bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Surgeon‐performed Ultrasound in Parathyroid Localization
Authors: Van Husen Russell , Kim Lawrence T.
Published: October 2004

Ultrasound is one of the preferred modalities for localization of abnormal parathyroids. Accuracy of ultrasound is technician‐dependent. This study was undertaken to determine the accuracy of surgeon‐performed ultrasound (SPU) for the localization of parathyroid tumors in comparison to radiology‐performed ultrasound (RPU) and nuclear scintigraphy (NS). In this series 74 consecutive patients with untreated primary hyperparathyroidism underwent SPU at the initial clinic visit; 21 of these patients did not undergo surgery and are excluded from the analysis. Of the 53 patients remaining, RPU was obtained in 26, and 52 patients underwent NS. Directed parathyroidectomy was performed with use of the intraoperative parathyroid hormone assay (IOPTH). In all, 46 patients had a single adenoma as indicated by IOPTH and final pathology. Two patients had double gland disease, and 5 patients had multi‐gland hyperplasia. The sensitivity of SPU was 82% and the specificity was 90% in detecting the diseased glands on the correct side (right versus left). The sensitivity for RPU was 42% and the specificity was 92% (n = 26). The sensitivity of NS was 44% and the specificity was 98% (n = 52). In only one case did RPU or NS detect a gland not found by SPU. SPU can be done with accuracy comparable to other ultrasound series in the literature, and it may be superior to RPU or NS in some institutions. It is important for surgeons to be aware of local institutional expertise when relying on RPU and NS during preoperative evaluation prior to directed parathyroidectomy.
Does Robotic Adrenalectomy Improve Patient Quality of Life When Compared to Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy?
Authors: Brunaud Laurent , Bresler Laurent , Zarnegar Rasa , Ayav Ahmet , Cormier Luc , Tretou Sebastien , Boissel Patrick
Published: October 2004

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare perioperative quality of life in patients after laparoscopic versus robotic adrenalectomy. From November 2000 through August 2003, 33 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic (n = 14) and robotic (n = 19) adrenalectomy. Data were obtained prospectively during management and by patient questionnaire (SF36, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory) preoperatively and postoperatively, at day 4 and at 6 weeks. Physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health problems, and bodily pain (Physical SF36 scores) were decreased at day 4 (p = 0.004) in all patients when compared to preoperative levels; and became similar to preoperative levels after 6 weeks. Patients who underwent robotic adrenalectomy had an increased score at 6 weeks of role limitations due to emotional problems (Mental SF36 score) (p = 0.03). No other significant difference was observed between patients after laparoscopic or robotic adrenalectomy. Although state anxiety was decreased postoperatively at day 4 and at 6 weeks (p = 0.01) in all patients, there was no significant difference between laparoscopic and robotic adrenalectomy. Postoperative pain was similar in both groups but had a tendency to be higher when patients underwent a left adrenalectomy (p = 0.07). Similarly, state anxiety had a tendency to be higher postoperatively at day 4 in patients after left adrenalectomies (p = 0.06). This study provides an evaluation of perioperative quality of life in patients after minimally invasive (laparoscopic and/or robotic) adrenalectomy. We observed no major difference between patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic adrenalectomy. Thus, patients’ perioperative quality of life is not a justifiable parameter on which to base promotion of robotic adrenalectomies.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 Parathyroid Adenoma Development over Time
Authors: Doherty Gerard M. , Lairmore Terry C. , DeBenedetti Mary K.
Published: October 2004

Multiple gland parathyroid disease is one of the hallmarks of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 1. Often mislabeled parathyroid hyperplasia, the process is actually the development of multiple adenomas. Some clinicians have reported results of selective parathyroidectomy in this group, removing only grossly enlarged glands. We argue that all the glands are at risk and should be addressed at any planned parathyroid intervention. Our hypothesis is that, given sufficient time, patients would all develop adenomas in each of the parathyroid glands. Our available data to address this issue are the parathyroidectomy results from a single institution series. Patients who had initial parathyroid exploration for hyperparathyroidism in the setting of MEN‐1 were reviewed. This study includes those patients who had the weights of the resected glands documented; 23 men and 21 women met the criteria. The total weight of the parathyroid glands did not vary with the age of the patient at operation. However, the number of normal glands identified did vary significantly with age (p < 0.02), with older patients being less likely to have any normal parathyroid glands. Although total parathyroid weight may correlate with development of hypercalcemia and indications for operation, the involvement of multiple parathyroid glands in MEN‐1 is a function of time, as independent events in each gland must occur. Given time, MEN‐1 patients all develop multiple gland disease, and this reality must be used in planning operative management for patients with this syndrome.
Clinical Analysis of Thyroid Cancer in Adult Patients Exposed to Ionizing Radiation due to the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident: 5‐Year Comparative Investigations Based on the Results of Surgical Treatment
Authors: Cherenko Sergiy M. , Larin Oleksandr S. , Gorobeyko Maksim B. , Sichynava Rivaz M.
Published: October 2004

