bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small-angle scattering from three-phase samples: application to coal undergoing an extraction process
Authors: Ciccariello Salvino , Riello Pietro
Published: March 2007

The correlation functions of samples made up of three homogeneous phases, with a fixed geometrical configuration and different scattering densities, are linearly related among themselves. The same is true of the corresponding scattering intensities. The property holds approximately true if the phase boundaries of some of the previous samples are slightly modified. The analytical expressions of the coefficients involved in the relevant linear combinations are derived and applied to obtain the volume fractions and the scattering densities of the three phases of a coal from its small-angle scattering intensities collected during an extraction process.
Alcohol drinking pattern and non‐fatal myocardial infarction in women
Authors: Dorn Joan M. , Hovey Kathleen , Williams Brent A. , Freudenheim Jo L. , Russell Marcia , Nochajski Thomas H. , Trevisan Maurizio
Published: March 2007

Aims  Evidence continues to emerge indicating the pattern of alcohol consumption has important implications for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, although the majority of studies have focused on men. The aim of the study is to examine the association between alcohol volume and various drinking patterns and non‐fatal myocardial infarction (MI) in women aged 35–69 years.

Design and setting  Population‐based case–control study, 1996–2001.

Participants  Incident MI cases (n = 320) recruited from Western NY hospitals, controls (n = 1565) identified from motor vehicle rolls and Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) files.

Measurements  Incident MI, volume and drinking patterns for the 12–24 months prior to interview (controls) or MI (cases) were assessed in detail.

Findings  Of cases and controls, 13% were life‐time abstainers; current drinkers averaged 2.3 ± 2.2 drinks/drinking day. Compared to life‐time abstainers, current drinkers tended to have a reduced likelihood of MI [odds ratio (OR), 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.43–1.03]. Volume, drinks/drinking day and frequency were associated inversely with MI risk (P trends < 0.001). Wine drinkers (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.33–0.96) and consumers of mixed beverage types (OR, 0.56, 0.31–1.01) had lower odds of MI compared to abstainers. Among current drinkers, for volume and most patterns, similar but somewhat weaker associations were noted than when abstainers were the reference. In contrast, frequency of intoxication at least once/month or more was associated with a strong increased risk compared to abstention (OR, 2.90; 95% CI 1.01–8.29) or in current drinkers, never drinking to this extent (OR, 6.22; 95% CI 2.07–18.69).

Conclusion  In this population of light to moderate drinkers, alcohol consumption in general was associated with decreased MI risk in women; however, episodic intoxication was related to a substantial increase in risk.
Comparison of the analgesic efficacy and respiratory effects of morphine, tramadol and codeine after craniotomy*
Authors: Sudheer P. S. , Logan S. W. , Terblanche C. , Ateleanu B. , Hall J. E.
Published: March 2007

Pain after craniotomy remains a significant problem. The effect of morphine and tramadol patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) on arterial carbon dioxide tension is unknown in patients having such surgery. Sixty craniotomy patients were randomly allocated to receive morphine PCA, tramadol PCA or codeine phosphate 60 mg intramuscularly. Baseline values of pain score (0–10), sedation and arterial carbon dioxide tension were recorded at the time of first analgesic administration and at 30 min, 1, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 h. Patient satisfaction was assessed at 24 h. There were no differences in arterial carbon dioxide tension or sedation between groups at any time, but in all three groups some patients had rises greater than 1 kPa. Morphine produced significantly better analgesia than tramadol at all time points (p < 0.005) and better analgesia than codeine at 4, 12 and 18 h. Patients were more satisfied with morphine than with codeine or tramadol (p < 0.001). Vomiting and retching occurred in 50% of patients with tramadol, compared with 20% with morphine and 29% with codeine.
Supporting special needs in the mainstream classroom: children's perceptions of the adult role
Authors: Bowers T
Published: March 2007

Inclusion of children with significant special educational needs within the ordinary classroom frequently involves additional human resources. In the UK, specialist teachers and classroom assistants (teachers’aides) are now a regular feature of many classrooms. Their purpose is to provide advice and support to the teacher and/or specifically to assist the child with special educational needs in accessing the mainstream curriculum. There has been little research into the Impact of these additional adults on children not designated as having special educational needs, although their attitudes and responses are likely to prove critical to the success of any policy of inclusive education. This study examines the responses of 713 children (ages 7–14+) attending 27 schools in London to questions relating to the role of adults supporting special educational needs (SEN) children in their classrooms and to the social desirability of being singled out for support. The findings suggest that the majority of those responding saw the support being directed towards the teacher's needs. The recognition of pupils’needs was less frequently expressed. The desirability of support became challenged by some children in the upper age range of the sample. Reasons for this and the implications for Inclusive education are considered.
Detection of behavioural and emotional problems in deaf children and adolescents: comparison of two rating scales
Authors: Vostanis P , Hayes M , Du Feu M , Warren J
Published: March 2007

