bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation Practices in Western Oregon Perennial Grass Seed Systems:I. Impacts of Direct Seeding and Maximal Residue Management on Production
Authors: Steiner J. J. , Griffith S. M. , Mueller‐Warrant G. W. , Whittaker G. W. , Banowetz G. M. , Elliott L. F.
Published: January 2006

Recent legislative actions addressing concerns about water and air quality have placed restrictions on open field burning and other grass seed production practices. Because of natural resource quality concerns and economic pressures, there is a need to identify production systems that protect natural resources while still providing economic returns to grass seed farmers. A 10‐yr field study was conducted at three locations in western Oregon. We compared the effects of direct seeding (DS) with conventional tillage (CT) establishment, combined with maximal (HR) and minimal (LR) residue management, on seed yield, straw phytomass yield, partial budget costs, and estimated soil erosion from perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and creeping red fescue (F. rubra L.). Perennial ryegrass (PRG) and tall fescue (TF) seed yields were greater using DS, whereas creeping red fescue (CRF) yields were unaffected. Seed yield from all three crops was unaffected by residue management amount. Both DS and HR reduced soil erosion and cost less to implement than CT and LR by straw baling and removal. Compared with the industry standard practice of LR management plus CT establishment, use of HR combined with DS reduced soil erosion 76.9, 70.2, and 40.0% for PRG, TF, and CRF, respectively. The cost savings using the DS‐HR conservation system compared with the CT‐LR farm standard were 60, 76, and 84%, respectively. It was also observed that nonmarket opportunities have resulted from implementation of the alternative conservation practices. These research findings document the suitability of DS used in combination with HR in maritime Pacific Northwest region perennial grass seed production systems without needing postharvest straw removal.
Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency: Relationships with Grain Yield, Grain Protein, and Yield‐Related Traits in Rice
Authors: Samonte Stanley Omar PB. , Wilson Lloyd T. , Medley James C. , Pinson Shannon R. M. , McClung Anna M. , Lales Joveno S.
Published: January 2006

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) breeders have historically not included nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) as a selection criterion in breeding for cultivars, even though it has economic and ecological implications. This study examined the significance and magnitude of variation in N content, NUE, N translocation ratio (NTR), and grain protein concentration among diverse rice genotypes. Fifteen rice genotypes were studied representing the combinations of low and high levels of four yield‐related traits: maximum number of tillers, grain mass, main culm panicle node number, and panicle mass. These genotypes included ‘Lemont’, ‘Teqing’, and 13 advance recombinant inbred genotypes obtained from a Lemont × Teqing cross. Field data were obtained from experiments conducted during two cropping seasons. Plant samples were analyzed for N concentration. There was significant variation in N content and NUE among genotypes. The genotype NUE means ranged from 25.3 to 63.9 kg grain kg−1 N in a square meter of plants (kg grain kg−1 N), with the top four NUE values ranging from 56.6 to 63.9 kg grain kg−1 N. Nitrogen content and NUE were not significantly correlated with each other, and they had significant positive direct effects on grain yield. Grain yield was positively correlated with NUE, N content, and NTR, whereas NTR was correlated with grain protein concentration. Plant breeders could use these significant correlations to their advantage in breeding for rice cultivars that not only produce high yield but also utilize N efficiently and produce grain with a higher protein concentration.
μ‐XANES and μ‐XRF Investigations of Metal Binding Mechanisms in Biosolids
Authors: Hettiarachchi G. M. , Scheckel K. G. , Ryan J. A. , Sutton S. R. , Newville M.
Published: January 2006

Micro‐X‐ray fluorescence (μ‐XRF) microprobe analysis and micro‐X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (μ‐XANES) spectroscopy were employed to identify Fe and Mn phases and their association with selected metals in two biosolids (limed composted [LC] and Nu‐Earth) before and after treatment to remove organic carbon (OC). Spatial correlations derived from elemental mapping of XRF images showed strong correlations between Fe and Cd, Cr, Pb, or Zn (r2 = 0.65–0.92) before and after removal of most of the OC. The strong correlation between Fe and Cu that was present in intact samples disappeared after OC removal, suggesting that Cu was associated with OC coatings that may have been present on Fe compounds. Except for Fe and Cr, the spatial correlations of metals with Mn were improved after treatment to remove OC, indicating that the treatment may have altered more than the OC in the system. The Fe μ‐XANES spectra of the intact biosolids sample showed that every point had varying mixtures of Fe(II and III) species and no two points were identical. The lack of uniformity in Fe species in the biosolids sample illustrates the complexity of the materials and the difficulty of studying biosolids using conventional analytical tools or chemical extraction techniques. Still, these microscopic observations provide independent information supporting the previous laboratory and field hypothesis that Fe compounds play a major role in retention of environmentally important trace elements in biosolids. This could be due to co‐precipitation of the metals with Fe, adsorption of metals by Fe compounds, or a combination of both mechanisms.
Multiple‐Year Water Balance of Soil Covers in a Semiarid Setting
Authors: Fayer M. J. , Gee G. W.
Published: January 2006

