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Lu-doped zirconia (LuDZ) was reported in the 1960s to be a poor oxygen ion conductor. However, we identified this system as worthy of reexamination based on the results of a machine learning-based screen for promising oxygen ion conductors, further supported by a physical argument: because Lu is the heaviest and smallest of the lanthanides, it should offer the possibility of high conductivity due to its high polarizability and size compatibility with the zirconia structure. The relationship between dopant concentration and conductivity in the LuDZ system was determined using a high throughput experimental methodology in which spatially resolved conductivity was measured across a compositionally graded film, spanning from Zr0.93Lu0.07O1.965 to Zr0.82Lu0.18O1.91. The conductivity broadly peaks with composition at 15 cation % Lu, coinciding with the approximate phase boundary of the fully stabilized cubic phase. The composition-dependent conductivity measurements reveal a surprising increase in activation energy for ion transport with increasing Lu content with no change in this trend at the composition of the conductivity maximum. The pre-exponential factor increases sharply with Lu content, but displays a distinct plateau once the conductivity maximum composition is attained. At 500 °C, the conductivity of Zr0.85Lu0.15O1.925 is 2 × 10−3 S cm−1, approaching that of optimally doped Sc-stabilized zirconia, which has the highest reported conductivity among zirconia compounds. In comparison to other oxide ion conductors, Lu-stabilized zirconia offers the advantage over ceria of negligible electronic conductivity and is easier to process than (La,Sr)(Ga,Mg)O3-δ.

Universal access to abundant scientific data, and the software to analyze the data at scale, could fundamentally transform the field of materials science. Today, the materials community faces serious challenges to bringing about this data-accelerated research paradigm, including diversity of research areas within materials, lack of data standards, and missing incentives for sharing, among others. Nonetheless, the landscape is rapidly changing in ways that should benefit the entire materials research enterprise. We provide an overview of the current state of the materials data and informatics landscape, highlighting a few selected efforts that make more data freely available and useful to materials researchers.

Hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) grown GaN was evaluated for high power Schottky diodes (SDs) because it contains much less carbon and grows much more rapidly than other typical growth methods. The results are encouraging for applications

Polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene may be of etiological importance in determining cancer risk. The aim of this study was to assess the association between common VDR gene polymorphisms and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) risk in an all-Ireland population-based case–control study. EAC cases and frequency-matched controls by age and gender recruited between March 2002 and December 2004 throughout Ireland were included. Participants were interviewed, and a blood sample collected for DNA extraction. Twenty-seven single nucleotide polymorphisms in the VDR gene were genotyped using Sequenom or TaqMan assays while the poly(A) microsatellite was genotyped by fluorescent fragment analysis. Unconditional logistic regression was applied to assess the association between VDR polymorphisms and EAC risk. A total of 224 cases of EAC and 256 controls were involved in analyses. After adjustment for potential confounders, TT homozygotes at rs2238139 and rs2107301 had significantly reduced risks of EAC compared with CC homozygotes. In contrast, SS alleles of the poly(A) microsatellite had significantly elevated risks of EAC compared with SL/LL alleles. However, following permutation analyses to adjust for multiple comparisons, no significant associations were observed between any VDR gene polymorphism and EAC risk. VDR gene polymorphisms were not significantly associated with EAC development in this Irish population. Confirmation is required from larger studies.

Evidence is accumulating that vitamin D may be protective against carcinogenesis, although exceptions have been observed for some digestive tract neoplasms. The aim of the present study was to explore the association between dietary vitamin D and related nutrients and the risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma and its precursor conditions, Barrett's oesophagus and reflux oesophagitis. In an all-Ireland case–control study conducted between March 2002 and July 2005, 218 oesophageal adenocarcinoma patients, 212 Barrett's oesophagus patients, 208 reflux oesophagitis patients and 252 population-based controls completed a 101-item FFQ, and provided lifestyle and demographic information. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the association between dietary intake and disease risk. Oesophageal adenocarcinoma risk was significantly greater for individuals with the highest compared with the lowest tertile of vitamin D intake (OR 1·99, 95 % CI 1·03, 3·86;Pfor trend = 0·02). The direct association could not be attributed to a particular vitamin D food source. Vitamin D intake was unrelated to Barrett's oesophagus and reflux oesophagitis risk. No significant associations were observed for Ca or dairy intake and oesophageal adenocarcinoma, Barrett's oesophagus or reflux oesophagitis development. High vitamin D intake may increase oesophageal adenocarcinoma risk but is not related to reflux oesophagitis and Barrett's oesophagus. Ca and dairy product intake did not influence the development of these oesophageal lesions. These findings suggest that there may be population subgroups at an increased risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma if advice to improve vitamin D intake from foods is implemented. Limited work has been conducted in this area, and further research is required.

Background Habitual consumption of diets with a high glycemic index (GI) and a high glycemic load (GL) may influence cancer risk via hyperinsulinemia and the insulin-like growth factor axis. Objective The objective was to conduct a systematic review to assess the association between GI, GL, and risk of digestive tract cancers. Design Medline and Embase were searched for relevant publications from inception to July 2008. When possible, adjusted results from a comparison of cancer risk of the highest compared with the lowest category of GI and GL intake were combined by using random-effects meta-analyses. Results Cohort and case-control studies that examined the risk between GI or GL intake and colorectal cancer (n = 12) and adenomas (n = 2), pancreatic cancer (n = 6), gastric cancer (n = 2), and squamous-cell esophageal carcinoma (n = 1) were retrieved. Most case-control studies observed positive associations between GI and GL intake and these cancers. However, pooled cohort study results showed no associations between colorectal cancer risk and GI intake [relative risk (RR): 1.04; 95% CI: 0.92, 1.12; n = 7 studies] or GL intake (RR: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.95, 1.17; n = 8 studies). Furthermore, no significant associations were observed in meta-analyses of cohort study results of colorectal cancer subsites and GI and GL intake. Similarly, no significant associations emerged between pancreatic cancer risk and GI intake (RR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.83, 1.19; n = 5 studies) or GL intake (RR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.86, 1.19; n = 6 studies) in combined cohort studies. Conclusions The findings from our meta-analyses indicate that GI and GL intakes are not associated with risk of colorectal or pancreatic cancers. There were insufficient data available regarding other digestive tract cancers to make any conclusions about GI or GL intake and risk.