The aim of this study was to establish rates of behavioural and emotional problems, and of social maladjustment, In a population of deaf children, particularly in relation to different methods of communication. The parents of 84 children who attended two schools for the deaf took part. They completed the parents’checklist (PCL), a behaviour rating scale for deaf children, and the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL), a measure widely used in the general population. The two instruments were significantly correlated on the severity of behavioural and emotional problems, but their previously established cut‐off scores detected different rates of possible clinical cases, i.e. children with mental health disorders. According to the CBCL, 40|X% of children were within the clinical range, and 82|X% were socially dysfunctional compared with the general population. The PCL identified a much higher percentage (77|X%of caseness. Behavioural and emotional problems were significantly higher in Asian children. Although all subjects used sign language, the additional use of speech, which may indicate increased hearing ability, had a protective effect for adolescents. The findings are discussed in relation to the validation of the instruments and the development of intervention programmes for deaf children.
A Caucasian male with very low blood cholesterol and low apoA‐II without evidence of atherosclerosis
Authors: Park S. H. , Kim J.‐R. , Park J. E. , Cho K. H.
Published: March 2007

Background  It is well known that a high level of apolipoprotein (apo) A‐II can be associated with familial combined hyperlipidaemia, and that high apolipoprotein profiles can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. The serum lipoprotein/apolipoprotein profile of a Caucasian patient who had unusually low serum total cholesterol (83 mg dL−1) and triglyceride (28 mg dL−1) levels despite a high body mass index (33·5 kg m−2), is the subject of this report.

Materials and methods  Each lipoprotein was isolated from serum by sequential ultracentrifugation, and serum and lipoprotein lipids and proteins were determined. The cholesteryl ester (CE) conversion ability of lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase and CE transfer activity of CE transfer protein were assayed, and the composition of apolipoprotein and lipoprotein−1 was analyzed by electrophoresis and Western blot analysis.

Results  Electrophoresis and immunodetection analyses revealed a 60% decrease in the apoA‐II band intensity compared to normal reference serum. The decreased apoA‐II was associated with reduced very low density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and protein content, as well as a greater high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)2 size with high cholesterol content. The CE conversion activity and CE transfer activity of HDL3 were almost totally lacking in the hypolipidaemic serum, although the expression level of lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase was normal. Electron microscopy revealed that the obese patient had larger HDL2 and HDL3 particle sizes than those of reference serum.

Conclusion  These results suggest that a decreased apoA‐II protein in serum and increased HDL‐cholesterol and particle size might protect against hyperlipidaemia and the atherosclerotic process, even in a patient with severe obesity.
Mitochondrial function and endocrine diseases
Authors: Stark R. , Roden M.
Published: March 2007

Mitochondria are fundamental for oxidative energy production and impairment of their functionality can lead to reduced ATP synthesis and contribute to initiation of apoptosis. Endocrine tissues critically rely on oxidative phosphorylation so that mitochondrial abnormalities may either be causes or consequences of diminished hormone production or action. Abnormalities typical for diseases caused by mitochondrial DNA mutations such as Kearns–Sayre syndrome or mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke–like episodes syndrome are also seen in certain endocrine diseases. Lack or excess of thyroid hormones, major ubiquitous regulators of mitochondrial content and activity, cause muscular abnormalities and multisystem disorders. Mitochondria are a further prerequisite for steroidogenesis as well as insulin secretion and action. Recent studies showed that reduced mitochondrial ATP synthesis in skeletal muscle is a feature of certain hereditary and acquired forms of insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. Finally, ageing is not only accompanied by various degrees of hormonal deficiency and insulin resistance but is also associated with a progressive decline of mitochondrial number and function. Future research is needed to examine whether mitochondrial abnormalities are the cause or consequence of ageing and frequent metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to address mitochondria as a target for novel therapeutic regimes.
Right ventricular performance in severe obesity. Effect of weight loss
Authors: Maniscalco M. , Arciello A. , Zedda A. , Faraone S. , Verde R. , Giardiello C. , Cacciapuoti F. , Cacciapuoti F. , Sofia M.
Published: March 2007

Background  The effects of severe obesity on right ventricular function in the absence of associated cardiopulmonary disease are not well known. Right myocardial performance index (R‐MPI) is an echocardiographic index to non‐invasively assess the right ventricular function.

The aim of our study was to assess R‐MPI in individuals with severe but uncomplicated obesity before and after a significant weight loss induced by bariatric surgery.

Patients and methods  Fifteen obese females (OB) without cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases were examined. In all subjects, R‐MPI was calculated by Doppler echocardiography as the sum of isovolumetric contraction time and isovolumetric relaxation time divided by ejection time. Furthermore, pulmonary function test (PFT) and 6‐min walking test (6mWT) were performed. Ten healthy subjects with normal weight (HS) were also evaluated as controls. R‐MPI, PFT and 6mWT were also re‐evaluated one year later in 12 obese subjects treated with gastric banding after a consistent weight loss (> 20%).

Results  A prolongation of R‐MPI was found in OB before bariatric surgery in comparison to the HS (0·47 ± 0·04 and 0·29 ± 0·05, respectively; P < 0·001). R‐MPI significantly improved in OB 12 months after surgery (0·32 ± 0·03) and was no longer different from HS. R‐MPI positively correlated to body mass index (BMI). A significant association was found between the reduction of BMI after bariatric surgery and the distance walked during the 6mWT.

