bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPLEXITY IN PLASMAS
Authors: MENDONÇA J. T.
Published: September 2006

We give here a brief introduction to the plasma state. We consider the basic resonance processes in a plasma, in particular, the mode resonances and the particle resonances. We discuss the various mechanisms leading to complex behavior of particles and waves in a plasma. Discrete maps corresponding to typical plasma situations are used and their main properties are discussed. Complexity can also be applied to plasma transport and to magnetic confinement. The processes of particle acceleration and their possible use for plasma accelerators are also considered.
SYNCHRONIZATION PHENOMENA IN NETWORKS OF COUPLED RELAXATION ELECTROCHEMICAL OSCILLATIONS
Authors: KARANTONIS ANTONIS , PAGITSAS MICHAEL , MIYAKITA YASUYUKI , NAKABAYASHI SEIICHIRO
Published: September 2006

Networks of weakly coupled discrete electrochemical oscillators have the ability of synchronizing rapidly in-phase or out-of-phase, depending on the network geometry. It is shown that a network consisting of N relaxation electrochemical oscillators, coupled through inhibitory connections, can have (N - 1)! coexisting out-of-phase states, each state being a permutation of a periodic spiking sequence. The out-of-phase states can be modified by shots of laser pulse perturbations and the phase relation is stored as a coded spatiotemporal pattern. The ability of the network to function as a re-writable memory of (N - 1)! different spatiotemporal patterns is demonstrated experimentally for N = 4.
CONTROL ASPECTS OF A THEORETICAL MODEL FOR EPILEPTIC SEIZURES
Authors: TSAKALIS KOSTAS , IASEMIDIS LEON
Published: September 2006

We discuss the key features of theoretical models of networks of coupled chaotic oscillators that produce seizure-like events and bear striking similarities to dynamics of epileptic seizures. Our long-term objective is to understand the basic functional mechanisms that can produce seizures and may ultimately lead to strategies for seizure suppression and control. We show that, from a dynamical systems point of view, a plausible cause of seizures is a pathological feedback in the brain circuitry. This suggests new seizure control approaches, as well as systematic methods to tune existing ones. While the suggested models and control approaches are far from being considered optimal for epileptic seizures, they have interesting physical interpretation and implications for treatments of epilepsy. They also have close ties with a variety of recent practical observations in the human and animal epileptic brain, and with theories from adaptive systems, optimization and chaos.
COMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE METHODS FOR FINANCIAL TIME SERIES MODELING
Authors: PAVLIDIS N. G. , TASOULIS D. K. , PLAGIANAKOS V. P. , VRAHATIS M. N.
Published: September 2006

In this paper, the combination of unsupervised clustering algorithms with feedforward neural networks in exchange rate time series forecasting is studied. Unsupervised clustering algorithms have the desirable property of deciding on the number of partitions required to accurately segment the input space during the clustering process, thus relieving the user from making this ad hoc choice. Combining this input space partitioning methodology with feedforward neural networks acting as local predictors for each identified cluster helps alleviate the problem of nonstationarity frequently encountered in real-life applications. An improvement in the one-step-ahead forecasting accuracy was achieved compared to a global feedforward neural network model for the time series of the exchange rate of the German Mark to the US Dollar.
BLOCK ENTROPY ANALYSIS OF HEART RATE VARIABILITY SIGNALS
Authors: KARAMANOS K. , NIKOLOPOULOS S. , HIZANIDIS K. , MANIS G. , ALEXANDRIDI A. , NIKOLAKEAS S.
Published: September 2006

In this paper we present a novel approach to the analysis of Heat Rate Variability (HRV) data, by coarse-graining analysis using the estimation of Block Entropies with the technique of lumping. HRV time series are generated from long recordings of Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and are then filtered in order to produce a coarse-grained symbolic dynamics. Block Entropy analysis is applied to these dynamics in order to examine its coarse-grained statistics. Our data set is comprised of two subsets, one of healthy subjects and another of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) patients. It is found that Entropy analysis provides a quick and efficient tool for the differentiation of these series according to subject category. Healthy subjects provided more complex statistics compared to patients; specifically, the healthy data files provided higher values of block Entropies compared to patient ones. We also compare these results with the Correlation Dimension Estimation in order to establish coherency. We believe that this analysis may provide a useful statistical method towards the better understanding of the human cardiac system.
Statins of Different Brain Penetrability Differentially Affect CSF PLTP Activity
Authors: Vuletic Simona , Riekse Robert G. , Marcovina Santica M. , Peskind Elaine R. , Hazzard William R. , Albers John J.
Published: September 2006

