The concept of van der Waals solid solutions has been demonstrated to yield photon upconversion (UC) organic crystals with extraordinary performance, opening a domain of versatile dispersion-force-based systems in the quest for superior UC solids.

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When using testosterone ointment as a treatment for microphallus, it should be borne in mind that this application has systemic effects.

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Background. Osteoporosis or bone fracture can be induced in nephrotic children treated long-term with high doses of glucocorticoids. The purpose of this study was to determine whether short-term prednisolone therapy affects the skeleton in children with steroid-responsive nephrotic syndrome (NS). Methods. Bone mineral density (BMD) and biochemical parameters of mineral and skeletal homeostasis in nine children (four girls, five boys) aged between 2 and 7 years at the first episode of NS were measured. Prednisolone was started at 60 mg/m 2 for 4 weeks, then decreased every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. All patients were steroid-responsive and had no relapse. All patients were examined at 0, 4, and 12 weeks of prednisolone therapy, and 16 weeks after the cessation of prednisolone therapy. Results. The Z-scores (BMD) before prednisolone therapy (Ϫ0.79 Ϯ 0.51) were slightly low. The Z-scores at 4 weeks (Ϫ1.37 Ϯ 0.46) and at 12 weeks of therapy (Ϫ1.22 Ϯ 0.36) were significantly lower than those at 16 weeks after the cessation of prednisolone therapy (Ϫ0.29 Ϯ 0.29). There was also a significant decrease in the mean serum levels of alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and urinary deoxypyridinoline during the short-term prednisolone therapy. However, BMD and biochemical parameters of mineral and skeletal homeostasis returned to normal values at 16 weeks after the cessation of prednisolone therapy. Conclusions. Skeletal effects of short-term prednisolone therapy for 16 weeks were transient in children with steroidresponsive NS without relapse.