Development of a Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for the Newborn Screening of SCID, SMA, and XLA.

Numerous studies have shown evidence supporting the benefits of universal newborn screening for primary immunodeficiencies (PID) and for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). We have developed a four-plex, real-time PCR assay to screen for Severe Combined Immune Deficiencies (SCID), X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and SMA in DNA extracted from a single 3.2 mm punch of a dried blood spot (DBS).

Use of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system and breast cancer.

Objective: The effect of exogenous hormones on the incidence of breast cancer has been extensively studied. Most studies regarding hormonal contraception have focused on combined oral contraceptives, and there is paucity of literature regarding nonoral and progestin-only contraceptives. The present study analyzed the relationship between breast cancer and use of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system.

Pharmacokinetics of levosimendan and its active metabolite OR-1896 in rapid and slow acetylators.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of levosimendan and to determine the primary pharmacokinetic parameters of the pharmacologically active metabolite OR-1896 in rapid and slow acetylators.

Methods: Levosimendan was administered as a constant rate (0.1 microg/(kg min)) i.

Gender differences in depressive symptoms. An artefact caused by measurement instruments?

Background: According to studies depression and depressive symptoms are more prevalent in females than in males. It is possible, however, that instruments meant to measure depressiveness are gender-biased.

Method: This was studied by comparing two screening instruments (the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Depression Scale (DEPS) within the same population.