Long-term consumption of a high glycaemic index (GI) or glycaemic load (GL) diet may lead to chronic hyperinsulinaemia, which is a potential risk factor for cancer. To date, many studies have examined the association between GI, GL and cancer risk, although results have been inconsistent, therefore our objective was to conduct a systematic review of the literature. Medline and Embase were systematically searched using terms for GI, GL and cancer to identify studies published before December 2007. Random effects meta-analyses were performed for endometrial cancer, combining maximally adjusted results that compared risk for those in the highest versus the lowest category of intake. Separate analysis examined risk by body mass index categories. Five studies examining GI and/or GL intake and endometrial cancer risk were identified. Pooled effect estimates for endometrial cancer showed an increased risk for high GL consumers (RR 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06-1.37), further elevated in obese women (RR 1.54; 95% CI: 1.18-2.03). No significant associations were observed for GI. Only two studies examined ovarian cancer and therefore no meta-analysis was performed, but results indicate positive associations for GL also. A high GL, but not a high GI, diet is positively associated with the risk of endometrial cancer, particularly among obese women. © 2008 Cancer Research UK All rights reserved.

A major component of bladder surface mucin is a glycoprotein GP51 (molecular weight 51 kD.). GP51, which has previously been isolated from rabbit mucosa, appears to function as part of the defense mechanism in an in vivo infection model. GP51 coats the epithelium and is secreted into the urine, as detected by immunohistochemical testing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Increased urinary GP51 occurs during urinary tract infection. To elucidate the role of GP51 as a component of the primary defense mechanism we studied interactions with uropathogenic bacterial isolates and urine from symptomatic patients with urinary tract infection.ELISA was performed to demonstrate the binding of GP51 and various uropathogens. Immunochemical studies were done using monoclonal antibodies to GP51 to determine the interaction of GP51 with certain uropathogenic isolates, including Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Streptococcus faecalis. Infected urinary sediments and uropathogenic bacterial cultures were examined by immunocytochemical testing to localize GP51. Antigen inhibition ELISA was done to quantitate urinary GP51 in the urine of 17 normal controls and 19 patients with urinary tract infection.ELISA revealed that GP51 binds to a wide spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative uropathogens in semiquantitative fashion. Immunochemical methods confirmed that purified GP51 binds to bacteria, encapsulating and aggregating the bacteria. Clinical specimens showed GP51 localized to bacteria and uroepithelial cells. We observed a significant increase in urinary GP51 in urinary tract infection compared to uninfected urine (p = 0.0003).These studies suggest that GP51, a component of bladder mucin, may be a strategic factor in the primary defense mechanism of the bladder.

The effect of hot electrons on electroluminescence of m -plane double heterostructure light emitting diodes (with a single 6 nm active layer of In0.20Ga0.80N) is investigated. Diodes with an electron blocking layer (Al0.15Ga0.85N) demonstrate from 3 to 5 times higher electroluminescence efficiency than those without a blocking layer. The lower electroluminescence efficiency in devices without the blocking layer is ex- plained in terms of electron overflow caused by ballistic and quasi-ballistic transport of injected electrons across the InGaN active region. The same mechanism explains the decrease, observed at high current densities, of the electroluminescence efficiency (efficiency droop) in the In0.20Ga0.80N diodes with the Al0.15Ga0.85N blocking layer. (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

This paper evaluates the operation of the quasi market in health care after the implementation of the reforms set out in the White Paper ‘Working for Patients’ (DoH, 1989a), which replaced the largely state run monopoly provision of health and social services by a state financed internal market. Lying behind the reforms was the assumption that the move away from bureaucratic, to market oriented, systems in the allocation of health and social care would lead to improvements in service efficiency, and responsiveness. This was to be achieved by separating state authorities' purchasing and providing roles, and the introduction of contracts. Using the framework developed by Le Grand and Bartlett (1993), this paper assesses the extent to which the internal market for acute services in Northern Ireland is meeting the expected outcome criteria of efficiency, responsiveness, choice, quality and equity. A survey of purchasers and providers of acute hospital services was conducted, followed by in-depth interviews with the stakeholders in the contracting process. Analysis of the quantitative data, and preliminary consideration of the qualitative data, would indicate that the potential benefits are yet to be fully realised.

At the conclusion of the SSC (Superconducting Super Collider) half cell magnet string testing program in February, 1993, the preliminary data analysis revealed that several substantive technical questions remained unresolved. These questions were: (1) could the high voltages to ground (>2 kV) measured during fault (quench) conditions be substantially reduced, (2) could the number of magnetic elements that became resistive (quenched) be controlled, and (3) did the cryostats of the magnetic elements provide adequate insulation and isolation to meet designed refrigeration loads. To address these and other existing questions, a prototypical full cell of collider magnets (ten dipoles and two quadrupoles) was assembled and tested. At the conclusion of this testing there were definitive answers to most of the questions with numerical substantiation, the notable exception being the heat leak question. These answers and other results and issues are presented in this paper. >

The process of taking a new material from invention to deployment can take 20 years or more. Since the announcement of the Materials Genome Initiative in 2011, new attention has been paid to accelerating this timeframe to address key challenges in industries from energy, to biomedical materials, to catalysis, to polymers, particularly in the development of new materials discovery techniques. Materials informatics, or algorithmically analyzing materials data at scale to gain novel insight, has been lauded as a path forward in this regard. An equal challenge to discovery, however, is the acceleration from discovery to market. In this paper, we address application of an informatics approach to materials selection, manufacturing, and qualification and identify key opportunities and challenges in each of these areas with a focus on reducing time to market for new advanced materials technologies.

