bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional reconstruction of aqueous channels in human trabecular meshwork using light microscopy and confocal microscopy
Authors: Camp Jon J. , Hann Cheryl R. , Johnson Douglas H. , Tarara James E. , Robb Richard A.
Published: June 2010

Conventional two‐dimensional imaging of the trabecular meshwork (TM) provides limited information about the size, shape, and interconnection of the aqueous channels within the meshwork. Understanding the three‐dimensional (3‐D) relationships of the channels within this tissue may give insight into its normal function and possible changes present in the eye disease glaucoma. The purpose of our study was to compare laser scanning confocal microscopy with standard 1 μm Araldite‐embeddedhistologic sections for 3‐D analysis of the trabecular meshwork. In addition, the study was done to determine whether computerized 3‐D reconstruction could isolate the fluid spaces of the trabecular meshwork and determine the size of interconnections between the fluid spaces. Confocal microscopy appears comparable to 1 μm Araldite‐embedded tissue sections and has the advantage of inherent registration of the serial tissue sections. Three‐dimensional reconstruction allowed the isolation of the fluid spaces within the trabecular meshwork and revealed the presence of numerous interconnections between larger fluid spaces. The distribution of these interconnections was randomly arranged, with no predilection for specific regions within the trabecular meshwork. This distribution of constrictions and “expansion chambers” may provide a clue to the mechanism by which subtle histologic changes are associated with increased ocular pressure in glaucoma.
Inexpensive digital imaging?
Authors: Postek Michael T. , Vladar Andras E.
Published: June 2010

The capture of digital images through the use of a frame grabber provides tremendous advantages to scanning electron microscopy. Accessory frame grabbers can range in price from very inexpensive to several thousand dollars. This work investigates the application of one inexpensive “consumer product” frame grabber which has recently been introduced to scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging. The application of this frame grabber to the SEM as a low‐cost, entry‐level digital imaging tool is explored, and its performance is compared with a more expensive system.
Curvilinear finite element mesh generation for electron gun simulation
Authors: Khursheed Anjam
Published: June 2010

Mesh generation is an integral part of the finite element simulation of electron guns. This paper shows that curvilinear meshes are the ideal type of mesh to use, both in terms of accuracy and speed of computation, and presents a numerical method to generate quasi‐curvilinear meshes for a wide variety of electron gun structures.
The method of increasing COMPO contrast by linearization of backscattering characteristic η =f(Z)
Authors: Kaczmarek Danuta
Published: June 2010

The backscattered electron signal (BSE) in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been used for investigation of a specimen surface composition (COMPO mode). Creation of a material composition map is difficult because the dependence of backscattering coefficient η on the atomic number Z for Z > 40 is nonlinear. The method of increase in SEM resolution for the BSE signal by use of digital image processing has been proposed. This method is called the linearization of the η =f(Z) characteristic. The function approximating the experimental η =f (Z) dependence was determined by numerical methods. After characteristics linearization, the digital image in COMPO mode allows to distinguish between two elements with high atomic numbers if their atomic numbers differ by ΔZ = 1.
High‐resolution field‐emission scanning electron microscopy of nuclear pore complex
Authors: Ris Hans
Published: June 2010

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) is a large macro‐molecular assembly inserted into the nuclear envelope (NE). It controls the traffic of proteins, RNA, and RNA proteins between nucleus and cytoplasm. Its chemical composition and function are now intensively investigated in many organisms. To understand this unique membrane transport system, we must know the supramolecular organization of the NPC. In recent years, high‐resolution field‐emission scanning electron microscopy has made important contributions to our knowledge of NPC structure. It provided the first images of the complex and beautiful fish trap‐like structure of its intranuclear surface, documented in this review. It also has provided the first images of a new intranuclear structure, a system of branching hollow cables connecting the nuclear interior with the NPCs at the nuclear surface. Most likely this is an intranuclear transport system, assuring efficient exchange between the nuclear interior and the NE, especially in large nuclei.
Choosing the optimum accelerating voltage (EO) to visualize submicron precipitates with a field emission scanning electron microscope
Authors: Hovington Pierre , Gauvin Raynald , Drouin Dominique
Published: June 2010

With the advent of field emission scanning electron microscopes (FESEM), the observation of small phases in the 5 to 50 nm range seems to be possible at low accelerating voltage using backscattered electron imaging mode. In this context, it is important to understand the contrast of multiphased materials at such low energy. A Monte Carlo program to simulate electron trajectories of multiphased materials (CASINO) was used to compute electron backscattering images. Simulations of images for various compositions of spherical precipitates embedded in a homogeneous matrix as a function of precipitate size and accelerating voltage are presented. These simulations show the concept of an optimum accelerating voltage to maximize the contrast of electron backscattering images. The results presented in this paper show that the contrast of backscattering images of multiphased images in the scanning electron microscope is not only a function of the atomic number difference, but that it is also strongly related to the geometry and the size of the phases.
Comparative characterization of chemical vapor deposition diamond films by scanning cathodoluminescence microscopy
Authors: Obraztsov A. N. , Saparin G. V. , Obyden S. K. , Pavlovsky I. Y.
Published: June 2010