Background/Aims: Phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) and apolipoprotein E (apoE) are key proteins involved in lipoprotein metabolism in the peripheral circulation and in the brain. Several epidemiological studies suggested that use of 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the effects of statins of differing blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetrability on brain-derived molecules in cognitively normal individuals are largely unknown. Methods: To assess the effect of statins on these indices as a function of BBB penetration, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma PLTP activity and apoE concentration were measured in cognitively intact, modestly hypercholesterolemic adults randomly allocated to treatment with either pravastatin, which does not penetrate BBB (80 mg/day, n = 13), or simvastatin, which penetrates BBB (40 mg/day, n = 10). Results: Simvastatin significantly increased CSF PLTP activity (p = 0.005). In contrast, pravastatin had no such effect. In the pravastatin-treated group, CSF apoE concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.026), while the simvastatin-treated group showed a tendency towards lower CSF apoE levels, with CSF apoE concentration lowered in 8 of 10 subjects. Conclusion: Our data indicate that statins differentially affect two key lipid transfer proteins in the brain, and that effect on PLTP activity depends on statin BBB penetrability.
Efficacy and Safety of Simultaneous Bilateral Pallidotomy in Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chung Sun J. , Hong Seok Ho , Kim Sung R. , Lee Myoung C. , Jeon Sang Ryong
Published: September 2006

Background: Although unilateral pallidotomy is generally considered a safe and effective neurosurgical treatment for advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD), controversies concerning efficacy and adverse effects of bilateral posteroventral pallidotomy (PVP) exist and need to be resolved. Methods: We studied 8 patients with advanced PD who underwent simultaneous bilateral PVP. The patients were assessed preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and 6 and 12 months later. Results: Dyskinesia was almost entirely abolished immediately after surgery, as well as being significantly lower 1 year later (p < 0.05). The ‘off’ medication score of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale motor part (UPDRS III) was significantly improved after surgery (p < 0.05) but increased gradually after 6 months. The off medication score of activities of daily living tended to improve immediately after surgery, but it returned to preoperative levels at 12 months. There were no major complications of surgery. Conclusions: Simultaneous bilateral PVP may be a safe and highly effective method of reducing levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Our results suggest that simultaneous bilateral PVP may be a reasonable therapeutic option for advanced PD with severe levodopa-induced dyskinesia.
Bilateral Effects of Unilateral Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation in Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chung Sun J. , Jeon Sang R. , Kim Sung R. , Sung Young H. , Lee Myoung C.
Published: September 2006

To investigate the bilateral effects of unilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS), we prospectively studied 9 consecutive advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients (2 men and 7 women) who underwent unilateral STN-DBS. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively with and without dopaminergic medications (‘on’ and ‘off’ medication, respectively). Postoperatively, patients were assessed with and without stimulation. We found that, when compared with baseline, the ‘off’ medication scores of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale motor part (UPDRS III) and activities of daily living (UPDRS II) were improved by 37% (p = 0.028) and 50% (p = 0.046) at 6 months after surgery, respectively. Stimulation while ‘off’ medication improved the total UPDRS score by 42% (p = 0.028) at 6 months. At 6 months after surgery, the subscore of UPDRS III of body parts contralateral to the DBS implantation had improved by 48% (p = 0.028), and the ipsilateral subscore of UPDRS III and the axial subscore of UPDRS III had improved by 20% (p = 0.027) and 39% (p = 0.028), respectively. Daily dosage of levodopa was reduced by 15% at 6 months. No patient exhibited permanent side effects. These findings indicate that unilateral STN-DBS may be a reasonable surgical procedure for selected PD patients who have markedly asymmetric parkinsonism.
Approaching Delusional Misidentification Syndromes as a Disorder of the Sense of Uniqueness
Authors: Margariti Maria M. , Kontaxakis Vassilis P.
Published: September 2006

Co-occurrence of the different types of delusional misidentification syndromes (DMS) implies a common pathogenetic substrate. Until now, theoretical explanations have strained to produce a collective approach, but have been trammeled by the initial definition of the syndromes (Capgras/Fregoli) that originated from the attribution of causal significance to the element of familiarity towards the misidentified object. In this article, we present two cases illustrating the co-occurrence of the syndromes and we attempt to propose a new approach to DMS. We hypothesize that a common potential pathogenetic factor underlying DMS could be a disorder of the sense of uniqueness. The ability to attribute uniqueness to the self and to surrounding people, objects, or places is a principal property of the adaptable mind that acts as a matrix for the identification process. We propose that although the term ‘identity’ encompasses the concept of uniqueness, this must be accomplished somewhere in a model of semantic processing of identity. Our approach is questioning the current view that this sequential stage is the PIN stage in the functional model of face recognition by Bruce and Young, and we attempt to see the disordered sense of uniqueness within the evolved form of the model of face recognition and delusional misidentification introduced by Ellis and Lewis. We propose that such a disturbance could result in an unstable identification process, vulnerable to discrepancies in perceptual, emotional, or memory input caused by psychotic or organic mental states, thus resulting in a breakdown of the identification process that inevitably leads to a delusion of denial of identity, or to a delusion of ‘doubles’.
Blood Pressure, Renal Function, and Proteinuria in Children with Unilateral Renal Agenesis
Authors: Seeman Tomáš , Patzer Ludwig , John Ulrike , Dušek Jiří , Vondrák Karel , Janda Jan , Misselwitz Joachim
Published: September 2006

