bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Global Risk Across the Continuum of Hypertensive Heart Disease
Authors: Basile Jan
Published: May 2007

Identification and management of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors are essential to help prevent CV disease and slow its progression. Long‐term epidemiologic data show that hypertension is associated with a two‐ to four‐fold increase in CV morbidity and mortality; moreover, antihypertensive therapy has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of CV events. Clinical trial data also suggest that different antihypertensive agents generally provide similar reductions in CV risks and outcomes. Beta blockers have historically played an integral role in hypertension treatment, particularly among patients at high CV risk; however, a recent meta‐analysis, based primarily on the use of atenolol, found that β blockers may provide less clinical benefit as initial therapy than other classes of antihypertensive agents. Beta blockers are heterogeneous, and atenolol data may not be representative of other β blockers. Newer β blockers, which provide both cardioselective β2‐adrenergic receptor blockade and endothelium‐dependent vasodilation, may prove to be more effective in reducing CV morbidity and mortality. Intensive strategies to control global CV risk have been shown to significantly reduce CV events. The challenge remains to develop effective risk assessment tools to identify at‐risk patients who often go undetected.
Managing Hypertension: State of the Science
Authors: Cohen Jerome D.
Published: May 2007

Hypertension management is both routine and a challenge. Updated guidelines emphasize the need to achieve increasingly stringent blood pressure goals to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; however, the blood pressure of many patients who have been diagnosed with hypertension is not well controlled. Treating prehypertension nonpharmacologically may preempt the progression to hypertension, whereas early and aggressive management of hypertension with antihypertensive agents reduces short‐ and long‐term cardiovascular risk. Treatment decisions should follow current guidelines while evaluating recently published clinical studies. When choosing between agents from different therapeutic classes or combining agents, physicians should consider current and targeted blood pressure levels, the patient's demographic profile, the presence or absence of compelling cardiovascular and metabolic indications, other comorbidities, and concurrent medication(s).
Characterization of mononuclear cells remaining in the leukoreduction system chambers of apheresis instruments after routine platelet collection: a new source of viable human blood cells
Authors: Néron Sonia , Thibault Louis , Dussault Nathalie , Côté Geneviève , Ducas Éric , Pineault Nicolas , Roy Annie
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND: The yield of white blood cells (WBCs) extracted from whole‐blood leukoreduction filters can be affected by the storage conditions and delay before filtration. Platelets (PLTs) collected with apheresis instruments (Trima Accel, Gambro BCT) are leukoreduced during the procedure on a fluidized particle bed in a leukoreduction chamber (LRS chamber). In this report, the residual cell content of these LRS chambers was characterized to determine whether it would be a valuable source of viable human blood cells.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The content of LRS chambers was eluted by gravity, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) were purified on a Ficoll‐Paque gradient. Analyses were performed before and after freezing. Proportions of CD3+, CD14+, CD16+, CD19+, CD34+, and CD45+ cells were determined by flow cytometry. The frequency of T cells expressing CD4, CD8, and CD27 and of B cells expressing immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, and CD27 was also determined.

RESULTS: LRS chambers held approximately 109 CD45+ cells representing the normal proportions of CD3+, CD14+, CD16+, and CD19+ cell populations of PBMNCs. A small fraction of these CD45+ cells were CD34+CD38+ cells (0.3 ± 0.2%). The viability of these cells, measured before and after freezing, was more than 95 percent.

CONCLUSION: The residual cell content of Trima Accel LRS chambers recovered after PLT collection is a good source of viable monocytes and lymphocytes. These PBMNCs, containing CD3+, CD14+, CD16+, CD19+, and CD34+ cells can be frozen to prepare cell banks, which opens new avenues for utilization in several physiologic studies or even in cellular therapy applications.
Differences in functional activity and antigen expression of granulocytes primed in vivo with filgrastim, lenograstim, or pegfilgrastim
Authors: Ribeiro Daniel , Veldwijk Marlon R. , Benner Axel , Laufs Stephanie , Wenz Frederik , Ho Anthony D. , Fruehauf Stefan
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND: Granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) is known to affect functional activity and antigen expression of neutrophil granulocytes. Beside nonglycosylated filgrastim and glycosylated lenograstim, pegylated filgrastim (pegfilgrastim) has recently been introduced for single administration into clinical use.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Here, granulocytes from 27 patients with nonmyeloid malignancies were compared functionally (migration, reactive oxygen species production, and G‐CSF serum levels) and phenotypically (cell surface antigen expression) before and after G‐CSF administration.

RESULTS: After exposure to G‐CSF, chemotaxis was reduced significantly in the filgrastim group. Immunophenotypically, in vivo G‐CSF–primed granulocytes were more mature in the lenograstim than in the filgrastim and to lesser extent in the pegfilgrastim groups as shown by the expression profile for CD11b, CD14, and CD16. Of note, G‐CSF serum levels were similar among the groups.

CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that granulocytes exposed to glycosylated G‐CSF in vivo seem to resemble more closely their steady‐state phenotype than after treatment with nonglycosylated and to lesser extent pegylated G‐CSF.
Racial Disparity in Clinical Outcomes Following Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Influence of Process of Care
Authors: JACOBI JOSHUA A. , PARIKH SHAILJA V. , McGUIRE DARREN K. , DELEMOS JAMES A. , MURPHY SABINA A. , KEELEY ELLEN C.
Published: May 2007

Previous studies have shown that compared with white patients, non‐white patients with ST
elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have worse clinical outcomes. Differences in co‐morbidities, extent and severity of coronary artery disease, health insurance, and socioeconomic status have been identified as possible reasons for this disparity. However, an alternative explanation for such observed disparities in outcomes could be differences in process of care. For example, in most of these studies, non‐white patients were less likely to receive reperfusion therapy, and if treated, were more likely to receive thrombolysis than to undergo primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We hypothesized that if all patients were treated similarly with primary PCI, there would be no difference in clinical outcomes. We analyzed the demographic, angiographic, in‐hospital clinical outcomes, and long‐term mortality rates of a racially diverse group of patients presenting to the same hospital with STEMI, all of whom were treated with primary PCI. Our data demonstrate that compared with white patients, non‐white patients with STEMI who undergo primary PCI have similar in‐hospital clinical outcomes and one‐year mortality. This suggests that the previously observed differences in mortality rates may be, at least in part, attributable to differences in the process of care, and not solely to differences in patient factors or differential therapeutic effects.
Neurostimulation therapies in depression: a review of new modalities
Authors: Marangell L. B. , Martinez M. , Jurdi R. A. , Zboyan H.
Published: May 2007

Objective:  In response to an increased understanding of the neurobiology of severe psychiatric disorders, new therapeutic modalities are entering clinical practice that involve the direct stimulation of the brain.

Method:  We provide a review of published literature regarding the clinical use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) in psychiatric disorders, with an emphasis on treatment‐resistant depression (TRD).

Results:  Vagus nerve stimulation is approved for use in both the EU and US for TRD. TMS has been approved for TRD in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union and Israel, but not yet in the United States. DBS remains in the early stages of investigation.

Conclusion:  While additional studies are clearly warranted, treatments that directly stimulate the brain appear to hold great therapeutic promise for severe psychiatric disorders.
The impact of contact with psychiatry on senior medical students’ attitudes toward psychiatry
Authors: Holm‐Petersen C. , Vinge S. , Hansen J. , Gyrd‐Hansen D.
Published: May 2007

Objective:  To investigate the attitudes of Danish medical students as to the attractiveness of psychiatry as a career possibility and to asses the impact on such attitudes of actual contact with psychiatry.

Method:  A base‐line survey included 222 senior medical students, of whom 160 were also surveyed subsequent to a 4‐week psychiatric affiliation.

Results:  The base‐line survey shows that psychiatry is rated as less attractive than other specialization groups, and that working as health assistants in psychiatric wards contributes to the problematic image. However, a 4‐week psychiatric affiliation resolves a number of image issues, and following such an affiliation more medical students were considering specializing in psychiatry.

Conclusion:  The findings of this study suggest that psychiatric affiliations can influence students’ attitudes to psychiatry. The observed changes in attitudes lead to the presumption that some aspects of the image problem of psychiatry stem from inadequate knowledge of psychiatry as a specialty and the actual work psychiatrists perform.
European citizens’ opinions on water fluoridation
Authors: Griffin Marcus , Shickle Darren , Moran Nicola
Published: May 2007

Abstract –  Objectives:  To understand European citizens’ opinions on water fluoridation, as part of research on their attitudes to the tensions between private and public interest.

Methods:  Sixty‐eight focus groups held (with an average of eight people per group) in September and October 2003 in 16 countries (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK).

Results:  Most participants were against water fluoridation, although groups in Greece, Ireland, Poland and Sweden were more in favour. Many felt dental health was an issue to be dealt with at the level of the individual, rather than a solution to be imposed en masse. While people accepted that some children were not encouraged to brush their teeth, they proposed other solutions to addressing these needs rather than having a solution of unproved safety imposed on them by public health authorities whom they did not fully trust. They did not see why they should accept potential side effects in order that a minority may benefit. In particular, water was something that should be kept as pure as possible, even though it was recognized that it already contains many additives.

Conclusions:  While the vast majority of people opposed water fluoridation, this may be indicative of shifts away from public support of population interventions towards private interventions, as well as reduced trust in public agencies. Thus if research were to demonstrate more clear benefits of water fluoridation over and above that which can be achieved by use of fluoride toothpaste, then the public may become more supportive. However, lobby groups are likely to remain influential.
Lack of effect of oral selenite on p53 associated gene expression during TL01 therapy of psoriasis patients
Authors: DeSilva Bernadette , Beckett Geoffrey J. , McLean Steven , Arthur John R. , Hunter John A. A. , Norval Mary , McKenzie Roddie C.
Published: May 2007