Thin diamond films grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process on Si substrates under similar deposition conditions in the microwave‐excited (MW) and direct current (DC) plasma discharges were taken for comparative examination. Raman spectra, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and color cathodoluminescence scanning electron microscopy (CCL‐SEM) have been used for characterization of the structure and composition features of poly‐crystalline diamond films. No essential difference in Raman spectra for the CVD diamond films was detected. A significant difference was revealed in the PL spectra and in CCL‐SEM images.
A new method of scanning tunneling spectroscopy for study of the energy structure of semiconductors and free electron gas in metals
Authors: Pavlov A. , Ihantola H.
Published: June 2010

In this study, anew method for the scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) of direct and indirect gap semiconductors and free electron gas in metals is proposed. Band structures of Si, porous Si, and Ge were studied. The tunneling current‐voltage characteristics of Si and porous Si surfaces were measured over different voltage intervals from tens of mV to 20 V under incident light from an Xe lamp and those of a Ge surface in the dark. The correlation between the shapes of the I‐V curves and band structure of the materials was calculated. It was found that the curves are linear if measured in the voltage range V0Eg/(2e) and nonlinear when V0α Eg/(2e) (in the measurements the applied voltage was changed from ‐V0to V0). The method was used for the observation of a new effect of tunneling of free electron gas having thermal energies from a metal tip to a band gap state of the semiconductor. The energy spectrum of free electron gas was measured.
Calculation of concentration depth profiles in electron probe microanalysis
Authors: Andrae Michael , Röhrbacher Kurt , Klein Peter , Udvary Leonhard , Wernisch Johann
Published: June 2010

Based on a multiple reflection model, the concentration depth profiles of gold diffused into a silver substrate are determined. To conclude the structure of the sample from the measured intensity of radiation, an accurate correction procedure is necessary. A new model was developed for this purpose. Since the new electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) correction procedure is also valid for tilted samples, measurements with different geometries could be performed. The different angles of incidence and take‐off angles allow for a better comparison of theory with experiment. One advantage of the applied multiple reflection model is that it can be extended comparatively easily with the analysis of layered specimens. Measurements of some specimens with one layer on a substrate are reported. The mean deviation of calculated thicknesses is about 10%. To calculate depth profiles, gold was evaporated with physical vapor deposition on silver foils. The thicknesses of evaporated gold films were 50 and 100 nm. Then the specimens were annealed at a temperature of approximately 400°C. Finally, the concentration depth profiles were quantified with EPMA. The shape of the profiles was derived from a simple diffusion model valid for the samples under consideration. To check the shape of the functions obtained, a comparison with measurements by secondary ion mass spectrometry was performed.
Development of high‐resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy with multifunctions for chargeless observation of nonconducting surface
Authors: Yamamoto Youiti , Yamada Mitsuru , Negishi Tsutomu
Published: June 2010

We have developed a fully digital field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM) with multifunctions to compensate the charging up of nonconducting surfaces. High‐voltage observation, minimum electron dose, variable scanning speed, averaging, integration, tuning of surface potential, and cyclotron movements of secondary electrons have been achieved. This FE‐SEM was successfully applied to observe resist, diatomaceous earth, aluminum oxide, and zeolite surfaces. The accelerating voltage is changeable in a range from 0.5 to 30 kV, and the probe current on the sample can be varied from 2×10‐9 to l×10‐13A to supply optimum electron dose. By using a snorkel‐ type, strongly excited objective lens (OL) immersing the samples in the magnetic field, the secondary electrons are extracted from the sample. For guiding electrons into the built‐in lens‐type secondary electron detector (SED), newly developed accelerating and retarding electrodes are installed in the OL to tune the surface potential. Furthermore, this FE‐SEM can select 10 scan speeds, and the averaging and integration of secondary electron image signals are possible under every selected scan speed.
Recent case histories of food product ‐metal container interactions using scanning electron microscopy‐x‐ray microanalysis
Authors: Charbonneau James E.
Published: June 2010

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x‐ray microanalysis (EDS) were used to investigate stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in plain tinplate food cans, product discoloration, filiform corrosion, pitting/perforation corrosion, and loss of coating adhesion in enameled food cans. Intergranular SCC of uncoated tinplate occurred in canned pineapple juice. This is a rare occurrence in acid food products. The fracture developed in the can headspace only at the product line/metal interface by an interaction of the detinned metal surface with stress‐inducing compounds in the product. Black discoloration of rice granules in the can headspace of a chicken and rice product was caused by the formation of metal sulfides. The source of the metal contamination was traced to metallic dirt in the coating on the tin‐free steel end. Blackening of light tan‐colored olives and brine occurred after 1 year of storage in enameled tinplate containers as aresult of pitting corrosion at the side seam weld. The cause of the pitting was a defective side seam stripe which failed to protect the weld. A perforation problem occurred at the score line of aluminum‐tinplate bimetallic cans. The failure was caused by the high chloride content of the fruit product. Filiform corrosion resulted in perforations that occurred on the outside surfaces of two‐piece tin‐free steel cans packed with tuna. The cause of the corrosion was related to scratch defects in the exterior coating and the presence of chloride and sulfate cannery residues in the corroded areas. An enamel adhesion failure developed inside two‐piece tin‐free steel cans that contained mushrooms. Wrinkles in the coating which were introduced during can manufacture were cracked. The fractures were pathways for product‐steel interaction which resulted in container failure.
Three‐dimensional localisation of fluorescence resonance energy transfer in living cells under two‐photon excitation
Authors: Xu Ming G. , Crimeen Blessing , Ludford‐Menting Mandy J. , Gan Xiaosong , Russell Sarah M. , Gu Min
Published: June 2010

