bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of carbon sensitization for the visible-light photocatalytic titanium oxide
Authors: Chen Y. J. , Jhan G. Y. , Cai G. L. , Lin C. S. , Wong M. S. , Ke S.-C. , Lo H. H. , Cheng C. L. , Shyue J.-J.
Published: June 2010

The authors successfully synthesized titanium oxide (TiO2) nanopowder with visible-light photocatalytic ability by low-pressure flat-flame metal organic chemical vapor condensation method. In order to confirm that carbon doping is a viable mechanism for the visible-light absorption of the powder prepared by this method, they modify the process by total exclusion of nitrogen usage to eliminate the nitrogen doping possibility. Since nitrogen is avoided in the process, the visible-light absorption cannot be due to nitrogen doping. They also found that the nanopowder formed has a single phase of anatase. Thus the nanopowder does not have anatase/rutile interface, and the authors can eliminate the possibility of visible-light absorption by the anatase/rutile interface. The visible-light absorption should thus be resort to the carbon doping. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies show the presence of several carbon related bonds except Ti–C bond. This suggests that the carbon does not incorporate into the TiO2 crystal and should locate on the surface of the nanopowder. Thus the carbon species act as a visible-light sensitizer for the TiO2 as a photocatalyst. Among all carbon bonds the C–C bond is believed to be responsible for the light absorption, since all other carbon related bonds are not chromophores. The visible-light TiO2 photocatalysis induced by carbon doping is confirmed and explained.
Deposition rates of high power impulse magnetron sputtering: Physics and economics
Authors: Anders André
Published: June 2010

Deposition by high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HIPIMS) is considered by some as the new paradigm of advanced sputtering technology, yet this is met with skepticism by others for the reported lower deposition rates, if compared to rates of more conventional sputtering of equal average power. In this contribution, the underlying physical reasons for the rate changes are discussed, including (i) ion return to the target and self-sputtering, (ii) the less-than-linear increase in the sputtering yield with increasing ion energy, (iii) yield changes due to the shift of species responsible for sputtering, (iv) changes due to greater film density, limited sticking, and self-sputtering on the substrate, (v) noticeable power losses in the switch module, (vi) changes in the magnetic balance and particle confinement of the magnetron due to self-fields at high current, and (vii) superposition of sputtering and sublimation/evaporation for selected materials. The situation is even more complicated for reactive systems where the target surface chemistry is a function of the reactive gas partial pressure and discharge conditions. While most of these factors imply a reduction in the normalized deposition rate, increased rates have been reported for certain conditions using hot targets and less poisoned targets. Finally, some points of economics and HIPIMS benefits are considered.
Spatial distribution of electrical properties for Al-doped ZnO films deposited by dc magnetron sputtering using various inert gases
Authors: Sato Yasushi , Ishihara Keita , Oka Nobuto , Shigesato Yuzo
Published: June 2010

Spatial distribution of electrical properties of Al-doped ZnO (AZO) films deposited by magnetron sputtering was investigated. To adjust the intensity of bombardment by high-energy particles, the AZO films were deposited using Ar, Kr, or Xe gas with varying plasma impedance. The spatial distribution of the electrical properties clearly depends on the sputtering gas. In the case of using Kr or Xe, the resistivity of the films in front of the target center and erosion areas was significantly enhanced, in contrast with Ar. This was attributed to an enhancement in bombardment damage due to the increased sputtering voltages required for Kr or Xe discharges. The increase in plasma impedance was due to the smaller coefficients for secondary-electron emission of the target surface by Kr or Xe impingements, which leads to the larger sputtering voltage.
Dielectrophoresis-assisted deposition and alignment of single-walled carbon nanotubes for electronic-device fabrication
Authors: Xiao Z. , Sharma H. , Zhu M. Y. , Pearson T.
Published: June 2010

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been considered as a promising nanostructured material for the realization of future nanoelectronic devices because of their unique electrical properties, such as the ballistic transportation of electrons or holes in SWCNTs. In this article, ultrapurified high-pressure carbon monoxide-grown SWCNTs were ultrasonically dispersed in toluene, dimethylformamide, and n-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) for deposition and alignment. NMP was found to be the best solvent to disperse SWCNTs for the dielectrophoresis (DEP)-assisted deposition and alignment of SWCNTs among the three solvents. The alternating electric field-directed DEP method was successfully used to deposit and align SWCNTs onto four pairs of gold electrodes simultaneously. The current-voltage electrical property of the aligned SWCNTs was measured and compared for the four devices. The demonstration of simultaneous deposition and alignment of SWCNTs for several devices indicates that the DEP method could be used for the fabrication of SWCNT-based integrated devices.
Surface analyses of electropolished niobium samples for superconducting radio frequency cavity
Authors: Tyagi P. V. , Nishiwaki M. , Saeki T. , Sawabe M. , Hayano H. , Noguchi T. , Kato S.
Published: June 2010