Surface covers are used to isolate contaminants in hazardous and low‐level radioactive sites for time frames ranging from hundreds of years to millennia or more. In the absence of data for such durations, the long‐term performance of surface barriers can only be represented with short‐term tests or inferred from analogs and modeling. This paper provides evidence of field performance of soil covers for periods up to 17 yr. The results of lysimeter studies from a semiarid site in Washington State show that a cover design known as the Hanford Barrier, which consists of 1.5 m of silt loam above a sand–gravel capillary break, can nearly eliminate drainage. The results were similar if plants were present or not, demonstrating the robustness of the design. Furthermore, reducing the silt loam thickness to 1.0 m (as might occur via erosion), with or without plants, did not lead to drainage. When irrigated to mimic 3× average precipitation conditions, the vegetated Hanford Barrier continued to prevent drainage. Overall, the results showed no loss in performance during the 17 yr of testing. Only when plants were eliminated completely from the 3× precipitation test did drainage occur (rates ranged from 6 to 16 mm yr−1). In a separate test, replacing the top 0.2 m of silt loam with dune sand and reducing the plant cover did not lead immediately to the onset of drainage, but soil matric heads within the silt loam noticeably increased. This observation suggests that dune sand migration onto a surface cover has the potential to reduce a cover's ability to minimize deep drainage.
Spatial Patterns of Labile Forms of Phosphorus in a Subtropical Wetland
Authors: Grunwald S. , Corstanje R. , Weinrich B. E. , Reddy K. R.
Published: January 2006

Phosphorus (P) has been identified as the key constituent defining wetland productivity, structure, and function. Our goal was to investigate the spatial patterns of total P and three labile forms of P (labile organic, inorganic, and microbial biomass P) across a subtropical wetland located in east‐central Florida, the Blue Cypress Marsh Conservation Area (BCMCA), and link spatial patterns to ecosystem processes. The wetland received a continual input of nutrients primarily from the south and intermittently from the west and east, respectively, which ceased in the mid‐1990s. Since then the marsh system has been undergoing natural succession. We used (i) ordinary kriging to characterize the spatial patterns of total P and labile P forms across the wetland, (ii) local, moving spatial correlations to investigate relationships between total P and labile P forms, and (iii) a clustering technique to link the identified spatial patterns to biogeochemical processes. The spatially explicit analyses revealed patterns of total P and labile P forms as well as changing relationships between variables across the marsh. We were able to distinguish P‐enriched areas from unaffected (“natural”) areas and intermediate zones that are currently undergoing change as P is mobilized and translocated. We also identified areas that are at risk, showing a shift toward a more P‐enriched status. Our results improve our understanding of P and its labile components within a spatially explicit context.
Age‐Related Epididymis‐Like Intratesticular Structures: Benign Lesions of Wolffian Origin That Can Be Misdiagnosed as Testicular Tumors
Authors: Nistal Manuel , García‐Cabezas Miguel A. , Castello María C. , De Miguel María P. , Regadera Javier
Published: January 2006

ABSTRACT: This study aims to characterize the epididymis‐like intratesticular structures (ELITSs), a rare lesion found in elderly men. ELITSs were identified in 6 patients from a review of 1442 autopsies and 271 surgical specimens of adult men. Bilateral lesions were seen in 5 cases. The lesion was located in the proximity of the mediastinal rete testis (6 testes) and at the testicular periphery (4 testes), and at both central and peripheral locations in 1 case. The lesion is characterized by a pseudostratified cylindrical epithelium, with a robust pankeratin and 8, 18, and 19 keratin expression, focal vimentin expression, and apical CD 10 expression, similar to what is proper of the normal human epididymidis. The epithelial layer of ELITSs was surrounded by a thin layer of smooth‐muscle cells. The adjacent testicular parenchyma was atrophied and the rete testis showed some associated degenerative lesions related to arteriosclerosis. The ELITSs are distinct from atrophic seminiferous tubules with a Sertoli cell‐only pattern and from the benign glandular teratomatous component of an involution of a malignant testicular germ cell tumor, the so‐called burn‐out germ cell tumor. Clinical and histopathological data suggest that this lesion represents a late Wolffian differentiation similar to the initial segment of the epididymal duct, which represents an unusual manifestation of the aging process.
Comparison of Efficacy of Two Techniques for Testicular Sperm Retrieval in Nonobstructive Azoospermia: Multifocal Testicular Sperm Extraction Versus Multifocal Testicular Sperm Aspiration
Authors: Hauser Ron , Yogev Leah , Paz Gedalia , Yavetz Haim , Azem Fuad , Lessing Joseph B. , Botchan Amnon
Published: January 2006

ABSTRACT: To compare the efficacy of 2 sperm‐retrieval procedures, testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and testicular sperm aspiration (TESA), during the same procedure using the same subjects as their own controls. The presence of mature testicular sperm cells and motility were evaluated in 87 men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) by means of multifocal TESE and multifocal TESA, which were performed during the same procedure using the same subjects as their own controls. Sperm cells were recovered by TESE in 54 cases, but by TESA in only 36 cases. There were significantly more cases (n = 20) in which sperm cells were recovered by TESE only, compared with 2 cases in whom cells were recovered by TESA only (McNemar's test, P < .001). The mean number of locations in each testis in which sperm cells were detected was significantly higher in the TESE group. In significantly more cases (n = 27), motility was observed in TESE material only, compared with 3 cases in which motility was present in material extracted by TESA only (McNemar's test, P < .001). Mean number of locations in each testis with motile sperm cells was significantly higher in the TESE group. The TESE procedure yielded significantly more sperm cells, as was also reflected by the difference in number of straws with cryopreserved sperm. This comparative prospective clinical study revealed that multifocal TESE is more efficient than multifocal TESA for sperm detection and recovery in men with NOA and should be the procedure of choice for sperm retrieval for them.
Homo Faber
Authors: Burry Mark
Published: January 2006

