bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shrinkage Reduction in Silica‐based Refractory Cores Infiltrated with Boehmite
Authors: Lequeux Nicolas , Richard Nathalie , Boch Philippe
Published: October 2005

Infiltration of silica‐based refractory cores with colloidal boehmite slurry has the effect of greatly reducing sintering shrinkage, as required for precision casting. Only 300 ppm of equivalent alumina is sufficient to decrease the shrinkage from RT to 1600°C more than three‐fold. Microstructural observations and XPS measures show that the silica grains are homogeneously coated with a reaction film which hinders viscous flow.
Preparation of Zinc Titanate Thin Films by Low‐Pressure Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Chen Zhong‐Xin , van der Eyden Joost , Koot Wouter , van den Berg Rob , Mechelen Jan van , Derking Anke
Published: October 2005

Homogeneous thin films of zinc titanate have been successfully prepared on Si(100) wafers by depositing a film of zinc and titanium oxides (ZnO‐TiO2) by low‐pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), followed by an annealing treatment. The precursors used for the deposition were diethylzinc (DEZ), tetraisopropoxide titanium (TPT), and water. By performing the deposition at temperatures between 140 and 350C, the stoichiometry of the as‐deposited films could be effectively controlled over Zn/Ti ratios between 0.5 and 2.5, which cover the composition of various zinc titanate phases identified in the literature. The as‐deposited ZnO‐TiO2 films are amorphous, and possess a fairly smooth surface. XPS and SIMS analysis showed that the composition of these films is uniform over the wafer as well as through the films bulk. An annealing treatment of the as‐deposited films at high temperature
Development of a High‐Temperature Deformation and Life Prediction Model for an Advanced Silicon Nitride Ceramic
Authors: Ding Jow‐Lian , Liu Kenneth C. , Brinkman Charles R.
Published: October 2005

A new deformation model inclusive of life prediction capability is introduced for describing general thermal‐mechanical loading behavior of an advanced structural ceramic at high temperatures. The model is formulated using the state variable approach. Two internal state variables, namely, “hardening” and “damage” variables, are employed to characterize the current state of the material. The model consists of three rate equations: a flow rule describes the creep rate as a function of the hardening state variable, applied stress, and temperature; and two evoluton rules describe the rate changes of the two internal variables. Material history is accounted for through the evolution of the internal variables. The model was characterized and evaluated based on experimental creep and creep rupture data of an advanced silicon nitride ceramic tested under constant and stepwise‐varied loading conditions. A unique strength of the model, not empowered in conventional approaches such as the Norton power‐law creep and Monkman‐Grant creep rupture relations, is demonstrated with the aid of the hardening variable, which enables the effcts of thermal annealing on subsequent creep and creep rupture behavior to be delineated.
Controlled Crystallization in Self‐Reinforced Silicon Nitride with Y2O3, SrO, and CaO: Crystallization Behavior
Authors: Hwang C. James , Susnitzky David W. , Newman Robert A. , Beaman Donald R. , Pyzik Aleksander J.
Published: October 2005

The controlled crystallization of the amorphous grain boundary phase has been examined in a series of self‐reinforced Si3N4 materials with added Y2O3, SrO, and CaO. The effects of time, temperature, atmosphere, glass content, glass chemistry, and matrix Si3N4 on the crystallization have been investigated. The stability of the crystallized product, the crystallization kinetics (T‐T‐T curve), and crystallization mechanisms have also been examined. Crystallization produced an oxynitroapatite containing Y, Sr, and Ca over a broad range of heat‐treatment conditions and glass compositions. The oxynitroapatite was compatible with Si3N4 and remained stable up to 1600°C. At low temperatures (<1350°C), the rate‐limiting crystallization mechanism was oxygen diffuson in the glass, and at higher temperatures (>1350°C) the rate‐limiting crystallization step changed to either the formation of new Si3N4 grains or solute diffusion in the glass.
Elastic and Creep Properties of Alumina‐Based Single Fibers
Authors: Lavaste Valérie , Besson Jacques , Berger Marie‐Hélène , Bunsell Anthony R.
Published: October 2005

Young's moduli, creep properties, and time to failure under steady loads were measured for two types of alumina‐based single fibers. Microstructural changes during deformation (grain growth and cavitation) have been analyzed. Experimental dispersion has been correlated to fiber diameter scatter. It has been shown that the fibers' behavior is similar to the behavior of bulk materials. Addition of zirconia particles slightly improved the creep and rupture properties of the materials.
Characterization of Particle Packing in an Injected Molded Green Body
Authors: Uematsu Keizo , Ito Hiroshige , Ohsaka Shigeru , Takahashi Hideo , Shinohara Nobuhiro , Okumiya Masataro
Published: October 2005

The particle packing structure of alumina green bodies made by injection molding has been examined with the liquid immersion technique coupled with a polarized light microscope. In this method, the specimen is made transparent by an immersion liquid and is examined in the transmission mode. Fine particles of near‐equiaxed alumina powder are found to be aligned, with their slightly elongated axis parallel to the flow direction of the molding process. The presence of very large alumina particles was also noted. Their concentraton was extremely low and can be detected only by the present method. The origins and significance of particle orientaton and large particles in ceramic processing are discussed.
Room‐Temperature Preparation of Highly Crystallized Luminescent SrWO4 Film by an Electrochemical Method
Authors: Cho Woo‐Seok , Yashima Masatomo , Kakihana Masato , Kudo Akihiko , Sakata Tadayoshi , Yoshimura Masahiro
Published: October 2005

