bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperferritinemia in reactive hemophagocytic syndrome report of four adult cases
Authors: Koduri Prasad Rao , Carandang Godofredo , Demarais Patricia , Patel Ashok R.
Published: February 2007

Four patients were diagnosed with reactive hemophagocytic syndrome (RHPS) during a 7 month period. Of these, three patients were diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome complicated by disseminated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, incompletely treated Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and disseminated histoplasmosis respectively. The fourth patient had non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma of the mature T‐cell phenotype. Fever, bicytopenia, or pancytopenia, elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level (>1,000 IU/L), and hemophagocytic histiocytosis in smears of bone marrow aspirate were present in all patients. Hyperferritinemia (>10,000 ng/ml) was present in all (range 34,976 to 425,984 ng/mL) and showed a decrease in the two patients who responded to therapy. Hyperferritinemia (>10,000 ng/ml) and elevated serum LDH (>1,000 IU/L) are important clues to the diagnosis of RHPS in the febrile cytopenic patient with immunodeficiency. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical correlates of subnormal vitamin B12 levels in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Paltiel Ora , Falutz Julian , Veilleux Martin , Rosenblatt David S. , Gordon Kathleen
Published: February 2007

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and describe the clinical correlates of subnormal cobalamin levels in subjects infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and to assess its relationship to virus‐mediated immunosuppression and/or anti‐viral therapy.

Setting: Outpatient referral clinic in tertiary care hospital.

Patient population: 200 HIV infected individuals.

Study design: Descriptive cross sectional survey, with prospective follow‐up in a subgroup of patients before and after initiation of zidovudine therap.

Measures: Routine complete blood count, serum B12 assay, CD4 counts. Serum homocysteine levels, and Schilling tests were performed on subgroups of study subjects.

Results: Subnormal serum B12 levels were found in 61 subjects (30.5%). B12 deficient subjects were more likely to be taking zidovudine. (P = .007). Serum homocysteine levels were significantly higher in patients with subnormal cobalamin levels but were unrelated to CD4 counts or zidovudine use, and were rarely outside of the normal range. Malabsorption of vitamin B12 as evidenced by abnormal Schilling tests was more likely among patients with more advanced HIV disease, or gastrointestinal symptoms but was not necessarily associated with low B12 levels.

Conclusions: Decreased cobalamin levels are found frequently in HIV disease, especially among those treated with zidovudine. Evidence of B12 malabsorption is found among those with more advanced disease and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Antibody to annexin V has anti‐phospholipid and lupus anticoagulant properties
Authors: Nakamura Norihiko , Kuragaki Chie , Shidara Yoshihiro , Yamaji Kenji , Wada Yoshinao
Published: February 2007

Anti‐annexin V (anti‐ANXV) IgG and lupus anticoagulant (LAC) were both shown to be capable of inducing apoptosis in umbilical vein endothelial cells [Nakamura et al.:Biochem Biophys Res Commun 205:1488‐1493,1994]. In the present study, we have demonstrated that anti‐ANXV lgG prolongs the activated partial thromboplastin time and has an affinity for phospholipids in enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. This indicates overlapping of anti‐ANXV and LAC activities, suggesting that ANXV may be involved in the autoimmune mechanism for LAC production. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bone marrow of patients with active multiple myeloma: Angiogenesis and plasma cell adhesion molecules LFA‐1, VLA‐4, LAM‐1, and CD44
Authors: Vacca Angelo , Loreto Michela Di , Ribatti Domenico , Stefano Rita Di , Gadaleta‐Caldarola Gennaro , Iodice Giuseppe , Caloro Daniela , Dammacco Franco
Published: February 2007

Bone marrow plasma cells and stromal cells in multiple myeloma (MM) have been shown to be capable of releasing cytokines with angiogenic properties. Plasma cells can also express adhesion molecules controlling their adhesive interactions with endothelial cells. In the present study, we have evaluated by immunohistochemistry the extent of angiogenesis in the bone marrow of: a) 51 patients with active and non‐active MM; b) 25 patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Plasma cells were investigated by flow cytometry for the expression of the adhesion molecules LFA‐1, VLA‐4, LAM‐1, and CD44. The results showed that, while angiogenesis was very low or absent in patients with MGUS and non‐active MM, it increased markedly in those with active MM. The highest detectability of plasma cell adhesion molecules, except LAM‐1, was also found in these patients. The functional significance of these findings is unknown. Their consistent occurrence in the bone marrow of active myeloma patients, however, strongly suggests that more frequent adhesive interactions between plasma cells and their microvasculature underlie tumor dissemination.
Use of recombinant hirudin as antithrombotic treatment in patients with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Schiele F. , Vuillemenot A. , Kramarz P. , Kieffer Y. , Anguenot T. , Bernard Y. , Bassand J. P.
Published: February 2007

Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia is a rare but severe complication of heparin therapy that can result in severe venous or arterial thromboembolic events and whose treatment remains partially unanswered. Recombinant hirudin is potentially effective as an antithrombotic treatment in the management of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia, given its potent antithrombin effects without known interaction with platelets. We report the results obtained with intravenous recombinant hirudin (HBW 023) administered on a compassionate basis to patients suffering from heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia.

