bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulation and melting beneath George VI Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Jenkins Adrian , Jacobs Stan
Published: April 2008

Oceanographic data are presented from the eastern Bellingshausen Sea, representing the first near‐contemporaneous sampling of conditions near both the northern and southern ice fronts of George VI Ice Shelf. Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW) with a temperature in excess of 1°C floods the entire continental shelf and forms the main inflow to the cavity beneath the ice shelf. We use measurements of salinity, potential temperature, stable isotope ratios and dissolved oxygen, helium, and neon to show that the outflows contain meltwater in concentrations that rise to a maximum of around 3%. Assuming that the currents are in geostrophic balance, we calculate relative velocities along the ice front sections, then estimate the absolute velocity by inversion of the tracer conservation equations. We obtain an overall mean melt rate of 3–5 m a−1 and a net south‐to‐north throughflow beneath the ice shelf of 0.17–0.27 Sv. The mean melt rate exceeds that required for equilibrium, consistent with recent observations of ice shelf thinning and retreat. Melting beneath the ice shelf drives upwelling of about 0.1 Sv in total of CDW into the surface mixed layer at the two ice fronts. The effective vertical heat flux per unit area of ice shelf cover is 8 W m−2, more than 4 times that estimated for vertical diffusion through the main pycnocline of the neighboring open water region. The south‐to‐north throughflow carries a particularly strong signature of upwelled CDW, including low dissolved oxygen and high nutrient concentrations, north into Marguerite Bay.
Mapping and interpretation of Sinlap crater on Titan using Cassini VIMS and RADAR data
Authors: Le Mouélic Stéphane , Paillou Philippe , Janssen Michael A. , Barnes Jason W. , Rodriguez Sébastien , Sotin Christophe , Brown Robert H. , Baines Kevin H. , Buratti Bonnie J. , Clark Roger N. , Crapeau Marc , Encrenaz Pierre J. , Jaumann Ralf , Geudtner Dirk , Paganelli Flora , Soderblom Laurence , Tobie Gabriel , Wall Steve
Published: April 2008

Only a few impact craters have been unambiguously detected on Titan by the Cassini‐Huygens mission. Among these, Sinlap is the only one that has been observed both by the RADAR and VIMS instruments. This paper describes observations at centimeter and infrared wavelengths which provide complementary information about the composition, topography, and surface roughness. Several units appear in VIMS false color composites of band ratios in the Sinlap area, suggesting compositional heterogeneities. A bright pixel possibly related to a central peak does not show significant spectral variations, indicating either that the impact site was vertically homogeneous, or that this area has been recovered by homogeneous deposits. Both VIMS ratio images and dielectric constant measurements suggest the presence of an area enriched in water ice around the main ejecta blanket. Since the Ku‐band SAR may see subsurface structures at the meter scale, the difference between infrared and SAR observations can be explained by the presence of a thin layer transparent to the radar. An analogy with terrestrial craters in Libya supports this interpretation. Finally, a tentative model describes the geological history of this area prior, during, and after the impact. It involves mainly the creation of ballistic ejecta and an expanding plume of vapor triggered by the impact, followed by the redeposition of icy spherules recondensed from this vapor plume blown downwind. Subsequent evolution is then driven by erosional processes and aeolian deposition.
Direct observation of cloud forcing by ground‐based thermal imaging
Authors: Smith Stephen , Toumi Ralf
Published: April 2008

Instantaneous surface Cloud Radiative Forcing (CRF) in the 7.5–13 μm region is observed for the first time, using a thermal infrared camera. The sampling of clear sky and cloudy radiances from images of broken cloud fields allows cloud cover, CRF and effective cloud emission to be directly calculated, all within a consistent field of view. Analysis of 1300 images taken over more than two months in Central England shows that surface CRF is a nonlinear function of cloud cover, with daytime forcings larger and less linear than those at night. This nonlinearity is caused both by the increase in cloud optical thickness and the more frequent occurrence of low altitude (warm) cloud as the cloud cover increases. Even for nearly complete cloud cover, effective cloud emission remains significantly less than that of widely assumed homogeneous, optically thick cloud. Possible clear sky sampling errors associated with traditional methods of measuring CRF are also investigated.
Wave dissipation by muddy seafloors
Authors: Elgar Steve , Raubenheimer Britt
Published: April 2008

Muddy seafloors cause tremendous dissipation of ocean waves. Here, observations and numerical simulations of waves propagating between 5‐ and 2‐m water depths across the muddy Louisiana continental shelf are used to estimate a frequency‐ and depth‐dependent dissipation rate function. Short‐period sea (4 s) and swell (7 s) waves are shown to transfer energy to long‐period (14 s) infragravity waves, where, in contrast with theories for fluid mud, the observed dissipation rates are highest. The nonlinear energy transfers are most rapid in shallow water, consistent with the unexpected strong increase of the dissipation rate with decreasing depth. These new results may explain why the southwest coast of India offers protection for fishing (and for the 15th century Portuguese fleet) only after large waves and strong currents at the start of the monsoon move nearshore mud banks from about 5‐ to 2‐m water depth. When used with a numerical nonlinear wave model, the new dissipation rate function accurately simulates the large reduction in wave energy observed in the Gulf of Mexico.
Suggested actions from the Melbourne HVP Information Seminar
Authors: Cotton Richard , Axton Myles , Bankier Agnes , Brais Bernard , Cavedon Lawrence , du Sart Desirée , George Peter , Goldgar David , Harrison Terence , Hibbert Marienne , Hopper John , Macrae Finlay , O’Keefe Christine , Ravine David , Savarirayan Ravi , Sheffield Les , Smith Tim , Stokes Nicola , Sundararajan Vijaya , Thorburn David , Winship Ingrid
Published: April 2008

