Anti-Ma2 encephalitis in a phenotypic female with XY gonadal dysgenesis: A case report.

Anti-Ma2 encephalitis is an autoimmune disorder that typically involves the brainstem, limbic system, and diencephalon. It can be paraneoplastic and is more common in males. We describe an unusual presentation of anti-Ma2 encephalitis in a patient with an XY chromosome and a female phenotype. She experienced various neurological symptoms, including olfactory hallucinations, episodic nausea, per-ictal water drinking, and hypersomnolence, that were poorly controlled by antiseizure medications (ASMs) and immunotherapy. Brain MRI showed abnormalities in right medial temporal and frontal regions, and blood tests detected anti-Ma2 antibodies. Screening for malignancies yielded no tumors. Pelvic CT showed bilateral inguinal masses and the absence of a uterus, while genetic studies revealed an XY karyotype. Surgical removal of the masses, shown to be primitive gonads, offered temporary relief, necessitating ongoing ASMs and immunotherapy.

Factors affecting pedestrian behaviors at signalized crosswalks: An empirical study.

INTRODUCTION: Safety of pedestrians depends, among other factors, on their behavior while crossing the road. This study aims to assess behaviors of pedestrians at signalized crosswalks. METHOD: Following a literature review and a pilot study, 25 vital pedestrian crossing factors and behaviors were determined. Then data was randomly collected for 708 pedestrians at 10 lighted crossings in Sharjah (UAE), five at road intersections and five mid-block crossings. RESULTS: Results indicated that 17.4% of pedestrians observed crossed partly or fully on red and that crossing speed was 1.22 m/s, on the average, which is slightly faster than most speeds recorded in the literature. Moreover, female pedestrians were more likely to cross while chatting with others, less likely to cross on red, and more likely to walk slower than male pedestrians. Results also showed that pedestrians who crossed at road intersections walked slower than those who crossed at mid-block crossings. It was also found that longer red pedestrian times and narrower roads tended to encourage pedestrians to cross on red and that the majority of pedestrians did not look around before crossing. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Use of the Health Belief Model for pedestrian safety are discussed.