The performance of superconducting radio frequency niobium cavities is sometimes limited by contaminations present on the cavity surface. In the recent years extensive research has been done to enhance the cavity performance by applying improved surface treatments such as mechanical grinding, electropolishing (EP), chemical polishing, tumbling, etc., followed by various rinsing methods such as ultrasonic pure water rinse, alcoholic rinse, high pressure water rinse, hydrogen per oxide rinse, etc. Although good cavity performance has been obtained lately by various post-EP cleaning methods, the detailed nature about the surface contaminants is still not fully characterized. Further efforts in this area are desired. Prior x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses of EPed niobium samples treated with fresh EP acid, demonstrated that the surfaces were covered mainly with the niobium oxide (Nb2O5) along with carbon, in addition a small quantity of sulfur and fluorine were also found in secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) analysis. In this article, the authors present the analyses of surface contaminations for a series of EPed niobium samples located at various positions of a single cell niobium cavity followed by ultrapure water rinsing as well as our endeavor to understand the aging effect of EP acid solution in terms of contaminations presence at the inner surface of the cavity with the help of surface analytical tools such as XPS, SIMS, and scanning electron microscope at KEK.
New spiral molecular drag stage design for high compression ratio, compact turbomolecular-drag pumps
Authors: Giors S. , Campagna L. , Emelli E.
Published: June 2010

Currently, commercially available turbo-drag pumps for high vacuum systems are based on either Gaede- or Holweck-type molecular drag pumping stages used in series downstream of axial bladed stages to extend the maximum compression ratio up to the 10 mbar foreline pressure range. Modern Gaede-type molecular drag stages use a disk-shaped impeller, allowing a very compact design, and the maximum compression ratio is limited by the leakage effect to about 10 per stage. Holweck stages are able to supply a high pumping speed, thanks to the presence of many channels in parallel and a high compression ratio, but this is obtained with the use of a less compact drum-shaped impeller. In this article, a new spiral molecular drag stage design is presented with the advantages of both high compression ratio and pumping speed per stage and very compact design: a stage occupying the very small axial space of one Gaede can supply the same compression ratio and pumping speed of a Holweck stage of the same diameter and peripheral speed in a much smaller axial space. The new spiral drag stage allows the design of very compact, high compression ratio turbo-drag pumps. The comparison of a 700 l/s turbo-drag pump implementing the new spiral molecular drag pump design with the existing Gaede- and Holweck-based products of the same pumping speed is presented, showing the performance advantages of the new design.
Correlation of structure and hardness of rf magnetron sputtered silicon carbonitride films
Authors: Bhattacharyya A. S. , Mishra S. K. , Mukherjee S.
Published: June 2010

Ternary nanocomposite silicon carbonitride (SiCN) ceramic coatings have shown potential for wear resistance, oxidation resistance, hardness, tunable band gap, and chemical inertness applications. A systematic investigation on the deposition of SiCN nanocomposite coatings by sputtering under varying deposition conditions such as chamber pressure, substrate temperature by structural, nanoindentation, and microstructural studies of optimized condition has been presented. Significant role of different deposition parameter on the mechanical and structural properties were observed. The structural characterizations of the coatings were carried out using Fourier transformed infra red (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscope. An increase in argon-nitrogen pressure in the range of 1–5 Pa led to lowering of particle size and surface smoothening and growth of hard phases of β-C3N4 and β-Si3N4. An increase in substrate temperature from room temperature to 500 °C led to nucleation and growth of hard phases of β-C3N4 and Si3N4 in the amorphous SiCN matrix. The nanoindentation studies showed the variation in hardness and Young’s modulus from 8 to 22 GPa and from 100 to 240 GPa, respectively, dependent on the deposition conditions. The FTIR studies confirmed the presence of CN, SiN, SiSi, SiO, and SiC in different films.
Microplasma-assisted growth of colloidal Ag nanoparticles for point-of-use surface-enhanced Raman scattering applications
Authors: Chang Fang-Chia , Richmonds Carolyn , Sankaran R. Mohan
Published: June 2010

The authors present a facile, rapid, one-step process to synthesize Ag nanoparticle for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) applications. Aqueous metal ions are electrochemically reduced by a microplasma to nucleate nanoparticles at ambient conditions (room temperature and atmospheric pressure) without any chemical reducing agents or stabilizer molecules. The nanoparticles are characterized by UV-visible absorbance and transmission electron microscopy, and found to be spherical, crystalline, and uniform with an average diameter of approximately 10 nm. Preparing nanoparticles with only a target analyte molecule present in solution allows intimate interaction between the metal particle surface and the analyte. Raman analysis shows that the scattered signal from a test molecule, crystal violet, is dependent on the process time and maximized after nanoparticles are grown for 20 min. This optimal SERS signal is large and permits detection of an analyte down to 10−10M concentrations.
Coating growth behavior during the plasma electrolytic oxidation process
Authors: Hussein R. O. , Northwood D. O. , Nie X.
Published: June 2010

