bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Entourage’ effects ofN‐palmitoylethanolamide andN‐oleoylethanolamide on vasorelaxation to anandamide occur through TRPV1 receptors
Authors: Ho W‐SV , Barrett D A , Randall M D
Published: August 2008

Background and purpose:

The endocannabinoidN‐arachidonoylethanolamide (anandamide) is co‐synthesized with otherN‐acylethanolamides, namelyN‐palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) andN‐oleoylethanolamide (OEA), which have been shown to potentiate anandamide responses (so‐called ‘entourage effects’) in non‐vascular tissues. It remains unclear whether such interactions occur in the circulation.

Experimental approach:

In rat isolated small mesenteric arteries, the effects of PEA and OEA on relaxation to anandamide and tissue contents of theN‐acylethanolamides were examined under myographic conditions.

Key results:

Anandamide‐induced relaxation was potentiated by pretreatment with PEA (10 μM) or OEA (1 μM), or in combination. The potentiation by PEA and OEA was endothelium‐independent and abolished by treatment with capsaicin (10 μM), which desensitizes the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor system, or by the TRPV1 receptor antagonist,N‐(3‐methoxyphenyl)‐4‐chlorocinnamide (SB366791) (2 μM). It was also observed at molar ratios of anandamide and PEA (or OEA) similar to those found in mesenteric arteries. PEA and inhibition of anandamide hydrolysis by 3′‐carbamoyl‐biphenyl‐3‐yl‐cyclohexylcarbamate (URB597) (1 μM) additively potentiated anandamide responses. On the other hand, PEA and OEA also induced vasorelaxationper se(rank order of potency: anandamide>OEA>PEA), but relaxation to the threeN‐acylethanolamides displayed different sensitivity to treatment with capsaicin, SB366791 and URB597. For example, relaxations to anandamide and OEA, but not PEA, were attenuated by both capsaicin and SB366791.

Conclusion and implications:

This study shows that PEA and OEA potentiate relaxant responses to anandamide through TRPV1 receptors in rat small mesenteric arteries. The congeners also induce vasorelaxationper se, suggesting a function for theN‐acylethanolamides in vascular control.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2008)155, 837–846; doi:10.1038/bjp.2008.324; published online 11 August 2008
Mfsd2a encodes a novel major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein highly induced in brown adipose tissue during fasting and adaptive thermogenesis
Authors: Angers Martin , Uldry Marc , Kong Dong , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Jetten Anton M.
Published: August 2008

This study describes the identification of Mfsd2a (major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein 2a), a novel mammalian major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein, and an additional closely related protein, Mfsd2b. Most intron/exon junctions are conserved between the two genes, suggesting that they are derived from a common ancestor. Mfsd2a and Mfsd2b share a 12 transmembrane α-helical domain structure that bears greatest similarity to that of the bacterial Na+/melibiose symporters. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that Mfsd2a localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum. Mfsd2a is expressed in many tissues and is highly induced in liver and BAT (brown adipose tissue) during fasting. Mfsd2a displays an oscillatory expression profile in BAT and liver, consistent with a circadian rhythm. Although the basal level of Mfsd2a expression is relatively low in mouse BAT, it is greatly induced during cold-induced thermogenesis and after treatment with βAR (β-adrenergic receptor) agonists. This induction is totally abolished in β-less (βAR-deficient) mice. These findings indicate that Mfsd2a is greatly up-regulated in BAT during thermogenesis and that its induction is controlled by the βAR signalling pathway. The observed induction of Mfsd2a expression in cultured BAT cells by dibutyryl-cAMP is in agreement with this conclusion. The present study suggests that Mfsd2a plays a role in adaptive thermogenesis.
A single channel for nitrate uptake, nitrite export and nitrite uptake by Escherichia coli NarU and a role for NirC in nitrite export and uptake
Authors: Jia Wenjing , Tovell Nicholas , Clegg Stephanie , Trimmer Mark , Cole Jeffrey
Published: August 2008

Two related polytopic membrane proteins of the major facilitator family, NarK and NarU, catalyse nitrate uptake, nitrite export and nitrite uptake across the Escherichia coli cytoplasmic membrane by an unknown mechanism. A 12-helix model of NarU was constructed based upon six alkaline phosphatase and β-galactosidase fusions to NarK and the predicted hydropathy for the NarK family. Fifteen residues conserved in the NarK-NarU protein family were substituted by site-directed mutagenesis, including four residues that are essential for nitrate uptake by Aspergillus nidulans: arginines Arg87 and Arg303 in helices 2 and 8, and two glycines in a nitrate signature motif. Despite the wide range of substitutions studied, in no case did mutation result in loss of one biochemical function without simultaneous loss of all other functions. A NarU+ NirC+ strain grew more rapidly and accumulated nitrite more rapidly than the isogenic NarU+ NirC− strain. Only the NirC+ strain consumed nitrite rapidly during the later stages of growth. Under conditions in which the rate of nitrite reduction was limited by the rate of nitrite uptake, NirC+ strains reduced nitrite up to 10 times more rapidly than isogenic NarU+ strains, indicating that both nitrite efflux and nitrite uptake are largely dependent on NirC. Isotope tracer experiments with [15N]nitrate and [14N]nitrite revealed that [15N]nitrite accumulated in the extracellular medium even when there was a net rate of nitrite uptake and reduction. We propose that NarU functions as a single channel for nitrate uptake and nitrite expulsion, either as a nitrate–nitrite antiporter, or more likely as a nitrate/H+ or nitrite/H+ channel.
Protective effect of paraoxonase-2 against endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis is lost upon disturbance of calcium homoeostasis
Authors: Horke Sven , Witte Ines , Wilgenbus Petra , Altenhöfer Sebastian , Krüger Maximilian , Li Huige , Förstermann Ulrich
Published: August 2008