The SSCL Accelerator System's String Test (ASST) has had several cool down, subsequent operational test series, and warm up cycles. The first cycle of these was rather limited in scope as mandated by Congress. The subsequent tests have been performed to obtain more complete information about parameters of, or operating experience with, the ensemble of magnets and spools when operating serially as in accelerator operations. The tests and procedures performed to date have emphasized cryogenic, mechanical, and electrical operations. These have included running, as well as upset conditions, i.e., superconducting to normal transition of the string (quench). This paper represents a summary of the operational test results and characteristics seen to date. A limited discussion is included as to their implications with respect to a successful accelerator operation. >

With its wide bandgap and high critical field, GaN is a promising material for high power electronics. To date, most GaN films have been grown on foreign substrates such as sapphire or SiC. Lattice mismatch between the film and substrate leads to a large number of threading dislocations (∼109 −1010 cm−2). These defects are thought to lead to poor device performance such as premature breakdown. Device properties are generally improved by growth of low-doped (< 1016 cm−3) GaN layers on high conductivity freestanding hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) GaN substrates. However, these films still have a large number of dislocations ∼ 106 cm−2. Dislocations are randomly oriented in both hetero and homoepitaxial films leading to a wide variation of material quality and thus device performance across the wafer. Recently, a true bulk GaN substrate became available using an ammonothermal growth technique. These substrates have both a low resistivity and low threading dislocation density. Growth of low-doped films on these bulk substrates can potentially address the problems of uniformity and premature breakdown in GaN power Schottky diodes.

Preparations and tests are underway at the N-15 site in Waxahachie, Texas, to obtain operational parameters and characteristics for the 100-m-long 50-mm-aperture half cell of the Superconducting Super Collider Laboratory (SSCL) collider. The first power phase of this test refers to the accelerator system string test. The experimental procedure is described. These measurements are being added to the previous information obtained during the thousands of hours of operating the 40-mm-aperture half cell minus the quadrupole string. These data are being compared to each other and to various computer models to obtain optimum operating scenarios for the final collider components and their use. The last run on the previous string emphasized the mid-cell spool piece recooler components; i.e., bypass leads, recooler, cool down valve, quench valve, etc., and their operation. Problems previously reported and their proposed solutions or proven fixes are discussed. Future tests with the present half cell and possible plans for its expansion to a full cell plus are presented. Heat loads from previous runs are compared with their design values. >

The internal quantum efficien cy (IQE) and relative external quantum efficiency (EQE) in InGaN LEDs emitting at 400 nm with and without electron blocking layers (EBLs) on c-plane GaN and m-plane GaN were investigated in order to shed some light on any effect of polarization charge induced field on efficiency killer carrier spillover. Without an EBL the EQE values suffered considerably (by 80 %) for both orie ntations, which is clearly attributable to carrier spillover. Substantial carrier spillover in both polarities, therefore, suggests that the polarization charge is not the major factor in efficiency degradation observed, particularly at high injection levels. Furthermore, the m-plane variety with EBL did not show any discernable efficiency degradation up to a maximum current density of 2250 Acm -2 employed while that on c-plane showed a reduction by ~ 40 %. In addition, IQE of m-plane LED structure determined from excitation power dependent photoluminescence was ~80 % co mpared to 50 % in c-plane LEDs und er resonant and moderate excitation condition. This too is indicative of the superiority of m-plane LED structures, most probably due to relatively larger optical matrix elements for m-plane orientation. Keywords: Light emitting didoes, m-plane GaN, intern al quantum efficiency, carrier spillover

Fifty-nine consecutive patients presenting within 6 hours of the onset of symptoms of an acute myocardial infarction were treated with 150 mg of soluble aspirin orally, and either 70 or 100 mg of alteplase divided into 2 intravenous bolus injections separated by 30 minutes. Dosage regimens were either 20 followed by 50 mg (group A), 50 followed by 20 mg (group B), or 50 followed by 50 mg (group C). Coronary angiography 60 minutes after the first bolus showed infarct-related coronary artery patency (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction score 2 or 3) in 13 of 16 (81%) patients in group A, 12 of 17 (71%) in group B, and 10 of 11 (91%) in group C (overall patency rate at 60 minutes: 35 of 44 [80%] patients; 95% confidence interval 68 to 91%). At 90 minutes, patency rates were 15 of 20 (75%) patients in both groups A and B, and 18 of 19 (95%) in group C (overall patency rate 48 of 59 [81%] patients; 95% confidence interval 72 to 91%). Residual thrombus was identified with the 90-minute angiogram in 7 patients in group A, 5 in group B, and 3 in group C. Although there was no statistically significant difference in patency between the 3 dosage regimens at either 60 or 90 minutes there was a trend toward increased patency and more complete thrombolysis at 90 minutes in group C. No episodes of bradyarrhythmia, hypotension or cerebrovascular bleeding were observed after double bolus therapy. There were 7 episodes (12%) of reocclusion, and 3 deaths (5%) within 1-month follow-up. Double bolus alteplase therapy is a convenient and highly effective method of promoting early coronary artery patency.

