Fusimotor innervation in the cat

The motor innervation of cat spindles was examined in hindlimb muscles using a variety of techniques employed in light and electron microscopy. Observations were made on teased, silver preparations of 267 spindles sampled from the peroneal, flexor hallucis longus, and soleus muscles, hereafter referred to as the PER/FHL/SOL series. The γ innervation. Trail endings are almost invariably present, and innervate both bag and chain muscle fibres. Trail fibres accounted for 64.6 to 74.8% of the total fusimotor supply to samples of spindle poles in the PER/FHL/SOL series, the mean number of fibres per pole varying from 2.7 to 5.0 in the different muscles, and the mean number of ramifications (areas of synaptic contact) per fibre being 3.7. By contrast, the p₂innervation of a spindle pole generally consists of a single fibre supplying only one plate. In the above samples p(2) fibres accounted for 4.1 to 28.0% of the total fusimotor supply, and the mean number of fibres per pole varied from 0.3 to 1.2 in the different muscles. Ninety per cent of p(2) plates innervate bag fibres. The α innervation. The structure of p₁plates as seen in both light and electron microscopy compares very closely with that of extrafusal plates. After nerve section p₁plates degenerate at the same time as extrafusal plates, being the first of the three types of fusimotor ending to disappear. The frequency of the p₁innervation is similar to that of the p₂innervation. In the same samples of PER/FHL/SOL spindle poles as above p₁ fibres accounted for 6.0 to 28.8% of the total fusimotor supply, the mean number of fibres per pole varying from 0.25 to 2.1 in the different muscles. The majority of p₁ fibres enter a pole to terminate in one plate only. Seventy-five per cent of the plates innervate bag fibres. The three types of fusimotor ending are thus not selectively distributed to the two types of intrafusal muscle fibre. All three types of fusimotor fibre may branch within the spindle so as to innervate both bag and chain fibres. Bag fibres receive both types of plate ending as well as trail endings. Most chain fibres receive trail endings only; the rest receive either a p₁or a p₂plate innervation in addition, 25% of the p₁and 10% of the p₂innervation being distributed to chain fibres. The significance of this nonselective innervation is interpreted as indicating that the type of contraction elicited by stimulating a fusimotor fibre depends upon the type of ending initiating it rather than upon the type of muscle fibre executing it. Reasons are given for concluding that the dynamic response is controlled via the p₁and p₂plates, and that the static response is controlled by the trail endings. The participation of the α fibres in mammalian fusimotor innervation, previously regarded as a vestigial feature, proved to be widespread in the muscles studied and more prevalent in fast muscles (FHL, peroneus digiti quinti) than slow (soleus). A low frequency of p₁innervation is offset by a high frequency of p₂(as in peroneus longus), and vice versa (as in FHL). It is unlikely that collaterals from slow α fibres innervating type B muscle fibres are wholly responsible for the high frequency of the p₁innervation in FHL, and it is suggested that collaterals may also be derived from fast α fibres innervating type C muscle fibres. The possibility of there being some motor fibres of α conduction velocity and with an exclusively fusimotor distribution is also taken into account.

Directional limits on persistent gravitational waves using LIGO S5 science data

The gravitational-wave (GW) sky may include nearby pointlike sources as well as stochastic backgrounds. We perform two directional searches for persistent GWs using data from the LIGO S5 science run: one optimized for pointlike sources and one for arbitrary extended sources. Finding no evidence to support the detection of GWs, we present 90% confidence level (C.L.) upper-limit maps of GW strain power with typical values between 2-20×10(-50)  strain(2) Hz(-1) and 5-35×10(-49)  strain(2) Hz(-1) sr(-1) for pointlike and extended sources, respectively. The latter result is the first of its kind. We also set 90% C.L. limits on the narrow-band root-mean-square GW strain from interesting targets including Sco X-1, SN 1987A and the Galactic center as low as ≈7×10(-25) in the most sensitive frequency range near 160 Hz.