Highly crystallized luminescent SrWO4 film has been prepared on a tungsten substrate in an alkaline solution containing strontlum ions by an electrochemical method using constant direct current of 1 mA/cm2 at room temperature (25°C). This film showed only a single blue emission at 461 nm with the excitation of 248 nm at liquid nitrogen temperature (‐ 196°C), strongly suggesting it consists of well‐crystallized defect‐free crystals.
Characterization of Yttrium Phosphate and a Yttrium Phosphate/Yttrium Aluminate Laminate
Authors: Kuo Dong‐Hau , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: October 2005

Single‐phase yttrium phosphate (YPO4) and a YPO4/yttrium aluminate (Y3Al5O12) laminate were studied. Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, Vickers hardness, and coefficient of thermal expansion of YPO4 sintered bodies were measured. YPO4 and Y3Al5O12 are chemically compatible and morphologically stable up to at least 1600°C. The fracture behaviour was studied by four‐point flexural testing on bars with ground or notched tensile surfaces, and by the indentation method. Noncatastrophic fracture could be seen in these specimens. In flexural testing, cracks could be bridged by YPO4 layers, followed by some interfacial debonding. Indentation responses also consistently showed some interfacial delamination in the YPO4/Y3Al5O12 laminate.
Fracture Resistance Behavior of Highly Anisotropic Silicon Nitride
Authors: Ohji Tatsuki , Hirao Kiyoshi , Kanzaki Shuzo
Published: October 2005

The R‐curve behavior was characterized by the Vickers indentation flaw technique, for highly anisotropic silicon nitride, a silicon nitride whose fibrous grains are highly aligned. The measured crack lengths ranged from 30 to 500 μm. The fracture resistance of a conventional self‐reinforced silicon nitride was determined for comparison using the same procedures. While in the self‐reinforced material several hundred micrometers of crack extension were required to obtain a high fracture toughness, the highly anisotropic material exhibited a high toughness from the beginning of the measured crack length range with little increase in the following range. It is suggested that the toughness of the highly anisotropic material steeply rises in a very short crack extension, which is advantageous in avoiding catastropic fractures.
Tensile Properties of Ceramic Matrix Fiber Composites
Authors: Shin Dong‐Woo , Auh Keun Ho , Tanaka Hidehiko
Published: October 2005

The mechanical properties of various 2D ceramic matrix fiber composites were characterized by tension testing, using the gripping and alignment techniques development in this work. The woven fabric composites used for the test had the basic combinations of Al2O3 Fabric/Al2O3, SiC fabric/SiC, and SiC minofilament uniweave fabric/SiC. Tension testing was performed with strain gauge and acoustic emission instrumentation to identify the first‐matrix cracking stress and assure a valid alignment. The peak tensile stresses of these laminate composites were about one‐third of the flexural strengts. The SiC monofilament uniweave fabric (14 vol%)/SiC composites showed a relatively high peak stress of 370 MPa in tension testing.
Piezoelectricity and Phase Transitions of the Mixed‐Layer Bismuth Titanate Niobate Bi7Ti4NbO21
Authors: Chu Fan , Damjanovic Dragan , Steiner Olivier , Setter Nava
Published: October 2005

The piezoelectiric properties of the bismuth titanate niobate Bi7Ti4NbO21 have been studied. The two phase transitions at 677° and 856°C are anlayzed based on the measured piezoelectric properties. It is shown that the Bi7Ti7NbO21 compound is a ferroelectric until 856°C. Bi3TiNbO9 clusters are shown to exist within Bi7Ti7NbO21 granis. These clusters may be responsible for the small additional piezoelectric activity of the studied material at temperatures higher than 856°C.
Preparation of Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Microtube by Electrochemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Mineshige Atsushi , Inaba Minoru , Ogumi Zempachi , Takahashi Tadayoshi , Kawagoe Tomoo , Tasaka Akimasa , Kikuchi Kenji
Published: October 2005

A microtube of yttria‐stabilized zirconia of ca. 100 μm diameter was prepared. An yttria‐stabilized zironia film was formed over a surface‐oxidized nickel wire with a diameter of 10 μm by electrochemical vapor deposition using zirconium tetrachloride and yttrium trichloride as metal sources, and nickel oxide as an oxygen source for the reaction. The YSZ‐coated wire was then immersed in aqueous 11.5 mol.L‐1 hydrochloric acid to dissolve the nickel and nickel oxide, and a microtube of 80 mol? yttria‐stabilized zirconia with a cubic crystal structure was obtained. The surface of the microtube was rough, but was pinhole‐free, from SEM observation. The thickness of the zirconia layer was about 3 μm.
Modeling human colon cancer in rodents using a food‐borne carcinogen, PhIP
Authors: Nakagama Hitoshi , Nakanishi Masako , Ochiai Masako
Published: October 2005