The aim of study was to compare clinical and pathologic findings of surgically removed thyroid tumors in adults with or without history of irradiation due to the Chernobyl accident. From 1990 to 2003, 2363 adults with no evidence of radiation influence in their history (group A) have undergone operation for thyroid nodules. During the same period, 311 patients (born before 1969) with strict evidence of Chernobyl irradiation also underwent operation (group B). Both groups were similar in age, sex, and preoperative examination. Group B represented three of the four official categories of people affected by the Chernobyl accident: 1–recovery operation workers; 2–people evacuated from the restricted area; 3–inhabitants of contaminated areas. The rate of thyroid carcinoma among all cases of thyroid nodules was significantly higher in group B—32.8% (102 patients) versus 27.2% (644 patients) in group A (p < 0.05). But a more distinct difference was observed in 1 and 2 categories of group B patients (the rate of cancer was, correspondingly, 54.8% and 47.8%; p < 0.01). The percentage of the invasive form of cancer (T4) was significantly higher in irradiated patients–39% versus 23% (p < 0.05) as were regional metastases (N1a‐1b)—41% versus 19% (p < 0.01) and frequency of multifocality (33% versus 24%; p < 0.05). The most distinguished features were found in 1 category of group B: T4—in 47%, N1a‐1b —in 62%, multifocality—in 41%. Our results suggest the irradiation as a cause of thyroid cancer in adult victims of Chernobyl and confirm the increasing aggressiveness of such tumors.
Surgical Management of Amiodarone‐associated Thyrotoxicosis: Mayo Clinic Experience
Authors: Houghton Scott G. , Farley David R. , Brennan Michael D. , van Heerden Jon A. , Thompson Geoffrey B. , Grant Clive S.
Published: October 2004

Amiodarone‐associated thyrotoxicosis (AAT) is often poorly tolerated owing to underlying cardiac disease, and it is frequently refractory to conventional medical treatment. The goal of this study was to describe the patient characteristics, management, and outcomes of all the patients treated surgically for AAT at a single institution. We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients managed surgically for AAT (April 1985 through November 2002) at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Altogether, 29 men and 5 women, ages 39 to 85 years (median 60 years), treated with amiodarone for 3 to 108 months underwent near‐total or total thyroidectomy. Frequent symptoms were worsening heart failure, fatigue, weight loss, and tremor. Altogether, 12 patients failed medical management of their AAT, and 21 received no preoperative medical therapy. One patient had been successfully managed medically but required definitive treatment. Common indications for operation were the need to remain on amiodarone, cardiac decompensation, medically refractory disease, and severe symptoms, both hyperthyroid and cardiac, necessitating prompt resolution. The median ± SD American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification (1 = healthy through 5 = moribund) was 3.00 ± 0.58. A total of 27 specimens had histology consistent with AAT. Complications included death (n = 3), rehospitalization (n = 3), symptomatic hypocalcemia (n = 2), pneumonia (n = 2), cervical hematoma (n = 1), prolonged ventilatory wean (n = 1), and stroke (n = 1); one patient developed hypotension, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and sepsis. Of the 31 surviving patients, 25 (80%) remained on amiodarone postoperatively. The median follow‐up was 29 months, at which time all surviving patients were free of hyperthyroid symptoms. Thyroidectomy is an effective treatment for AAT but has a high incidence of perioperative morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular co‐morbidities and high operative risk in this group of patients may account for the increased complication rate.
Predictive Factors for Recurrence from a Series of 74 Children and Adolescents with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Borson‐Chazot Francoise , Causeret Sylvain , Lifante Jean‐Christophe , Augros Marylin , Berger Nicole , Peix Jean‐Louis
Published: October 2004

The influence of clinical and treatment factors on the risk of recurrence was analyzed from a retrospective series of 74 children and adolescents with thyroid cancer (55 girls, 19 boys; age 2–20 years). Two groups, comparable in terms of age, sex, and previous radiotherapy, were compared according to the presence (group 1) or absence (group 2) of cervical lymph nodes identified by palpation or ultrasonography. Total thyroidectomy (TT) with lymph node dissection (LND) was performed in the 19 group 1 patients, whereas in group 2 patients (n = 55) lobectomy was performed in 29, TT in 26, and LND in 7. Pathology studies showed papillary thyroid carcinoma in 95% of cases. In group 1, tumors were more frequently multifocal (89% vs. 16% in group 2), invasive with extension beyond the thyroid capsule (68% vs. 5% in group 2), and of the diffuse sclerosing variety (63% vs. 4% in group 2) (p < 0.001). With a median follow‐up of 61 months, lymph node recurrence was seen in 53% of group 1 patients and in no patients in group 2. Three group 2 patients (10%) were reoperated for a local recurrence after lobectomy. Risk factors for reintervention were young age (< 15 years) (p < 0.01) and cervical lymph nodes (p < 0.001). Survivals without reintervention at 5 and 10 years were, respectively, 58% and 38% for group 1 and 94% and 90% for group 2 (p < 0.001). At the time of analysis, 68% of group 1 patients and 98% of group 2 patients were in remission. In conclusion, the presence of palpable cervical lymph nodes at diagnosis is associated with more invasive forms of malignancy and is a predictive factor of recurrence regardless of the extent of the initial surgery.
Preoperative Neck Ultrasonographic Mapping for Persistent/Recurrent Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: BinYousef Hussam M. , Alzahrani Ali S. , Al‐Sobhi Saif S. , Al Suhaibani Hamed S. , Chaudhari Mohammed A. , Raef Hussain M.
Published: October 2004