Selenium (Se) has protective properties against ultraviolet (UV)‐induced changes in skin cells in vitro but little is known about such activity in human subjects. In the present study, seven patients with psoriasis ingested 400 μg of sodium selenite daily during a 4 week course of whole‐body narrow‐band UVB (TL01) therapy while six more psoriasis patients, similarly irradiated, ingested a placebo. Skin biopsies, collected at the start and end of the phototherapy were analysed for phosphorylated p53, Fas, Bcl‐2, Bax and oxidized guaninosine, and for numbers of Langerhans and sunburn cells. Following the TL01 therapy, no significant difference was observed for any of these markers when the Se group was compared with the placebo group of patients, although p53 and Bcl‐2 expression decreased in the Se supplemented group.
Fox‐P3‐positive regulatory T cells are present in the skin of generalized atopic eczema patients and are not particularly affected by medium‐dose UVA1 therapy
Authors: Schnopp Christina , Rad Roland , Weidinger Anke , Weidinger Stefan , Ring Johannes , Eberlein Bernadette , Ollert Markus , Mempel Martin
Published: May 2007

Background: Regulatory T cells (T‐reg cells) have been described as an important cell population in the UV treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.

Methods: We have treated five patients with generalized atopic eczema (AE) using medium‐dose (15 cycles of 50 J/cm2, total dose of 750 J/cm2) UVA1 therapy and have analyzed the skin‐infiltrating T‐cellular subsets before and after therapy. Skin biopsies were split for immunohistochemistry and Real‐time PCR and analyzed for CD4, Fox‐P3, GATA‐3, and IL‐10 transcription as well as for CD3, CD4, CD152, Fox‐P3, and GITR staining.

Results: In all the investigated patients, we observed a good clinical response to UVA1. As described previously, the number of epidermal T cells slightly declined after irradiation. However, we did not observe a general decrease in T cell numbers. Within the population of T cells, no specific difference in the kinetics of Fox‐P3‐positive cells and Fox‐P3‐specific mRNA was noted as compared with GATA‐3 positive T cells. These results were paralleled by RT‐PCR for IL‐10 and staining for CD152, a surface molecule that has been described for T‐reg cells.

Conclusion: In our hands, the clinical benefit of UVA1 treatment in AE patients does not seem to be due to a preferential survival/proliferation of T‐reg cells.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of Lactobacillus brevis (CD2) on periodontal disease
Authors: Riccia DN Della , Bizzini F , Perilli MG , Polimeni A , Trinchieri V , Amicosante G , Cifone MG
Published: May 2007

Objectives:  To analyze the anti‐inflammatory effects of Lactobacillus brevis extracts on periodontitis patients and to investigate the involved mechanisms in vitro on activated macrophages.

Methods:  Eight healthy subjects and 21 patients with chronic periodontitis were enrolled to analyze the effect of L. brevis‐containing lozenges on periodontitis‐associated symptoms and signs. Before and after the treatment, the patients received a complete periodontal examination. Saliva samples, collected before and after treatment, were analyzed for metalloproteinase and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, immunoglobulin‐A (IgA), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and γ‐interferon (IFN‐γ) levels. Arginine deiminase (AD) and NOS activities were determined through a radiometric assay. Metalloproteinases were assayed by zymogram and Western blotting, whereas IgA, PGE2 and IFN‐γ were assayed by enzyme‐linked imunosorbent assay tests.

Results:  The treatment led to the total disappearance or amelioration of all analyzed clinical parameters in all patients. This was paralleled to a significant decrease of nitrite/nitrate, PGE2, matrix metalloproteinase, and IFN‐γ levels in saliva samples.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that the anti‐inflammatory effects of L. brevis could be attributed to the presence of AD which prevented nitric oxide generation. Our findings give further insights into the knowledge of the molecular basis of periodontitis and have a potential clinical significance, giving the experimental ground for a new innovative, simple and efficacious therapeutical approach of periodontal disease.
The organotellurium compound ammonium trichloro(dioxoethylene‐o,o′)tellurate reacts with homocysteine to form homocystine and decreases homocysteine levels in hyperhomocysteinemic mice
Authors: Okun Eitan , Dikshtein Yahav , Carmely Alon , Saida Hagar , Frei Gabi , Sela Ben‐Ami , Varshavsky Lydia , Ofir Asher , Levy Esthy , Albeck Michael , Sredni Benjamin
Published: May 2007

Ammonium trichloro(dioxoethylene‐o,o′)tellurate (AS101) is an organotellurium compound with pleiotropic functions that has been associated with antitumoral, immunomodulatory and antineurodegenerative activities. Tellurium compounds with a +4 oxidation state, such as AS101, react uniquely with thiols, forming disulfide molecules. In light of this, we tested whether AS101 can react with the amino acid homocysteine both in vitro and in vivo. AS101 conferred protection against homocysteine‐induced apoptosis of HL‐60 cells. The protective mechanism of AS101 against homocysteine toxicity was directly mediated by its chemical reactivity, whereby AS101 reacted with homocysteine to form homocystine, the less toxic disulfide form of homocysteine. Moreover, AS101 was shown here to reduce the levels of total homocysteine in an in vivo model of hyperhomocysteinemia. As a result, AS101 also prevented sperm cells from undergoing homocysteine‐induced DNA fragmentation. Taken together, our results suggest that the organotellurium compound AS101 may be of clinical value in reducing total circulatory homocysteine levels.
Inhibition of an iron‐responsive element/iron regulatory protein‐1 complex by ATP binding and hydrolysis
Authors: Popovic Zvezdana , Templeton Douglas M.
Published: May 2007