Background/Aim: Unilateral renal agenesis (URA) is a model for a reduced nephron number that is believed to be a risk factor for blood pressure (BP) elevation and reduced renal function. The aim of the study was to investigate BP and renal function in children with URA. Methods: Data on children with URA from two pediatric nephrology centers were firstly retrospectively reviewed (renal ultrasound and scintigraphy, clinical BP, creatinine clearance, urinalysis). Children with normal renal ultrasound and scintigraphy were thereafter investigated using ambulatory BP monitoring. Results: Twenty-nine children with URA were investigated – 14 children with an abnormal kidney (mostly scarring) and 15 children with healthy kidneys. Hypertension was diagnosed on the basis of clinical BP in 57% of the children with abnormal kidneys and on the basis of ambulatory BP monitoring in 1 child (7%) with healthy kidneys. The mean ambulatory BP in children with normal kidneys was not significantly different from that in controls. Forty-three percent of the children with abnormal kidneys had a reduced renal function, but none of children with normal kidneys. Conclusions: Children with abnormalities of a solitary kidney have often hypertension, proteinuria, or a reduced renal function. In contrast, children with healthy solitary kidneys have BP and renal function similar to those of healthy children.
The Alteration of QT Dispersion in Hemodialysis Subjects
Authors: Tong YanQing , Hou HuoMing
Published: September 2006

Objective: We attempted to observe the alterations in QTd and QTcd in chronic renal failure (CRF) patients before and after hemodialysis (HD) to determine the relevant determinants of QTc duration in HD. Methods: The HD was carried out 2 or 3 times/week in a standard setting for 4–4.5 h. No drug therapy was applied during HD, except for isotonic NaCl infusions and sodium heparin. Maintenance drug therapy, including digitalis, antihypertensive, anti-anginal, and β-blocking agents, was not changed. In the study, we investigated the alterations in QTd and QTcd in 68 CRF patients before and after HD with 12-lead ECG. Plasma Na+, K+, ionized Ca, creatinine, urea nitrogen, and hemoglobin were also controlled before and after HD. Results: In our study QTd and QTcd significantly increased at the end of HD (p < 0.01). Plasma Na+ and K+ decreased, and ionized Ca increased after HD (p < 0.05, 0.01). Plasma Na+, K+, ionized Ca levels, ultrafiltration volume and myocardial ischemia appear to be the main determinants of QTc duration in HD, not hypertension, gender, patient age, or duration of chronic HD. Conclusion: Changes in plasma Na+, K+ and ionized Ca, the ultrafiltration volume and presence of ischemic heart disease in HD have significant effects on QTcd. ECG data demonstrate that the risk of arrhythmia could be higher with decreased plasma Na+ and K+, increased ionized Ca, the presence of ischemic heart disease and an increased ultrafiltration rate during HD. These results might provide some valuable references for proper HD programs.
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A
2
Protein Expression in the Natural Progression of Human Coronary Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kolodgie Frank D. , Burke Allen P. , Skorija Kristi S. , Ladich Elena , Kutys Robert , Makuria Addisalem Taye , Virmani Renu
Published: September 2006

Objective—

Although lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
(Lp-PLA
2
) has received recent attention as a biomarker of inflammation and risk for acute coronary events, its relative expression in coronary plaque phenotypes, including unstable lesions, has not been established.

Methods and Results—

Coronary segments (n=30) were prospectively collected from 25 sudden coronary death patients for immunolocalization of Lp-PLA
2
. Lesion morphologies were classified as pathologic intimal thickening, fibroatheromas, thin-cap fibroatheromas (fibrous cap thicknesses <65 μm), and rupture. The expression of Lp-PLA
2
was detected using a specific monoclonal antibody. Apoptosis was identified by DNA end-labeling using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT). Lp-PLA
2
staining in early plaques was absent or minimally detected. In contrast, thin-cap fibroatheromas and ruptured plaques showed intense Lp-PLA
2
expression within necrotic cores and surrounding macrophages including those in the fibrous cap. The degree of macrophage apoptosis was greater in thin-cap fibroatheroma and ruptures compared with less advanced plaques with additional double labeling studies showing Lp-PLA
2
present in apoptotic cells in regions of high macrophage density.

Conclusions—

Lp-PLA
2
is strongly expressed within the necrotic core and surrounding macrophages of vulnerable and ruptured plaques, with relatively weak staining in less advanced lesions. These findings together with the association of Lp-PLA
2
in apoptotic macrophages suggest a potential role in promoting plaque instability.
Perihematomal Mitochondrial Dysfunction After Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Sook Kim-Han Jeong , Kopp Sarah J. , Dugan Laura L. , Diringer Michael N.
Published: September 2006

Background and Purpose—

Recent measurements in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients suggest a primary reduction in brain metabolism is responsible for reduced cerebral blood flow and low oxygen extraction surrounding the hematoma. We sought to determine whether reduced mitochondrial respiratory function could account for reduced metabolic demand in ICH patients.

Methods—

Brain-tissue samples from 6 patients with acute spontaneous ICH and 6 control patients undergoing brain resection for management of seizure were evaluated. Only tissue removed from the brain adjacent to the hematoma was studied. Specimens were collected in the operating room; mitochondrial studies were begun within 1-hour. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption was measured after the addition of pyruvate, malate, and ADP, followed by oligomycin and carbonylcyanide.

