bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of drugs in secondary disease progression in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kappos Ludwig
Published: May 2004

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) is a form of MS characterized by continuously worsening disability with or without superimposed relapses that occurs after a variable period of relapsing remitting disease and results in limited ambulation for almost all patients. The use of interferon beta (IFN b) for immunomodulation in patients with SPMS has been evaluated in four recent clinical trials: The European multicentre trial on IFN b-1b in SPMS (EUSPMS), the Secondary Progressive Efficacy Trial of Rebif (IFN b-1a) in MS (SPEC TRIMS), the North A merican Study of IFN b-1b in SPMS (NA SPMS), and the Internatio nal MS Secondary Progressive Avonex C linical Trial (IMPAC T). EUSPMS was the only trial to demonstrate a significant positive effect of therapy on disease progression as measured by the expanded disability status scale (EDSS). However, results from all studies demonstrated significant positive effects of treatment on relapse, T2 lesion load, and gadolinium enhancement. Immunomodulation with IFN b has the potential to significantly slow disease progression and improve quality of life for patients with SPMS. While results with monthly IV Ig were disappointing, positive effects on disease progression have been reported with the applicatio n of immunosuppressants, especially Mitoxantrone. The risk-benefit ratio of these cytostatic agents remains controversial. New strategies addressing the important neurodegenerative aspects of the disease are urgently needed.
On the horizon: possible neuroprotective role for glatiramer acetate
Authors: Kreitman Rivka Riven , Blanchette François
Published: May 2004

Inflammation and neurodegeneration characterize the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Slow axonal degeneration, rather than acute inflammation, is considered the cause of chronic disability in MS. The signs of acute axonal damage and loss have been shown to occur early in the lesion development of patients with chronic MS and often correlate with demyelination and inflammation. While immune activity in the central nervous system has traditionally been considered to be a detrimental event in MS, recent studies have found that autoimmune T cells may play an important role in protecting neurons from the ongoing spreading damage. Neuroprotectio n in MS is a new and evolving concept, and many questions remain with regard to potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Preliminary studies, both in animals and in humans, have suggested that glatiramer acetate (GA) may confer neuroprotective activity in addition to bystander suppression. Additional research is needed to determine if these promising neuroprotective effects correlate with the long-term effect of G A in MS.
The Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Cell System and Its Tumors: The WHO Classification
Authors: KLÖPPEL GÜNTER , PERREN AUREL , HEITZ PHILIPP U.
Published: May 2004

Abstract: Although well established in medical terminology, the term carcinoid is no longer adequate to cover the entire morphological and biological spectrum of neoplasms of the disseminated neuroendocrine cell system. Therefore, instead of carcinoid, the WHO classification published in 2000 uses the general terms neuroendocrine tumor and neuroendocrine carcinoma. In this review a classification of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors based on the WHO criteria is described. We also classify and comment on the most important tumor entities. On the basis of localization and of various morphological and biological criteria, we distinguish between benign neuroendocrine tumors, tumors with uncertain malignant potential, and tumors showing low‐grade and high‐grade malignancy.
The stability of an optimal maintenance strategy for repairable assets
Authors: Archibald T W , Ansell J I , Thomas L C
Published: May 2004

Equipment in the process industry is often subject to decay and requires maintenance, repair and eventual replacement. The challenge of competition and the accompanying regulatory regime requires that actions be integrated and cost effective. Ansell and colleagues in 2001 explored an approach to the assessment of asset life of maintained equipment in the process industry using a semiparametric approach. Using stochastic dynamic programming techniques an approach to find the optimal strategy was also developed by Ansell and colleagues. The approach was illustrated using data from the water industry. A major aspect in the development of optimal strategy for repair and replacement is the cost of these activities. Often the costs can only be ascertained roughly in terms of hours expended on the activity. Detailed costings are rarely available. The discount factor will depend on the interest rate in place. Generally a conservatively high level has been taken but with current low rates one needs to explore the sensitivity of solution to the discount factor. Also there is a need to explore the sensitivity of the solution to changes in the costs of the maintenance activities involved. In this paper we explore the stability of the results to changes in the relative costs. It is seen that two costs seem to be more important than the others; hence the accounting effort appears to be best directed towards these costs. One concern that arises from these results is the impact of the maintenance events. In past modelling the impact of maintenance has been assumed to have a fixed effect. This was derived from study of data. It is felt that this assumption may be too simple and so a differing model is explored to examine this issue.
The Influence of Oxygen and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α on the Cellular Kinetics of Term Placental Villous Explants in Culture
Authors: Crocker Ian P. , Tansinda Dympna M. , Jones Carolyn J.P. , Baker Philip N.
Published: May 2004

