bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of runoff and erosion rates on bare and grassed loamy sand soils
Authors: Fullen M.A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. Runoff and erosion rates on loamy sand soils were measured at the Hilton experimental site, Shropshire. Little runoff and no erosion occurred on a steep runoff plot inserted into permanent grassland. Most precipitation infiltrated into the soil and was transmitted down slope as interflow within the Ah horizon. In contrast, considerable amounts of runoff and erosion occurred on the bare arable plots. These results suggest that incorporation of strips of permanent grassland into arable systems could assist soil and water conservation. Considering the high erosion rates on bare steep plots, conversion of slopes > 12° to permanent grassland seems appropriate.
Effect of urease inhibitors on denitrification in soil
Authors: Zhengping Wang , Liantie Li , Van Cleemput O. , Baert L.
Published: February 2007

Abstract.The influence of three urease inhibitors, hydroquinone (HQ), phenyl phosphorodiamidate (PPDA) and N‐(n‐butyl) phosphorothioic triamide (NBPT) on denitrification of nitrate in soil was studied in an incubation experiment under waterlogged conditions, at 25°C and in the presence of increasing amounts (0.0, 0.1 and 1 %) of ground barley straw. Two hundred milligrams of nitrate‐N (as potassium nitrate) was added with the respective urease inhibitors.

Addition of barley straw increased the denitrification rate in the soil. Within 2 days the added nitrate‐N was completely reduced. This result was confirmed by the measurement of nitrous oxide. HQ decreased gaseous nitrogen loss by decreasing the activity of the denitrifiers in the soil. The inhibitory effect was increased by adding increasing amounts of HQ. Because denitrification is stimulated by readily decomposable organic matter, the retardation seems to be a short‐term effect. The other urease inhibitors, PPDA and NBPT, had no significant influence on the denitrification process when they were applied at the rate of 4 mg per kilogram of soil.
Development of a simulation based land evaluation system using crop modelling, expert systems and risk analysis
Authors: Johnson A. K. L. , Cramb R. A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. Current methods of agricultural land evaluation in Queensland and other parts of Australia have been criticized for their inflexibility and lack of attention to costs (both private and social) associated with particular land uses. These deficiencies can limit the usefulness of land evaluation procedures in defining land capability and suitability for farm and regional land use planning. This paper outlines a new method based on soil potential ratings, that incorporates biophysical crop simulation modelling, expert systems and risk analysis. The technique is able to integrate biophysical and economic data in a measure which can be readily computed, updated and communicated to land managers.
Accuracy of methods for estimating the size of Thanatephorus cucumeris populations in soil
Authors: Dusunceli F. , Fox R. T. V.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The accuracy of assays based on galactosidase and the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay specific to Thanatephorus cucumeris were compared with techniques based on soil dilution plating and baiting in sterilized field soil. Although soil dilution plating is reasonably quantitative, it requires substantial time, material and labour. Plant baits gave inconsistent results in the estimation of T. cucumeris populations in the soil. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using monoclonal antibodies is suitable for detecting the presence of a range of anastomosis groups (AGs) of 71 cucumeris in soil samples, but more quantitative applications seem to be limited to a very narrow range of concentrations of the fungus (0–10 μg/g). Monoclonal antibody ELISA could be used if the soil samples are routinely further diluted, provided the range of concentrations is uniformly low. An assay of β‐galactosidase permits estimation of a more adequate range of concentrations (0–500 μg/g) and may be used in defined experiments using uninoculated soil samples.
Rill erosion in contrasting landscapes
Authors: Evans R.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The data from the national project to monitor water erosion has mostly been treated in an aggregate form, because in many of the monitored transects in any year too few fields were eroded for the data to be split into its component parts. However, in crop year 1983 erosion affected enough fields in two localities with contrasting soils for their data to be compared. Rainfall patterns in the two localities were similar. The transects covered a sandland area in Nottinghamshire and an area of clayland in and on the margins of Bedfordshire. Compared with the clayland, rilling of the sandland was widespread, related to the greater range of crops grown there, and more severe. On clayland, rills were mainly confined to valley floors, and slopes flanking these valleys generally had lower gradients than those on the sandland. On sandland, slopes were steeper in eroded fields drilled to winter cereals than they were in fields planted to potatoes or sugarbeet. Such field‐ based studies hint at the complex interactions of rain falling on a cropped field. Erosional thresholds are not static. The areas of fields affected by erosion and deposition were mostly very small. This helps us understand why the farmer often considers erosion unimportant.
Soil vulnerability to pollution in Europe
Authors: Batjes N. H. , Bridges E. M.
Published: February 2007

Abstract.Pollution by inorganic and organic substances is increasingly disrupting the natural functions of soils. Some soils seem capable of receiving and holding chemical compounds, at the same time retaining their ecological flexibility, but others are readily damaged and should be regarded as vulnerable to particular pollution scenarios.