Conclusions  These results show a right ventricular dysfunction in severe uncomplicated obesity, associated with an impaired functional capacity which recovers after consistent weight loss.
Radial pressure waveform dP/dt max is a poor indicator of left ventricular systolic function
Authors: Sharman J. E. , Qasem A. M. , Hanekom L. , Gill D. S. , Lim R. , Marwick T. H.
Published: March 2007

Background  The first derivative of left ventricular (LV) pressure over time (dP/dt max) is a marker of LV systolic function that can be assessed during cardiac catheterization and echocardiography. Radial artery dP/dt max has been proposed as a possible marker of LV systolic function and we sought to test this hypothesis.

Materials and methods  We compared simultaneously recorded radial dP/dt max (by high‐fidelity tonometry) with LV dP/dt max (by high‐fidelity catheter and echocardiography parameters analogous to LV dP/dt max). In study 1, beat‐to‐beat radial dP/dt max and LV dP/dt max were recorded at rest and during supine exercise in 12 males (aged 61 ± 12 years) undergoing cardiac catheterization. In study 2, 2D‐echocardiography and radial dP/dt max were recorded in 54 patients (separate to study 1; 39 men; aged 64 ± 10 years) at baseline and peak dobutamine‐induced stress. Three basal septum measures were taken as being analogous to LV dP/dt max: 1. Peak systolic strain rate; 2. Strain rate (SR‐dP/dt max) during isovolumic contraction (IVCT) and; 3. Tissue velocity during IVCT.

Results  In study 1 there was a significant difference between resting LV dP/dt max (1461 ± 383 mmHg s−1) and radial dP/dt max (1182 ± 319 mmHg s−1; P < 0·001), and a poor, but statistically significant, correlation between the variables (R2 = 0·006; P < 0·05). Similar results were observed during exercise. In study 2 there were weak (R2 = −0·12; P = 0·01) to non‐significant associations between radial dP/dt max and all echocardiographic measures analogous to LV dP/dt max at rest or peak stress.

Conclusion  Radial pressure waveform dP/dt max is not a reliable marker of LV systolic function.
Glucose transporter expression on the plasma membrane of resting and activated white blood cells
Authors: Maratou E. , Dimitriadis G. , Kollias A. , Boutati E. , Lambadiari V. , Mitrou P. , Raptis S. A.
Published: March 2007

Background  In white blood cells (WBC), the increase in glucose utilization is a prominent feature during immune response and this depends on the function of specific glucose transporter (GLUT) isoforms. The objective was to examine the effects of activation by Phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and insulin on the expression of GLUT isoforms in all subpopulations of WBC.

Materials and methods  Blood was withdrawn from 27 healthy subjects. The expression of GLUT1, GLUT3 and GLUT4 on the plasma membrane of resting and activated monocytes, T‐ and B‐lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) was determined in the absence and presence of physiological concentrations of insulin, by flow cytometry.

Results  GLUT1 did not respond to insulin in either resting or PMA/LPS activated state. In the resting state, monocytes and B‐lymphocytes increased the abundance of GLUT3 and GLUT4 on their plasma membrane in response to insulin; in contrast, T‐lymphocytes and PMNs were unresponsive to insulin. In the activated state, monocytes, B‐ and T‐ lymphocytes increased the expression of all three GLUT isoforms on their plasma membrane, whilst PMNs increased only GLUT1 and GLUT3; in all WBC, insulin augmented the expression of GLUT4 and GLUT3 isoforms in addition to the stimulation provided by the PMA or LPS treatment alone.

Conclusion  Activation of WBC leads to increased expression of GLUT1, GLUT3 and GLUT4 isoforms on their plasma membrane; this process was further augmented by insulin. During infection, these mechanisms may help to redistribute glucose as a potential source of energy away from peripheral tissues and direct it towards cells that mediate the immune response and are therefore crucial to survival.
An ontogenetic perspective on the relationship between age and size at maturity
Authors: BERNER D. , BLANCKENHORN W. U.
Published: March 2007

Understanding the relationship between age and size at maturity is essential because these traits are pivotal determinants of an organism's fitness.

The relationship between age and size is commonly addressed using optimization and quantitative genetic approaches. Here we argue that the value of such studies is often limited by an insufficient consideration of organismal ontogeny.

On the basis of a simple conceptual framework of hierarchical resource allocation, we identify key aspects of ontogeny that prove critical to a fuller understanding of the relationship between age and size, and which, to date, have been insufficiently explored. In particular, these include intrinsic variation in growth rate within and among populations, and the physiological nature of the maturation process that co‐ordinates growth and reproductive function in an organism.