Three‐dimensional (3‐D) imaging of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) in human cells under two‐photon excitation was demonstrated in this study. A sample was prepared by expressing a donor and an acceptor in living cells and using an antibody to secure the proximity of contact between the donor and the acceptor. The quenching of fluorescence emission of a donor in the double‐labelled cells indicates the presence of FRET that occurred in these living cells. Because of the quadratic relation of the excitation power, 3‐D localisation of FRET becomes possible.
Scanning electron microscopy of nonconductive specimens at critical energies in a cathode lens system
Authors: Frank Luděk , Zadražil Martin , Müllerová Ilona
Published: June 2010

A method for scanning electron microscopy imaging of nonconductive specimens, based on measurement and utilisation of a critical energy, is described in detail together with examples of its application. The critical energy, at which the total electron yield curve crosses the unit level, is estimated on the basis of measurement of the image signal development from the beginning of irradiation. This approach, concentrated onto the detected signal as the only quantity crucial for the given purpose of acquiring a noncharged micrograph, evades consequences of any changes in an irradiated specimen that influence the total electron yield curve and possibly also the critical energy value. Implementation of the automated method, realised using a cathode lens‐equipped scanning electron microsope (SEM), enables one to establish a mean rate of charging over the field of view and its dependence on the electron landing energy. This dependence enables one to determine the energy of a minimum damage of the image of the given field of view. Factors influencing reliability and applicability of the method are discussed and examples of noncharged micrographs of specimens from both life and material science fields are presented.
Image analysis of particle dispersions in microscopy images of cryo‐sectioned sausages
Authors: Kohler A. , Høst V. , Ofstad R.
Published: June 2010

Two feature extraction methods, the three‐dimensional (3‐D) local box‐counting method and the area distribution method, are presented to describe the fat dispersion pattern on digital microscopy images of cryo‐sectioned sausages. Both methods calculate whole arrays of variables for each microscopy image. The 3‐D box‐counting method calculates scale dependent (local) dimensions. This is in contrast to common fractal methods, which are univariate. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to show that different sausages yield different fat dispersion patterns. Partial least square regression (PLS) shows that there is a correlation between the variables gained with both methods and the fat content.
Validation of three‐dimensional surface characterising methods: Scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy
Authors: Al‐Nawas B. , Grötz K. A. , Götz H. , Heinrich G. , Rippin G. , Stender E. , Duschner H. , Wagner W.
Published: June 2010

Surface characteristics of enosseous titanium implants have been known to influence the quality of os‐seointegration. Parameters recommended for metrical analysis should be supplemented by a topographical description. In this study, Ra values obtained by established tactile and optical profilometric methods are correlated with those obtained by stereo scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). As test specimens, standardised CVD diamond‐coated titanium alloys with different microwave coating power ranging from 2000 to 3000 W were used. A non‐CVD‐coated corund grit‐blasted specimen (NC) was used as reference. After coating with a CVD, power of 2000 W Ra ranges from 4.33 to 5.69 μm depending on the method used. With increasing power of the coating process, the amplitude of the surface roughness is significantly increased to 4.53 to 6.89 μm. Ra values of the same sample obtained by different methods are also significantly different (p=0.001). Compared with the established methods of tactile and optical profilometry, SEM and CLSM offer valid data on the surface roughness accompanied by a topographical imaging. In future studies, the underlying method should be specified to interpret roughness values correctly, as not every method is suitable for each specimen and values obtained by different methods vary extremely.
Accuracy and precision of quantitative energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometry in the environmental scanning electron microscope
Authors: Carlton Robert A. , Lyman Charles E. , Roberts James E.
Published: June 2010

The accuracy and precision of quantitative energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometry in the environmental scanning electron microscope have been estimated using a series of copper / gold alloys of known composition. The mean values (five to six replicate experiments) had relative errors within ± 5%, and most were within ± 3.5%. All relative standard deviations were < 5% and most were < 3%. Since the standard specimens were large (∼500 μm) in diameter, electron scattering in the 2 torr of water vapor above the specimen did not affect the results. This level of accuracy and precision was possible only by using a novel specimen surface charge neutralization scheme.
A simple method for checking the illumination profile in a laser scanning microscope and the dependence of resolution on this profile
Authors: Kuypers L. C. , Dirckx J. J. J. , Decraemer W. F.
Published: June 2010