At the request of the Chemical Time Bombs (CTB) Project, the International Soil Reference and Information Centre (ISRIC) organized an international workshop to assess the feasibility of increasing awareness of ‘soil vulnerability’ by a mapping exercise for Europe (SOVEUR), at a scale of 1:5 M, with reference to selected organic and inorganic contaminants. The workshop participants outlined procedures for a GIS‐based approach to determining areas where vulnerable soils occur, and formulated proposals for the implementation phase of the SOVEUR programme. Funding is now sought for continuation of the work outlined in this paper.
Understanding the soil nitrogen cycle
Authors: Powlson D. S.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. A quantitative knowledge of nitrogen cycle processes is required to design strategies for decreasing leakage of N from agriculture to the wider environment. However, it is remarkably difficult to make reliable measurements of many of the key processes under realistic field conditions. In impermeable soils hydrologically separated plots provide an invaluable method of measuring leaching and runoff. Estimates of nitrate leaching using porous ceramic cups agree well with lysimeter measurements on sandy soil but are suspect on more structured soils. Estimates of N2O flux from soil are subject to great spatial heterogeneity; developing long path‐length measuring techniques may overcome this problem.

15N labelling is valuable for assessing fertilizer N loss, forms of N left in soil and the fate of N from crop residues. The combination of experimental and modelling approaches can provide insights that are otherwise unattainable, including a basis for more precise advice on N fertilization.

Mineralization of soil organic matter and crop or animal residues provides much of the nitrate leached during winter under the climatic conditions of north‐west Europe, because mineralization is poorly synchronized with crop N uptake. Maintenance of crop cover during winter can greatly decrease leaching but the long‐term effects on the N cycle of winter cover crops or incorporating cereal straw are not yet clear.
Using expert systems and simulation modelling for land evaluation at farm level: a case study from New York State
Authors: Bouma J. , Wagenet R. J. , Hoosbeek M. R. , Hutson J. L.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. A land evaluation at farm level was made for a toposequence of three New York soils, using the FAO framework and the LEACHN simulation model. The land utilization type (LUT) was continuous corn, using three varieties with different growing periods. Ten experts identified the same land qualities but three different types of land characteristics, as derived from soil survey data, field observations and simulation modelling. Differences could be explained by the backgrounds of the experts. A land evaluation procedure according to framework criteria using decision trees rather than matching tables was more accessible and transparent. Simulation of the soil‐water regime provided quantitative data for all land qualities considered, and this procedure was preferred to qualitative estimates based on poorly defined procedures. When some land qualities cannot be characterized by simulation, however, a mix of qualitative and quantitative decision tree branches may be considered. The standard scheme of land evaluation, which is scale independent, provides irrelevant results at farm level because farmers’ questions are different from those of regional planners who are well served by the traditional land evaluation procedure. For the farmer, development of decision support systems should be focused on optimal management decisions.
The effect of organic matter content on soil erosion in simulated rainfall experiments in W. Sussex, UK
Authors: Guerra A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The effect of organic matter content and other soil properties on soil erosion in the Rogate area, West Sussex, UK, was assessed using a rainfall simulator. Thirty soil samples (Podzols, Brown sands, Brown earths, Alluvial gley and Podzolized brown sands) collected from eroded and uneroded fields were exposed to 50 mm/h and 70 mm/h simulated rainfall. The results show that organic matter content influences soil erosion, through its effect on the stability of aggregates.
A study of the oxygen regime and rooting depth in deep peat under plantations of Sitka spruce and lodgepole pine
Authors: Ray D. , Schweizer S.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. Rooting depth, watertable depth and oxygen regime were measured in plots of Sitka spruce, lodgepole pine and a 50% mixture of each species planted on a deep unflushed blanket peat. The water‐table was about 10 cm deeper and roots occurred about 2 cm deeper under the pine than under the spruce or the mixture. In addition the mean concentration of oxygen at 50 cm depth was significantly larger under the pine and the mixture than under the spruce, showing that the rapid early growth of the pine had started to dry the peat. There was no evidence of any improvement in the growth of the spruce in the mixture compared to the pure Sitka spruce, suggesting that the expected nursing benefit had not occurred.
Short‐term and long‐term effects of ploughing on the vertical distribution of radiocaesium in two Bavarian soils
Authors: Schimmack W. , Bunzl K. , Flessa H.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The effect of ploughing on the vertical and horizontal distribution of 137Cs was investigated at two fields in Bavaria from 1987 to 1991. Soil samples from four layers in eight plots along a transect were taken in each field after each ploughing and harrowing. Total activities and activity concentrations were evaluated separately for 137Cs derived from Chernobyl and from global fallout of weapon testing. In 1987 137Cs from global fallout was already well mixed in both fields because of the long residence time in the soil. 137Cs derived from Chernobyl, however, was distributed rather inhomogeneously in vertical as well as in horizontal directions. The coefficient of variation of the vertical activity concentrations within the Ap horizon decreased continuously from the first to the fourth ploughing, in one field by a factor of five. The number of ploughings necessary to attain a uniform vertical distribution of Chernobyl‐derived caesium was three and four in the two fields. Along the transects inhomogeneities caused by the spatial variability of the deposition of radiocaesium during the Chernobyl fallout were not removed by ploughing.
Effects of different lime application rates and time on some chemical properties of an acid soil in Ghana
Authors: Osei B.A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. Finely ground calcium carbonate was applied at six rates (0–7.0 t/ha) to samples from four depths of an acid tropical soil (Oxisol). The mixtures were kept moist and maintained at 18 °C for a period of 30 days. There was a significant increase (> 28%) in soil pH at all the sampling depths. Extractable P also increased significantly (> 90%). Significant positive correlations between pH, extractable P and liming rate were obtained (r > 0.9, P= 0.01). The effect of time was significant only on the 10th day after liming, when soil pH had stabilized. Exchangeable Al was completely eliminated on the 5th day after liming, when most of the soil samples had pH values > 5.0. The results clearly indicate that liming, as a management practice, could be used to alleviate or prevent acidification of Oxisols like the soil studied.
Soil respiration and carbon inputs from crops in a wheat—soyabean rotation under different tillage systems
Authors: Alvarez R. , Santanatoglia O.J. , García R.
Published: February 2007