The Human Variome Project (HVP; www.humanvariomeproject.org) was initiated at a meeting in June 2006 and addressed the problems of collecting genetic information and generated 96 recommendations (http://www.nature.com/ng/journal/v39/n4/full/ng0407-423.html) to overcome these, with the focus on Mendelian disease. A considerable number of projects have been added, to those that have been ongoing for a number of years, since that meeting. Also, a planning meeting is to be held May 25-29, 2008 in Spain (http://www.humanvariomeproject.org/HVP2008/).A dramatic boost has been given to the HVP by the preparedness and action of the International Society for Gastrointestinal Hereditary Tumours (InSiGHT; www.insight-group.org), to, in order to improve their own informatics systems for dealing with inherited colon cancer, set up a pilot system for collection and databasing mutation and phenotype information, i.e. to act as pilot for the HVP. This is then intended to be transferred to other genes and countries. Much relevant activity in this project is being led from and is based in Melbourne.This meeting in Melbourne has been conceived to review the current local situation and plans for the future. We are privileged that Myles Axton, Editor of Nature Genetics, a strong supporter of the HVP (see April 2007 Nature Genetics Editorial) and who has some ideas in the area (see August 2007 Nature Genetics Editorial) agreed to be keynote speaker.We proposed that the output of this meeting be published and, with permission, the abstracts and presentations placed on the website (www.humanvariomeproject.org/?p=Melbourne_Meeting). We also hope it will inform the May HVP Planning Meeting.
ZnO/polyaniline based inorganic/organic hybrid structure: Electrical and photoconductivity properties
Authors: Mridha S. , Basak D.
Published: April 2008

Single layer ZnO/polyaniline (PANI) inorganic/organic hybrid structure fabricated on glass substrate by depositing polyaniline film on the sol-gel ZnO thin film shows a rectifying behavior indicating the formation of a diode. The current transport mechanism is modeled through an energy band diagram. The heterojunction is sensitive to UV illumination. The photo-to-dark current ratio of the junction is about 46 for −5V bias. The photoresponse parameters of the diode are found to be better than those of only ZnO film of similar thickness. The results indicate that the ZnO/PANI hybrid structure might be promising for the UV photodetection applications.
Phase transformation behaviors of SiO2 doped Ge2Sb2Te5 films for application in phase change random access memory
Authors: Ryu Seung Wook , Oh Jin Ho , Lee Jong Ho , Choi Byung Joon , Kim Won , Hong Suk Kyoung , Hwang Cheol Seong , Kim Hyeong Joon
Published: April 2008

The improvement in the phase change characteristics of Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) films for phase change random access memory applications was investigated by doping the GST films with SiO2 using cosputtering at room temperature. As the sputtering power of SiO2 increased from 0to150W, the activation energy for crystallization increased from 2.1±0.2to3.1±0.15eV. SiO2 inhibited the crystallization of the amorphous GST films, which improved the long term stability of the metastable amorphous phase. The melting point decreased with increasing concentration of SiO2, which reduced the power consumption as well as the reset current.
Reduction in crystallization time of Sb:Te films through addition of Bi
Authors: Simpson R. E. , Hewak D. W. , Fons P. , Tominaga J. , Guerin S. , Hayden B. E.
Published: April 2008

The electrical, optical, and phase change properties of bismuth doped Sb8Te2 films have been characterized. Thin films of the material, with up to 15at.% percent Bi, have been synthesized; amorphous films were stable at room temperature with a Bi concentration of up to 13at.%. The effect of Bi on the phase change properties of the film is shown to reduce the crystallization time by an order of magnitude while the crystallization activation energy reduction is minimal; 0.2eV. Bismuth doped Sb8Te2 materials show potential as the active material in phase change data storage media.
Recrystallization of epitaxial GaN under indentation
Authors: Dhara S. , Das C. R. , Hsu H. C. , Raj Baldev , Bhaduri A. K. , Chen L. C. , Chen K. H. , Albert S. K. , Ray Ayan
Published: April 2008

We report recrystallization of epitaxial (epi-) GaN(0001) film under indentation. Hardness value is measured as ∼10GPa using a Berkovich indenter. “Pop-in” burst in the loading line indicates nucleation of dislocations setting in plastic motion of lattice atoms under stress field for the recrystallization process. Micro-Raman studies are used to identify the recrystallization process. Raman area mapping indicates the crystallized region. Phonon mode corresponding to E2(high) ∼570cm−1 in the as-grown epi-GaN is redshifted to stress free value ∼567cm−1 in the indented region. Evolution of A1(TO) and E1(TO) phonon modes are also reported to signify the recrystallization process.
Electrical characterization of DNA molecules in solution using impedance measurements
Authors: Liu Yi-Shao , Banada Padmapriya P. , Bhattacharya Shantanu , Bhunia Arun K. , Bashir Rashid
Published: April 2008