Explanted placental fragments may provide a more physiological in vitro model of component cell function than single cell isolates. We have characterized these fragments for cell turnover and have monitored responses from 14 normal placentas under conditions of exogenous TNFα and atypical oxygen concentrations (3% and 17%), conditions associated with abnormal pregnancy and an aberrant in utero environment. Explants were assessed for apoptotic morphology, immunolocalization of Mib-1 (a proliferation marker), caspase 3 activity (an apoptosis promoter), lactate dehydrogenase (a necrosis marker), and human chorionic gonadotrophin [hCG, a marker of cytotrophoblast (CT) differentiation]. Consistent with a reduction in hCG, explants under 17% O2 (with and without TNFα) showed a progressive degeneration of syncytiotrophoblast (ST) (days 0–2) followed by a restoration of hCG (days 4–8) localized to newly differentiated but not syncytialized CTs. In 3% O2, hCG showed the same initial decline but failed to recover thereafter. Proliferation dropped significantly in 17% O2 but was restored and exaggerated sixfold in 3% O2. All reductions in hCG were associated with cell death and caspase-3. Early apoptosis was linked with syncytial loss; later apoptosis (days 8–11) was localized to the non-ST. Prolonged exposure to TNFα (days 4–11) increased ST apoptosis and necrosis but 3% O2 had no significant effect. These findings show that placental explants can accommodate many aspects of CT proliferation, differentiation, and ST apoptosis in culture. TNFα enhanced ST decline but 3% oxygen (compared with 17%) was associated with reduced CT differentiation and a strong shift towards proliferation. These outcomes may reflect previous morphological changes in compromised pregnancies and confirm a possible role for oxygen and TNFα in aberrant trophoblast turnover.
Quantification of In Situ Hybridization Signals in Rat Testes
Authors: Kimura Touji , Kosaka Jun , Nomura Takako , Yamada Teruo , Miki Yukari , Takagi Koji , Kogami Takashi , Sasaki Junzo
Published: May 2004

We performed basic research into quantifying in situ hybridization (ISH) signals in rat testis, a suitable organ for the quantification because germ cells undergo synchronized development and show stage-specific gene expression. In this model experiment, rRNA was selected as the hybridizable RNA in paraffin sections. Specimens fixed with Bouin's fixative and hybridized with digoxygenin-labeled probes could easily be analyzed quantitatively through “posterization” of the images. The amount of rRNA hybridized with the probe was greatest in early primary spermatocytes, followed by pachytene primary spermatocytes, then diplotene spermatocytes, and finally by secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. The amounts reached low levels in metaphase, anaphase, and telophase of meiotic division and early step 1 spermatids, and then slightly increased during spermiogenesis. ISH rRNA staining was a useful parameter for evaluation of the quantitative analysis of mRNA and the levels of hybridizable RNA in tissue sections. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:813–820, 2004)
Improved Immunohistochemical Method for Detecting Hypoxia Gradients in Mouse Tissues and Tumors
Authors: Samoszuk Michael K. , Walter James , Mechetner Eugene
Published: May 2004

We describe an improved immunohistochemical procedure for detecting regions of hypoxia in normal organs and tumors in mice. The method employs a primary fluorescein-conjugated mouse monoclonal antibody directed against pimonidazole protein adducts that are created in hypoxic tissues and a secondary mouse anti-fluorescein antibody that is conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. Using these reagents, we clearly visualized the regions of relative hypoxia in implanted tumors in mice as well as in normal organs such as liver and kidney. Significantly, the resulting tissue sections were remarkably free of the background staining that is characteristically observed when rodent antibodies are used to detect antigens in rodent tissues.
Catalan city cinema
Authors: Faulkner Sally
Published: May 2004

This article analyses Ventura Pons’s cinematic adaptation of Sergi Belbel’s play Carícies/Caresses in the context of theoretical discussions of the depiction of urban space (especially David Clarke’s differentiation between ‘visuality’ and
‘hapticality’ in cinema and Michel de Certeau’s opposition of the ‘voyeur’ and the ‘walker’ in the city) and Henri Lefebvre’s thesis on ‘absolute’ and ‘abstract’ spaces developed in his The Production of Space (1974).
In the light of these debates, the study offers a reading of Carícies as a portrait of contemporary urban malaise, but also discusses the way that a fascinating articulation of nostalgia emerges, towards the end of the film, from the principal theme of urban violence. Finally, this
discussion of Pons’s city chronicle locates Carícies within the context of a familiar theme in Iberian culture as a whole, the portrayal of the country and the city.
Purinergic and Vanilloid Receptor Activation Releases Glutamate from Separate Cranial Afferent Terminals in Nucleus Tractus Solitarius
Authors: Jin Young-Ho , Bailey Timothy W. , Li Bai-yan , Schild John H. , Andresen Michael C.
Published: May 2004