Abstract.The production of CO2in the field and the contribution of carbon from crops to the soil were evaluated for the double crop wheat‐soyabean rotation on a typical soil of the Rolling Pampa to assess the effects of two tillage systems, mouldboard ploughing and shallow discing, on the soil carbon balance. Microbial biomass and respiration under controlled conditions were also determined.

No differences in soil microbial biomass contents were detected between tillage systems after two years, but the biological activity of incubated soils and the mineralized fraction of organic carbon were greater (P= 0.05) at the 0–5 cm depth in disc tillage. This suggested an increase in the labile fraction of organic matter in that layer, though the total carbon content of the soil did not vary significantly.

Soil moisture was not a limiting factor at any time of the year and production of CO2in the field was regulated by temperature (r> 0.89,P= 0.01). There were no differences between tillage systems in the emission of CO2to the atmosphere, which was estimated at 11.6 t C/ha/yr. The contribution in dry matter from the crops ranged from 15.3 to 17.0 t/ha/yr, and the carbon input was approximately 7.0 t/ha/yr. Consequently, the soil lost carbon with the wheat—soyabean rotation but tillage systems did not affect carbon inputs and losses from the agrosystem.
Green manuring with clover and ryegrass catch crops undersown in spring wheat: effects on soil structure
Authors: Breland T.A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The objective of the present study was to investigate the potential of undersown catch crops to counteract soil degradation after autumn ploughing. Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) were undersown in spring wheat on a loam soil in southern Norway, allowed to grow as cover crops after grain harvest and ploughed in to 20 cm depth as green manure in late October. Ryegrass prevented a collapse of the ridged plough furrow profile during winter, which occurred on grain monoculture and white‐clover plots. Also, it tended to improve the water stability of aggregates, aggregate size distribution, bulk density, and pore volume in soil sampled in May. The preservation of the plough furrow profile was mainly attributed to enmeshment by an extensive system of fine roots and less to rhizosphere and microbial effects on aggregate stability. The results showed that ryegrass catch crops may give rapid structure improvements that are likely to contribute appreciably to easier seedbed preparation and less soil degradation in arable farming systems, even if the soil is ploughed in autumn.
Agricultural soils as a sink to mitigate CO2emissions
Authors: Paustian K. , Andrén O. , Janzen H. H. , Lal R. , Smith P. , Tian G. , Tiessen H. , Van Noordwijk M. , Woomer P. L.
Published: February 2007

Abstract.Agricultural soils, having been depleted of much of their native carbon stocks, have a significant CO2sink capacity. Global estimates of this sink capacity are in the order of 20‐30 Pg C over the next 50‐100 years. Management practices to build up soil C must increase the input of organic matter to soil and/or decrease soil organic matter decomposition rates. The most appropriate management practices to increase soil C vary regionally, dependent on both environmental and socioeconomic factors.

In temperate regions, key strategies involve increasing cropping frequency and reducing bare fallow, increasing the use of perennial forages (including N‐fixing species) in crop rotations, retaining crop residues and reducing or eliminating tillage (i.e. no‐till). In North America and Europe, conversion of marginal arable land to permanent perennial vegetation, to protect fragile soils and landscapes and/or reduce agricultural surpluses, provides additional opportunities for C sequestration.

In the tropics, increasing C inputs to soil through improving the fertility and productivity of cropland and pastures is essential. In extensive systems with vegetated fallow periods (e.g. shifting cultivation), planted fallows and cover crops can increase C levels over the cropping cycle. Use of no‐till, green manures and agroforestry are other beneficial practices. Overall, improving the productivity and sustainability of existing agricultural lands is crucial to help reduce the rate of new land clearing, from which large amounts of CO2from biomass and soil are emitted to the atmosphere.