We report on impedance measurements of fluids to examine the impact of the length and concentration of free-floating double-stranded DNA molecules. The impedance versus frequency characteristics were fitted to an equivalent circuit model including solution dielectric capacitance and conductance. The extraction of these parameters can be used to detect the presence of DNA molecules in the nanomolar range for a 400bp long molecule. Our results show that the extracted dielectric capacitance and conductance increase with molecule length and concentration owing to a corresponding increase in number of molecule dipoles and counterions in solution.
Modeling and simulation for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Yong Virginia , Ho Seng-Tiong , Chang Robert P. H.
Published: April 2008

We developed an equivalent circuit for dye-sensitized solar cells, which provides a more accurate presentation and a better fit to the experimental I-V curves and Nyquist plots than earlier literature results, as verified by simulation. A simple expression for the estimation of the Warburg coefficient from the experimental Nyquist plot is also proposed in this letter. The simulated I-V curves and Nyquist plots are in good agreement with the experimental data. The interfacial charge transfer and recombination losses at the oxide/dye/electrolyte interface are found to be the most influential factor on the overall conversion efficiency.
Aging-induced giant recoverable electrostrain in Fe-doped 0.62Pb(Mg1∕3Nb2∕3)O3–0.38PbTiO3 single crystals
Authors: Feng Zuyong , Tan O. K. , Zhu Weiguang , Jia Yanmin , Luo Haosu
Published: April 2008

The aging effect of a 0.2mol% Fe-doped 0.62Pb(Mg1∕3Nb2∕3)O3–0.38PbTiO3 single crystal was investigated. The authors found that aging induced a double ferroelectric hysteresis loop and a giant recoverable electrostrain of 0.8% at an electric field of 1.2kV∕mm in the ⟨001⟩-oriented tetragonal crystal. This result is much higher than the strains obtained in crystals near the morphotropic phase boundary under the same field. Such aging effect is attributed to a point-defect-mediated reversible domain-switching mechanism. Large electrostrains (>0.55%) at 1.2kV∕mm for a broad temperature from room temperature to 160°C suggest that the aged single crystal is a promising electromechanical material.
Aromatase and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 localisation in the testes of pigs from birth to puberty linked to changes of hormone pattern and testicular morphology
Authors: Wagner A. , Claus R.
Published: April 2008

Oestrogens and glucocorticoids are important for spermatogenesis and are regulated via aromatase for oestradiol synthesis and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD 2) as an inactivator of cortisol. In the present study postnatal changes of these two enzymes were monitored together with testicular development and hormone concentrations. Pigs were assigned to three periods: Weeks 0–5, Weeks 5–11 or Weeks 11–17. In Period 1, groups of four piglets were killed after each week. Blood plasma and testes were sampled immediately post mortem. For Periods 2 and 3, groups of six pigs were fitted with vein catheters for daily blood collection. Testes from all pigs were obtained after killing. Levels of testosterone, oestradiol, LH, FSH and cortisol were determined radioimmunologically. The 11β-HSD 2- and aromatase-expressing cells were stained immunocytochemically. All hormones were maximal 2 weeks after birth. A rise of LH, testosterone and oestradiol occurred again at Week 17. FSH and cortisol remained basal. Parallel to the first postnatal rise, the presence of aromatase and 11β-HSD 2 in Leydig cells increased, together with germ and Sertoli cell numbers. Expression was low from 3 to 5 weeks, was resumed after Week 5 and was maximal at Week 17. The amount of 11β-HSD 2 in germ cells was greatest at birth, decreased thereafter and was absent after Week 3.
Spontaneously occurring differences in fetal weight do not affect blood pressure, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or the renin-angiotensin system in the late-gestation ovine fetus
Authors: Probyn Megan E. , Stacy Victoria , Desai Mina , Ross Michael , Harding Richard
Published: April 2008

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) has been associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease in adult life. Animal models of restricted fetal growth often cause FGR over discrete periods of gestation and hence may not be applicable to individuals with low birthweight but who are not clinically growth-restricted. Our aim was to determine whether spontaneously occurring differences in fetal growth influence the functional development of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis or the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), both of which are involved in arterial pressure regulation. Using sheep, arterial pressure and heart rate were monitored in chronically catheterised singleton and twin fetuses at 130, 134 and 137 days of gestation (term ~147 days). Fetuses were challenged, at different times, with exogenous angiotensin (Ang) II, combined administration of arginine vasopressin and corticotrophin releasing hormone (AVP+CRH) and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH); fetal cardiovascular responses and circulating cortisol concentrations were measured. In all fetuses Ang II and AVP+CRH altered cardiovascular function (increase in mean arterial pressure and decrease in heart rate); both AVP+CRH and ACTH increased circulating cortisol concentrations. Responses were not related to fetal bodyweight. We conclude that naturally occurring differences in growth do not influence the development of the HPA axis or RAS function in fetal sheep.
Uteroplacental insufficiency alters the mammary gland response to lactogenic hormones in vitro
Authors: O'Dowd Rachael , Wlodek Mary E. , Nicholas Kevin R.
Published: April 2008

