Use of multiparametric MRI to characterize uterine fibroid tissue types

Background: Although the biological characteristics of uterine fibroids (UF) have implications for therapy choice and effectiveness, there is limited MRI data about these characteristics. Currently, the Funaki classification and Scale

Bureauonderzoek GRONTMIJ ARCHEOLOGISCHE RAPPORTEN 1209

Het onderzoek is uitgevoerd voor 31 percelen gelegen aan de zuidkade van het Winschoterdiep in de gemeenten Hoogezand-Sappemeer, Menterwolde en Oldambt. Het onderzoek heeft bestaan uit een bureauonderzoek. Uit het bureauonderzoek is gebleken dat op een aantal percelen archeologische waarden verwacht kunnen worden. Er kunnen archeologische resten verwacht worden die dateren vanaf het laat-Paleolithicum

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with cardiovascular disease risk markers

P>Recognition of the link between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has boosted research in this area. The main objective of this paper is to review the literature on NAFLD in the context of CVD, focussing on underlying mechanisms and treatment. Besides excessive fatty acid influx, etiologic factors may include components of the metabolic syndrome, cytokines and mitochondrial dysfunction. NAFLD is associated with both hepatic and systemic insulin resistance. In the case of NAFLD, the liver overproduces several atherogenic factors, notably inflammatory cytokines, glucose, lipoproteins and coagulation factors, and factors increasing blood pressure. Intervention studies on diet and laparoscopic surgery revealed improvements of hepatic fat content and CVD risk profile. Pharmacological approaches with potential benefit have been developed as well, but effects are often confounded by weight change. NAFLD is associated with an increased CVD risk profile (and hepatic risk). In order to improve CVD risk profile, prevention and treatment of NAFLD seem advisable. However, well-designed intervention studies, randomized clinical trials and long-term follow-up studies are scarce

Self-Disclosure to a Robot "In-the-Wild": Category, Human Personality and Robot Identity

Self-disclosures can be valuable and sensitive parts of the human-robot interaction. This paper investigates how far human's tendency to self-disclose depends on the topic of interaction, individual's personality and perceived robot identity (i.e., human-, robot- or animal-like). Robot's (Pepper) identity was shown in its self-disclosure, interaction behaviors (gestures, sound and voice), and ’’clothing". In an"in-the- wild" study at a science festival, 80 visitors interacted with one of these robot identities. When questioned by the robot, they disclosed more about their attitudes and opinions than about other categories. Significant correlations appeared between personality characteristics and the degree of self-disclosure, as well as differences in self-disclosure categories. The different robot identities showed no effects on disclosures

Increased Sexual Health After Restored Genital Sensation in Male Patients with Spina Bifida or a Spinal Cord Injury: the TOMAX Procedure

Purpose: In this study we prospectively investigated the contribution of restored penile sensation to sexual health in patients with low spinal lesions. Materials and Methods: In 30 patients (18 with spina bifida, 12 with spinal cord injury, age range 13 to 55 years) with no penile sensation but good groin sensation the new TOMAX (TO MAX-imize sensation, sexuality and quality of life) procedure was performed. This involves microsurgical connection of the sensory ilioinguinal nerve to the dorsal nerve of the penis unilaterally. Extensive preoperative and postoperative neurological and psychological evaluations were made. Results: A total of 24 patients (80%) gained unilateral glans penis sensation. This was initially felt as groin sensation but transformed into real glans sensation in 11 patients (33%). These patients had better overall sexual function (p = 0.022) and increased satisfaction (p = 0.004). Although 13 patients (43%) maintained groin sensation, their satisfaction with sexuality was only slightly less than that of those with glans sensation. Improved sensations helped them manage urinary incontinence, thereby improving personal hygiene and independence. Most patients felt more complete and less handicapped with their penis now part of their body image. They also reported having more open and meaningful sexual relationships with their partners. Conclusions: Tactile and erogenous sensitivity Was restored in the glans penis in patients with a low spinal lesion. This new sensation enhanced the quality of sexual functioning and satisfaction. The TOMAX procedure should become standard treatment for such patient