Some regional analyses of soil C sequestration and sequestration potential have been performed, mainly for temperate industrialized countries. More are needed, especially for the tropics, to capture region‐specific interactions between climate, soil and management resources that are lost in global level assessments.

By itself, C sequestration in agricultural soils can make only modest contributions (e.g. 3‐6% of total fossil C emissions) to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. However, effective mitigation policies will not be based on any single ‘magic bullet’ solutions, but rather on many modest reductions which are economically efficient and which confer additional benefits to society. In this context, soil C sequestration is a significant mitigation option. Additional advantages of pursuing strategies to increase soil C are the added benefits of improved soil quality for improving agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Emissions of N2O and NO associated with nitrogen fertilization in intensive agriculture, and the potential for mitigation
Authors: Smith K. A. , McTaggart I. P. , Tsuruta H.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. Increases in the atmospheric concentrations of nitrous oxide (N2O) contribute to global warming and to ozone depletion in the stratosphere. Nitric oxide (NO) is a cause of acid rain and tropospheric ozone. The use of N fertilizers in agriculture has direct and indirect effects on the emissions of both these gases, which are the result of microbial nitrification and denitrification in the soil, and which are controlled principally by soil water and mineral N contents, temperature and labile organic matter.

The global emission of N2O from cultivated land is now estimated at 3.5 TgN annually, of which 1.5 Tg has been directly attributed to synthetic N fertilizers, out of a total quantity applied in 1990 of about 77Tg N. This amount was 150% above the 1970 figure. The total fertilizer‐induced emissions of NO are somewhere in the range 0.5‐5 Tg N. Mineral N fertilizers can also be indirect as well as direct sources of N2O and NO emissions, via deposition of volatilized NH3 on natural ecosystems and denitrification of leached nitrate in subsoils, waters and sediments.

IPCC currently assume an N2O emission factor of 1.25 ± 1.0% of fertilizer N applied. No allowance is made for different fertilizer types, on the basis that soil management and cropping systems, and unpredictable rainfall inputs, are more important variables. However, recent results show substantial reductions in emissions from grassland by matching fertilizer type to environmental conditions, and in arable systems by using controlled release fertilizers and nitrification inhibitors. Also, better timing and placement of N, application of the minimum amount of N to achieve satisfactory yield, and optimization of soil physical conditions, particularly avoidance of excessive wetness and compaction, would be expected to reduce the average emission factor for N2O. Some of these adjustments would also reduce NO emissions. However, increasing global fertilizer use is likely to cause an upward trend in total emissions even if these mitigating practices become widely adopted.
Changes to soil physical properties after grazing exclusion
Authors: Greenwood K. L. , MacLeod D. A. , Scott J. M. , Hutchinson K. J.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The potential for degraded physical properties of soil to regenerate naturally after exclusion of grazing animals was examined at a long‐term stocking rate trial near Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Unsaturated hydraulic conductivity was measured before grazing was excluded, and after 7 months and 2.5 years’ grazing exclusion. These data were compared with controls grazed at 10,15 and 20 sheep/ha. After 2.5 years, there were significant increases in unsaturated hydraulic conductivity at 5 and 15 mm tension in the ungrazed treatments compared with the grazed controls. The unsaturated hydraulic conductivities and bulk density of surface soils under pasture which had been ungrazed for 2.5 years were comparable to those where the pasture had been ungrazed for 27 years. We speculate that the natural amelioration of soil physical properties in these soils was due to biological activity and wetting and drying cycles, in the absence of the compactive effect of animal treading.
Dynamics of phosphorus fractions in a savanna Alfisol under continuous cultivation
Authors: Agbenin J. O. , Goladi J. T.
Published: February 2007

