bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potent Reduction of Apolipoprotein B and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol by Short-Term Administration of an Antisense Inhibitor of Apolipoprotein B
Authors: Kastelein John J.P. , Wedel Mark K. , Baker Brenda F. , Su John , Bradley JoAnn D. , Yu Rosie Z. , Chuang Emil , Graham Mark J. , Crooke Rosanne M.
Published: October 2006

Background—Apolipoprotein B (apoB) is an important structural component of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and plays a key role in LDL-C transport and removal. Reduction in apoB synthesis is expected to reduce circulating LDL-C, a proven risk factor of cardiovascular disease. In the present study, we describe the outcome of the first-in-humans study on the safety and efficacy of an antisense oligonucleotide inhibitor of apoB.

Methods and Results—This study was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation investigation conducted at a single site in 36 volunteers with mild dyslipidemia. The study utilized an initial single dose of 50 to 400 mg of ISIS 301012, a 20-mer oligonucleotide, followed by a 4-week multiple-dosing regimen with the same assigned dose. Safety was assessed by the incidence, severity, and relationship of adverse events to dose. Efficacy was determined by changes in serum apoB and LDL-C relative to baseline and placebo. The most common adverse event was erythema at the injection site (21 of 29 subjects). ApoB was reduced by a maximum of 50% (P=0.002) from baseline in the 200-mg cohort. This decrease in apoB coincided with a maximum 35% reduction of LDL-C (P=0.001). LDL-C and apoB remained significantly below baseline (P<0.05) up to 3 months after the last dose.

Conclusions—Administration of an antisense oligonucleotide to human apoB resulted in a significant, prolonged, and dose-dependent reduction in apoB and LDL-C. Although injection-site reactions were common, adherence to protocol was unaffected.
Results From the Loire-Ardèche-Drôme-Isère-Puy-de-Dôme (LADIP) Trial on Atrial Flutter, a Multicentric Prospective Randomized Study Comparing Amiodarone and Radiofrequency Ablation After the First Episode of Symptomatic Atrial Flutter
Authors: Da Costa Antoine , Thévenin Jérôme , Roche Frédéric , Romeyer-Bouchard Cécile , Abdellaoui Loucif , Messier Marc , Denis Lucien , Faure Emmanuel , Gonthier Régis , Kruszynski Georges , Pages J. Marie , Bonijoly Serge , Lamaison Dominique , Defaye Pascal , Barthélemy J. Claude , Gouttard Thierry , Isaaz Karl
Published: October 2006

Background—

There is no published randomized study comparing amiodarone therapy and radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) after only 1 episode of symptomatic atrial flutter (AFL). The aim of the Loire-Ardèche-Drôme-Isère-Puy-de-Dôme (LADIP) Trial of Atrial Flutter was 2-fold: (1) to prospectively compare first-line RFA (group I) versus cardioversion and amiodarone therapy (group II) after only 1 AFL episode; and (2) to determine the impact of both treatments on the long-term risk of subsequent atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and Results—

From October 2002 to February 2006, 104 patients (aged 78±5 years; 20 women) with AFL were included, with 52 patients in group I and 52 patients in group II. The cumulative risk of AFL or AF was interpreted with the use of Kaplan-Meier curves and compared by the log-rank test. Clinical presentation, echocardiographic data, and follow-up were as follows: age (78.5±5 versus 78±5 years), history of AF (27% versus 21.6%); structural heart disease (58% versus 65%), left ventricular ejection fraction (56±14% versus 54.5±14%), left atrial size (43±7 versus 43±6 mm), mean follow-up (13±6 versus 13±6 months;
P
=NS), recurrence of AFL (3.8% versus 29.5%;
P
<0.0001), and occurrence of significant AF beyond 10 minutes (25% versus 18%;
P
=0.3). Five complications (10%) were noted in group II (sick sinus syndrome in 2, hyperthyroidism in 1, and hypothyroidism in 2) and none in group I (0%) (
P
=0.03).