Adequate mammary development and coordinated actions of lactogenic hormones are essential for the initiation of lactation. Pregnancies compromised by uteroplacental insufficiency impair mammary development and lactation, further slowing postnatal growth. It is not known whether the initiation of lactation or galactopoesis is compromised. Uteroplacental insufficiency induced in rats by bilateral uterine vessel ligation (Restricted) or sham surgery (Control) on Day 18 of gestation preceded collection of mammary tissue on Day 20 of pregnancy. Mammary explants were cultured with combinations of insulin, cortisol and prolactin and analysed for α-lactalbumin and β-casein gene expression. Mammary tissue from late pregnant Restricted rats had elevated α-lactalbumin, but not β-casein, mRNA, which is consistent with premature lactogenesis resulting from an early decline in peripheral maternal progesterone. Explants from Restricted rats were more responsive to hormone stimulation after 3 days in culture, indicating that compromised galactopoesis, not lactogenesis, most likely leads to the reduced growth of suckled pups.
Imagining the Community: Perspectives on Ukraine's Ethno-cultural Diversity
Authors: Hrytsenko Oleksandr
Published: April 2008

The conventional approach to describing ethno-cultural relations in a particular nation-state is in terms of the majority/minority dichotomy, that is, a representation of a society as consisting of the core nation and a minority or number of minorities alongside it. The minorities are usually of different ethnic origin, possess distinct linguistic-cultural characteristics and tend to be represented as groups that, owing to their minority status, are discriminated against. This approach has been adopted in Ukraine where in official discourse and state documents the core nation co-exists with national minorities. Ethno-cultural diversity is addressed by policy makers and the academic community, most often in terms of “national minorities,” “protection of minority rights,” “provision of schooling for minorities” and so forth. Ukrainian scholars and policy makers tend to use the same concepts as their counterparts in the West, albeit often modifying them to Ukrainian circumstances. However, as will be argued, this dichotomous treatment of the titular majority and the minority is ill-suited to Ukraine's circumstances as even the very concept of “minority” is unclear owing to the blurred sense of identity amongst many Ukrainians and Russians.
Ethnic Discrimination and the Discourse of “Indigenization”: The Regional Regime, “Indigenous Majority” and Ethnic Minorities in Krasnodar Krai in Russia
Authors: Popov Anton , Kuznetsov Igor
Published: April 2008

To many in both the East and the West it seemed axiomatic that the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 was due to “nationality reasons,” which were viewed as a natural process in the last empire's decline. Then, during the democratic reform of a totalitarian state, ethnic minority rights were first spoken of, and the growth of national self-awareness appeared to be an integral part of society's liberalization. Time has since shown that liberal changes in the economy and in the political and social spheres are not always accompanied by the establishment of social justice; indeed, it has frequently been minorities who are among the most unfortunate and marginalized groups in society. Defending the rights of minorities and combating ethnic and racial discrimination remains one of the most relevant issues in practically all post-socialist countries of the former Soviet Union and Eastern and Central Europe.
The Caucasus: One or Many? A View from the Region
Authors: Akkieva Svetlana
Published: April 2008

For all its geographical, cultural and political uniqueness, the definition of the Caucasus as a region is problematic. Geographers, geologists, political scientists, anthropologists and historians—all have disagreements between themselves and each other about such issues as what constitutes its borders, and what are the features of both its homogeneity and heterogeneity. Often, the use by representatives of one discipline of the conclusions and terminology from other disciplines in order to substantiate their positions complicates the problem even further. In any case, in general geographical terms the Caucasus is the territory between the Black, Azov and Caspian Seas, extending from the Kuma-Manych depression in the north to Georgia's and Armenia's borders with Turkey, and Azerbaijan's borders with Iran in the south. In physical-geological terms the Caucasus is predominantly a mountainous region which is shaped by the trajectories of the two mountain ranges, namely the Greater and Lesser Caucasus. The trajectory of the Greater Caucasus represents a diagonal stretching from the north-west to the southeast, while the trajectory of the Lesser Caucasus forms an ellipsoidal bow. At the Suram Passage the Lesser and Greater Caucasus practically merge. The Caucasus mountain range is divided lengthwise into the western Caucasus which stretches to Elbrus; the central Caucasus, which is between the Elbrus and Kazbek mountains; and the eastern Caucasus, which is to the east of the Kazbek.
Filling the Void: Ethnic Politics and Nationalities Policy in Post-Conflict Georgia
Authors: Broers Laurence
Published: April 2008

Of all the post-Soviet states, the challenge of managing ethnic diversity has perhaps been the most problematic in Georgia. Following the secessions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in the early 1990s, Georgia has recent experience not only of the radicalization of ethnic relations but also of defeat in violent ethnic conflict. Current debates surrounding the conceptualization and management of ethnic diversity are thus inseparable from urgent questions concerning the future of the Georgian state, and explanations of the conflicts and questions of power and domination. Perceptions of the issue are further overshadowed by memories of the chauvinist rhetoric and illiberal policies of the early phase of sovereignty under President Zviad Gamsakhurdia. Abroad, perceptions of Georgia as a “micro-empire” continue to be fuelled by references to the Gamsakhurdia era, above all in the Russian press, and short-sighted recourse in Western sources to theories of “ancient hatreds.” Defeat also means that contrary to demographic evidence of a proportional expansion of the ethnic Georgian population, independence has not imparted to the Georgian majority a sense of security associated with majority status. As a result of Georgia's apparent inability to influence outcomes in either the peace processes or internal developments in the seceded territories, and the decline in the Georgian population in real terms, the attainment of sovereignty has not allayed Georgian fears of either permanent territorial fragmentation or ethnic “degradation.” Georgians consequently approach issues of majority-minority relations from a position of perceived weakness, coupled with as yet unfulfilled “post-colonial” desires for Georgianization.
Effects of Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Selenium on Gastric Fundus in Cadmium Toxicity in Male Rats
Authors: Bolkent Sema , Sacan Ozlem , Yanardag Refiye , Bolkent Sehnaz
Published: April 2008