In this study, aluminum oxide was deposited on an Al alloy substrate to produce hard ceramic coatings using a plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) process working at atmospheric pressure. The process utilizes dc and unipolar pulsed dc in the frequency range 0.2–20 kHz. Optical emission spectroscopy was employed to study the species and electron temperature of the plasma. The morphology and microstructure of the coatings were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. It was found that in the first 12 min of the PEO process, the plasma electron temperature increased with the applied voltage during the experiments, the plasma electron temperature was found to be in the range 4000–9000 K, and the applied voltage to the electrodes ranged up to 550–600 V for the different current modes. The plasma temperature profile exhibits a wider peak temperature spike for the dc power mode than for the pulsed dc mode, indicating that the dc plasma discharges would provide longer sintering time. The pulsed dc mode increases the spike temperature up to 8700 K but does not necessarily enhance the coating growth. The high spike temperature generated by strong discharges likely melts the oxide and then traps gas into the melt pool, resulting in some porosity at the interface. By eliminating the high temperature spike, a denser interface layer and homogenous coating morphology are produced.
Translating the Genomic Architecture of Breast Cancer into Clinical Applications
Authors: Horlings Hugo M. , Savci-Heijink C. Dilara , van de Vijver Marc J.
Published: June 2010

An objective score of structural alterations in tumor chromosomes gives prognostic information about breast cancer.
New Advances in Gene Therapy: The Use of MGMT
P140K
-Mediated Stem Cell Selection in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Bremer Andrew A.
Published: June 2010

In vivo selection with MGMT
P140K
enhances gene transfer efficiency in nonhuman primates, demonstrating the utility of this system for a variety of human conditions amenable to autologous gene-modified cell therapy.
Dark Matter Revealed
Authors: Damani Samir
Published: June 2010

Rare variants in the sialic acid acetylesterase gene result in substantial risk for common autoimmune conditions.
Going Organic Yields a Super Model System
Authors: LaMarco Kelly
Published: June 2010

A new organ-on-a chip microdevice models the human alveolar-capillary interface—the key functional unit of the living lung—and mimics organ-level functions.
Inferring the Evolutionary History of the Plant Pathogen Pseudomonas syringae from Its Biogeography in Headwaters of Rivers in North America, Europe, and New Zealand
Authors: Morris C. E. , Sands D. C. , Vanneste J. L. , Montarry J. , Oakley B. , Guilbaud C. , Glaux C.
Published: June 2010

Nonhost environmental reservoirs of pathogens play key roles in their evolutionary ecology and in particular in the evolution of pathogenicity. In light of recent reports of the plant pathogen
Pseudomonas syringae
in pristine waters outside agricultural regions and its dissemination via the water cycle, we have examined the genetic and phenotypic diversity, population structure, and biogeography of
P. syringae
from headwaters of rivers on three continents and their phylogenetic relationship to strains from crops. A collection of 236 strains from 11 sites in the United States, in France, and in New Zealand was characterized for genetic diversity based on housekeeping gene sequences and for phenotypic diversity based on measures of pathogenicity and ice nucleation activity. Phylogenetic analyses revealed several new genetic clades from water. The genetic structure of
P. syringae
populations was not influenced by geographic location or water chemistry, whereas the phenotypic structure was affected by these parameters. Comparison with strains from crops revealed that the metapopulation of
P. syringae
is structured into three genetic ecotypes: a crop-specific type, a water-specific type, and an abundant ecotype found in both habitats. Aggressiveness of strains was significantly and positively correlated with ice nucleation activity. Furthermore, the ubiquitous genotypes were the most aggressive, on average. The abundance and diversity in water relative to crops suggest that adaptation to the freshwater habitat has played a nonnegligible role in the evolutionary history of
P. syringae
. We discuss how adaptation to the water cycle is linked to the epidemiological success of this plant pathogen.

IMPORTANCE
Many pathogens have life cycles that involve survival and multiplication in nonhost environmental habitats. For human pathogens, numerous studies have revealed how adaptation to environmental habitats is linked to the evolution of their pathogenicity and emergence of pathogens. For plant pathogens, the link between adaptation to nonhost habitats and pathogenicity has not been explored. Here we have examined the genetic and phenotypic diversity of the plant pathogen
Pseudomonas syringae
in headwaters of rivers on three continents and compared it to that of strains from crops. This model pathogen was chosen because it is widely abundant in habitats associated with the water cycle and in particular in pristine waters outside agricultural regions. This work reveals that there is considerable exchange of populations between freshwater and agricultural habitats and that those in the former contribute considerably to the diversification of
P. syringae
.
Biochemical analysis of the stress protein response in human oesophageal epithelium
Authors: Hopwood D , Moitra S , Vojtesek B , Johnston D A , Dillon J F , Hupp T R
Published: June 2010

Background—The oesophageal epithelium is exposed routinely to noxious agents in the environment, including gastric acid, thermal stress, and chemical toxins. These epithelial cells have presumably evolved effective protective mechanisms to withstand tissue damage and repair injured cells. Heat shock protein or stress protein responses play a central role in protecting distinct cell types from different types of injury.

Aim—To determine (i) whether biochemical analysis of stress protein responses in pinch biopsy specimens from human oesophageal epithelium is feasible; (ii) whether undue stresses are imposed on cells by the act of sample collection, thus precluding analysis of stress responses; and (iii) if amenable to experimentation, the type of heat shock protein (Hsp) response that operates in the human oesophageal epithelium.