Vanilloid (VR1) and purinergic (P2X) receptors are found in cranial afferent neurons in nodose ganglia and their central terminations within the solitary tract nucleus (NTS), but little is known about their function. We mechanically dissociated dorsomedial NTS neurons to preserve attached native synapses and tested for VR1 and P2X function primarily in spindle-shaped neurons resembling intact second-order neurons. All neurons (n= 95) exhibited spontaneous glutamate (EPSCs) and GABA (IPSCs)-mediated synaptic currents. VR1 agonist capsaicin (CAP; 100 nm) reversibly increased EPSC frequency, effects blocked by capsazepine. ATP (100 μm) increased EPSC frequency, actions blocked by P2X antagonist pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2′, 4′-disulfonic acid (PPADS; 20 μm). In all CAP-resistant neurons, P2X agonist αβ-methylene-ATP (αβ-m-ATP) increased EPSC frequency. Neither CAP nor αβ-m-ATP altered EPSC amplitudes, kinetics, or holding currents. Thus, activation of VR1 and P2X receptors selectively facilitated presynaptic glutamate release on different NTS neurons. PPADS and 2′,3′-O-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)-ATP blocked αβ-m-ATP responses, but P2X1-selective antagonist NF023 (8,8′-[carbonylbis (imino-3,1-phenylene carbonylimino)]bis-1,3,5-naphthalenetrisulfonic acid) did not. The pharmacological profile and transient kinetics of ATP responses are consistent with P2X3 homomeric receptors. TTX and Cd2+did not eliminate agonist-evoked EPSC frequency increases, suggesting that voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels are not required. In nodose ganglia, CAP but not αβ-m-ATP evoked inward currents in slow conducting neurons and the converse pattern in myelinated, rapidly conducting neurons (n= 14). Together, results are consistent with segregation of glutamatergic terminals into either P2X sensitive or VR1 sensitive that correspondingly identify myelinated and unmyelinated afferent pathways at the NTS.
Extracellular Signal-Regulated Protein Kinase Activation Is Required for Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor-Dependent Long-Term Depression in Hippocampal Area CA1
Authors: Gallagher Sean M. , Daly Christine A. , Bear Mark F. , Huber Kimberly M.
Published: May 2004

Activation of group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) induces long-term depression (LTD) of synaptic transmission that relies on dendritic protein synthesis. We investigated the signal transduction pathways required for mGluR-LTD to identify candidate mechanisms for mGluR regulation of synaptic protein synthesis. Our results demonstrate a role for extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), a subclass of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), in mGluR-LTD in area CA1 of the rat hippocampus. Inhibitors of the upstream kinase of ERK, MAP/ERK kinase significantly reduce mGluR-LTD induced by the group 1 agonist dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) and synaptic stimulation but do not affect NMDA receptor-dependent LTD. In contrast, inhibitors of p38 MAPK were ineffective against DHPG-induced LTD. Consistent with the role of ERK in mGluR-LTD, we observed that DHPG treatment of hippocampal slices (isolated CA1), at concentrations that induce LTD, results in a robust phosphorylation of ERK but not of p38 MAPK. These results point to ERK as an important regulator of mGluR-LTD and a potential mechanism for mGluR regulation of synaptic protein synthesis.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Tyrosine Kinase Receptor B Involvement in Amygdala-Dependent Fear Conditioning
Authors: Rattiner Lisa M. , Davis Michael , French Christopher T. , Ressler Kerry J.
Published: May 2004

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor, tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB), play a critical role in activity-dependent synaptic plasticity and have been implicated as mediators of hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. The present study is the first to demonstrate a role for BDNF and TrkB in amygdala-dependent learning. Here, the use of Pavlovian fear conditioning as a learning model allows us to examine the concise role of BDNF in the amygdala after a single learning session and within a well understood neural circuit. Usingin situhybridization, mRNA levels of six different trophic factors [BDNF, neurotrophin (NT) 4/5, NGF, NT3, aFGF, and bFGF) were measured at varying time points during the consolidation period after fear conditioning. We found temporally specific changes only in BDNF gene expression in the basolateral amygdala after paired stimuli that supported learning but not after exposure to neutral or aversive stimuli alone. Using Western blotting, we found that the Trk receptor undergoes increased phosphorylation during this consolidation period, suggesting an activation of the receptor subsequent to BDNF release. Furthermore, disruption of neurotrophin signaling with intra-amygdala infusion of the Trk receptor antagonist K252a disrupted acquisition of fear conditioning. To address the specific role of the TrkB receptor, we created a novel lentiviral vector expressing a dominant-negative TrkB isoform (TrkB.T1), which specifically blocked TrkB activationin vitro.In vivo, TrkB.T1 lentivirus blocked fear acquisition without disrupting baseline startle or expression of fear. These data suggest that BDNF signaling through TrkB receptors in the amygdala is required for the acquisition of conditioned fear.
A Clinical Comparison of Calculated versus Direct Measurement of Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Level
Authors: Lindsey Cameron C. , Graham Maqual R. , Johnston Thomas P. , Kiroff Chelsea G. , Freshley Anna
Published: May 2004

Study Objectives. To determine if, and to what extent, the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) level is underestimated when it is calculated by the Friedewald formula compared with the LDL level measured by a direct method. A secondary objective was to determine and compare the percentages of patients meeting LDL goal using each of these two methods.

Design. Retrospective chart review.

Setting. Kansas City Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Subjects. Patients aged 18 years or older and whose laboratory results reflected a complete lipid profile for 1 year.

Measurement and Main Results. Calculated LDL level (C‐LDL) was derived using the Friedewald formula and was compared with Wako method–derived direct LDL level (D‐LDL) to ascertain whether a positive correlation existed. The absolute difference between the methods for each sample was determined and compared overall and for various subgroups. The number of patient samples achieving National Cholesterol Education Program–defined LDL goal was determined and compared for both methods. A total of 20,224 lipid profiles were generated and 19,343 were included in the analysis. A strong correlation was found between D‐LDL and C‐LDL (r = 0.94). The absolute difference between the two methods demonstrated an underestimation of C‐LDL of 19.5 ± 11.8 mg/dl. The degree of underestimation increased as the triglyceride level increased (p<0.05). Age within the fifth and sixth decades resulted in significantly higher differences compared with age in the eighth decade or greater (p<0.05). Female sex and elevated body mass index also resulted in increased discrepancies between the two methods (p<0.05 for both). Seventy‐six percent of the lipid profiles were derived from patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) or a CHD risk equivalent. Approximately one half of these patients met their LDL goal when LDL level was measured versus calculated (p<0.0001).