Results—

The ICH patients ranged in age from 40 to 54 years; 2 were female and half black. Hemorrhages were located in the temporal lobe (3), cerebellum (2) and parietal lobe (1). The average State 3 (active) O
2
consumption for mitochondria from ICH patients was ≈40% lower than that of control patients (Controls: 129±39 versus ICH: 76±28 nmol O
2
/min per mg protein). With increasing time from hemorrhage to testing there was a progressive decline in State 3 respiration. Reduced State 3 respiration was evident even at 6 hours, whereas at 72 hours, there was essentially no O
2
consumption.

Conclusions—

These data support the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction and not ischemia is responsible for reduced oxygen metabolism in ICH. They point to a new direction for investigation and development of therapeutic interventions for ICH patients.
Development and Implementation of Evidence-Based Indicators for Measuring Quality of Acute Stroke Care
Authors: Heuschmann Peter U. , Biegler Marcel K. , Busse Otto , Elsner Susanne , Grau Armin , Hasenbein Uwe , Hermanek Peter , Janzen Rudolf W.C. , Kolominsky-Rabas Peter L. , Kraywinkel Klaus , Lowitzsch Klaus , Misselwitz Bjoern , Nabavi Darius G. , Otten Kirsten , Pientka Ludger , von Reutern Gerhard M. , Ringelstein Erich Bernd , Sander Dirk , Wagner Markus , Berger Klaus
Published: September 2006

Background and Purpose—

There is no consensus about indicators for measuring quality of acute stroke care in Germany. Therefore, a standardized process was initiated recently to develop and implement evidence-based indicators for the measurement of quality of acute hospital stroke care.

Methods—

Quality indicators were developed by a multidisciplinary board between November 2003 and December 2005. The process was initiated by the German Stroke Registers Study Group in cooperation with the German Stroke Society, the German Society of Neurology, the German Stroke Foundation, Regional Offices for Quality Assurance and other experts proven in the field. National and international recommendations were considered during the development process. The process was based on a systematic literature review, an independent external evaluation of the process and its results, and a prospective pilot study to evaluate the defined indicators in clinical practice.

Results—

Overall a set of 24 indicators was developed to measure performance of acute care hospitals in the 3 health care dimensions structure, process and outcome as well as in 3 treatment phases prehospital, in-hospital/acute and postacute. Practicability of the derived indicators was tested in a prospective pilot study. During a 2-month period, 1006 patients in 13 hospitals were documented. Application of the new indicator set was found to be feasible by participating physicians and hospitals. Median time to document the required information for 1 patient was 5 minutes. Nationwide implementation of the new indicator set within regional registers in Germany started since April 2006.

Conclusions—

The development of indicators to measure hospital performance in stroke care is an important step toward improving stroke care on a national level. The chosen standardized evidence-based approach ensures maximal transparency, acceptance and sustainability of the developed indicators in Germany.
Peasants and Debt in Eighteenth-Century Champagne
Authors: Brennan Thomas
Published: September 2006

Recent scholarship about debt in early-modern Europe has replaced an old model of misery and exploitation with a new paradigm that emphasizes the entrepreneurial rationale for going into debt. Reassessment of these arguments on the basis of detailed information about 5,000 rural households in France finds that debt posed a high risk of ruin to nearly half of the region's debtors and that viticulture played a unique role in stimulating a borrowing frenzy in the countryside.
Learning, Experience, and Cognitive Factors in the Presence Experiences of Gamers: An Exploratory Relational Study
Authors: Nunez David , Blake Edwin
Published: September 2006

This paper presents a large scale (N = 101) exploratory relational study of computer gamers' gaming habits and their presence experiences. The study posited and examined the effect of two presence maximization strategies (controlling distracters and maintaining updated computer hardware) and two hypothetical cognitive styles (thematic inertia and capacity to integrate non-diagetic information) on gamers' rating of the importance of presence in their gaming experiences. The data show that frequency of game playing, but not game playing experience, affect self-rated presence importance, and that presence importance does not decline with experience. The data also suggest that presence maximization strategies are erratically effective in improving gaming experiences, and that the capacity to integrate non-diagetic information (but not thematic inertia) is a reliable predictor of self-rated presence importance. The paper closes with suggestions for improving the method in order to study cross-population effects.
The Effect that the Visual and Haptic Problems Associated with Touching a Projection Augmented Model Have on Object-Presence
Authors: Bennett Emily , Stevens Brett
Published: September 2006

A projection augmented model (PA model) is a type of haptic augmented reality display. It consists of a real physical model, onto which a computer image is projected to create a realistic looking object. Thus, a PA model creates the illusion of actually being the object that it represents, as opposed to a white model and a projected image. Users can physically touch the surface of a PA model with their bare hands, which has experiential value for the types of applications for which they are being developed. However, the majority of PA models do not provide haptic feedback for material properties such as texture, and hence feel incorrect when they are touched. In addition, most PA models are front-projected which means the projected image appears on the back of the user's hand, and their hand casts a shadow on the display. Previous research has found that touching this type of PA model reduces a user's sense of object presence. The empirical study reported in this paper investigated which of the problems had a greater effect on object presence. It was found that object presence was significantly higher when correct haptic feedback for material properties was provided; however eliminating the visual projection problems rarely affected object presence. These results have implications for the direction in which PA model technology should be developed. They also have implications for theory on how the haptic and visual senses contribute to a person's sense of object presence, and indeed presence.
Is There a Role for SV40 in Human Cancer?
Authors: Poulin Danielle L. , DeCaprio James A.
Published: September 2006