Surgical resection of persistent/recurrent (P/R) papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), when localized to the neck, is generally recommended; however, its impact on the course of the disease is not clear. We introduced a new technique in the form of preoperative neck ultrasonographic mapping (US‐M) to improve the outcome of the surgical resection of P/R PTC. A total of 19 patients had undergone regional (central, lateral, or both) neck dissection before introducing the current technique (group 1, or G1), and 26 patients (group 2, or G2) had limited lymph node resection guided by US‐M with findings accurately plotted on a standard diagram. All of the operations were performed by a single surgeon. The surgical outcomes of the two groups were compared. The resected lesions were positive for PTC in 17 patients (89.5%) in G1 and in 25 patients (96.2%) in G2. In G2, the intraoperative findings exactly matched the US‐M in 23 patients (88.5%). Postoperatively, neck US became negative in 50% in G1 and in 83.3% in G2 (p = 0.02). Thyroglobulin (Tg) became undetectable in 37.5% in G1 and 52.3% in G2 (p = 0.37). Whole‐body iodine scans (WBS) became negative in one of six patients (16.7%) in G1, and in three of four patients (75%) in G2, (p = 0.06). After a mean follow‐up of 23.8 ± 7.1 months in G1 and 9.8 ± 4.7 months in G2, 6 patients (31.6%) in G1 and 15 patients (62.5%) in G2 were in remission (p = 0.04), whereas the disease persisted in 13 cases (68.4%) in G1 and 9 (37.5%) in G2 (p = 0.04). In conclusion, US‐M improved the surgical outcome, as evidenced by the postoperative US, Tg, and WBS findings and the higher remission rate for the G2 patients than for the G1 patients.
Papillary Microcarcinoma of the Thyroid: How Should It Be Treated?
Authors: Ito Yasuhiro , Tomoda Chisato , Uruno Takashi , Takamura Yuuki , Miya Akihiro , Kobayashi Kaoru , Matsuzuka Fumio , Kuma Kanji , Miyauchi Akira
Published: October 2004

We previously demonstrated that (1) most papillary microcarcinomas can be followed without surgical treatment and (2) when surgery is performed, patients with lateral lymph node metastasis detected on preoperative ultrasonography (US) are more likely to develop recurrence. In this study, we further investigated the application of these strategies. To date, we have observed 211 patients (average follow‐up 47.9 months). In more than 70% of these patients the tumor size did not increase during the follow‐up period. There were no clinicopathologic features linked to tumor enlargement except in tumors ≥ 7 mm, which tended to enlarge in patients followed for 4 years. To evaluate not only whether observation can continue but also how to dissect the lymph nodes optimally at surgery, US diagnosis for lateral node metastasis is essential because the presence of US‐diagnosed lateral metastasis is an even stronger predictive marker for recurrence than the presence of pathologically confirmed node metastasis. The positive predictive value (PPV) was 80.6% for US but reached 100% if fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of nodes or FNAB‐thyroglobulin measurement is added. Furthermore, carcinomas occupying the upper region of the thyroid more frequently showed US‐diagnosed and pathologically confirmed lateral metastasis, and those measuring ≥ 7 mm were more likely to show pathologically confirmed lateral metastasis. These findings suggest that, for papillary microcarcinoma: (1) US‐diagnosed lateral metastasis is a strong marker predicting a worse relapse‐free survival; (2) FNAB of nodes and FNAB‐thyroglobulin measurement are useful tools for evaluating lymph node metastasis; and (3) careful US evaluation for lateral metastasis is necessary in patients with a tumor measuring ≥ 7 mm or that is located in the upper region of the thyroid both during observation and preoperatively.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism in the Young Age Group: Particularities of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Schemes
Authors: Cupisti Kenko , Raffel Andreas , Dotzenrath Cornelia , Krausch Markus , Röher Hans‐Dietrich , Schulte Klaus‐Martin
Published: October 2004

Primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) is a rare endocrine disease in children and young adults. The widespread use of new developments in pHPT surgery (i.e., unilateral and minimally invasive approaches) is based on the assumption that the solitary adenoma is the predominant intraoperative finding, but it has not been evaluated in the subgroup of young patients. From April 1986 to December 2002, a total of 1219 patients with pHPT have been operated on in our institution. The records of 64 patients (5.3%) younger than 30 years were extracted and compared to those of the older patients. The study group (median age 25 years, range 11–30 years) had significantly less bone pain, fewer signs of bone demineralization, and fewer neuropsychiatric symptoms. Eleven patients had hereditary disease. We found a solitary adenoma in only 32 of the 64 juvenile patients (p < 0.001), multiple gland disease in 25 patients (p < 0.001), and two suspected carcinomas. No adenoma could be identified in five patients. Follow‐up of 54 patients after a median of 6.1 years revealed 42 normocalcemic patients, 5 hypocalcemic patients, and 7 patients with hypercalcemia. Altogether, 16 juvenile patients underwent parathyroid reoperations (25%) compared to 105 older patients (9%) (p = 0.003). Problems and difficulties with parathyroid surgery are pronounced in younger patients. The high rate of multiple gland disease requires bilateral cervical exploration as the standard procedure in pHPT patients younger than 30 years of age.
Long‐term changes of c‐Fos expression in the rat spinal cord following chronic constriction injury
Authors: Jergova Stanislava , Cizkova Dasa
Published: October 2004