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic metal. It has an indirect role in the generation of various free radicals. Antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium are important for preventing the damage caused by reactive oxygen species. This study was undertaken to examine the effect of acute cadmium and/or antioxidants on serum lipid metabolism, tissue glutathione, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels, and ghrelin and metallothionein production in the gastric fundus mucosa of rats. Cd (2 mg/kg/day CdCl2) was administered to rats for 8 days, intraperitoneally. Vitamin E (250 mg/kg/day) + vitamin C (250 mg/kg/day) + sodium selenate (0.25 mg/kg/day) were administered to rats orally at the same time. The animals were treated by antioxidants 1 h prior to treatment with Cd every day. Gastric tissue homogenates were used for protein and glutathione and LPO levels. Phospholipid and total lipid levels were determined in serum. Gastric fundus sections examined for histopathological changes and by immunohistochemistry for expression of ghrelin and metallothionein. In the group treated with Cd, degenerative changes such as discontinuity in the surface epithelium were observed. The degenerative changes induced by Cd were decreased in the group given vitamin E + vitamin C + selenium. There was no significant change in ghrelin- and metallothionein-immunoreactive cells in fundus mucosa. Stomach glutathione levels insignificantly decreased in the Cd groups, but in the Cd group given antioxidant, stomach glutathione levels were significantly increased. Serum phospholipid and total lipid levels were significantly increased in the Cd groups. On the other hand, treatment with antioxidants reversed these effects. These results indicate that antioxidants partly prevent the toxicity of Cd in rat gastric fundus.
Economic Evaluation of Standing Order Programs for Pneumococcal Vaccination of Hospitalized Elderly Patients
Authors: Middleton Donald B. , Lin Chyongchiou J. , Smith Kenneth J. , Zimmerman Richard K. , Nowalk Mary Patricia , Roberts Mark S. , Fox Dwight E.
Published: April 2008

Background.

Standing order programs (SOPs), which allow for vaccination without an individual physician order, are the most effective mechanism to achieve high vaccination rates. Among the suggested settings for the utilization of SOPs are hospital inpatient units, because they provide care for those most likely to benefit from vaccination. The cost-effectiveness of this approach for elderly hospitalized persons is unknown. The purpose of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of SOPs for pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) vaccination for patients 65 years of age or older in 2 types of hospital.

Methods.

In 2004, a 1,094-bed tertiary care hospital implemented a pharmacy-based SOP for PPV, and a 225-bed community hospital implemented a nursing-based SOP for PPV. Newly admitted patients 65 years of age or older were screened for PPV eligibility and then offered PPV. Vaccination rates before and after initiation of SOPs in the United States, incidence rates of invasive pneumococcal disease in the United States, and US economic data were the bases of the cost-effectiveness analyses. One-way and multivariate sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results.

PPV vaccination rates increased 30.5% in the tertiary care hospital and 15.3% in the community hospital. In the base-case cost-effectiveness analysis, using a societal perspective, we found that both pharmacy-based and nursing-based SOPs cost less than $10,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained, with program costs (pharmacy-based SOPs cost $4.16 per patient screened, and nursing-based SOPs cost $4.60 per patient screened) and vaccine costs ($18.33 per dose) partially offset by potential savings from cases of invasive pneumococcal disease avoided ($12,436 per case). Sensitivity analyses showed SOPs for PPV vaccination to be cost-effective, compared with PPV vaccination without SOPs, unless the improvement in vaccination rate was less than 8%.

Conclusion.

SOPs do increase PPV vaccination rates in hospitalized elderly patients and are economically favorable, compared with PPV vaccination rates without SOPs.
University HealthSystem Consortium Quality Performance Benchmarking Study of the Insertion and Care of Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Harting Brian P. , Talbot Thomas R. , Dellit Timothy H. , Hebden Joan , Cuny Joanne , Greene William H. , Segreti John
Published: April 2008

We report data from an observational benchmarking study of adherence to recommended practices for insertion and maintenance of central venous catheters at a heterogeneous group of academic medical centers. These centers demonstrated a need for significant improvement in implementation and documentation of quality performance measures for the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections.
Lethal Activity of Nonthermal Plasma Sterilization Against Microorganisms
Authors: Venezia Richard A. , Orrico Michael , Houston Edward , Yin Shu-Min , Naumova Yelena Y.
Published: April 2008

Objective.

To determine the range and the mode of germicidal activity of sterilants generated by a nonthermal plasma sterilization system for microorganisms.

Methods.