We also provide some guidance to the empirical investigation of these aspects, anticipating that a wider theoretical, but especially empirical appreciation of ontogenetic detail will greatly increase the explanatory and predictive power of life‐history studies.
Sonography for assessment of haemophilic arthropathy in children: a systematic protocol
Authors: ZUKOTYNSKI K. , JARRIN J. , BABYN P. S. , CARCAO M. , PAZMINO‐CANIZARES J. , STAIN A. M. , DORIA A. S.
Published: March 2007

Summary.  Radiological imaging of joints in children with haemophilia is important to detect abnormalities, grade their severity and monitor the effects of treatment. Scoring systems for staging haemophilic arthropathy have been developed based on plain film or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Radiographs alone may be inadequate for evaluating joint disease in children with haemophilia on prophylaxis while MRI may be difficult to access and require the child to be sedated. Sonography can be a useful complementary modality in the evaluation of haemophilic arthropathy that is readily available and does not require the child to be sedated. In this paper, we briefly review the current imaging scales available for the assessment of haemophilic arthropathy and present a systematic protocol for sonographic assessment of the knee and ankle in haemophilic children along with examples of findings in joint effusion/hemarthrosis, synovial hypertrophy and cartilage loss. Also, we correlate the ultrasound findings with the corresponding MRI images demonstrating the anatomic planes used for imaging acquisition. Sonography is a promising technique for the assessment of soft tissue changes which are the earliest findings in haemophilic arthropathy. Further investigation is required for evaluation of osteochondral changes given limitations of sonography in this regard and in minimizing operator dependency, especially if applied in multicentric clinical trials.
The use of micro‐Raman spectroscopy to differentiate between sound and eroded primary enamel
Authors: GILCHRIST FIONA , SANTINI ARIO , HARLEY KATHRYN , DEERY CHRISTOPHER
Published: March 2007

Objective.  The aim of this study was to investigate differences in phosphate group concentration between areas of sound and eroded enamel in primary teeth using micro‐Raman spectroscopy (MRS).

Methods.  The Raman spectroscopic technique enables researchers to obtain information about molecules by analysing scattered light caused by monochromatic laser excitation. Ten extracted anterior primary teeth with areas of sound and eroded enamel were used. Three, 10‐s scans were carried out at three points along a 3‐µm linear area in both sound and eroded primary enamel, and Raman spectra were obtained with the LabRam 300 fitted with an Olympus BX40 microscope. Scanning electron microscopy was used to confirm the presence of sound and eroded enamel on each tooth.

Results.  The phosphate ν1 band was located between 958.5 and 967.0 cm−1. There was no statistically significant difference between the area under the phosphate ν1 band values for the eroded and sound areas (P = 0.7302). Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the presence of sound and eroded areas on all specimens.

Conclusion.  In this study, there was no statistically significant difference found between phosphate group concentration in eroded and sound primary enamel when analysed by MRS.
Estimating regional species richness of tropical insects from museum data: a comparison of a geography‐based and sample‐based methods
Authors: BECK JAN , KITCHING IAN J.
Published: March 2007

The identification of spatial patterns of species richness at regional scales, such as biodiversity hotspots, is complicated in invertebrate taxa (particularly those from tropical regions) by incomplete and biased inventory data. Estimation techniques of regional species richness from incompletely sampled landscapes have recently become available, but their applicability to data from museum collections and local taxonomic checklists has not been investigated.

We use records of sphingid moths in grid cells of 1° latitude and longitude on 14 Malesian islands to estimate the total species richness of these islands, as well as that of the whole archipelago, by five parametric and nonparametric estimation techniques. We compare these values to figures based on GIS‐supported estimates of geographical ranges of each species.

Our analyses suggest that the F3 estimator of regional species richness leads to least deviation from the GIS‐based estimate, followed by Chao2 and ICE, which are often employed in local comparisons. Overestimation occurred more often than underestimation and estimates of well‐sampled islands (with many available grid cells) are less deviant than those of poorly sampled islands. We did not obtain conclusive results as to whether strongly undersampled grid cells are better excluded from an analysis (at the cost of reduced grid cell number) or not.

Synthesis and applications. In agreement with some previously published assessments, we conclude that the F3 estimator has the greatest potential for predicting regional species richness in partially sampled landscapes. Sample‐based methods for estimating regional species richness can provide an alternative to the much more work‐intensive geographical modelling of species distributions, which may facilitate the inclusion of tropical invertebrate groups in documenting global diversity patterns. However, under conditions of incomplete, non‐systematic sampling, which is typical for museum and checklist data, errors can still be large, particularly if the number of sampling units (e.g. grid cells) is low. Estimation values should not be interpreted uncritically when the data conditions that lead to biased values are not precisely defined.
Umbrella potential of plants and dragonflies for wetland conservation: a quantitative case study using the umbrella index
Authors: BRIED JASON T. , HERMAN BROOK D. , ERVIN GARY N.
Published: March 2007

Shortcuts to measuring biodiversity enable prioritization of conservation effort in the face of limited time, personnel and funding. The conservation umbrella approach focuses management effort according to individual species that may confer protection to a larger community. This approach can help guide the management agenda towards attainable goals by maximizing conservation returns per unit effort. The development of the umbrella index has shown promise in identifying umbrella species in terrestrial ecosystems but has received little attention with respect to the management of wetland ecosystems.

