Genetics of epilepsy: epilepsy research foundation workshop report.

The Sixth Epilepsy Research Foundation workshop, held in Oxford in March 2006, brought together basic scientists, geneticists, epidemiologists, statisticians, pharmacologists and clinicians to consider progress, issues and strategies for harnessing genetics to improve the understanding and treatment of the epilepsies. General principles were considered, including the fundamental importance of clear study design, adequate patient numbers, defi ned phenotypes, robust statistical data handling, and follow-up of genetic discoveries. Topics where some progress had been made were considered including chromosomal abnormalities, neurodevelopment, hippocampal sclerosis, juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, focal cortical dysplasia and pharmacogenetics. The ethical aspects of epilepsy genetics were reviewed. Principles and limitations of collaboration were discussed. Presentations and their matched discussions are produced here. There was optimism that further genetic research in epilepsy was not only feasible, but might lead to improvements in the lives of people with epilepsy.     

Perceptions and attitudes of Canadian orthodontists regarding digital and electronic technology.

INTRODUCTION: To plan for future acceptance and implementation of computer-related technology, it is necessary to understand orthodontists' current perceptions and attitudes toward emerging technologies. METHODS: An anonymous, self-administered, mail-out survey of Canadian orthodontists was conducted. The response rate was 45.6% (304/667). RESULTS: Most orthodontists indicated that computer technology could improve current practice efficiency and quality of patient care. Only 15% reported that digital models are quite or very useful; 73.6%, 69.1%, 55%, and 37.4% agreed or strongly agreed with using digital and electronic technology to consult with other dental specialists, other orthodontists, general dentists, and the public, respectively. Cost of the technology was reported as a significant or insurmountable obstacle by 54% of the respondents. Interprovincial legislation, unclear consultation remuneration guidelines, and lack of comfort with the technology were not perceived as significant obstacles. Only 36% reported security or privacy issues as a significant or insurmountable obstacle. CONCLUSIONS: Canadian orthodontists seem to view digital and electronic technology as useful and capable of improving their offices' efficiency and production. Although they are sensitive to some potential obstacles, they are willing to overcome these and incorporate the technology into their practices.     

Natural killer cell activity and autologous mixed lymphocyte response of splenic,mesenteric lymph node,and colonic lymphocytes during DMH-induced colon carcinogenesis in the rat

Twoin vitro models of immune surveillance were used to examine the immune status of the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, mesenteric lymph nodes, and spleen during the early stages of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMN)-induced colon tumorigenesis. DMH-and vehicletreated Fischer rats were sacrificed at one of three time points; one week, two months, or five months after cessation of treatment. Colonic, lymph node, and splenic natural killer cell cytolytic activity toward YAC-1 tumor targets and T-cell response to autologous la-induced balstogenesis were measured at each time point. We found little change in natural killer cell activity or T-cell proliferation induced by autologous Ia gene products at these time periods.This investigation was supported in part by grant CA26917 from the National Cancer Institute, Department of Health and Human Services.     

Scar sign of renal oncocytoma: Magnetic resonance imaging appearance and lack of specificity

This case report illustrates the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of a typically asymptomatic renal oncocytoma as a homogeneous mass of medium signal with a stellate central region of decreased signal, representing the central scar. The MRI was correlated with computed tomography (CT), ultrasound (US), and gross pathologic appearance. The appearance of a central scar is not specific for oncocytoma and does not exclude renal cell carcinoma, as illustrated by a second case.     

Chewing gum,stress and health

Hollingworth described chewing gum as ‘a technique of relaxation’. Recent research has examined this issue and there is evidence that chewing gum can prevent the adverse effects of acute stress. There are also plausible biological mechanisms that could explain such effects. It is now important to examine chewing gum and chronic stress and the present study involved a survey of this topic. The survey covered the ‘stress process’, collecting data on exposure to stressful events, levels of perceived stress and health outcomes. Frequency of chewing gum was also recorded. Potential confounding factors (demographics, personality and health-related behaviours) were also recorded. The web-based survey was completed by a community sample of 2,248 full-time workers (68% female. Mean age: 35 years, range 18–74 years). Sixty-one per cent of the sample were gum chewers. The results showed that chewing gum was associated with lower levels of perceived stress (both at work and life in general). Gum chewers were also less likely to be depressed and to have seen their doctor for high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Chewing gum was associated with lower levels of alcohol consumption and with cigarette smoking. Gum chewers were also more likely to be neurotic extraverts. Those who chewed gum were also more likely to be exposed to negative factors at work. Logistic regression analyses showed that the effects of chewing gum on stress and health remained significant when these confounding factors were controlled for. These results suggest that chewing gum may be a simple way of preventing stress and the negative health outcomes that are often associated with it. Intervention studies are now required and the mechanisms underlying the effects reported here need further investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.