Six patients suffering from heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia were submitted to intravenous recombinant hirudin (HBW 023) administered at a dose of 0.05 mg/kg/hr after an initial bolus injection of 0.07 mg/kg in the case of a venous thromboembolic event, and at a dose of 0.15 mg/kg/hr with the same initial bolus injection in the case of an arterial thromboembolic event. Whenever possible, oral anticoagulation with acenocoumarol was introduced at the same time as recombinant hirudin, which was interrupted as soon as the international normalized ratio reached 3. Clinical events, particularly thromboembolism and bleeding, were noted; activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and platelet count were assessed throughout the administration of recombinant hirudin.

Heparins responsible for heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia were porcine sodium or calcium heparinate in four cases, nadroparin in one case, and enoxaparin in one case. Thrombocytopenia was discovered on routine systematic platelet count in two patients and after the occurrence of arterial and venous thromboembolism in two patients, respectively. After discontinuation of heparin and the onset of recombinant hirudin, clinical evolution was uneventful in all patients, with no recurrence of thromboembolism, limb amputation, or hemorrhagic complication. The aPTT ratio varied from 1.8 to 3.5 (median 2.4) throughout administration of recombinant hirudin. Platelet count rose from nadir (median value 60 × 109 15 to 90) to above 100 × 109/L in every patient within 3–6 days (median 5), after discontinuation of heparin.

Intravenous administration of recombinant hirudin ensured safe anticoagulation in patients with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and made it possible to wait for oral anticoagulation to become efficient and platelet count to return to normal values without occurrence or recurrence of thromboembolism.
Pancytopenia due to hemophagocytic syndrome as the presenting manifestation of babesiosis
Authors: Gupta Pankaj , Hurley Randolph W. , Helseth Peter H. , Goodman Jesse L. , Hammerschmidt Dale E.
Published: February 2007

We present a case of hemophagocytosis during infection with the intraërythrocytic protozoanBabesia microtiin a 47‐year‐old splenectomized renal allograft recipient. After therapy with clindamycin and quinine a relapse responded to atovaquone; durable remission was not achieved until trimethoprim/sulfa was added. We postulate the severity of our patient's syndrome was due to splenectomy and chronic immunosuppression. Babesiosis should be considered when immunocompromised patients develop pancytopenia.
Coagulant proteins and thrombin generation in synovial fluid: A model for extravascular coagulation
Authors: Chang Ping , Aronson David L. , Borenstein David G. , Kessler Craig M.
Published: February 2007

The coagulant content and thrombin generating potential of synovial fluid from patients with osteoarthritis were studied as a model of extravascular coagulation. The concentrations of individual coagulant proteins were partially correlated with their molecular weight. The levels of the very large coagulants factor V, factor VIII and von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF:ag) are less than 1% of the activities found in a normal pooled reference plasma while smaller coagulants including factors IX, XI and prothrombin range between 9 and 30%. The protease inhibitors antithrombin‐III (AT‐III) and Alpha‐2 macroglobulin in synovial fluid were present at levels of 74% and 13% of plasma, higher than expected based on their molecular weights. Prothrombin was more rapidly activated by tissue thromboplastin than by aPTT reagent. The thrombin activity formed in synovial fluid decreased more rapidly than that formed in dilute plasma. The addition of recombinant factor VIII or bovine factor V to synovial fluid accelerated the thrombin production by APTT but not by tissue thromboplastin. Indicating that the low levels of factor VIII and factor V did limit the rate of thrombin production. The addition of specific antibodies to factor VIII or factor V strongly inhibited thrombin production by aPTT.