Animal models provide researchers with powerful tools to elucidate multistage mechanisms for cancer development and to gain further insights into the biological roles of various cancer‐related genes in in vivo situations. As for colon cancer models in rodents, Apc‐disrupted mice, including ApcMin, have been one of the most widely utilized animal models to dissect the molecular events implicated in the development of intestinal tumors. In rats, several models have been established using chemical carcinogens, including azoxymethane and 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo‐ [4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP). The former is a representative colon carcinogenic alkylating agent, and the latter a heterocyclic amine produced while cooking meat and fish, which people are exposed to in ordinary life. It is of great importance to note that PhIP preferentially targets the colon and prostate gland in male rats, and the mammary glands in female rats. Cancers in these three organs are common in Western countries and are currently increasing in Japan, where modern dietary habits are rapidly becoming more like those of the West. In the present article, the history of PhIP‐induced colon cancer models in rodents, activation/detoxification mechanisms of PhIP with regard to the formation of PhIP‐DNA adducts, mechanistic approaches to dissect the molecular events involved in the development of colon cancer by PhIP, and epidemiological evidence of human exposure to PhIP are overviewed. The induction of Paneth cell maturation/differentiation in PhIP‐induced colon cancers, genetic traits affecting susceptibility to colon carcinogenesis, and the biological relevance of colon cancer models in rodents to studying human colon carcinogenesis are also discussed. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 627 – 633)
Phase I pharmacokinetic and pharmacogenomic study of E7070 administered once every 21 days
Authors: Yamada Yasuhide , Yamamoto Noboru , Shimoyama Tatsu , Horiike Atsushi , Fujisaka Yasuhito , Takayama Kyoko , Sakamoto Terumi , Nishioka Yuki , Yasuda Sanae , Tamura Tomohide
Published: October 2005

E7070 is a novel sulfonamide anticancer agent that disrupts the G1/S phase of the cell cycle. The objectives of this phase I study of E7070 were to estismate the maximal tolerated dose (MTD), to determine the recommended dose for phase II, and to clarify the pharmacokinetic profile of E7070 and its relation to polymorphisms of CYP2C9 (*2, *3) and CYP2C19 (*2, *3) in Japanese patients. Patients received 1–2‐h i.v. infusions of E7070 (400, 600, 700, 800 or 900 mg/m2) on day 1 of a 21‐day cycle. Twenty‐one patients received between one and eight cycles of E7070. The dose‐limiting toxicities (DLT) comprised leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, elevation of aspartate aminotransferase, colitis, and ileus. The mean area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) for successive dose levels increased in a non‐dose‐proportional manner. Two patients were heterozygous for the CYP2C9 mutation. For CYP2C19, eight patients were wild type and the remainder had heterozygous (n = 8) or homozygous mutations (n = 5). Regarding the CYP2C19 genotype, the AUC of patients with mutant alleles were higher than those of patients with wild type at a dose of 600 mg/m2 or more. The severity of toxic effects, such as myelosuppression, seemed to depend on the AUC. No partial responses were observed. One patient treated at a dose of 700 mg/m2 experienced a maximum tumor volume reduction of 22.5%. The MTD was estimated to be 900 mg/m2. A dose of 800 mg/m2 is recommended for further phase II studies. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties of E7070 seemed to be influenced by CYP2C19 genotype. The observed safety profile and preliminary evidence of antitumor activity warrant further investigation of this drug in monotherapy or in combination chemotherapy. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 721 –728)
Ribosome binding proteins YhbH and YfiA have opposite functions during 100S formation in the stationary phase of Escherichia coli
Authors: Ueta Masami , Yoshida Hideji , Wada Chieko , Baba Tomoya , Mori Hirotada , Wada Akira
Published: October 2005

During the stationary phase of Escherichia coli growth, ribosomal structure changes drastically. Proteins RMF, YhbH, YfiA and SRA are expressed and bind to ribosome particles. In a process named ‘ribosomal hibernation,’ RMF binding induces the dimerization and subsequent inactivation of 70S ribosomes. Here, we examined the functions of YhbH and YfiA in the formation of 70S dimers using deletion mutants of YhbH and YfiA. The yfiA deletion mutant expressed YhbH and RMF in the stationary phase and formed a greater number of 100S particles than the wild‐type, showing that YhbH promotes and stabilizes 100S formation. In contrast, the yhbH deletion mutant expressed YfiA and RMF and produced no 70S dimers, suggesting that YfiA prevents 70S dimer formation. Thus, YhbH and YfiA have opposite functions in 70S dimer formation. YhbH and YfiA share 40% sequence homology, suggesting that their binding sites overlap and they compete for a region proximal to the P‐ and A‐sites on 30S subunits. In the yhbH and yfiA double deletion mutant, which expresses only RMF, 70S dimers were observed as 90S particles. Since 100S particles were seen in the yfiA deletion mutant containing RMF and YhbH, YhbH probably converts immature 90S ribosomes into mature 100S particles.
Nrf2‐deficient mice are highly susceptible to cigarette smoke‐induced emphysema
Authors: Iizuka Takashi , Ishii Yukio , Itoh Ken , Kiwamoto Takumi , Kimura Toru , Matsuno Yosuke , Morishima Yuko , Hegab Ahmed E. , Homma Shinsuke , Nomura Akihiro , Sakamoto Tohru , Shimura Masako , Yoshida Aruto , Yamamoto Masayuki , Sekizawa Kiyohisa
Published: October 2005