This systematic review aimed to examine if an association exists between dietary glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) intake and breast cancer risk. A systematic search was conducted in Medline and Embase and identified 14 relevant studies up to May 2008. Adjusted relative risk estimates comparing breast cancer risk for the highest versus the lowest category of GI/GL intake were extracted from relevant studies and combined in meta-analyses using a random-effects model. Combined estimates from six cohort studies show non-significant increased breast cancer risks for premenopausal women (relative risk (RR) 1.14, 95% CI 0.95-1.38) and postmenopausal women (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.99-1.25) consuming the highest versus the lowest category of GI intake. Evidence of heterogeneity hindered analyses of GL and premenopausal risk, although most studies did not observe any significant association. Pooled cohort study results indicated no association between postmenopausal risk and GL intake (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.94-1.12). Our findings do not provide strong support of an association between dietary GI and GL and breast cancer risk. © 2008 Cancer Research UK. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reaxys Database Information

Hybridsolarcells,forexample, attempt to combine nanostructured semiconductingmetal oxides with organic semiconductors to produce efficientphotovoltaics at low cost. An ideal architecture proposed forthese cells consists of an array of semiconducting nanorodssurrounded by a charge-transporting polymer, where theinterfacial distance is smaller than the exciton diffusion lengthin the polymer (approximately 10nm), resulting in efficientexciton separation at the interface.

The incidence of bacteriuria increases in men and women with age. Its association with multiple geriatric disorders makes it difficult to determine its relevance in the absence of cause-related symptoms. A direct relationship to morbidity and mortality is debatable except in very specific patients. Confronted with symptoms, the clinician should treat and manage UTIs as in the younger patient with careful selection of an antimicrobial drug. Diagnosis can often be rapid and inexpensive. Further evaluation should be undertaken only in specific instances. Perinephric abscess is uncommon but seen in increasing incidence in older, especially female, patients. This disorder can more accurately be diagnosed with new techniques. Successful management with percutaneous procedures has reduced the need for higher risk open surgical procedures. Improved methods of diagnosis and treatment have decreased mortality in the past decade.

The objectives and implementation of the wide ranging fibre trial at Bishop's Stortford in the UK are described. The valuable output from the key process of evaluation is highlighted, indicating how this is helping to lead to a positive future for fibre deployment in the UK local access network.

The target system for a muon collider/neutrino factory requires the conjunction of an intense proton beam, a high-Z liquid target and a high-field solenoid magnet. We describe the design parameters for a pulsed solenoid, including the magnet cryogenic system and power supply, that can generate transient fields of greater than 10 T with a flat-tops on the order of 1 second. It is envisioned to locate this device at the Brookhaven AGS for proof-of-principle testing of a liquid-jet target system with pulses of 10/sup 13/ protons.

After the achievement of the SSCL's Congressionally mandated milestone, the Accelerator System String Test (ASST) half cell under went a series of power tests. These tests involved quenches induced in various configurations and in power levels up to the maximum operation point. These tests have produced data which has defined various parameters and requirements for the individual elements and system. >

The lambing performance of 1179 crossbred ewes with 5540 joining records in three seasons (autumn, winter and spring) at two sites (Cowra and Wagga Wagga) was evaluated in three lamb-production systems (spring joining with autumn backup matings at both locations, with accelerated lambing at Cowra or annual autumn joining at Wagga Wagga) over 4 years. Two genotypes of ewes, Border Leicester × Merino (BLM) and Hyfer (Dorset × Merino composite), were used at both sites, with natural matings to Dorset, Suffolk or Hyfer rams. The following five traits were analysed separately at each site to evaluate ewe lambing performance: fertility, litter size, lambs born (per ewe joined), lambs weaned (per ewe joined) and weight of lamb weaned (per ewe joined). The mixed model included fixed effects for season of joining, ewe breed, ram group, ewe prejoining weight (spline) and their interactions, with ewe fitted as a random effect. The autumn (February) joinings had higher ewe fertility, litter size and overall lamb production than did joinings in spring (October and November), with winter (June) being intermediate. At the autumn joinings, the BLM ewes had higher fertility, lambs weaned and weight of lamb weaned than did the Hyfer ewes, although this was reversed at the spring joinings, causing significant season × ewe breed interactions. While litter size was larger in the autumn than in the spring for both breeds there was a much smaller seasonal effect among the Hyfer than BLM ewes. Prejoining ewe weight had a significant effect on all reproduction traits, with generally a curvilinear response with increasing weight. The interactions of weight with season × ewe breed were significant (P < 0.001) for all traits at Cowra and most traits at Wagga Wagga. Ram group was significant (P < 0.05) for most traits, with ewes joined to Hyfer rams having higher fertility than those joined to Suffolk. and with Dorset rams being intermediate. At Wagga Wagga, this was the case for spring joinings, but there was no difference between the ram groups in autumn, causing a significant ram × season interaction (P < 0.001). Ewe repeatability ranged from 0.15 to 0.25 for all traits. Using suitable breeds or genotypes, together with optimising management, could improve out-of-season lamb production.