The expression of c‐Fos protein has been used as a relative marker of nociceptive neuronal activity in the spinal cord following various noxious stimuli. Experiments were conducted to examine c‐Fos expression in lumbar spinal cord (L3‐L6) following chronic constriction injury (CCI) in relation to nociceptive behavior over longer survival period up to 28 days. Development of mechanical allodynia was observed in the ipsilateral hind paw of CCI rats at day 3 and lasted up to 28 days. In contrast, the spinal c‐Fos expression in CCI rats appeared in a biphasic manner. The highest number of c‐Fos positive neurons occurred during the first week, followed by a decline at 7 and 14 days and reappearance at day 28 following injury. The early increase of c‐Fos expression correlated with allodynia development, however, at longer survival period (28 days) c‐Fos positivity become comparable in both CCI and sham groups despite their obvious behavior differences.

Our results suggest that, at least in the CCI model, the c‐Fos protein expression should not be considered as a reliable index of pain sensation disorders.
The influence of non‐specific low back pain on pressure pain thresholds and disability
Authors: Farasyn André , Meeusen Romain
Published: October 2004

The purpose of this study was to investigate the pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) with respect to the Erector spinae and the hip muscles in 87 patients with subacute non‐specific low back pain (LBP) and to evaluate the relationship between the PPTs and disability.

In order to establish reference values, 64 healthy subjects were examined with respect to PPTs and used as a control group against the group of LBP patients.

The mean PPT values of the Erector spinae and the hip at all examined points of the LBP group were significantly lower (p< 0.001) in comparison to the PPT values of the healthy group. An exceptionally high difference (2.7 kg/cm2) was found at the L3 Erector spinae level. The correlation between having LBP or not in the whole group (n= 151) and PPT, was highest at the L3 level of the Erector spinae (r= −0.710,p< 0.001).

When the group of patients with LBP was divided into two subgroups in terms of having an Oswestry disability index (ODI) lower than 40 (“moderate LBP disability”) or an ODI higher than 40 (“severe LBP disability”) it was surprising to notice that there was no significant difference between the PPTs of the Erector spinae and the hip musculature. This study has shown the possibility of the existence of muscular disorder in the lumbar part of the Erector spinae in patients with non‐specific low back pain, but also reveals the strong inter‐individual differences in muscular fibrosis sensitivity and pain behaviour related to gender.
Cooperative binding of the hnRNP K three KH domains to mRNA targets
Authors: Paziewska Agnieszka , Wyrwicz Lucjan S. , Bujnicki Janusz M. , Bomsztyk Karol , Ostrowski Jerzy
Published: October 2004

The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) K homology (KH) domain is an evolutionarily conserved module that binds short ribonucleotide sequences. KH domains most often are present in multiple copies per protein. In vitro studies of hnRNP K and other KH domain bearing proteins have yielded conflicting results regarding the relative contribution of each KH domain to the binding of target RNAs. To assess this RNA‐binding we used full‐length hnRNP K, its fragments and the yeast ortholog as baits in the yeast three‐hybrid system. The results demonstrate that in this heterologous in vivo system, the three KH domains bind RNA synergistically and that a single KH domain, in comparison, binds RNA weakly.
Signal transduction mechanism of the seabream growth hormone secretagogue receptor
Authors: Chan Chi-Bun , Leung Po-Ki , Wise Helen , Cheng Christopher H.K.
Published: October 2004

We have recently cloned the full‐length cDNAs of the two growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) subtypes from a teleost species, the black seabream (Acanthopagrus schlegeli) [Mol. Cell. Endocrinol. 214 (2004) 81], namely sbGHSR‐1a and sbGHSR‐1b. Functional expression of these two receptor constructs in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells indicated that stimulation of sbGHSR‐1a by growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) could evoke increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), whereas sbGHSR‐1b appeared to play an inhibitory role on the signal transduction activity of sbGHSR‐1a. In the present study, we have further investigated the signal transduction mechanism of sbGHSR‐1a. The peptide GHS GHRP‐6 and the non‐peptide GHS L163,540 were able to trigger a receptor specific and phospholipase C (PLC)‐dependent elevation of [Ca2+]i in HEK293 cells stably expressing sbGHSR‐1a. This GHS‐induced calcium mobilization was also dependent on protein kinase C activated L‐type calcium channel opening. It was found that sbGHSR‐1a could function in an agonist‐independent manner as it exhibited a high basal activity of inositol phosphate production in the absence of GHS, indicating that the fish receptor is constitutively active. In addition, the extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) were found to be activated upon stimulation of sbGHSR‐1a by GHRP‐6. This observation provides direct evidence in the coupling of sbGHSR‐1a to ERK1/2 activation. Neither Gs nor Gi proteins are coupled to the receptor, as GHS did not induce cAMP production nor inhibit forskolin‐stimulated cAMP accumulation in the sbGHSR‐1a bearing cells. Furthermore, the ability of the GHSR antagonist d
‐Lys(3)‐GHRP‐6 to inhibit basal PLC and basal ERK1/2 activity suggests that this compound is an inverse agonist. In summary, the sbGHSR‐1a appears to couple through the Gq/11‐mediated pathway to activate PLC, resulting in increased IP3 production and Ca2+ mobilization from both intracellular and extracellular stores. Moreover, sbGHSR‐1a may trigger multiple signal transduction cascades to exert its physiological functions.
Photosystem II associated carbonic anhydrase activity in higher plants is situated in core complex
Authors: Khristin M.S. , Ignatova L.K. , Rudenko N.N. , Ivanov B.N. , Klimov V.V.
Published: October 2004

