bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced photovoltaic response of organic solar cell by singlet-to-triplet exciton conversion
Authors: Yang Chia-Ming , Wu Chi-Hui , Liao Hua-Hsin , Lai Kuei-Yuan , Cheng Hong-Ping , Horng Sheng-Fu , Meng Hsin-Fei , Shy Jow-Tsong
Published: March 2007

Ir complex was doped to conjugated polymers, and the photoinduced absorption of triplet excitons in host materials was examined. A greatly enhanced intersystem crossing rate was observed, despite the decrease in triplet exciton lifetime. The authors find that the steady-state triplet exciton population in host polymer would increase by an order of magnitude. Conjugated polymer/colloidal CdSe nanocrystal hybrid solar cells were fabricated and the effect of Ir-complex doping on photovoltaic response was studied. It was found that due to the enhanced singlet-to-triplet conversion, greatly enhanced photovoltaic response of these hybrid organic solar cells was observed. The results suggest that triplet solar cells may be achieved by doping conventional photovoltaic materials with transition-metal complexes.
Direct comparison of optical characteristics of InGaN-based laser diode structures grown on pendeo epitaxial GaN and sapphire substrates
Authors: Hwang J. S. , Gokarna A. , Cho Yong-Hoon , Son J. K. , Lee S. N. , Sakong T. , Paek H. S. , Nam O. H. , Park Y.
Published: March 2007

Direct comparison of optical properties and carrier dynamics of InGaN multiple quantum well (MQW) laser diode structures grown on pendeo epitaxial (PE)-GaN and sapphire substrates is reported. A strong increase in quantum efficiency and a dramatic reduction in stimulated emission threshold are observed for InGaN MQWs on PE-GaN substrates as compared to MQWs on sapphire substrates. Based on temperature-dependent time-resolved optical analysis, the authors find that a significant increase in nonradiative lifetime due to suppressed dislocation density plays an important role in enhancing optical properties of InGaN MQWs grown on PE-GaN substrates, resulting in radiative-process dominant emission even at room temperature.
Temperature-dependent study of n-ZnO∕p-GaN diodes
Authors: Hsueh Kuang-Po , Huang Shou-Chien , Li Ching-Tai , Hsin Yue-Ming , Sheu Jinn-Kong , Lai Wei-Chih , Tun Chun-Ju
Published: March 2007

This work investigates the temperature dependence of the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of n-ZnO∕p-GaN junction diodes. The n-ZnO films were deposited on top of the p-GaN by dc sputtering with subsequent annealings at 500, 600, 700, and 800°C for 60s. The Hall measurement and the x-ray diffraction pattern are measured to study the n-ZnO films. The temperature sensitivity coefficients of the I-V characterizations are obtained by different substrate temperatures (25, 50, 100, and 150°C) and the extracted values are 2.10, 1.93, 3.22, and 1.36mV∕°C in the forward bias and 8.7, 8.0, 4.6, and 2.3mV∕°C in the reverse bias, respectively. The fabricated n-ZnO∕p-GaN diode with ZnO annealing temperatures at 800°C demonstrates the lowest temperature dependence.
Photoluminescence and built-in electric field in ZnO∕Mg0.1Zn0.9O quantum wells
Authors: Zhang B. P. , Liu B. L. , Yu J. Z. , Wang Q. M. , Liu C. Y. , Liu Y. C. , Segawa Y.
Published: March 2007

Photoluminescence study of ZnO∕Mg0.1Zn0.9O quantum wells with graded well width (Lw) was carried out at 4.2K. The emission evolution from quantum confinement regime to quantum-confined Stark regime was observed clearly. For large Lw, the emission splits into two peaks which are attributed to the emissions of ZnO band edge and separately localized carriers, respectively. The internal electric field in the well layer was estimated to be ∼0.3MV∕cm, being similar to previous reports. The results are useful in designing ZnO QW based optoelectronic devices.
Analysis of soft cantilevers as force transducers
Authors: Xiang Yu , LaVan David A.
Published: March 2007

High density arrays of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) cantilevers to measure basolateral cell forces offer new insight into cell mechanics and motility, but the analysis of the force from displacement data often violates simplifications in the deformation theories. Theoretical and numerical solutions for PDMS cantilever deflection are presented, incorporating both shear strain and large-deflection theory. Classical large-deflection theory was found to be appropriate for PDMS cantilevers with L∕D of 10 or higher, but numerical solutions of large deformation that also incorporate shear strain were necessary when L∕D was smaller than 10.
Simulation of high-energy proton production by fast magnetosonic shock waves in pinched plasma discharges
Authors: Mizuguchi Yusuke , Sakai Jun-Ichi , Yousefi Hamid Reza , Haruki Takayuki , Masugata Katsumi
Published: March 2007