Molecular genetic and quantitative trait divergence associated with recent homoploid hybrid speciation: a study of Senecio squalidus (Asteraceae)

Hybridization is increasingly seen as a trigger for rapid evolution and speciation. To quantify and qualify divergence associated with recent homoploid hybrid speciation, we compared quantitative trait (QT) and molecular genetic variation between the homoploid hybrid species Senecio squalidus and its parental species, S. aethnensis and S. chrysanthemifolius, and also their naturally occurring Sicilian hybrids. S. squalidus originated and became invasive in the United Kingdom following the introduction of hybrid plants from Mount Etna, Sicily, about 300 years ago. We recorded considerable molecular genetic differentiation between S. squalidus and its parents and their Sicilian hybrids in terms of both reduced genetic diversity and altered allele frequencies, potentially due to the genetic bottleneck associated with introduction to the United Kingdom. S. squalidus is also distinct from its parents and Sicilian hybrids for QTs, but less so than for molecular genetic markers. We suggest that this is due to resilience of polygenic QTs to changes in allele frequency or lack of selection for hybrid niche divergence in geographic isolation. While S. squalidus is intermediate or parental-like for most QTs, some trangressively distinct traits were observed, which might indicate emerging local adaptation in its invasive range. This study emphasizes the important contribution of founder events and geographic isolation to successful homoploid hybrid speciation.

Cutting the research pie: a value-weighting approach to explore perceptions about psychosocial research priorities for adults with haematological cancers

Despite the burden of illness associated with haematological cancers, little research is available about improving psychosocial outcomes for this group. Given scarce research funds, it is important to ensure that resources are used strategically for improving their psychosocial well-being. This study aimed to identify the perceptions of professionals, patients and carers regarding prioritising psychosocial research efforts. First, an expert panel's views on priorities for research were identified. This was followed by a web survey to obtain the perceptions of 117 health professionals, patients and carers. The value-weighting survey used points allocation, allowing respondents to indicate the relative priority of each option. A substantial proportion of resources were allocated to patients who were newly diagnosed or receiving treatment. Less priority was given to other stages of the cancer journey or non-patient populations. There was no indication that any type of psychosocial research was a priority; however, some differences were identified when comparing the priorities of the three respondent groups. To improve psychosocial outcomes for haematological cancer patients, resources should be directed towards patients in the early stages of the cancer journey. There may be a need for research investigating potential interventions to improve psychosocial outcomes for patients with haematological cancers.

Phase I first-in-human study of the polo-like kinase-1 selective inhibitor, GSK461364, in patients with advanced solid tumors

3536

Background: Polo-like kinase-1 (Plk1), part of a family of highly conserved serine-threonine kinases, has multiple roles in mitotic progression, is over-expressed and also associated with poor prognosis in some tumor types. GSK461364 is a potent and selective ATP-competitive inhibitor of Plk1 (Ki 2.2nM) with demonstrated antiproliferative activity in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Adult patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory advanced solid tumors with performance status of 0–2 and adequate organ function were eligible. Sequential cohorts of 2–6 patients each received escalating doses of GSK461364 administered as a 4h intravenous infusion (Schedule [Sch] 1: D1,8,15 q28 or Sch 2: D1,2,8,9,15,16 q28). Primary objectives were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and pharmacokinetics (PK) of GSK461364. Secondary objectives included preliminary evaluation of anti-tumor activity. Results: 27 pts (20 male, 7 female) were evaluated. Four dose levels, 50mg (n = 2), 100 mg (n = 3), 150 mg (n = 3) and 225 mg (n = 8) were evaluated in Sch 1. Three dose levels, 25 mg (n = 2), 50 mg (n = 2) and 100 mg (n = 7) were evaluated in Sch 2. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) observed were Gr 4 sepsis, in Sch 1 at 225 mg dose, Gr 4 pulmonary embolism (PE) and Gr 4 neutropenia >7d in Sch 2, both at 100 mg dose. Other Sch 1 adverse events (AEs) with a maximum grade ≥3 were fatigue and anemia (both, n = 2), pleuritic pain, pelvic pain, abdominal discomfort, constipation, vomiting, neutropenia, and deep vein thrombosis (all, n = 1). Other Sch 2 AEs with a maximum grade ≥3 were PE, renal failure, thrombocytopenia, and catheter-related infection (all n = 1). The most common adverse events (AEs) regardless of attribution, Sch and dose level were phlebitis (n = 9), fatigue (n = 9), nausea (n = 7), anemia (n = 6), anorexia (n = 6), diarrhea (n = 6), and infusion site reaction (n = 5). Preliminary PK data indicate that AUC and Cmax were proportional across doses; mean values were CLs ∼72–85L/hr, Vss ∼550–1200L and t1/2 ∼11.5hr. Phospho-histone H3, a marker of mitotic arrest, was detected, in circulating tumor cells, 24 hrs after first dose. Stable disease >5m has been observed in 2 esophageal cancer pts. Conclusions: Dose escalation continues in Sch1, Sch2 has been expanded at 75mg. An MTD has not yet been defined.