Conclusion. When compared with D‐LDL, an underestimation of approximately 20 mg/dl was found with C‐LDL, resulting in a loss of LDL goal attainment for half of the patients with CHD or a CHD risk equivalent.
Evaluation of Fatigability of the Levator Veli Palatini Muscle during Continuous Blowing Using Power Spectra Analysis
Authors: Tachimura Takashi , Nohara Kanji , Satoh Koichi , Wada Takeshi
Published: May 2004

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the fatigability of the levator veli palatini (LVP) muscle during blowing in speakers who exhibit velopharyngeal incompetence with that from normal speakers by means of power spectra analysis.

Design

All subjects were instructed to blow into a tube for more than 10 seconds at maximum possible effort. The LVP muscle activity (electromyography) was sampled at 2 kHz for 10 seconds from the time when the oral air pressure during blowing was stabilized. These samples were subjected to Fast Fourier Transfer analysis with analytic windows of 0.5-second width. The electromyography mean power frequency slope with respect to time for each subject was estimated.

Participants

Three speakers with repaired cleft palate and three normal speakers were selected as subjects.

Results

The slopes of the regression lines for all three subjects with repaired cleft palate were negatively signed with statistical significance (t test, p < .01). The slopes for all of the normal speakers were negatively signed, but these were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the LVP muscle of speakers with repaired cleft palate who exhibit varying degrees of velopharyngeal dysfunction may deteriorate more easily in comparison with the LVP muscle of normal speakers.
Epidemiology of Cleft Palate in Europe: Implications for Genetic Research
Authors: Calzolari Elisa , Bianchi Fabrizio , Rubini Michele , Ritvanen Annukka , Neville Amanda J.
Published: May 2004

Objective

To describe the epidemiology of cleft palate (CP) in Europe.

Design and Setting

A descriptive epidemiological study on 3852 cases of CP, identified (1980 through 1996) from more than 6 million births from the EUROCAT network of 30 registers in 16 European countries.

Results

Significant differences in prevalence in Europe between registries and within countries were observed. A total of 2112 (54.8%) CP cases occurred as isolated, 694 (18.0%) were associated with other defects such as multiple congenital anomalies, and 1046 (27.2%) were in recognized conditions. The study confirmed the tendency toward female prevalence (sex ratio [SR] = 0.83), particularly among isolated cases (SR = 0.78) even if SR inversion is reported in some registries. A specific association with neural tube defects (NTDs) in some registers is reported.

Conclusion

The differences identified in Europe (prevalence, sex, associated anomalies) can be only partially explained by methodological reasons because a common methodology was shared among all registries for case ascertainment and collection, and CP is an easy detectable condition with few induced abortions. The complex model of inheritance and the frequently conflicting results in different populations on the role of genes that constitute risk factors suggest the presence of real biological differences. The association of CP/NTD in an area with a high prevalence of NTDs can identify a group of conditions that can be considered etiologically homogeneous. The epidemiological evaluation can guide genetic research to specify the role of etiological factors in each different population
Clinical Findings in Four Brazilian Families Affected by Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome without TWIST Mutations
Authors: Nascimento Sandra R. D. , de Mello Maricilda P. , Batista Juliano C. , Balarin Marly A. S. , Lopes Vera L. Gilda Silva
Published: May 2004

Objective

To analyze the dysmorphological variability and to investigate the presence of mutations in the exon 1 of TWIST gene using direct sequencing in Brazilian families presenting with Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome (SCS).

Methods

Four families with 24 patients diagnosed as having features of SCS were studied. Phenotypic characteristics of all patients were inventoried. The investigation protocol included anamnesis, dysmorphological examination, abdominal ultrasound, spine and cranium x-ray, chromosomal analysis on GTG banding, and screening for mutations in the exon 1 of TWIST gene.

Results

Frequent facial features included brachycephaly (24 of 24), facial asymmetry (20 of 24), prominent ears crus (15 of 24), low-set ears (14 of 24), maxillary hypoplasia (13 of 24), prominent nasal bridge (13 of 24), ptosis of the eyelids (12 of 24), and low-set frontal hairline (12 of 24). Limb abnormalities such as partial hand cutaneous syndactyly (18 of 24), clinodactyly (13 of 24), and broad great toes (13 of 24), and partial cutaneous syndactyly of the feet (9 of 24) were also detected. Among radiological findings were relevant bicoronal (eight of nine) and unicoronal (one of nine) craniosynostosis, digital impressions (eight of nine), bilateral parietal foramina (two of nine), partial fusion 1 and 2 degrees costal arches (two of nine) and bifid spine on lumbar vertebra (two of nine). GTG-banding chromosomal analyses were normal. No TWIST gene mutations were found.