Iron regulatory protein‐1 binding to the iron‐responsive element of mRNA is sensitive to iron, oxidative stress, NO, and hypoxia. Each of these agents changes the level of intracellular ATP, suggesting a link between iron levels and cellular energy metabolism. Furthermore, restoration of iron regulatory protein‐1 aconitase activity after NO removal has been shown to require mitochondrial ATP. We demonstrate here that the iron‐responsive element‐binding activity of iron regulatory protein is ATP‐dependent in HepG2 cells. Iron cannot decrease iron regulatory protein binding activity in cell extracts if they are simultaneously treated with an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation. Physiologic concentrations of ATP inhibit iron‐responsive element/iron regulatory protein binding in cell extracts and binding of iron‐responsive element to recombinant iron regulatory protein‐1. ADP has the same effect, in contrast to the nonhydrolyzable analog adenosine 5′‐(β,γ‐imido)triphosphate, indicating that in order to inhibit iron regulatory protein‐1 binding activity, ATP must be hydrolyzed. Indeed, recombinant iron regulatory protein‐1 binds ATP with a Kd of 86 ± 17 µm in a filter‐binding assay, and can be photo‐crosslinked to azido‐ATP. Upon binding, ATP is hydrolyzed. The kinetic parameters [Km = 5.3 µm, Vmax = 3.4 nmol·min−1·(mg protein)−1] are consistent with those of a number of other ATP‐hydrolyzing proteins, including the RNA‐binding helicases. Although the iron‐responsive element does not itself hydrolyze ATP, its presence enhances iron regulatory protein‐1's ATPase activity, and ATP hydrolysis results in loss of the complex in gel shift assays.
Structure of Streptococcus agalactiae serine/threonine phosphatase
Authors: Rantanen Mika K. , Lehtiö Lari , Rajagopal Lakshmi , Rubens Craig E. , Goldman Adrian
Published: May 2007

We solved the crystal structure of Streptococcus agalactiae serine/threonine phosphatase (SaSTP) using a combination of single‐wavelength anomalous dispersion phasing and molecular replacement. The overall structure resembles that of previously characterized members of the PPM/PP2C STP family. The asymmetric unit contains four monomers and we observed two novel conformations for the flap domain among them. In one of these conformations, the enzyme binds three metal ions, whereas in the other it binds only two. The three‐metal ion structure also has the active site arginine in a novel conformation. The switch between the two‐ and three‐metal ion structures appears to be binding of another monomer to the active site of STP, which promotes binding of the third metal ion. This interaction may mimic the binding of a product complex, especially since the motif binding to the active site contains a serine residue aligning remarkably well with the phosphate found in the human STP structure.
Genetic defects in common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Kopecký O. , Lukešová Š.
Published: May 2007

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most frequent clinically manifested primary immunodeficiency. According to clinical and laboratory findings, CVID is a heterogeneous group of diseases. Recently, the defects of molecules regulating activation and terminal differentiation of B lymphocytes have been described in some patients with CVID. In this study, we show the overview of deficiencies of inducible costimulator, transmembrane activator and calcium‐modulator and cytophilin ligand interactor, CD19 molecules, their genetic basis, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations.
Sequence‐based typing of a novel HLA‐DRB1*04 allele, DRB1*0461, in a Taiwanese volunteer marrow donor
Authors: Chen M. J. , Chu C. C. , Lin P. Y. , Yang K. L.
Published: May 2007

We report here a novel HLA‐DRB1 allele, DRB1*0461, discovered in a Taiwanese volunteer marrow donor. The new sequence has nucleotide variation at positions 260 (C→A) and 261 (C→G), i.e. codon 58, as compared to DRB1*0408. Nucleotide change caused an amino acid substitution from alanine to glutamic acid. We believe that the gene conversion took place between DRB1*0405 and DRB1*1101 based on sequence homology and gene frequency in population studies. In comparison to DRB1*0405, DRB1*0461 has two amino acid changes at codons 57 and 58. Amino acid residue substitution at position 57 may affect peptide‐binding environment at pocket P9 of the antigen‐binding groove of the MHC molecule. This would have potential effect in peptide binding as well as in T‐cell recognition, which could have clinical significance in bone marrow and organ transplantations.
Constraining H0 from the Sunyaev–Zel'dovich effect, galaxy cluster X-ray data and baryon oscillations
Authors: Cunha J. V. , Marassi L. , Lima J. A. S.
Published: May 2007