Abstract.We examined the dynamics of inorganic P (Pi) and organic P (Po) pools of a savanna Alfisol under continuous cultivation complemented with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers with or without cow manure (D), using a modified Hedly fractionation. Continuous cultivation without P fertilizer decreased the concentration of Piand Po, pools including the residual P fraction compared with an unfertilized treatment with natural vegetation. Adding P fertilizers alone or in combination with D (P, NPK, D+P, D+NP and D+NPK) increased the concentration of labile Pipools, but decreased the concentration of Po, pools and the residual P fraction. The tendency of the residual P fraction to decrease along with Popools suggested that the residual P fraction was largely Po. This is consistent with the correlation between the residual P fraction and total Po(r=0.74**) and the residual P fraction and organic carbon content (r=0.47**). Analysis of the relationships between plant available P, estimated by resin‐extractable P, and the more stable Piand Po, pools indicated that 85% of the variation in resin‐P was atiributable to the hydroxide extractable Pi, (OH‐Pi) and HCI‐Piwhich acted as sinks for fertilizer‐P. The contribution of the residual P fraction to resin‐P was indirect via bicarbonate‐extractable Po(HCO3‐Po) and OH‐Po. These results also clarify why attempts to find P extraction methods which correlate well with response to P and to P uptake in the savanna have given inconsistent results.
Preferential flow in a well drained and a poorly drained soil under different overhead irrigation regimes
Authors: McLeod M. , Schipper L. A. , Taylor M. D.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. There is environmental concern about the increasing land application of dairy shed effluent in New Zealand. To minimize groundwater contamination by applied nutrients and pathogens it is desirable to avoid preferential flow through topsoils. Our objective was to determine an irrigation rate that retained applied effluent in the topsoil of two commonly irrigated New Zealand soils. In a field experiment, well drained Horotiu soils and poorly drained Te Kowhai soils were irrigated with a pyranine dye/KBr tracer solution at four rates (5, 10, 15, 20 mm/h) using a drip‐type rainfall simulator. Twenty minutes after irrigation ceased the soil was excavated horizontally at 25 or 50 mm intervals, and photographed under UV light until no further fluorescence was vishle. Each layer was also analysed for bromide content, without subsampling. The wetting pattern was uneven in both soils as leachate moved preferentially through worm channels and structural cracks. Preferential flow was greatest in the Te Kowhai soil and increased at faster application rates. Dye fluorescence was curvilinearly related to bromide concentration. At both study sites, maintaining the irrigation rate at 10 mm/h minimized leachate movement into the subsoil. Pulsed irrigation at faster rates was not retained in the topsoil.
Nutrient inputs to soils and their uptake by alfalfa through long‐term irrigation with untreated sewage effluent in Mexico
Authors: Siebe C.
Published: February 2007

Abstract. The effects of long‐term waste water irrigation on soil fertility and nutrient supply to alfalfa (Medicago sativa) have been investigated in an area near Mexico City Waste water irrigation has improved the nutrient balance of the soil in respect of total nitrogen and available phosphorus. In contrast Na has displaced Ca and diminished the Ca saturation of the soil. In consequence, Ca in alfalfa tissue has decreased and phosphorus and sodium increased after 80 years of waste water irrigation. Estimates of the N‐balance suggest that substantial amounts of N are being lost, probably with consequent eutrophication of the groundwater.
Is New‐Onset Diabetes of Clinical Significance in Treated Hypertensive Patients?—Con
Authors: Moser Marvin
Published: February 2007

There is little doubt that diabetes is more common in hypertensive than normotensive individuals. There are also some data suggesting that the use of certain antihypertensive agents, i.e., diuretics and more specifically some β blockers will increase the occurrence of new onset diabetes (NOD) when compared to other medications, especially angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. The clinical significance of this l%–3.5% difference, however, has not been established. Different studies report different outcomes. In large outcome trials the occurrence of NOD did not effect mortality or morbidity outcomes. Although one study reported that NOD had the same prognosis as pretreatment diabetes, another did not. At present, data are insufficient to suggest that NOD is of important clinical significance or that present treatment recommendations, especially regarding the use of diuretics, should be changed.
The Effect of Extended‐Release Metoprolol Succinate on C‐Reactive Protein Levels in Persons With Hypertension
Authors: King Dana E. , Egan Brent M. , Mainous Arch G. , Geesey Mark E.
Published: February 2007

The objective of this study was to determine whether 3 months of treatment with extended‐release metoprolol succinate would reduce C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels. Seventy‐five patients aged 30–65 years with uncontrolled hypertension were treated with extended‐release metoprolol at 25–50 mg, titrated up to 100–200 mg daily. CRP was evaluated at baseline and at 1 and 3 months. In the 61 hypertensive patients who completed the study, CRP decreased from 6.2±7.5 mg/L at baseline to 5.4±7.0 mg/L (p=0.03) at 1 month and showed no further change at 3 months (5.6±6.5 mg/L; p=0.13). The 13 patients who received 200 mg of extended‐release metoprolol had a 32% decline in CRP from 7.0±9.0 mg/L to 4.8±6.6 mg/L (−2.2 mg/L) (p=0.005) over the 3‐month period, whereas lower doses did not reduce CRP (p>0.05). Age, race, sex, and change in blood pressure were not related to the reduction in CRP in multivariate analysis. If CRP evolves into a confirmed modifiable risk factor, a β blocker such as metoprolol may be a useful addition to pharmacotherapy options.
The Effect of Antihypertensive Drugs on Erectile Function: A Proposed Management Algorithm
Authors: Doumas Michael , Douma Stella
Published: February 2007

The pharmacologic management of hypertension has long been implicated in the genesis of erectile dysfunction; the latter is considered the main reason of nonadherence to antihypertensive therapy. Older‐generation antihypertensive drugs (central‐acting, β blockers, diuretics) negatively affect erectile function, while newer‐generation agents (calcium antagonists, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors) seem to have neutral effects. Preliminary data with the latest drugs (angiotensin receptor blockers) point to a beneficial effect on erectile function. Phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors, used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, can be safely and effectively administered to hypertensive patients (even when on multiple‐agent antihypertensive therapy), with a caution regarding α blockers. In the case when erectile dysfunction is considered to result from antihypertensive therapy, the treating physician may either add phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors or substitute current treatment with angiotensin receptor blockers.
Sexual Dysfunction in Essential Hypertension: Myth or Reality?
Authors: Doumas Michael , Douma Stella
Published: February 2007