Conclusions—

RFA should be considered a first-line therapy even after the first episode of symptomatic AFL. There is a better long-term success rate, the same risk of subsequent AF, and fewer secondary effects.
Anabolic Deficiency in Men With Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Jankowska Ewa A. , Biel Bartosz , Majda Jacek , Szklarska Alicja , Lopuszanska Monika , Medras Marek , Anker Stefan D. , Banasiak Waldemar , Poole-Wilson Philip A. , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: October 2006

Background—

The age-related decline of circulating anabolic hormones in men is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We studied the prevalence and prognostic consequences of deficiencies in circulating total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in men with chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods and Results—

Serum levels of TT, DHEAS, and IGF-1 were measured with immunoassays in 208 men with CHF (median age 63 years; median left ventricular ejection fraction 33%; New York Heart Association class I/II/III/IV, 19/102/70/17) and in 366 healthy men. Serum levels of free testosterone were estimated (eFT) from levels of TT and sex hormone binding globulin. Deficiencies in DHEAS, TT, eFT, and IGF-1, defined as serum levels at or below the 10th percentile of healthy peers, were seen across all age categories in men with CHF. DHEAS, TT, and eFT were inversely related to New York Heart Association class irrespective of cause (all
P
<0.01). DHEAS correlated positively with left ventricular ejection fraction and inversely with N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (both
P
<0.01). Circulating TT, eFT, DHEAS, and IGF-1 levels were prognostic markers in multivariable models when adjusted for established prognostic factors (all
P
<0.05). Men with CHF and normal levels of all anabolic hormones had the best 3-year survival rate (83%, 95% CI 67% to 98%) compared with those with deficiencies in 1 (74% survival rate, 95% CI 65% to 84%), 2 (55% survival rate, 95% CI 45% to 66%), or all 3 (27% survival rate, 95% CI 5% to 49%) anabolic endocrine axes (
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

In male CHF patients, anabolic hormone depletion is common, and a deficiency of each anabolic hormone is an independent marker of poor prognosis. Deficiency of >1 anabolic hormone identifies groups with a higher mortality.
State Building and Democratization in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bratton Michael , Chang Eric C. C.
Published: October 2006

Across sub-Saharan Africa, new democracies emerge only in the context of relatively effective states. Using aggregate indicators of democracy and governance plus new public opinion data, the authors show which aspects of state building are most important. The scope of state infrastructure and the delivery of welfare services have little impact on democratization. But the establishment of a rule of law—as experienced through improvements in personal security and the popular perception that leaders respect the constitution—is critical to building democracy. But because the legitimacy of the state is itself a reciprocal product of democratization, studies of African states and regimes, presently separated, should be connected.
Late Adolescent Girls’ Sexual Experiences and Sexual Satisfaction
Authors: Impett Emily A. , Tolman Deborah L.
Published: October 2006

This study presented and tested a model of sexual satisfaction for late adolescent girls. In this model, sexual self-concept and approach sexual motives were tested as predictors of adolescent girls’ sexual satisfaction with their most recent experience of sexual intercourse. A total of 116 girls in 12th grade (ages 16-19) completed measures of sexual self-concept and sexual experiences. A smaller number of girls (n = 70) with intercourse experience completed measures of their motives for engaging in sex and their sexual satisfaction with their most recent intercourse experience. Results showed that both sexual self-concept and approach sexual motives were associated with greater sexual experience across a broad range of sexual behaviors. Furthermore, sexual self-concept and approach sex motives predicted higher sexual satisfaction at most recent intercourse. The importance of investigating positive factors in girls’ developing sexuality is discussed.
The impact of altered p53 dosage on hematopoietic stem cell dynamics during aging
Authors: Dumble Melissa , Moore Lynette , Chambers Stuart M. , Geiger Hartmut , Van Zant Gary , Goodell Margaret A. , Donehower Lawrence A.
Published: October 2006

A temporal decline in tissue stem cell functionality may be a key component of mammalian aging. The tumor suppressor p53 has recently been implicated as a potential regulator of aging. We examined age-associated hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) dynamics in mice with varying p53 activities. Reduced p53 activity in p53+/− mice was associated with higher numbers of proliferating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in old age compared with aged wild-type (p53+/+) mice. We also assessed HSC dynamics in a p53 mutant mouse model (p53+/m) with higher apparent p53 activity than wild-type mice. The p53 hypermorphic (p53+/m) mice display phenotypes of premature aging. Many aged p53+/m organs exhibit reduced cellularity and atrophy, suggesting defects in stem-cell regenerative capacity. HSC numbers from old p53+/m mice fail to increase with age, unlike those of their p53+/+ and p53+/− counterparts. Moreover, transplantation of 500 HSCs from old p53+/m mice into lethally irradiated recipients resulted in reduced engraftment compared with old wild-type p53+/+ and p53+/− HSCs. Thus, alteration of p53 activity affects stem-cell numbers, proliferation potential, and hematopoiesis in older organisms, supporting a model in which aging is caused in part by a decline in tissue stem cell regenerative function.
Molecular characterisation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in the First National Survey of Anti-tuberculosis Drug Resistance from Venezuela
Authors: Aristimuño Liselotte , Armengol Raimond , Cebollada Alberto , España Mercedes , Guilarte Alexis , Lafoz Carmen , Lezcano María A , Revillo María J , Martín Carlos , Ramírez Carmen , Rastogi Nalin , Rojas Janet , de Salas Albina Vázques , Sola Christophe , Samper Sofía
Published: October 2006