[Table: see text]

All-sky LIGO search for periodic gravitational waves in the early fifth-science-run data

We report on an all-sky search with the LIGO detectors for periodic gravitational waves in the frequency range 50-1100 Hz and with the frequency's time derivative in the range -5 x 10{-9}-0 Hz s{-1}. Data from the first eight months of the fifth LIGO science run (S5) have been used in this search, which is based on a semicoherent method (PowerFlux) of summing strain power. Observing no evidence of periodic gravitational radiation, we report 95% confidence-level upper limits on radiation emitted by any unknown isolated rotating neutron stars within the search range. Strain limits below 10{-24} are obtained over a 200-Hz band, and the sensitivity improvement over previous searches increases the spatial volume sampled by an average factor of about 100 over the entire search band. For a neutron star with nominal equatorial ellipticity of 10{-6}, the search is sensitive to distances as great as 500 pc.

All-sky LIGO search for periodic gravitational waves in the early fifth-science-run data

We report on an all-sky search with the LIGO detectors for periodic gravitational waves in the frequency range 50-1100 Hz and with the frequency's time derivative in the range -5 x 10{-9}-0 Hz s{-1}. Data from the first eight months of the fifth LIGO science run (S5) have been used in this search, which is based on a semicoherent method (PowerFlux) of summing strain power. Observing no evidence of periodic gravitational radiation, we report 95% confidence-level upper limits on radiation emitted by any unknown isolated rotating neutron stars within the search range. Strain limits below 10{-24} are obtained over a 200-Hz band, and the sensitivity improvement over previous searches increases the spatial volume sampled by an average factor of about 100 over the entire search band. For a neutron star with nominal equatorial ellipticity of 10{-6}, the search is sensitive to distances as great as 500 pc.

All-sky LIGO search for periodic gravitational waves in the early fifth-science-run data

We report on an all-sky search with the LIGO detectors for periodic gravitational waves in the frequency range 50-1100 Hz and with the frequency's time derivative in the range -5 x 10{-9}-0 Hz s{-1}. Data from the first eight months of the fifth LIGO science run (S5) have been used in this search, which is based on a semicoherent method (PowerFlux) of summing strain power. Observing no evidence of periodic gravitational radiation, we report 95% confidence-level upper limits on radiation emitted by any unknown isolated rotating neutron stars within the search range. Strain limits below 10{-24} are obtained over a 200-Hz band, and the sensitivity improvement over previous searches increases the spatial volume sampled by an average factor of about 100 over the entire search band. For a neutron star with nominal equatorial ellipticity of 10{-6}, the search is sensitive to distances as great as 500 pc.

All-sky LIGO search for periodic gravitational waves in the early fifth-science-run data

We report on an all-sky search with the LIGO detectors for periodic gravitational waves in the frequency range 50-1100 Hz and with the frequency's time derivative in the range -5 x 10{-9}-0 Hz s{-1}. Data from the first eight months of the fifth LIGO science run (S5) have been used in this search, which is based on a semicoherent method (PowerFlux) of summing strain power. Observing no evidence of periodic gravitational radiation, we report 95% confidence-level upper limits on radiation emitted by any unknown isolated rotating neutron stars within the search range. Strain limits below 10{-24} are obtained over a 200-Hz band, and the sensitivity improvement over previous searches increases the spatial volume sampled by an average factor of about 100 over the entire search band. For a neutron star with nominal equatorial ellipticity of 10{-6}, the search is sensitive to distances as great as 500 pc.