Vaccinia virus is a DNA poxvirus previously used as a vaccine to eradicate smallpox. The virus has a high efficiency of infection, replicates in the cytoplasm without chromosomal integration and can transport a large amount of recombinant DNA without losing infectivity. Therefore, it is an excellent choice as a vector for gene delivery in vivo. Large quantities of vaccinia have been injected into dermal, subcutaneous and peripheral lymph node melanoma metastases without significant side effects, and with efficient infection of the tumor cells and recombinant gene transfection. To determine if vaccinia, when given intravesically, can effectively infect bladder mucosa and tumor with acceptable toxicity, we performed a phase I trial of intravesical vaccinia in patients with muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma before radical cystectomy.After documenting immune competence and demonstration of a major reaction after revaccination, patients received 3 increasing doses of intravesical Dryvax vaccinia virus (Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) that was provided by the Centers for Disease Control. Approximately 24 hours after the third dose, cystectomy was performed and the tissue was examined microscopically.There were 4 patients who were treated. The 3 patients who received the highest doses (100 x 106 plaque forming units) had significant mucosal and submucosal inflammatory infiltration by lymphocytes, eosinophils, and plasma cells into tumor and normal tissue. Dendritic cells were recruited to the site after exposure to the vaccinia. Significant mucosal edema and vascular ectasia were seen. Tumor and normal urothelial cells showed evidence of viral infection, including enlarged vacuolated cells with cytoplasmic inclusions. There were no clinical or laboratory manifestations of vaccinia related toxicity except mild dysuria. Of the 4 patients 3 survived and were free of disease at 4-year followup.Our study demonstrates that vaccinia virus can be administered safely into the bladder with recruitment of lymphocytes and induction of a brisk local inflammatory response. To our knowledge, this is the first report of direct delivery of live virus into the human bladder. The role of wild type vaccinia as immunotherapy for bladder cancer warrants further study. Furthermore, these data support the exploration of recombinant vaccinia as a putative gene therapy vector for intravesical infection and transfection of bladder tumor cells with cytokine or other genes, an approach that our group pioneered and most recently studied in patients with superficial melanoma.

Previous studies have indicated that high-energy transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) requires intravenous (IV) sedation and/or narcotics for patient tolerance. This study was performed to determine tolerability, patient acceptance, and efficacy of TUMT using both low- and high-energy protocols in a single United States university setting.Between August 11, 1997 and October 28, 1999, 210 men (mean age 64.9 +/- 9.1 years) presenting with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) received treatment with a Prostatron TUMT using either the low-energy Prostasoft 2.O or high-energy Prostasoft 2.5 software. Each patient had digital rectal examination and prostate-specific antigen level consistent with BPH, American Urological Association symptom scoreor = 15, and Qmax15 mL/s. Each patient received TUMT with only ibuprofen 400 mg by mouth (PO), lorazepam 1.0 mg PO, and ketorolac 30 mg intramuscularly (IM) prior to TUMT. A few patients who were concerned about limited pain threshold received oxycodone 5 mg/acetaminophen 325 mg PO. Of 210 patients treated, 12-month efficacy data were available for analysis in 80 patients.Forty-eight men (mean age 65 +/- 9.2 years) received low-energy 2.0 software TUMT, and 32 men (mean age 65.1 +/- 9.2 years) were treated with high-energy 2.5 software. Mean prostatic volume was 44.3 +/- 23.9 mL and 60.7 +/- 26.4 mL for the 2.0 and 2.5 groups, respectively. Mean energy delivered was 108.8 +/- 50.4 kJ and 173.1 +/- 41.1 kJ for the 2.0 and 2.5 treatment groups, respectively. International Prostate Symptom Score decreased from 23 pre-TUMT to 8 post-TUMT and 21 pre-TUMT to 10 post-TUMT at 12 months in the 2.0 and 2.5 groups, respectively. Mean peak flow rate improved 31.9% from 9.1 mL/s pre-TUMT to 12.0 mL/s post-TUMT and 45.8% from 9.6 mL/s pre-TUMT to 14.0 mL/s post-TUMT at 12 months in the 2.0 and 2.5 groups, respectively. All but two patients tolerated treatment without IV sedation. One patient experienced intolerable rectal spasm, and treatment was terminated in another patient because of poorly controlled hypertension.Patients can be treated safely with TUMT using either low or high energy, with almost universal patient tolerance and without the need for IV sedation or narcotics, if they premedicated effectively using a PO/IM regimen. Patients experience significant relief of symptoms whether low- or high-energy TUMT is used; however, high-energy TUMT improves flow rate to a greater extent than does low-energy therapy.

We investigated the utilization patterns of autologous blood donation for radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) during a 6-year period. A total of 225 patients electing RRP with blood donation were identified for analysis. Group 1 consisted of 113 men who had an RRP from 1990 to 1993. Group 2 consisted of 112 men who had an RRP from 1993 to 1995. Charts were reviewed for the number of units transfused, number of autologous units donated, and operative blood loss. More patients autodonated blood in the later group (84% vs. 75%). Technical improvements and experience have significantly decreased blood loss and the need for transfusions (69% vs. 96% in the early group). In the more current series, only 14% of patients who autodonated blood required homologous transfusion vs. 42% in the earlier group. An increase in the amount of wasted blood (42% vs. 16% in the early group) also was noted. The 4-unit donors had the lowest homologous transfusion rate in both series (group 1 = 21%, group 2 = 5%); the 2-unit donors had the lowest units wasted per person (0.74). In addition, the 2-unit donors maintained a low homologous transfusion rate of 16%. These data suggest that 2 units of autologous blood donation has a reduced risk of homologous blood transfusion while the amount of autologous blood wasted is minimized.

We retrospectively examined the effects of epidural analgesia on patients undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP).Patients (203) underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy under either general or epidural anesthesia alone or a combined general epidural technique. Of those, 143 had an epidural catheter placed and underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy under general anesthesia followed by postoperative epidural analgesia (Group E+G). Twenty-eight patients had the operation under epidural anesthesia followed by epidural analgesia in the postoperative period (Group E). Thirty-two patients had general anesthesia for the operation and postoperative systemic analgesia (Group G).There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to age, height, weight, ASA status, or operation time. The length of postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the general anesthesia group patients as compared to the other two groups (P0.05). Intraoperative blood loss and blood replacement were significantly higher in the general anesthesia group (P0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to return of bowel function postoperatively, or incidence of complications.Epidural anesthesia and analgesia following radical retropubic prostatectomy have demonstrated a number of beneficial effects. These include decreased blood loss and shorter hospital stay.