Inflammation, protease/anti‐protease imbalance and oxidative stress play important roles in the pathogenesis of emphysema. Nrf2 counteracts oxidative tissue damage and inflammation through transcriptional activation via the anti‐oxidant responsive element (ARE). To clarify the protective role of Nrf2 in the development of emphysema, the susceptibility of Nrf2‐knockout mice to cigarette smoke (CS)‐induced emphysema was examined. In Nrf2‐knockout mice, emphysema was first observed at 8 weeks and exacerbated by 16 weeks following CS‐exposure, whereas no pathological abnormalities were observed in wild‐type mice. Neutrophilic lung inflammation and permeability lung damage were significantly enhanced in Nrf2‐knockout mice 8 weeks after CS‐exposure. Importantly, neutrophil elastase activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids was markedly higher in Nrf2‐knockout mice preceding the pronounced neutrophil accumulation. The expression of secretory leukoprotease inhibitor, a potent inhibitor of neutrophil elastase, was inducible in wild‐type, but not in Nrf2‐knockout mice. This protease/anti‐protease imbalance, together with the lack of inducible expression of ARE‐regulated anti‐oxidant/anti‐inflammatory genes, may explain the predisposition of Nrf2‐knockout mice to neutrophilic inflammation. Indeed, specific activators of Nrf2 induced the expression of the SLPI gene in macrophages. These results indicate that Nrf2 protects against the development of emphysema by regulating not only the oxidant/anti‐oxidant balance, but also inflammation and the protease/anti‐protease balance.
Environmental warming increases invasion potential of alpine lake communities by imported species
Authors: Holzapfel Angela M. , Vinebrooke Rolf D.
Published: October 2005

Global warming increasingly pressures species to show adaptive migratory responses. We hypothesized that warming increases invasion of alpine lakes by low‐elevation montane zooplankton by suppressing native competitors and predators. This hypothesis was tested by conducting a two‐factor experiment, consisting of a warming treatment (13 vs. 20°C) crossed with three invasion levels (alpine only, alpine+montane, montane only), in growth chambers over a 28‐day period. Warming significantly reduced total consumer biomass owing to the decline of large alpine species, resulting in greater autotrophic abundance. Significant temperature‐invasion interactions occurred as warming suppressed alpine zooplankton, while stimulating certain imported species. Herbivorous invaders suppressed functionally similar alpine species while larger native omnivores reduced invasion by smaller taxa. Warming did not affect total invader biomass because imported species thrived under ambient and warmed alpine conditions. Our findings suggest that the adaptability of remote alpine lake communities to global warming is limited by species dispersal from lower valleys, or possibly nearby warmer alpine ponds.
Orientational disruption of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lep., Tortricidae), by concentrated formulations of microencapsulated pheromone in flight tunnel assays
Authors: Stelinski L. L. , Gut L. J. , Ketner K. C. , Miller J. R.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The effects of two formulations of microencapsulated pheromone (CheckMate CM‐F), containing 14.3% (E,E)‐8,10‐dodecadien‐1‐ol (codlemone), on the behaviour of the male codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), were evaluated in a flight tunnel after several periods of formulation ageing. The two treatments of CheckMate CM‐F evaluated consisted of the label‐recommended field rate of 50 g active ingredient (a.i.)/ha diluted in: (1) a standard 1000 l of water (low concentration 0.05 g/l), and (2) a low volume of 100 l of water (high concentration 0.5 g/l). The low‐concentration treatment was formulated by diluting 0.071 ml of CheckMate CM‐F in 500 ml of water and the high‐concentration treatment contained 0.71 ml of CheckMate CM‐F in 500 ml of water. Wax‐paper strips (2.1 × 20 cm) were treated at 0.06 ml of solution/cm2. The mean (±SE) number of CheckMate CM‐F microcapsules adhering to treated wax‐paper strips in the high‐concentration treatment (398 ± 38) was sevenfold greater than that (57 ± 5) counted on wax‐paper strips treated with the low concentration. Both low‐ and high‐concentration treatments prevented anemotactic orientation of male codling to an adjacent 0.1 mg codlemone lure for up to 24 h after application. These moths flew out of the release cages, but exhibited erratic and short flights not restricted to any plume and ending at the tunnel walls or the floor. This occurred with approximately 60 and 400 microcapsules per wax‐paper strip in the low‐ and high‐concentration treatments, releasing codlemone at approximately 0.15 and 1.5 μg/h respectively. After 2 days of ageing, the low‐concentration treatment no longer interfered with the ability of males to find the codlemone lure. However, the number of males contacting the lure was significantly reduced for up to 6 days with the high‐concentration treatment relative to the control and low‐concentration treatments. The high‐concentration treatment no longer impeded normal orientational flight after 2–6 days of ageing; but, it diverted males from the codlemone lure by causing them to land on the adjacent treated wax‐paper strips. This occurred at a release rate of approximately 0.7 μg codlemone/h from approximately 400 microcapsules per wax‐paper strip distributed as clumps of approximately 30 microcapsules per 14 mm2. We suggest that an initial but short‐lived disruption mechanism like camouflage is followed by a longer period of false‐plume following to clumps of microcapsules. The low‐volume, concentrated application method for disseminating pheromone microcapsules warrants further investigation for moth codling, as well as other pests because this approach may improve the efficacy without the need for increasing the field application rate.
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus recognize a novel 69 kDa target antigen of neutrophil granules
Authors: CHEN MIN , ZHAO MING‐HUI , ZHANG YOU‐KANG , WANG HAI‐YAN
Published: October 2005

Objective:  Antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) were found in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Cathepsin G and lactoferrin were the major target antigens. However, some ANCA‐positive sera did not recognize either of them. The present study was to investigate the unknown target antigens of ANCA in patients with SLE and their clinical significance.

Methods:  Sera were collected from 72 patients with SLE. ANCA were detected in both indirect immunofluorescence and antigen‐specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Mixed neutrophil granules were separated from normal human peripheral neutrophils; soluble acid extracts in non‐reducing conditions were used as antigens in western blot analysis to detect ANCA.