These data confirm a roughly inverse relationship between the concentrations of coagulation proteins and their molecular weight in synovial fluid and indicate that thrombin can be generated in synovial fluid. The inactivation of thrombin in synovial fluid may be more dependent on antithrombin‐III than in plasma because of the increased AT‐III/alpha‐2 macroglobulin ratio seen in synovial fluid.
Serum concentrations of IL‐5, GM‐CSF, and IL‐3 and the production by lymphocytes in various eosinophilia
Authors: Koike Toshiyuki , Enokihara Hideo , Arimura Hironari , Ninomiya Haruhiko , Yamashiro Kyoko , Tsuruoka Nobuo , Tsujimoto Masafumi , Aoyagi Masakuni , Watanabe Kanji , Nakamura Yuuichi , Saitou Kenji , Furusawa Shimpei , Shishido Hideo
Published: February 2007

The concentrations of interleukin‐5 (IL‐5), granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor GM‐CSF, and interleukin‐3 (IL‐3) in serum and in IL‐2‐stimulated lymphocyte culture medium (L‐IL2‐CM) prepared from patients with reactive eosinophilia were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum IL‐5 levels were increased in 16 out of 42 cases. GM‐CSF and IL‐3 were below the detectable levels in all sera examined. The concentrations of IL‐5 and GM‐CSF in L‐IL2‐CM were increased in 10 out of 29 patients. IL‐3 was below the detectable levels in all L‐IL2‐CM.
Randomized trial of loperamide versus dose escalation of octreotide acetate for chemotherapy‐induced diarrhea in bone marrow transplant and leukemia patients
Authors: Geller Robert B. , Gilmore Claire E. , Dix Suzanne P. , Lin Lillian S. , Topping Donna L. , Davidson Terri G. , Kent Holland H. , Wingard John R.
Published: February 2007

This study compares maximal daily doses of loperamide to escalating doses of continuous intravenous (Cl) octreotide acetate in bone marrow transplant (BMT) and leukemia patients.

A total of 36 patients were enrolled in the study. Of these, all were evaluable for intention to treat, and 31 were evaluable for initial response. Based on intent to treat at the initial 48 hr, patients receiving loperamide had a higher complete response rate (86% vs. 45%, P = 0.033) than did those who received octreotide. By treatment analysis (patients who actually received the drug), patients receiving loperamide had a higher complete response rate (92% vs. 56%, P = 0.0448) than did those who received octreotide at the 150 μg dosage level. Additional octreotide patients eventually achieved a CR at a higher dosage level (78%).

Loperamide at maximal doses of 4 mg po q6h is more effective than octreotide 150 μg Cl in treating diarrhea following chemotherapy in BMT and leukemia patients. Higher doses of octreotide may be required in a significant number of patients not responding to lower doses.

Following chemotherapy, BMT and leukemia patients who developed ≧600 ml of stool volume in a 24‐hr period were randomized to receive loperamide 4 mg po q6h or octreotide 150 μg mixed in hyperalimentation solution or normal saline and administered Cl. Patients were assessed at 48 hr intervals for decrease in stool volume from baseline. Complete response (CR) was defined as ≧50% from baseline stool volume (BSV). Patients receiving octreotide who did not achieve a CR at 48 hr were dose escalated by doubling the dose to a maximum of 2,400 μg with evaluations at 48 hr intervals. Patients receiving loperamide who did not achieve a CR at 48 hr had treatment discontinued.
Danazol distribution in plasma and cell membranes as related to altered cell properties: Implications for mechanism
Authors: Horstman Lawrence L. , Jy Wenche , Arce Manuel , Ahn Yeon S.
Published: February 2007

Concentrations of danazol in patient plasma and red blood cells (RBC) were assayed over a 6‐month period in 75 patients on danazol therapy using a high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method more reliable than previous radioimmunoassay (RIA) methods. It was found that plasma danazol rose regularly for 15 days after the beginning of treatment, reaching a steady state plateau of 175 ± 76 ng/ml in 20 patients on normal dose, and less for lower dose schedules. After stopping danazol, concentrations declined to near zero in a similar time frame. RBC concentrations on a packed volume basis were similar to plasma levels. However, the membrane ghosts of RBC contained about 50% of the total RBC danazol, implying about 100‐fold higher concentration in membranes than in plasma. Similar distributions were obtained in vitro with both RBC and platelets, and were confirmed by 14‐C‐labeled danazol. These findings tend to support the hypothesis that the benefits of danazol in immune disorders may be attributable in part to its intercalation in the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane, altering antigen/receptor expression to modulate immune reactions. This hypothesis was first suggested when it was observed that the RBC of patients on danazol therapy showed morphological changes and increased resistance to osmotic lysis. It was later shown that danazol in vitro reduces binding of autoantibodies, and protects against complement‐mediated lysis, suggesting direct action of danazol on the membranes. This hypothesis is discussed, and danazol's effect in protecting against complement‐mediated lysis is described.
Two antithrombin mutations in a compound heterozygote: Met20Thr and Tyr166Cys
Authors: Perry D. J. , Daly M. E. , Colvin B. T. , Brown K. , Carrell R. W.
Published: February 2007