One of the conditions for a laser scanning microscope to reach its optimal performance is for it to operate at its full numerical aperture (NA). In most commonly used systems, the illumination intensity at the back focal plane of the objective lens is apodized. This paper presents a simple method using a photodiode for checking the actual illumination intensity profile. We show as an example the measured profiles of a laser beam when working with two high‐NA immersion objectives in two different confocal systems, and also show that in theoretical studies of the point‐spread function, the assumption of a flat compared with a truncated Gaussian beam profile gives rise to severe discrepancies. The measured profiles also serve as an indication of the necessity of a realignment of the optical system.
Student affairs and alumni relations
Authors: Rissmeyer Patricia A.
Published: June 2010

The chapter explains the unique position that student affairs administrators have in developing good relationships with alumni and the various strategies that can be used to maintain those connections.
Fundraising for student affairs at comprehensive institutions
Authors: Arminio Jan , Clinton Leslie Folmer , Harpster George
Published: June 2010

Due to the dearth of literature describing fundraising practices at comprehensive institutions, the authors of this chapter conducted a multisite case study to uncover current practices. Their findings lead to recommendations and possible best practices.
Entrepreneurialism in student affairs: The Eckerd College waterfront program story
Authors: Covert William , Murphy Cari
Published: June 2010

This chapter describes an innovative program built by taking advantage of institutional setting, institutional needs, and community needs. Throughout the chapter a collaborative model for fundraising is described, however, the expertise of the waterfront staff in the development of funds and students should not be underestimated.
Summary and suggestions for the path ahead
Authors: Miller Thomas E.
Published: June 2010

This chapter summarizes key points and conclusions made in this volume and points toward the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Addendum to Issue 126: Letter from the University of Pittsburgh
Authors: Rairigh Ann
Published: June 2010

Related Article.
Lisp‐Stat
Authors: Tierney Luke
Published: June 2010

This article outlines a statistical system based on the Lisp language. The system consists of a set of functions for performing basic statistical computations and modifications to standard Lisp functions for basic arithmetic operations, such as addition, logarithms, etc., to allow them to operate on lists and arrays of numbers. An object‐oriented programming system is used to allow the construction of custom data structures and to represent statistical structures such as linear and nonlinear regression models. The basic computing system is implemented in a subset of Common Lisp. A major feature is a dynamic graphics system for bitmapped graphics displays that includes histograms, scatterplots, rotatable plots, and scatterplot matrices. Plots are controlled by mouse actions, menus, and dialog boxes. The object‐oriented programming system is used to allow the response to mouse actions, menus, and dialogs to be customized interactively by the user. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Software for Computational Statistics > Software/Statistical Software
Preincisional Versus Postincisional Administration of Parecoxib in Colorectal Surgery: Effect on Postoperative Pain Control and Cytokine Response. A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Pandazi Ageliki , Kapota Evagelia , Matsota Paraskevi , Paraskevopoulou Pinelopi , Dervenis Christos , Kostopanagiotou Georgia
Published: June 2010

Background

Preincisional pain management aims at reducing pain and inflammatory response. We investigated whether preincisional parecoxib administration reduces pain, opioid requirements, and cytokine production after surgery for colonic cancer.

Methods

Forty one patients whose American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) status was I–II and who were scheduled for colorectal cancer surgery were randomly divided in two groups according to the timing of parecoxib administration: Group PRE (preincisional) received parecoxib 40 mg intravenously 30 min before skin incision and group POST (postincisional) received the same dose 30 min after skin incision. Postoperative analgesia involved the administration of patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) morphine to all patients. We recorded verbal rating scale (VRS) scores and morphine consumption at 1, 6, 18, and 24 h after surgery and blood levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) 30 min before skin incision, at peritoneal closure, and 24 h postoperatively.

Results

The VRS scores were similar between groups. Although morphine consumption was significantly lower in group PRE at 6, 18 and 24 h postoperatively (p = 0.044, p = 0.02, p < 0.001, respectively) morphine‐related adverse effects did not differ between the two groups. The serum IL‐6 was significantly (p = 0.042) elevated from the baseline value 24 h postoperatively in group POST.