High-energy particles of a few hundred keV for electrons and up to MeV for ions were observed in a plasma focus device. Haruki et al. [Phys. Plasmas 13, 082106–1 (2006)] studied the mechanism of high-energy particle production in pinched plasma discharges by use of a 3D relativistic and fully electromagnetic particle-in-cell code. It was found that the pinched current is unstable against a sausage instability, and then becomes unstable against a kink instability. As a result high-energy electrons were observed, but protons with MeV energies were not observed. In this paper the same pinch dynamics as Haruki and co-workers is investigated, focusing on the shock formation and the shock acceleration during the pinched current. It is found that a fast magnetosonic shock wave is produced during the pinching phase which, after the maximum pinch occurs, is strongly enhanced and propagates outwards. Some protons trapped in the electrostatic potential produced near the shock front can be accelerated to a few MeV by the surfatron acceleration mechanism. It is also found that the protons accelerated along the pinched axis have a ring-shaped angular distribution that is observed from numerous experiments.
Circular Couette cell for two-dimensional fluid dynamics experiments
Authors: Fontana P. W. , Kearney-Fischer M. , Rogers S. , Ulmen J. V. , Windell S.
Published: March 2007

A novel experiment to investigate fluid dynamics in quasi-two-dimensional flows has been built. A soap film is suspended horizontally in an annular channel with a rotating outer boundary, providing mean flow shear, and a vortex array is forced electromagnetically. The experiment will investigate sheared flow stability and the effect of mean flow shear on local vorticity and coherent structures. Particle image velocimetry measurements demonstrate the production of mean flow shear and induced vortices.
Fermi energy pinning at the surface of high mobility In0.53Ga0.47As∕In0.52Al0.48As modulation doped field effect transistor structures
Authors: Skuras E. , Stanley C. R.
Published: March 2007

Fermi level pinning at the surface of the undoped In0.52Al0.48As Schottky layer in high mobility In0.53Ga0.47As∕In0.52Al0.48As modulation doped field effect transistor structures has been studied. The electron subband densities for samples prepared with different Schottky layer thicknesses have been deduced from fast Fourier transform analyses of 1.5K Shubnikov-de Haas data. These results have been compared with densities calculated self-consistently using the free surface potential ΦS as the only fitting parameter. Good agreement between theory and experiment is achieved for a surface Fermi energy pinned 0.65±0.05eV below the In0.52Al0.48As Γ-conduction band minimum.
Self-breaking in planar few-atom Au constrictions for nanometer-spaced electrodes
Authors: O’Neill K. , Osorio E. A. , van der Zant H. S. J.
Published: March 2007

The authors present results on electromigrated Au nanojunctions broken near the conductance quantum of 77.5μS. At room temperature it is found that wires, initially narrowed by an actively-controlled electromigration technique down to a few conductance quanta, continue to narrow after removing the applied voltage. Separate electrodes form as mobile gold atoms continuously reconfigure the constriction. They find, from results obtained on over 300 samples, no evidence for gold cluster formation in junctions broken without an applied voltage, implying that gold clusters may be avoided by using this self-breaking technique.
Local force gradients on Si(111) during simultaneous scanning tunneling/atomic force microscopy
Authors: Özer H. Özgür , O’Brien Simon J. , Pethica John B.
Published: March 2007

The authors report simultaneous scanning tunneling and force imaging of Si(111) 7×7 with sub-angstrom oscillation amplitudes. Both constant height and constant current scans with tungsten tips/levers always showed larger attractive stiffness over corner holes than over adatoms, the opposite of theoretical expectations. Constant height scans show that this cannot be explained by interaction of tip motion with long range forces. Silicon levers, however, sometimes exhibited inversions of force contrast following local tip changes. The authors suggest that there may be charge variations between atomic sites on the surface, which produce electrostatic tip forces additional to the covalent forces usually regarded as dominant.
Electronic switching device based on gate-controlled conductivity anisotropy
Authors: Bierwagen O. , Masselink W. T.
Published: March 2007

A five-terminal electronic switching device based on gate-controlled transport anisotropy is proposed. By means of the gate voltage, two output voltages can be contrariwise adjusted to values between the two input voltages, yielding a possible logic application as an exchange gate. Nanostructures, in the form of modulation-doped, self-organized InAs quantum wires embedded in InP are investigated and shown to be a candidate for implementation of this device.
Deposition of In2S3 on Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 thin film solar cell absorbers by spray ion layer gas reaction: Evidence of strong interfacial diffusion
Authors: Bär M. , Allsop N. , Lauermann I. , Fischer Ch.-H.
Published: March 2007

Recently, Cd-free Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2-based “CIGSSe” thin film solar cells with a nominal In2S3 buffer layer deposited by the spray ion layer gas reaction technique resulted in photovoltaic performances comparable to that of CdS buffered references. In the past it was argued that diffusion processes across the In2S3∕CIGSSe interface play a significant role for the device quality. Investigating the interface formation by using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the authors were able to confirm a strong interfacial diffusion involving Cu and Na from the CIGSSe.
Real-time optical monitoring of thin film growth by in situ pyrometry through multiple layers and effective media approximation modeling
Authors: Bénédic F. , Bruno P. , Pigeat Ph.
Published: March 2007

A model combining multiple layer description and effective media approximation is developed for pyrometry in the case of thin film synthesis, in order to estimate the film property evolution along its thickness during the growth process in real time. The model is used to investigate optical properties of polycrystalline diamond film prepared by H2∕CH4∕N2 microwave plasma. It is shown that in the presence of nitrogen, the growth is strongly nonhomogeneous. The deposit, initially composed of large amounts of void and nondiamond phases, evolves rapidly towards highest quality dense film where the diamond phase is predominant.
Large-area two-dimensional photonic crystals of metallic nanocylinders based on colloidal gold nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Xinping , Sun Baoquan , Guo Hongcang , Tetreault Nicolas , Giessen Harald , Friend Richard H.
Published: March 2007