The molecular basis for a family with Type I antithrombin deficiency has been established. Amplification and sequencing of the antithrombin gene identified two mutations: Met20Thr (2523T°C) within exon 2 and Tyr166Cys (5493A→G) within exon 3a. Further analysis indicated that the propositus was a compound heterozygote but in addition provided evidence for phase disruption during the amplification and/or cloning procedure. The Met20Thr mutation appears to be a neutral mutation with no functional consequences. In contrast, the Tyr166Cys mutation is associated with a Type I phenotype.
Acquired von willebrand's disease: A rare manifestation of postpartum thyroiditis
Authors: Aylesworth Cheryl A. , Smallridge Robert C. , Rick Margaret E. , Alving Barbara M.
Published: February 2007

This report describes the diagnosis of acquired type I von Willebrand disease in a 30‐year‐old woman (G5P5) who presented with complaints of excessive bleeding in the postpartum period. The patient's additional complaints of fatigue, depression, and inability to lose weight resulted in laboratory testing that indicated hypothyroidism due to thyroiditis. Clinical symptoms and laboratory tests for von Willebrand disease and hypothyroidism normalized with L‐thyroxine replacement Thyroiditis resulting in symptomatic hypothyroidism occurs in 2–4 per cent of postpartum women. The possibility of underlying hypothyroidism should be considered for those patients, especially if they are parous women, who appear to have an acquired bleeding disorder suggestive of von Willebrand disease.
Human immunodeficiency virus rather than hepatitis C virus infection is relevant to the development of an anti‐cardiolipin antibody
Authors: Gotoh Moritaka , Matsuda Juzo
Published: February 2007

We have investigated whether or not a relationship exists between anti‐cardiolipin antibody (aCL) positivity and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV), and we have attempted to clarify which virus has close association with the development of aCL. We found that aCL positivity in HIV‐infected patients was significantly higher than in HCV‐infected patients. Furthermore, HIV/HCV dual‐infected patients exhibited a higher aCL positivity than patients infected by HCV alone. From these results, we conclude that HIV rather than HCV plays an important role in the development of aCL.
Serum hyaluronan is increased in malignant lymphoma
Authors: Hasselbalch Hans , Hovgaard Doris , Nissen Nis , Junker Peter
Published: February 2007

The serum concentration of hyaluronan (HYA) was measured in 41 patients with malignant lymphoma, including 21 patients with non‐Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma and 20 patients with Hodgkin's disease. Thirty‐four patients were studied at diagnosis. The remaining 7 patients had relapsing or resistant disease. The patients were categorized into four stages according to conventional staging procedures. The median serum HYA concentration in patients with malignant lymphoma was significantly higher (median 40.7 ng/ml; 95% confidence limits 26.1–57.6 ng/ml) than in an age‐matched healthy reference group (median 14.5 ng/ml, 95% confidence limits 11–19.4 ng/ml) (P = 0.00032). The highest serum HYA levels were found in patients with relapsing/resistant disease, all being in stages III and IV (median 181.5; range 11.9–500 ng/ml), as compared to previously untreated patients (median 29.8; range 9.1–108) (P = 0.0002) and controls (median 14.2; range 6.7–51.2). Decreased uptake and degradation of HYA owing to malignant transformation of lymphatic tissue is the most plausible explanation to these findings.
Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and fatal thrombosis in a patient with activated protein C resistance
Authors: Gardyn J. , Sorkin P. , Kluger Y. , Kabili S. , Klausner J. M. , Zivelin A. , Eldor A.
Published: February 2007

We report a 20‐year‐old woman who developed heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) associated with devastating and fatal multiorgan thrombosis. The patient, her mother, and her brother were found to have resistance to activated protein C (APC), and the congenital thrombophilia in this family was verified by the finding of the Arg506 Gln mutation in factor V. This is the first case of HIT and APC resistance. The consequences of this association are discussed.
Light‐heavy chain deposition disease progressing to multiple myeloma
Authors: Daliani Danai , Weber Donna , Alexanian Raymond
Published: February 2007