Erectile dysfunction is currently considered a condition with high prevalence in the general population, exerting a major impact on patients' and their sexual partners' quality of life. Available data indicate that hypertension represents a risk factor for erectile dysfunction, which is more frequent in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects. The pathophysiologic basis of erectile dysfunction in hypertension is under thorough investigation, and several mechanisms have been proposed. Erectile dysfunction has also been related to cardiovascular risk factors and might be used as a marker of cardiovascular disease in the future. Although male sexuality has been studied rather extensively, female sexual dysfunction in hypertension is underexplored. Recently published hypertension guidelines either ignore or superficially address sexual dysfunction, underlining the need for more attention and better education of health care professionals on this issue.
Serum Uric Acid as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular and Renal Disease: An Old Controversy Revived
Authors: Viazzi Francesca , Leoncini Giovanna , Ratto Elena , Pontremoli Roberto
Published: February 2007

Hyperuricemia is commonly associated with traditional risk factors such as abnormalities in glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Recent studies have revived the controversy over the role of serum uric acid as an independent prognostic factor for cardiovascular mortality. The authors review clinical and experimental evidence concerning the role of serum uric acid in the development of cardiovascular and renal damage. Results of trials suggesting that serum uric acid variations over time may have a prognostic impact are also discussed.
Regression of Alterations in Retinal Microcirculation Following Treatment for Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Pose‐Reino Antonio , Rodríguez‐Fernández Marta , Hayik Bashir , Gomez‐Ulla Francisco , José Carrera‐Nouche María , Gude‐Sampedro Francisco , Estévez‐Nuñez Juan Carlos , Méndez‐Naya Isabel
Published: February 2007

Evaluation of early hypertension‐related alterations in retinal microcirculation has been subjective and poorly reproducible. The authors recently described a semiautomatic computerized system for evaluation of the calibre of retinal blood vessels that has shown very good reproducibility. In the study, this system was used to measure the calibres of retinal arterioles and veins, and their ratio, in a group of 51 hypertensive outpatients before and after 6 months of treatment with losartan or, if required for satisfactory blood pressure control, losartan plus hydrochlorothiazide. Mean retinal arteriole diameter increased from 0.0842±0.003 mm to 0.0847±0.003 mm (p=0.001). Arteriovenous ratio increased from 0.753±0.03 to 0.756±0.03 (p=0.005). This observation suggests regression of early hypertension‐related alterations in retinal microcirculation after 6 months of antihypertensive treatment.
Cardiovascular Risk Factor Control in Communities—Update From the ASH Carolinas‐Georgia Chapter, the Hypertension Initiative, and the Community Physicians' Network
Authors: Egan Brent M. , Lackland Daniel T. , Igho‐Pemu Priscilla , Hendrix Katharine H. , Basile Jan , Rehman Shakaib U. , Okonofua Eni C. , Quarshie Alexander , Oduwole Adefisayo , Onwuanyi Anekwe , Reed James , Obialo Chamberlain , Ofili Elizabeth O.
Published: February 2007

The prevalence of hypertension dictates that blood pressure must be managed effectively in primary care. The American Society of Hypertension (ASH) regional chapters and clinical hypertension specialists represent a positive response by ASH to the growing problems of hypertension and metabolic syndrome—related risks and disease. To have a significant public health effect, the impact of clinical hypertension specialists must be leveraged. Key activities in the community include educating other providers locally, delivering care for complex referral patients, and fostering growth of a practice network with a central database in collaboration with academic partners. The database supports practice audit and feedback reports to enhance quality improvement, identify continuing medical education topics, and facilitate clinical trials to test new therapeutic and best‐practice approaches to risk factor management. The ASH regional chapters serve as a forum for community and academic hypertension specialists to collaborate with like‐minded individuals and organizations. The collaboration among the ASH Carolinas—Georgia chapter, the Hypertension Initiative, and the Community Physicians' Network provides a model for other ASH chapters and health delivery groups to partner in delivering continuing medical education programs focused on cardiovascular risk factor management, recruiting practices into the network, and developing and maintaining a centralized patient database. Evidence suggests that this collaboration is facilitating application of evidence‐based medicine and risk factor control.
Good manufacturing practices production of natural killer cells for immunotherapy: a six‐year single‐institution experience
Authors: McKenna David H. , Sumstad Darin , Bostrom Nancy , Kadidlo Diane M. , Fautsch Susan , McNearney Sarah , DeWaard Rose , McGlave Philip B. , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Wagner John E. , McCullough Jeffrey , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND: Natural killer (NK) cells, a subset of lymphocytes and part of the innate immune system, play a crucial role in defense against cancer and viral infection. Herein is a report on the experience of clinical‐scale, good manufacturing practices (GMPs) production of NK cells to treat advanced cancer.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Two types of NK cell enrichments were performed on nonmobilized peripheral blood mononuclear cell apheresis collections with a cell selection system (CliniMACS, Miltenyi): CD3 cell depletion to enrich for NK cells and CD3 cell depletion followed by CD56 cell selection to obtain a more pure NK cell product. After overnight incubation with interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), cells were washed, resuspended in 5 percent human serum albumin, and then released for infusion.