Professor Mark Burry's extraordinary and devoted work is nothing short of a measure by which standards for architectural research are set. Known for his investigative use of computational techniques to unravel the mysteries of Gaudí's Sagrada Família Church, he here takes a moment to reflect on where computational technologies in architecture are taking us. His experience suggests that before we abandon old tools for new, this is a good moment to put the brakes on. Hybrid activity, he remarks, demonstrates unequivocal benefits to the design process, and slow design has proven to be indispensable for success. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Walter Pichler
Authors: Dunster David
Published: January 2006

Throughout his lifetime, the Austrian‐born artist, maker and recluse Walter Pichler has defied an easy understanding of his work or its purpose. ‘Coming into contact with any product [of Pichler's],’ writes critic David Dunster, ‘elicits for me the sensation of a chilling proximity to the inevitable.’ Pichler, the practitioner of personal obsessions, ‘created a commentary that is far from private but retains the nature of an archetypal investigation’. In a rare look at his work, Dunster here offers us an eloquent personal insight that stirs a potent array of emotion. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Learning in Newbern: Rural Studio in Year Ten
Authors: Forney John
Published: January 2006

Amidst the regulated and increasingly fraught business of architectural practice, particularly within its homestead of the town of Newbern, Hale County, Alabama, Rural Studio has entered its second decade as a force to contradict normative modes of architectural education and practice. In the coming years, we will see if the wider consequences triggered by this innovative organisation will take root elsewhere. In the meantime, John Forney's reflective examination of its roots substantiates the condition that, in times of change, the periphery is a place that matters greatly. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Architecture Ensemble
Authors: Johnson Steve
Published: January 2006

The full intent and scope of design is rarely iterated by information alone. Ultimately, it is a team that ensures the work is executed with skill and care. Steve Johnson, project architect for the acclaimed Weald & Downland Gridshell, illustrates how its construction generated an enthusiastic partnership of hands‐on expertise that has since led to the establishment of a new visionary organisation. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concept Planning Process Realisation The Methodologies of Architecture and Film
Authors: Clear Nic
Published: January 2006

Video animation and motion graphics are challenging architectural ideas and practices in relation to people, objects, movement and time. Nic Clear reveals how it's done. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local Probing of Photocurrent and Photoluminescence in a Phase‐Separated Conjugated‐Polymer Blend by Means of Near‐Field Excitation
Authors: Riehn R. , Stevenson R. , Richards D. , Kang D.‐J. , Blamire M. , Downes A. , Cacialli F.
Published: January 2006

In this paper scanning near‐field microscopy is used to characterize polymer blends for photovoltaic applications, and fluorescence imaging and photoconductivity are combined to elucidate the spatial distribution and relative efficiency of current generation and photoluminescence in different domains of compositionally heterogeneous films. Focus is placed on a binary system consisting of poly[(9,9‐dioctylfluorene)‐alt‐benzothiadiazole] (F8BT) and poly[(9,9‐dioctylfluorene)‐alt‐(bis(N,N′‐(4‐butylphenyl))‐bis(N,N′‐phenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine))] (PFB), spun from xylene solutions, so as to obtain phase separation on micrometer and nanometer length scales. Protruding regions with diameters of about 5 μm in the topography image coincide with regions of high photocurrent (PC) and luminescence; these regions are identified as being F8BT‐rich. A general method to estimate the photoluminescence efficiency in the different domains of phase‐separated blends is proposed. As expected, lack of enhancement of the PC signal at the boundaries between protruding and lower‐lying phases indicate that these microscale boundaries play a small role in the charge generation by exciton splitting. This is consistent with the domains compositional inhomogeneity, and thus with finer phase separation within the domains. We also provide an analysis of the extent to which the metallized probe perturbs the near‐field photocurrent signal by integrating Poisson's equation. Finally, by using a Bethe–Bouwkamp model, the energy absorbed by the polymer film in the different regions is estimated.
Self‐Organized Monolayers: A Route to Conformational Switching and Read‐Out of Functional Supramolecular Assemblies by Scanning Probe Methods
Authors: Hermann B. A. , Scherer L. J. , Housecroft C. E. , Constable E. C.
Published: January 2006

Self‐organized molecular layers provide a promising route to constructing new (switchable) nanodevices and optimizing nanosensors. The design of such molecules involves control of structure and stabilization on the surface, as well as control of functionality. The search for a potentially universal “adapter”, which can control the self‐organization and stabilization on a particular type of surface, is a unique challenge. High‐quality nanoscale imaging using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) provides the means to further such studies. This article reviews our recent STM work on single molecules, self‐assembled monolayers, and self‐organized monolayers, highlighting our application of a general “self‐organizer” for graphite surfaces, i.e., a Fréchet‐type dendron. How powerfully this self‐organizing motif can affect various central components (catalytic, switchable, redox‐active) on a graphite surface is addressed by analyzing self‐organized monolayers of nine different molecules, each containing at least one first‐ or second‐generation Fréchet‐type dendron. In molecular layers containing a “switchable” core, we can detect a large conformational change upon protonation with HCl gas. Last, but not least, the dynamic surface organization properties of the Fréchet‐type dendrons are described.
Synthesis and Characterization of Carbon‐Based Nanoparticles and Highly Magnetic Nanoparticles with Carbon Coatings
Authors: Nesper R. , Ivantchenko A. , Krumeich F.
Published: January 2006