Effect of popular takeaway foods on blood glucose levels in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients on intensive insulin therapy

AIMS

Intensive insulin therapy (IIT) is the preferred treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes, which requires them to calculate the total number of grams of carbohydrate eaten, but little research has been performed on the effect of mixed meals on blood sugar. We examined the effects of popular takeaway foods on glycaemic response in people with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Nine participants on IIT each consumed a pasta, Thai, hamburger and sandwich (cheese sandwich and an apple) meal on four different occasions, at least 3 days apart. The meals had the same amount of carbohydrate but different macronutrient quantities and different glycaemic indices (GI). Participants' normal basal insulin was given, but the mealtime bolus insulin was withheld to measure blood glucose level (BGL), every half hour for 3 h postprandially.

RESULTS

The glycaemic response as measured by 2-h BGL, the area under the BGL curve and BGL range (maximum-minimum over 3 h) were consistently lower after ingesting a low-GI high-fat pasta meal in relation to the other meals. There was no difference between the sandwich, Thai and hamburger meals. BGLs rose between 3.91 and 8.44 mmol/l at the conclusion of 3 h, which shows that a single CHO portion (15 g) can raise BGLs by 1-2 mmol/l, depending on the GI of the food.

CONCLUSIONS

People with type 1 diabetes on IIT who are concerned about postprandial glycaemic variability should consider not only overall carbohydrate content but also glycaemic index and fat content when adjusting insulin dosages.

Search for gravitational-wave bursts from soft gamma repeaters

We present a LIGO search for short-duration gravitational waves (GWs) associated with soft gamma ray repeater (SGR) bursts. This is the first search sensitive to neutron star f modes, usually considered the most efficient GW emitting modes. We find no evidence of GWs associated with any SGR burst in a sample consisting of the 27 Dec. 2004 giant flare from SGR 1806-20 and 190 lesser events from SGR 1806-20 and SGR 1900+14. The unprecedented sensitivity of the detectors allows us to set the most stringent limits on transient GW amplitudes published to date. We find upper limit estimates on the model-dependent isotropic GW emission energies (at a nominal distance of 10 kpc) between 3x10;{45} and 9x10;{52} erg depending on waveform type, detector antenna factors and noise characteristics at the time of the burst. These upper limits are within the theoretically predicted range of some SGR models.

Outcomes of elderly patients aged 80 and over with symptomatic, severe aortic stenosis: impact of patient's choice of refusing aortic valve replacement on survival

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) can be performed safely in selected elderly patients with aortic stenosis (AS). However, the survival benefits of AVR over conservative treatment have not been convincingly demonstrated in AS patients aged above 80.

AIM

To investigate the outcomes of patients aged 80 and over with symptomatic, severe AS and by analyzing the effects of patient's choice in either agreeing or refusing to undergo AVR, determine the survival benefits afforded by AVR.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

METHODS

Subjects aged 80 and over with severe symptomatic AS, diagnosed between 2001 and 2006 were segregated into three groups: subjects who underwent AVR (Group A); patients who were fit for AVR but declined surgery due to personal choice (Group B) and those who were not fit for surgery and were managed conservatively (Group C). Follow-up was conducted by out-patient attendances, review of medical records and telephone interviews. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 103 patients (86.0 +/- 4.2 years, 41% male) were identified and no patient was lost during follow-up. In Group A (n = 17), all 15 patients who underwent AVR were alive after 3.6 +/- 1.4 years follow-up and 2 died whilst awaiting AVR. Seventy-four percent of Group B (n = 24) and 76% of Group C (n = 62) died during follow-up. Group A had significantly better survival than B and C. (P < 0.01) Amongst patients fit for AVR with similar operative risks (Groups A and B), refusal to undergo surgery (hazard ratio 12.61, P = 0.001) was the only predictor of mortality in a multivariate model.

CONCLUSION

For elderly AS patients fit for surgery, the patient's decision to refuse AVR is associated with a >12-fold increase in mortality risk. These findings have significant implications for informed decision-making when managing the fit, elderly patient with AS.

Psychoses, ethnicity and socio-economic status

BACKGROUND

Consistent observation of raised rates of psychoses among Black and minority ethnic (BME) groups may possibly be explained by their lower socio-economic status.

AIMS

To test whether risk for psychoses remained elevated in BME populations compared with the White British, after adjustment for age, gender and current socio-economic status.

METHOD

Population-based study of first-episode DSM-IV psychotic disorders, in individuals aged 18-64 years, in East London over 2 years.