PON2 (paraoxonase-2) is a ubiquitously expressed antioxidative protein which is largely found in the ER (endoplasmic reticulum). Addressing the cytoprotective functions of PON2, we observed that PON2 overexpression provided significant resistance to ER-stress-induced caspase 3 activation when the ER stress was induced by interference with protein modification (by tunicamycin or dithiothreitol), but not when ER stress was induced by disturbance of Ca2+ homoeostasis (by thapsigargin or A23187). When analysing the underlying molecular events, we found an activation of the PON2 promoter in response to all tested ER-stress-inducing stimuli. However, only tunicamycin and dithiothreitol resulted in increased PON2 mRNA and protein levels. In contrast, when ER stress was caused by thapsigargin or A23187, we observed a Ca2+-dependent active degradation of PON2 mRNA, elicited by its 5′-untranslated region. In addition, thapsigargin and A23187 also induced PON2 protein degradation by a Ca2+-dependent calpain-mediated mechanism. Thus we provide evidence that independent mechanisms mediate the degradation of PON2 mRNA and protein after disturbance of Ca2+ homoeostasis. Furthermore, because Ca2+-disturbance induces ER stress, but abrogates the otherwise protective function of PON2 against ER-stress-induced apoptosis, we propose that the underlying cause of ER stress determines the efficacy of putative cellular defence mechanisms.
The splicing factor Prp17 interacts with the U2, U5 and U6 snRNPs and associates with the spliceosome pre- and post-catalysis
Authors: Sapra Aparna K. , Khandelia Piyush , Vijayraghavan Usha
Published: August 2008

Saccharomyces cerevisiae PRP17-null mutants are temperature-sensitive for growth. In vitro splicing with extracts lacking Prp17 are kinetically slow for the first step of splicing and are arrested for the second step at temperatures greater than 34 °C. In the present study we show that these stalled spliceosomes are compromised for an essential conformational switch that is triggered by Prp16 helicase. These results suggest a plausible mechanistic basis for the second-step arrest in prp17Δ extracts and support a role for Prp17 in conjunction with Prp16. To understand the association of Prp17 with spliceosomes we used a functional epitope-tagged protein in co-immunoprecipitation experiments. Examination of co-precipitated snRNAs (small nuclear RNAs) show that Prp17 interacts with U2, U5 and U6 snRNPs (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins) but it is not a core component of any one snRNP. Prp17 association with in-vitro-assembled spliceosome complexes on actin pre-mRNAs was also investigated. Although the U5 snRNP proteins Prp8 and Snu114 are found in early pre-spliceosomes that contain all five snRNPs, Prp17 is not detectable at this step; however, Prp17 is present in the subsequent pre-catalytic A1 complex, containing unspliced pre-mRNA, formed after the dissociation of U4 snRNP. Thus Prp17 joins the spliceosome prior to both catalytic reactions. Our results indicate continued interactions in catalytic spliceosomes that contain reaction intermediates and in post-splicing complexes containing the lariat intron. These Prp17–spliceosome association analyses provide a biochemical basis for the delayed first step in prp17Δ and explain the previously known multiple genetic interactions between Prp17, factors of the Prp19-complex [NTC (nineteen complex)], functional elements in U2 and U5 snRNAs and other second-step splicing factors.
Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel human variant of RIC-3, a putative chaperone of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Seredenina Tamara , Ferraro Teresa , Terstappen Georg C. , Caricasole Andrea , Roncarati Renza
Published: August 2008

Recent reports demonstrate that the RIC-3 (resistant to inhibitors of cholinesterase-3) protein is important for the maturation of nAChRs (nicotinic acetylcholine receptors). In the present study RIC-3e, a novel variant of RIC-3, is described. This variant contains a deletion of exons 4 and 5 of RIC-3, resulting in a protein product lacking a conserved coiled-coil domain. Like RIC-3, the new variant is predominantly, but not exclusively, expressed in the brain. The analysis of expression of variant RIC-3 mRNA and of α7-nAChR mRNA in a set of human tissues shows a similar profile. The RIC-3e protein is functionally active and enables surface expression of mature α7-nAChRs in cell lines not otherwise permissive for the expression of this receptor.
Organic light emitting bistable memory device with high on/off ratio and low driving voltage
Authors: Kim Sung Hyun , Yook Kyoung Soo , Lee Jun Yeob , Jang Jyongsik
Published: August 2008

Organic light emitting bistable memory devices (OLEBDs) with a dual function of organic light emitting diodes and organic memory devices were developed by using 0.5 nm thick MoO3 as an interlayer between hole injection layer and hole transport layer. The hole transport unit with MoO3 interlayer played a role of a memory unit as well as a hole transport unit. High on/off ratio over 1000 was obtained at a reading voltage of 1 V and driving voltage was lowered by MoO3. In addition, two different luminances were obtained at the same driving voltage by changing writing voltage of OLEBDs.
Optical polarization properties of interband transitions in strained group-III-nitride alloy films on GaN substrates with nonpolar orientation
Authors: Bhattacharyya Jayeeta , Ghosh Sandip , Grahn H. T.
Published: August 2008