Conclusions

Affected individuals in these four SCS families may carry mutations in other genes of the same developmental pathway. Considering the complexity of the genes involved in skull-limbs development, an accurate dysmorphological evaluation in patients with SCS and their families is especially important for genetic counseling.
Transverse Craniofacial Features and Their Genetic Predisposition in Families with Nonsyndromic Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Yoon Young-Jooh , Perkiomaki Marja R. , Tallents Ross H. , Barillas Ingrid , Herrera-Guido Roberto , Fong Chin-To , Kyrkanides Stephanos
Published: May 2004

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the transverse craniofacial form in families with nonsyndromic cleft lip and palate (NSCLP). It was hypothesized that affected as well as noncleft NSCLP family members are characterized by a common array of craniofacial features that differ from the general population.

Design

This was a prospective cross-sectional investigation that included affected children with NSCLP and their noncleft parents and siblings.

Patients, Participants

A total of 114 subjects (14 affected girls, 17 affected girls, 15 unaffected male siblings, 10 unaffected female siblings, 29 unaffected biological mothers, and 29 unaffected biological fathers) were included. Subject records comprised of posteroanterior cephalometric radiographs obtained from all 114 subjects.

Main Outcome Measures

The width of midfacial structures, including the orbit and nose, was increased in NSCLP families, compared with published norms. Interestingly, the face was disproportionally wider in relation to total facial height. The transverse craniofacial form of children with or without clefts significantly correlated with that of their parents. Mothers displayed strong correlation with their affected and unaffected sons, whereas fathers correlated to their daughters, suggesting a possible sex-linked developmental influence.

Conclusion

Better understanding of the genetic inheritance of craniofacial features associated with cleft lip and palate may ultimately contribute to the development of cleft risk assessment methods.
Buccinator Sandwich Pushback: A New Technique for Treatment of Secondary Velopharyngeal Incompetence
Authors: Hill C. , Hayden C. , Riaz M. , Leonard A. G.
Published: May 2004

Objective

A small percentage of patients have inadequate velopharyngeal closure, or secondary velopharyngeal incompetence, following primary palatoplasty. Use of the buccinator musculomucosal flap has been described for primary palate repair with lengthening, but its use in secondary palate lengthening for the correction of insufficient velopharyngeal closure has not been described. This study presents the results of a series of patients who had correction of secondary velopharyngeal incompetence using bilateral buccinator musculomucosal flaps used as a sandwich.

Patients

In this prospective study between 1995 and 1998, a group of 16 patients with insufficient velopharyngeal closure as determined by speech assessment and videoradiography were selected. Nasopharyngoscopy was carried out in addition in a number of cases. Case selection was a result of these investigations and clinical examination in which the major factor in velopharyngeal insufficiency was determined to be short palatal length.

Design

The patients underwent palate lengthening using bilateral buccinator musculomucosal flaps as a sandwich. All patients were assessed 6 months postoperatively. The operative technique, postoperative course, and recorded postoperative complications including partial/total flap necrosis and residual velopharyngeal insufficiency were evaluated. Preoperative and postoperative speech samples were rated by an independent speech therapist.

Results

Ninety-three percent (15 of 16) had a significant improvement in velopharyngeal insufficiency, and 14 patients had no hypernasality postoperatively. Both cases of persistent mild hypernasality had had a recognized postoperative complication.

Conclusion

The sandwich pushback technique for the correction of persistent velopharyngeal incompetence was successful in achieving good speech results.
A Review of Feeding Interventions for Infants with Cleft Palate
Authors: Reid Julie
Published: May 2004

Objective

A literature review was conducted to identify feeding interventions recommended for infants with cleft conditions. Selected articles were critically appraised using an evidence-based practice framework to determine the strength of the evidence underpinning each intervention.

Design

Electronic databases were searched for reports of cleft palate feeding interventions. The selected articles were coded as being data driven or not; those containing data were then critically appraised using a recognized evidence hierarchy. Finally, each report was ascribed a level of evidence (from I to IV), depending on the quality of data presented.

Results

Fifty-five articles published between 1955 and 2002 were reviewed. There are currently no completed systematic reviews relevant to this body of literature (level I evidence). Two well-designed randomized controlled trials (level II evidence) were found. These were considered to provide the strongest evidence for feeding intervention techniques. These articles described a combination of interventions, including early feeding and nutrition education, as well as assisted feeding methods for infants with isolated cleft conditions. Three examples of level III.3 evidence were also found. Fifty (91%) of 55 articles reviewed were non–data-driven reports of expert opinion (level IV).

Conclusions

A paucity of evidence rated as either moderate or strong prevailed, underscoring the need for ongoing scientific evaluation of feeding interventions used with infants who have cleft palate. A number of factors, including the heterogeneity of samples studied, lack of replication of trials, and small sample sizes, affected the type and strength of evidence underpinning specific feeding interventions.
Non‐linear and non‐constant variance calibration curves in analysis of volatile organic compounds for testing of water by the purge‐and‐trap method coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Lavagnini Irma , Favaro Gabriella , Magno Franco
Published: May 2004

Currently used operating conditions for analysing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by purge‐and‐trap gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) produced non‐linear calibration curves with non‐uniform variance. Second‐order polynomial models therefore had to be used in weighted regression analysis of measurements of replicates spiked at various concentrations. A transparent procedure based on a reported method of very low computational complexity allowed calculation of the parameters of second‐order models, confidence bands of regression lines, prediction bands, and confidence intervals of discriminated analyte concentrations. Tolerance intervals were introduced for this last purpose. Critical, detection and quantification levels drawn from the calibration curves were compared with those calculated by the EPA method. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A narrowly spaced double‐seismic zone in the subducting Nazca plate
Authors: Rietbrock A. , Waldhauser F.
Published: May 2004

High‐precision relocations of intermediate‐depth earthquakes (80–130 km) below the Central Andes reveal a fine‐scale double‐layered Wadati‐Benioff zone (WBZ). Upper and lower band of seismicity are separated by about 9 km and occur at the top of the oceanic crust and in the uppermost oceanic mantle, respectively. Analysis of focal mechanisms and waveform similarities indicate that fluid processes are causing the events. Earthquakes in the oceanic crust occur on pre‐existing normal faults due to hydraulic embrittlement from metamorphic dehydration, and on subvertical faults that connect the two layers in a narrow depth range. Extensional faulting predominates in both layers, indicating that slab pull forces are the dominant stress source superseding possible unbending forces in this segment of the Nazca plate.
High-shear-rate optical rheometer
Authors: Mriziq K. S. , Dai H. J. , Dadmun M. D. , Jellison G. E. , Cochran H. D.
Published: May 2004

We have developed a parallel-plate rheometer in a magnetic-disk drive configuration constructed of optically transparent materials and operating with a very small gap for measurements at very high shear rates. The friction force at the disk–slider interface has been measured as a function of sliding speed while the film thickness was monitored in situ using a capacitance technique. The shear rate is calculated from the film thickness and the sliding speed. A thin film can be applied on the disk, which allows very high-shear-rate measurements at low sliding speeds with negligible viscous heating. Both disk and slider have been made of optically transparent material to allow optical measurements simultaneously with the rheological measurements. In the present mode, the apparatus is set up for simultaneous rheometery and birefringence measurements on a thin film of polymer lubricant. Rheology and birefringence measurements were made on a perfluoropolyether lubricant over a range of strain rate from 103 s−1 to greater than 106 s−1 with 800 nm, 400 nm, and 200 nm film thicknesses.
Infrared line collisional parameters of HCl in argon, beyond the impact approximation: Measurements and classical path calculations
Authors: Boulet C. , Flaud P.-M. , Hartmann J.-M.
Published: May 2004

Measurement of room temperature absorption by HCl–Ar mixtures in the 1–0 and 2–0 bands have been made for pressures between 10 and 50 atm. Fits of these spectra are made for the determination of the width, spectral shift, asymmetry, and intensity of individual lines. The broadening and shifting parameters are in satisfactory agreement with previous determinations but provide the first complete and self-consistent sets covering P(15)–R(14) and P(7)–R(8) in the 1–0 and 2–0 bands, respectively. The asymmetries of the profiles, which have been studied for the first time, are smaller than typically 10−3 atm−1 and cannot be determined experimentally. On the other hand, the intensities of the low j lines show a significant linear decrease with increasing Ar pressure. Calculations of all measured quantities are made with a classical path approach and an accurate vibrational-dependent HCl–Ar potential energy surface (PES). Comparisons with experimental values show that widths and shifts are well predicted, confirming the quality of the PES and of the theoretical model, and the calculations confirm that asymmetries are small. The damping factors of the intensities are analyzed by considering three contributions: The first is due to the formation of van der Waals complexes, the second results from the finite duration of collisions, and the last comes from initial correlations. Calculations indicate that the last process has negligible consequences but that the first two processes lead to effects of the same order and explain most of the observed decrease of the intensities, even if some discrepancies persist for the |m|=1 rotational components.
Oscillatory wetting instability induced by liquid–liquid decomposition in a Ga–Pb alloy
Authors: Turchanin A. , Tsekov R. , Freyland W.
Published: May 2004

We present the first experimental investigation and pertinent theoretical modeling of an interfacial oscillatory instability in a binary fluid alloy, the Ga–Pb system. It is characterized by spinodal decomposition at elevated temperatures and by a complete wetting transition at liquid–liquid coexistence. For the alloy Ga0.95Pb0.05 the fluid interface has been probed by second harmonic generation (SHG) under UHV conditions at temperatures between 740 and 550 K. At conditions inside the miscibility gap clear oscillations of the SHG-intensity with a period of ∼30 min are found for different cooling cycles and also at constant temperatures. These interfacial oscillatory instabilities simultaneously induce temperature oscillations in the bulk fluid with the same period. This phenomenon can be explained by a periodic variation of the fluid interfacial emissivity. A model has been developed which describes the wetting–dewetting dynamics by hydrodynamic equations within the Reynolds approximation. It is found that the interfacial oscillatory instability is determined by capillary-gravitation instability. The model quantitatively describes the time evolution of the interfacial and temperature oscillations and gives the correct value of the oscillation period. A detailed comparison of the experimental and model results is given.
Magnetic susceptibility of resonance donor impurities of transition elements in semiconductors
Authors: Okulov V. I. , Alshanskii G. A. , Konstantinov V. L. , Korolyov A. V. , Neifeld É. A. , Sabirzyanova L. D. , Pamyatnykh E. A. , Paranchich S. U.
Published: May 2004