The thylakoid membrane containing photosystem II (PSII membranes) from pea and wheat leaves catalyzed the reaction of CO2 hydration with low rate, which increased after their incubation either with Triton X‐100, up to Triton/chlorophyll ratio 1:1, or 1 M CaCl2. The presence of the inhibitor of CAs, p‐aminomethylbenzensulfonamide (mafenide), at the start line in the course of electrophoresis of PSII membranes solubilized by n‐dodecyl‐β‐maltoside (DM) decreased the amount of PSII core complex in the gel. The elution of PSII core complex from the column with immobilized mafenide occurred only either by mafenide or another inhibitor of CAs, ethoxyzolamide. The above results led to a conclusion that membrane‐bound CA activity associated with PSII is situated in the core complex.
Inhibition of furin by serpin Spn4A from Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Oley Mareke , Letzel Matthias C. , Ragg Hermann
Published: October 2004

The serpin gene Spn4 from Drosophila melanogaster encodes multiple isoforms with alternative reactive site loops (RSL). Here, we show that isoform Spn4A inhibits human furin with an apparent k
assoc of 5.5 × 106 M−1 s−1. The serpin forms SDS‐stable complexes with the enzyme and the RSL of Spn4A is cleaved C‐terminally to the sequence –Arg–Arg–Lys–Arg↓ in accord with the recognition/cleavage site of furin. Immunofluorescence studies show that Spn4A is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), suggesting that the inhibitor is an interesting tool for investigating the cellular mechanisms regulating furin and for the design of agents controlling prohormone convertases.
Rapid phenotypic changes in passaged articular chondrocyte subpopulations
Authors: Darling Eric M. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A.
Published: October 2004

Articular chondrocytes are often expanded in vitro and then used to assist in healing articular cartilage defects. We investigated the extent of dedifferentiation in monolayer‐passaged, zonal articular chondrocytes by using quantitative, real‐time PCR. The relative gene expressions for collagen type I and II, aggrecan, and superficial zone protein were analyzed for relevant passage numbers (P0–P4) to determine how the expansion of chondrocytes affects the expression of cartilage extracellular matrix proteins. Results reveal that dramatic changes occur as early as first passage. Furthermore, these changes are shown to persist even when the expanded cells are encapsulated in 3D, alginate beads. Successful tissue engineering and autologous cell transplantation procedures rely heavily on having a cell source that expresses the chondrocytic phenotype. The results of this study suggest that major problems exist at the front‐end of cartilage regeneration efforts. © 2004 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
EFFECTS OF FRUIT THINNING ON ‘SENSATION’ MANGO (MANGIFERA INDICA) TREES WITH RESPECT TO FRUIT QUANTITY, QUALITY AND TREE PHENOLOGY
Authors: YESHITELA T. , ROBBERTSE P. J. , FIVAS J.
Published: October 2004

Different fruit thinning methods were tested on ‘Sensation’ mango trees over two seasons in a trial conducted in Northern Province, South Africa. The objective of the study was to select the best thinning intensity and method based on different parameters. Thinning was carried out in October prior to the occurrence of excessive natural fruit drop. When fruits were thinned to one and two fruits per panicle, fruit number, weight and yield per tree at harvest were all increased. When 50% of the panicles were thinned there was an increase in the fruit retention potential of the trees as well as in the size and quality of the fruit produced. Large fruits were, however, prone to certain physiological problems. Chemical thinning with Corasil.E produced very small fruits with an increased percentage of ‘mules’ (fruit without seed). Trees subjected to severe thinning intensities showed earlier recovery of starch reserves and better vegetative growth than the control.
SAFFLOWER AGRONOMIC CHARACTERS, YIELD AND ECONOMIC REVENUE IN COMPARISON WITH OTHER RAIN-FED CROPS IN A HIGH-ELEVATION, SEMI-ARID MEDITERRANEAN ENVIRONMENT
Authors: YAU S. K.
Published: October 2004