Methods—Tissue from the human oesophagus comprised predominantly of squamous epithelium was acquired within two hours of biopsy and subjected to an in vitro heat shock. Soluble tissue cell lysates derived from untreated or heat shocked samples were examined using denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for changes in: (i) the pattern of general protein synthesis by labelling epithelial cells with 35S-methionine and (ii) the levels of soluble Hsp70 protein and related isoforms using immunochemical protein blots.

Results—A single pinch biopsy specimen is sufficient to extract and analyse specific sets of polypeptides in the oesophageal epithelium. After ex vivo heat shock, a classic inhibition of general protein synthesis is observed and correlates with the increased synthesis of two major proteins of molecular weight of 60 and 70 kDa. Notably, cells from unheated controls exhibit a “stressed” biochemical state 22 hours after incubation at 37°C, as shown by inhibition of general protein synthesis and increased synthesis of the 70 kDa protein. These data indicate that only freshly acquired specimens are suitable for studying stress responses ex vivo. No evidence was found that the two heat induced polypeptides are previously identified Hsp70 isoforms. In fact, heat shock results in a reduction in the steady state concentrations of Hsp70 protein in the oesophageal epithelium.

Conclusion—Systematic and highly controlled studies on protein biochemistry are possible on epithelial biopsy specimens from the human oesophagus. These technical innovations have permitted the discovery of a novel heat shock response operating in the oesophageal epithelium. Notably, two polypeptides were synthesised after heat shock that seem to differ from Hsp70 protein. In addition, the striking reduction in steady state concentrations of Hsp70 protein after heat shock suggests that oesophageal epithelium has evolved an atypical biochemical response to thermal stress.
Induction of intestinal lesions in nu/nu mice induced by transfer of lymphocytes from syngeneic mice infected with murine retrovirus
Authors: Suzuki K , Narita T , Yui R , Ohtsuka K , Inada S , Kimura T , Okada Y , Makino M , Mizuochi T , Asakura H , Fujiwara M
Published: June 2010

Background—Murine leukemia virus, LP-BM5, induces severe immunodeficiency with abnormal lymphoproliferation in susceptible C57BL/6 mice. In a previous study, it was shown that a Sjögren’s syndrome-like systemic exocrinopathy is induced in the virus infected mice.

Aims—To examine lymphocyte functions of the virus infected mice.

Methods—Four-week old mice were inoculated with the virus and their spleen cells were transferred into syngeneic nu/nu mice. Their organs were examined by light and electron microscopy. Phenotypes of the colon infiltrating cells were examined by flow cytometry.

Results—All nu/nu recipients had died by six weeks after cell transfer, showing runting disease like cachexia with diarrhoea and anal bleeding. Histopathological examination revealed that systemic exocrinopathy was adoptively transferable and that the colon became thickened due to mononuclear cell infiltration into the mucosal and submucosal layer with hyperplasia of intestinal epithelial cells. No virus particles were found in the colon. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that most of the infiltrating CD4+ T cells showed CD45RBlow. No intestinal lesions were observed in the virus infected mice nor in nu/nu mice inoculated with normal lymphocytes.

Conclusion—Lymphocytes of the virus infected mice induced colitis and hyperplasia of intestinal epithelial cells as well as systemic exocrinopathy in nu/nu mice. Our experimental system may give some insight into intestinal lesions associated with virus infection.
Paradoxical sphincter contraction is rarely indicative of anismus
Authors: Voderholzer W A , Neuhaus D A , Klauser A G , Tzavella K , Müller-Lissner S A , Schindlbeck N E
Published: June 2010

Background—Anismus is thought to be a cause of chronic constipation by producing outlet obstruction. The underlying mechanism is paradoxical contraction of the anal sphincter or puborectalis muscle. However, paradoxical sphincter contraction (PSC) also occurs in healthy controls, so anismus may be diagnosed too often because it may be based on a non-specific finding related to untoward conditions during the anorectal examination.

Aims—To investigate the pathophysiological importance of PSC found at anorectal manometry in constipated patients and in patients with stool incontinence.

Methods—Digital rectal examination and anorectal manometry were performed in 102 chronically constipated patients, 102 patients with stool incontinence, and in 18 controls without anorectal disease. In 120 of the 222 subjects defaecography was also performed. Paradoxical sphincter contraction was defined as a sustained increase in sphincter pressure during straining. Anismus was assumed when PSC was present on anorectal manometry and digital rectal examination and the anorectal angle did not widen on defaecography.

Results—Manometric PSC occurred about twice as often in constipated patients as in incontinent patients (41.2% versus 25.5%, p<0.017) and its prevalence was similar in incontinent patients and controls (25.5% versus 22.2%). Oroanal or rectosigmoid transit times in constipated patients with and without PSC did not differ significantly (total 64.6 (8.9) hours versus 54.2 (8.1) hours; rectosigmoid 14.9 (2.4) hours versus 13.8 (2.5) hours).

Conclusions—Paradoxical sphincter contraction is a common finding in healthy controls as well as in patients with chronic constipation and stool incontinence. Hence, PSC is primarily a laboratory artefact and true anismus is rare.
Non-alcoholic duct destructive chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Ectors N , Maillet B , Aerts R , Geboes K , Donner A , Borchard F , Lankisch P , Stolte M , Lüttges J , Kremer B , Klöppel G
Published: June 2010

Background—The pathology of non-alcoholic chronic pancreatitis has not yet been sufficiently studied.