The average annual lamb production of 1182 crossbred ewes was evaluated in three lamb production systems over 4 years at two sites (Cowra and Wagga Wagga). The lamb production systems were: accelerated 8-monthly joinings with two flocks joined 4 months apart (Ac8), spring joining with an autumn back-up joining (SpB), and annual autumn joining (AuA). The Ac8 and SpB systems were evaluated at Cowra and the SpB and AuA systems were evaluated at Wagga Wagga. Two genotypes of ewes, Border Leicester × Merino (BLM) and Hyfer (Dorset × Merino composite), were used at both sites, with natural joinings to Dorset, Suffolk or Hyfer rams. Four traits were analysed separately at each site to evaluate the average performance per ewe joined per year: number of lambings, number of lambs born, number of lambs weaned and total weight of lamb weaned. Analyses were also undertaken using only spring joining data. At Cowra ewes in the Ac8 system had more lambings (1.23 vs 0.87), lambs born (1.88 vs 1.28), lambs weaned (1.47 vs 1.00) and weight of lamb weaned (31.1 vs 21.5 kg) than ewes in the SpB system (P < 0.01). At Wagga Wagga the AuA system had significantly more lambs born (1.37 vs 1.13), lambs weaned (1.08 vs 0.95) and weight weaned (26.1 vs 21.9 kg) than the SpB system (P < 0.01). The system × breed interaction was significant for all traits because the BLM ewes were greater than Hyfer ewes in the AuA, but the reverse in the SpB system. At both sites the advantage of the back-up joining over only joining in spring was greater for the BLM than the Hyfer ewes. The relative performance of the various lamb production systems for each ewe breed is presented. An accelerated lambing system is likely to be more successful using ewes that have an extended breeding season and good out-of-season breeding performance.

The goal of this project is to impart to engineering and business students, and to students from industry, the broad knowledge and practical skills to immediately help a manufacturing company become more competitive in any global economy while still providing a high quality work force for the 21st century. An integration of innovative, cross-disciplinary, manufacturing engineering and business education provided hand in hand with industry, will enable students, especially minority students, to have a real impact on manufacturing in this depressed region. The program was shortened and simplified to meet a budget of $2,000,000 versus the $3,000,000 in the-Proposal. All major objectives in the revised plan for the first year have been achieved with expenditures somewhat under the revised budget. Curriculum development with the advice and assistance of industry is ahead of schedule. Graduate minor degree curricula have been defined in Engineering and in Business. A summer intern project and guest lecture series have been well supported by industry. Facilities including advanced software have been brought on line. Cash and in-kind matching funds from industry, NMSU and the State total over $6m; this is 920% of the TRP funds expended. Cost sharing of cash is ahead of plan, of in-kind is slightly behind. The first group of 21 students have started one semester sooner than planned. The group is 25% minority and 45% female. Industry requests to interview graduates are coming in anticipation of availability in the spring of 1996.

Lamb growth, carcass and pelt measurements are reported from 5775 lambs born to Border Leicester × Merino (BLM) and Hyfer (Dorset × Merino composite) ewes joined to Dorset, Suffolk and Hyfer rams in three lamb-production systems at Cowra and Wagga Wagga over 5 years. The production systems involved lambings at different seasons of the year and increasing levels of intensification from autumn annual joining, spring joining with a backup mating for non-pregnant ewes, to an accelerated 8-monthly lambing system. Lambs from BLM ewes were 0.7 kg heavier at birth and grew 3% faster and reached slaughter, at 18 kg carcass weight, 1–2 weeks earlier than did lambs from Hyfer ewes (P < 0.01). The advantage in growth rate of lambs from BLM compared with Hyfer ewes was greater for lambs born in November. These lambs had poorer growing conditions over the summer months, with 22% lower growth rate and taking 5 weeks longer to reach slaughter than did lambs born in March or August. There was no difference between Dorset and Suffolk sire breeds for any lamb growth traits, with lambs from Hyfer sires growing 7% slower. Ram and cryptorchid lambs reached slaughter 1 week earlier than did wethers, with ewes a further 9 days later (P < 0.01). Sex differences were maximised when lamb growth was greatest. There were no differences in carcass fat measurements between ram and cryptorchid lambs, although both were considerably leaner than wethers (2.2–3.0 mm fat at the GR site), which were 1.3–2.1 mm leaner than ewes at 18-kg carcass weight. The range in average growth rate of progeny of the BLM ewes from the 12 different source flocks at Cowra and Wagga Wagga was 10–14% of the mean which was twice the difference in average growth rate of progeny from the BLM and Hyfer dams. There was also significant variation among the BLM source flocks for carcass fat measurements. Lamb progeny from the different sire- and dam-breed combinations had varying levels of heterozygosity. There appears to be little loss of heterosis or hybrid vigour for lamb growth, although the sire breed × dam breed interaction was significant (P < 0.01) for age at slaughter at Wagga Wagga, in which the ranking of the lamb types was consistent with the levels of heterozygosity. The estimates of between-lambing repeatability for the ewes were highest for birthweight (0.35 Cowra and 0.27 Wagga Wagga) and declined at later ages (0.26–0.17), with lower estimates for carcass traits.