The metal carbides Li2C2, NaHC2, and CaC2, as well as acetylene, have been decomposed thermally and by metathesis reactions with selected transition‐metal halogenides as catalyst precursors in the temperature range of 550–1000 °C. All reactions have been performed in selected salt fluxes which dissolve the ionic carbides and the transition‐metal halogenides and which act as a thermal sink. While the decomposition reactions proceed at the upper temperature range, the metathesis reactions run well at the lower boundary, leading to a large variety of carbonaceous nanomaterials. Optimizations for carbon nanotube and nanofiber formation have been pursued, with the best yields resulting from the use of lithium carbide and acetylene precursors at the lower temperature limit. An influence of an external magnetic field on the carbon‐fiber morphology was found. Highly magnetic iron colloids have been stabilized against air and acids by carbon coating through similar reaction routes. Specific magnetizations of up to 150 emu g–1 (1 emu g–1 = 1 A m2 kg–1) have been found when iron powder was added to the salt melt prior to the decomposition reactions.
Supramolecular Functional Materials: A National Research Program Paves the Way to the Scientific Future
Authors: Ludi A. , Mayor M. , Husi S.
Published: January 2006

Supramolecular functional materials is the theme of this Special Issue featuring research funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. In this Editorial, the organizers introduce the goals, the participants, and the results of this National Research Program designed to make Switzerland a leader in the creation of the “smartest” new materials.
Using feasible regions to design and optimize reactive distillation columns with ideal VLE
Authors: Hoffmaster Warren R. , Hauan Steinar
Published: January 2006

The design and optimization of reactive distillation columns using feasibility analysis is addressed. Based on the feasible regions identified in previous work, we present two examples to illustrate the benefits of having feasibility information when locating design alternatives for systems with ideal vapor–liquid equilibrium. The examples include a reactive column for the metathesis of 2‐pentene and a multifeed reactive column with a constant volatility mixture. In the first example, we use the feasible regions to initialize an optimization‐based design strategy. For the second example, we characterize the feasible regions to determine feasible placement strategies for side streams and reactive stages. The design insights gained from feasibility analysis are highlighted for each example. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Investigation of the phenylalanine hydroxylase gene and tardive dyskinesia
Authors: Richardson Mary Ann , Chao Helen M. , Read Laura L. , Clelland James D. , Suckow Raymond F.
Published: January 2006

Phenylketonuria (PKU), an inborn error of phenylalanine metabolism, has been shown to be a risk factor for tardive dyskinesia (TD). In male psychiatric patients there was a significant relationship between TD and measures of plasma phenylalanine following ingestion of a standardized phenylalanine dose that was indicative of higher brain availability of phenylalanine in patients with TD. In addition, a medical food formulation consisting of branched chain amino acids, which compete with phenylalanine for transport across the blood–brain barrier, has been demonstrated to be an efficacious treatment for TD. Cumulatively these findings suggested that TD was related to phenylalanine metabolism and thus that sequence variants in the gene for phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), the rate‐limiting enzyme in the catabolism of phenylalanine, could be associated with TD susceptibility. Genetic screening of PAH in a group of 123 psychiatric patients revealed ten sequence polymorphisms and two mutations, but none appeared to be a significant risk factor for TD. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mitochondrial dysfunction as a cause of axonal degeneration in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Dutta Ranjan , McDonough Jennifer , Yin Xinghua , Peterson John , Chang Ansi , Torres Thalia , Gudz Tatyana , Macklin Wendy B. , Lewis David A. , Fox Robert J. , Rudick Richard , Mirnics Karoly , Trapp Bruce D.
Published: January 2006

Objective

Degeneration of chronically demyelinated axons is a major cause of irreversible neurological disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Development of neuroprotective therapies will require elucidation of the molecular mechanisms by which neurons and axons degenerate.

Methods

We report ultrastructural changes that support Ca2+‐mediated destruction of chronically demyelinated axons in MS patients. We compared expression levels of 33,000 characterized genes in postmortem motor cortex from six control and six MS brains matched for age, sex, and postmortem interval. As reduced energy production is a major contributor to Ca2+‐mediated axonal degeneration, we focused on changes in oxidative phosphorylation and inhibitory neurotransmission.

Results

Compared with controls, 488 transcripts were decreased and 67 were increased (p < 0.05, 1.5‐fold) in the MS cortex. Twenty‐six nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial genes and the functional activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I and III were decreased in the MS motor cortex. Reduced mitochondrial gene expression was specific for neurons. In addition, pre‐synaptic and postsynaptic components of GABAergic neurotransmission and the density of inhibitory interneuron processes also were decreased in the MS cortex.