The authors present results of a perturbation theory study of the combined effects of composition and anisotropic in-plane strain on the optical polarization properties of the three interband transitions in the vicinity of the fundamental energy gap of wurtzite group-III-nitride alloy films, pseudomorphically grown on GaN substrates with nonpolar orientation such as M-plane GaN(11¯00). Valence band mixing induced by the anisotropic in-plane strain is shown to have a dramatic influence on the optical polarization properties. The results indicate that an increased efficiency of light emission in the visible spectral range can be achieved with compressively strained InxGa1−xN active layers. While AlxGa1−xN layers under tensile strain will exhibit a very poor light emission efficiency in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range, efficient emission in the UV range can instead be achieved with InxAl1−xN films. These results also hold for alloy films on A-plane GaN(112¯0) substrates.
Spectral optimization of phosphor-conversion light-emitting diodes for ultimate color rendering
Authors: Žukauskas A. , Vaicekauskas R. , Ivanauskas F. , Vaitkevičius H. , Shur M. S.
Published: August 2008

We apply an optimization scheme based on rendering of all colors of the enhanced Munsell palette to phosphor-conversion (PC) light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This approach yields combinations of peak wavelengths and bandwidths for white PC LEDs with partial and complete conversion that enable lighting with better quality than that obtained using designs based on the standard color-rendering assessment procedure.
Pre-atomic layer deposition surface cleaning and chemical passivation of (100) In0.2Ga0.8As and deposition of ultrathin Al2O3 gate insulators
Authors: Shin Byungha , Choi Donghun , Harris James S. , McIntyre Paul C.
Published: August 2008

We have developed and tested the efficacy of a method for pre-atomic layer deposition (ALD) surface preparation that removes native oxides from the (100) In0.2Ga0.8As surface and provides a clean starting surface for ALD of ultrathin Al2O3 layers. Successive wet etching by aqueous HCl and NH4(OH) solutions and in situ pre-ALD thermal desorption of residual elemental As were performed. Photoelectron spectra obtained after ALD of Al2O3 on In0.2Ga0.8As prepared by this method revealed that the interface was free of In, Ga, and As oxides. The resultant metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitors with Pt electrodes exhibited capacitance-derived equivalent oxide thicknesses as small as 1.8nm.
Organic thin-film transistors with color filtering functional gate insulators
Authors: Chuang Chiao-Shun , Cheng Jung-An , Huang Yu-Jen , Chang Hsiao-Fen , Chen Fang-Chung , Shieh Han-Ping D.
Published: August 2008

We developed color filtering functional organic thin-film transistors exhibiting both high field-effect mobilities and color-filtering ability. The conventional colorant inks were utilized as the materials for the color filter/dielectric multifunction layers. In order to improve the electrical performance, a high dielectric polymeric insulator, poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate), was introduced to modify the surface of the dielectric layer. Further, the Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage chromaticity coordinates were (0.64, 0.34), (0.36, 0.54), and (0.14, 0.15) for red, green, and blue devices, respectively, covering 49.2% National Television Systems Committee standard. This work represents one potential example for multifunctional organic electronics.
Stokes and anti-Stokes resonant Raman scatterings from biased GaN/AlN heterostructure
Authors: Xu Guibao , Tripathy Suvranta K. , Mu Xiaodong , Ding Yujie J. , Wang Kejia , Cao Yu , Jena Debdeep , Khurgin Jacob B.
Published: August 2008

An electric field present in a GaN/AlN heterostructure can bring both the first-order and second-order Raman scattering processes into strong resonances. The resonant Stokes and anti-Stokes Raman scatterings result in the increase and decrease in nonequilibrium longitudinal-optical phonon temperatures, respectively. Moreover, the phonon temperature measured from the Raman scattering is increased with an applied electric field at a much higher rate than the lattice temperature due to the presence of field-induced nonequilibrium longitudinal-optical phonons.
Anomalous positive-bias temperature instability of high-κ/metal gate devices with Dy2O3 capping
Authors: O’Connor Robert , Chang Vincent S. , Pantisano Luigi , Ragnarsson Lars-Åke , Aoulaiche Marc , O’Sullivan Barry , Groeseneken Guido
Published: August 2008

Substantial Vt modulation of 150–220 mV in n-type metal-oxide-semiconductor devices without mobility degradation is possible by inserting a 1 nm Dy2O3 cap between the HfSiON and TaN metal gate. However, in the Dy2O3-capped devices we observe an anomalous positive-bias temperature instability behavior where the threshold voltage (Vt) decreases substantially during the electrical stress and eventually saturates. The stress polarity effect, the strong temperature dependence, full recovery, and the response to hot carriers suggest that two competing physical mechanisms are responsible for the Vt behavior—diffusion of preexisting positively charged species dominating at high temperature and electron trapping dominating at low temperature. The charged species are likely located in the mixed high-κ dielectric and associated with the interaction between the host dielectric, cap, and metal gate.
Design and simulation of planar electro-optic switches in ferroelectrics
Authors: Krishnamurthi Mahesh , Tian Lili , Gopalan Venkatraman
Published: August 2008