Conclusions

Preincisional parecoxib administration compared to postincisional administration reduced postoperative morphine consumption, but without affecting morphine‐related adverse effects and attenuated IL‐6 production 24 h after surgery for colorectal cancer.
Horizontal and Vertical Theologies: “Sacraments” in the Works of Paschasius Radbertus and Ratramnus of Corbie
Authors: Phelan Owen M.
Published: June 2010

In the middle decades of the ninth century, Charles the Bald, the West Frankish Carolingian ruler, received two treatises on the subject of the Eucharist. Paschasius Radbertus (ca. 790–ca. 865) and Ratramnus (d. after 868), both monks from the royal monastery at Corbie in Neustria, composed treatises entitled De corpore et sanguine domini.1 That these were the very first Latin Christian treatises devoted solely to the Eucharist and, further, that they came to different conclusions, has attracted well-earned scholarly scrutiny from almost immediately after their appearance. I would like to return to the question of the difference between their views. Specifically, I will show that the doctrinal differences between the two treatises have their roots in different approaches to, or—perhaps better—interests in, sacraments in general. The two authors do not take opposed positions on the topic of the sacraments, or even mutually contradicting positions on the Eucharist, rather they choose to emphasize different aspects of the sacrament, different guiding themes which suggest to each different lines of analysis. Paschasius sees sacraments primarily as instruments of unity, while Ratramnus views sacraments principally as salvific tools. This recognition yields two insights. It recalibrates analysis of the eucharistic tracts, foregrounding the contemporary concerns of the authors, while deliberately deemphasizing the subsequent theological controversies and scholarly debates into which the treatises were drawn. For both Paschasius and Ratramnus, distinctive approaches to sacraments color not only their analyses of the Eucharist, but also their approaches to larger political and social questions. This recognition also emphasizes the vibrance and creativity characteristic of the Carolingian theological milieu, too often dismissed as a supposedly derivative and unoriginal era in Christian theology. To these ends, the paper will proceed in four stages. First, I situate my question in the long historiography of the Corbie eucharistic treatises. Second, I briefly set the authors and their treatises in historical context. Third, I compare their ‘sacramental’ theologies of the Eucharist, underscoring both Paschasius's emphasis on its horizontal or communal significance and Ratramnus's stress on its vertical or salvific importance. Fourth, I trace how each author's particular sacramental interests remain consistent across their other projects with ramifications for their theological and social opinions.
Reading the Bible in Occupied France: André Trocmé and Le Chambon
Authors: Batten Alicia J.
Published: June 2010

Since the publication of Philip Hallie's book, Lest Innocent Blood Be Shed,1 and the release of Pierre Sauvage's documentary, Weapons of the Spirit,2 many North Americans have become familiar with the rescue efforts carried out in the French Vivarais-Lignon plateau during World War II. It is difficult to know the exact number of persons sheltered, and indeed this statistic has become a point of contention among historians, with some arguing that 700–1000 Jews were rescued, while a few of those who experienced and contributed to the effort estimate 3500 (in addition to approximately 1500 others).3 It is true that during the war a variety of individuals and groups in France assisted people at tremendous risk, but the number saved in the plateau, even if it does hover around 1000, is nonetheless striking.4 The residents of this region welcomed individuals and families from throughout France and Europe, providing food, housing, and assisting many over the border into Switzerland, some 300 kilometers away. Moreover, some local residents participated in the manufacture and distribution of false papers, a crime under Vichy law, but the provision of which aided in the survival of hundreds of persons during the period.5 Although not all of the inhabitants of the plateau were active in the armed Resistance, they resisted nonetheless by resolutely disobeying the Vichy authorities as well as the Germans. These people were the minority throughout France, for while some citizens actively collaborated with the Germans, the vast majority simply waited out the war, neither collaborating nor particularly opposing the changes brought by the Vichy government and the subsequent German occupying forces.6
The Oneness-Trinitarian Pentecostal Dialogue: Exploring the Diversity of Apostolic Faith
Authors: Macchia Frank D.
Published: June 2010

The Nicene Creed and the subsequent development of Trinitarian orthodoxy have been regarded by many as essential to the apostolic faith of the churches. For example, the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed without the filioque clause was made the starting point of the World Council of Churches' Commission on Faith and Order study program entitled, “Towards the Common Expression of the Apostolic Faith Today.” Not so well known, however, is the existence of a growing movement of Pentecostal Christians globally that seeks to preserve the apostolic faith of the churches in significant measure by rejecting the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed along with the Trinitarian dogma that historically it had supported. Commonly called Oneness or Apostolic Pentecostals, they are estimated to have from 14 to over 17 million followers globally and growing rapidly in Mexico, China, and the United States.1
Immunology of pregnancy
Authors: Thornton Catherine A.
Published: June 2010

The conceptual framework for reproductive immunology was put in place over 50 years ago when the survival of the fetal semi-allograft within an immunocompetent mother was first considered. During this time, a number of paradigms have emerged and the mechanisms receiving current attention are those related to immune tolerance, such as regulatory T-cells and indoleamine 2,3,-dioxygenase, and innate immunity, such as natural killer cells, trophoblast debris and inflammation. A key consideration is the temporal and spatial variation in any of these pathways (e.g. implantationv. parturition). As fetally derived trophoblasts are the semi-allogeneic cells with which the maternal immune system comes into contact, understanding the immune response to these cells is critical. There is much interest in the immunological pathways that support a healthy pregnancy and how they might be perturbed in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, there is increasing awareness that antenatal determinants of the immune function of pregnant women and their offspring have consequences for health and disease in childhood and beyond. Changes in maternal diet over recent decades coincide with the increasing prevalence of allergic and other immune-mediated diseases, and the modification of maternal diet has emerged as a strategy for disease prevention. Approaches undergoing trial at numerous sites around the world include dietary supplementation with fish oil and/or probiotics. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of any positive effect on disease outcomes should reveal further novel strategies for disease prevention.
Behind the Veil of Vagueness: Success and Failure in Institutional Reforms
Authors: CHRISTIANSEN PETER MUNK , KLITGAARD MICHAEL BAGGESEN
Published: June 2010