Estimates of H0 from the Sunyaev–Zel'dovich effect (SZE) and X-ray surface brightness of galaxy clusters depends on the underlying cosmology. In the current Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) flat cosmology, a possible technique to broke the degeneracy on the mass density parameter (Ωm) is to apply a joint analysis involving the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAOs). By adopting this technique to the (H0, Ωm) parameter space, we obtain new constraints on the Hubble constant H0 from BAO signatures as given by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) catalogue. Our analysis based on the SZE/X-ray data for a sample of 25 clusters yields H0= 74+4−3.5 km s−1 Mpc−1 (1σ, neglecting systematic uncertainties). This result is in good agreement with independent studies from the Hubble Space Telescope key project and the recent estimates of the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe, thereby suggesting that the combination of these three independent phenomena provides an interesting method to constrain the Hubble constant.
Correlation of macroscopic instability and Lyapunov times in the general three-body problem
Authors: Mikkola Seppo , Tanikawa Kiyotaka
Published: May 2007

We conducted extensive numerical experiments of equal mass three-body systems until they became disrupted. The system lifetimes, as a bound triple, and the Lyapunov times show a correlation similar to what has been earlier obtained for small bodies in the Solar system. Numerical integrations of several sets of differently randomized initial conditions produced the same relationship of the instability time and Lyapunov time. Marginal probability densities of the various times in the three-body experiments are also discussed. Our high accuracy numerical method for three-body orbit computations and Lyapunov time determinations is concisely described.
EFFECT OF LACTIC ACID AND LACTIC ACID BACTERIA TREATMENT ON MYOFIBRILLAR PROTEIN DEGRADATION AND DYNAMIC RHEOLOGY OF BEEF
Authors: SIGNORINI M. , SALAZAR J.A. , PONCE‐ALQUICIRA E. , GUERRERO‐LEGARRETA I.
Published: May 2007

Lactic acid has been used as an efficient decontaminant in meats aimed for direct consumption or product fabrication. However, reports on the functionality of proteins extracted from lactic acid‐treated meat are scattered. The objective of this work was to study the degradation and gelling ability of myofibrillar protein extracts obtained from beef treated with lactic acid of chemical and microbial origins, stored at 4 and 20C. The gelling ability was considerably reduced by lactic acid treatment as a result of protein denaturation in acid conditions at both storage temperatures. Scanning electron microscopy showed loose structures resulting in low penetration resistance and storage modulus. Treatments with lactic acid or lactic acid bacteria (LAB) had similar effect on tanδ, affecting gel rigidity but not elasticity. Penetration in gels obtained from LAB‐treated meat was highly correlated with myosin degradation. Lactobacillus carnis‐treated meat produced compact gels with high penetration resistance and storage modulus, although the structure became looser with storage time. LAB treatment, although not as efficient as lactic acid as a meat preservative, is a milder process causing less severe changes in meat structure rheology.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The potential of lactic fermentation by selected strains is somewhat limited as compared to lactic acid preservation of meat substrates, regarding pH reduction and its consequence on pathogens and spoilage microorganism population reduction. However, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) treatments are milder; therefore, changes in protein structure and rheology are less severe. Lactic acid in its chemical form promotes protein changes, whereas LAB does not. As myofibrillar protein configuration is responsible for most meat functional properties, such as gel and emulsion formation, it is important that protein structure remains unchanged as much as possible. Using nonproteolytic strains, protein degradation can only be altered by endogenous or bacteria‐produced enzymes, which can be inhibited by several means. Meat preservation by lactic fermentation with selected strains can be an alternative when keeping meat protein functional properties unaltered.
Unscrambling the research: Eggs, serum cholesterol and coronary heart disease
Authors: NATOLI Sharon , MARKOVIC Tania , LIM David , NOAKES Manny , KOSTNER Karam
Published: May 2007

The role of dietary cholesterol in raising plasma cholesterol levels has been debated over the past 25 years. Consequently, eggs, as a food high in dietary cholesterol, have been targeted as a food to limit when advising patients on a diet to lower serum cholesterol levels. The aim of the present review was to evaluate the literature to address the effects of dietary cholesterol from eggs on serum cholesterol levels and risk of coronary heart disease. An increase in dietary cholesterol from eggs by 100 mg daily, equivalent to half a medium egg or three to four eggs a week, results in an increase of approximately 0.05 mmol/L in LDL cholesterol. Adding 100 mg of cholesterol per day (equivalent to three to four eggs a week) to a high saturated fat diet caused an increase in LDL cholesterol of 0.061 ± 0.006 mmol/L, whereas adding the same quantity of cholesterol to a low saturated fat diet caused an increase in LDL cholesterol of only 0.036 ± 0.004 mmol/L (P = 0.03). Despite the small increase in LDL‐cholesterol levels with increasing egg intake, most epidemiological studies have shown little or no association between egg intake and risk of coronary heart disease. However, the impact of dietary cholesterol for people with type 2 diabetes has been poorly studied. In conclusion, in a healthy Western population, there is insufficient evidence to excessively restrict egg intake as part of a healthy diet. Eggs should be considered in a similar way as other protein‐rich foods and selected as part of a varied diet that is low in saturated fat and contains a variety of cardio‐protective foods such as fish, wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts.
Thick, cheap and easy: Fortifying texture‐modified meals with infant cereal
Authors: KENNEWELL Suzanne , KOKKINAKOS Maria
Published: May 2007