Aims—To identify the major changes of pancreatic tissue in patients surgically treated for non-alcoholic chronic pancreatitis.

Patients—Pancreatectomy specimens from 12 patients with non-alcoholic chronic pancreatitis, including four patients with autoimmune or related diseases (Sjögren’s syndrome, primary sclerosing cholangitis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease), were reviewed.

Methods—Morphological changes were studied histologically and immunohistochemically (to type inflammatory cells) and compared with the pancreatic alterations found in 12 patients with alcoholic chronic pancreatitis.

Results—In patients with non-alcoholic chronic pancreatitis, with or without associated autoimmune or related diseases, pancreatic inflammation particularly involved the ducts, commonly resulting in duct obstruction and occasionally duct destruction. None of these features was seen in alcoholic chronic pancreatitis which, however, showed pseudocysts and calcifications.

Conclusion—The pancreatic changes in patients with non-alcoholic chronic pancreatitis clearly differ from those with alcoholic chronic pancreatitis. The term chronic duct destructive pancreatitis is suggested for this type of pancreatic disease.
Autoimmune hepatitis: a histological variant associated with prominent centrilobular necrosis
Authors: Te H S , Koukoulis G , Ganger D R
Published: June 2010

A patient presented with pruritus and recent elevation of aminotransferases. The case fulfilled most of the criteria for the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis and achieved clinical and complete biochemical response to steroid therapy. However, the liver biopsy specimen revealed an unusual histological pattern consisting of severe centrilobular necrosis demarcated by a thin rim of hepatitic reaction. In contrast, the portal tracts appeared almost normal. This histological appearance has not been associated with autoimmune hepatitis. This presentation and the histology may represent an early pattern of autoimmune injury to the liver.
Oesophageal tone in patients with achalasia
Authors: González M , Mearin F , Vasconez C , Armengol J-R , Malagelada J-R
Published: June 2010

Background—The diagnosis and classification of oesophageal motility disorders is currently based on assessment of the phasic contractile activity of the oesophagus. Tonic muscular contraction of the oesophageal body (oesophageal tone) has not been well characterised.

Aim—To quantify oesophageal tonic activity in healthy subjects and in patients with achalasia.

Patients—Oesophageal tone was measured in 14 patients with untreated achalasia and in 14 healthy subjects. In eight patients with achalasia, oesophageal tone was again measured one month after either endoscopic or surgical treatment.

Methods—Tonic wall activity was quantified by means of a flaccid intraoesophageal bag, 5 cm long and of 120 ml maximal capacity, which was placed and maintained 5 cm above the lower oesophageal sphincter and connected to an external electronic barostat. The experimental design included measurement of oesophageal basal tone and compliance as well as the oesophageal tone response to a nitric oxide donor (0.5 ml amyl nitrite inhalation).

Results—Oesophageal basal tone, expressed as the intrabag (intraoesophageal) volume at a minimal distending pressure (2 mm Hg), did not differ significantly between patients with achalasia and healthy controls (6.6 (2.5) ml versus 4.1 (0.8) ml, respectively). Oesophageal compliance (volume/pressure relation during intraoesophageal distension) was significantly increased in achalasia (oesophageal extension ratio: 3.2 (0.4) ml/mm Hg versus 1.9 (0.2) ml/mm Hg; p< 0.01). Amyl nitrite inhalation induced oesophageal relaxation both in patients and in controls, but the magnitude of relaxation was greater in the latter (intrabag volume increase: 15.3 (2.4) ml versus 36.2 (7.1) ml; p<0.01).

Conclusion—In patients with achalasia, oesophageal tonic activity, and not only phasic activity, is impaired. Although oesophageal compliance is increased, residual oesophageal tone is maintained so that a significant relaxant response may occur after pharmacological stimulation.
Ten years’ experience of screening patients with Barrett’s oesophagus in a university teaching hospital
Authors: Macdonald C E , Wicks A C , Playford R J
Published: June 2010

Background—Barrett’s metaplasia is a premalignant condition for which screening is recommended.

Aims/methods—Annual screening endoscopies have been performed on all subjects suitable for surgery for many years. To examine the benefits to patients of continuing this policy 10 years’ experience of screening for Barrett’s oesophagus was reviewed.

Results—Of the 29 374 endoscopies performed over this period, Barrett’s metaplasia was present in 1.4%. There was an approximate equal sex distribution with the majority of cases being identified in patients over 50 years old. Thirty five per cent of these patients were suitable to enter a yearly screening programme. During screening, the length of oesophagus involved did not vary over time. As a result of 379 endoscopies performed for screening purposes, only one patient was identified as developing carcinoma solely as a result of the screening programme. Two further patients had carcinoma identified as a result of progressive dysphagia requiring additional endoscopies. All three patients who developed carcinoma while in the screening programme had “long segment” (>8 cm) regions of Barrett’s metaplasia with a stricture present at the initial endoscopy.