Representative bacteria, spores, viruses, bacteriophages, and fungi were exposed to the plasma cycle and the residual viability was measured in vitro. To assess the mode of lethal injury,Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus atrophaeus,and bacteriophages were exposed to the plasma cycle, and the effects of the plasma-generated sterilants on the biological parameters were determined.

Results.

There were at least 4-6 log reductions in viability for all microorganisms after 10 minutes of exposure to the plasma cycle. Electron micrographs and studies of the inhibition of bacteriophage infectivity suggested that the primary injury is to the organisms' cell envelopes. The plasma cycle also denatured isolated bacterial proteins and inactivated bacteriophages, but it had no effect on isolated DNA and bacterial proteins within exposed bacteria.

Conclusion.

Nonthermal plasma, which is produced at atmospheric temperature and pressure, generates sterilants that kill high concentrations of microorganisms and inactivate viruses during a 10-minute exposure. The primary injury appears to be at the surface structures of the organisms. This suggests that nonthermal plasma has utility for sterilization of heat-sensitive medical materials and devices.
Controlled non‐heart beating organ donation: neither the whole solution nor a step too far
Authors: Murphy P. , Manara A. , Bell D. , Smith M.
Published: April 2008

While many intensive care clinicians in the UK continue to express significant concerns regarding controlled non‐heart beating organ donation, others are involved in established programmes that make an increasingly significant contribution to the total number of cadaveric donations each year. The successful introduction of a controlled non‐heart beating organ donation programme requires local resolution of any apparent ethicolegal obstacles to the process, with specific attention needing to be given to three areas: the potential conflict of interest between decision making over futility and any subsequent approach regarding organ donation; a belief that it may be unlawful to adjust in any way an end of life care pathway in order to allow donation to take place, and, finally, an uncertainty over how soon after cardiac death organ retrieval can begin. It is proposed that recent changes in legislation provide, through an emphasis on patient autonomy and best interests, a solid ethicolegal foundation for donation after cardiac death.
A national survey of safe practice with epidural analgesia in obstetric units
Authors: Jones R. , Swales H. A. , Lyons G. R.
Published: April 2008

The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) identified practice improvements with regard to epidural injections and infusions and released a patient safety alert on 28th March 2007. Prior to this, the Obstetric Anaesthetists' Association had considered the draft document and wished to assess current compliance in UK obstetric units. A postal survey of consultant‐led obstetric anaesthetic units in the UK was performed in September 2006 to look at practice prior to the release of the safety alert. The response rate was 89%. Many units are already following the guidance from the NPSA but nearly one in four units have experience of wrong route drug errors related to confusion between systems for intravenous and regional drug administration.
The influence of changes in end‐tidal carbon dioxide upon the Bispectral Index*
Authors: Turnbull D. , Furlonger A. , Andrzejowski J.
Published: April 2008

Carbon dioxide is known to affect consciousness in animals and humans. We surmised that changes in end‐tidal carbon dioxide during anaesthesia might affect the Bispectral Index. Twenty‐four patients due to undergo surgery were anaesthetised with fentanyl and a propofol infusion. The Bispectral Index, pulse rate and blood pressure were recorded while end‐tidal carbon dioxide levels were changed. The patients acted as their own controls as they were subjected to high, normal and low levels of end‐tidal carbon dioxide (3–12 kPa) according to a randomised sequence. There were no changes in the Bispectral Index or haemodynamic variables resulting from manipulation of the end‐tidal carbon dioxide. At the level of hypnosis involved in this study, changes in end‐tidal carbon dioxide, within the range tested, do not result in changes in the Bispectral Index.
Techniques for emergency ventilation through a needle cricothyroidotomy
Authors: Bould M. D. , Bearfield P.
Published: April 2008

We examined the pressures produced by a construction intended for emergency ventilation through a needle cricothyroidotomy. This construction consisted of a standard hospital wall oxygen supply, flowmeter, oxygen tubing and a three‐way tap. We measured the flow achieved through a transtracheal catheter and compared the construction to a Manujet jet ventilator and to a Sanders injector. The construction performed similarly to the Manujet set at low pressures (0–100 kPa). To achieve similar pressures and flow to the Manujet set at pressures higher than 100 kPa required opening of the flowmeter beyond its calibrated range. The flow through the transtracheal catheter was almost three times higher when the flowmeters were fully opened than when they were opened to the 15 l.min−1 mark (44.5 vs 15.8 l.min−1, respectively; p < 0.0001). When the flowmeters were fully opened the pressure measured before the catheter was over four times higher than when they were only opened to the 15 l.min−1 mark (285.3 vs 66.4 kPa, respectively; p < 0.0001). This system of ventilation is inferior to a Manujet in terms of robustness and calibration throughout its range of pressures and flows, but seems appropriate for emergency use in the absence of a purpose‐made jet ventilator.
Caesarean section in a complicated case of central core disease
Authors: Foster R. N. , Boothroyd K. P.
Published: April 2008

We describe the anaesthetic management of a 21‐year‐old lady with central core disease for elective Caesarean section. Central core disease is characterised by muscle weakness, skeletal deformities and susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia. Total intravenous anaesthesia was used because of the combination of potential malignant hyperthermia, severe kyphoscoliosis and extensive spinal scarring. The authors believe there is no previous report of propofol and remifentanil being used in these circumstances. A short review of central core disease and its anaesthetic implications is provided.
A prospective observational study of ICU patient position and frequency of turning
Authors: Goldhill D. R. , Badacsonyi A. , Goldhill A. A. , Waldmann C.
Published: April 2008

