Visual biofeedback for shortening second stage of labor: randomized controlled trial.

Objective: To determine whether visual biofeedback can be used during labor as an effective tool for shortening the second stage of labor and reducing the need for instrumental delivery.

Methods: This was a single-center randomized controlled trial. Nulliparous women under epidural anesthesia were randomized at the point of full dilation into the biofeedback group (n = 50) or the control group (n = 50).

Hand immersion in cold water alleviating physiological strain and increasing tolerance to uncompensable heat stress.

The current study examines the use of hand immersion in cold water to alleviate physiological strain caused by exercising in a hot climate while wearing NBC protective garments. Seventeen heat acclimated subjects wearing a semi-permeable NBC protective garment and a light bulletproof vest were exposed to a 125 min exercise-heat stress (35 degrees C, 50% RH; 5 km/h, 5% incline). The heat stress exposure routine included 5 min rest in the chamber followed by two 50:10 min work-rest cycles.

Expression of vinculin in autoimmune cutaneous diseases.

Background: Reports have appeared that sera of patients with systemic autoimmune disorders have demonstrated autoantibodies to vinculin.

Objective: To determine the presence and distribution of vinculin in the skin of patients with cutaneous autoimmune disorders.

Methods: Semiquantitative immunohistochemistry investigations for presence of vinculin were conducted on skin biopsy specimens from patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV), bullous pemphigoid (BP), and various collagen vascular diseases, and from healthy controls.