It has previously been demonstrated that the urinary tract contains a unique glycoprotein (GP1) that appears to serve a function in the clearance of pathogenic bacteria. We prepared a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to human GP1 and examined its antigenic specificity and distribution in the human urinary tract. This was also observed in relation to another glycoprotein associated with infection, Tamm-Horsfall protein (THP), as well as to URO-5, a protein used in identifying the lower urinary tract. In enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assays (ELISA), all of the GP1 mAbs reacted with GP1 prepared from both human urine and rabbit bladder mucosa. No immunoreactivity was observed with either THP mAbs or URO-5 mAbs. Western-blot analyses using GP1 mAbs with human urine GP1 preparations detected a single band of approximately 50-52 kDa. Human urinary tract tissues were also examined by immunohistochemical techniques using the GP1 mAbs, commercial THP, and URO-5 mAbs. In paraffin-embedded bladder sections, only GP1 mAbs reacted with the urothelium. Selective staining of distal collecting tubules, renal pelvis, and ureters was demonstrated for GP1 mAbs. Proximal convoluted tubules, loops of Henle, and Bowman's capsule failed to stain for GP1. In the same tissues, THP mAbs reacted with the thick and thin segments of medullary loops of nephrons (Henle's loops). URO-5 mAbs stained fresh frozen sections of bladder urothelium, distal collecting tubules, and portions of Henle's loops; however, they failed to stain paraffin-embedded tissue sections. These GP1 mAbs provide a new tool for biochemical and histochemical investigations of the mucin layer in both healthy and diseased urinary tract tissue.

Introduction:Previous micro array studies and validation with Rt-PCR in a patient cohort from our group have shown that GDF 15 is up regulated in BE. GDF15 is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily which includes TGF-beta and BMP ligands and may be involved in regulation of tissue differentiation and maintenance. TGF-beta and BMP ligands signal through cell receptors inducing Smad activation. Activated Smad 2/3 builds a complex with Smad 4. The activated Smad-complex accumulates in the nucleus and can initiate gene expression. This transcriptional cascade appears crucial in cell transformation and differentiation as seen in BE. The aim was to examine the signaling potential of GDF15 in this cascade. Methods: Recombinant human GDF15 was used in stimulating Het1a cells (human esophageal squamous epithelial cell line). Smad activation into the nucleus was measured with immunostaining using Smad 1/2/3 antibodies and their nuclear intensity after stimulation. The intensity of activated Smad in the nucleus and quantitative amount of GDF15 utilizing Rt-PCR in Oe 33 cells (esophageal cancer cell line) was measured and then compared with levels in HET1a cells. Results: We found that stimulation of Het1a cells with GDF 15 leads to a time and dose dependant Smad activation. We established that optimal induction of Smad activation in Het1a cells is at 5 ng/ml with GDF15 for 1 h (p

Helicobacter pylori infection increases the serum concentration of gastrin, and this may be one of the mechanisms by which it predisposes to duodenal ulceration. Different forms of circulating gastrin were studied both basally and postprandially in 13 duodenal ulcer patients before and one month after eradication of H pylori. Three antisera that are specific for particular regions of the gastrin molecules were used. Gel chromatography indicated that > 90% of the circulating gastrin consisted of gastrin (G) 17 and G34 both before and after eradicating the infection. The basal median total immunoreactive gastrin concentration fell from 26 pmol/l (range 11-43) to 19 pmol/l (8-39) (p < 0.05), entirely because of a fall in G17 from 6 pmol/l (< 2.4-25) to < 2.4 pmol/l (< 2.4-23) (p < 0.001). The median (range) basal G34 values were similar before (15 pmol (2-36)) and after (10 pmol (2-30)) eradication. The median total immunoreactive gastrin concentration determined 20 minutes postprandially fell from 59 pmol/l (38-114) to 33 pmol/l (19-88) (p < 0.005), and again this was entirely the result of a fall in G17 from 43 pmol/l (9-95) to 17 pmol/l (< 2.4-52) (p < 0.001). The median postprandial G34 values were similar before (13 pmol/l, range 6-42) and after (15 pmol/l, range 6-30) eradication. Eating stimulated a noticeable rise in G17 but little change in G34, both in the presence and absence of H pylori. The finding that H pylori infection selectively increases G17 explains why the infection causes mainly postprandial hypergastrinaemia. G17 is increased selectively because H pylori predominantly affects the antral mucosa which is the main source of G17 whereas G34 is mainly duodenal in origin. This study also indicates that the increased concentration of gastrin in H pylori infection is the result of an increase in one of the main biologically active forms of the hormone.

We have investigated three prostatic cancer cell lines, PC-3, DU-145, and LNCa.FGC, and found that all three cell lines can grow in serum-free medium without the addition of exogenous growth factors. All three cell lines produce substantial amounts of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) that is secreted in the medium and they all display constitutively autophosphorylated IGF-1 receptors; two of the cell lines overexpress IGF-1 receptor RNA. The growth of all three cell lines is inhibited by an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide to IGF-1 receptor RNA or by peptide analogues of IGF-1 that compete with IGF-1 binding to its receptor. Our results indicate that these three cell lines grow by an autocrine loop in which the overproduced IGF-1 activates its receptor. Interference with the activation of the receptor leads to cessation of growth.

Ballistic and quasiballistic electron transport across the active InGaN layer are shown to be responsible for electron overflow and electroluminescence efficiency droop at high current levels in InGaN light emitting diodes both experimentally and by first-order calculations. An InGaN staircase electron injector with step-like increased In composition, an “electron cooler,” is proposed for an enhanced thermalization of the injected hot electrons to reduce the overflow and mitigate the efficiency droop. The experimental data show that the staircase electron injector results in essentially the same electroluminescence performance for the diodes with and without an electron blocking layer, confirming substantial electron thermalization. On the other hand, if no InGaN staircase electron injector is employed, the diodes without the electron blocking layer have shown significantly lower (three to five times) electroluminescence intensity than the diodes with the blocking layer. These results demonstrate a feasible method for the elimination of electron overflow across the active region, and therefore, the efficiency droop in InGaN light emitting diodes.