RESULTS: A total of 70 NK cell therapy products have been manufactured for patient infusion since 2000. For the CD3 cell–depleted NK cell products, the mean purity, recovery, and viability were 38, 79, and 86 percent, respectively. For the CD3 cell–depleted/CD56 cell–enriched NK cell products, the mean purity, recovery, and viability were 90, 19, and 85 percent, respectively. Gram stain, sterility, and endotoxin testing were all within acceptable limits for established lot release. Compared to the resting processed cells, IL‐2 activation significantly increased the function of cells in cytotoxicity assays.

CONCLUSION: Clinical‐scale production of NK cells is efficient and can be performed under GMPs. The purified NK cell product results in high NK cell purity with minimal contamination by T cells, monocytes, and B cells, but it requires more time for processing and results in a lower NK cell recovery when compared to NK cell enrichment with CD3 cell depletion alone. Additional laboratory studies and results from clinical trials will identify the best source and type of NK cell product.
Transfusion‐acquired Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Young Carolyn , Losikoff Phyllis , Chawla Anjulika , Glasser Lewis , Forman Edwin
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND: A 3½‐year‐old girl with Stage 4 neuroblastoma received multiple blood components and was subsequently diagnosed with Chagas disease, which is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: All blood donors of the units that were transfused were requested to return to the collection facility for a blood sample to be tested for antibodies to T. cruzi.

RESULTS: One first‐time donor was found to be positive for the presence of T. cruzi antibodies. This donor was originally from Bolivia and immigrated to the United States 17 years previously. She had not returned to her native country since her emigration.

CONCLUSIONS: This is the seventh reported case of Chagas disease transmission by blood transfusion in the United States and Canada. Although this would not be expected to occur in New England, it did, and this case demonstrates the significance of the immune status of patients as it relates to transfusion‐acquired infections, the impact of geographic mobility in disease transmission, and the need for a licensed screening test for Chagas disease for the US blood supply.
Stenting of Unprotected Distal Left Main Coronary Artery Bifurcation Stenoses Using Modified Crush Technique with Double Kissing Balloon Inflation (Sleeve Technique): Immediate Procedure Result and Early Clinical Outcome
Authors: JIM MAN‐HONG , CHOW WING‐HING , HO HEE‐HWA
Published: February 2007

Background: Sleeve technique is a modified version of the crush technique. It is specifically designed to increase the success rate of final kissing balloon inflation, which used to be a major limitation of the latter.

Objective:This study sought to look at the feasibility, safety, and early clinical outcome of sleeve technique in stenting of unprotected distal left main coronary artery (LMCA) bifurcation stenoses.

Methods: From August 2005 to April 2006, 12 consecutive patients with symptomatic distal LMCA bifurcation stenoses of diameter narrowing ≥50%, who refused coronary artery bypass graft surgery, were treated with two‐stent strategy using the sleeve technique.

Results: Eleven patients (91.7%) were male, with a mean age of 64.4 ± 9.3 years. Intravenous abciximab was given to 10 patients (83.3%). The baseline reference vessel diameters of the main vessel and side branch were 3.32 ± 0.44 and 3.00 ± 0.58 mm, respectively. After intervention, the minimal luminal diameter was increased from 0.99 ± 0.46 to 3.26 ± 0.28 mm and 1.43 ± 0.71 to 2.93 ± 0.45 mm in the main vessel and side branch, respectively. The intervention procedure was successful in all patients with 100% final kissing balloon inflation rate. The average procedure time was 58.6 ± 20.5 minutes. Two patients had a small non‐Q myocardial infarction postprocedure. The resultant major adverse cardiac event rate was 16.7% at 30 days after the procedure.