Conceptual design and numerical simulation of two polarization dependent planar optical switches based on the electro-optic effect in ferroelectrics operating at 1.55 μm wavelength are presented. The first design is a 3×3 optical switch based entirely on electro-optic beam steering (prism) elements and ion-exchanged lenses for collimation. The second design is a 1×N optical switch based on a combination of electro-optic beam steering and electro-optic focusing (lens) elements. The scalability of this device has been improved by compensating the in-plane divergence of the laser. Analytical expressions for the dependence of scalability are presented.
Transmission measurement of the photonic band gap of GaN photonic crystal slabs
Authors: Caro J. , Roeling E. M. , Rong B. , Nguyen Hoang M. , van der Drift E. W. J. M. , Rogge S. , Karouta F. , van der Heijden R. W. , Salemink H. W. M.
Published: August 2008

A high-contrast-ratio (30 dB) photonic band gap in the near-infrared transmission of hole-type GaN two-dimensional photonic crystals (PhCs) is reported. These crystals are deeply etched in a 650 nm thick GaN layer grown on sapphire. A comparison of the measured spectrum with finite difference time domain simulations gives quantitative agreement for the dielectric band and qualitative agreement for the air band. The particular behavior of the air band arises from the relatively low index contrast between the GaN layer and the sapphire substrate. Our results call for extension of the operation of GaN PhCs to the visible range.
Photoconductivity in defective carbon nanotube sheets under ultraviolet–visible–near infrared radiation
Authors: Passacantando M. , Bussolotti F. , Grossi V. , Santucci S. , Ambrosio A. , Ambrosio M. , Ambrosone G. , Carillo V. , Coscia U. , Maddalena P. , Perillo E. , Raulo A.
Published: August 2008

Multiwalled carbon nanotube sheets of relatively large area have been grown on a sapphire substrate by chemical vapor deposition at the substrate temperature of 500 and 750°C. The photoconductivity measurements, performed under white light and monochromatic radiation in the ultraviolet–visible–near infrared region, show that the highly defective sample grown at 500°C has a higher photosensitivity, thus revealing the crucial role of structural defects in determining the overall photoresponse of the nanotube’s sheets. The spectral photoresponse of these nanostructured films increases with the increase in photon energy, and is strongly correlated to the absorbance. The photoconductivity properties of these materials are favorable in potential development of large area light sensors as well as optoelectronic nanodevices.
Ultrafast spin noise spectroscopy
Authors: Starosielec Sebastian , Hägele Daniel
Published: August 2008

We propose an extension of optical spin noise spectroscopy that expands the so far accessible frequency range from a few gigahertz to several terahertz employing pairs of ultrafast femtosecond-laser pulses. The method is suitable for probing noise signals with very high bandwidths and signals centered at zero frequency. A time-resolved version of noise spectroscopy for detecting noise after a pump event follows naturally from the scheme. The analytical description of ultrafast spin noise spectroscopy along with numerical simulations proves the method a powerful spectroscopic tool.
Metal nanocrystals synthesized with a micellar template based on a diblock copolymer for three-dimensional nonvolatile memory
Authors: Kim Chung-Jin , Ryu Seong-Wan , Choi Yang-Kyu , Chang Jae-Joon , Bae Su Hak , Sohn Byeong-Hyeok
Published: August 2008

Metal nanocrystals synthesized with a micellar template were applied for three-dimensional vertical floating gate memory devices. Using a highly ordered micellar template formed with a diblock copolymer, we produced cobalt (Co) nanocrystals with a uniform size and spatial distribution on a planar surface and a sidewall surface. The hydrogen annealing effects were investigated in terms of memory performance. The fabricated vertical floating gate memory with Co nanocrystals annealed with hydrogen showed a memory window with a voltage greater than 1 V and a retention time characteristic that preserves more than 60% of the initial charge after ten years.
Current-voltage characteristics and transport mechanism of solar cells based on ZnO nanorods/In2S3∕CuSCN
Authors: Dittrich T. , Kieven D. , Rusu M. , Belaidi A. , Tornow J. , Schwarzburg K. , Lux-Steiner M.
Published: August 2008

Temperature dependent current-voltage characteristics in the dark and under illumination have been analyzed on up to 3.2% efficient solar cells with extremely thin absorber based on ZnO nanorods/In2S3∕CuSCN structures. The diode ideality factor and the open circuit voltage are strongly influenced on a thermal activation process. Significant enhancement of the devices efficiency by annealing at moderate temperatures has been demonstrated. After this annealing, the activation energy of the saturation current increased from 1.00to1.46eV (in the dark). Transport mechanisms at the In2S3∕CuSCN interface region are discussed.
Charge-transfer states in conjugated polymer/fullerene blends: Below-gap weakly bound excitons for polymer photovoltaics
Authors: Hallermann Markus , Haneder Stephan , Da Como Enrico
Published: August 2008

We report on the observation of a charge-transfer state forming at the molecular interface between a conjugated polymer and a fullerene based electron acceptor. Electron hole recombination in this state results in a luminescent transition at 840nm, energetically separated from the polymer emission. This transition can be directly photoexcited by tuning the excitation energy below the conjugated polymer bandgap, demonstrating that the charge-transfer state originates from a ground-state interaction. By electric field induced quenching of the photoluminescence, we determine a binding energy of 130meV for excitons in the charge-transfer state.
Microwave absorption properties of conducting polymer composite with barium ferrite nanoparticles in 12.4–18GHz
Authors: Ohlan Anil , Singh Kuldeep , Chandra Amita , Dhawan S. K.
Published: August 2008