The difficulties of implementing large institutional reforms are legendary. Reform programs may face strong resistance from designated losers, falter at successive veto points, or stall when multiple decision makers have diverse goals. Institutional theories have successfully accounted for failure of reform in many settings, but scholars have paid less attention to how the strategic design of a reform process can have a positive effect on reform initiatives. We seek to fill this gap by studying the impact of planned ambiguity in reform processes. We hypothesize that reform proposals are more likely to succeed when policy entrepreneurs strategically hide the cost-benefit profile of a reform proposal behind a veil of vagueness until the final stages of the process. Designated losers with limited information about the impact of proposed reforms are less likely to succeed in thwarting the reform. We test the theory on four institutional reforms or reform attempts in Denmark.
Performance and Risks in the Defense Procurement Sector
Authors: OUDOT JEAN-MICHEL
Published: June 2010

Risks that emerge during the implementation and enforcement stages of defense procurement help explain procurement outcomes. Adverse events have impacts on the timing, cost and quality of goods supplied. The procurement process is analyzed on the basis of an original dataset covering 48 defense procurement contracts signed by the French Ministry of Defense with 18 European contractors. Contractual problems create the most adverse events in this sector, while technological risk is the second most significant risk. Although opportunism takes various forms, it is found only rarely in these defense contracts.
Association between socio-economic status and childhood undernutrition in Bangladesh; a comparison of possession score and poverty index
Authors: Mohsena Masuda , Mascie-Taylor CG Nicholas , Goto Rie
Published: June 2010

Objective

To determine how much of the variation in nutritional status of Bangladeshi children under 5 years old can be attributed to the socio-economic status of the family.

Design

Nutritional status used reference Z-scores of weight-for-age (WAZ), height-for-age (HAZ) and weight-for-height (WHZ). A ‘possession score’ was generated based on ownership of a radio, television, bicycle, motorcycle and telephone, and the availability of electricity, with categories of 0 to 4+ possessions. A five-point (quintile) ‘poverty index’ was created using principal component analysis.

Setting

The Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2004 was the source of data.

Subjects

A sample of 4891 children aged <5 years was obtained.

Results

Some 57·8 % of the sample was either stunted, wasted or underweight (7·7 % were stunted, wasted and underweight). Of those stunted (48·4 %), 25·7 % were also underweight. Underweight and wasting prevalences were 40·7 % and 14·3 %, respectively. Mean WAZ, HAZ and WHZ did not differ by sex. Children of mothers with no education or no possessions were, on average, about 1 sd more underweight and stunted than those with higher educated mothers or with 4+ possessions. The possession score provided much greater discrimination of undernutrition than the poverty index. Nearly 50 % of children from households with no possessions were stunted, wasted or underweight (only 27 % in the poorest quintile), compared with only 3–6 % of children from households with 4+ possessions (over 13 % in the richest quintile).

Conclusions

Maternal education and possession score were the main predictors of a child’s nutritional status. Possession score was a much better indicator of undernutrition than the poverty index.
Serial cross-sectional analysis of prevalence of overweight and obese children between 1998 and 2003 in Leeds, UK, using routinely measured data
Authors: Edwards Kimberley L , Clarke Graham P , Ransley Joan K , Cade Janet E
Published: June 2010

Objective

To monitor growth trends in young children in order to ascertain success (or otherwise) in halting the rapid rise in childhood obesity prevalence, and to assess the suitability of using routinely measured data for this purpose.

Design

Retrospective serial cross-sectional analyses of the proportion of obese children (logistic regression) and BMI standard deviation score (linear regression/maps) were undertaken. BMI coverage was calculated as percentage of sample with data (‘usual’), percentage of total births and percentage of census values. BMI was standardised for age and sex (British reference data set).

Setting

Metropolitan Leeds, UK.

Subjects

Children aged 3 to 6 years. Weight, height, sex, age and postcode data were collected from Primary Care Trust records.

Results

Data were collected on 42 396 children, of whom 13 020 (31 %) were excluded due to missing data/data problems. Seventy-two per cent of 3-year-olds and 92 % of 5-year-olds had data recorded (‘usual’ coverage). From 1998 to 2003 there was a significant increase in the proportion of obese children (4·5 % to 6·6 %; P < 0·001); children were 1·5 times more likely to be obese in 2003 than in 1998.