Interpretation

Our data supports a mechanism whereby reduced ATP production in demyelinated segments of upper motor neuron axons impacts ion homeostasis, induces Ca2+‐mediated axonal degeneration, and contributes to progressive neurological disability in MS patients. Ann Neurol 2006
Main‐chain liquid crystalline poly(ester‐amide)s containing lithocholic acid units
Authors: Shaikh V. A. E. , Ubale V. P. , Maldar N. N. , Lonikar S. V. , Rajan C. R. , Ponrathnam S.
Published: January 2006

A series of poly(ester‐amide)s based on an ester group containing lithocholic acid derivative [3‐(3‐carboxypropionyl) lithocholic acid] and several aromatic diamines (naphthalene‐1,5‐diamine, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl ether, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone, benzidine, m‐phenylenediamine, p‐phenylenediamine, and tetraphenylthiophene diamine) was synthesized and characterized by solubility, viscosity, IR, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and optical microscopy. The polymers were soluble in most of the organic solvents and had inherent viscosities in the range of 0.21–0.38 dL/g. All the polymers exhibited a nematic mesophase, but only on shearing. Thermal transitions due to mesophase formation were not seen in the differential scanning calorimetry thermograms. However, the liquid crystalline character of the polymers was observed under an optical microscope. Thermogravimetric analyses revealed the maximum decomposition temperature was 390–435°C for these polymers. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 73–80, 2006
Extranodal metastasis is an indicator of poor prognosis in patients with gastric carcinoma
Authors: Etoh T , Sasako M , Ishikawa K , Katai H , Sano T , Shimoda T
Published: January 2006

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical significance and prognostic impact of extranodal metastasis (EM) in gastric carcinoma.

Methods

The study included 1023 patients who underwent gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy for primary gastric carcinoma between January 1993 and December 1996. EM was defined as the presence of tumour cells in extramural soft tissue that was discontinuous with either the primary lesion or locoregional lymph nodes.

Results

EM was detected in 146 (14·3 per cent) of the 1023 patients and in 1060 (3·0 per cent) of the 35 811 nodules that were retrieved as ‘lymph nodes’ from adipose connective tissues. The incidence of EM was significantly higher in patients with tumours that were large (diameter 10 cm or more), infiltrative, deeply invading or undifferentiated and in those with lymph node, peritoneal or liver metastases, or lymphatic or vascular involvement. After curative operation overall survival was significantly worse for patients with EM than those without (P < 0·001). Multivariate analysis identified EM as an independent prognostic factor (hazard ratio 1·82 (95 per cent confidence interval 1·23 to 2·71); P = 0·003).

Conclusion

EM is an independent prognostic factor and should therefore be included in the tumour node metastasis (TNM) staging system.
Randomized clinical trial comparing scan-directed unilateral versus bilateral cervical exploration for primary hyperparathyroidism due to solitary adenoma
Authors: Russell C F J , Dolan S J , Laird J D
Published: January 2006

Background

It was shown in a previous retrospective study that scan-directed unilateral cervical exploration for primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) can be carried out without an increase in the incidence of persistent or recurrent hypercalcaemia. This randomized clinical trial was conducted to test the hypothesis that focused unilateral operation leaves the patient no more vulnerable to persistent HPT than standard bilateral neck exploration.

Methods

Patients with HPT routinely underwent preoperative dual-isotope subtraction scintigraphy in an attempt to localize the presumed solitary parathyroid adenoma. Individuals with a positive scan (one residual focus of activity following subtraction) were deemed suitable for focused unilateral cervical exploration. At operation, if a single tumour was identified at the site suggested by the scan, the patient was randomized to unilateral or bilateral neck exploration.

Results

Between April 1998 and December 2003, 190 patients underwent first-time cervical exploration for HPT. Of these, 100 qualified for randomization. Fifty-four patients were randomized to unilateral neck exploration and 46 to bilateral operation. All 100 patients were cured following operation, as assessed by return of the serum calcium level to normal. Two patients randomized to bilateral exploration were found to have an unsuspected additional enlarged parathyroid on the contralateral side.

Conclusion

Scan-directed unilateral cervical exploration for HPT does not significantly increase the incidence of persistent hypercalcaemia compared with standard bilateral operation.
Blockade of interleukin 6 accelerates acinar cell apoptosis and attenuates experimental acute pancreatitis in vivo
Authors: Chao K C , Chao K F , Chuang C C , Liu S H
Published: January 2006

Background

It remains unclear whether interleukin (IL) 6 plays a role in initiating either the inflammatory or antiapoptotic responses in severe acute pancreatitis. This study examined the effect of neutralizing antibody against IL-6 on the induction of pancreatic acinar cell apoptosis and attenuation of the severity of severe acute pancreatitis.

Methods

Experiments were conducted on laboratory mice with severe acute pancreatitis induced by lipopolysaccharide injection following six injections of caerulein at intervals of 6 h. Neutralizing monoclonal anti-IL-6 antibody was administered either 5 min or 2 h after the first caerulein injection. Apoptosis in pancreatic sections was determined by the terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labelling method.

Results

Administration of caerulein and LPS induced an increase in serum amylase and IL-6 levels, severe acute pancreatitis, pancreatitis-associated lung injury, and phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 in the pancreas. A neutralizing antibody against IL-6 effectively suppressed these responses. Application of IL-6 neutralizing antibody caused the induction of apoptosis in the pancreatic acinar cells of mice with acute pancreatitis.