The objective of the research was to test whether safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) could be grown successfully and profitably as a rain-fed, winter, oil-seed crop at a high-elevation site in a semi-arid area. A three-year field experiment was conducted in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon at a site 995 m asl with a mean annual precipitation of 518 mm. Two safflower lines, Syrian Hama Local and PI301055, selected from earlier screenings, were compared with barley and lentil, the two dominant rain-fed crops, together with chickpea. Safflower flowered and matured more than a month later than the other three crops, and gave the highest dry matter at flowering. Safflower yielded more than chickpea and lentil, and there were no significant differences in yields between the safflower lines and barley, which is the highest yielding winter crop in semi-arid northern Bekaa. The straw yield of safflower was higher than that of barley, which was in turn higher than those of chickpea and lentil. According to calculations based on seed yield, safflower gave the highest net revenue of $191 ha−1, followed by lentils ($160 ha−1), chickpea ($97 ha−1), and then barley ($27 ha−1). Farmers in the semi-arid Bekaa Valley of Lebanon and in other areas with similar conditions are recommended to plant safflower to meet a regional vegetable oil deficit and to diversify cropping systems.
SUPPLEMENTAL POLLINATION – INCREASING OLIVE (OLEA EUROPAEA) YIELDS IN HOT, ARID ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: AYERZA RICARDO , COATES WAYNE
Published: October 2004

In general, olive trees are self-compatible, but under some climatic conditions a number of cultivars have demonstrated problems with pollination and fruit set. The Manzanillo cultivar is usually self-pollinating, but under hot conditions its pollen develops slowly, resulting in little or no fertilization. Trials were carried out in two hot, arid ecosystems (Arid Chaco in La Rioja, Argentina and Sonoran Desert in Arizona, USA) to determine if supplemental pollination of a Manzanillo cultivar has the potential to increase yields, and to assess the effectiveness of three different cultivars as sources of pollen. Branches that received supplemental pollination produced 21% more total olives than the control. In Arizona, total olive and shotberry (unpollinated olive) production were significantly different between treatments. Branches that received supplemental pollination produced 98% more olives, and had 58% fewer shotberries than did branches in the control rows. Significantly more olives were produced on branches pollinated with Sevillano and Arbequina pollen, compared with those pollinated with Ascolano pollen and with the control.
Vision, Power and Agency: The Ascent of Ngô Dình Diêm, 1945–54
Authors: Miller Edward
Published: October 2004

This article challenges existing interpretations of Ngô Dình Diêm by examining his activities during the decade before he became leader of South Vietnam in 1954. Diêm actively pursued power in these years, and he achieved it mainly due to his own efforts and to those of his Vietnamese allies. At the same time, he and his brother Ngô Dình Nhu were outlining the distinctive vision of modernisation which would inform South Vietnam's post-1954 nation-building strategies.
The Anchor and the Voice of 10,000 Waterfront Workers: Jamit Singh in the Singapore Story (1954–63)
Authors: Khiun Liew Kai
Published: October 2004

Jamit Singh's legacy as a charismatic trade unionist and political activist on Singapore's waterfront coincided with its changing political developments. He was instrumental in bringing about this change by transforming the dock workers into an effective political force. His subsequent banishment by the People's Action Party government brought an end to a colourful episode in the history of Singapore's harbour.
Guanxi and Regulation in Networks: The Yunnanese Jade Trade between Burma and Thailand, 1962–88
Authors: Chang Wen-Chin
Published: October 2004

The article investigates the operation of the jade trading networks from Burma to Thailand during the period of the Burmese socialist regime. The trade, a significant ethnic enterprise undertaken by Yunnanese migrants, has relied on transnational networks that deal with different political and economic systems beyond the jurisdiction of the state. The network approach is used to analyse the intertwining of guanxi formation and regulatory observance.
Black feathers in Svalbard: the Alpini expeditions, 1928
Authors: Bosco Piero , Stone Ian R.
Published: October 2004

This paper lists all the Italian expeditions in search of the airship Italia, commanded by General Umberto Nobile, which crashed to the north of Svalbard on 25 May 1928. There were several such expeditions that involved members of the Alpini, the elite mountain corps of the Italian army. The Italian government had allowed Nobile the services of nine Alpini under the command of Captain Gennaro Sora. The original intention had been that they should assist at the base and, in emergency, should act as a rescue team. This they proceeded to do after it had become clear that the airship had disappeared. The Alpini completed much travelling around Svalbard and while unsuccessful in the main object of their search, accomplished some exploration, including the discovery of an island that was named Alpiniøya by Sora.
The Admiralty and the Franklin search
Authors: Ross W. Gillies
Published: October 2004

The planning and direction of the British government's efforts to find and rescue Sir John Franklin were carried out in the Admiralty offices on Whitehall by the Board of Admiralty, which comprised six Lords Commissioners and two Secretaries, subject to the ultimate authority of Parliament. The Board worked closely with the Navy's Hydrographer, Francis Beaufort, who was probably the single most influential person involved in the planning. He and the Board utilized advice from various officers who had been on Arctic expeditions, and consulted many organizations and individuals in Britain and abroad on particular aspects of the search.
Independent expeditions and Antarctic tourism policy
Authors: Murray Carl , Jabour Julia
Published: October 2004