We report on the fabrication of two-dimensional periodic arrays of gold nanocylinders with an aspect ratio larger than 2 using solution-processible gold nanoparticles. We utilize the large surface energy of the melted gold in an annealing process at 260°C to confine the gold nanoparticles into the nanoholes consisting the mask, on which the colloidal gold nanoparticles are spin coated, producing a two-dimensional square lattice of gold nanocylinders. The height of the nanocylinders is larger than 200nm above an indium-tin-oxide waveguide layer and their diameter is about 100nm. Optical extinction spectrum measurements show excellent particle plasmon resonances of the nanocylinders.
Current-induced magnetoresistance oscillations in two-dimensional electron systems
Authors: Lei X. L.
Published: March 2007

Electric current-induced magnetoresistance oscillations recently discovered in two-dimensional electron systems are analyzed using a microscopic scheme for nonlinear magnetotransport direct controlled by the current. The magnetoresistance oscillations are shown to result from drift-motion assisted electron scatterings between Landau levels. The theoretical predictions not only reproduce all the main features observed in the experiments but also disclose other details of the phenomenon.
Epitaxial growth of manganese silicide nanowires on Si(111)-7×7 surfaces
Authors: Zou Z.-Q. , Wang H. , Wang D. , Wang Q.-K. , Mao J.-J. , Kong X.-Y.
Published: March 2007

Reactive epitaxial growth of manganese silicide on a Si(111)-7×7 surface at low coverage is studied using scanning tunneling microscopy. Besides tabular and three-dimensional islands observed previously on the Mn∕Si system, Mn silicide is found to form nanowires (NWs) on the Si(111)-7×7 surface at temperatures above ∼500°C. The NWs oriented along [101¯], [011¯], and [11¯0], three equivalent directions, with equal probability. Well-ordered atomic arrangement observed on an ultrafine NW indicates that the NWs are crystalline. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy measurements show that the NWs exhibit a semiconducting character with a band gap of ∼0.8eV, which is consistent with that of bulk MnSi1.7.
Plasma ionization through wave-particle interaction in a capacitively coupled radio-frequency discharge
Authors: O’Connell D. , Gans T. , Vender D. , Czarnetzki U. , Boswell R.
Published: March 2007

Phase resolved optical emission spectroscopy, with high temporal resolution, shows that wave-particle interactions play a fundamental role in sustaining capacitively coupled rf plasmas. The measurements are in excellent agreement with a simple particle-in-cell simulation. Excitation and ionization mechanisms are dominated by beam-like electrons, energized through the advancing and retreating electric fields of the rf sheath. The associated large-amplitude electron waves, driven by a form of two-stream instability, result in power dissipation through electron trapping and phase mixing.
On the latent heat of high-temperature spin reorientation transitions
Authors: Kuz’min Michael D. , Richter Manuel
Published: March 2007

If a 3d-4f magnet experiences a spin reorientation at a high temperature, it proceeds in an abrupt fashion, as a first-order phase transition, and is accompanied by release or absorption of heat. It is demonstrated that this latent heat amounts to two times the anisotropy constant of the 3d sublattice. This prediction is corroborated by the available experimental data. The same approach provides an estimate for the accompanying entropy change, which suggests that spin reorientation transitions cannot compete in this respect with ferromagnetism-paramagnetism or ferro-magnetism-antiferromagnetism transitions.
Simultaneous amino acid substitutions at antigenic sites drive influenza A hemagglutinin evolution
Authors: Shih Arthur Chun-Chieh , Hsiao Tzu-Chang , Ho Mei-Shang , Li Wen-Hsiung
Published: March 2007

The HA1 domain of HA, the major antigenic protein of influenza A viruses, contains all of the antigenic sites of HA and is under continual immune-driven selection. To resolve controversies on whether only a few or many residue sites of HA1 have undergone positive selection, whether positive selection at HA1 is continual or punctuated, and whether antigenic change is punctuated, we introduce an approach to analyze 2,248 HA1 sequences collected from 1968 to 2005. We identify 95 substitutions at 63 sites from 1968 to 2005 and show that each substitution occurred very rapidly. The rapid substitution and the fact that 57 of the 63 sites are antigenic sites indicate that hitchhiking plays a minor role and that most of these sites, many more than previously found, have undergone positive selection. Strikingly, 88 of the 95 substitutions occurred in groups, and multiple mutations at antigenic sites sped up the fixation process. Our results suggest that positive selection has been ongoing most of the time, not sporadic, and that multiple mutations at antigenic sites cumulatively enhance antigenic drift, indicating that antigenic change is less punctuated than recently proposed.
Avoiding manual removal of placenta: evaluation of intra‐umbilical injection of uterotonics using the Pipingas technique for management of adherent placenta
Authors: ROGERS M.S. , YUEN P.M. , WONG SHELL ,   LOCATION OF STUDY
Published: March 2007