Conclusions: Sleeve technique is a safe and feasible approach in the stenting of distal LMCA bifurcation stenoses.
Significance of Sequence of Strokes in Chinese Handwriting Examination*
Authors: Li Chi‐Keung , Yang Chi‐Ting , Poon Nai‐Leung , Fung Wing‐Kam
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: This paper reports a statistical study on the sequence of strokes of 61 commonly encountered Chinese radicals and characters written by 372 invited subjects. The distribution of different writing sequence of these Chinese radicals and characters was examined. Comparison of the sequence of strokes executed by the subjects with the standard rule of writing these Chinese radicals and characters revealed that around 60% of the subjects wrote in the correct sequence. Pair comparison of sequences of strokes in Chinese handwriting among the 372 subjects was also performed. The results demonstrated that no two individuals wrote all the 61 radicals and characters with the same sequence of strokes. The findings indicate that, despite some basic rules governing the writing sequence of Chinese characters, writers tend to develop their own habits. The findings also support the hypothesis that the handwriting of experienced writers is individual.
DNA Profiling from Heroin Street Dose Packages
Authors: Zamir Ashira , Cohen Yaron , Azoury Myriam
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: A large amount of heroin street doses are seized and examined for drug content by the Israel police. These are generally wrapped in heat‐sealed plastic. Occasionally it is possible to visualize latent fingerprints on the plastic wrap itself, but the small size of the plastic item and the sealing process makes the success rate very low. In this study, the possibility of extracting and profiling DNA from the burnt edge of the plastic wrap was investigated. The idea was based on the assumption that epithelial cells might be trapped during the sealing process. The results show that there are sufficient quantities of DNA deposited at the “amorphic” burnt edges of sealed street doses for DNA profiling to be carried out. A controlled experiment using a known donor was performed. This subject carried out sealing of “street drug” packages and consequent DNA extractions were performed to show that known DNA profiles could be recovered from such packages, as a result of handling by the “packer.”“Square‐like” burnt edges did not yield DNA profiles, probably because of differences in the sealing process. It was also shown that DNA could be recovered from the plastic wrap itself and not only from the amorphic burnt edges. As heroin dealers and drug users are often involved in other crimes and run‐ins with the law, the effective extraction and addition of their DNA profiles from such items of evidence to the newly established DNA database in Israel provides new avenues in the continued fight against crime and drug traffickers.
Sex Determination from Hand and Foot Bone Lengths*
Authors: Case D. Troy , Ross Ann H.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: Numerous studies have addressed sex estimation from the hands and feet with varying results. These studies have utilized multiple measurements to determine sex from the hands and feet, including measures of robusticity (e.g., base width and midshaft diameter). However, robusticity measurements are affected by activity, which can disguise underlying patterns of sexual dimorphism. The purpose of this study is to investigate the utility of length measurements of the hands and feet to estimate sex. The sample consists of white females (n=123) and males (n=136) from the Terry Collection. Discriminant function analysis was used to classify individuals by sex. The left hand outperformed both the right hand and foot producing correct classification rates exceeding 80%. Surprisingly, the phalanges were better sex discriminators than either the metacarpals or metatarsals. This study suggests that length measures are more appropriate than robusticity measures for sex estimation.
Pineal Arginine Vasotocin Activity Increases 200‐Fold During August in Adult Rats and Hamsters
Authors: Prechel M. Margaret , Audhya Tapan K. , Simmons William H.
Published: February 2007

In a previous study, measurements of arginine vasotocin‐immunoactivity (iAVT) in immature rats over a period of 14 months, led to the discovery of a significant yearly variation, with peak levels of iAVT in August. In the present study, iAVT was measured in pineals obtained from mature male and female rats and hamsters once or twice weekly from July until early September 1982. For all groups, mean pineal AVT‐immunoactivity was less that 7 pg/gland in early July, but then increased significantly by August 11–13. For hamsters, maximum values of 1,272 ± 49 (mean ± S.E.: n = 3) and 1,065 ± 62 pg/gland were recorded for males and females, respectively. For rats, peak values measured were 940 ± 12 pg/gland for males and 1,040 ± 34 for females. The AVT‐activity levels then decreased to less than 100 pg/gland by early September. Thus, a dramatic August elevation of pineal iAVT is characteristic of hamsters as well as rats, and of mature as well as immature animals.
Pineal‐Induced Depression of Free Thyroxine in Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Vaughan George M. , Pruitt Basil A.
Published: February 2007

Blind hamsters had no alteration of the dialyzable fraction of serum thyroxine (T4) but had depressed total and free T4 concentrations compared to controls. Prevention of the effects of blinding by pinealectomy indicates pineal influence on circulating free T4 concentration. Parallel changes in free T4 and the free T4 index indicate adequacy of the index in representing pineal‐induced changes in free T4.
In Vitro Uptake and Metabolism of [3H]Indole Compounds in the Pineal Organ of the Pike. II. A Radioautographic Study
Authors: Falcón Jacky , Collin Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2007

In a previous radiobiochemical study [Falcón et al., 1985] it was demonstrated that the pineal organ of the pike incubated in vitro takes up and metabolizes [3H]serotonin and [3H]melatonin. Parallel to this experiment (present work), pineal organs were investigated by use of light and electron microscopic radioautography to investigate the cell types involved in indole metabolism. Irrespective of the tracer and experimental conditions used, the radioautographic reactions were mainly found in cone‐like and modified photoreceptor cells of the pineal parenchyma. Taking into account the limits of the method used as well as previous data concerning (1) the direct photosensitivity of the organ, (2) the focalization of exogenous indoles, and (3) the localization and circadian variations of endogenous ones, it is concluded that the photoperiodic information is translated into both nervous and indolic signals in cone‐like photoreceptor cells and into indolic signals in modified photoreceptor cells.