We used the umbrella index to assess the umbrella potential of vascular plants and dragonflies (Odonata) from 15 wetland impoundments in northern Mississippi, USA. The presence of adult odonates was determined by repeated visual surveys and plant lists were compiled from 50 plots per site.

Umbrella schemes, or the sites occupied by top umbrella species, missed large numbers of beneficiary species and occurrences. With one exception, umbrella schemes failed to optimize conservation returns relative to randomized schemes in both assemblages. Also, umbrella schemes approximately equalled the performance of non‐umbrella schemes both overall and for species with a low rate of occurrence. Low occurrence rates in both assemblages may have hindered umbrella index performance because the index assumes that species with moderate occurrence rates have the most umbrella potential.

Cross‐taxon analyses (Mantel tests and McNemar tests) suggested transferability of plant and dragonfly umbrella schemes, and non‐random association between the plants and dragonflies in these wetlands.

Synthesis and applications. Despite the questionable performance of umbrella schemes in our study, the use of a quantitative ecological tool such as the umbrella index instead of political or popularity criteria is strongly recommended for future selection of umbrella species. The results of cross‐taxon analyses supported growing evidence for spatial and functional relationships between wetland macrophytes and adult odonates. We suggest that the more easily measured assemblage can be used to set priorities for wetland conservation planning in circumstances where human resources are constrained.
Government advice on peanut avoidance during pregnancy – is it followed correctly and what is the impact on sensitization?
Authors: Dean T. , Venter C. , Pereira B. , Grundy J. , Clayton C. B. , Higgins B.
Published: March 2007

Background

In 1998, the UK government issued precautionary advice that pregnant or breast‐feeding women with a family history of atopy, may wish to avoid eating peanuts during pregnancy and lactation. This study aimed to assess the compliance with this recommendation and investigate its impact upon peanut sensitization.

Methods

A total of 858 children born immediately after the advice were followed for 2 years and assessed for peanut sensitization. A standardized questionnaire was used to ascertain history of atopy and maternal exposure to peanuts during pregnancy. Following parental consent children were skin prick tested to assess sensitization to peanuts.

Results

Sixty‐five per cent of mothers had avoided peanuts during pregnancy. Forty‐two per cent of the mothers had heard about the government advice, and half modified their diet as a consequence. Neither maternal nor family history of atopy had any significant effect on peanut consumption. Parity did play a role, and mothers having their first child were twice as likely to change their diet (P < 0.001). Mothers of 77% of the children sensitized to peanuts had avoided peanuts during pregnancy. In this cohort study maternal consumption of peanut during pregnancy was not associated with peanut sensitization in the infant.

Conclusions

The majority of mothers in this cohort avoided peanut consumption during pregnancy. It is likely that either the government advice is misunderstood by mothers, or that those who communicate the advice have not fully explained who it is targeted at.
Dietary zinc intake and sex differences in taste acuity in healthy young adults
Authors: McDaid O. , Stewart‐Knox B. , Parr H. , Simpson E.
Published: March 2007

Background

Previous research suggests that adequate dietary zinc intake may be important in determining the sensory experience of food, appetite and consequently, dietary quality. The aim of this pilot study was to explore relationships between taste sensitivity and dietary zinc intake in healthy young adults (age 20–40 years: 24 male, mean age ± SD = 27 ± 4.86 years; 26 female, mean age ± SD = 23 ± 2.10).

Method

A signal detection method was used to assess taste acuity for the four basic tastes: sweet (glucose), sour (citric acid), salt (sodium chloride) and bitter (quinine). A 4‐day food diary was used to determine dietary intakes of zinc (mg day−1) and salt.

Results

Males reported a higher zinc intake than females (P = 0.001). Higher dietary zinc intake was associated with better taste acuity for salt in females (P = 0.017) but not in males. Acuity for bitter taste appeared to be related to zinc intake in males (P = 0.007) but not females. Among those whose average daily zinc intake was below the RNI, males were less sensitive than females to sour (P = 0.02) and bitter (P = 0.014) taste.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that zinc is more important for taste acuity in males than females and indicate the importance of taking sex differences into account when studying taste acuity.
Early versus late enteral nutritional support in adults with burn injury: a systematic review
Authors: Wasiak J. , Cleland H. , Jeffery R.
Published: March 2007

Background

Burn injury increases the body's metabolic demands, and therefore nutritional requirements. Provision of an adequate supply of nutrients is believed to lower the incidence of metabolic abnormalities, thus reducing septic morbidity, and improving survival rates. Enteral nutrition support is the best feeding method in a patient who is unable to achieve an adequate oral intake, but optimal timing of its introduction after burn injury (i.e. early versus late) needs to be established. The purpose of this review is to examine evidence for the effectiveness and safety of early versus late enteral nutrition support in adults with burn injury.

Methods

An examination of randomized and controlled clinical trials using various medical databases such as The Cochrane Library (Issue 3, 2006), MEDLINE (from 1950), CINHAL (from 1982) and EMBASE (from 1980).