Light chain deposition disease (LCDD) and light and heavy chain deposition disease (LHCDD) are rare clinical entities that have been associated with multiple myeloma, with monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), or without any detectable protein abnormality. Renal failure is common, the diagnosis is difficult and prolonged survival is rare. The first patient with LHCDD and MGUS who progressed to multiple myeloma after 11 years is presented. A rising level of monoclonal IgA immunoglobulin, bone marrow plasmacytosis, and the presence of multiple bone marrow lesions on magnetic resonance imaging provided the first evidence of disease evolution. When management of serious complications permits a long survival, some patients with LCDD or LHCDD will develop multiple myeloma.
Lymphoid malignancies following kawasaki disease
Authors: Murray Jeffrey C. , Bomgaars Lisa R. , Carcamo Benjamin , Mahoney Donald H.
Published: February 2007

Kawasaki disease is a childhood multisystem vasculitic syndrome of unknown etiology. Associated immunological dysregulation is consistently observed and may be pathogenic in the known cardiac and noncardiac complications of the disease. Despite the wellknown association between acquired immunodeficiency states and neoplasia, there are no reports of cancer accompanying or following the onset of this disease. We report here two children who were diagnosed with lymphoid malignancies shortly following the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease, suggesting an association between the two entities.
Linkage‐disequilibrium of the senegal haplotype with the βs gene in the republic of guinea
Authors: Sow Alhassane , Peterson Eleanor , Josifovska Olgiça , Fabry Mary E. , Krishnamoorthy Rajagopal , Nagel Ronald L.
Published: February 2007

We have determined the β gene cluster haplotype in 40 chromosomes carrying the βs mutation from individuals of the major ethnic groups living in the Republic of Guinea. Thirty‐one of these were either the typical (n = 29) or the atypical (n = 2) Senegal haplotype demonstrating that in this region of Atlantic West Africa, the sickle mutation is in linkage disequilibrium with this particular β‐gene cluster haplotype. Two individuals carrying one chromosome bearing the Benin haplotype were of Malinke ethnic origin. This is in keeping with the hypothesis that the Senegal β‐gene cluster haplotype is linked to the βs gene in Atlantic West Africa.
Cardiovascular mortality among Swedish pulp and paper mill workers
Authors: Persson Bodil , Magnusson Anders , Westberg Håkan , Andersson Eva , Torén Kjell , Wingren Gun , Axelson Olav
Published: February 2007

Background

Malignant diseases but also cardiovascular and respiratory disorders and diabetes mellitus have been associated with work in pulp and paper production. The present cohort focuses on cardiovascular mortality in relation to various exposures in this industry.

Methods

The cohort, followed‐up for mortality, includes 7,107 workers, 6,350 men and 757 women, from three major old mills in the middle of Sweden.

Results

Instead of a healthy‐worker effect, a slightly increased risk for death in diseases of the circulatory system was found for male workers. Notably, work with sulfate digestion, steam and power generation and maintenance was associated with significantly increased risks. Cerebrovascular diseases showed non‐significantly increased risks for maintenance and paper and paperboard production and manufacture.

Conclusions

The differences in risk among various parts of the production are striking although it is hard to pinpoint any specific exposures. Dust and small particles along with sulfur compounds might be suspected. Am. J. Ind. Med. 50: 221–226 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficacy of the bone injection gun in the treatment of organophosphate poisoning
Authors: Eisenkraft Arik , Gilat Eran , Chapman Shira , Baranes Shlomo , Egoz Inbal , Levy Aharon
Published: February 2007

Immediate administration of antidotal treatment is crucial in severe organophosphate (OP) poisoning and the use of an open intravenous (i.v.) line might also be required. The state of casualties might prevent getting access to their veins. The bone injection gun (BIG) was established as a simple method for introducing an intraosseous (i.o.) line and could be applied while wearing a protective suit. The present study followed the pharmacokinetics of the anticonvulsive drug midazolam after i.o. administration in pigs compared with i.v. and the common intramuscular (i.m.) administration.

A new method for monitoring midazolam concentrations in plasma was developed. Plasma concentrations following both i.v. and i.o. administrations peaked at 2 min post injection and only at 10 min following the i.m. route. In an antidotal treatment study against paraoxone poisoning, the anticonvulsive effect of midazolam appeared immediately following i.o. administration, while it took 5–10 min to exhibit a similar effect following i.m. administration.