Conducting polymer nanocomposites of polyphenyl amine with barium ferrite nanoparticles (50–70nm) have been synthesized via emulsion polymerization. The complex permittivity, permeability, and microwave absorption properties of the composite were studied in the 12.4–18GHz (Ku band) frequency range. The composite has shown high shielding effectiveness due to absorption (SEA) of 28.9dB (∼99.9%), which strongly depends on dielectric loss, magnetic permeability, and volume fraction of barium ferrite nanoparticles. The high value of SEA suggests that these composites can be used as a promising radar absorbing materials.
Element- and site-specific oxidation state and cation distribution in manganese ferrite films by diffraction anomalous fine structure
Authors: Yang Aria , Chen Zhaohui , Geiler Anton L. , Zuo Xu , Haskel Daniel , Kravtsov E. , Vittoria C. , Harris V. G.
Published: August 2008

Epitaxial manganese ferrite thin films were studied by x-ray diffraction anomalous fine structure to obtain element-specific and site-specific information on site occupancy, local structure, and valency. These properties were introduced to molecular field theory to reproduce thermomagnetization curves and determine superexchange energy, Néel temperature, and spin canting angle.
Coercivity mechanism of hydrogenation disproportionation desorption recombination processed Nd–Fe–B based magnets
Authors: Li W. F. , Ohkubo T. , Hono K. , Nishiuchi T. , Hirosawa S.
Published: August 2008

We have investigated the microstructure change of hydrogenation disproportionation desorption recombination processed Nd12.5Fe73Co8B6.5 powders during the desorption recombination (DR) stage to understand the mechanism of the coercivity development in the DR process. A uniform Nd-enriched layer was found to form along the grain boundaries when coercivity starts to increase in the DR process, which should be the main reason for the coercivity development. However, the composition of this grain boundary layer was found to contain a high concentration of ferromagnetic elements.
Dispersion and loss of ferroelectric Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films up to 110 GHz
Authors: Houzet Gregory , Burgnies Ludovic , Velu Gabriel , Carru Jean-Claude , Lippens Didier
Published: August 2008

The frequency dependence of the complex permittivity (ε∗=ε′-jε″) of Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 0.3-μm-thick film is measured up to 110 GHz by using interdigitated capacitors and coplanar waveguides. It is shown that the temperature dependence (from 77 to 373 K) of microwave losses, measured at 20 GHz, is described by a tan(δ)-(ε′)3/2 law. This result indicates distributed electromagnetic wave interactions with the local soft-phonon modes. This conclusion is further confirmed by the satisfactorily fit of the frequency dependence of the complex permittivity by a Cole–Cole function with an exponent β=0.6 and a characteristic time τ=0.21 ps.
Large pyroelectric effect in undoped epitaxial Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 thin films on SrTiO3 substrates
Authors: Xiao Bo , Avrutin Vitaliy , Liu Huiyong , Özgür Ümit , Morkoç Hadis , Lu Changzhi
Published: August 2008

We have studied pyroelectric and ferroelectric properties of Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 thin films grown epitaxially on SrTiO3(001) substrates by rf magnetron sputtering. The pyroelectric coefficient was measured in the temperature range from 280 to 370 K using the Byer–Roundy method. Values as high as 48 nC/cm2 K have been obtained at 300 K. The PZT thin films exhibited a remanent polarization of 45–58 μC/cm2. The improved pyroelectric coefficient was attributed to a high crystalline quality of the films, as revealed by x-ray diffraction that showed only (001)-oriented perovskite PZT phase and a ω-rocking curve full width at half maximum value as low as 4.2 arc min for 300 nm thick films.
Robotic retroperitoneal lower para‐aortic lymphadenectomy in cervical carcinoma: First report on the technique used in 5 patients
Authors: VERGOTE IGNACE , POUSEELE BRAM , VAN GORP TOON , VAN ACKER BERNARD , LEUNEN KARIN , CADRON ISABELLE , NEVEN PATRICK , AMANT FREDERIC
Published: August 2008

Objective. Retroperitoneal para‐aortic laparoscopic lymphadenectomy is a technically challenging operation. The robotic Da Vinci system might be valuable in this operation due to a steady three‐dimensional visualization, instrumentation with articulating tips, and an adaptive downscaling of the surgeons movements (without tremor). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on robotic retroperitoneal para‐aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with gynecologic cancer.Method and results. We report on the technique and operative results of the robotic retroperitoneal lower para‐aortic lymphadenectomy using the Da Vinci Surgical System. Five patients with cervical carcinoma stage IIb‐IIb were included. Technically the procedure was easier to perform than with the classical retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach. However using the Da Vinci Surgical System it is important to tilt the patient slightly to the left to avoid collision between the left arm of the patient and the robotic arms, and to place the endoscopic robotic arm between the 2 arms used for dissection. Finally, we experienced that using a 30° scope is advantageous for the dissection of the paracaval nodes. None of the patients had evidence of para‐aortic metastases on preoperatively staging, including Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography (PET‐CT). One of the patients had positive para‐aortic lymph nodes.Conclusion. Here we report on the surgical technique used in our first 5 patients undergoing retroperitoneal para‐aortic lymphadenectomy using the robotic Da Vinci system. It is important to adapt the surgical technique using the Da Vinci Surgical System compared with the classical laparoscopic technique.
Do pregnant women still smoke? A study of smoking patterns among 261,029 primiparous women in Denmark 1997–2005
Authors: EGEBJERG JENSEN KIRSTEN , JENSEN ALLAN , NØHR BUGGE , KRÜGER KJÆR SUSANNE
Published: August 2008