Patients requiring texture‐modified meals, particularly those with dysphagia, were identified as being at high risk of malnutrition and aspiration. The innovative use of a common infant cereal as an iron‐fortified thickening agent significantly improved food texture and increased iron content of pureed and minced meals by 57%, without any discernible change in flavour. These results are currently benefiting up to 33% of patients and can be directly applied to all areas where consumers require thickened, iron‐rich texture‐modified meals with minimal additional cost.
Development and reproducibility of a tool to assess school food‐purchasing practices and lifestyle habits of Australian primary school‐aged children
Authors: FINCH Meghan , BEGLEY Andrea , SUTHERLAND Rachel , HARRISON Michelle , COLLINS Clare
Published: May 2007

Objective:  To describe the development and reproducibility of a self‐report instrument, for use with children in years 4–6, to identify sources of food eaten during the day, and type and frequency of food purchases at school.

Design:  Tool development stages included formulation of content and format, expert review, piloting and a test–retest study.

Subjects/setting:  The pilot study included school students (n = 20) in years 4 and 5 (seven girls, mean age 9.7 ± 0.7 years) attending an Australian public primary school. The test–retest study was performed in a large metropolitan public primary school (n = 245 children, 52% female, mean age 10.7 ± 0.91 years) including children from years 4 (n = 88), 5 (n = 84) and 6 (n = 73).

Statistical analysis:  A Kappa statistic was used to assess level of agreement between the two time periods separated by 1 week. The results were analysed using SAS version 8.2 with each question compared at time 1 and 2.

Results:  The mean kappa was 0.529 using pairings from 17 questions. Values ranged from 0.18 to 0.71 (CI 0.46–0.60).

Conclusions and applications:  The School Eating Habits and Lifestyle Survey has been developed and pilot‐tested in primary school‐aged children and shown to have moderate stability over time. The results show that each phase of development, particularly those spent in consultation and testing, led to progressive improvement of this instrument. This process improved the quality of information produced and gave insights to self‐report of dietary intake and behaviours among children.
The Bulk Analysis of Silicate Rocks by Portable X‐Ray Fluorescence: Effect of Sample Mineralogy in Relation to the Size of the Excited Volume
Authors: Potts Philip J. , Williams‐Thorpe Olwen , Webb Peter C.
Published: May 2007

This paper examines the limitations arising from sample mineralogy when a portable X‐ray fluorescence instrument is applied to the direct in situ analysis of silicate rocks. Estimates were made of the size of the excited volume from which the X‐ray fluorescence signal originates by calculating the critical penetration depth for selected X‐ray lines. Measurements were made of the variations in detected intensities over the area of the P‐XRF analyser window and showed that, using radioisotope sources incorporated in the instrument used in this study (Spectrace TN9000), excitation intensities were six to ten times greater at the centre compared to the edge of the analyser window. These data indicated that the region of the sample at the centre of the window will make an enhanced contribution to detected spectra. Replicate measurements on slabs of rock selected to represent fine‐to coarse‐grain size textures indicated the magnitude of the sampling precision that can be achieved in the direct analysis of silicate rocks. Typical values were better than 5% relative standard deviation of the mean from an average of five determinations on fine‐ to medium‐grained rocks and better than 10 % relative standard deviation in a single determination on these samples.
Cd, Gd and Sm Concentrations in BCR‐1, BHVO‐1, BIR‐1, DNC‐1, MAG‐1, PCC‐1 and W‐2 by Isotope Dilution Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sands Daphne G. , Rosman Kevin J.R.
Published: May 2007

Cadmium, gadolinium and samarium concentrations were determined in seven geochemical reference materials by isotope dilution thermal ionisation mass spectrometry. The results for all three elements in BCR‐1 are in excellent agreement with the compiled values as well as the literature values dete‐mined by isotope dilution mass spectrometry. The agreement with compiled values on the other material is generally good except for Cd where the values for BHVO‐1, BIR‐1, DNC‐1 and W‐2 need to be revised.
The Development of Laser Ablation ICP‐MS and Calibration Strategies: Examples from the Analysis of Trace Elements in Volcanic Glass Shards and Sulfide Minerals
Authors: Perkins William T. , Pearce Nicholas J.G. , Westgate John A.
Published: May 2007

This contribution presents a review of the recent developments in laser ablation inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. We describe the important developments which have occurred in the laser systems used, leading to a spatial resolution of around 20 (im, and give an overview of the major instrument developments which have affected the geological applications of laser ablation ICP‐MS. We describe the calibration of laser ablation for the analysis of trace elements in two different matrices: volcanic glass shards and sulfide minerals. We show how single glass shards can be analysed using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) glass certified reference materials for calibration and demonstrate the effect of using single spot analyses compared to rastering of the calibration sample. We show the importance of inter‐shard variation and demonstrate that averaged single shard analyses produce data which compare well with bulk analyses. The calibration of the laser system for sulfide mineral analysis is discussed and two different strategies are proposed, one using spiked pressed powder pellets of sulfides and the other metal reference materials. We present conclusions and recommendations for the calibration of laser ablation ICP‐MS instruments.
Ultra‐Trace Element Analysis of NIST SRM 616 and 614 using Laser Ablation Microprobe‐Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry (LAM‐ICP‐MS): a Comparison with Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS)
Authors: Horn Ingo , Hinton Richard W. , Jackson Simon E. , Longerich Henry P.
Published: May 2007