Positioning and turning critically ill patients may be beneficial but there are little data on current practice. We prospectively recorded patient position every hour over two separate days in 40 British intensive care units and analysed 393 sets of observation. Five patients were prone at any time and 3.8% (day 1) and 5% (day 2) were on rotating beds. Patients were on their back for 46.1% of observations, turned left for 28.4% and right for 25.5%, and head up for 97.4%. A turn was defined as a change between on back, turned left or turned right. The average time (SD) between turns was 4.85 (3.3) h. There was no significant association between the average time between turns and age, weight, height, gender, respiratory diagnosis, intubated and ventilated, sedation score, day of week or nurse:patient ratio. There was a significant difference between hospitals in the frequency with which patients were turned.
Determinants of hospital costs associated with traumatic brain injury in England and Wales*
Authors: Morris S. , Ridley S. , Lecky F. E. , Munro V. , Christensen M. C.
Published: April 2008

Using data from the Trauma Audit Research Network, we investigated the costs of acute care in patients ≥ 18 years of age hospitalised for traumatic brain injury between January 2000 and December 2005 in England and Wales. Traumatic brain injury patients were defined and stratified using the Abbreviated Injury Scale. A total of 6484 traumatic brain injury patients were identified; 22.3% had an Abbreviated Injury Scale score of three, 38.0% of four and 39.7% of five. Median age (IQR) was 42 years (28–59) and 76.7% were men. Primary cause of injury was motor vehicle collisions (42.4%) followed by falls (38.0%). In total 23.7% of the patients died before discharge. Hospitalisation costs averaged £15 462 (SD £16 844). Costs varied significantly by age, Glasgow Coma Score, Injury Severity Score, coexisting injuries of the thorax, spine and lower limb, hospital mortality, availability of neurosurgical services, and specialty of attendants seen in the Accident and Emergency department.
Lightwand guided intubation in paediatric patients with a known difficult airway: a report of four cases
Authors: Xue F. S. , Yang Q. Y. , Liao X. , He N. , Liu H. P.
Published: April 2008

The anaesthetic management of children with craniofacial abnormalities often presents unique challenges because soft tissue and bony abnormities can affect the airway and influence airway management. We report four paediatric patients with predicted difficult airways due to craniofacial abnormalities. They all had a laryngeal view of Cormack–Lehane grade IV and were impossible to intubate using direct laryngoscopy. Fibreoptic intubation was also repeatedly attempted but was not successful. All the tracheal intubations were completed using a lightwand on the first attempt in less than 30 s. We consider that lightwand guided intubation technique may be a useful alternative approach to fibreoptic intubation technique in managing the difficult paediatric airway.
Assignment of 115 genes from HSA9 and HSA14 to SSC1q by RH mapping to generate a dense human–pig comparative map
Authors: Yasue H. , Kitajima M. , Tamada Y. , Rezaeian A. H. , Hiraiwa H. , Hayashi T. , Shimogiri T.
Published: April 2008

A large number of significant QTL for economically important traits including average daily gain have been located on SSC1q, which, as shown by chromosome painting, corresponds to four human chromosomes (HSA9, 14, 15 and 18). To provide a comprehensive comparative map for efficient selection of candidate genes, 81 and 34 genes localized on HSA9 and HSA14 respectively were mapped to SSC1q using a porcine 7000‐rad radiation hybrid panel (IMpRH). This study, together with the cytogenetic map (http://www2.toulouse.inra.fr/lgc/pig/cyto/genmar/htm/1GM.HTM), demonstrates that SSC1q2.1‐q2.13 corresponds to the region ranging from 44.6 to 63.2 Mb on HSA14q21.1‐q23.1, the region from 86.5 to 86.8 Mb on HSA15q24‐q25, the region from 0.9 to 27.2 Mb on HSA9p24.3‐p21, the region from 35.1 to 38.0 Mb on HSA9p13, the region from 70.3 to 79.3 Mb on HSA9q13‐q21 and the region from 96.4 to 140.0 Mb on HSA9q22.3‐q34. The conserved synteny between HSA9 and SSC1q is interrupted by at least six sites, and the synteny between HSA14 and SSC1q is interrupted by at least one site.
Association between SCN1A polymorphism and carbamazepine‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Abe Tomohide , Seo Takayuki , Ishitsu Takateru , Nakagawa Takehiro , Hori Masaharu , Nakagawa Kazuko
Published: April 2008

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• The SCN1A gene encodes the α subunit of the neuronal voltage‐gated sodium channel, which is a target for carbamazepine and other antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).

• Recent studies have demonstrated that a common polymorphism of SCN1A IVS5‐91 G > A was associated with carbamazepine and phenytoin use in daily practice.

• However, it has not been determined whether the polymorphism affects carbamazepine or other AED responsiveness.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• This study demonstrated a significant association between the SCN1A IVS5‐91 AA genotype and carbamazepine‐resistant epilepsy, while the AA genotype did not affect carbamazepine use.