Conclusion

Blocking IL-6 suppresses STAT-3 activation in the pancreas and consequently attenuates the severity of severe acute pancreatitis by promotion of pancreatic acinar cell apoptosis.
Randomized clinical trial of the effect of preoperative dexamethasone on nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Feo C V , Sortini D , Ragazzi R , De Palma M , Liboni A
Published: January 2006

Background

Preoperative dexamethasone may reduce disabling symptoms such as pain, nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Between March and December 2004, 101 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to receive 8 mg dexamethasone (n = 49) or placebo (n = 52) intravenously before surgery. Six patients were excluded from the study. All patients received a standardized anaesthetic, surgical and multimodal analgesic treatment. The primary endpoints were: first, postoperative nausea, vomiting and pain; second, postoperative analgesic and antiemetic requirements. The pain scores (visual analogue and verbal response scales), the episodes of nausea (verbal response scale) and vomiting were recorded at 1, 3, 6 and 24 h, respectively, after the operation. Analgesic and antiemetic requirements were also recorded.

Results

No apparent drug side-effects were noted. Seven patients (14 per cent) in the treatment group reported nausea and vomiting compared with 24 (46 per cent) in the control group (P = 0·001). In the group of patients treated with dexamethasone, five (10 per cent) required antiemetics versus 23 (44 per cent) of those receiving placebo (P < 0·001). No difference in postoperative pain scores and analgesic requirements was detected between groups.

Conclusion

Preoperative dexamethasone reduces postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with no side-effects, and may be recommended for routine use.
Skin-sparing mastectomy
Authors: Rainsbury R M
Published: January 2006

Background

Skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) is a new technique being used in a variety of clinical settings. This article reviews the published data on SSM to establish its current role in clinical practice.

Methods

A Medline search was carried out using the key words ‘skin-sparing mastectomy’ to identify English-language articles published between 1990 and 2004 and further material referenced in these publications.

Results

SSM is most commonly used for surgical prophylaxis and to treat in situ and early invasive disease in patients who request immediate breast reconstruction. SSM and non-SSM result in similar surgical and oncological outcomes, but skin flap ischaemia is more common after SSM and is associated with a range of risk factors, including smoking.

Conclusion

SSM has become an established procedure in breast surgery, but there is a lack of prospective data on which to make evidence-based decisions about its use in individual patients.
Surveillance imaging for carotid in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Goldman Corey K. , Morshedi‐Meibodi Ali , White Christopher J. , Jaff Michael R.
Published: January 2006

Carotid artery stent placement is the procedure of choice in suitable candidates who require carotid revascularization and are at increased risk for surgical therapy. To ensure late patency of the stent, continued surveillance is required. We present three cases to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of noninvasive imaging techniques for surveillance of carotid stents, ultimately validated with invasive contrast angiography. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Instant percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale in patients with acute myocardial infarction and normal coronary arteries
Authors: Mehan Vivek K. , Wahl Andreas , Walpoth Nazan , Meier Bernhard
Published: January 2006

Two young women with angiographically normal coronary arteries suffered an acute myocardial infarction. Both were found to have a patent foramen ovale (PFO), the likely pathway of a paradoxical embolus causing the infarction. The PFOs were diagnosed and closed percutaneously with an Amplatzer PFO Occluder during the emergency coronary angiography. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of sirolimus‐eluting stent, paclitaxel‐eluting stent, and bare metal stent in the treatment of long coronary lesions
Authors: Kim Young‐Hak , Park Seong‐Wook , Lee Cheol Whan , Hong Myeong‐Ki , Gwon Hyeon‐Cheol , Jang Yangsoo , Lee Myoung Mook , Koo Bon Kwon , Oh Dong Joo , Seung Ki Bae , Tahk Seung‐Jae , Yoon Junghan , Park Seung‐Jung
Published: January 2006

Objective: This study compared the efficacy of the sirolimus‐eluting stent (SES), the paclitaxel‐eluting stent (PES), and the bare metal stent (BMS) for long coronary lesions. Background: The outcome of drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation in long coronary lesions remains unclear. Methods: The study involved 527 patients with de novo long coronary lesions (≥24 mm), which were treated with long (≥28 mm) SESs (223 lesions), PESs (194 lesions), or BMSs (201 lesions). Results: Lesions in the SES (36.0 ± 14.9 mm, P < 0.001) and PES (36.3 ± 14.5 mm, P < 0.001) groups were longer than those in the BMS group (32.0 ± 12.3 mm), meaning the two DES groups had longer stented segments than did the BMS group. Six‐month angiographic follow‐up showed the SES (9.3%, P < 0.001) and PES (21.3%, P < 0.001) groups had lower in‐segment restenosis rates than that of the BMS group (42.5%). The rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including death, myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization at 9 months was higher in the BMS group (26.6%) than that in the SES (13.0%, P < 0.001) and PES (15.7%, P < 0.001) groups. Posthoc analysis of the two DES groups showed that the in‐segment restenosis rate was lower for the SES than that for the PES group (P = 0.002), while the MACE rate was similar. Conclusions: The use of DESs for long coronary lesions appears to be safe and more effective than the use of BMSs in terms of restenosis and adverse clinical events. SES use was associated with lower late luminal loss and a lower angiographic restenosis rate compared with PES use. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal artery angiography: “The right ipsilateral oblique” Myth
Authors: Bates Mark C. , Crotty Bradley , Kavasmaneck Cyrus , Campbell James R.
Published: January 2006