Background. Manual removal of placenta is performed in 1–3% of cases, and whilst a well established and relatively safe procedure, it is not without complications, which include infection, hemorrhage, uterine rupture, and occasional maternal death. Methods. A three‐arm randomized controlled trial of 50 IU Syntocinon (in 30 ml N saline) versus 800 mcg misoprostol (in 30 ml N saline) versus 30 ml N saline alone (control), injected into the placental bed via the umbilical vein using the Pipingas method. A group sequential research model (triangular test: PEST4) was adopted to minimize the sample size, as retained placenta is a relatively uncommon condition. Results. No significant difference in the rate of manual removal was observed between the control and Syntocinon groups. On triggering the automatic stopping rule for this arm of the trial all subsequent cases recruited were allocated to receive either Syntocinon or misoprostol. After a total of 54 cases a significant reduction in manual removal of placenta was observed in the misoprostol group, triggering the automatic stopping rule and terminating the trial. Conclusion. Misoprostol (800 mcg) dissolved in 30 ml N saline and administered by intraumbilical injection using the Pipingas technique significantly reduces the need for manual removal for retained adherent placenta, whereas Syntocinon has similar effectiveness to injection of N saline alone.
Pregnancy outcome in patients with previous uterine rupture
Authors: USTA IHAB M. , HAMDI MOHAMAD A. , ABU MUSA ANTOINE A. , NASSAR ANWAR H.
Published: March 2007

Background. To review the outcome of subsequent pregnancies in conservatively managed cases of uterine rupture. Methods. Charts of patients with full thickness uterine rupture in the past 25 years were reviewed and information on subsequent pregnancies was extracted from maternal and neonatal charts. Results. Thirty‐seven patients with uterine rupture were identified; the uterus was scarred in 62.2%. Ruptures were repaired in 26 (70.3%). Twelve patients subsequently conceived (24 pregnancies), with recurrence in 8/24 (33.3%) pregnancies or 5/12 (41.7%) patients. Patients with recurrence had a shorter median interval from previous rupture (2 versus 5 years), a higher incidence of previous longitudinal ruptures (60.0% versus 0.0%), and the median gestational age at the preceding rupture was lower without reaching statistical significance (34 versus 38 weeks; p = 0.209). Conclusions. Longitudinal ruptures and short intervals between rupture and subsequent pregnancy predispose to recurrence of uterine rupture.
Parental Bonding and Suicidality in Adulthood
Authors: Heider Dirk , Bernert Sebastian , Matschinger Herbert , Angermeyer Matthias C. ,   the ESEMeD/MHEDEA 2000 investigators, Heider Dirk , Bernert Sebastian , Matschinger Herbert , Angermeyer Matthias C. ,   the ESEMeD/MHEDEA 2000 investigators, Haro Josep M. , Alonso Jordi
Published: March 2007

Objective: The short-term effect of an adverse parental child rearing style on suicidality in adolescence has been extensively discussed. Nevertheless, little is known about the long-term effect of adverse parental child rearing on lifetime suicidality in adulthood. So the present study aims to examine the relation between parental bonding on the one hand and suicidality in adulthood on the other.

Method: We used data from 7740 respondents of the European Study of Epidemiology of Mental Disorders project, a cross-sectional household survey carried out in six European countries. The data were assessed with the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview, a comprehensive, fully structured psychiatric diagnostic interview. Suicidality was categorized as follows: ‘no ideation’, ‘ideation’, ‘attempt’. Parental bonding was assessed by means of a three-factor (‘care’, ‘overprotection’, ‘authoritarianism’) short form of the Parental Bonding Instrument. Using a multinomial-logistic regression model to investigate the association between these two constructs, we also adjusted for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse/dependence and possible country effects.

Results: We found associations between low maternal and paternal care on the one hand and suicidality on the other. Country-specific differences proved negligible.

Conclusions: Prevention programs can help better equip parents in their child-rearing role to create a more caring parenting environment. This can be a protective factor for suicidality in adulthood. Nevertheless, more efforts are necessary to better describe the paths that lead from child-rearing behaviour to suicidality in adulthood.
Mortality Associated with Incident Mental Health Disorders After Stroke
Authors: Almeida Osvaldo P. , Xiao Jianguo
Published: March 2007

Objective: Sparse information is currently available about the incidence of the major psychiatric syndromes following a stroke and their long-term contribution to morbidity and mortality. This study was designed to determine: (1) the incidence of first ever mental health disorder in amongst stroke patients; (2) the 10-year mortality associated with incident post-stroke mental health disorders.

Methods: Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Entire Western Australian community. Participants: First-ever stroke in 1990. Subjects with a prior recorded history of any mental health disorder were excluded from the study. Main outcomes of interest: Incident mental health diagnoses and 10-year mortality.