Results:  SLE sera could blot a few bands. Interestingly, 14/72 (19.4%) sera recognized a novel 69 kDa protein band and 10/72 (13.9%) sera recognized the 55 kDa protein band, which might be bactericidal/permeability‐increasing protein (BPI). The 69 kDa target antigen was different from the known target ANCA antigens such as cathepsin G and lactoferrin. Further study revealed that the percentages of patients with photosensitivity and oral ulcer in the anti‐69 kDa autoantibodies‐positive group were significantly higher than those in the anti‐69 kDa autoantibodies‐negative group (57.1%vs 10.3%, P < 0.005 and 50.0%vs 12.1%, P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions:  A 69 kDa protein in human neutrophil granules was identified as a novel target antigen of ANCA in patients with SLE. The anti‐69 kDa autoantibodies might be associated with photosensitivity and oral ulcer in patients with SLE.
Renal plasma flow, filtration fraction and microalbuminuria in hypertensive patients: Effects of chronic smoking
Authors: ANDRONICO GIUSEPPE , ROMÉ MARIA , LO CICERO ANTONINA , PARSI RENATO , SEDDIO GIOVANNA , FERRARO‐MORTELLARO ROSELLA , BUSCEMI SILVIO , CERASOLA GIOVANNI
Published: October 2005

Introduction:  Albumin excretion rate is usually increased in people who smoke, but the physiological basis of this phenomenon is not fully understood.

Methods:  The effect of chronic smoking on renal haemodynamics was studied in a cohort of 66 men. Twenty‐seven were smokers and 36 were hypertensive. In all subjects, the albumin excretion rate was evaluated; in hypertensive patients, a renoscintigraphic evaluation of renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration were carried out and the filtration fraction was calculated.

Results:  The hypertensive smoking population presented an increased urinary albumin excretion rate in comparison with hypertensive non‐smoking patients. No significant differences were found for the mean values of renal plasma flow, the glomerular filtration rate and the filtration fraction between hypertensive smokers and hypertensive non‐smoking patients.

Conclusions:  In hypertensive patients, smoking does not modify typical renal haemodynamic changes of arterial hypertension; however, it significantly increases the albumin excretion rate.
Plasma and urinary adrenomedullin levels in children with acute pyelonephritis
Authors: KALMAN SÜLEYMAN , BUYAN NECLA , YÜREKLI MUHITTIN , ÖZKAYA OZAN , BAKKALOĞLU SEVCAN , SÖYLEMEZOĞLU OĞUZ
Published: October 2005

Aim:  Adrenomedullin (AM), a novel peptide recently isolated from pheochromocytoma, eliciting vasorelaxing activity, is the strongest among all known peptides. AM has been detected in the adrenal medulla, cardiac tissue, lung and kidney. Immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated the localization of AM in glomeruli, tubules and collecting cells of the kidney. Clinically, plasma and urinary AM levels are altered in patients with different renal disease. The present study aims to determine plasma and urinary AM levels in children with acute pyelonephritis (APN) and compare the results with a control group.

Materials and Methods:  The study group was comprised of 19 patients with APN aged 11.6 ± 3.7 months (range, 6–18 months) and the control group consisted of 16 cases aged 11.5 ± 3.2 months (range, 7–16 months). Acute pyelonephritis was diagnosed by clinical, laboratory and imaging methods. Plasma and urinary AM levels were measured by high performance liquid chromotography (HPLC).

Results:  The plasma AM levels were lower in APN patients (33.40 ± 2.27 pmol/mL) than in the control group (43.76 ± 4.27 pmol/mL) (P < 0.001), whereas the urinary AM levels were higher in APN patients (248.58 ± 140.63 pmol/mg urinary creatinine) than in the control group (49.42 ± 45.23 pmol/mg) (P < 0.001). Coefficients of correlation between urinary AM levels and C‐reactive protein and white blood cells were statistically significant (r = 0.472, P = 0.041; r = 0.555, P = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion:  Adrenomedullin, a smooth muscle relaxant peptide that is synthesized in urinary tract tissue might have a role in acute pyelonephritis. However, the importance of AM in the pathogenesis of acute pyelonephritis remains to be determined by further detailed studies.
‘Flexible’ or ‘lifestyle’ dialysis: Is this the way forward?
Authors: AGAR JOHN WM , MAHADEVAN KUMAR , KNIGHT RICHARD , ANTONIS MICHELLE L , SOMERVILLE CHRISTINE A
Published: October 2005

Background:  Despite the advent of two new dialysis options, nocturnal home haemodialysis and short daily haemodialysis, many units are yet to build them into the modalities on offer to end‐stage renal failure patients. The reasons behind this inertia are complex but primarily include anxieties about workload, budgetary implications and outcome data.

Method:  The Geelong dialysis programme, where both nocturnal home haemodialysis and short daily haemodialysis are offered, is compared with Australian and New Zealand national profiles.