The question of whether Simian Virus 40 (SV40) can cause human tumors has been one of the most highly controversial topics in cancer research during the last 50 years. The longstanding debate began with the discovery of SV40 as a contaminant in poliovirus vaccine stocks that were used to inoculate approximately 100 million children and adults in the United States between 1955 and 1963, and countless more throughout the world. Concerns regarding the potential health risk of SV40 exposure were reinforced by studies demonstrating SV40's potential to transform human cells and promote tumor growth in animal models. Many studies have attempted to assess the relationship between the potential exposure of humans to SV40 and cancer incidence. Reports of the detection of SV40 DNA in a variety of cancers have raised serious concerns as to whether the inadvertent inoculation with SV40 has led to the development of cancer in humans. However, inconsistent reports linking SV40 with various tumor types has led to conflicting views regarding the potential of SV40 as a human cancer virus. Several recent studies suggest that older detection methodologies were flawed, and the limitations of these methods could account for most, if not all, of the positive correlations of SV40 in human tumors to date. Although many people may have been exposed to SV40 by polio vaccination, there is inadequate evidence to support widespread SV40 infection in the population, increased tumor incidence in those individuals who received contaminated vaccine, or a direct role for SV40 in human cancer.
Increased Expression of Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator mRNA Determines Adverse Prognosis in ErbB2-Positive Primary Breast Cancer
Authors: Urban Patrick , Vuaroqueaux Vincent , Labuhn Martin , Delorenzi Mauro , Wirapati Pratyaksha , Wight Edward , Senn Hans-Jörg , Benz Christopher , Eppenberger Urs , Eppenberger-Castori Serenella
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To evaluate and validate mRNA expression markers capable of identifying patients with ErbB2-positive breast cancer associated with distant metastasis and reduced survival.

Patients and Methods

Expression of 60 genes involved in breast cancer biology was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qrt-PCR) in 317 primary breast cancer patients and correlated with clinical outcome data. Results were validated subsequently using two previously published and publicly available microarray data sets with different patient populations comprising 295 and 286 breast cancer samples, respectively.

Results

Of the 60 genes measured by qrt-PCR, urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA or PLAU) mRNA expression was the most significant marker associated with distant metastasis-free survival (MFS) by univariate Cox analysis in patients with ErbB2-positive tumors and an independent factor in multivariate analysis. Subsequent validation in two microarray data sets confirmed the prognostic value of uPA in ErbB2-positive tumors by both univariate and multivariate analysis. uPA mRNA expression was not significantly associated with MFS in ErbB2-negative tumors. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed in all three study populations that patients with ErbB2-positive/uPA–positive tumors exhibited significantly reduced MFS (hazard ratios [HR], 4.3; 95% CI, 1.6 to 11.8; HR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.2 to 6.2; and, HR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.1 to 7.1; all P < .02) as compared with the group with ErbB2-positive/uPA–negative tumors who exhibited similar outcome to those with ErbB2-negative tumors, irrespective of uPA status.

Conclusion

After evaluation of 898 breast cancer patients, uPA mRNA expression emerged as a powerful prognostic indicator in ErbB2-positive tumors. These results were consistent among three independent study populations assayed by different techniques, including qrt-PCR and two microarray platforms.
Transcript Profiling of the Androgen Signal in Normal Prostate, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, and Prostate Cancer
Authors: Bauman David R. , Steckelbroeck Stephan , Peehl Donna M. , Penning Trevor M.
Published: September 2006

Human prostate adenocarcinoma (CaP) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have epithelial and stromal cell origins, respectively. To determine whether the androgen signal is processed differently in these cell types the expression of transcripts for enzymes that control ligand access to the androgen receptor (AR) were measured. Transcripts for type 2 5α-reductase, ketosteroid reductases [aldo-keto reductase (AKR)1C1-AKR1C4], the major oxidative 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) retinol dehydrogenase (RODH)-like 3α-HSD (RL-HSD) and nuclear receptors [AR, estrogen receptor (ER)α, and ERβ] were determined in whole human prostate and in cultures of primary epithelial cells (PEC) and primary stromal cells (PSC) from normal prostate, CaP and BPH by real-time RT-PCR. Normal PEC (n = 14) had higher levels of AKR1C1 (10-fold, P < 0.001), AKR1C2 (115-fold, P < 0.001) and AKR1C3 (6-fold, P < 0.001) than normal PSC (n = 15), suggesting that reductive androgen metabolism occurs. By contrast, normal PSC had higher levels of AR (8-fold, P < 0.001) and RL-HSD (21-fold, P < 0.001) than normal PEC, suggesting that 3α-androstanediol is converted to 5α-dihydrotestosterone to activate AR. In CaP PEC (n = 14), no significant changes in transcript levels vs. normal PEC were observed. In BPH PSC (n = 21) transcripts for AR (2-fold, P < 0.001), AKR1C1 (4-fold, P < 0.001), AKR1C2 (10-fold P < 0.001), AKR1C3 (4-fold, P < 0.001) and RL-HSD (3-fold, P < 0.003) were elevated to increase androgen response. Differences in the AR:ERβ transcript ratios (eight in normal PEC vs. 280 in normal PSC) were maintained in PEC and PSC in diseased prostate. These data suggest that CaP may be more responsive to an ERβ agonist and BPH may be more responsive to androgen ablation.
Frontal sinus fractures
Authors: Haskell Newman M. , Travis Lawrence W.
Published: September 2006