Results: 1,129 hospital stroke contacts were recorded in 1990, with 21 people dying on the same day of contact. Between 1990-2002 36.6% of the survivors received a mental health diagnosis (6.1 per 1,000 person-years): alcohol-related disorders (16.2%), dementia (12.1%), delirium (7.6%), psychotic disorders (6.7%), and depression (5.5%). Mental health disorder onset was usually within 6 months of the stroke. Patients with an incident psychotic disorder were twice as likely to die during the subsequent 10 years as post-stroke controls with no mental health disorder (risk ratio = 2.03, 95%CI = 1.39-2.95). Being a widow (HR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.13-2.30) or having been born in ‘other countries’ as opposed to Australia (HR = 1.56, 95%CI = 1.15-2.11) was also associated with increased death hazard.

Conclusions: Approximately 1 in 3 patients develop a mental health disorder after stroke, although incidence estimates are relatively low. Post-stroke psychosis is associated with greater 10-year mortality, but the mechanisms underlying such an association are yet to be determined.
A review of eating disorders research in Mexico
Authors: Unikel Claudia , Bojorquez Ietza
Published: March 2007

The objective of this paper is to summarize research findings on eating disorders and the current state of the field in Mexico. Papers published in indexed journals and graduate dissertations were retrieved, using “eating disorders,” “anorexia nervosa,” “bulimia nervosa,” “body image,” “binge eating,” “restrained eating,” “weight and shape concern,” and “dieting” as keywords. These were combined with the Boolean operator “AND” with “Mexico” and “Latin America.” Findings are presented for epidemiology, the validity of assessment instruments, comorbidity, and risk factors. A national representative survey found a prevalence of 1.8% for bulimia nervosa, and no cases of anorexia nervosa. However, the lack of studies with confirmatory clinical interview and other national or regional representative samples makes it difficult to reach conclusions about the actual prevalence. A number of instruments for the detection of eating disorders and disordered eating have been validated for the Mexican population. The comorbidity of eating disorders in Mexico includes drug and alcohol abuse, obesity, and borderline personality disorder. Risk factors found included body weight and cultural pressure to be thin. Future lines of research should include epidemiological studies with representative samples and diagnosis confirmation, longitudinal studies, and the exploration of protective and risk factors specific to this population.
Usefulness of different imaging modalities in the assessment of scapular fractures caused by blunt trauma
Authors: Tadros A. M. A. , Lunsjo K. , Czechowski J. , Corr P. , Abu-Zidan F. M.
Published: March 2007

Purpose: To analyze the usefulness of chest and scapular trauma radiographs, axial computed tomography (CT), and two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) reconstruction CT in detecting fractures of the six anatomical regions of the scapula.

Material and Methods: Forty-four patients, with a median age (range) of 34 (16–60) years, with scapular fractures caused by blunt trauma were prospectively collected between January 2003 and December 2005. Their chest and scapula radiographs, and axial, 2D, and 3D CTs were reviewed blindly and independently by two observers. Each modality was compared with a gold standard to determine its diagnostic usefulness. Our gold standard was consensus reached by all authors together examining all modalities at the same time. We also compared 3D CTs reconstructed from chest and scapula axial views.

Results: Axial and 3D reconstruction tomographic studies were the only useful modalities in assessing fractures in all six anatomical scapular regions. Three-dimensional CTs reconstructed from chest and scapula axial views were equally sensitive and specific.

Conclusion: CT scanning with 3D reconstructions is the most useful imaging modality to detect and define the extent of scapular injury, and this can be done as part of a chest trauma computed tomography protocol.
Comparison of positron emission tomography and lymphangiography in the diagnosis of infradiaphragmatic hodgkin's disease
Authors: Valette F. , Querellou S. , Oudoux A. , Carlier T. , Dupas B. , Chatal J.-F. , Couturier O.
Published: March 2007

Purpose: To evaluate the respective roles of positron emission tomography using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET) and lymphangiography (LAG) in staging Hodgkin's disease (HD) patients with negative contrast-enhanced infradiaphragmatic computed tomography (CT).

Material and Methods: 28 patients underwent FDG-PET and LAG at initial staging. Concordant positive findings on both tests were regarded as actual HD locations and concordant negative findings as true negative. In case of discrepancy, the reference was biopsy or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results: Concordant results were obtained in 26 patients (24 negative, two positive). In two of the 24 negative patients, PET showed additional lesions in the spleen and one celiac lymph node (one patient), and in the right kidney and the right iliac crest (one patient). Discordant results were obtained in two patients. Both methods indicated infradiaphragmatic involvement in different locations in one patient. In the other, PET was falsely positive (PET done within 24 hours after a negative LAG), which was confirmed by biopsy (benign inflammatory, probably due to LAG medium).

Conclusion: FDG-PET and LAG gave comparable results, making invasive LAG unnecessary. Furthermore, LAG, when performed before PET, can be responsible for false-positive PET results.
Renal replacement lipomatosis: multidetector-row computed tomography findings in one case
Authors: Calisir C. , Can C. , Kebapci M.
Published: March 2007

Replacement lipomatosis of the kidney is the result of severe atrophy of the renal parenchyma often caused by chronic calculus disease with secondary marked benign proliferation of fibrofatty tissue replacing atrophied renal parenchyma. Different radiological modalities have been used to illustrate this entity, with magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, intravenous pyelogram, and computed tomography (CT) used most frequently. We report multidedector CT (MDCT) findings of replacement lipomatosis in a 50-year-old woman. We think that it accurately provides a complete one-step diagnostic workup and appropriate pre-surgical planning for patients for whom there is a suspicion of replacement lipomatosis.
Secretin-stimulated magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography of patients with unclear disease in the pancreaticobiliary tract
Authors: Hellund J. C. , Skattum J. , Buanes T. , Geitung J. T.
Published: March 2007

Purpose: To explore the usefulness of secretin-stimulated magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (S-MRCP) on different pathological entities in the pancreaticobiliary tract (PBT)

Material and Methods: Sixty-two patients with unclear disease in the PBT were examined with S-MRCP as the final radiological procedure. Nine groups of referral diagnoses were identified, and clinical outcome was evaluated.