Discussions about the management of non-governmental activities in Antarctica have been handicapped by a lack of clarity in terminology. The term ‘tourism,’ for example, is used in a catch-all manner to describe activities as widely divergent and incommensurable as overflights by commercial jetliners and solo ski traverses of the ice cap. Recent debate about stricter regulation of independent expeditions has been similarly confused. This paper examines these definitional hurdles and offers a broad categorization of activities in Antarctica. An overview of recent independent expeditions is then given and issues are discussed. It is suggested that, to date, the terms of the debate have been set by the most powerful vested interests in Antarctica and that the discussion itself has been polarized. The paper does not prescribe policy but indicates alternative points of view and argues that the strict regulatory approach increasingly favoured by some national programs is out of all proportion to the size of potential problems and could diminish traditions of cooperation, non-proprietorship, and the adventurous spirit, which have uniquely characterized human endeavour in Antarctica.
At-sea observations of ivory gulls (Pagophila eburnea) in the eastern Canadian high Arctic in 1993 and 2002 indicate a population decline
Authors: Chardine John W. , Fontaine Alain J. , Blokpoel Hans , Mallory Mark , Hofmann Theo
Published: October 2004

Evidence from colony surveys and local Inuit knowledge strongly suggest that the Canadian population of ivory gulls (Pagophila eburnea) has declined dramatically. The observations of ivory gulls at sea presented here are consistent with this. Ivory gulls were observed during two cruises on the Russian icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov in the eastern Canadian high Arctic in August 1993 and 2002. Ivory gulls were seen 3.5 times more often in 1993 (n = 176) than in 2002 (n = 149), and, corrected for observation effort, four times more ivory gulls were seen in 1993 than in 2002. Ivory gulls are scavengers: they were never observed feeding on fish behind the vessel while ice-breaking, although black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) often were seen feeding in this way. Ivory gulls were observed scavenging around polar-bear (Ursus maritimus) kills in 1993 but not in 2002. By far the largest number of ivory gulls was seen near Grise Fiord in 1993. There, opportunities for them to scavenge were likely good at the community landfill as well as at Inuit and polar-bear kills due to complete ice coverage of the surrounding marine area. No ivory gulls were seen there in 2002. Observations of four individuals in 1993 and five individuals in 2002 near the southern end of Eureka Sound and in Norwegian Bay, 150 km from the nearest known breeding colonies, suggest that as yet undiscovered colonies might exist in this area. With three lines of evidence (colony surveys, local Inuit knowledge, at-sea surveys) now indicating population decline, urgent reassessment of the status of ivory gulls in Canada needs to take place.
Social adversity contributes to high morbidity in psychoses in immigrants – a national cohort study in two generations of Swedish residents
Authors: HJERN A. , WICKS S. , DALMAN C.
Published: October 2004

Background. Recent reports have indicated that immigrants have an elevated risk of schizophrenia as well as an increasing tendency for social exclusion. The aim of this study was to compare rates of schizophrenia and other psychoses in immigrants and their children of different ethnic groups with the majority population in Sweden in relation to social adversity.

Method. The study population consists of a national cohort of 1·47 million adults (born 1929–1965) and 1·16 million children and youth (born 1968–1979) in family households from the national census of 1985. Multivariate Cox regression analyses was used to study hospital discharge data during 1991–2000 in relation to socio-economic household indicators from 1985 and 1990 (single adult household, adults having received social welfare, parental unemployment, urban residency, housing and socio-economic status).

Results. First as well as second generation immigrants had higher age and sex adjusted risk ratios for schizophrenia as well as for other psychoses (RRs 1·4–3·1 and 1·0–2·0 respectively) compared with the Swedish majority population. These risk ratios decreased considerably after adjusting for socio-economic indicators, for all groups, but particularly for the non-European immigrants. However, an elevated risk still remained in the Finnish and Eastern and Southern European study groups.

Conclusions. A higher risk of schizophrenia and psychoses was found in two generations of immigrants of diverse ethnicity. The results indicate that social adversity contributes to the higher risk.
Cluster analysis of key diagnostic variables from two independent samples of eating-disorder patients: evidence for a consistent pattern
Authors: CLINTON DAVID , BUTTON ERIC , NORRING CLAES , PALMER ROBERT
Published: October 2004

Introduction. The optimal classification of eating disorders has been a matter of considerable debate. The present paper tackles this issue using cluster analysis with large independent samples of eating-disorder patients.

Method. Two samples of adult female patients from Sweden (n=631) and England (n=472) were classified on the basis of 10 key clinical variables of primary significance for diagnosing eating disorders. A separate series of cluster analyses were conducted on each sample.

Results. Results suggested that a three-cluster solution was optimal in both samples. The first cluster (‘generalized eating disorder’) was characterized by high levels of eating-disorder psychopathology on all variables except weight and menstrual functioning. The second cluster (‘anorexics’) was typified by low weight, amenorrhoea and the absence of binge eating, and seemed to correspond to the clinical picture of anorexia nervosa. The third cluster (‘overeaters’) was characterized by high weight and moderate levels of binge eating and compensatory behaviour.

Conclusions. Results suggest that patients presenting to eating-disorder services in different countries have clinical features that fall into very similar patterns. These patterns resemble, but are not identical to, existing diagnostic categories.
The associations between psychopathology and being overweight: a 20-year prospective study
Authors: HASLER G. , PINE D. S. , GAMMA A. , MILOS G. , AJDACIC V. , EICH D. , RÖSSLER W. , ANGST J.
Published: October 2004

Background. Psychiatric disorders and being overweight are major health problems with increasing prevalence. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that being overweight is associated with a range of psychiatric conditions including minor and atypical depressive disorders, binge eating, and aggression.

