Thirty-two lactating Karagouniko ewes were allocated at random to four groups for 6 weeks, to examine the effect of four diets: C (control treatment, ration without algae); LA (ration with low level of algae); MA (ration with medium level of algae) and HA (ration with high level of algae); containing 0, 23·5, 47 and 94 g algae, respectively, on the enrichment of milk and dairy products. Addition of algae reduced (P<0·001) DM intake for treatments MA and HA. Milk yield did not differ between treatments but milk composition was significantly affected by dietary inclusion of algae. Milk fat content was significantly increased (P<0·001) for treatment HA whereas milk protein content was significantly increased (P<0·001) for all treatments containing algae. Milk from treatments LA, MA and HA was significantly enriched in the following PUFA: C20[ratio ]5 (n-3) (0·4–2·1%), C22[ratio ]5 (n-6) (0·8–4·1%), C22[ratio ]6 (n-3) (4·3–12·4%) (P<0·001) and C22[ratio ]5 (n-3) (2·1–3·1%) (P<0·05), which were not detected in control milk. Feta cheese and yogurts produced from the enriched milk had identical composition with the milk, and would be characterized as healthy foods. The ratio of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids was 2·5–4·5.

Existing predictive signs as available in current literature may miss potential proximal thoracic (PT) curve deterioration and shoulder imbalance, following selective main thoracic (MT) curve correction in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The present study is an attempt to evaluate and complement these signs, through a retrospective study of 56 AIS patients who underwent correction and fusion from 1986 till 2003 with follow-up 4-16 years. Forty-nine had fusion of MT curve, 7 of MT and PT. Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation in 45, Luque in 12. Preoperative data: MT 50 degrees (40 degrees -80 degrees), PT 25 degrees (0 degrees -50 degrees), shoulder elevation from -4 cm (right) to 2 cm (left), clavicle angle from -14 degrees to 5 degrees , PT bending correction from 0 to 100% and T1 tilt from -15 degrees to 14 degrees . We introduced the first rib index (FRI), i.e., the difference between the diameter of right and left first rib arch as a percentage of the sum of both diameters, averaging from -22.7 to 14.3%. (Minus signs refer to or predict right, while positive left shoulder elevation.) Evaluation included all predictive parameters as related principally to postoperative left shoulder elevation > or =1 cm, patient satisfaction and surgeon fulfillment. Postoperative correction MT curve 53% (23-83%) and PT 35% (0-100%). One progressive paraplegic started 40 min following normal wake-up test. Immediate decompression, full recovery. Three cases with wound infection recovered after late removal of instrumentation. Loss of correction > or =10 degrees in five. Fifteen had postoperative persisting left shoulder elevation > or =1 cm. Seven of these expressed dissatisfaction. Statistically FRI proved valuable predictive factor always in combination with previously described signs. We concluded that a postoperative left shoulder elevation >/=2 cm is a potential cause of dissatisfaction and may be prevented with thorough validation of all predictive signs, principally the FRI.

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A short cervix at 20-24 weeks can be predicted at the 11-14 weeks scan. The addition of a cervical measurement at about 17 weeks can improve the prediction model.

The majority of pregnant women would terminate pregnancy for lethal fetal anomaly and for an anomaly causing mental or physical handicap, even in late pregnancy.

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Universal screening for preterm delivery by vaginal sonography at 20-24 weeks is feasible and well accepted by pregnant women. This policy identifies a very high risk group that may benefit from intervention.

No abstract