A virtual environment for surgical image guidance in intraoperative MRI.

Intraoperative MRI has recently entered the operating room as a new imaging modality. Customized visualization systems might further facilitate the use of this imaging technology. A visualization system for use in the interventional MRI has been developed, providing a virtual environment for surgical navigation using real-time images and for controlling the scanner. The visualization system has customized features for certain clinical applications. A training and testing facility has also been established. The introduction of the visualization system in the interventional MRI overcame several ambiguities and inconsistencies that were previously present, and resulted in a more transparent man-machine interface approach. A pilot study using the software to place cryoprobes in an animal liver showed promising results. Augmentation of real-time MR images with 3D rendering and customized navigation features opens new possibilities in intraoperative MRI. The described system can also be extended to other intraoperative imaging modalities.     

Signal transduction in Sj?gren's syndrome T cells. Abnormalities associated with a newly described human A-type retrovirus.

OBJECTIVE. To study the effects of a novel A-type retrovirus, detected in cocultures of lip biopsy specimens from Sj?gren's syndrome (SS) patients and a human T cell line, on the infected T cells. METHODS. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-6 secretion were measured by bioassay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively, in the infected and noninfected cell lines. Surface antigen expression was determined by flow cytometry, using monoclonal antibodies. Protein kinase C (PKC) activity was measured using an enzyme assay kit, and calcium mobilization was assessed with a fluorescent probe. RESULTS. Infected cells expressed less CD4 and IL-6 receptor, but more HLA-DR, compared with noninfected cells. Infected cells also produced less IL-2 and displayed reduced PKC activation and calcium mobilization. A similar defect in calcium mobilization was detected in T cells from SS patients. CONCLUSION. These data suggest a possible involvement of the newly described retrovirus in T cell abnormalities.     

USA300 methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Norway

Moen AEF*, Tannæs TM, Leegaard TM. USA300 methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Norway. Community‐associated methicillin‐resistant S. aureus USA300 is known for its ability to disseminate and colonize and the clone has been detected globally. We studied the most populated area in Norway in search for the strain and for signs of endemic establishment. Strain typing techniques such as spa‐, SCCmec‐ and dru‐typing, pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis and detection of USA300 molecular markers, lukS/F‐PV and arcA, were performed. USA300 has been present in the study area since 2003 and has increased in incidence in parallel with the total MRSA incidence. Most USA300 isolates were found in the community, but isolates were also detected in health care institutions.     

Does the Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management programme improve child–teacher relationships in childcare centres? A 1-year universal intervention in a Norwegian community sample

European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - The Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management (IY TCM) programme has shown promise in reducing behaviour problems among high-risk children in...