Results

The trial evidence about the benefit of early enteral nutritional support on standardized clinical outcomes such as length of hospital stay and mortality remained inconclusive. Similarly, the question of whether early enteral feeding influenced or decreased metabolic rate, reduced septic and other complications remained uncertain.

Conclusions

Promising results suggest early enteral nutrition support may blunt the hypermetabolic response to thermal injury, but it is insufficient to provide clear guidelines for practice. Further research incorporating larger sample sizes and rigorous methodology that utilizes valid and reliable outcome measures is essential.
Adequacy of dietetic service provision to adult critical care: a survey of 33 centres in Northern England
Authors: Windle E. M.
Published: March 2007

Background:

Nutrition interventions improve morbidity, mortality and length of stay in the critically ill. Dietitians play a central role in facilitating these interventions. However, data regarding the current level and adequacy of dietetic service provision to critical care in the UK is lacking. This study aimed to clarify current service trends in Northern England for critical care, in relation to dietetic funding, grading and activity characteristics and comparisons with nationally recognized standards of care.

Methods:

A work profile questionnaire was sent to 53 dietitians in Northern England. Data was collected on funding, activity patterns, organization of nutrition support, pay banding/grade and arrangements for cover during absence.

Results:

The response rate was 66% (35/53). Thirty‐three hospitals were represented. No critical care centre funding or actual activity achieved national guidance for funded dietetic full‐time equivalents (FTE). Total sample deficit for funding against recommendations was 32.9 FTE. Staff pay bands/grades were inconsistent. Routine patient review occurred on a daily basis by 31% dietitians and 23% were members of a nutrition support team. Cover during absence was limited or provided by a dietitian at a lower staff grade in 67% of centres.

Conclusions:

Serious deficiencies exist in dietetic services to critical care in the sample studied. Further work is now required to identify inter‐regional and national trends and to define appropriate dietetic job profiles for critical care.
Correlates of maternal behaviours in mothers of children with fragile X syndrome
Authors: Wheeler Anne , Hatton Deborah , Reichardt Alison , Bailey Don
Published: March 2007

Background The behaviours of 24 mothers of children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) with their affected children were examined during planned observations in their homes. The goal of this study was to describe concurrent maternal interactive behaviour and the factors that influence the type and frequency of these behaviours within this group.

Methods The frequency ofmaintaining,directiveandscaffoldingbehaviours and the extent to which the mothers displayedwarm sensitivityandrestrictionswere examined within a 60‐min naturalistic observation and a 10‐min toy play observation. Rating scales and parent questionnaires were used to assess selected maternal mental health factors, including depression, anxiety, stress and social support. The cognitive status of mothers and developmental and behavioural abilities of children were also examined.

Results The women in this study used primarily maintaining behaviours in interactions with their children. Maintaining behaviours and warm sensitivity were consistent across structured and unstructured settings, while directive, scaffolding and restricting were not correlated across the two settings. Child receptive language skills were related to higher rates of maintaining and scaffolding behaviours. The women reported clinically significant levels of stress, depression and anxiety at a prevalence rate higher than that of the general public. Child behaviour problems contributed to maternal stress, and mothers with higher stress engaged in fewer interactions with their children.

Conclusions The relations between maternal stress, child problem behaviour and number of interactive behaviours exhibited by the mothers in this study provide information that can inform interventions and provide direction for future research exploring environmental influences on the development of children with fragile X syndrome.
Drug administration errors in an institution for individuals with intellectual disability: an observational study
Authors: Van Den Bemt P. M. L. A. , Robertz R. , De Jong A. L. , Van Roon E. N. , Leufkens H. G. M.
Published: March 2007

Background  Medication errors can result in harm, unless barriers to prevent them are present. Drug administration errors are less likely to be prevented, because they occur in the last stage of the drug distribution process. This is especially the case in non‐alert patients, as patients often form the final barrier to prevention of errors. Therefore, a study was set up aimed at identifying the frequency of drug administration errors and determinants for these errors in an institution for individuals with intellectual disability (ID).

Methods  This observational study (‘disguised observation’) was conducted within an institution in the Netherlands caring for 2500 individuals with ID and lasted from October to December 2004 with a case control design for identifying determinants for errors. The institution consists of both day care units and living units (providing full‐time care), located in different towns. For the study, five units from different towns were selected. Within each study unit, the administration of drugs to patients was observed for 2 weeks. In total, 953 drug administrations to 46 patients (25 male, mean age 25.8 years, range 2–73 years) were observed.

Results  With inclusion of wrong time errors, 242 administrations with at least one error were observed [frequency = 242/953 (25.4%)] and with exclusion 213 administrations with at least one error were observed [frequency = 213/953 (22.4%)]. Determinants associated with errors were routes of administration ‘oral by feeding tube’ (OR 189.66; 95% CI 46.16–779.24) and ‘inhalation’ (OR 9.98; 95% CI 4.78–20.80), the units ‘adult full‐time care’ (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.05–4.35) and ‘children daytime care’ (OR 10.80; 95% CI 4.43–26.29) and the absence of a distribution robot (OR 4.0; 95% CI 2.67–5.95). None of the identified errors were reported to the voluntary reporting system.