Objective. Describe smoking patterns in pregnancy in Denmark from 1997 to 2005 and make comparisons with the other Nordic countries, and further to analyze the influence of socio‐demographic factors on smoking patterns in pregnancy. Design. Register‐based study. Setting. Denmark. Population. All primiparous women giving birth in Denmark (n = 261,029) in the period 1997–2005. Methods. Information about deliveries, smoking status and characteristics of the women were retrieved from the Danish National Birth Registry. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the importance of different factors in relation to the risk of smoking in pregnancy. Main outcome measures. Odds Ratios and associated 99% confidence intervals were used to assess the risk of smoking in pregnancy. Results. The prevalence of women who smoked at some point in pregnancy declined significantly from 22% in 1997 to 16% in 2005. However, among women younger than 20 years at delivery, the pregnancy‐related smoking prevalence increased from 37 to 43%. Time trends in smoking patterns were not confounded by socio‐demographic factors. Women living in rural areas and women who did not have a partner had the highest risk of smoking in pregnancy. Conclusions. In this nationwide survey, a significant decline in the prevalence of primiparous women who smoked during pregnancy was observed from 1997 to 2005. Despite of this, pregnancy‐related smoking prevalence in Denmark is still higher than in the other Nordic countries. Furthermore, the proportion of pregnant smokers was highest among young women, and future smoking cessation programs should bring this subgroup of women into focus.
Management of postpartum hemorrhage by uterine balloon tamponade: Prospective evaluation of effectiveness
Authors: DOUMOUCHTSIS STERGIOS K. , PAPAGEORGHIOU ARIS T. , VERNIER CHIARA , ARULKUMARAN SABARATNAM
Published: August 2008

Objective. To evaluate uterine balloon tamponade in the management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Method and study design. Prospective audit. Setting. St George's Hospital, London. Population. Twenty‐seven women with intractable PPH managed by uterine balloon tamponade using a Sengstaken‐Blakemore Oesophageal Catheter (SBOC) when medical management was not effective, and prior to surgical intervention. Main outcome measures. Success rate of the SBOC in arresting hemorrhage. The need for additional measures, use of anesthesia and complication rates is reported. Results. During the study period there were 27 women who had placement of the catheter. In 22 cases (81%) hemostasis was achieved, while in five cases (19%) the SBOC failed in arresting hemorrhage. Of the five failures, hysterectomy was required in four cases and in the remaining case the failure was associated with expulsion of the balloon, but hemostasis was achieved with further conservative measures. Among the failed cases there was one maternal death due to amniotic fluid embolism with cardiac arrest and PPH secondary to coagulopathy. In cases where the balloon was successful it was removed around 24 hours later. In these cases no further bleeding was observed, and no complications occurred from the procedure. Conclusions. Placement of a SBOC successfully treats atonic PPH refractory to medical management in around 80% of cases. It is simple, inexpensive and in those with successful placement no surgical morbidity was observed. The potential for it to be used by inexperienced operators in areas with limited resources makes it a useful adjunct in management of PPH.
Sagittal suture overlap in cephalopelvic disproportion: Blinded and non‐participant assessment
Authors: BUCHMANN ECKHART J. , LIBHABER ELENA
Published: August 2008

Objective. To determine the role of assessment of overlap of fetal skull bones (molding) in intrapartum prediction of cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD). Design. Prospective cross‐sectional study. Setting. South African high‐risk obstetric unit that receives referrals from other facilities. Population. Women of at least 37 weeks’ gestation in the active phase of labor, with singleton vertex presentations and live fetuses, and without previous cesarean sections. Method. The researcher was blinded to parity and previous clinical information on the women, and not involved in their obstetric care. The researcher performed clinical assessments, including estimation of level of head, cervical dilatation, head flexion, position, overlap of fetal skull bones, caput succedaneum and asynclitism. A single assessment was done on each woman. Main outcome measure. CPD, defined as cesarean section for poor progress in labor. Results. The author examined 504 women, and CPD occurred in 113 (22.4%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, sagittal suture overlap was independently associated with CPD. Other factors associated were maternal height, duration of labor, birth weight, and the interaction between caput succedaneum and cervical dilatation at the time of examination. Lambdoid suture overlap was not significantly associated with CPD, and could be determined in only 66.5% of examinations because of frequent head deflexion. Conclusion. Assessment of sagittal suture overlap, but not lambdoid suture overlap, is useful for prediction of CPD. Knowledge of sagittal suture overlap may assist in decisions on clinical management where there is poor progress in a trial of labor.
Diagnosis and prediction of parental origin of triploidies by fetal nuchal translucency and maternal serum free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A at 11–14 weeks of gestation
Authors: BARKEN SIDSEL S. , SKIBSTED LILLIAN , JENSEN LISA N. , SPERLING LENE , ZINGENBERG HELLE , BRØNDUM‐NIELSEN KAREN
Published: August 2008

The study objective was to determine the parental origin of triploidy in relation to findings from early risk assessment in a combined screening program between 2004 and the end of 2006. Triploidy was diagnosed in six chorion villus samples and two samples from missed abortions. After informed consent, quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed on the five cases where we received blood from both parents and tissue from fetuses. In four cases the origin of the triploidy was paternal and in one maternal, in accordance with previous findings in type I and type II triploidies. Finding triploidy is possible by risk assessment (ultrasound and double test), and thereby women may have the opportunity for early termination of pregnancy.
Maternal fatalities, fetal and neonatal deaths related to motor vehicle crashes during pregnancy: A national population‐based study
Authors: KVARNSTRAND LAURA , MILSOM IAN , LEKANDER THOMAS , DRUID HENRIK , JACOBSSON BO
Published: August 2008