Background: Finding the optimal image intensifier angle of obliquity during renal intervention is important for accurate stent placement but can require multiple catheter rotations and test injections of contrast. Objective: Explore the usefulness of axial magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) as a roadmap for predicting image intensifier position during subsequent renal intervention. Methods: MRA images were reviewed in 137 consecutive patients (255 renal arteries) undergoing workup for renal artery stenosis. The axial angle of renal artery incidence perpendicular to the spine was estimated by two operators and results averaged. Results: The average angle of incidence for the renal artery ostia was +21.24° ±2.31° for the right and +8.81° ±2.0° for the left (P < .0001). The positive numbers correlate with left anterior oblique (LAO) and negative right anterior oblique (RAO). Conclusions: MRA can be used to define the origin of the renal artery and is most likely to predict an LAO image window for subsequent angiography of the left and right renal arteries displacing the “ipsilateral oblique” axiom. In patients without baseline MRA the 10 to 20 degree LAO “empiric” position will allow coaxial imaging of both renal ostia in 75% of cases. However, there can be extreme variation in the renal origin (53° RAO to 85° LAO) and we advocate using the simple technique reported herein to define the renal origin in patients with pre‐procedure MRA. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hyperuricemia as a risk factor for contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Toprak Omer , Cirit Mustafa , Esi Ertap , Postaci Nursen , Yesil Murat , Bayata Serdar
Published: January 2006

Objectives: Hyperuricemia as a risk factor for contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) has not been studied. Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of hyperuricemia on the development of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study. A total of 266 patients with a mean age of 58.33 ± 7.85 years and serum creatinine ≥1.2 mg/dl were divided into two groups (hyperuricemic, n = 126, and normouricemic, n = 140). CIN was defined as an increase of ≥25% in creatinine over baseline within 48 hr of angiography, and hyperuricemia as serum uric acid ≥7 mg/dl in males and ≥6.5 mg/dl in females. Results: CIN occurred in 15.1% of the hyperuricemic group and 2.9% of the normouricemic group (P < 0.001). Serum creatinine increased from 1.45 ± 0.20 to 1.67 ± 0.45 mg/dl in the hyperuricemic group and from 1.42 ± 0.16 to 1.56 ± 0.23 mg/dl in the normouricemic group (P < 0.001). Hyperuricemia [odds ratio (OR) 4.71; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.29–17.21; P = 0.019] and a high incidence of multi‐vessel coronary involvement (OR 3.59; 95% CI 1.12–11.48; P = 0.032) in the hyperuricemic group were predictors of CIN. Hypoalbuminemia (P = 0.001) and age ≥70 years (P = 0.023) were other risk indicators of CIN. Length of hospital stay (P < 0.001) and CIN requiring renal replacement therapy (P = 0.017) were significantly higher in hyperuricemic group. Serum uric acid level ≥7 mg/dl in males and ≥5.9 mg/dl in females were found to be the best cut‐off value for prediction of CIN. Conclusion: Our data support the hypothesis that patients with hyperuricemia are at risk of developing CIN. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cyclic Quaternary Ammonium Ionic Liquids with Perfluoroalkyltrifluoroborates: Synthesis, Characterization, and Properties
Authors: Zhou Zhi‐Bin , Matsumoto Hajime , Tatsumi Kuniaki
Published: January 2006

New cyclic quaternary ammonium salts, composed of N‐alkyl(alkyl ether)‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium, ‐oxazolidinium, ‐piperidinium, or ‐morpholinium cations (alkyl=nC4H9, alkyl ether=CH3OCH2, CH3OCH2CH2) and a perfluoroalkyltrifluoroborate anion ([RFBF3]−, RF=CF3, C2F5, nC3F7, nC4F9), were synthesized and characterized. Most of these salts are liquids at room temperature. The key properties of these salts—phase transitions, thermal stability, density, viscosity, conductivity, and electrochemical windows—were measured and compared to those of their corresponding [BF4]− and [(CF3SO2)2N]− salts. The structural effect on all the above properties was intensively studied in terms of the identity of the cation and anion, variation of the side chain in the cation (i.e., alkyl versus alkyl ether), and change in the length of the perfluoroalkyl group (RF) in the [RFBF3]− ion. The reduction of Li+ ions and reoxidation of Li metal took place in pure N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium pentafluoroethyltrifluoroborate as the supporting electrolyte. Such comprehensive studies enhance the knowledge necessary to design and optimize ionic liquids for many applications, including electrolytes. Some of these new salts show desirable properties, including low melting points, high thermal stabilities, low viscosities, high conductivities, and wide electrochemical windows, and may thus be potential candidates for use as electrolytes in high‐energy storage devices. In addition, many salts are ionic plastic crystals.
Selective Heterogeneous Nucleation and Growth of Size‐Controlled Metal Nanoparticles on Carbon Nanotubes in Solution
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Xin , Tian Zhongqun , Zong Ye , Cheng Huiming , Lin Changjian
Published: January 2006