The microanalytical capability of laser ablation microprobe‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LAM‐ICP‐MS) to determine ultra trace elemental concentrations has been demonstrated by the analysis of two low concentration glass standard reference materials, NIST SRM 614 and 616. Results for fifty two elements at concentrations in the low ng g‐1 range are compared with those determined using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Both techniques provide results at these concentrations that generally agree within 95% confidence limits, demonstrating the accuracy for ultra‐trace level of in situ determinations by the two techniques. At concentrations of less than 20 ng g‐1 in NIST SRM 616, an accuracy and precision of better than 10% has been obtained for most mono‐isotopic rare earth elements, when a spot size of 50 μm is used. Limits of detection for selected elements were as low as 0.5 ng g‐1.
Trace Element Determination of Single Fluid Inclusions in Quartz by Laser Ablation ICP‐MS
Authors: McCandless Tom E. , Lajack David J. , Ruiz Joaquin , Ghazi A. Mohammad
Published: May 2007

Single fluid inclusions in quartz from a Pb‐Zn‐Ag carbonate replacement deposit were selected for trace element determination by laser ablation ICP‐MS. Spikes in element intensities were noted between first breached fluids versus subsequent analyses, suggesting that accurate element concentrations may not be determined in smaller fluid inclusions when only one analysis is obtained before the fluid is exhausted. Elemental concentrations in the fluid inclusions were determined by external standardisation using solutions sealed in microcapillary tubes. Standards and single natural inclusion analyses give repeatabilities (%RSD) of ˜ 20% for Rb and Sr. Rubidium and strontium concentrations range from 0.56‐5.07 μg ml‐1 and 1.12‐27.4 μg ml‐1, respectively, whereas Zn and Ag are below detection limits (< 10 ng ml‐1). The results suggest that nearly all Zn and Ag are removed by the time hydrothermal fluids precipitate gangue minerals.
Platinum‐Group Elements and Gold Determination in NiS Fire Assay Buttons by UV Laser Ablation ICP‐MS
Authors: Jorge Alexandre P.de S. , Enzweiler Jacinta , Shibuya Elisa K. , Sarkis Jorge E.S. , Figueiredo Ana Maria G.
Published: May 2007

The direct analysis of nickel sulfide fire assay buttons by UV laser ablation ICP‐MS was used to determine the platinum‐group elements and gold in the following reference materials: UMT‐1, WPR‐1, WMG‐1, GPt‐4, GPt‐6 and CHR‐Bkg. The instrument was calibrated with buttons prepared using quartz doped with the appropriate standard solutions. Analytical precision (RSD) was generally better than 10%, although occasional higher RSDs may infer local heterogeneities within nickel sulfide buttons. Good or excellent agreement was observed between analysed and reference material values except Rh in UMT‐1 and WMG‐1, which suffered an interference from copper. Detection limits calculated as 10 s quantitation limits were Au (1.7 ng g−1), Pd (3.3 ng g−1), Pt (8.3 ng g−1), Os (1.3 ng g−1), Rh (1 ng g−1), Ru (5 ng g−1) and Ir (0.7 ng g−1).
High Resolution Stepped‐Combustion Mass Spectrometry: Application to the Detection and Analysis of Fine‐Grained Diamond in Meteorites and Rocks
Authors: Boyd Stuart R. , Wright Ian P. , Alexander Conel M.O'D. , Pillinger C.T.
Published: May 2007

An analytical system and operating protocol are described for high resolution, stepped‐combustion mass spectrometry, designed for the extraction, purification, quantification and isotopic analysis of light elements (e.g. C and N) in fine‐grained reduced components (e.g. diamond) which have been chemically extracted from natural samples (e.g. meteorites). Specifically, a simple model has been developed for the extraction of diamond from meteorite and its analysis by high resolution stepped heating under an atmosphere of oxygen. Changes in the pressure of oxygen within the range 1.3 to 12kPa (10 to 90 torr) were not found to have any detectable effect on the combustion. Results obtained by this procedure were compared with those predicted by a model and excellent agreement was found, taking into account the limitations of this approach. Results of a preliminary attempt to find fine‐grained diamond in a lamproite are outlined.
The Need for a Common Framework for Collection and Interpretation of Data in Platinum‐Group Element Geochemistry
Authors: McDonald Iain
Published: May 2007