Objectives. Firstly, determine the mortality rate for: pregnant women; fetuses and neonates, due to motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) during pregnancy; and secondly, the rate of major injuries among pregnant women and the rate of involvement of pregnant women in crashes. Design. A national population‐based, retrospective descriptive study. Setting. Sweden, 1991–2001. Population. All pregnant and non‐pregnant women age 15–44. Methods. Linkage of national traffic, medical and autopsy registers. Main outcome measures. Maternal death or injury and corresponding fetal death. Results. MVCs during pregnancy caused 1.4 maternal fatalities per 100,000 pregnancies and a fetus/neonate mortality rate of least 3.7 per 100,000 pregnancies. The incidence of maternal major injury was 23/100,000 pregnancies and crash involvement was 207/100,000 pregnancies. Conclusions. MVCs during pregnancy were a significant cause of maternal fatalities, fetal and neonatal deaths, responsible for almost 1/3 of all maternal deaths and fatalities, and caused nearly three times more fetal plus neonatal deaths than maternal fatalities.
Prepregnancy weight status and the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome
Authors: HAUGER MARIT S. , GIBBONS LUZ , VIK TORSTEIN , BELIZÁN JOSÉ M.
Published: August 2008

Objective. To examine the association between maternal pre‐pregnancy weight status and the risk of stillbirth, pre‐eclampsia and preterm delivery. Design. Hospital‐based cohort study using prospectively recorded data. Setting. Ten public hospitals in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Population. 46,964 pregnant women who had a delivery during 2003–2006. Methods. Prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) was used to categorize women in four weight categories from underweight to obese. The reference group were women with BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Crude and adjusted odds ratios were calculated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Main Outcome. Preterm birth, pre‐eclampsia and stillbirth. Results. The risk of preterm delivery decreased with increasing BMI, with the highest risk among underweight women (OR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.26–1.67), and the lowest risk among the overweight. The risk of pre‐eclampsia was highest among overweight (OR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.30–1.86) and obese women (OR: 3.10; 95%CI: 2.54–3.78). Obese or overweight women did not have an increased risk of stillbirth in this study. Conclusions. Overweight and obese women have an increased risk for pre‐eclampsia, while underweight women have an increased risk for preterm delivery. There is a high prevalence of overweight women in the obstetric population in Buenos Aires.
Rapid prenatal diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy by denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography system
Authors: SHAW SHENG‐WEN , SHAW SHENG‐WEN , CHENG PO‐JEN , SHAW SHENG‐WEN , CHENG PO‐JEN , CHANG SHUENN‐DHY , LIN YU‐TING , HUNG CHIA‐CHENG , CHEN CHIH‐PING , SU YI‐NING
Published: August 2008

Objective. Use of Denaturing High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography (DHPLC) in prenatal diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Methods. Thirty‐three members of 7 families participated in carrier test and disease detection of SMA. Prenatal genetic diagnosis was performed if both parents were carriers or any family members had SMA. DNA extracted from blood, chorionic villi and amniotic fluid was amplified and used for DHPLC. Results. Twenty SMA carriers, seven SMA affected cases, and six normal individuals were identified. SMA status was demonstrated by genotyping and total copy number determinations of SMN1 and SMN2. Families 1–3 were classified as group one (SMA affecting previously born child). Group two, comprising families 4 and 5, had lost a child due to an unknown muscular disease. Group three (SMA‐affected parent) comprised families 6 and 7; carrier testing was done. DHPLC prenatal genetic diagnosis was made in seven pregnancies, one in each family (affected, n = 2; carrier, n = 3; normal, n = 2). Pregnancy was terminated for the two affected fetuses. The others were delivered uneventfully and SMA free. Conclusion. DHPLC prenatal diagnosis of SMA and determination of SMA status in adults is possible, and SMN1 and SMN2 copy numbers can be determined.
Factors associated with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction six years after primary operation of genital prolapse
Authors: CRAFOORD KRISTINA , SYDSJÖ ADAM , JOHANSSON THOMAS , BRYNHILDSEN JAN , KJØLHEDE PREBEN
Published: August 2008

Objective. To determine prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) symptoms in women six years after primary pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery and analyze predictive factors for these symptoms. Design. Cross‐sectional observational study. Setting. Three Swedish hospitals. Sample. Women who underwent primary POP surgery in 1993 and had no subsequent POP surgery during the following six years. Methods. Clinical data from patient records and a postal questionnaire concerning symptoms of PFD completed in 1999. Main outcome measures. Prevalence of PFD symptoms, predictive factors. Results. Urinary incontinence episodes ≥weekly were reported by 41%, feeling of vaginal bulging by 18% and solid stool incontinence by 15%. Thirty nine percent were sexually active; 15% refrained completely from sexual activity because of own discomfort or pain and 46% had no sexual activity due to lack of or sick partner. Discomfort or pain during sexual activity was experienced by 42%. Previous incontinence surgery and urinary incontinence prior to POP surgery were predictive factors for urinary incontinence. Anterior repair was protective for the postoperative symptoms of incomplete bladder and bowel emptying and vaginal bulging. Posterior repair was a risk factor for incomplete bowel emptying and solid stool incontinence. The association between posterior repair and discomfort or pain during sexual activity was not significant. Conclusion. The prevalence of PFD symptoms six years after primary POP surgery seemed high. The extent of POP surgery was predictive for postoperative symptoms of urinary and bowel dysfunction but not for discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
Improved accuracy of postpartum blood loss estimation as assessed by simulation
Authors: MASLOVITZ SHARON , BARKAI GAD , LESSING JOSEPH B. , ZIV AMITAI , MANY ARIEL
Published: August 2008