Background

Molecular typing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains has become a valuable tool in the epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB) by allowing detection of outbreaks, tracking of epidemics, identification of genotypes and transmission events among patients who would have remained undetected by conventional contact investigation. This is the first genetic biodiversity study of M. tuberculosis in Venezuela. Thus, we investigated the genetic patterns of strains isolated in the first survey of anti-tuberculosis drug-resistance realised as part of the Global Project of Anti-tuberculosis Drug Resistance Surveillance (WHO/IUATLD).

Results

Clinical isolates (670/873) were genotyped by spoligotyping. The results were compared with the international spoligotyping database (SpolDB4). Multidrug resistant (MDR) strains (14/18) were also analysed by IS6110-RFLP assays, and resistance to isoniazid and rifampicin was characterised.

Spoligotyping grouped 82% (548/670) of the strains into 59 clusters. Twenty new spoligotypes (SITs) specific to Venezuela were identified. Eight new inter-regional clusters were created. The Beijing genotype was not found. The genetic network shows that the Latin American and Mediterranean family constitutes the backbone of the genetic TB population-structure in Venezuela, responsible of >60% of total TB cases studied. MDR was 0.5% in never treated patients and 13.5% in previously treated patients. Mutations in rpoB gene and katG genes were detected in 64% and 43% of the MDR strains, respectively.

Two clusters were found to be identical by the four different analysis methods, presumably representing cases of recent transmission of MDR tuberculosis.

Conclusion

This study gives a first overview of the M. tuberculosis strains circulating in Venezuela during the first survey of anti-tuberculosis drug-resistance. It may aid in the creation of a national database that will be a valuable support for further studies.
PR genes of apple: identification and expression in response to elicitors and inoculation with Erwinia amylovora
Authors: Bonasera Jean M , Kim Jihyun F , Beer Steven V
Published: October 2006

Background

In the past decade, much work has been done to dissect the molecular basis of the defence signalling pathway in plants known as Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR). Most of the work has been carried out in model species such as Arabidopsis, with little attention paid to woody plants. However within the range of species examined, components of the pathway seem to be highly conserved. In this study, we attempted to identify downstream components of the SAR pathway in apple to serve as markers for its activation.

Results

We identified three pathogenesis related (PR) genes from apple, PR-2, PR-5 and PR-8, which are induced in response to inoculation with the apple pathogen, Erwinia amylovora, but they are not induced in young apple shoots by treatment with known elicitors of SAR in herbaceous plants. We also identified three PR-1-like genes from apple, PR-1a, PR-1b and PR-1c, based solely on sequence similarity to known PR-1 genes of model (intensively researched) herbaceous plants. The PR-1-like genes were not induced in response to inoculation with E. amylovora or by treatment with elicitors; however, each showed a distinct pattern of expression.

Conclusion

Four PR genes from apple were partially characterized. PR-1a, PR-2, PR-5 and PR-8 from apple are not markers for SAR in young apple shoots. Two additional PR-1-like genes were identified through in-silico analysis of apple ESTs deposited in GenBank. PR-1a, PR-1b and PR-1c are not involved in defence response or SAR in young apple shoots; this conclusion differs from that reported previously for young apple seedlings.
Amlodipine versus angiotensin II receptor blocker; control of blood pressure evaluation trial in diabetics (ADVANCED-J)
Authors: Kawamori Ryuzo , Daida Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yasushi , Miyauchi Katsumi , Kitagawa Akira , Hayashi Dobun , Kishimoto Junji , Ikeda Shunya , Imai Yutaka , Yamazaki Tsutomu
Published: October 2006

Background

The coexistence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The U.K. Prospective Diabetes Study has shown that blood pressure control as well as blood glucose control is efficient for prevention of complications in hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus. However, some reports have shown that it is difficult to control the blood pressure and the concomitant use of a plurality of drugs is needed in hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus. In recent years renin-angiotensin system depressants are increasingly used for the blood pressure control in diabetic patients. Particularly in Japan, angiotensin II (A II) antagonists are increasingly used. However, there is no definite evidence of the point of which is efficient for the control, the increase in dose of A II antagonist or the concomitant use of another drug, in hypertensive patients whose blood pressure levels are inadequately controlled with A II antagonist.