Results:  Significant profile differences emerge when comparing sessions/week and h/week between the three groups. Most Australian (92.93%) and New Zealand (95.07%) haemodialysis patients dialyse for three sessions/week. This contrasts to Geelong where only 73.6% dialyse for three sessions/week. 18.8% of Geelong haemodialysis patients versus 1.8% (Australia) and 0.9% (New Zealand) dialyse for five or more sessions/week. Australia and New Zealand follow similar h/session patterns although more Australians (44.2%) dialyse for 4 h and fewer (24.2%) for 5 h than their New Zealand counterparts (39.6% and 29.8%, respectively), and few dialyse outside the 3.5–5 h window. In contrast, 6.7% of Geelong patients dialyse for 2–2.5 h/session versus Australia (0.9%) and New Zealand (0.2%). This represents the Geelong short daily dialysis programme. More Geelong patients (>15%) dialyse ≥8 h/week and represent the Geelong nocturnal home haemodialysis programme.

Conclusion:  The flexible Geelong programme has been supported without exceeding the budget applied to a conventional dialysis programme with the same patient numbers.
Renal involvement in bone marrow transplantation
Authors: OTANI MASAKO , SHIMOJO HISASHI , SHIOZAWA SATOSHI , SHIGEMATSU HIDEKAZU
Published: October 2005

SUMMARY:  Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is an effective therapeutic strategy for leukaemic malignancies and depressed bone marrow following cancer. However, its side effects on kidneys have been reported. Some drugs and irradiation are also suggested to be nephrotoxic. It is well known that haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) after BMT develops as late‐onset BMT nephropathy. Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a possible cause. Radiation nephropathy shows changes that are similar to the histology of HUS. These findings suggest that endothelial damage is closely associated with the pathogenesis of post‐BMT nephropathy. Recently, some patients have developed glomerulonephritis accompanied by graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) after BMT. In these patients immune deposits are found mainly in subepithelium and mesangium equal to those of secondary membranous glomerulonephritis. A murine experimental model of GVHD manifests similar symptoms and histological changes to those of actual patients and may suggest the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis.
Pharmacodynamic effects of darifenacin, a muscarinic M3 selective receptor antagonist for the treatment of overactive bladder, in healthy volunteers
Authors: Kay Gary G. , Wesnes Keith A.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the pharmacodynamic effects of darifenacin (a muscarinic M3 selective receptor antagonist) and dicyclomine (an M1 selective receptor antagonist) in healthy male volunteers.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In this double‐blind, four‐way crossover study, 27 healthy men (aged 19–44 years) were randomized to receive darifenacin 7.5 mg or 15 mg once daily, dicyclomine 20 mg four times daily or matching placebo. Each 7‐day treatment period was separated by a 7‐day washout. Multiple assessments of cognitive function, quantitative electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, salivation, visual nearpoint, heart rate and heart rate variability were made on day 7 in each treatment period.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, neither dose of darifenacin affected cognitive function, whereas dicyclomine impaired performance on five of the 12 variables 2 h after dosing; simple reaction time (P = 0.009), speed of numeric (P = 0.012) and spatial (P = 0.048) working memory, and speed (P = 0.04) and sensitivity (P = 0.03) of picture recognition. These cognitive changes were accompanied by slowing of the EEG for dicyclomine. Darifenacin showed no clinically relevant effect on EEG. Darifenacin 7.5 and 15 mg once daily did not differ from placebo in effects on visual nearpoint, heart rate or heart rate variability. By contrast, dicyclomine significantly increased the maximum visual nearpoint, decreased heart rate and increased heart rate variability, relative to placebo. Both agents decreased salivary flow rate vs placebo. Treatment‐related adverse events were comparable in all groups, the most common being dry mouth; none led to treatment discontinuation.

CONCLUSIONS

Darifenacin did not affect cognitive, cardiac or visual function in healthy volunteers, a profile that may reflect its relative M3 receptor selectivity and M1/M2 sparing properties.
Intra‐operative prostate examination: predictive value and effect on margin status
Authors: Rapp David E. , Orvieto Marcelo A. , Lucioni Alvaro , Gong Edward M. , Shalhav Arieh L. , Brendler Charles B.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability of intra‐operative prostate examination (IOPE) to predict extraprostatic extension (EPE) and its effect on margin status in the region of the neurovascular bundle (NVB) when combined with wide excision.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 403 patients with clinical stage T1c prostate adenocarcinoma undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP). All patients had IOPE during RRP, and those with palpable abnormalities in the region of the NVB underwent wide excision. Pathological outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

Of 403 patients, 49 (12%) had a palpable abnormality in the region of the NVB. After wide excision, 18 (37%) of these 49 patients were found to have EPE at the site of the palpable abnormality; with wide excision of the NVB, only one of these 18 patients (6%) had a corresponding positive surgical margin (PSM). In 354 patients with a normal IOPE and who underwent bilateral NVB preservation, 30 were found to have EPE in the region of the NVB. The PSM rate in this subset was 23% (seven of 30). The positive predictive value of IOPE for detecting EPE was 37%.

CONCLUSION

IOPE detects abnormalities in 12% of patients with preoperative stage T1c prostate cancer. Although the predictive value of this test is limited, IOPE may decrease PSMs in a subset of patients with EPE in the region of the NVB. The present study reaffirms the value of IOPE for assessing the risk of extraprostatic disease, and for guiding surgical management.
What surgical resection margins are required to achieve oncological control in men with primary penile cancer?
Authors: Minhas Suks , Kayes Oliver , Hegarty Paul , Kumar Pardeep , Freeman Alex , Ralph David
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the surgical excision margin required for local oncological control in primary penile cancers, as patients with penile cancer who undergo radical amputation suffer marked psychological, functional and cosmetic sequelae, and although organ‐sparing surgery has improved the quality of life of these men, the optimum surgical excision margin to achieve oncological control is unknown.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 51 patients (mean age 61 years) diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the penis between May 2000 and December 2004 were selected for treatment with conservative surgical techniques. All patients were staged before surgery using magnetic resonance imaging. Histopathological features of the tumours, including type, grade, stage and distance from the surgical excision margin, were evaluated. All patients were followed in the outpatient department according to European Association of Urology guidelines.