Conclusion  This study shows that administration errors in an institution for individuals with ID are common and that they are not formally reported to the voluntary reporting system. Furthermore, it identified some determinants that may be the focus for future improvements aimed to reduce error frequency.
Uniform ion beam milling of a non‐flat surface at off‐normal incidence and four azimuths
Authors: ALKEMADE P.F.A. , DOCTER M.W. , KUTCHOUKOV V.G.
Published: March 2007

Atom removal from surfaces via bombardment by ion beams –ion beam sputtering or ion milling– is a widely employed technique to form geometric structures in materials. In this work we present and test a new method to achieving uniform material removal from an irregular surface. The method is based on ion milling at off‐normal incidence under four consecutive perpendicular azimuthal specimen orientations. Mathematical analysis shows that uniform ion milling of an uneven surface is achieved at the polar angle of incidence θ where the quantity has its maximum [Y(θ) is the number of removed atoms per incident ion].

The four‐azimuth milling procedure is tested successfully for a 30 keV Ga+ beam on a suspended but wrinkled Si3N4/Au bilayer foil and on truncated Si pyramids with slopes up to 40°. Despite the variations in local surface orientations, uniform milling is achieved at a polar incidence angle of 45° and four consecutive azimuths of 0°, 90°, 180° and 270°.
In situ atomic force microscopy and image analysis of dentine submitted to acid etching
Authors: PACIORNIK S. , DE‐DEUS G. , REIS C. M. , PINHO MAURICIO M. H. , PRIOLI R.
Published: March 2007

The effect of acid etching on root dentine was analyzed with Atomic Force Microscopy using a liquid cell that allowed image acquisition while the sample was kept in contact with the etching solution. The time evolution of the etching process was evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively. Image sequences against etching time were obtained showing a clear trend of surface cleaning and opening of dentine tubules. Image analysis methods were employed to quantify the changes on the dentine surface, through the detection and morphological measurement of dentine tubules over time. The measurements indicated an overall increase in the diameter of the tubules against time, with a saturation value between 3.5 and 5.5 μm reached after approximately 300 seconds.
Non‐destructive characterization of deer (Cervus Elaphus) antlers by X‐ray microtomography coupled with image analysis
Authors: LÉONARD A. , GUIOT L. P. , PIRARD J.‐P. , CRINE M. , BALLIGAND M. , BLACHER S.
Published: March 2007

X‐ray microtomography coupled with image analysis was tested as a non‐destructive alternative method for the textural characterization of the trabecular part of deer antlers (Cervus Elaphus). As gas adsorption and mercury intrusion cannot be applied on this soft and spongy material, its pore texture was, up to now, determined from histological sections that give only two‐dimensional information. In this work, X‐ray microtomography is used to scan entire or half pieces of antlers and three‐dimensional image analysis is performed in order to assess the differences between samples collected at various antler locations. Results clearly show a porosity profile along the sample diameter. The pore size distribution is showed to be dependent on the sample original site.
Micromechanical properties of tobacco mosaic viruses
Authors: SCHMATULLA ALEXANDER , MAGHELLI NICOLA , MARTI OTHMAR
Published: March 2007

A tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) subject to local forces can be viewed as an uniform beam with local loads. We used a custom built Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) to determine the curvature induced in the TMV by concentrated load or by distributed forces. Local forces were created by the AFM tip. Distributed forces were applied to the virus via the surface tension of receding droplets. The experimental results of both methods can be described when we attribute a Young modulus of 6 ± 3 GPa to the virus. Our value is about five times larger than published data. We compare our results to the literature and work out possible error sources in our experiment and in published one.
Three‐dimensional measurement and visualization of morphogenesis applied to cardiac embryology
Authors: SOUFAN A. T. , VAN DEN BERG G. , MOERLAND P. D. , MASSINK M. M. G. , VAN DEN HOFF M. J. B. , MOORMAN A. F. M. , RUIJTER J. M.
Published: March 2007

Volume growth and proliferation are key processes in heart morphogenesis, yet their regionalization during development of the heart has been described only anecdotally. To study the contribution of cardiomyocyte proliferation to heart development, a quantitative reconstruction method was designed, allowing the local mapping of this morphogenetic process. First, a morphological surface reconstruction is made of the heart, using sections stained specifically for cardiomyocytes. Then, by a comprehensive series of image processing steps, local three‐dimensional (3D) information of proliferation is obtained. These local quantitative data are then mapped onto the morphological surface reconstruction, resulting in a reconstruction that not only provides morphological information (qualitative), but also displays local information on proliferation rate (quantitative). The resulting 3D quantitative reconstructions revealed novel observations regarding the morphogenesis of the heart.
Organelle transport in melanophores analyzed by white light image correlation spectroscopy
Authors: IMMERSTRAND CHARLOTTE , HEDLUND JOEL , MAGNUSSON KARL–ERIC , SUNDQVIST TOMMY , PETERSON KAJSA HOLMGREN
Published: March 2007