Results: In five patients with suspected pancreatic duct injury after blunt abdominal trauma, a negative predictive value of 100% was found after a median of 3.5 months of follow-up. In 22 patients with residual pain after cholecystectomy, investigated for sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), delayed dilatation of the PD and pain were documented in four patients. Three of these were treated with endoscopic papillotomy (EPT), and no recurrences were found during an average of 13.6 months of follow-up. Five cases of pancreas divisum not previously seen were identified, and of 12 patients with suspected postoperative stenosis, five were successfully treated after being identified with S-MRCP. Useful information was obtained in most of the patients, i.e., findings not observed in previous radiological examinations or clarifying uncertain previous findings. Nine patients were referred to other non-radiological examinations, identifying that the origin of disease was outside the PBT.

Conclusion: S-MRCP has the potential to become the final part of diagnostic workup in difficult PBT diseases, but further investigation of usefulness regarding different referral reasons is mandatory.
Zopiclone misuse: an update from Dublin
Authors: BANNAN NOREEN , ROONEY SIOBHAN , O'CONNOR JOHN
Published: March 2007

The prevalence of zopiclone misuse in clients attending a methadone maintenance programme in Dublin through detection of its degradation product, 2‐amino‐5‐chloropyridine (ACP) on urinalysis is outlined. Urine samples from all 158 clients were tested for the presence of ACP, opiates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, alcohol and cannabis. Of the 37 (23%) clients who tested positive for ACP, 23 (62%) were interviewed. A profile of zopiclone misusers is outlined, including details of demographics, drug history, viral status, recent urinalysis results and opinions on zopiclone. Of the 14 (38%) clients who were not interviewed, information was obtained from their clinical casenotes and documented urinalysis results. The prevalence of zopiclone misuse was reported as 23%. Benzodiazepines were the most popular drug of misuse with zopiclone followed by heroin/opiates. Zopiclone is being misused by drug users in Dublin in the context of many other drugs. Prescribing of zopiclone should be restricted, especially among drug misusers.
Time‐limited buprenorphine replacement therapy for opioid dependence: 2‐year follow‐up outcomes in relation to programme completion and current agonist therapy status
Authors: KORNØR HEGE , WAAL HELGE , SANDVIK LEIV
Published: March 2007

Programme completion is predictive of post‐treatment abstinence and other improvements in persons with opioid dependence, while continued agonist treatment is associated with better outcomes than no agonist treatment. This study aimed to assess relationships between follow‐up outcomes of a 9‐month buprenorphine programme, completion and current agonist therapy status. Sixty‐eight of 75 opioid‐dependent former participants were assessed at study entry and 24 months thereafter. Outcome measures were opioid abstinence, substance use and psychosocial performance. Group comparisons were made between buprenorphine programme completers (n = 38) and non‐completers (n = 30), and between participants who were currently in agonist therapy (n = 37) and those who were not. Performance at follow‐up was compared to that at study entry. Nine people were abstinent from all opioids at follow‐up. Completers and non‐completers were similar in follow‐up performance and patterns of change, while participants' current agonist therapy status was related to both substance use and psychosocial outcomes. Reductions in street opioid use and injecting were seen regardless of completion and agonist therapy status. Retaining patients in agonist replacement therapy over time is more likely than completion of a time‐limited programme to influence long‐term outcomes. Time‐limited buprenorphine replacement therapy appears to be inappropriate for persons with opioid dependence
Six Months in Aceh
Authors: Hugo Malcolm
Published: March 2007

Objective: Brief case histories are presented of people with schizophrenia treated in the Indonesian province of Aceh, where the author worked as a clinical psychologist for Medecines Sans Frontieres in 2005. Aceh was severely affected by the December 2004 tsunami, with significant destruction and loss of life.

Conclusions: The case studies highlight the needs of patients and the current opportunities to establish more effective mental health services. The role of culture as a significant consideration and a possible barrier to accessing care is also discussed.
Cochrane's Problem: Psychoanalysis and Anejaculation
Authors: Macleod Sandy
Published: March 2007

Objective: The stimulus inciting Archie Cochrane's interest in scientific medicine was his own ill health and the inability of psychoanalysis to cure his problem of sexual dysfunction. The aetiology and modern management of anejaculation will be considered.