Methods/Design

Hypertensive patients of age 20 years or over with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have been treated by the single use of AII antagonist at usual doses for at least 8 weeks or patients who have been treated by the concomitant use of AII antagonist and an antihypertensive drug other than calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors at usual doses for at least 8 weeks are included.

Discussion

We designed a multi-center, prospective, randomized, open label, blinded-endpoint trial,ADVANCED-J, to compare the increases in dose of A II antagonist and the concomitant use of a Ca-channel blocker (amlodipine) and A II antagonist in hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus, whose blood pressure levels were inadequately controlled with A II antagonist. This study is different from the usual previous studies in that home blood pressures are assessed as indicators of evaluation of blood pressure. TheADVANCED-Jstudy may have much influence on selection of antihypertensive drugs for treatment in hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus. It is expected to give an important hint for considering the validity of selection of antihypertensive drugs from the aspects not only of the antihypertensive effect but medical cost-effectiveness.
Dual use of Medicare and the Veterans Health Administration: are there adverse health outcomes?
Authors: Wolinsky Fredric D , Miller Thomas R , An Hyonggin , Brezinski Paul R , Vaughn Thomas E , Rosenthal Gary E
Published: October 2006

Background

Millions of veterans are eligible to use the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Medicare because of their military service and age. This article examines whether an indirect measure of dual use based on inpatient services is associated with increased mortality risk.

Methods

Data on 1,566 self-responding men (weighted N = 1,522) from the Survey of Assets and Health Dynamics among the Oldest Old (AHEAD) were linked to Medicare claims and the National Death Index. Dual use was indirectly indicated when the self-reported number of hospital episodes in the 12 months prior to baseline was greater than that observed in the Medicare claims. The independent association of dual use with mortality was estimated using proportional hazards regression.

Results

96 (11%) of the veterans were classified as dual users. 766 men (50.3%) had died by December 31, 2002, including 64.9% of the dual users and 49.3% of all others, for an attributable mortality risk of 15.6% (p < .003). Adjusting for demographics, socioeconomics, comorbidity, hospitalization status, and selection bias at baseline, as well as subsequent hospitalization for ambulatory care sensitive conditions, the independent effect of dual use was a 56.1% increased relative risk of mortality (AHR = 1.561; p = .009).

Conclusion

An indirect measure of veterans' dual use of the VHA and Medicare systems, based on inpatient services, was associated with an increased risk of death. Further examination of dual use, especially in the outpatient setting, is needed, because dual inpatient and dual outpatient use may be different phenomena.
Our Forests Haven't Been This Wild in Forever
Authors: Walser Theresia
Published: October 2006

Translated by Claudia Wilsch Case
Syntheses of Biliverdin Derivatives Sterically Locked at the CD-Ring Components
Authors: Hammam Mostafa A S , Nakamura Hiroshi , Hirata Yukari , Khawn Htoi , Murata Yasue , Kinoshita Hideki , Inomata Katsuhiko
Published: October 2006

Total syntheses of biliverdin derivatives with a Z-syn, Z-anti, or E-syn CD-ring components were accomplished via new and efficient methods for the construction of sterically locked CD-ring components towards the elucidation of the stereochemistry of the chromophore in phytochromes.
Methyltrioxorhenium and Sodium Bromide-Catalyzed Oxidation of Alcohols to Carbonyl Compounds with H2O2 Using 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate Ionic Liquid as a Novel Recyclable Green Solvent
Authors: Jain Suman L , Sharma Vishal B , Sain Bir
Published: October 2006