Intracellular transport of organelles, vesicles and proteins is crucial in all eukaryotic cells, and is accomplished by motor proteins that move along cytoskeletal filaments. A widely used model of intracellular transport is Xenopus laevis melanophores. These cells help the frog to change color by redistributing melanin‐containing organelles in the cytoplasm. The high contrast of the pigment organelles permits changes in distribution to be observed by ordinary light microscopy; other intracellular transport systems often require fluorescence labeling. Here we have developed white light Image Correlation Spectroscopy (ICS) to monitor aggregation and dispersion of pigment. Hitherto in ICS, images of fluorescent particles from Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) have been used to calculate autocorrelation functions from which the density can be obtained. In the present study we show that ICS can be modified to enable analysis of light‐microscopy images; it can be used to monitor pigment aggregation and dispersion, and distinguish between different stimuli. This new approach makes ICS applicable not only to fluorescent but also to black‐and‐white images from light or electron microscopy, and is thus very versatile in different studies of movement of particles on the membrane or in the cytoplasm of cells without potentially harmful fluorescence labeling and activation.
Position referencing in optical microscopy thanks to sample holders with out‐of‐focus encoded patterns
Authors: SANDOZ P. , ZEGGARI R. , FROEHLY L. , PRETET J. ‐L. , MOUGIN C.
Published: March 2007

This article introduces smart sample holders for optical microscopy. Their purpose is to allow the absolute determination of the position of the observed zone with respect to the sample holder itself and with a high accuracy. It becomes then straightforward to find a given zone of interest by positioning coarsely the microscope slide to the same position coordinates. Furthermore images recorded during different observation sessions; i.e. for slightly different positions; can be processed numerically in order to superimpose them with a high accuracy. Thus the slight deviations of the microscope slide position and orientation due to the different observations are compensated numerically and a perfect superimposition of the recorded images is performed. Then accurate site‐by‐site image comparisons become possible even for images recorded during different observation sessions and over a long period of time. The subpixel capability of the proposed method is demonstrated and those smart microscope slides constitute a new tool for live cell experiment.

In practise, an encoded geometrical pattern used as position reference is inserted in a plane parallel to the surface receiving the tissue section or sample. Then the transition of the focus position from the tissue section to the position reference requires only a vertical adjustment and does not affect the lateral coordinates of observation. The numeric processing of the image of the position reference pattern allows the retrieval of the lateral coordinates that are also used for the tissue section image. Thus each image is recorded with a set of position coordinates that defines accurately the position of the observed area with respect to the sample holder itself.
Bone density assessments of oral implant sites using computerized tomography
Authors: TURKYILMAZ I. , TÖZÜM T. F. , TUMER C.
Published: March 2007

summary  The type and architecture of bone are considered to affect its load‐bearing capacity and it has been indicated that poorer quality bone is associated with higher implant failure rates. To date, bone classifications have only provided subjective methods for pre‐operative assessment, which can be considered unreliable. The aim of this study was to evaluate variations of the bone density in designated endosseous implant sites using computerized tomography. One hundred and thirty‐one designated implant sites in 72 patients were utilized. Computerized tomography results indicated that bone densities may vary markedly when different areas of a designated implant site are compared. It has been observed that a difference in the bone density exists for the four regions within the oral area, with the anterior mandible yielding mean density values of 944·9 ± 207 Hounsfield units (HU) > anterior maxilla, 715·8 ± 190 HU > posterior mandible, 674·3 ± 227 HU > posterior maxilla and 455·1 ± 122 HU. Computerized tomography may be a useful tool for determining the bone density of interest areas before implant placement, and this valuable information about the bone quality provides dental practitioners to make better treatment planning regarding the implant positions.
Age and gender‐related differences in premolar and molar functional areas
Authors: BOURDIOL P. , ABOU EL KARAM S. , MARTIN J.‐F. , NICOLAS E. , MIOCHE L.
Published: March 2007

summary  The aim of the present study was to underline the difference in premolar–molar functional areas according to both age and gender in a human adult population. Premolar and molar series were marked manually on opposed casts with articulating paper and functional areas were evaluated by quantification of these markings. It was noticed that on average larger functional areas were displayed by the older group (19 individuals, mean age 71·2 years, minimum 68 years, maximum 73 years) in comparison with the younger one (24 individuals, mean age 27·4 years, minimum 22 years; maximum 33 years). It was also observed that the average total functional area (4 hemiarches) was larger in the male subgroup (n: 23; mean age 45; young adults, 14; old adults, 9) compared with the female one (n: 20; mean age 49; young adults, 10; old adults, 10). Nevertheless, this gender difference in premolar–molar functional areas was related to the individual occlusal areas. As a matter of fact, when the individual occlusal area was taken into account for each series in the form of a ratio (functional area/occlusal area), the values obtained were not different between both gender subgroups studied. When comparing premolar and molar functional ratios (functional area/occlusal area) between age groups, it appears that the values obtained were slightly higher for the premolar series (ratios for young and older adults, respectively: Premolar series: 23·6 ± 7·5%, 30 ± 6·5%; Molar series: 23·1 ± 6·8%, 27·3 ± 6·7%). This difference was interpreted in relation to the reference (occlusal area) chosen.