Method. Prospective community-based cohort study of young adults (n=591) followed between ages 19 and 40. Information derived from six subsequent semi-structured diagnostic interviews conducted by professionals over twenty years. Outcomes were being overweight [body-mass index (BMI)>25] and average yearly weight change between ages 20 and 40 (BMI slope).

Results. 18·9% of the participants were classified as being overweight. Being overweight turned out to be a stable trait: 77·7% of subjects were assigned to the same weight class at each interview. Atypical depression and binge eating were positively associated with both, increased weight gain and being overweight, while psychiatric conditions associated with aggressive behaviors (aggressive personality traits, sociopathy) were positively associated with being overweight, but were not related to the rate of weight change. Generalized anxiety disorder was negatively associated with overweight. These results persisted after controlling for substance use, levels of physical activity, demographic variables and family history of weight problems.

Conclusions. This study shows relatively strong associations between eating-related and aggressive psychopathology and being overweight. Given the high prevalence rates of these conditions, this study encourages further research on the causality of psychopathology-overweight associations that might provide insight on novel preventive approaches for major health problems.
Abnormal response to metabolic stress in schizophrenia: marker of vulnerability or acquired sensitization?
Authors: MARCELIS M. , CAVALIER E. , GIELEN J. , DELESPAUL P. , VAN OS J.
Published: October 2004

Background. Previous work suggests that individuals with schizophrenia display an altered homovanillic acid (HVA) response to metabolic stress. The present study replicated and extended this paradigm, including individuals with elevated genetic risk for schizophrenia.

Method. Patients with psychosis (n=50), non-psychotic first-degree relatives of patients with psychosis (n=51) and controls without psychosis (n=50) underwent, in randomized order, double-blind administration of placebo and the glucose analogue 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), which induces a mild, transient clinical state of glucoprivation. Plasma HVA and cortisol were assessed twice before the start of the 2DG/placebo infusion (baseline values), as well as four times post infusion. Data were analysed using multi-level random regression techniques.

Results. During the stress condition, significant increases in plasma HVA and cortisol were found. The increase in plasma HVA level during the stress condition was significantly stronger in patients than in controls, whereas this was not the case in relatives v. controls. The increase in plasma cortisol during the stress condition was significantly less in patients than controls, but no significant difference in the increase of plasma cortisol during stress was found in the comparison between relatives and controls.

Conclusions. Patients with psychosis, but not their non-psychotic first-degree relatives, show an altered neurobiological response to metabolic stress, suggesting that this dysregulation is not a genetically transmitted vulnerability, but an illness-related effect, possibly reflecting acquired sensitization of neuroendocrine systems by repeated environmental stressors or repeated stimulation with agonistic drugs.
Efficacy and safety of methylphenidate in 45 adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind cross-over trial
Authors: KOOIJ J. J. S. , BURGER H. , BOONSTRA A. M. , VAN DER LINDEN P. D. , KALMA L. E. , BUITELAAR J. K.
Published: October 2004

Background. Data on the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate in adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are lacking in Europe. This study was undertaken to report on the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate in an adult out-patient population with ADHD, and to compare results with US data.

Method. A double-blind randomized cross-over trial comparing methylphenidate and placebo in 45 adults with ADHD with childhood onset was performed in a dose–titration design. Methylphenidate was titrated from 0·5 mg/kg per day in week 1 up to 1·0 mg/kg per day in week 3.

Results. Response rates using methylphenidate varied between 38 and 51%, and using placebo between 7 and 18% (p<0·05), depending on outcome measure used. Although the overall percentage of subjects having any side effect on both methylphenidate and placebo was rather high, side effects on methylphenidate over and above those on placebo were few and mild.

Conclusions. Methylphenidate proves to be an effective and well tolerated treatment for symptoms of ADHD in adults in the short term. Future research should study the long-term response and clarify the impact of gender, co-morbidity, socio-economic status and IQ on response rates in adults with ADHD.
Specificity in the familial aggregation of overt and covert conduct disorder symptoms in a referred attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder sample
Authors: MONUTEAUX M. C. , FITZMAURICE G. , BLACKER D. , BUKA S. L. , BIEDERMAN J.
Published: October 2004

Background. To examine the familial associations of overt and covert antisocial behavior within the diagnosis of conduct disorder (CD) in families ascertained by referred children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and to test if these familial associations differed between male and female probands.

Method. Subjects were clinically-referred male and female ADHD children (n=273) and their first-degree biological relatives (n=807). Scores for overt and covert conduct problems were calculated by summing the DSM-III-R conduct disorder symptoms, as derived from structured diagnostic interviews. Familial aggregation analyses were conducted with multivariate regression modeling methodology.

Results. Proband overt scores significantly predicted the overt scores of their relatives, and proband covert scores significantly predicted the covert scores of their relatives. There was no evidence of covert symptom scores predicting overt scores or vice versa. There was some evidence that the aggregation of covert symptoms was stronger in the families of female probands.

Conclusions. These results provide preliminary evidence that overt and covert conduct disorder symptoms are independently transmitted through families and may represent distinct familial syndromes.