AIMS

To establish whether the SCN1A IVS5‐91 G > A polymorphism of the SCN1A gene, which encodes the neuronal sodium channel α subunit, affects responsivenss to the antiepileptic drugs (AEDS) carbamazepine and/or phenytoin.

METHODS

SCN1A IVS5‐91 G > A polymorphism was genotyped in 228 Japanese epileptic patients treated with AEDs. The association between AED responsiveness and the polymorphism was estimated by logistic regression analysis, adjusting for clinical factors affecting the outcome of AED therapy.

RESULTS

The frequency of the AA genotype was significantly higher in carbamazepine‐resistant patients (odds ratio, 2.7; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.1, 7.1) and was insignificantly higher in AED‐resistant patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report demonstrating an association between the SCN1A polymorphism and carbamazepine‐resistant epilepsy.
Retraction: Fatty acid synthase is a novel therapeutic target in multiple myeloma
Authors: Okawa Yutaka , Hideshima Teru , Ikeda Hiroshi , Raje Noopur , Vallet Sonia , Kiziltepe Tanyel , Yasui Hiroshi , Enatsu Sotaro , Pozzi Samantha , Breitkreutz Iris , Cirstea Diana , Santo Loredana , Richardson Paul , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: April 2008

Okawa, Y., Hideshima, T., Ikeda, H., Raje, N., Vallet, S., Kiziltepe,T., Yasui, H., Enatsu, S., Pozzi, S., Breitkreutz, I., Cirstea, D., Santo, L.,Richardson, P. & Anderson, K.C. (2008) Fatty acid synthase is a novel therapeutic target in multiple myeloma. British Journal of Haematology, 141, 659–671.

The above article, published in the online issue, 141·5 on 7 May 2008 in Blackwell Synergy (http://www.blackwell‐synergy.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the Journal Editor‐in‐Chief and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Finbarr Cotter

Editor‐in‐Chief

British Journal of Haematology

This study investigated the biological significance of the inhibition of fatty acid synthase (FAS) in multiple myeloma (MM) using the small molecule inhibitor Cerulenin. Cerulenin triggered growth inhibition in both MM cell lines and MM patient cells, and overcame the survival and growth advantages conferred by interleukin‐6, insulin‐like growth factor‐1, and bone marrow stromal cells. It induced apoptosis in MM cell lines with only modest activation of caspase ‐8, ‐9, ‐3 and PARP; moreover, the pan‐caspase inhibitor Z‐VAD‐FMK did not inhibit Cerulenin‐induced apoptosis and cell death. In addition, treatment of MM cells with Cerulenin primarily up‐regulated apoptosis‐inducing factor/endonuclease G, mediators of caspase‐independent apoptosis. Importantly, Cerulenin induced endoplasmic reticulum stress response via up‐regulation of the Grp78/IRE1α/JNK pathway. Although the C‐Jun‐NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600215 blocked Cerulenin‐induced cytotoxicity, it did not inhibit apoptosis and caspase cleavage. Furthermore, Cerulenin showed synergistic cytotoxic effects with various agents including Bortezomib, Melphalan and Doxorubicin. Our results therefore indicate that inhibition of FAS by Cerulenin primarily triggered caspase‐independent apoptosis and JNK‐dependent cytotoxicity in MM cells. This report demonstrated that inhibition of FAS has anti‐tumour activity against MM cells, suggesting that it represents a novel therapeutic target in MM.
Aberrant adrenal sensitivity to vasopressin in adrenal tumours associated with subclinical or overt autonomous hypercortisolism: is this explained by an overexpression of vasopressin receptors?
Authors: Joubert Michael , Louiset Estelle , Rego Jean‐Luc Do , Contesse Vincent , Kong Ling Chun , Benhaim Annie , Mittre Hervé , Lefebvre Hervé , Reznik Yves ,   for the REHOS Study Group
Published: April 2008

Objective  Abnormal responsiveness to arginine vasopressin (AVP) was previously observed in cortisol‐producing adrenocortical tumours but the mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect of AVP on cortisol secretion from adrenocortical tumours compared to normal human adrenal gland.

Design  A multicentre study based on pharmacological, molecular and immunohistochemical experiments performed in adenomatous and normal adrenal tissues.

Patients  Twenty patients with adrenocortical adenomas and subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCCS) or Cushing's syndrome (CS) were compared to six control normal subjects.

Measurements  In vivo and in vitro cortisol response to vasopressin, vasopressin receptor subtype mRNA measurement by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), immunohistochemical localization of AVP and its V1a receptor in tumour and normal adrenal tissues.

Results  Terlipressin in vivo enhanced cortisol plasma levels in 17/20 SCCS and 3/6 CS but in none of the control subjects. In vitro cortisol response to AVP was observed in nine tumours studied, with enhanced efficacy and/or potency of AVP in three SCCS tumours compared to normal tissues. AVP receptor subtype mRNA levels were similar in SCCS, CS cells and normal adrenal cells. Some SCCS tumour steroidogenic cells showed AVP and V1a receptor immunoreactivity.

Conclusions  SCCS and CS adrenocortical tumours often exhibit in vivo and in vitro hyper‐responsiveness to AVP, which is not related to vasopressin receptor overexpression, but may be explained by more efficient coupling pathways or by the indirect action of AVP through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism.