Enhanced Auditory Brainstem Response and Parental Bonding Style in Children with Gastrointestinal Symptoms

The electrophysiological properties of the brain and influence of parental bonding in childhood irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are unclear. We hypothesized that children with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like IBS may show exaggerated brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) responses and receive more inadequate parental bonding. = 0.024). Multiple regression analysis in females also supported these findings.It is suggested that children with chronic GI symptoms have exaggerated brainstem responses to environmental stimuli and inadequate parental behaviors aggravate these symptoms

The atmospheric fate of 1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (TBECH): spatial patterns, seasonal variability, and deposition to Canadian coastal regions

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) that are gradually being phased out are being replaced by emerging BFRs. Here, we report the concentration of the α- and β-isomers of 1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (TBECH; also known as DBE-DBCH) in over 300 air, water, and precipitation samples collected between 2019 and 2022 using active air and deposition sampling as well as networks of passive air and water samplers. The sampling region includes Canada's most populated cities and areas along the St. Lawrence River and Estuary, Quebec, as well as around the Salish Sea, British Columbia. TBECH was detected in over 60 % of air samples at levels comparable to those of 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47). Concentrations of TBECH and BDE-47 were typically higher in urban areas, with stronger correlations with population density during warmer deployments. Uniform α- / β-TBECH ratios across space, time, and environmental media indicate the highly similar atmospheric fate of the two isomers. Although TBECH air concentrations were strongly related to temperature in urban Toronto and a remote site on the east coast, the lack of such dependence at a remote site on the west coast can be explained by the small seasonal temperature range and summertime air mass transport from the Pacific Ocean. Despite there being no evidence that TBECH has been produced, or imported for use, in Canada, it is now one of the most abundant gaseous BFRs in the Canadian atmosphere. The recorded spatial and temporal variability of TBECH suggest that its emissions are not constrained to specific locations but are generally tied to the presence of humans. The most likely explanation for its environmental occurrence in Canada is the release from imported consumer products containing TBECH. Chiral analysis suggests that despite its urban origin, at least some fraction of TBECH has experienced enantioselective processing, i.e., has volatilized from reservoirs where it has undergone microbial transformations. Microbial processes in urban soils and in marine waters may have divergent enantioselectivity.</p

Chylothorax and other pleural effusions

A pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, and may represent chyle, pus, blood, transudate or other fluid. This chapter covers the pathophysiology, presentation, diagnosis and management of pleural effusions in neonates, with particular reference to the accumulation of chyle. Chylothorax is the commonest explanation for a pleural effusion in the first few days of life. It may be congenital or acquired with numerous causes. Laboratory fluid analysis, ultrasonography and plain radiography are the most important diagnostic modalities. Once diagnosed, an initial period of intestinal rest and parenteral nutrition is warranted accompanied by pleural drainage, followed by a low fat enteral feeds containing medium chain triglycerides. Nevertheless, emerging pharmacological and interventional therapies are being introduced, but surgery is reserved for when medical management fails