Introduction Barrett9s oesophagus (BO) is a premalignant lesion of the oesophagus that predisposes to oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC). Currently, widespread endoscopic surveillance of BO is undertaken in an attempt to detect and treat OAC at an early stage. The cost effectiveness of such surveillance is highly dependant on OAC risk in BO. However, the reported incidence of OAC in BO varies widely due to a lack of robust population-based studies and controversy over BO definition. The aim of this study was to examine the risk of OAC in one of the largest population based registers of BO worldwide. Methods The Northern Ireland Barrett9s oesophagus Register (NIBR) includes every adult diagnosed with BO (columnar lined oesophagus) in Northern Ireland between 1993 and 2005. The register was constructed by examining pathology reports from all oesophageal biopsies taken during this period. Information was collected on length of BO segment, presence of endoscopically visible segment, presence of specialised intestinal metaplasia (SIM), and degree of dysplasia seen. Incident OAC cases were identified by matching the NIBR with the Northern Ireland cancer registry. Deaths were identified by matching with death files from the Registrar General9s Office. BO patients were followed up until the end of December 2005 and patients with Results 7585 BO patients were followed up for an average of 5.02 years. The incidence (95% CI) of OAC per 100 person years was 0.18 (0.14, 0.23) and for combined events (OAC and high-grade dysplasia) the rate was 0.23 (0.19, 0.28). In robustly defined BO patients with evidence of a clinically visible segment and histologically confirmed SIM, OAC incidence was higher at 0.29 (0.21, 0.40) and 0.41 (0.31, 0.54) for combined events. OAC and HGD risk was further elevated in males and in patients with long segment BO, hiatus hernia or low-grade dysplasia (LGD). However, if the analysis was restricted to the robust definition of BO, only patients with LGD were at a heightened risk of these outcomes. Conclusion The risk of OAC in BO in this study is lower than previously reported, indicating that the currently recommended surveillance strategies for the detection of OAC in BO may not be cost effective. Limiting surveillance to those with LGD may improve the cost effectiveness of surveillance, however, this would miss a substantial portion of cancers. Further research into tissue biomarkers, optical recognition of dysplasia, endoscopic therapy for dysplasia and neoplasia is eagerly awaited.

Introduction Oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) incidence rates have increased dramatically in recent decades, particularly among white males in Western societies.1 There appears to be a concurrent rise in Barrett9s oesophagus (BO) incidence, the pre-cursor condition for OAC, although it is debated whether this is a true rise, or a reflection of changes in endoscopy practices together with improvement in disease recognition.2 The aim of our investigation was to assess BO incidence over a 13-year period using a population-based register in Northern Ireland. Methods The Northern Ireland Barrett9s oesophagus Register (NIBR) is a population-based register of all adults diagnosed with BO, defined as columnar epithelium of the oesophagus, in Northern Ireland between 1993 and 2005. Data on all upper gastro-intestinal endoscopies and oesophageal biopsies performed in Northern Ireland were obtained from healthcare providers. Annual BO incidence rates were calculated per 100 000 of the population, per 100 endoscopies and per 100 oesophageal biopsies performed. Results During the 13-year period, 197 635 patients underwent an endoscopy and 9390 of these were diagnosed with BO, of whom 58% were male. Average annual BO incidence rates over this time period are presented in Abstract 072. A 2.5-fold increase in BO incidence in the population was observed. Over the same time, there were 1.3 and 1.6-fold increases in endoscopy and biopsy rates in the population, respectively. Even with the increasing rates of endoscopy and biopsy, BO was still diagnosed more frequently per 100 endoscopies and per 100 biopsies. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that BO incidence rates in Northern Ireland have increased more rapidly than the rate of endoscopies or biopsies. This could indicate that a true rise in BO incidence has occurred, contributing to the increase in OAC seen in Western populations. This may have implications for efforts to prevent OAC.

Introduction Evidence is accumulating that vitamin D may be protective against the development of many cancers.[1][1] There are notable exceptions in the literature though, demonstrating increased risks of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and oesophageal squamous dysplasia for individuals with the highest serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D.[2][2] ,[3][3] Our aim was to explore the association between dietary vitamin D and related nutrients and the risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) and its pre-cursor conditions, Barrett's oesophagus (BO) and reflux oesophagitis (RO). Methods In an all-Ireland case-control study conducted between March 2002 and July 2005, 218 OAC patients, 212 long-segment BO patients, 208 RO patients and 252 healthy population-based controls completed a 101-item food frequency questionnaire, in addition to providing other lifestyle information and medical histories. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the association between vitamin D, calcium and dairy intake and disease risk, prior to and after adjustment for potential confounders. Stratified analyses were also conducted by body mass index status. Results OAC risk was significantly greater for individuals in the highest compared with the lowest tertile of vitamin D intake (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.86, p for trend=0.02) after adjustment for potential confounders. This elevated risk appeared to be accentuated in overweight (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.16 to 5.37) OAC patients, although formal tests for interaction were not significant. Vitamin D intake was unrelated to RO and BO risk. There were no significant associations observed for calcium or dairy intake and RO, BO or OAC risk. Conclusion A significant direct association was observed between vitamin D intake and OAC risk, which concurs with previous findings for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Vitamin D intake was unrelated to RO and BO risk. No significant associations were found between calcium or dairy intake and the risk of these oesophageal lesions. Further research is needed before recommendations to establish dietary vitamin D guidelines are implemented. [1]: #ref-1 [2]: #ref-2 [3]: #ref-3