Opinions vary regarding the treatment of fractures of the frontal bone with frontal sinus extension. Each surgeon bases his therapeutic approach on his teachings and experience, but he may fail to recognize significant residuals be unaware of related complications that occur after the patient is released from his care. The treatment criteria may furthermore be shaded by the experiences of a surgeon who recognizes an occasional post injury complication and proposes treatment of the acute injury which is unnecessarily radical.

Clearly, such divergence of opinion can be unified only through critical long‐term follow‐up of patients whose acute frontal sinus injury is carefully analyzed, categorized and systematically treated.

The purpose of this discussion is to share a 10‐year experience in the acute management of 63 frontal sinus fractures, treated at the University of Michigan Medical Center Hospitals between 1961 and 1971. The case summaries have been divided into three groups based on the site or sites of sinus fracture, as assessed at the time of the initial injury. Of the 63 total cases, 30 involved fractures of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus; 16 fractures included injury to the nasofrontal duct, and 17 cases involved the posterior wall of the frontal sinus.
Mediastinoscopy: A review of 450 cases
Authors: Preciado Manuel C. , Duvall Arndt J. , Koop Severin H.
Published: September 2006

This study represents an analysis of 450 mediastinoscopies performed at the University of Minnesota Hospitals between July, 1964, and February, 1972.

The complication rate was 1.8 percent and there was no mortality.

The overall positive biopsy rate was 44.0 percent with 93 benign and 105 malignant diagnoses made by mediastinoscopy.

The yield of mediastinoscopy in bronchogenic carcinoma was significantly better than that of bronchoscopy, cytology and scalene node biopsy.

At 19 thoracotomies in patients with positive mediastinoscopy the lesions were found to be unresectable.

Contraindications to mediastinoscopy are few, the only absolute one being a previous mediastinoscopy. Mediastinoscopy is indicated in all cases of bronchogenic carcinoma to determine resectability. Mediastinoscopy is the procedure of choice for the diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
Anatomy of the facial nerve (spatial orientation of fibers in the temporal bone)
Authors: May Mark
Published: September 2006

The spatial relations of the peripheral branches of the facial nerve within the temporal bone were studied. Five groups of experiments were performed, using 48 adult cats. The topographical anatomy of the horizontal segment was demonstrated by evoked EMG in two cats with injuries to the lateral aspect of the horizontal segment of the facial nerve. The upper face was more severely injured than the lower. The cross sectional spatial anatomy of the horizontal segment of the facial nerve was mapped out in seven cats by histopathologically correlating the lesion site with the peripheral distribution. Gross dissections in 14 cats demonstrated the cross sectional spatial relationships of the peripheral fibers at the stylomastoid foramen and distal portion of the vertical segment. Temporal bone sections in five cats added further to the orientation of the facial nerve.

The following conclusions were drawn from this study:

The facial nerve was spatially oriented in its tympanomastoid segment; the branches to the ear and chorda tympani nerve were lateral (toward the mastoid cortex); the forehead and eye lateroanterior (toward the middle ear); the lower lip anteromedial (toward the floor of the middle ear); the upper midface posterior (toward the horizontal canal), and the lower midface just anterior to the upper midface.

The peripheral fibers rotated as they coursed from the stylomastoid foramen toward the face; the lower branches twisted under and medial to the branch just above them. The lower face branches twisted from an anteromedial position in the horizontal segment to a posteromedial position at the stylomastoid foramen. The upper midface branches changed position from a posterolateral position at the horizontal segment to anteromedial at the stylomastoid foramen.

The branch to the stapedial muscle separated from the horizontal segment of the facial nerve from a posteromedial position.

The branch to the stylohyoid muscle and posterior bolly of the digastric muscle separated from the facial nerve just beyond the stylomastoid foramen from a posteromedial position.