A variety of primary and secondary alcohols have been oxidized to the corresponding aldehydes and ketones in excellent yields with aqueous 30% hydrogen peroxide by using methyltrioxorhenium and sodium bromide as a catalyst system and the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([bmim]BF4) as a recyclable green solvent.
Synthesis, Structures, and Two-Photon Absorption Properties of Two New Heterocycle-Based Organic Chromophores
Authors: Yan Yun-Xing , Fan Hai-Hua , Lam Chi-Keung , Huang Hong , Wang Jing , Hu Sheng , Wang He-Zhou , Chen Xiao-Ming
Published: October 2006

Two new heterocycle-based two-photon absorption chromophores, 4-[4-(4,5-diphenyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)styryl]pyridine (2) and (E)-4-{[2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)vinyl]styryl}-N-methylpyridinium iodide (4), have been synthesized and characterized. The two molecules possess A–π–A′ structures. A π-deficient heteroaromatic ring (benzimidazole, 4,5-diphenyl-1H-imidazole) is used as an acceptor (A), and a pyridine ring is used as another acceptor (A′). One-photon-excited fluorescence, one-photon-fluorescence quantum yields, two-photon-excited fluorescence, and two-photon absorption cross-sections were investigated. Pumped with 740 and 800 nm laser excitation, compounds 2 and 4 had two-photon absorption cross-sections (41 and 38 GM) and two-photon-excited fluorescence (511 and 601 nm) in DMF, respectively. The crystal structure of compound 4 was determined by using X-ray single-crystal diffraction analysis.
A Data Disclosure Policy for Count Data Based on the COM-Poisson Distribution
Authors: Kadane Joseph B. , Krishnan Ramayya , Shmueli Galit
Published: October 2006

Count data arise in various organizational settings. When the release of such data is sensitive, organizations need information-disclosure policies that protect data confidentiality while still providing data access. In contrast to extant disclosure policies, we describe a new policy for count tables that is based on disclosing only the sufficient statistics of a flexible discrete distribution. This distribution, the COM-Poisson, well approximates Poisson counts but also under- and over-dispersed counts. The sufficient statistics mask the exact cell counts and often also the table size. Under the scenario of a data holding agency and a data snooper, we show that this policy has low disclosure risk with no loss of data utility: Usually, many count tables correspond to the disclosed sufficient statistics. Furthermore, these count tables are equally likely to be the undisclosed table. Finding these solutions requires solving a system of linear equations, which are underdetermined for tables with more than three cells, and can be computationally prohibitive for even small tables. We also consider cell-specific interval bounds, a commonly used disclosure limitation policy, and compare them to our policy. We describe several types of snooper knowledge, their integration with the disclosed statistics, and implications. Applying this policy to three real data sets, we illustrate the low associated disclosure risk.
Exact Solutions to Task Allocation Problems
Authors: Ernst Andreas , Jiang Houyuan , Krishnamoorthy Mohan
Published: October 2006

The task allocation problem (TAP) is one where a number of tasks or modules need to be assigned to a set of processors or machines at minimum overall cost. The overall cost includes the communication cost between tasks that are assigned to different processors and other costs such as the assignment cost and the fixed cost of using processors. Processors may have limited or unlimited capacities to perform tasks. Task allocation has been applied to the design of distributed computing systems and also in auto-manufacturing contexts. We present several integer programs and a column generation formulation for the uncapacitated and the capacitated TAP. Computational experiments are carried out to demonstrate computational capabilities of integer programming and the column generation formulations for the uncapacitated TAP (UTAP). Excellent results are obtained for the column generation formulation. We also report some computational experience for the capacitated TAP (CTAP).
Topography op the acoustic system in cochlea and medial geniculate bodies
Authors: Culler E. A.
Published: October 2006

Our immediate program at the Animal Hearing Laboratory, University of Illinois, consists in mapping the resonant foci of the cochlea, the acoustic pathways of the medial geniculate bodies and the sensory termini of the auditory cortex.
Animal experiments on the mechanism of the acoustic irritation in the cochlea
Authors: Kobrak Heinrich G.
Published: October 2006

Experiments† have been performed which aim to throw light upon the mechanism by which the nerve endings in Corti's organ are stimulated. The physiological stimulus of the cochlea consists in dynamic air pressure changes which are transformed into vibrations of the intralabyrinthine fluid. Since static pressure changes are easier to analyze, they were studied first. The displacement of the intralabyrinthine fluid due to static pressure changes in the outer acoustic canal and in the middle ear cavity was measured by the following method:

A tube was inserted into the outer acoustic meatus of a rabbit and made airtight. A second tube was fixed into the middle ear, and this opening was also firmly closed. Both tubes were connected with a syringe in which changes in pressure could be produced. A second connection was made with a manometer, by means of which the pressures were measured. The inner ear of the animal was opened and a tiny glass capillary was inserted. By an optical system the meniscus was visualized on a screen; movements of the meniscus due to changes in pressure in either the middle or the outer ear could be observed fairly accurately (see Fig. 1).
The origin of cochlear potentials
Authors: Eyster J. A. E. , Bast T. H. , Krasno M. R.
Published: October 2006

The potentials that can be recorded from the cochlea or contiguous structures when sound impinges on the ear have been shown to arise from the cochlea and to be distinct from the action potentials present in the auditory nerve and tract.1,2. The particular structures within the cochlea which are concerned in their production and the manner in which they are produced is still undetermined. The small or absent response from cats and guinea pigs with ear infections or with congenital deficiencies in the internal ear has led to the view that the potentials are dependent on the organs of Cortl.3,4 The extensive pathology present in the internal ear of these animals, however, would appear to make it difficult or impossible to ascribe the deficiency to any particular feature of the abnormality. It has, moreover, been found that, in guinea pigs at least, structural integrity of the organs of Corti is not necessarily related to cochlear response.5 Further evidence for this will be given in the present communication.
Experiences with type iv tympanomastoidectomy
Authors: Gotay‐Rodriguez Victor M. , Schuknecht Harold F.
Published: October 2006

Type IV tympanoplasty was performed on 72 patients having advanced suppurative disease of the middle ear and mastoid with total loss of the middle ear sound transmission system. The principal features of the method consist of a postauricular wide‐field mastoideetomy, canalplasty, meato‐plasty, Type IV tympanoplasty with cutaneous exteriorization of the footplate and mastoid obliteration. The method achieved a postoperative bone‐air gap of 30 db or less in 59 percent of cases with a 15 percent incidence of recrudescence requiring some further surgery
Organization of the facial nerve nucleus in the cat
Authors: Radpour Shokri
Published: October 2006

The location of efferent neurons in the brain stem of newborn kittens supplying the facial muscles was studied by means of horseradish perox‐idase (HRP) used as a tracer of retrograde protein transport. Three to 15 microliters containing 0.3 to 1.5 mg of HRP was injected into the orbicu‐laris oris and orbicularis oculi muscles of six kittens and in the seventh kitten, the ventral ramus of the facial nerve was transected and HRP was instilled on the cut end of the nerve.

After a survival time of 24 hours, the animals were anesthetized, perfused by intracardic perfusion technique, and then they were fixed and the brain stems sectioned. Stains for peroxidase demonstrated the labelled neurons in the lateral division of facial nuclei in the ipsilateral side. The orbicularis oculi muscles were represented in the rostral pole of the lateral division of the facial nucleus dorsally while the orbicularis oris muscles were represented in the caudal pole of the lateral division of the facial nucleus ventrally.

No labelled neurons were found in the nuclei of the Vth or any other brain stem nuclei.

According to my knowledge, this method of localizing the neurons supplying the facial muscles has not been reported previously
Squamous cell carcinoma of the pyriform sinus
Authors: El Badawi S. A. , Fletcher G. H. , Oswald M. J. , Goepfert H. , Herson J.
Published: October 2006

This is a review of 418 patients with cancer of the pyriform sinus who had complete treatment at University of Texas M. D. Anderson Hospital, treated over a 28‐year time span. Treatment modalities used included radiation therapy, surgery, and planned combined treatment, primarily in the form of surgery and postoperative radiation therapy. Superficial lesions, with no impairment of laryngeal motility, are suitable for irradiation therapy planned for cure. (The policies of treatment have changed throughout the years). Analysis is made comparing the results of the larger groups of patients treated by surgery only, or surgery followed by postoperative radiation therapy. There is a significant lower incidence of failure above the clavicle in the combined treatment group, and a better 5‐year survival. Rate of recurrences and the specific sites of failure above the clavicles are discussed, as well as the means of preventing such. The causes of death between 2 and 5 years are presented.
Lymphoma and the parotid gland
Authors: Nichols Richard D. , Rebuck John W. , Sullivan John C.
Published: October 2006