Conclusions

Childhood obesity rose significantly between 1998 and 2003. Routinely measured data are an important means of monitoring population-level obesity trends, although more effort is required to reduce the quantity of data-entry errors, for relatively low marginal cost.
Socio-economic differences in eating-related attitudes, behaviours and environments of adolescents
Authors: Utter Jennifer , Denny Simon , Crengle Sue , Ameratunga Shanthi , Clark Terryann , Maddison Ralph , Percival Teuila
Published: June 2010

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between area-level socio-economic status and healthy and less healthy eating behaviours among adolescents and to determine whether the relationship between area-level socio-economic status and dietary behaviours was related to the relevant attitudes and environments.

Design

Data were collected as part of Youth’07, a nationally representative survey of the health and well-being of New Zealand youth.

Setting

New Zealand secondary schools, 2007.

Subjects

A total of 9107 secondary-school students in New Zealand.

Results

Students from more deprived areas perceived more supportive school environments and cared as much about healthy eating as students in more affluent areas. However, these students were significantly more likely to report consuming fast food, soft drinks and chocolates.

Conclusions

Addressing area-level socio-economic disparities in healthy eating requires addressing the availability, affordability and marketing of unhealthy snack foods, particularly in economically deprived areas.
Twenty-four-hour urinary water-soluble vitamin levels correlate with their intakes in free-living Japanese schoolchildren
Authors: Tsuji Tomiko , Fukuwatari Tsutomu , Sasaki Satoshi , Shibata Katsumi
Published: June 2010

Objective

To examine the association between 24 h urinary water-soluble vitamin levels and their intakes in free-living Japanese schoolchildren.

Design

All foods consumed for four consecutive days were recorded accurately by a weighed food record. A single 24 h urine sample was collected on the fourth day, and the urinary levels of water-soluble vitamins were measured.

Setting

An elementary school in Inazawa City, Japan.

Subjects

A total of 114 healthy, free-living, Japanese elementary-school children aged 10–12 years.

Results

The urinary level of each water-soluble vitamin was correlated positively to its mean intake in the past 2–4 d (vitamin B1:r= 0·42,P< 0·001; vitamin B2:r= 0·43,P< 0·001; vitamin B6:r= 0·49,P< 0·001; niacin:r= 0·32,P< 0·001; niacin equivalents:r= 0·32,P< 0·001; pantothenic acid:r= 0·32,P< 0·001; folic acid:r= 0·27,P< 0·01; vitamin C:r= 0·39,P< 0.001), except for vitamin B12(r= 0·10,P= NS). Estimated mean intakes of water-soluble vitamins calculated using urinary levels and recovery rates were 97–102 % of their 3 d mean intake, except for vitamin B12(79 %).

Conclusions

The results show that urinary levels of water-soluble vitamins, except for vitamin B12, reflected their recent intakes in free-living Japanese schoolchildren and could be used as a potential biomarker to estimate mean vitamin intake.
Cooperation and conflict between very similar occupations: the case of anesthesia
Authors: Kalist David E. , Molinari Noelle A. , Spurr Stephen J.
Published: June 2010

This article examines the features of a labor market in which there are two professional groups that both cooperate and directly compete with each other: certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and anesthesiologists (MDAs). We examine how the relative numbers of these two types of anesthesia providers, and differences in regulation, affect the earnings of CRNAs, and the extent of supervision of CRNAs by MDAs. We find that both the earnings, and the likelihood of medical supervision of CRNAs, are closely determined by their market share. As the market share of CRNAs increases from 0% to 50%, the gains to MDAs from restricting competition increase; over this range the likelihood that CRNAs are supervised increases and their expected earnings decline. However, as the CRNAs’ market share increases beyond 50%, the costs to MDAs of anticompetitive measures become too large, therefore, the probability of supervision declines, and the earnings of CRNAs increase.
Radar distance measurements in circular waveguides involving intermodal dispersion effects
Authors: Denicke Eckhard , Armbrecht Gunnar , Rolfes Ilona
Published: June 2010

This contribution deals with guided radar distance measurements in the field of industrial tank level control. The aim is to achieve a submillimeter gauging accuracy even when conducting the measurement within a highly dispersive environment of large and thus overmoded circular waveguides. Normally, multimode propagation causes a decrease in measurement precision. Therefore, the effects of intermodal dispersion are fundamentally reviewed and, based on these results, a correlation-based signal processing method is presented. This method is able to exploit the otherwise parasitic dispersion effects to enhance the measurement precision even in constellation with a simple waveguide transition or antenna, respectively. Furthermore, considerations on the mode variety and its influence on the signal complexity as well as investigations on the technique's reliability and accuracy are presented. Measurement results in a frequency range of 8.5–10.5 GHz are provided for three different kinds of waveguide transitions proving the capability of the method.
Molekulare Früherkennung in der Medizin – Konzept, Techniken, Perspektiven
Authors: Biedermann Barbara C.
Published: June 2010