Conclusions: The treatment undertaken by Cochrane failed because his condition was organic. Evidence-based medicine was founded upon Cochrane's critical evaluation of his own psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Socially Sanctioned Coercion Mechanisms for Addiction Treatment
Authors: Nace Edgar P. , Birkmayer Florian , Sullivan Maria A. , Galanter Marc , Fromson John A. , Frances Richard J. , Levin Frances R. , Lewis Collins , Suchinsky Richard T. , Tamerin John S. , Westermeyer Joseph
Published: March 2007

Coercion as a strategy for treatment of addiction is an effective but often negatively perceived approach. The authors review current policies for involuntary commitments and explore coercive dimensions of treating alcohol and drug dependence in the workplace, sports, and through professional licensure. Gender‐specific issues in coercion are considered, including evidence for improved treatment retention among pregnant and parenting women coerced via the criminal justice system. Social security disability benefits represent an area where an opportunity for constructive coercion was missed in the treatment of primary or comorbid substance use disorders. The availability of third‐party funding for the voluntary treatment of individuals with substance use disorders has decreased. This unmet need, coupled with the evidence for positive clinical outcomes, highlights the call for implementing socially sanctioned mechanisms of coercion.
Safety Assessment of Castoreum Extract as a Food Ingredient
Authors: Burdock G. A.
Published: March 2007

Castoreum extract (CAS NO. 8023–83–4; FEMA NO. 2261) is a natural product prepared by direct hot-alcohol extraction of castoreum, the dried and macerated castor sac scent glands (and their secretions) from the male or female beaver. It has been used extensively in perfumery and has been added to food as a flavor ingredient for at least 80 years. Both the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regard castoreum extract as generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Acute toxicity studies in animals indicate that castoreum extract is nontoxic by both oral and dermal routes of administration and is not irritating or phototoxic to skin. Skin sensitization has not been observed in human subject tests. Castoreum extract possesses weak antibacterial activity. A long historical use of castoreum extract as a flavoring and fragrance ingredient has resulted in no reports of human adverse reactions. On the basis of this information, low-level, long-term exposure to castoreum extract does not pose a health risk. The objective of this review is to evaluate the safety-in-use of castoreum extract as a food ingredient.
Differential Effect of 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene on Human and Mouse CYP1B1 from Livers of Castrated Transgenic Mice
Authors: Hwang Dae Y. , Chae Kab R. , Kim Chuel K. , Kim Byoung G. , Shim Sun B. , Jee Seung W. , Lee Su H. , Sin Ji S. , Jang Mee K. , Seo Su J. , Kim Min S. , Cho Jung S. , Sheen Yhun Y. , Choi Soo Y. , Kim Yong K.
Published: March 2007

Humanized transgenic mice coexpressing tetracycline-controlled transactivator ( tTA) and human cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) ( hCYP1B1) have been created by this group. The aims of this study was to determine if 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) functions as testosterone or doxycycline in its ability to induce or reduce expression of hCYP1B1 or endogenous mouse CYP1B1 (mCYP1B1). This was tested in the livers by treating castrated transgenic males and hCYP1B1/luciferase-transfected cells with DMBA. Herein, DMBA-treated group exhibited (i) gradual reduction of hCYP1B1 expression at the transcript, protein, and activity levels but gradually induced its transcript level during DMBA release; (ii) gradual reduction of hCYP1B1 at the transcript and protein levels, as in the case of doxycycline or testosterone; (iii) gradual induction of mCYP1B1 expression at the transcript and protein levels but gradually reduced its transcript level during DMBA release. In parallel, DMBA-treated transfected cells exhibited gradual increase in luciferase activity in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Thus, castrated transgenic males or in vitro system could be useful as models for the detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or environmental toxicants by measuring either hCYP1B1 or mCYP1B1 expressions.
E-Cadherin Homophilic Ligation Inhibits Cell Growth and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Independently of Other Cell Interactions
Authors: Perrais Michaël , Chen Xiao , Perez-Moreno Mirna , Gumbiner Barry M.
Published: March 2007

E-cadherin function leads to the density-dependent contact inhibition of cell growth. Because cadherins control the overall state of cell contact, cytoskeletal organization, and the establishment of many other kinds of cell interactions, it remains unknown whether E-cadherin directly transduces growth inhibitory signals. To address this question, we have selectively formed E-cadherin homophilic bonds at the cell surface of isolated epithelial cells by using functionally active recombinant E-cadherin protein attached to microspheres. We find that E-cadherin ligation alone reduces the frequency of cells entering the S phase, demonstrating that E-cadherin ligation directly transduces growth inhibitory signals. E-cadherin binding to β-catenin is required for cell growth inhibition, but β-catenin/T-cell factor transcriptional activity is not involved in growth inhibition resulting from homophilic binding. Neither E-cadherin binding to p120-catenin nor β-catenin binding to α-catenin, and thereby the actin cytoskeleton, is required for growth inhibition. E-cadherin ligation also inhibits epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor-mediated growth signaling by a β-catenin–dependent mechanism. It does not affect EGF receptor autophosphorylation or activation of ERK, but it inhibits transphosphorylation of Tyr845 and activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 5. Thus, E-cadherin homophilic binding independent of other cell contacts directly transduces growth inhibition by a β-catenin–dependent mechanism that inhibits selective signaling functions of growth factor receptors.
Novelsfi1Alleles Uncover Additional Functions for Sfi1p in Bipolar Spindle Assembly and Function
Authors: Anderson Victoria E. , Prudden John , Prochnik Simon , Giddings Thomas H. , Hardwick Kevin G.
Published: March 2007