Conclusions—The poor yield from this screening programme suggests that the policy should be reconsidered. Resources may be better spent on focusing on patients who present with ulceration or stricture in addition to Barrett’s metaplasia.
Influence of cholecystectomy on sphincter of Oddi motility
Authors: Luman W , Williams A J K , Pryde A , Smith G D , Nixon S J , Heading R C , Palmer K R
Published: June 2010

Background—Gall bladder and sphincter of Oddi (SO) function are coordinated by hormonal and neuronal mechanisms. Nerve fibres pass between the gall bladder and the SO via the cystic duct. It is therefore possible that cholecystectomy may alter SO motility.

Aim—To investigate the effect of cholecystectomy on SO function

Methods—SO manometry was performed in five women (median age 52 years), a few days before and six months after laparoscopic cholecystectomy which was undertaken for uncomplicated cholelithiasis. Basal and post-cholecystokinin (CCK) SO motility were measured.

Results—All patients were symptom free after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Prior to surgery common bile duct pressure, and tonic and phasic SO motility were normal and phasic contractions were inhibited by intravenous CCK (1 Ivy Dog Unit/kg). Six months later, common bile duct pressure and baseline tonic and phasic activity were unchanged but CCK failed to suppress phasic activity.

Conclusion—Cholecystectomy, at least in the short term, suppresses the normal inhibitory effect of pharmacological doses of CCK on the SO. The mechanism of this effect is unknown but it could be due to SO denervation.
Predictors of health care seeking for irritable bowel syndrome: a population based study
Authors: Talley N J , Boyce P M , Jones M
Published: June 2010

Background—It has been suggested that psychological factors rather than symptoms drive subjects with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to seek medical care, but this issue has not been tackled in a population based study.

Aim—To identify whether psychological factors or abuse explain health care seeking for IBS.

Methods—A sample of residents of Penrith (a Sydney suburb representative of the Australian population) selected randomly from the electoral rolls (that by law include the entire population ⩾18 years) was mailed a validated self-report questionnaire. Measured were gastrointestinal symptoms including the Manning (and Rome) criteria for IBS, health care seeking, neuroticism (Eysenck Personality Questionnaire), psychological morbidity (General Health Questionnaire: GHQ) and sexual, physical and emotional abuse (including the standardised Drossman questions).

Results—Among 730 subjects, 96 (13%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 11–16%) had IBS by the Manning criteria. Of those with IBS, 73% (95% CI 63–81%) had sought medical care for abdominal pain or discomfort. Only increasing pain severity (odds ratio (OR) = 2.10, 95% CI 1.11–3.95) and duration of pain (OR=1.53, 95% CI 1.10–2.13) were independently associated with seeking health care for IBS. Pain severity was also predictive of recent care seeking (OR=1.74, 95% CI 1.12–1.96). Neuroticism, psychological morbidity and abuse history were not significant predictors.

Conclusion—Psychological factors do not seem to explain health care seeking among community subjects with IBS.
Hyperferritinaemia in the absence of iron overload
Authors: Arnold J D , Mumford A D , Lindsay J O , Hegde U , Hagan M , Hawkins J R
Published: June 2010

Background—Serum ferritin is normally a marker of iron overload. Ferritin genes are sited at chromosomes 19 and 11. Regulation of ferritin synthesis involves an interaction between an iron regulatory protein (IRP) and part of the ferritin mRNA designated the iron regulatory element (IRE). A disorder of ferritin synthesis resulting in hyperferritinaemia in the absence of iron overload has been described recently.

Patients and methods—Hyperferriti- naemia in the absence of iron overload was detected in a patient who was investigated for possible haemochromatosis. Serum iron, transferrin saturation, and ferritin concentration were studied in 11 members of this patient’s family from three generations. Eight members had DNA samples analysed by direct cycle sequencing of the 5′ untranslated region of the L ferritin gene.

Results—Six of the family members studied had serum ferritin concentrations greater than 900 μg/l. However, serum iron and transferrin saturation were normal in these subjects who all had evidence of cataracts. Three affected family members who had genetic studies of the L ferritin gene on chromosome 19 had an A to G point mutation which was not found in unaffected members.

Conclusions—There was complete concordance between a mutated IRE, cataracts, and hyperferritinaemia in three generations of this family. This family study confirms the finding that hereditary hyperferritinaemia in the absence of iron overload is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder.
Peptic ulcer bleeding in the elderly: relative roles ofHelicobacter pylori and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Authors: Cullen D J E , Hawkey G M , Greenwood D C , Humphreys H , Shepherd V , Logan R F A , Hawkey C J
Published: June 2010

Background—Most ulcers are caused, one can deduce, by Helicobcter pylori or by use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Whether both together are worse than one alone is something that is quite unknown.

Aim—To study both factors in order to see whether they interact together positively.

Method—A case control study of ulcer bleeding in elderly patients chosen without weeding.

Results—NSAID usage increased risk substantially. So did H pylori infection (but relative risk less than three). Neither seemed to interact. Their actions were discretely intact.