Das Konzept der molekularen Früherkennung hat mit der Entschlüsselung des menschlichen Genoms um die Jahrtausendwende erheblichen Aufschwung bekommen. Technologischer Fortschritt wird in den nächsten Jahren umfangreiche, ja umfassende (komprehensive) molekulargenetische Untersuchungen des Individuums in die Reichweite des diagnostischen Alltags bringen. In gewissen Bereichen der Medizin, z. B. in der Infektiologie oder der Hämato-Onkologie, sind molekulare Diagnosen bereits heute obligater Standard. Im Falle polygenetischer, multifaktoriell bedingter Krankheiten haben molekulargenetische Tests heute jedoch nur in Ausnahmefällen einen klinisch relevanten Stellenwert. Neue Biomarker, meistens Proteine oder Metaboliten, sind nicht selten durch komprehensive, molekulare Verfahren („-omics“) identifiziert worden. Nur die genaue Kenntnis der diagnostischen und prognostischen Aussagekraft und der Limitationen eines molekularen Tests erlaubt seine sinnvolle Anwendung.
Molekulare Früherkennung in der Endokrinologie – auf dem Weg zur differenzierten Behandlung komplexer Hormon- und Stoffwechselstörungen
Authors: Kopp Peter
Published: June 2010

Genetische Analysen spielen im Fachgebiet der Endokrinologie eine zunehmend wichtige Rolle in der klinischen Diagnostik: Genetische Tests ermöglichen eine exakte Diagnosestellung auf molekularer Ebene, eine frühzeitige Identifikation von Trägern und eine gezielte Frühbehandlung, und sie sind wichtig für eine gezielte genetische Beratung. Das bessere Verständnis der Pathogenese von endokrinen Malignomen auf molekularer Ebene ist zudem relevant für die Entwicklung neuer, zielgerichteter Therapien. Der praktische Arzt sollte mit wichtigen Prinzipien und Indikationen für genetische Analysen vertraut sein. Die potenziellen Grenzen genetischer Analysen müssen jedoch jederzeit im Auge behalten werden und Patienten und Angehörige sind entsprechend zu informieren. Der folgende Beitrag vermittelt einen kurzen, auf die Belange des Praktikers zugeschnittenen Überblick über genetische Untersuchungen im Fachgebiet der Endokrinologie.
Oceanic distribution of inorganic germanium relative to silicon: Germanium discrimination by diatoms
Authors: Sutton Jill , Ellwood Michael J. , Maher William A. , Croot Peter L.
Published: June 2010

Seventeen inorganic germanium and silicon concentration profiles collected from the Atlantic, southwest Pacific, and Southern oceans are presented. A plot of germanium concentration versus silicon concentration produced a near‐linear line with a slope of 0.760 × 10−6 (±0.004) and an intercept of 1.27 (±0.24) pmol L−1 (r2 = 0.993, p < 0.001). When the germanium‐to‐silicon ratios (Ge/Si) were plotted versus depth and/or silicon concentrations, higher values are observed in surface waters (low in silicon) and decreased with depth (high in silicon). Germanium‐to‐silicon ratios in diatoms (0.608–1.03 × 10−6) and coupled seawater samples (0.471–7.46 × 10−6) collected from the Southern Ocean are also presented and show clear evidence for Ge/Si fractionation between the water and opal phases. Using a 10 box model (based on PANDORA), Ge/Si fractionation was modeled using three assumptions: (1) no fractionation, (2) fractionation using a constant distribution coefficient (KD) between the water and solid phase, and (3) fractionation simulated using Michaelis‐Menten uptake kinetics for germanium and silicon via the silicon uptake system. Model runs indicated that only Ge/Si fractionation based on differences in the Michaelis‐Menten uptake kinetics for germanium and silicon can adequately describe the data. The model output using this fractionation process produced a near linear line with a slope of 0.76 × 10−6 and an intercept of 0.92 (±0.28) pmol L−1, thus reflecting the oceanic data set. This result indicates that Ge/Si fractionation in the global ocean occurs as a result of subtle differences in the uptake of germanium and silicon via diatoms in surface waters.
Historic 1771 Meiwa tsunami confirmed by high‐resolution U/Th dating of massive Porites coral boulders at Ishigaki Island in the Ryukyus, Japan
Authors: Araoka Daisuke , Inoue Mayuri , Suzuki Atsushi , Yokoyama Yusuke , Edwards R. Lawrence , Cheng Hai , Matsuzaki Hiroyuki , Kan Hironobu , Shikazono Naotatsu , Kawahata Hodaka
Published: June 2010

The chronicles of the Ryukyu Kingdom describe at least four coastal inundation events at Ishigaki Island during the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries: the 1771 Meiwa earthquake tsunami, which killed 12,000 people; another earthquake tsunami (1687); and two events with unrecorded causes (1625 and 1714). We used a high‐resolution U/Th method to date well‐preserved surface parts of massive Porites spp. coral head boulders that had been cast ashore and found that the ages of two boulders correspond to the 1771 event. One large Porites boulder (diameter > 4 m) was dated to 1625, suggesting that that event was also a large inundation event. Calibrated 14C ages, based on a newly estimated local value for the radiocarbon marine reservoir effect, clustered around 1625 and 1771, suggesting that these events were larger than the others. Our study demonstrated that Porites boulders have enormous potential value for studies of paleoinundation events such as tsunamis and extreme storms.