RESULTS

The median (range) follow‐up of the men was 26 (2–55) months. Patients were treated by wide localized excision (nine), glans excision (26) and partial penectomy (16). The histopathological review included the analysis of 102 surgical margins (deep and skin) with 49 (48%) measured within 10 mm of the tumour edge and 92 (90%) within a <20‐mm resection margin. Three patients (6%) had tumour involvement at the surgical margin and had further surgery. During follow‐up two patients (4%) developed local tumour recurrence and were treated successfully with partial penectomy.

CONCLUSION

A traditional 2‐cm excision margin is unnecessary for treating squamous cell carcinoma of the penis. Conservative techniques, involving excision margins of only a few millimetres, appear to offer excellent oncological control.
A magnetic resonance imaging‐based study of retropubic haematoma after sling procedures: preliminary findings
Authors: Giri Subhasis K. , Wallis Fintan , Drumm John , Saunders Jean A. , Flood Hugh D.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To determine, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the incidence of retropubic haematoma and any associated clinically significant effects after a xenograft (porcine dermis) sling (XS) or the tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between October 2003 and March 2004, 24 consecutive patients presenting with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) were enrolled in this prospective study; 12 each underwent an XS or TVT procedure. A vaginal balloon pack was used for only 3 h after XS and not after TVT. All patients had pelvic MRI 6–8 h after surgery. The primary outcome measure was the incidence and distribution of retropubic haematoma after each sling technique. Secondary outcome measures included the interval to the first three spontaneous voids, the bladder emptying efficiency of the first three voids, a visual analogue scale pain score at 24 h after surgery, and the short‐term (6‐month) cure rate for SUI.

RESULTS

Overall, six (25%) patients (four XS and two TVT) developed a retropubic haematoma. Most commonly, they spread along the right paravesico‐urethral space between the right half of the levator ani and the bladder neck. Patients with large haematomas took significantly longer to void (median 14.5 vs 6.0 h, P = 0.048). There was no difference in pain score in patients with or with no haematoma. None of the patients had clinically detectable haematomas in the suprapubic wound. All six patients with haematomas were cured or improved at the 6‐month follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI is a useful noninvasive method for detecting retropubic haematomas soon after surgery. There was a surprisingly high incidence of retropubic haematomas, especially after the XS procedure. Retropubic haematomas may influence postoperative voiding efficiency.
Venous thromboembolism in radical prostatectomy: is heparinoid prophylaxis warranted?
Authors: Koya Madhusudan P. , Manoharan Murugesan , Kim Sandy S. , Soloway Mark S.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To review the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) and evaluate the need for heparinoid prophylaxis as opposed to mechanical compression devices after RRP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

RRP is classified as a category 1 (high risk) procedure for VTE by the American College of Chest Physicians and several international guidelines recommend subcutaneous heparinoids as the preferred prophylaxis. However, this regimen may be associated with a greater risk of bleeding. We have not used heparinoid prophylaxis but place a mechanical compression device for prophylaxis of VTE, and report our clinical experience over a 12‐year period. Between 1992 and 2004, all RRPs carried out by one surgeon (M.S.S.) at our centre were retrospectively reviewed after obtaining institutional review board approval. The protocol for prophylaxis of VTE consisted of compression stockings and a sequential compression device from the time of entry into the operating room until complete ambulation (we encourage early ambulation). Patients were evaluated for VTE if they developed any clinical signs or symptoms. Patients were followed at 7 days, 6 weeks and 3 months after RRP in the first year and 6‐monthly thereafter. All relevant clinical data and complications were entered in a database.

RESULTS

In all there were 1364 RRPs; the mean (sd) age of the patients was 61 (7) years and the mean follow‐up 44 (38) months. All patients had a mechanical compression device and ambulated on the first day after surgery. None received heparinoid prophylaxis. Three VTE events were identified (0.21%); two patients had a lower limb VTE and one an upper limb VTE. All were successfully treated with anticoagulation. No patient had a documented pulmonary embolus and none died from VTE. There was one death after RRP, from myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of VTE after RRP is low, possibly related to the use of a mechanical compression device and early aggressive mobilization. Despite the recommendations by some, we feel that routine heparinoid prophylaxis is questionable.
Lidocaine suppositories for prostate biopsy
Authors: Fink Klaus G. , Gnad Andrea , Meissner Phillip , Götschl Robert , Schmeller Nikolaus T.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate, in a randomized prospective study, the efficiency of transrectal lidocaine suppositories to reduce pain during transrectal prostate biopsy, as suppositories allow longer for the agent to be effective.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 100 patients were randomized to receive either a placebo suppository or 10 mL of 2% (200 mg) lidocaine gel rectally 10 min before biopsy, or a suppository containing 60 mg lidocaine 1 or 2 h before biopsy. Costs (in euros) per application were 0.82 for gel and 0.63 for suppositories. In all patients the same 10‐core biopsy technique was used. Pain was evaluated using a visual linear pain scale ranging from 0 to 100 points; the patient's side of the scale did not show the number of points.