The rich parotid lymphatic network makes necessary the inclusion of benign and malignant lymphoid disease in the differential diagnosis of parotid swelling. This area is affected directly by lymphoma in many clinical situations and has an indirect relationship with lymphoma through Sjögren's syndrome. These associations can produce uncertainty about the etiology and significance of parotid masses. Patients with Sjögren's have a spectrum of lymphoproliferative disorders from benign lymphoepithelial disease (BLD) to lymphoma and a significantly greater incidence of the latter than the general population. Nine patients with lymphoma and also benign and malignant lymphoid disease in the parotid illustrate various diagnostic considerations. These include that both benign and malignant parotid lymphoid pathology are seen with systemic lymphoma, that lymphoma can co‐exist with BLD May be misdiagnosed as BLD, and can develop in the same gland after appearance of BLD.
Ludwig's angina: An update
Authors: Clifton Patterson H. , Strome Marshall , Kelly James H.
Published: October 2006

Despite a reduction in preantibiotic mortality rates that exceeded 50%, Ludwig's angina remains a potentially lethal entity primarily because of rapidly progressive airway obstruction. Since the reports of several large series in the 1940's, there have been but sporadic case reports because of widespread use of antibiotics in orodental infection, improved dental care, as well as adherence to strict diagnostic criteria. Since this entity is now uncommon, unnecessary delay in diagnosis and management may occur and may result in serious complications.

This presentation will consist of an historical review, discussion of pathogenesis followed by clinical presentation, bacteriology and treatment, as well as a detailed analysis of our most recent 20 cases.

There were no complications and no deaths. The infection resolved with medical therapy in 11 patients, while 9 patients required surgical procedures. Penicillin, clindamycin or chloramphenicol were started initially in all cases. Four of these 9 patients developed a localized abscess, while on antibiotics, which required drainage. Tracheotomy or intubation was necessary in 7 patients.

Early and aggressive use of appropriate antibiotics and protection of the airway are the mainstays of a successful treatment regimen. Judicious surgical intervention is indicated in those patients who develop localized abscesses while on antibiotics or are unresponsive to medical management.
Intracochlear microprobe analysis
Authors: Bone Robert C. , Ryan Allen F.
Published: October 2006

Energy dispersive x‐ray analysis (EDXA) or “microprobe analysis” provides cochlear physiologists with a means of accurately assessing relative ionic concentrations in selected portions of the auditory mechanism. Rapid freezing followed by lyophilization allows the recovery of fluid samples in crystalline form not only from perilymphatic and endolymphatic spaces, but also from much smaller subregions of the cochlea. Because samples are examined in a solid state, there is no risk of diffusion into surrounding or juxtaposed fluids. Samples of cochlear tissues may also be evaluated without the danger of intercellular ionic diffusion.

During direct visualization by scanning electron microscopy, determination of the biochemical makeup of the material being examined can be made simultaneously, assuring the source of the data collected. Other potential advantages and disadvantages of EDXA are reviewed. Initial findings as they relate to endolymph, perilymph, stria vascularis, and the undersurface of the tectorial membrane are presented.
Experimental skin incision made with the carbon dioxide laser
Authors: Norris C. W. , Mullarky M. B.
Published: October 2006

A comparison of incisions made with a surgical scalpel and a continuous carbon dioxide laser was done. The hog was the subject animal because of its similarity to human skin. The short‐term stage of the experiment showed that the laser incisions were far better in terms of tissue repair. However, after several days, the incisions made by the scalpel exhibited better tissue reconstruction. But around the 30th day, both systems displayed similar results. This information may aid a surgeon in making a decision on whether a laser may be used safely in an operation.
Computed tomography: How accurate a predictor for cochlear implantation?
Authors: Wiet Richard J. , Pyle G. Mark , Conner Cathleen A. O. , Russell Eric , Shheramm Divid R.
Published: October 2006

Cochlear implantation is an accepted medical treatment for profound bilateral postlinguistically acquired hearing loss. Because cochlear implants are still in the process of development, a detailed evaluation of the results of implantation is essential. However, the capability of predetermining the auditory benefit of a cochlear implant is limited and depends upon a number of factors. This report focuses upon the ability of computed tomography (CT) to predict surgical success and audiological results of multichannel cochlear implantation. It also addresses how the disease state might affect the functional benefit of the implant.

After undergoing routine clinical and audiological evaluations, 28 cochlear implant candidates underwent CT scans in order to evaluate cochlear patency prior to surgery. Subsequently, 24 patients were implanted with either a single‐ or 22‐channel device. Surgical findings were noted and postoperative audiological assessments of sound detection and speech discrimination were made.