A review of the literature suggested a close resemblance between the anatomy of the facial nerve in cat and man; therefore, the detailed anatomy of the cross section of the cat's facial nerve within the temporal bone should have direct clinical application.
I. New data for noise standards
Authors: Henderson Donald , Hamernik Roger P. , Crossley James
Published: September 2006

Continuous and impulse noises, considered “safe” by existing damage risk criteria were combined to model more realistic noise environments. Monaural chinchilla were exposed to one of the following conditions: a. 50 impulses with a 40 m̈, sec A‐duration at 158 db SPL peak pressure, 1/ minute; b. 95 db SPL continuous noise at 2–4 kHz for one hour; and c. superimposed combination of the continuous and impulse noise. Quiet thresholds were measured before and after exposure using the auditory evoked response, and histology was obtained, using the surface preparation technique. The audiometric and histological findings agree in showing that the superimposed combination of two “safe” noises produces traumatic effects that more than exceed the additive effects of either component. The existing damage risk criteria do not provide guidelines for such noise combinations.
II. Effects of insulin on glucose concentrations in inner ear fluids and cochlear microphonics
Authors: Makimoto Kazuo , Silverstein Herbert
Published: September 2006

Fluids from various inner ear compartments were taken from 77 ears of 70 normal, healthy cats and were analyzed for glucose concentration by the microchemical technique employing the hexokinase method. Perilymph of the scala vestibuli, perilymph of the scala tympani and C.S.F. had almost identical concentrations of glucose with the values approximately 80 mg/100 ml. Glucose concentrations of each fluid showed the significant relationship with serum glucose level except that of utricular and cochlear endolymph. Utricular endolymph glucose level was found to be lower (41.9 mg/100 ml) than the above three fluids and higher than cochlear endolymph (11.2 mg/100 ml). The significant difference of glucose concentration found between cochlear and utricular endolymph in the present study is further support for the independent nature of each endolymphatic compartment.

Sodium, potassium and glucose were analyzed in serum, C.S.F. and inner ear fluids up to five hours after intravenous regular insulin (30 units/kg). Sodium, potassium and glucose concentrations were unchanged in both cochlear and utricular endolymph during hypoglycemia. In contrast glucose concentrations in C.S.F., scala tympani perilymph, and scala vestibuli perilymph began to decrease at 90 minutes after regular insulin infusion and fell to their lowest levels in the period during 180 to 300 minutes after the infusion. A significant decrease of potassium concentration was found first in serum and later in the C.S.F., scala vestibuli, and scala tympani perilymph. For five hours after insulin infusion there is no significant change in cochlear microphonics during hypoglycemia (20 mg percent).
IV. The physiological effects of priming for audiogenic seizures in mice
Authors: Saunders James C.
Published: September 2006

Recent investigations have shown that nonsusceptible strains of mice can be made susceptible to audiogenic seizures by exposing them to intense sound during a “sensitive period.” The parameters of seizures behavior that accompany this priming procedure have been studied extensively and more recently the physiological processes that are associated with this phenomenon have received attention. The results indicate that priming causes a severe loss in cochlear microphonic sensitivity and extensive damage to basal turn hair cells. The patterns of evoked response activity in peripheral auditory nuclei show a loss in threshold sensitivity at low stimulus levels and over recruitment of response amplitude at high stimulus levels. Although there is a severe loss of cochlear function in these animals, intense stimuli paradoxically evoke exceptionally large re‐responses and precipitate seizure behavior. Several hypotheses concerning this paradox are offered, and the potential significance of the priming phenomenon is considered.
Conservative tympanomastoidectomy
Authors: Cole J. M.
Published: September 2006

The objectives of tympanomastoid surgery are elimination of irreversible middle ear and mastoid disease, usually cholesteatoma, and maintenance or restoration of serviceable unaided hearing. There are a surprising number of techniques described in the literature but in essence they break down into two schools of thought, those who favor an intact posterior canal wall technique in most cases and those who feel that the possibly improved hearing results obtained with an intact posterior canal wall technique do not warrant the additional risks involved. Sheehy recently has reported an incidence of 35 percent persistence or regrowth of cholesteatoma found in mastoid re‐explorations following the intact posterior canal wall technique for management of epitympanic and mastoid cholesteatoma.

We believe there are excellent reasons for removing the posterior canal wall routinely in dealing with mastoid cholesteatoma. This technique is far superior in obtaining permanent control of the disease process, usually results in a small trouble‐free mastoid cavity, and does not seriously interfere with reconstruction of a serviceable sound conducting mechanism in the majority of cases.

In analyzing the results of 100 consecutive mastoid operations for the period from 1970 through 1972, it was possible to maintain or reconstruct the sound conducting mechanism in 94 percent. In those cases which had preoperative bone conduction of 35 db ISO or better for the speech frequencies, the type and percentage hearing results obtained are presented. Endaural modified radical mastoidectomy combined with tympanoplastic repair at the time of definitive surgery permits maximum visualization of the middle ear space. Because most mastoids which harbor cholesteatoma are sclerotic, small trouble‐free mastoid cavities result from this type of surgery and the open mastoid technique offers the best prospects to the patient for obtaining a dry safe ear without danger of persistent or recurrent cholesteatoma in the mastoid segment. It does not seriously preclude tympanoplastic reconstruction of a functioning sound conduction mechanism. When feasible, tympanoplastic repair should be done at the same time definitive mastoid surgery is done. This can usually be accomplished in one brief hospitalization and a minimum of postoperative visits to the physician's office.
Communicating with Nurses: The Experiences of 10 Individuals with an Acquired Severe Communication Impairment
Authors: Balandin Susan , Hemsley Bronwyn , Sigafoos Jeff , Green Vanessa , Forbes Ralph , Taylor Christine , Parmenter Trevor
Published: September 2006