RESULTS

The mean pain scores in the placebo, lidocaine gel, and lidocaine suppositories applied 1 h and 2 h before biopsy were 36.2, 40.9, 29.2 and 21.2, respectively. Thus patients with no anaesthesia reported 25% more pain than those receiving lidocaine suppositories 1 h before and 71% more pain than those receiving lidocaine suppositories 2 h before biopsy (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Lidocaine suppositories at a lower dose and with longer to take effect can be used to reduce pain significantly more effectively than the commonly used gel. As suppositories are easy to use and cheap, they are recommended in daily routine prostate biopsy.
The patient's choice of androgen‐deprivation therapy in locally advanced prostate cancer: bicalutamide, a gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone analogue or orchidectomy
Authors: Nyman Claes R. , Andersen Jesper T. , Lodding Per , Sandin Thorsten , Varenhorst Eberhard
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To investigate patient preference for three established androgen‐deprivation therapies for locally advanced prostate cancer; the patient's capacity to decide his therapy; the reasons for selecting a certain mode of therapy; and patient satisfaction with the chosen therapy 3 months after initiation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 150 patients (mean age 75 years, range 57–89) with previously untreated locally advanced prostate cancer from 13 hospitals were consecutively given the chance to choose between the antiandrogenic oral drug bicalutamide, a gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone analogue (GnRH) by injection, or surgical orchidectomy. After discussing the nature of their disease the patients took home written information about prostate cancer and the three different treatment options. After 1 week they were assessed using a questionnaire for biographical data, their attitude towards the different treatment alternatives and their choice of therapy. Three months later the patients completed a questionnaire about the treatment they had undergone.

RESULTS

Sixty‐three patients (42%) chose bicalutamide, 51 (34%) the GnRH analogue and 36 (24%) orchidectomy; 87% of those choosing bicalutamide, 84% GnRH and 94% orchidectomy, respectively, were sure about their choice but 12%, 17% and 3% of the patients, respectively, had some difficulty in deciding. The most important reasons for the therapy chosen were avoidance of injections and surgery, and a lower risk of impotence (bicalutamide), negative attitude to surgery and tablets (GnRH), and avoidance of injections and tablets (orchidectomy). Almost all patients (98%, 98% and 97%, respectively) were satisfied with their choice after 3 months of treatment.

CONCLUSION

There are three equally effective forms of androgen deprivation for locally advanced prostate cancer without known metastases. There are major differences among these treatments in the mode of application and the likelihood and impact of side‐effects. When patients are fully informed and play an active role in the treatment decision they are satisfied with their decision 3 months later.
Bladder cancer after managing upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma: predictive factors and pathology
Authors: Raman Jay D. , Ng Casey K. , Boorjian Stephen A. , Vaughan E. Darracott , Sosa R. Ernest , Scherr Douglas S.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patients with a history of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the upper urinary tract (UUT) to determine the incidence, pathological distribution, and risk factors for developing subsequent bladder tumours.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1993 and 2003, 103 patients were treated at our institution for UUT‐TCC. We reviewed demographic, clinical, surgical, and pathological data from these patients at a median follow‐up of 38.7 months, and used univariate and multivariate analyses with logistic regression modelling to determine prognostic variables for bladder recurrences.

RESULTS

In all, 51 (49.5%) patients developed bladder tumours after treatment for UUT‐TCC, at a mean interval of 13.2 months. Patient age (P = 0.01), UUT tumour size (P = 0.03), UUT tumour multifocality (P = 0.05), a history of bladder tumours (P = 0.03), and the number of previous bladder tumours (P = 0.05) predicted the development of bladder recurrences on univariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, only a previous history of bladder tumours (odds ratio 2.6, P = 0.05) remained significant. Over 90% of the recurrent bladder tumours were superficial, with two‐thirds of these being low to moderate grade. Six patients had muscle‐invasive disease, and five had a cystectomy.

CONCLUSION

Bladder tumours occurred in half the patients after treatment for UUT‐TCC; >60% of these subsequent bladder tumours were superficial, low‐ to moderate‐grade lesions. Neither the pathology of the UUT tumours nor the method of treatment for the UUT disease was associated with recurrent bladder tumours. Only a history of bladder cancer predicted the development of subsequent bladder tumours.
Sperm concentration and normal sperm morphology decrease and follicle‐stimulating hormone level increases with age
Authors: Pasqualotto Fábio F. , Sobreiro Bernardo P. , Hallak Jorge , Pasqualotto Eleonora B. , Lucon Antônio M.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To assess hormone levels, testicular volume, and semen characteristics of fertile men of various age groups.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of 889 men who sought a vasectomy between September 1999 and March 2003 were reviewed. Patients were divided into five groups by age; we evaluated semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, morphology and complex sperm motion variables. Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone levels and both testicular volumes were compared.

RESULTS

There were no differences among the groups in the levels of LH, testosterone, or right and left testicular volumes. There were differences among the five groups in FSH levels, semen volume, sperm concentration and motility. Normal morphology according to the World Health Organisation criteria was significantly lower in patients aged >45 years. From a linear regression analysis, semen volume, sperm concentration and motility decreased by 0.01 mL, 2.1%, and 0.27%, respectively, per year, and the FSH level increased by 0.27%.

CONCLUSIONS

Sperm concentration and motility decrease and FSH levels increase with age. Normal sperm morphology decreases from 45 years old. Thus, the ageing effect should be considered when proposing standard values for semen characteristics in routine semen analysis.