We present a novel approach to the in situ deposition of size‐controlled platinum nanoparticles on the exterior walls of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The reduction of metal ions in ethylene glycol (EG), by the addition of a salt such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), p‐CH3C6H4SO3Na, LiCF3SO3, or LiClO4, results in high dispersions and high loadings of platinum nanoparticles on CNTs without aggregation. We have performed controlled experiments to elucidate the mechanism. By exploiting the salt effect, our method effectively depresses homogeneous nucleation, leading to selective heterogeneous metal nucleation and growth, even on unmodified CNTs. In the 2.3–9.6 nm size range, the size of platinum nanoparticles, at 50 % loading, can be controlled by changing the concentration of metal ions, the reaction temperature, the reducing reagent or the means by which reactive solutions are added. Our method provides a flexible route towards the preparation of novel one‐dimensional hybrid materials, for which a number of promising applications in a variety of fields can be envisioned.
Donor‐Substituted 1,1,4,4‐Tetracyanobutadienes (TCBDs): New Chromophores with Efficient Intramolecular Charge‐Transfer Interactions by Atom‐Economic Synthesis
Authors: Michinobu Tsuyoshi , Boudon Corinne , Gisselbrecht Jean‐Paul , Seiler Paul , Frank Brian , Moonen Nicolle N. P. , Gross Maurice , Diederich François
Published: January 2006

A wide variety of monomeric and oligomeric, donor‐substituted 1,1,4,4‐tetracyanobutadienes (TCBDs) have been synthesized by [2+2] cycloaddition between tetracyanoethylene (TNCE) and donor‐substituted alkynes, followed by electrocyclic ring opening of the initially formed cyclobutenes. Reaction yields are often nearly quantitative but can be affected by the electron‐donating power and steric demands of the alkyne substituents. The intramolecular charge‐transfer (CT) interactions between the donor and TCBD acceptor moieties were comprehensively investigated by X‐ray crystallography, electrochemistry, UV‐visible spectroscopy, and theoretical calculations. Despite the nonplanarity of the new chromophores, which have a substantial twist between the two dicyanovinyl planes, efficient intramolecular CT interactions are observed, and the crystal structures demonstrate a high quinoid character in strong donor substituents, such as N,N‐dimethylanilino (DMA) rings. The maxima of the CT bands shift bathochromically upon reduction of the amount of conjugative coupling between strong donor and acceptor moieties. Each TCBD moiety undergoes two reversible, one‐electron reduction steps. Thus, a tri‐TCBD derivative with a 1,3,5‐trisubstituted benzene core shows six reversible reduction steps within an exceptionally narrow potential range of 1.0 V. The first reduction potential Ered,1 is strongly influenced by the donor substitution: introduction of more donor moieties causes an increasingly twisted TCBD structure, a fact that results in the elevation of the LUMO level and, consequently, a more difficult first reduction. The potentials are also strongly influenced by the nature of the donor residues and the extent of donor–acceptor coupling. A careful comparison of electrochemical data and the correlation with UV‐visible spectra made it possible to estimate unknown physical parameters such as the Ered,1 of unsubstituted TCBD (−0.31 V vs Fc+/Fc) as well as the maxima of highly broadened CT bands. Donor‐substituted TCBDs are stable molecules and can be sublimed without decomposition. With their high third‐order optical nonlinearities, as revealed in preliminary measurements, they should become interesting chromophores for ultra‐thin film formation by vapor deposition techniques and have applications in opto‐electronic devices.
Solvent‐Free Condensation of Arylacetonitrile with Aldehydes.
Authors: Guillot Regis , Loupy Andre , Meddour Abdelkrim , Pellet Michele , Petit Alain
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Reaction of Bicyclic Hydrazines with Allyl‐ and Arylstannanes in Ionic Liquid [bmim]PF6: A Facile Method for the Synthesis of Substituted Hydrazinocyclopentene Derivatives.
Authors: Radhakrishnan K. V. , Sajisha V. S. , Anas S. , Krishnan K. Syam
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Single‐Step Preparation of a 4‐(Dimethylamino)pyridine Analogue Bearing a Sulfoxide as New Chiral Inducer. Preliminary Evaluation as Nucleophilic Catalyst.
Authors: Poisson Thomas , Penhoat Mael , Papamicael Cyril , Dupas Georges , Dalla Vincent , Marsais Francis , Levacher Vincent
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Enantioselective Synthesis of the Optically Active α‐Methylene‐β‐hydroxy Esters, Equivalent Compounds to Morita—Baylis—Hillman Adducts, Using Successive Asymmetric Aldol Reaction and Oxidative Deselenization.
Authors: Shiina Isamu , Yamai Yu‐suke , Shimazaki Takahisa
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Silica Sulfuric Acid Catalyzed One‐Pot Synthesis of α‐Aminonitriles.
Authors: Chen Wei‐Yi , Lu Jun
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Facile Stereoselective Synthesis of (E)‐1,2‐Disubstituted Vinyl Sulfides via Hydromagnesiation of Alkylarylacetylenes.
Authors: Cai Mingzhong , Xia Jun , Wang Pingping
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A New Method for Synthesis of S‐Aryl‐O‐alkyl Thiolcarbonates: Selenium‐Catalyzed Reaction of Alcohols with Carbon Monoxide and Diaryl Disulfides.
Authors: Nishiyama Yutaka , Maehira Ken , Nakase Junko , Sonoda Noboru
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A One‐Pot Preparation of Isothiocyanates from Amines Using Two Phosgene Substitutes: Bis‐(trichloromethyl) Carbonate and Trichloromethyl Chloroformates.
Authors: Bian Gaofeng , Shan Weiguang , Su Weike
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.