathy, according to the literature. This case aims to raise awareness about the use of teratogenic drugs in women of childbearing age, especially isotretinoin, and the importance of information regarding effective contraceptive methods, with compulsory pregnancy testing.

Adams-Oliver syndrome was first described in 1945 as a multiple congenital malformations association including aplasia cutis congenita and terminal transverse limb defects, along with cardiovascular and central nervous system anomalies. We report the case of a boy, prenatally diagnosed with a malformation of feet and right hand. At birth, a malformation of the skull was observed, at midline and right frontal, parietal and occipital region, with meningeal exposition. He presented with abnormal feet and right hand with hypoplastic fingers and also exhibiting cutis marmorata telangiectatica. Cardiac, abdominal and central nervous system malformations were excluded. He started a conservative approach based on daily dressings. The scalp defect closed at 4 months with this management strategy. At this age, a skull defect about 5 cm long was still perceptible by palpation of the area. The boy showed normal growth and neurologic development. No complications were reported. This report reinforces the effectiveness of conservative management strategies for extensive bone and epithelization defects in syndromes of aplasia cutis congenita like Adams-Oliver syndrome.

A series of mono and di-N-2,3-epoxypropyl N-phenylhydrazones have beenprepared on a large scale by reaction of the corresponding N-phenylhydrazones of9-ethyl-3-carbazolecarbaldehyde, 9-ethyl-3,6-carbazoledicarbaldehyde, 4-dimethyl-amino-, 4-diethylamino-, 4-benzylethylamino-, 4-(diphenylamino)-, 4-(4,4-4'-dimethyl-diphenylamino)-, 4-(4-formyldiphenylamino)- and 4-(4-formyl-4'-methyldiphenyl-amino)benzaldehyde with epichlorohydrin in the presence of KOH and anhydrousNa2SO4.

Beef producers prefer to feed concentrates on an ad libitum basis to increase the flexibility of their work. Including salt, which is a self-limiting supplement, could control or reduce concentrate intake without increasing the workforce. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of including 10%NaCl in the concentrate on intake, growth, blood ions (sodium, potassium and chlorine), renal function (through creatinine and urea concentrations in blood), and daytime behaviour of bulls over 6 weeks. Bulls consuming the control concentrate (Control bulls) had greater weight gain (P

When evaluating a newborn with peculiar phenotype it is mandatory to perform chromosomal studies. In this case report, the genetic study revealed a novel de novo translocation involving chromosome 7 and 14, thus establishing the following karyotype: as 45,XX,der (7)t(7;14)(q36.3;q11.2),-14dn.ish 7q36.3(VIJyRM2185 enh).mpla 7qsubtel(P036-E1,P070-B2)x3,14q11.2(P036-E1,P070-B2)x1.

Swyer syndrome is a condition in which individuals with one X chromosome and one Y chromosome in each cell have a female appearance. They generally have female external genitalia, a normal uterus and Fallopian tubes, but no functional gonads. Its prevalence is about 1 in 30,000 births. Mutations in the SRY gene have been identified in 15-20% of the cases. The authors present the clinical case of a female fetus, who was the first child of young, healthy, unrelated parents, with increased nuchal translucency in first trimester ultrasonography and combined risk for Down syndrome of 1/20. Prenatal karyotype was 46,XY. Delivery occured at 37 weeks gestation by cesarean section. Uneventful neonatal period. At birth she had adequate weight and height and presented complete female external genitalia with no other abnormalities. Pelvic ultrasound showed normal morphology of the uterus, ovaries were not visualized. Hormonal study was normal. Repeated postnatal karyotype confirmed 46,XY. Follow-up on Neonatology Consultation as outpatient. Abdomino-pelvic MRI (3 months old) showed presence of uterus with normal dimensions and appearance and ovaries not clearly defined. The molecular genetic testing revealed the Q 114X (c.340 C>T) mutation of the SRY gene, a nonsense mutation that as not been described. Early diagnosis of Swyer syndrome in childhood is only possible if a karyotype is carried out for other reasons, such as for example as part of prenatal diagnosis (as it happened with our patient). This prompt diagnosis is important for early institution of hormone replacement therapy and close monitoring, because of the risk of gonadal malignancy. Clinical and imaging surveillance is mandatory in order to program early gonadectomy if necessary. In our patient, the novel mutation detected in the SRY gene may be an aetiopathogenic factor in clinically defined 46,XY complete gonadal dysgenesis.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to characterize infection events in a longitudinal cohort of first-degree relatives (FDR) of probands with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and explore their associations with RA development. To this end, newly diagnosed RA patients ( n = 283), unaffected related FDR and age-matched healthy women were ascertained from the Caucasian triple women prospective Tatarstan cohort. Methods: In this cohort initiated in 1997, 26/283 (9.2%) FDR developed RA (incidence: 9.1 cases/1,000/year). At baseline and during the follow-up, information regarding infectious events (prevalence) and their incidence and duration per year were collected from all individuals. Results: Results reveal in the unaffected FDR developing RA subgroup: (i) a higher prevalence and/or incidence at baseline of upper respiratory infections (URI), otitis, tonsillitis, herpes reactivation, and skin infections; (ii) Mycoplasma sp detection was increased during pregnancy; (iii) a peak of infections started in the 3 years preceding RA onset, and thereafter decreased following RA diagnosis and treatment initiation with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) when considering URI, and acute tonsillitis; (iv) herpes virus reactivation, at baseline, was associated with a higher report of morning stiffness and arthralgia while independent from rheumatoid factors and anti-citrullinated peptide (CCP)2 Ab positivity; and (v) infection events represent an independent environmental factor associated with RA development. Conclusion: In conclusion, an annual increase of respiratory tract infections was found at the pre-clinical stage of RA. This could be due to alterations in the immune system that result in susceptibility to infection, controlled by DMARDs, or that the infectious events predispose to RA.