Successful communication is integral to quality health care and successful nursing practice. Ten people who had been in hospital in the 12 months prior to the study and who had no functional speech at that time were interviewed about their communication experiences with nurses. Overall, these individuals experienced difficulties, some of which appeared to be related to a lack of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) resources and a lack of knowledge of AAC among nurses. In addition, the participants noted that nurses did not always have the time or the skills to communicate effectively with them. The participants suggested strategies to improve communication interactions between patients with no or limited functional speech and nurses. These strategies include pre-admission briefing and training nurses about effective strategies for communicating with patients who are unable to speak, including the use of augmentative and alternative communication systems.
Significance of Elecsys® S100 immunoassay for real-time assessment of traumatic brain damage in multiple trauma patients
Authors: Mussack Thomas , Kirchhoff Chlodwig , Buhmann Sonja , Biberthaler Peter , Ladurner Roland , Gippner-Steppert Cornelia , Mutschler Wolf , Jochum Marianne
Published: September 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1140–5.
Molecular assay for detection of the common carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A 1436(C>T) mutation
Authors: Park Jason Y. , Narayan Srinivas B. , Bennett Michael J.
Published: September 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1090–1.
Influence of the number of regeneration cycles on the removal of ammoniacal nitrogen with zeolite clinoptilolite
Authors: López-Vigil M.S. , Orta de Velásquez M.T. , Ramírez Zamora R.M.
Published: September 2006

The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of the number of regeneration cycles on the removal of ammoniacal nitrogen from aqueous solutions with zeolite clinoptilolite (in its sodium or homo-ionic form). In addition, the obtained results were correlated with the physicochemical properties of regenerated homo-ionic zeolites. A unifactorial experimental design, balanced with permanent effects, was applied to assess the removal of ammoniacal nitrogen with homo-ionic zeolites presenting 0–10 sodium regeneration cycles (Z0–Z10). The experimental conditions of trials were as follows: pH 7, contact time was 30 min, stirring speed was 100 rpm, in completely mixed batch reactors. Samples of natural zeolite (ZN without sodium homo-ionization) and homo-ionic zeolites (Z0–Z10) were used to determine their surface properties by using the BET-N2 method (surface area (m2/g), pore volume (cm3/g) and pore diameter (Å)). Other determined properties were the zeta potential (by micro-electrophoresis), percentage of elements (by the X-ray disperse spectrometric method) and particle morphology by scanning electronic microscopy. The results have shown that homo-ionic zeolites had a high removal capacity of ammoniacal nitrogen; this and other properties did not change in a significant way, even after a number of regeneration cycles as high as 10.
Adsorption test of semi-volatile di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in coagulation and flocculation processes with/without bubble in closed jar tester
Authors: Thaveemaitree Y. , Nakajima F. , Furumai H. , Kunikane S.
Published: September 2006

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is widely used and abundantly exists in the environment. Due to fresh water contamination, DEHP can enter drinking water treatment and be adsorbed on solid floc generated mostly from coagulation and flocculation processes. This study aimed to quantify the distribution of DEHP in liquid/solids (floating scum, suspended solids and settled sludge) after coagulation and flocculation processes with/without bubble. For this purpose, we developed a closed jar tester to prevent DEHP volatilization and contamination from the laboratory environment. According to DEHP adsorption results, the aluminium coagulant is an important factor for DEHP adsorption and the floating solid contained more DEHP than the settled solid. 60–72% of initial DEHP was found in solid under conditions with aluminium coagulant, whereas 3–5% of initial DEHP was found in solid under the condition without coagulant. When the bubble presented, DEHP concentration in the solids in the top and middle layers increased. The 55 minutes of operation time (coagulant, flocculation and settling processes) was not long enough to achieve the equilibrium of DEHP adsorption especially in the cases with coagulant.
The efficiency and mechanism of γ-alumina catalytic ozonation of 2-methylisoborneol in drinking water
Authors: Chen L. , Qi F. , Xu B. , Xu Z. , Shen J. , Li K.
Published: September 2006

The efficiency and mechanism in degradation of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) as a taste and odour compound in drinking water were studied under the condition where γ-alumina catalysed ozonation. As a result, γ-alumina can show distinct activity in enhancing the efficiency of ozonation of MIB. Tert-butyl alcohol had a remarkable effect on the removal efficiency of catalytic ozonation of MIB. The surface charge status, surface hydroxyl group status of γ-alumina, and pH values of the solution can be linked together. When the pH value of the solution was near the pHzpc of γ-Al2O3, there was observable activity in the catalysed ozonation process. Rct, which denoted the relative concentration of hydroxyl radical (·OH), was much higher in the catalysed ozonation process than in the ozonation process. This result further illuminated that γ-Al2O3 can promote ozone decomposition to produce ·OH. Finally, the effect of rP/I on catalysed ozone decomposition and ozone decomposition was investigated.