Conclusion—H pylori effects ulcer bleeding in an adverse manner but does not make the risk of NSAIDs worse.
Prospective evaluation of protein bound vitamin B12(cobalamin) malabsorption in the elderly using trout flesh labelled in vivo with 57Co-cobalamin
Authors: Aimone-Gastin I , Pierson H , Jeandel C , Bronowicki J P , Plénat F , Lambert D , Nabet-Belleville F , Guéant J L
Published: June 2010

Background—The frequency of dietary protein bound vitamin B12 malabsorption in elderly patients remains controversial.

Aims—To evaluate this malabsorption in elderly hospitalised patients using a modified Schilling test.

Patients—Fourteen elderly patients with low B12 blood levels were prospectively selected from 394 hospitalised patients.

Methods—The modified Schilling test was performed with trout labelled in vivo.

Results—The test was normal in five healthy elderly subjects, in 7/8 patients with pancreatic insufficiency, and in nine non-elderly patients with antral gastritis. The low decision limit was established at 3.3% (median 4.8%). From the 14 elderly patients with low B12 prospectively selected from 394 hospitalised patients, seven had a real deficiency with anaemia and an increased homocysteine and/or methylmalonate serum level. The modified Schilling test showed malabsorption in five of these patients, including two in which the standard Schilling test was normal, and three in which the standard Schilling test was partially corrected by an intrinsic factor.

Conclusions—Protein bound vitamin B12malabsorption was detected in at least 0.5% of elderly hospitalised patients, using the labelled trout flesh absorption test.
Prophylactic effect of dietary glutamine supplementation on interleukin 8 and tumour necrosis factor α production in trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid induced colitis
Authors: Ameho C K , Adjei A A , Harrison E K , Takeshita K , Morioka T , Arakaki Y , Ito E , Suzuki I , Kulkarni A D , Kawajiri A , Yamamoto S
Published: June 2010

Background—It is well established that glutamine supplemented elemental diets result in less severe intestinal damage in experimental colitis. However, few studies have examined the mode of action of glutamine in reducing intestinal damage.

Aims—To examine the effects of glutamine supplemented elemental diets on the potent inflammatory cytokines interleukin 8 (IL-8) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis which presents with both acute and chronic features of ulcerative colitis.

Methods—Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised into three dietary groups and fed 20% casein (controls), or 20% casein supplemented with either 2% glutamine (2% Gln) or 4% glutamine (4% Gln). After two weeks they received intracolonic TNBS to induce colitis.

Results—Both Gln groups of rats gained more weight than the control group (p<0.05) which had progressive weight loss. Colon weight, macroscopic, and microscopic damage scores for the Gln groups were lower than in the control group (p<0.05). IL-8 and TNF-α concentrations in inflamed colonic tissues were lower in the Gln groups than in the control group (p<0.05), and correlated well with disease severity. Bacterial translocation was lower both in incidence (p<0.05) and in the number of colony forming units (p<0.05) for the Gln groups, than in the control group. With respect to all indices studied, the 4% Gln group performed better than did the 2% Gln group.

Conclusion—Prophylactic glutamine supplementation modulates the inflammatory activities of IL-8 and TNF-α in TNBS induced colitis.
Is there an excess risk for colorectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis and concomitant primary sclerosing cholangitis? A population based study
Authors: Kornfeld D , Ekbom A , Ihre T
Published: June 2010

Background—Patients with ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Duration, age, and extent of the disease at diagnosis are the only established risk factors. Patients with ulcerative colitis and concomitant primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) have been reported to have a higher frequency of colonic DNA aneuploidy and/or dysplasia than expected, findings indicating an increased risk of colorectal cancer compared with other patients with ulcerative colitis.

Methods—A population based cohort consisting of 125 patients with a verified diagnosis of PSC was followed up by linkage to the Swedish Cancer Registry for the occurrence of colorectal cancer.

Results—There were 12 colorectal cancers. Six cancers were diagnosed prior to the diagnosis of PSC. Among the 104 patients with an intact colon at the time of the diagnosis of PSC there was a cumulative risk for colorectal cancer of 16% after 10 years. Among the 58 patients with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer prior to the diagnosis of PSC, there were five colorectal cancers corresponding to a cumulative risk of 25% after 10 years.

Conclusions—Patients with ulcerative colitis and concomitant PSC seem to constitute a subgroup with a high risk for colorectal cancer.
A multicentre randomised trial comparing octreotide and injection sclerotherapy in the management and outcome of acute variceal haemorrhage
Authors: Jenkins S A , Shields R , Davies M , Elias E , Turnbull A J , Bassendine M F , James O F W , Iredale J P , Vyas S K , Arthur M J P , Kingsnorth A N , Sutton R
Published: June 2010

Background—Few studies have compared vasoactive drugs with endoscopic sclerotherapy in the control of acute variceal haemorrhage. Octreotide is widely used for this purpose, but its value remains undetermined.

Aims—To compare octreotide with endoscopic sclerotherapy for acute variceal haemorrhage.

Patients—Consecutive patients with acute variceal haemorrhage.

Methods—Patients were randomised at endoscopy to receive either a 48 hour intravenous infusion of 50 μg/h octreotide (n=73), or emergency sclerotherapy (n=77).