RESULTS

All BME groups had elevated rates of a psychotic disorder after adjustment for age, gender and socio-economic status. For schizophrenia, risk was elevated for people of Black Caribbean (incidence rate ratios (IRR)=3.1, 95% CI 2.1-4.5) and Black African (IRR=2.6, 95% CI 1.8-3.8) origin, and for Pakistani (IRR=3.1, 95% CI 1.2-8.1) and Bangladeshi (IRR=2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.7) women. Mixed White and Black Caribbean (IRR=7.7, 95% CI 3.2-18.8) and White Other (IRR=2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.8) groups had elevated rates of affective psychoses (and other non-affective psychoses).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated rates of psychoses in BME groups could not be explained by socio-economic status, even though current socio-economic status may have overestimated the effect of this confounder given potential misclassification as a result of downward social drift in the prodromal phase of psychosis. Our findings extended to all BME groups and psychotic disorders, though heterogeneity remains.

Identification of genes associated with regenerative success of Xenopus laevis hindlimbs

BACKGROUND

Epimorphic regeneration is the process by which complete regeneration of a complex structure such as a limb occurs through production of a proliferating blastema. This type of regeneration is rare among vertebrates but does occur in the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis, traditionally a model organism for the study of early development. Xenopus tadpoles can regenerate their tails, limb buds and the lens of the eye, although the ability of the latter two organs to regenerate diminishes with advancing developmental stage. Using a heat shock inducible transgene that remains silent unless activated, we have established a stable line of transgenic Xenopus (strain N1) in which the BMP inhibitor Noggin can be over-expressed at any time during development. Activation of this transgene blocks regeneration of the tail and limb of Xenopus tadpoles.

RESULTS

In the current study, we have taken advantage of the N1 transgenic line to directly compare morphology and gene expression in same stage regenerating vs. BMP signalling deficient non-regenerating hindlimb buds. The wound epithelium of N1 transgenic hindlimb buds, which forms over the cut surface of the limb bud after amputation, does not transition normally into the distal thickened apical epithelial cap. Instead, a basement membrane and dermis form, indicative of mature skin. Furthermore, the underlying mesenchyme remains rounded and does not expand to form a cone shaped blastema, a normal feature of successful regeneration. Using Affymetrix Gene Chip analysis, we have identified genes linked to regenerative success downstream of BMP signalling, including the BMP inhibitor Gremlin and the stress protein Hsp60 (no blastema in zebrafish). Gene Ontology analysis showed that genes involved in embryonic development and growth are significantly over-represented in regenerating early hindlimb buds and that successful regeneration in the Xenopus hindlimb correlates with the induction of stress response pathways.

CONCLUSION

N1 transgenic hindlimbs, which do not regenerate, do not form an apical epithelial cap or cone shaped blastema following amputation. Comparison of gene expression in stage matched N1 vs. wild type hindlimb buds has revealed several new targets for regeneration research.

Case report of multiple implant failure in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis

This report details a case of multiple implant failure (so-called 'cluster phenomenon') in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and considers some factors for implant failure including reduced bone density. It highlights the relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and osteoporosis although no direct link is made between these conditions and the implant failures in this case.

Using Support Vector Machine Regression to Model the Retention of Peptides in Immobilized Metal-affinity Chromatography

Retention of histidine-containing peptides in immobilized metal-affinity chromatography (IMAC) has been studied using several hundred model peptides. Retention in a Nickel column is primarily driven by the number of histidine residues; however, the amino acid composition of the peptide also plays a significant role. A regression model based on support vector machines was used to learn and subsequently predict the relationship between the amino acid composition and the retention time on a Nickel column. The model was predominantly governed by the count of the histidine residues, and the isoelectric point of the peptide.

A novel use of a unilateral hinged partial denture

This report describes a unilateral removable partial denture with a hinged arm with magnetic retention and a prosthetic flange component that was provided for a patient with localised periodontal tissue loss. While a unilateral partial denture is not generally advocated because of the risk of swallowing or aspiration, this case illustrates the effective use of such a design.