A variety of spindle and kinetochore defects have been shown to induce a mitotic delay through activation of the spindle checkpoint. With the aim of identifying novel mitotic defects we carried out a mad1 synthetic lethal screen in budding yeast. In this screen, four novel alleles of sfi1 were isolated. SFI1 is an essential gene, previously identified through its interaction with centrin/CDC31 and shown to be required for spindle pole body (SPB) duplication. The new mutations were all found in the C-terminal domain of Sfi1p, which has no known function, but it is well conserved among budding yeasts. Analysis of the novel sfi1 mutants, through a combination of light and electron microscopy, revealed duplicated SPBs <0.3 μm apart. Importantly, these SPBs have completed duplication, but they are not separated, suggesting a possible defect in splitting of the bridge. We discuss possible roles for Sfi1p in this step in bipolar spindle assembly.
A fast and flexible approach to oligonucleotide probe design for genomes and gene families
Authors: Feng Shengzhong , Tillier Elisabeth R.M.
Published: March 2007

Motivation: With hundreds of completely sequenced microbial genomes available, and advancements in DNA microarray technology, the detection of genes in microbial communities consisting of hundreds of thousands of sequences may be possible. The existing strategies developed for DNA probe design, geared toward identifying specific sequences, are not suitable due to the lack of coverage, flexibility and efficiency necessary for applications in metagenomics.

Methods: ProDesign is a tool developed for the selection of oligonucleotide probes to detect members of gene families present in environmental samples. Gene family-specific probe sequences are generated based on specific and shared words, which are found with the spaced seed hashing algorithm. To detect more sequences, those sharing some common words are re-clustered into new families, then probes specific for the new families are generated.

Results: The program is very flexible in that it can be used for designing probes for detecting many genes families simultaneously and specifically in one or more genomes. Neither the length nor the melting temperature of the probes needs to be predefined. We have found that ProDesign provides more flexibility, coverage and speed than other software programs used in the selection of probes for genomic and gene family arrays.

Availability: ProDesign is licensed free of charge to academic users. ProDesign and Supplementary Material can be obtained by contacting the authors. A web server for ProDesign is available at http://www.uhnresearch.ca/labs/tillier/ProDesign/ProDesign.html

Contact:  e.tillier@utoronto.ca or fsz@ncic.ac.cn

Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Use of Recombinant Factor VIIa During Excision of Vascular Anomalies
Authors: Buckmiller Lisa M. , Richter Gresham T. , Waner Milton , Suen James Y.
Published: March 2007

Background: The surgical excision of vascular anomalies is often accompanied with significant perioperative bleeding. Novel hemostatic agents, including recombinant factor VIIa (rVIIa), have been shown to reduce bleeding in hemophilia and trauma patients along with decreasing blood loss during various surgical procedures. The role of rVIIa during excision of vascular anomalies has not been examined.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients from 2001 to 2003 who received perioperative rVIIa during excision of vascular anomalies at one institution.

Results: Nine patients were identified who received perioperative rVIIa during removal of their vascular anomalies (7 venous malformations, 1 lymphatic‐venous malformation, 1 arteriovenous malformation). All patients received at least one dose of rVIIa during the perioperative period (2/9 received 2 doses). An accurate account of hourly blood loss was reported, and could be graphed, in three patients. These patients displayed significant reductions in hourly blood loss after the administration of rVIIa. These cases are detailed in this report. Surgeons reported subjective improvements in operative bleeding, efficiency, and operative time in six of six patients after the administration of rVIIa intraoperatively. Reduced postoperative bleeding was reported in two patients who received rVIIa for persistent drain output.

Conclusion: rVIIa may be an effective adjunct in improving the surgical efficiency and outcome of excised vascular anomalies.
Clinical Outcome After Surgery for 75 Patients With Parotid Sialadenitis
Authors: Patel Rajan S. , Low Tsu‐Hui H. , Gao Kan , O'Brien Christopher J.
Published: March 2007

Objective: To analyze the clinical outcome of patients treated surgically for chronic parotid sialadenitis.

Study Design: A retrospective cohort study of patients whose clinicopathologic information had been collected prospectively onto a dedicated head and neck database.

Methods: Between 1987 and 2006, a total of 75 patients had 78 parotidectomies, 17 superficial and 61 near‐total, to treat chronic parotid sialadenitis. The clinicopathologic data including treatment morbidity and outcome were analyzed.

Results: Temporary postoperative facial weakness occurred in 26 (33%) patients, and this was permanent, although partial, in one (1%) patient. There was no significant difference (P > .05) in the incidence of temporary facial nerve neuropraxia in the superficial (35%) and near‐total parotidectomy (33%) groups. Recurrence of symptoms was noted in two patients who had undergone near‐total parotidectomy and none of the patients who had undergone superficial parotidectomy. Chronic parotid sialadenitis was effectively treated in 97% of patients undergoing parotidectomy.

Conclusion: Near‐total parotidectomy is a safe and efficacious surgical treatment in the management of patients with debilitating severe chronic parotid sialadenitis.