This study indicates that the use of i.o. administration after OP poisoning might provide the necessary fast response for rapid termination of convulsions. The BIG might offer a convenient method for treating casualties in the chemical arena by teams wearing full protective gear. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glycoproteins bound to ion channels mediate detection of electric fields: A proposed mechanism and supporting evidence
Authors: Kolomytkin Oleg V. , Dunn Sharon , Hart Francis X. , Frilot Clifton , Kolomytkin Dmitry , Marino Andrew A.
Published: February 2007

The mechanism by which animals detect weak electric and magnetic fields has not yet been elucidated. We propose that transduction of an electric field (E) occurs at the apical membrane of a specialized cell as a consequence of an interaction between the field and glycoproteins bound to the gates of ion channels. According to the model, a glycoprotein mass (M) could control the gates of ion channels, where M > 1.4 × 10−18/E, resulting in a signal of sufficient strength to overcome thermal noise. Using the electroreceptor organ of Kryptopterus as a mathematical and experimental model, we showed that at the frequency of maximum sensitivity (10 Hz), fields as low as 2 µV/m could be detected, and that the observation could be explained if a glycoprotein mass of 0.7 × 10−12 kg (a sphere 11 µm in diameter) were bound to channel gates. Antibodies against apical membrane structures in Kryptopterus blocked field transduction, which was consistent with the proposal that it occurred at the membrane surface. Although the target of the field was hypothesized to be an ion channel, the proposed mechanism can easily be extended to include other kinds of membrane proteins. Bioelectromagnetics 28:379–385, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of operative competence during carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Beard J D , Choksy S , Khan S
Published: February 2007

Background

Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) has been used to assess operative competence. The aim was to evaluate its role in carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

Methods

Over 2 years, 17 trainees and 11 consultants were assessed by a single observer using a task-specific checklist and global ratings. Operating time and previous experience were also recorded.

Results

Trainees had previously performed fewer CEAs than consultants (median (interquartile range, i.q.r.) 15 (7–24) versus 94 (61–133) respectively; P < 0·001) and they took longer to perform operations (median (i.q.r.) 128 (119–143) versus 90 (82·5–98·5) min; P < 0·001). Trainees achieved lower task-specific (median (i.q.r.) 23 (17–26) versus 25 (24·5–27·5); P = 0·031) and global (33 (30–35) versus 40 (36·5–43); P = 0·001) scores than consultants. There was a strong positive correlation between task-specific scores and experience for trainees (r = 0·83, P < 0·001), but not for consultants. Global ratings correlated with experience for trainees (r = 0·69, P = 0·002) and more so for consultants (r = 0·82, P = 0·002). There was a positive correlation between task-specific and global scores for trainees (r = 0·67, P = 0·003), but not for consultants.

Conclusion

Task-specific checklists were more discriminatory between trainees and may be useful for formative assessment (training). Global ratings were more discriminatory for consultants and may be useful for summative assessment (examination or revalidation).
How to Polymerize Ethylene in a Highly Controlled Fashion?
Authors: Kempe Rhett
Published: February 2007

Very fast, reversible, polyethylene (PE) chain transfer or complex‐catalysed “Aufbaureaktion” describes a “living” chain‐growing process on a main‐group metal or zinc atom; this process is catalysed by an organo‐transition‐metal or lanthanide complex. PE chains are transferred very fast between the two metal sites and chain growth takes place through ethylene insertion into the transition‐metal‐ or lanthanide‐carbon bond—coordinative chain‐transfer polymerisation (CCTP). The transferred chains “rest” at the main‐group or zinc centre, at which chain‐termination processes like β‐H transfer/elimination are of low significance. Such protocols can be used to synthesise very narrowly distributed PE materials (Mw/Mn<1.1 up to a molecular weight of about 4000 g mol−1) with differently functionalised end groups. Higher molecular‐weight polymers can be obtained with a slightly increased Mw/Mn, since diffusion control and precipitation of the polymers influences the chain‐transfer process. Recently, a few transition‐metal‐ or lanthanide‐based catalyst systems that catalyse such a highly reversible chain‐growing process have been described. They are summarised and compared within this contribution.
The Bonding of Interstitial Hydrogen in the NiTi Intermetallic Compound
Authors: Kang Dae‐Bok
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Ge52‐ Zintl Anions: Synthesis and Crystal Structures of [K([2.2.2]‐Crypt)]2Ge5×4NH3 and [Rb([2.2.2]‐Crypt)]2Ge5×4NH3.
Authors: Suchentrunk Christof , Korber Nikolaus
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties of the Coupled Spin Dimer Compound SrCu2(TeO3)2Cl2.
Authors: Takagi Rie , Johnsson Mats , Kremer Reinhard K. , Lemmens Peter
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Easily Accessible Chiral Imidazolinium Salts Bearing Two Hydroxy‐Containing Substituents as Shift Reagents and Carbene Precursors.
Authors: Jurcik Vaclav , Gilani Mazhar , Wilhelm Rene
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Complete Reversal of Enantioselection Using Oxazoline‐Containing Schiff Base Ligands Derived from L‐Serine in Enantioselective Addition of Diketene to Aldehydes.
Authors: Chu Changhu , Morishita Koji , Tanaka Takanori , Hayashi Masahiko
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Facile Approach to the Synthesis of Allylic Spiro Ethers and Lactones.
Authors: Yeh Ming‐Chang , Lee Yi‐Chin , Young Tsao‐Ching
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Suzuki Coupling of 2‐Chloroacrylontrile, Methyl 2‐Chloroacrylate, or 2‐Chloroprop‐1‐en‐3‐ol with Arylboronic Acids Catalyzed by a Palladium‐Tetraphosphine Complex.
Authors: Berthiol. Florian Berthiol. Florian , Doucet Henri , Santelli Maurice
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Second‐Generation Catalyst for Intermolecular Hydroacylation of Alkenes and Alkynes Using β‐S‐Substituted Aldehydes: The Role of a Hemilabile P—O—P Ligand.
Authors: Moxham Gemma L. , Randell‐Sly Helen E. , Brayshaw Simon K. , Woodward Robert L. , Weller Andrew S. , Willis Michael C.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
α‐Lithio Quinuclidine N‐Oxide (Li‐QNO): A New Base for Synthetic Chemistry.
Authors: O'Neil Ian A. , Bhamra Inder , Gibbons Peter D.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Threading Cesium Ions: Metal, Host, and Ligand Control in Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry.
Authors: Saalfrank Rolf W. , Scheurer Andreas , Puchta Ralph , Hampel Frank , Maid Harald , Heinemann Frank W.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Ionic Liquid Promoted Highly Efficient Aziridination of Alkenes with Chloramine‐T Using N‐Bromosuccinimide as Catalyst.
Authors: Jain Suman L. , Sain Bir
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Enantioselective Organocatalytic Aldol Reaction of Ynones and Its Synthetic Applications.
Authors: Silva Franck , Sawicki Marcin , Gouverneur Veronique
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Copper(I) Chloride Mediated Cyclization of Optically Active 2,3‐Allenoic Acids or 1:1 Salts of Optically Active 2,3‐Allenoic Acids with Chiral Amines.
Authors: Ma Shangming , Yu Zhanqian
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Facile Synthesis of Substituted Thiophenes via Pd/C‐Mediated Sonogashira Coupling in Water.
Authors: Raju Sirisilla , Kumar P. Rajender , Mukkanti K. , Annamalai Pazhanimuthu , Pal Manojit
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
sp3 C—H Bond Arylation Directed by Amidine Protecting Group: α‐Arylation of Pyrrolidines and Piperidines.
Authors: Pastine Stefan J. , Gribkov Denis V. , Sames Dalibor
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis of Nitrogen Heterocycles by the Ring Opening of Pyridinium Salts.
Authors: Kearney Aaron M. , Vanderwal Christopher D.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Improved Synthesis of 1‐Hydroxy‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐3‐imidazoline 3‐Oxide (HTIO).
Authors: Polienko Julya F. , Schanding Thomas , Voinov Maxim A. , Grigor'ev Igor A.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Efficient Room‐Temperature Synthesis of Tri‐ and Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles Catalyzed by ZrCl4.
Authors: Sharma G. V. M. , Jyothi Y. , Lakshmi P. Sree
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Expeditious Approach to Coumarins via Pechmann Reaction Catalyzed by Molecular Iodine or AgOTf.
Authors: Wu Jie , Diao Tianning , Sun Wei , Li Yizhe
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Pyranobenzoquinones Related to the Pyranonaphthoquinone Antibiotics.
Authors: Lagorio S. H. , Bianchi D. A. , Sutich E. G. , Kaufman T. S.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Electrophilic Aromatic Substituted Luciferins as Bioluminescent Probes for Glutathione S‐Transferase Assays.
Authors: Zhou Wenhui , et al. et al.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Cooperative Coexistence: Effective Interplay of Two Broensted Acids in the Asymmetric Synthesis of Isoquinuclidines.
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Azap Cengiz
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis and Biological Study of 4‐Aminopyrimidine‐5‐carboxaldehyde Oximes as Antiproliferative VEGFR‐2 Inhibitors.
Authors: Huang Shenlin , Li Ronghua , Connolly Peter J. , Xu Guozhang , Gaul Michael D. , Emanuel Stuart L. , LaMontagne Kenneth R. , Greenberger Lee M.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Single‐Step Synthesis of Pyrimidine Derivatives.
Authors: Movassaghi Mohammad , Hill Matthew D.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Adamantane 11‐β‐HSD‐1 Inhibitors: Application of an Isocyanide Multicomponent Reaction.
Authors: Link J. T. , et al. et al.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Four New Pregnane Glycosides from the Stems of Marsdenia tenacissima.
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Ling , Li Qi‐Fa , Yu Kai‐Bei , Peng Shu‐Lin , Zhou Yan , Ding Li‐Sheng
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis of New Dehydro 2‐Azatryptophans and Derivatives via Heck Cross‐Coupling Reactions of 3‐Iodoindazoles with Methyl 2‐(Acetylamino)acrylate.
Authors: Crestey Francois , Collot Valerie , Stiebing Silvia , Rault Sylvain
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Genotoxic Activity of Halogenated Phenylglycine Derivatives.
Authors: Boto Alicia , Gallardo Juan A. , Hernandez Rosendo , Ledo Francisco , Munoz Ana , Murguia Jose R. , Menacho‐Marquez Mauricio , Orjales Aurelio , Saavedra Carlos J.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
5′‐Methylaristeromycin and Related Derivatives.
Authors: Ye Wei , Schneller Stewart W.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Simple Analogues of Acyclonucleosides: Synthesis of N‐Substituted Pyrido[3′,2′:4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine Derivatives.
Authors: Khattab Ahmed F. , Zahran Magdy A. , Saif Ahmed
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Efficient Synthesis of New Nucleoside Analogues with a Methylenecyclobutane Unit.
Authors: Danappe Sophie , Boeda Fabien , Alexandre Christian , Aubertin Anne‐Marie , Bourgougnon Nathalie , Huet Francois
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Americanin, a Bioactive Dibenzylbutyrolactone Lignan, from the Seeds of Centaurea americana.
Authors: Shoeb Mohammad , MacManus Stephen M. , Kumarasamy Yashodharan , Jaspars Marcel , Nahar Lutfun , Thoo‐Lin Paul Kong , Nazemiyeh Hossein , Sarker Satyajit D.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Total Synthesis of the Hydroxyketone Kurasoin A Using Asymmetric Phase‐Transfer Alkylation.
Authors: Andrus Merritt B. , Hicken Erik J. , Stephens Jeffrey C. , Bedke D. Karl
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Alternative Synthesis of Cystothiazole A.
Authors: Akita Hiroyuki , Sutou Noriyuki , Sasaki Takamitsu , Kato Keisuke
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Yaequinolones, New Insecticidal Antibiotics Produced by Penicillium sp. FKI‐2140. Part 2. Structural Elucidation.
Authors: Uchida Ryuji , Imasato Rie , Tomoda Hiroshi , Omura Satoshi
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Talosins A and B: New Isoflavonol Glycosides with Potent Antifungal Activity from Kitasatospora kifunensis MJM341. Part 2. Physicochemical Properties and Structure Determination.
Authors: Kim Won‐Gon , Yoon Tae Mi , Kwon Hyung Jin , Suh Joo Won
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Pocket v.2: Further Developments on Receptor‐Based Pharmacophore Modeling.
Authors: Chen Jing , Lai Luhua
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Tetrahydroisoquinoline PPARγ Agonists: Design of Novel, Highly Selective Non‐TZD Antihyperglycemic Agents.
Authors: Henry James R. , et al. et al.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Pillared Materials from Layer Titanosilicates?
Authors: Ferraris G.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Asymmetric Catalytic [4 + 3] Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Harmata Michael
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Recent Advances in the Catalytic Pauson—Khand‐Type Reaction
Authors: Shibata Takanori
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Developments in the Chemistry of Selenaheterocyclic Compounds of Practical Importance in Synthesis and Medicinal Biology
Authors: Mlochowski Jacek , Kloc Krystian , Lisiak Rafal , Potaczek Piotr , Wojtowicz Halina
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Catalytic C—C Bond Formation in Natural Products Synthesis. Highlights from the Years 2000—2005
Authors: Hong Bor‐Cherng , Nimje Roshan Y.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Rhodium(II)‐Catalyzed Reaction of Diazo Compounds in the Service of Organic Synthesis of Natural and Non‐Natural Products
Authors: Wee Andrew G. H.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
The Future of Organic Synthesis
Authors: Kuendig Peter
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
State‐of‐Art Methodology of Marine Natural Products Chemistry: Structure Determination with Extremely Small Sample Amounts
Authors: Murata M. , Oishi T. , Yoshida M.
Published: February 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.