A model of technical variation of microarray signals

We describe a mathematical model of signal from single-channel direct hybridization microarray platforms. The model establishes a linear relationship between microarray signals and their standard deviations from a minimum set of assumptions. We use the model to precisely define important microarray quality characteristics: resolved fold change and dynamic range. The definitions lead to closed form expressions relating these characteristics to physical parameters of the microarray experiment in the case when both specific and nonspecific binding of target to probe are governed by the Langmuir hybridization isotherm. The predictions of the model are in close agreement to data obtained from spike-in experiments. Given the generality of the model, the introduced definitions of dynamic range and resolved concentration fold-change can be used to conduct cross-platform comparisons and to guide improvement of the microarray platform.

CRT improves the exercise capacity and functional reserve of the failing heart through enhancing the cardiac flow- and pressure-generating capacity

BACKGROUND

While information on how cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) affects cardiac performance at rest is readily available, the mechanisms whereby CRT alters cardiac function during maximal exercise are unclear.

AIMS

We examined the medium-term effects of CRT on cardiac and physical functional reserve of patients with severe heart failure (CHF) and prolonged QRS duration.

METHODS

Seventeen consecutive patients with severe CHF (NYHA III-IV) and widened QRS underwent maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing with non-invasive central haemodynamic measurements before and 6-8 weeks after CRT pacemaker implantation.

RESULTS

After CRT there were significant increases in exercise cardiac output by 19.3% (P=0.0048) from 9.5+/-3.4 l min(-1), peak mean arterial blood pressure by 14.1% (P=0.0001) from 91.3+/-13.6 mm Hg, and peak cardiac power output by 37.2% (P=0.0008) from 1.92+/-0.74 W. There were no significant changes in these variables at rest. Exercise duration (+42.3%, P=0.0002), NYHA functional class (P=0.0001) and SF-36 symptom score (P=0.0006) were also significantly improved. Powerful surrogate indicators of prognosis were also significantly improved with CRT: peak O(2) consumption (+20.9%, P=0.0007), VE/VCO(2) slope (-20.0%, P=0.005) and circulatory power (+42.0%, P=0.0012).

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of patients, post-implant CRT significantly improved the flow-, pressure- and power-generating capacity of the failing hearts. This may be causally related to the improvements observed in exercise capacity, functional class and symptom scores.

Temporal requirement for bone morphogenetic proteins in regeneration of the tail and limb of Xenopus tadpoles

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling is necessary for both the development of the tail bud and for tail regeneration in Xenopus laevis tadpoles. Using a stable transgenic line in which expression of the soluble BMP inhibitor noggin is under the control of the temperature inducible hsp70 promoter, we have investigated the timing of the requirement for BMP signalling during tail regeneration. If noggin expression is induced followed by partial amputation of the tail, then wound closure and the formation of the neural ampulla occur normally but outgrowth of the regeneration bud is inhibited. Furthermore, we show that BMP signalling is also necessary for limb bud regeneration, which occurs in Xenopus tadpoles prior to differentiation. When noggin expression is induced, limb bud regeneration fails at an early stage and a stump is formed. The situation appears similar to the tail, with formation of the limb bud blastema occurring but renewed outgrowth inhibited. The transcriptional repressor Msx1, a direct target of BMP signalling with known roles in vertebrate appendage regeneration, fails to be re-expressed in both tail and limb in the presence of noggin. DNA labelling studies show that proliferation in the notochord and spinal cord of the tail, and of the blastema in the limb bud, is significantly inhibited by noggin induction, suggesting that in the context of these regenerating appendages BMP is mainly required, directly or indirectly, as a mitogenic factor.

Upper limits on a stochastic background of gravitational waves

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory has performed a third science run with much improved sensitivities of all three interferometers. We present an analysis of approximately 200 hours of data acquired during this run, used to search for a stochastic background of gravitational radiation. We place upper bounds on the energy density stored as gravitational radiation for three different spectral power laws. For the flat spectrum, our limit of omega0 < 8.4 x 10(-4) in the 69-156 Hz band is approximately 10(5) times lower than the previous result in this frequency range.

Tooth wear as a result of pica

This paper reports a case of tooth surface loss as a result of the eating disorder pica. Background to the condition is discussed and the clinical findings and treatment of the patient outlined. The case illustrates a rare cause of wear which should be considered when patients present with an unusual pattern of tooth surface loss.