It is shown that in the resonance scattering of electrons on donor impurities of transition elements in semiconductors there is a contribution to the spin susceptibility from the electron density localized at the impurities. The Curie constant due to this has an unusual dependence on the impurity concentration. An expression for the spin susceptibility of resonantly scattered electrons is obtained in the Friedel approach. The experimental data obtained on mercury selenide containing iron impurities confirm the theoretical results and permit determination of the effective spin of the resonance state.
An application of flexible constraints in Monte Carlo simulations of the isobaric–isothermal ensemble of liquid water and ice Ih with the polarizable and flexible mobile charge densities in harmonic oscillators model
Authors: Saint-Martin Humberto , Hess Berk , Berendsen Herman J. C.
Published: May 2004

The method of flexible constraints was implemented in a Monte Carlo code to perform numerical simulations of liquid water and ice Ih in the constant number of molecules, volume, and temperature and constant pressure, instead of volume ensembles, using the polarizable and flexible mobile charge densities in harmonic oscillators (MCDHO) model. The structural and energetic results for the liquid at T=298 K and ρ=997 kg m−3 were in good agreement with those obtained from molecular dynamics. The density obtained at P=1 atm with flexible constraints, ρ=1008 kg m−3, was slightly lower than with the classical sampling of the intramolecular vibrations, ρ=1010 kg m−3. The comparison of the structures and energies found for water hexamers and for ice Ih with six standard empirical models to those obtained with MCDHO, show this latter to perform better in describing water far from ambient conditions: the MCDHO minimum lattice energy, density, and lattice constants were in good agreement with experiment. The average ∠HOH of the water molecule in ice was predicted to be slightly larger than in the liquid, yet 1.2% smaller than the experimental value.
Strain relaxation in AlN/GaN bilayer films grown on γ-LiAlO2(100) for nanoelectromechanical systems
Authors: Takagaki Y. , Sun Y. J. , Brandt O. , Ploog K. H.
Published: May 2004

We fabricate submicrometer-wide cantilevers and beams from M-plane AlN/GaN bilayer films grown on γ-LiAlO2(100) substrates. The chemically reactive substrate is ideal for fabrication of nanoelectromechanical systems using the light, stiff, and piezoelectrically active AlN. The absence of polarization fields in M-plane quantum wells allows us to incorporate optical functionalities in the (Al,Ga)N-based nanoelectromechanical systems. Self-rolling of the cantilevers indicates that the bilayer films are strained at the AlN–GaN interface along the a axis, whereas the strain is roughly completely relaxed along the c axis. We examine the partial relaxation of the strain along the a axis when the layer thickness is varied.
Nuclear magnetic resonance study of self-diffusion in liquid crystals
Authors: Kim Mi Jung , Cardwell Kate , Khitrin A. K.
Published: May 2004

A simple and accurate pulsed-gradient nuclear magnetic resonance technique for measuring coefficients of self-diffusion in liquid crystals is described. It is based on exciting sharp response signals with long weak pulses. The method uses an extremely weak radio-frequency field, which eliminates the problem of radio-frequency heating of the sample. The temperature dependencies of coefficients of self-diffusion for two liquid crystals, 5CB (4-pentyl-4′-cyanobiphenyl) and EBBA (N-(4-ethoxybenzylidene)-4-butylaniline), are presented.
Biaxial stress ring applications to magneto-optical studies of semiconductor films
Authors: Franco de Godoy Marcio Peron , Nakaema Marcelo K. K. , Iikawa Fernando , Carvalho Wilson , Ribeiro Evaldo , Gobbi Angelo L.
Published: May 2004

We present a magneto-optical system to study semiconductor heterostructures in the presence of an external biaxial tensile strain. The pressure cell is based on the deflection of a plate (the sample) placed between a sphere and a ring. This externally applied stress is easily controlled and can achieve a deformation of up to ∼0.25% for GaAs films. This device is very useful for band structure study and optical resonance experiments in heterostructures. We also present the application of the device to study the behavior of the magneto-excitons in InP epitaxial layer as a function of the biaxial strain. We observed that the diamagnetic and Zeeman effects in InP films are affected by the biaxial tensile strain.
Overall mechanical transfer function calculated for a spherical resonant gravitational waves antenna
Authors: Melo José L. , Velloso Walter F. , Aguiar Odylio D.
Published: May 2004

In this article, we describe the vibrational isolation system, the thermal link and the transducer mechanical structure, for the Schenberg resonant gravitational wave detector, which has been conceived modeled and analyzed using the finite element method. The dynamical equations corresponding to the structure have been solved using the MSC/NASTRAN software. In order to study the overall system behavior and the noise influence on it, we have carried out the analysis considering simultaneously all mechanical systems: vibrational isolation, thermal linking (between the dilution refrigerator and the suspension), and transducer-resonant mass mechanical coupling. Our calculation shows that a 300 dB attenuation level could be obtained.
Optically switched conductivity of epitaxial diamond on nitrogen doped diamond substrates
Authors: Geis M. W. , Krohn K. E. , Lawless J. M. , Deneault S. J. , Marchant M. F. , Twichell J. C. , Lyszczarz T. M. , Butler J. E. , Flechtner D. D. , Wright R.
Published: May 2004

Epitaxial diamond with remarkably low p-type doping (1×1014–1×1017 cm−3) and exceptionally low compensation ∼1×1013 cm−3, has enabled the demonstration of a optically-switched conduction modulation of the epitaxial layer. Charge exchange between the diamond substrate and the epitaxial layer makes it possible to modulate the conductivity of the epitaxial layer. Incandescent light will make the lightly p-doped epitaxial layer insulating and ultraviolet radiation will make the layer conductive again. Once the layer conductivity has been established it will remain in the same electrical state for days, if kept in the dark.
Ignition studies of Al/Fe2O3 energetic nanocomposites
Authors: Menon L. , Patibandla S. , Ram K. Bhargava , Shkuratov S. I. , Aurongzeb D. , Holtz M. , Berg J. , Yun J. , Temkin H.
Published: May 2004

We prepare energetic nanocomposites, which undergo an exothermic reaction when ignited at moderate temperature. The nanocomposites are a mixture of Al fuel and Fe2O3 oxidizer where Fe2O3 is in the form of an array of nanowires embedded in the thin Al film. We achieve a very high packing density of the nanocomposites, precise control of oxidizer–fuel sizes at the nanoscale level, and direct contact between oxidizer and fuel. We find that the flame temperature does not depend on ignition temperature.
Guided self-assembly of metallic nanowires and channels
Authors: Alaca B. Erdem , Sehitoglu Huseyin , Saif Taher
Published: May 2004

A method is presented to form metallic nanowires and nanochannels by guided self-assembly. The method relies on an initial plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition of a silicon oxide film with altered chemistry on a silicon wafer, and the cracking of the film due to tensile stresses upon annealing. The fabricated stress concentration features on the Si substrate control the number of cracks and their orientation. These cracks are then filled with electroless nickel, and the subsequent removal of SiO2 produces a controlled network of nanowires of about 100 nm in dimension. In addition to nanowires, nanobridges, and nanocantilevers have also been fabricated by releasing the wires, confirming that the resulting structures are rather robust.
Three-dimensional orientational colocalization of individual donor–acceptor pairs
Authors: Hübner Christian G. , Ksenofontov Vsevolod , Nolde Fabian , Müllen Klaus , Basché Thomas
Published: May 2004

We report on the determination of the three-dimensional orientation of the donor and acceptor transition dipoles in individual fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) pairs by means of scanning optical microscopy with annular illumination. Knowledge of the mutual orientation of the donor and acceptor dipole is mandatory for reliable distance determination based on FRET efficiency measurements. In our model system perylenediimide as the donor and terryelenediimide as the acceptor are coupled via a stiff p-terphenyl linker. The absorption dipoles of the donor and acceptor are selectively addressed by the 488 nm and 647 line of an Ar/Kr mixed gas laser, respectively. A clear deviation from collinearity is observed with a distribution of misalignment angles peaked around 22°.
Formation of titanium-solute clusters in alumina: A first-principles study
Authors: Matsunaga K. , Mizoguchi T. , Nakamura A. , Yamamoto T. , Ikuhara Y.
Published: May 2004

Electronic structures and stability of substitutional Ti3+ clusters in Al2O3 were investigated by first-principles pseudopotential calculations using large supercells. It was found that a substitutional Ti3+ defect induces an extra defect level in the band gap, and the defect levels have strong bonding interactions in the cluster formation. In addition, binding energies of Ti3+ clusters increased with increasing numbers of Ti3+ ions, indicating that cluster formation is energetically favorable. The resulting impurity band within the band gap of Al2O3 will contribute to the significant electronic conduction of Ti-doped Al2O3 observed experimentally.
Anomalous field-induced effects in the sound velocity in lead magnesium niobate probed by micro-Brillouin scattering
Authors: Lushnikov S. G. , Ko Jae-Hyeon , Kojima Seiji
Published: May 2004

Field-induced changes in Brillouin scattering spectra of the PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3 relaxor ferroelectric have been examined in the vicinity of a diffuse phase transition under a dc electric field oriented along the [111] direction. It has been established that the transition into an electric-field-induced ferroelectric phase is accompanied by a step-like anomaly in the sound velocity of the quasilongitudinal acoustic phonon (QLA) propagating along the [110] direction. The changes in QLA phonon velocity at the ferroelectric phase transition were found to be either reversible or irreversible in different regions of the induced ferroelectric phase. The experimental results are compared with E–T phase diagrams.
The Preparation of Methyl (E)- and (Z)-O-Methylbenzothiohydroximates
Authors: Johnson James E. , Canseco Diana C. , Rowe Jeffrey E.
Published: May 2004

A series of methyl (Z)-O-methylbenzothiohydroximates were prepared either by reaction of the corresponding (Z)-N-methoxybenzenecarboximidoyl bromides with potassium fluoride in dimethyl sulfoxide, or by reaction of N-methoxybenzamides with Lawesson’s reagent followed by alkylation. Irradiation of the Z isomers led to a photostationary equilibrium containing mixtures of approx. 40% E and 60% Z, from which the E isomers were isolated.