Objective. Caregivers underestimate the amount of blood loss, but this almost five decades‐old assumption has not been validated. We aimed at assessing the accuracy of estimated blood loss by obstetrical teams during a simulated Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) scenario. Study design. a prospective study conducted as part of the simulation‐based training course, using sophisticated mannequin simulators adapted for obstetrical training by specially designed devices. Setting. Part of the simulation‐based training course. Population. Obstetrical teams consisted of physicians and obstetrical nurses. Methods. Each of the participating obstetrical teams assessed blood loss during PPH scenarios. Their estimates were compared to the actual predefined 3.5‐liter blood loss. An intervention group underwent a similar course in which they recorded their estimations after 1, 2 and 3.5 liters were lost. Outcome measures. Blood loss estimates after completion of the scenario in both groups. Results. Fifty obstetrical teams took part in the study. Eight comprised the interventional group. The average estimated blood loss was 1,780 ml (49% underestimation) for non‐interventional teams. The interventional groups estimated blood loss to be 2,400 ml (32% underestimation). The main method of estimating blood loss was ‘gut feeling’, followed by verbalized guesses of team members and assessments of the ‘patient's’ hemodynamic status. Conclusions. Accuracy of blood loss estimations by a simulation‐based PPH scenario was 50–60%. Measurements at predetermined intervals significantly improved accuracy of these estimations. Our study suggests that implementation of periodic estimations of blood loss in the management of PPH might improve clinical judgment.
Two ways of estimating the euro value of the illicit market for cannabis in France
Authors: LEGLEYE STEPHANE , LAKHDAR CHRISTIAN BEN , SPILKA STANISLAS
Published: August 2008

Introduction. The most recent health surveys in general population are used in order to estimate the annual market size for cannabis in France in 2005. Methods. Two methods for arriving at an estimate are proposed: the first based on reported consumption, the other on reported expenditure on cannabis. Results. The annual sales figure for cannabis in France is between746 and 832 million euros. Men's expenditure accounts for between 80 and 85% of total expenditure and those aged between 15 and 24 years account for the greatest part of the size of the cannabis market, between 57 and 60%, depending upon the method. Conclusions. According to these estimates, consumers' average annual expenditure on cannabis is around €202 in France, compared to estimates obtained for New Zealand and Holland (€124) and the United States (€362).
Are we becoming more alike? Comparison of substance use in Australia and the United States as seen in the 1995, 1998, 2001 and 2004 national household surveys
Authors: MAXWELL JANE CARLISLE
Published: August 2008

Introduction. This paper reports the results of the 1995, 1998, 2001 and 2004 Australian and US household surveys, with emphasis on changes since 2001. Design and Methods. The US survey data were recalculated to match age groups in the Australian data. Statistically significant changes are reported. Differences in prevalence of use by gender within age group were tested for significance. Results. The past‐year use of ‘any illicit drug’, cannabis, cocaine, tranquillisers and injecting drugs decreased between 2001 and 2004 in Australia, but remained stable for all these drugs except ecstasy between 2002 and 2004 in the United States. The use of hallucinogens decreased in both countries. Alcohol and use of many illicit drugs by teenage girls in both countries increased to rates similar to or higher than boys, and teens in both countries reported binge and heavy drinking in the past month. Australians in their 20s had the highest rates of use, but in the United States, past‐year use of many drugs was highest among teenagers. Discussion. More treatment services are needed, particularly for people dependent upon non‐opiate drugs. The changes in acceptability of use of different drugs and their perceived availability are related to changes in prevalence rates. Even with the similarities in levels of use, there are differences in patterns of use and preferences for certain drugs in each country, and geographic proximity to drug sources is a factor.
Estimating the prevalence of individuals likely to use publicly funded alcohol treatment services: an indirect estimation technique
Authors: CLEMENS SUSAN L. , RITTER ALISON
Published: August 2008

Introduction and Aims. Determining prevalence estimates of illicit or stigmatised behaviours is problematic, due to under‐reporting and difficulties in sampling adequately populations most at risk of engaging in such behaviours. This has led to the development of indirect prevalence estimation techniques such as multiplier methods, capture–recapture, multivariate indicator methods and back‐calculation. This study reports on the development of a treatment multiplier to estimate the number of clients estimated to seek treatment through publicly funded services annually. Design and Methods. This study uses a multiplier method of indirect prevalence estimation, using the number of clients receiving publicly funded treatment as the benchmark population. Data for the multiplier were collected through a drug and alcohol telephone information and referral helpline. Participants are callers seeking assistance for their own alcohol use. Results. Results indicate that up to 40 200 individuals (95% confidence interval: 34 900, 47 000) may seek treatment at these agencies annually. This estimate represents a 300% increase in current publicly funded treatment provision. Discussion and Conclusion. This method was cost‐effective and resulted in estimates similar to those obtained through a population‐based survey. This method can be adapted easily to areas with a complete registry of clients receiving publicly funded alcohol or drug treatment services and a helpline service with adequate geographic coverage.