Evolution of eusociality in termites

A model is presented that demonstrates that asymmetries in relatedness such that individuals are more closely related to siblings than to offspring develop in diploid pedigrees under conditions of inbreeding. Given also certain incestuous conditions, the model predicts that eusocial-type helping behavior can be favored by natural selection. Three cases of the model are discussed along with implications for termite eusociality. Several aspects of termite biology, particularly the existence of replacement reproductives, are interpreted as evidence that termite eusociality may have arisen under the special conditions specified in the models.     

Practice-based research networks: nursing centers and communities working collaboratively to reduce health disparities

Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) can provide a range of opportunities for nurses working in primary care settings. This article reports on the early experiences of the Midwest Nursing Centers Consortium Research Network (MNCCRN), one of only two nursing PBRNs in the nation. Findings from the MNCCRN's first research study, Wellness for a Lifetime, indicate success with implementing research across geographically distant sites, and positive client outcomes related to improving nutrition and physical activity. Lessons learned in establishing a PBRN and implementing research studies in the real world are described as well as challenges for the future.     

Multispectral analysis of magnetic resonance images

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging systems produce spatial distribution estimates of proton density, relaxation time, and flow, in a two dimensional matrix form that is analogous to that of the image data obtained from multispectral imaging satellites. Advanced NASA satellite image processing offers sophisticated multispectral analysis of MR images. Spin echo and inversion recovery pulse sequence images were entered in a digital format compatible with satellite images and accurately registered pixel by pixel. Signatures of each tissue class were automatically determined using both supervised and unsupervised classification. Overall tissue classification was obtained in the form of a theme map. In MR images of the brain, for example, the classes included CSF, gray matter, white matter, subcutaneous fat, muscle, and bone. These methods provide an efficient means of identifying subtle relationships in a multi-image MR study.     

Registration using three-dimensional laser surface scanning for navigation in oral and craniomaxillofacial surgery

INTRODUCTION: Recent innovations in laser scanning technology provide a potentially useful tool for three-dimensional surface registration for image-guided surgery. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical reliability of this technique in oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures using image-guided navigation. METHODS: In an experimental step, a stable anthropomorphic skull model with prelabeled markers was scanned and registered with laser surface scanning (z-touch, BrainLAB) and marker- based algorithms. The registration protocol was then repeated 25-times. Root mean square error (RMSE) and target difference values were compared for their suitability for this application. Twelve patients with different indications for oral and maxillofacial surgery were planned for image-guided surgery using a passive infrared surgical navigation system (VectorVision, BrainLAB). Preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were carried out with newest 16-line multisclice CT-scanner (Siemens Somatom Sensation 16). The new markerless laser surface scanning technique was applied in all intraoperative patient registrations. Registration error was noted. The clinical application accuracy was determined for anatomical landmark localization deviation. RESULTS: In the experimental protocol a mean registration error (RMSE) or target difference of 1.3 (0.14) or 2.08 (0.49) mm for laser scanning and 0.38 (0.01) or 0.99 (0.15) mm for marker registration was found. The differences for RMSE and target localization were statistically significant (p < 0.005). Furthermore, a strong correlation between RMSE and target difference was found for laser scanning (r = 0.96) and marker registration (r = 0.95). During various clinical procedures involving oral and maxillofacial surgery, the overall error of the registration procedure determined as RMSE was 1.21 (0.34) mm. Intraoperatively, the mean clinical application accuracy was found to be 1.8 (0.5) mm. CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional laser surface scanning technique may be a interesting and useful approach to register the patient for image-guided procedures, particularly during oral and craniomaxillofacial surgery.     

Excretory urography with iohexol: evaluation in children

A multicenter clinical study was conducted using iohexol, a second-generation nonionic contrast medium, for excretory urography performed in 130 children. Doses of iohexol (300 mg iodine/ml) ranged between 150 and 660 mgI/kg (0.5 and 2.2 ml/kg). Iohexol was tolerated well, and no significant adverse reactions occurred. Sixty-five iohexol urograms were evaluated to determine the minimum dose for adequate visualization of the kidneys and collecting systems. A dose greater than 300 mgI/kg (1.0 ml/kg) always resulted in a urogram of diagnostic quality, while visualization was insufficient for diagnosis in 10% of studies done with doses of 150-300 mgI/kg (0.5-1.0 ml/kg). Another 65 iohexol urograms were compared in a blinded manner with a similar number of studies performed using iothalamate meglumine at comparable iodine concentration and dose. Visualization of calyces and pelvoinfundibular structures achieved with iohexol was rated better with statistical significance, but there was no difference in visualization of the renal parenchyma or ureters. Use of iohexol in excretory urography may be advantageous in children who are at greatest risk for an adverse reaction to contrast media or in those most likely to benefit from use of a low osmolality contrast agent.