Platinum‐group element (PGE) concentrations and the distribution of the metals in rocks serve as important tracers of mantle processes, as well as extraterrestrial input into crustal environments, but common standards regarding the gathering and presentation of PGE data have never been formalized. Effective modelling assumes that concentration data are within acceptable levels of precision, yet the practices used in some studies to determine precision do not adequately assess precision and, as a result, the uncertainties on PGE concentrations and PGE ratios are sometimes consistently underestimated. This article argues that replicate analyses of unknowns must be adopted more widely in order to overcome this problem. Related to the issue of uncertainties on PGE concentrations, is the issue of uncertainty associated with normalisation. Arguments have recently been put forward as to the significance of small positive or negative anomalies on chondrite nor‐malized plots. At least four CI chondrite PGE datasets (of varying age and quality) are currently used for normalisation and significantly different patterns can be derived simply by using one dataset rather than another. This article is intended to open a debate within the PGE research community by asking whether more consistency needs to be applied in PGE analysis and in the subsequent interpretation of data. A rigorous assessment of the real uncertainties on PGE concentrations and the adoption of a standard CI chondrite PGE dataset, in order to eliminate bias from normalisation, are suggested to be central to this.
GeoPT2. International Proficiency Test for Analytical Geochemistry Laboratories ‐ Report on Round 2
Authors: Thompson Michael , Potts Philip J. , Kane Jean S. , Webb Peter C. , Watson John S.
Published: May 2007

Results from sixty laboratories participating in GeoPT2, the international proficiency testing programme for analytical geochemistry laboratories, are reported. Compared with 71.3% in the last round, 74.6% of the reported data complied with the laboratories’ selected fitness for purpose criteria.
Determination of the Platinum‐Group Elements and Gold in Twenty Rock Reference Materials by Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry (ICP‐MS) after Pre‐Concentration by Nickel Sulfide Fire Assay
Authors: Plessen Hans‐Gerrit , Erzinger Jörg
Published: May 2007

The platinum‐group elements (PGE) and gold have been determined in twenty international rock reference materials by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) after pre‐concentration by a nickel sulfide fire assay. It was possible to achieve determination limits for a 50 g sample that ranged from 1 pg g‐1 (Rh) to 23 pg g‐1 (Au). Compared to published certified and recommended values for rock reference materials, the trueness of the method was found to be good. However, in some cases we observed large deviations for all elements in the sub 10 ng g‐1 range within individual reference sample splits. Our results show that the PGE and Au are inhomogeneously distributed in the reference materials analysed here, where they are present in low concentrations, using 50 g test portions.
Boron Determination in Twenty One Silicate Rock Reference Materials by Isotope Dilution ICP‐MS
Authors: D'Orazio Massimo
Published: May 2007

The concentration of boron was determined in twenty one geochemical reference materials (silicate rocks) by isotope dilution inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Boron was extracted from the rocks using HF digestion, suppressing boron volatilisation through boron‐mannitol complexation. Sample solutions, in a diluted HCl matrix, were analysed by ICP‐MS without any separation of boron from the matrix elements. The results obtained were in agreement with the literature data and indicate that using the described procedure, trace amounts of boron can be very easily determined in complex matrices with rapidity and precision. With the instrumentation and reagents used in this study, this procedure can be used for the determination of 0.5 μg g−1 boron in a 15 0 mg silicate rock sample. Replicate analyses of the twenty one geochemical reference materials (GRM), ranging in boron concentration from 1.35 to 15 7 μg g−1, yielded precisions (relative standard deviation) varying between 0.9 and 9.8%.
Determination of Rare Earth Elements in Geological Reference Materials: A Comparative Study by INAA and ICP‐MS
Authors: Kin Fung Dai , Prudêncio M. Isabel , Gouveia M. Ângela , Magnusson Erik
Published: May 2007

Data was obtained for the rare earth elements (REE) by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) in twenty geological reference materials. In general, the precision obtained by ICP‐MS is better for the light REE, decreasing with increasing atomic number. This is partly a result of the occurrence of the heavy REE at low concentrations. The precision of the data obtained by INAA is good (5% RSD). The data obtained also showed that for the elements determined by both methods, the accuracy is similar for the light REE and better for the middle and heavy REEs by INAA. Higher uncertainty is achieved by ICP‐MS mainly for elements at very low concentrations, occurring at about ten times the chondritic values.
SIMS Determination of μg g−1‐Level Fluorine in Geological Samples and its Concentration in NIST SRM 610
Authors: Hoskin Paul W.O.
Published: May 2007

The fluorine concentration in NIST SRM 610 was determined by SIMS to be 295 16 μg g−1 (5.40% relative standard deviation). Accuracy of the measurement was determined from a calibration involving the synthesis of glass calibration samples doped with varying concentrations of fluorine and characterized by electron microprobe analysis and SIMS. The calibration was accurate to about 5%. Multiple analyses of the calibration samples and SRM 610 in three different analytical sessions combine to produce a low relative standard deviation of the mean (0.23% RSD) in the mean fluorine value for SRM 610. Analytical uncertainty in the fluorine value was 5.40% (RSD), originating from a combination of calibration and ion counting uncertainties as determined from multiple analyses. Evaluation of the SIMS technique using the new fluorine value in SRM 610 shows that this element can be determined with a precision and accuracy superior to that of EPMA. Measurements of fluorine in igneous and hydrothermal zircon suggest that F‐ligands may have been responsible for Zr transportation in hydrothermal fluids also responsible for W‐Au mineralisation. Other applications for low‐level fluorine determinations may include melt inclusions and nominally anhydrous mineral phases, particularly mantle phases.