Low dose radiation response curves, networks and pathways in human lymphoblastoid cells exposed from 1 to 10cGy of acute gamma radiation.

We investigated the low dose dependency of the transcriptional response of human cells to characterize the shape and biological functions associated with the dose-response curve and to identify common and conserved functions of low dose expressed genes across cells and tissues. Human lymphoblastoid (HL) cells from two unrelated individuals were exposed to graded doses of radiation spanning the range of 1-10cGy were analyzed by transcriptome profiling, qPCR and bioinformatics, in comparison to sham irradiated samples. A set of ∼80 genes showed consistent responses in both cell lines; these genes were associated with homeostasis mechanisms (e.g., membrane signaling, molecule transport), subcellular locations (e.g., Golgi, and endoplasmic reticulum), and involved diverse signal transduction pathways. The majority of radiation-modulated genes had plateau-like responses across 1-10cGy, some with suggestive evidence that transcription was modulated at doses below 1cGy. MYC, FOS and TP53 were the major network nodes of the low-dose-response in HL cells. Comparison our low dose expression findings in HL cells with those of prior studies in mouse brain after whole body exposure, in human keratinocyte cultures, and in endothelial cells cultures, indicates that certain components of the low dose radiation response are broadly conserved across cell types and tissues, independent of proliferation status.

Umbilical vein oxytocin in the management of third stage of labour.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of intra-umbilical oxytocin in minimizing the blood loss during 3rd and 4th stage of labour. Seventy-five pregnant multigravidas without any obstetric or medical complications were studied. It was found that the expulsion of the placenta was rapid as compared to the group treated with normal saline but not with methylergometrine. The drop in hemoglobin and hematocrit was comparable in patients receiving intra-umbilical oxytocin and those with active management of 3rd stage with methylergometrine.

Predictive value of the nonreactive nonstress test in evaluating neonatal outcome.

High-risk pregnancies were followed up with antepartum foetal heart testing, in terms of perinatal mortality, Apgar score and incidence of caesarian section for foetal distress to look for the significance of a nonreactive nonstress test in 143 cases. The mean sensitivity was 65.64%, mean positive predictive value was 23.12%, and mean false positive rate was 76.87% for the nonreactive test results.

Early puerperal laparoscopic sterilization--a new technique.

PIP: This paper describes the results of 23 cases of puerperal laparoscopic sterilization performed within 72 hours of delivery. A new method was employed to avoid injury to the uterine fundus and to make the tubes more accessible. Before insertion of the Veress needle, the anterior and posterior lips of the cervix were held with forceps and Hulka's uterine manipulator was introduced into the uterine cavity. The uterus was pulled down toward the introitus by applying traction to the sponge-holding forceps. Pneumoperitoneum of 3-4 liters was induced through use of a Veress needle, followed by introduction of a Storz single puncture operative laparoscope through an incision in the lower umbilical fold. Tubal occlusion was achieved with silastic bands. The average time required for sterilization from induction of general anesthesia was 6 minutes. There was no instance of injury to the uterine fundus, nor were there any cases of uterine perforation, injury to other pelvic structures, laceration of the cervix, or puerperal sepsis. At the time of follow-up 15 days after the procedure, all patients were in satisfactory condition. It is concluded that this method can enhance postpartum family planning programs. Since it can be carried out within the 1st 48 hours after delivery, the routine hospital stay of 3 days does not have to be prolonged as a result of sterilization.^ieng