Results—Overall control of bleeding and mortality was not significantly different between octreotide (85%, 62 patients) and sclerotherapy (82%, 63 patients) over the 48 hour trial period (relative risk of rebleeding 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38 to 1.82), irrespective of Child’s grading or active bleeding at endoscopy. One major complication was observed in the sclerotherapy group (aspiration) and two in the octreotide group (pulmonary oedema, severe paralytic ileus). During 60 days of follow up there was an overall trend towards an increased mortality in the octreotide group which was not statistically significant (relative risk of dying at 60 days 1.91, 95% CI 0.97 to 3.78, p=0.06).

Conclusions—The results of this study indicate that intravenous octreotide is as effective as injection sclerotherapy in the control of acute variceal bleeding, but further controlled trials are necessary to evaluate the safety of this treatment.
Diagnostic value of specific T cell reactivity to drugs in 95 cases of drug induced liver injury
Authors: Maria V A J , Victorino R M M
Published: June 2010

Background—Diagnosis of drug induced liver injury is usually based on a temporal relation between drug intake and clinical picture as well as on the exclusion of alternative causes. More precise diagnosis has been attempted by using in vitro specific T cell reactivity to drugs but the test has never reached general acceptability because of frequent negative results which could be explained, in part, by prostaglandin producing suppressor cells (PPSC).

Aim—To analyse the diagnostic value of a modified test where lymphocyte responses to drugs are detected in the presence of a prostaglandin inhibitor.

Patients—Ninety five patients with a clinical diagnosis of drug induced liver injury, 106 healthy controls, 35 individuals with recent exposure to the same drugs without adverse effects, and 15 patients with liver disease unrelated to drugs.

Methods—Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cultured in the presence of drugs alone and in the presence of drugs and a prostaglandin inhibitor. Responses were assessed by3H-thymidine incorporation in lymphocytes. Results were expressed as counts per minute and as stimulation indexes (SI).

Results—When PBMC were stimulated with drugs alone, lymphocyte sensitisation to drugs (SI>2) was detected in 26% of the cases. This was noticeably increased (56%) when a prostaglandin inhibitor was added to the cultures. No reactivity was found in controls. In patients with possible sensitivity to several drugs, lymphocyte reactivity was detected to only one drug. The severity of the lesions, as assessed by aminotransferase concentrations and disease duration, was lower in patients with evidence of PPSC.

Conclusions—This new approach is useful for the diagnosis of drug induced liver injury, particularly in patients exposed to more than one drug; furthermore, the presence of putative PPSC is associated with less severe forms of drug induced hepatitis.
Monozygotic twins with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: a unique case report
Authors: Breslin N P , Todd A , Kilgallen C , O’Morain C
Published: June 2010

Background—A large number of monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs with inflammatory bowel disease have been reported. To date no twin pair has developed phenotypically discordant inflammatory bowel disease. This case report is the first documented occurrence of discordant inflammatory bowel disease occurring in monozygotic twins.

Case report—Twenty two year old identical male twins presented within three months of each other with inflammatory bowel disease that proved to be discordant in overall disease type, disease distribution, clinical course, and histopathological findings. Twin 1 developed a severe pancolitis necessitating total colectomy while twin 2 developed a predominantly distal patchy colitis with frequent granulomas, controlled by aminosalicylates. Twin 1 was antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) negative at the time of testing while twin 2 (Crohn’s disease) was ANCA positive. Significantly, the twins possessed the HLA type DR3-DR52-DQ2 previously associated with extensive colitis.

Conclusion—This case report confirms the important role played by genetic factors in the development of inflammatory bowel disease. It also highlights the crucial role of undetermined environmental agents in dictating disease expression and phenotype.
Increased incidence of biliary sludge and normal gall bladder contractility in patients with high spinal cord injury
Authors: Tandon R K , Jain R K , Garg P K
Published: June 2010

Background—Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) have an increased prevalence of gallstones.

Aims—To study prospectively the incidence of gallstones and gall bladder contractility in patients with SCI.

Patients and methods—Thirty six consecutive patients with SCI were studied: 18 patients with SCI above thoracic 10 neuronal segment (>T10) and 18 patients with SCI below T10 (<T10). An equal number each of disease controls (multiple fractures) and healthy controls were also studied. All patients and controls underwent serial ultrasonography to detect development of gallstones and ultrasonographic measurement of gall bladder contractility.

Results—A significantly higher number (9/18) of patients with SCI >T10 developed biliary sludge compared with patients with SCI <T10 (2/18), disease controls (2/18), and healthy controls (1/18) (p<0.05). No patient developed gallstones. The gall bladder fasting volume was significantly decreased in patients with SCI >T10 (20.56 ml; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 19.74 to 21.38) compared with that in patients with SCI <T10 (27.33 ml, 95% CI 26.17 to 28.49; p<0.05), disease controls (27.92 ml, 95% CI 26.69 to 29.15; p<0.05), and healthy controls (28.35 ml, 95% CI 27.25 to 29.45; p<0.05). Gall bladder contractility was normal in patients with SCI as shown by normal gall bladder residual volume and emptying time.

Conclusions—Patients with SCI above T10 have an increased incidence of biliary sludge and a decreased gall bladder fasting volume. Gall bladder contractility is, however, normal.