The CT risk factors that diminish the likelihood of a successful cochlear implant result are discussed based upon a retrospective comparison of preoperative CT results, surgical findings, and postsurgical audiological evaluations of the 14 patients who received a 22‐channel implant. Analysis of the predictive capability of CT will allow clinicians to use that procedure more effectively in the presurgical assessment of cochlear implant candidates.
Wide surgical exposure for singular neurectomy in the treatment of benign positional vertigo
Authors: Silverstenin Herbet , White David W.
Published: October 2006

Since 1972, singular neurectomy has been performed on 58 patients who had classical benign positional vertigo. The procedure is done under general anesthesia; a wide post‐auricular exposure is made and the external auditory canal is maximally enlarged until the vertical portion of the facial nerve is identified. This gives an excellent view of the round window niche. Our results indicate vertigo was completely cured in 80% of the cases and improved in 17%. There has been no incidence of total hearing loss in the last 49 cases and only 3 of 49 patients (6%) had sensorineural loss. Although singular neurectomy can be mastered, it will remain a procedure done by few surgeons. The wide exposure technique is safer for preservation of cochlear function and the posterior ampullary nerve is easier to find than using the transmeatal approach as described by Gacek.
Supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy: A partial laryngeal procedure for selected supraglottic and transglottic carcinomas
Authors: Laccourreye Henri , Laccourreye Ollivier , Weinstein Gregory , Menard Madeleine , Brasnu Daniel
Published: October 2006

The partial horizontal supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy consists of resection of the whole thyroid cartilage and paraglottic space, as well as the epiglottis and the whole preepiglottic space. The cricoid cartilage, the hyoid bone, and at least one arytenoid cartilage are spared. Sixty‐eight patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottis who underwent this procedure during the period from 1974 through 1986 are presented. Conventional horizontal supraglottic laryngectomy was contraindicated in all cases. All but three patients (95.4%) recovered physiologic deglutition, and none required a permanent tra‐cheostomy. The 3‐year actuarial survival rate was 71.4%. No local recurrences were encountered. The indications for the procedure are carcinomas of the supraglottis that 1. involve the glottis and anterior commissure, 2. invade the ventricle, 3. present with a marked limitation of true vocal cord mobility (transglottic lesions), and 4. invade the thyroid cartilage. The procedure is presented as a useful alternative to radiation therapy, horizontal supraglottic laryngectomy, and total laryngectomy in select cases of supraglottic carcinoma.
The use of gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging to determine lesion site in traumatic facial paralysis
Authors: Haberkamp Thomas J. , Harvey Steven A. , Daniels David L.
Published: October 2006

Gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging has been used to evaluate 20 patients with surgically confirmed facial nerve lesions. When the nerve could be seen, gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging accurately revealed the lesion site as well as the known extent, which in some cases was not predicted by topognostic testing. This technique appears to provide accurate lesion‐site testing and may have importance in surgical planning. Currently used topognostic tests of facial nerve function are frequently inaccurate and can only determine the most proximal lesion site when there are multiple or extensive lesions.

The focal nerve enhancement seen in nerve injury, globally increased signal intensity within the temporal bone after trauma, and increased signal intensity within the dura after surgery can occasionally mask nerve lesions and may be confused with tumors.
A palmar dermatosis linked to occult carcinoma of the upper thorax, head and neck: Bazex's syndrome and tripe palm
Authors: Lawrence Naomi , Rietschel Robert L. , Ii R. Brent Butcher
Published: October 2006

An unusual, persistent, corregated‐to‐honeycombed thickening of the palms accompanied by tenderness around the fingernails was found to be a cutaneous marker for internal malignancy. This combination of signs and symptoms has been reported under two clinical entities: Bazex's syndrome and tripe palm. This paraneoplastic syndrome is of interest to head and neck surgeons due to the location of the primary tumor, the site of metastatic disease, and the ability to cure the cutaneous disease by surgical removal of the primary tumor. In our patient, a squamous cell carcinoma of the lung not detectable on chest x‐ray presented as a cervical mass accompanied by cutaneous changes on the palms and fingernails. Recognition of the relationship of the dermatologic changes to malignancy of a specific body region eventually led to the detection of the primary tumor. The characteristics of these paraneoplastic syndromes were reviewed in this report.
Wnt but Not BMP Signaling Is Involved in the Inhibitory Action of Sclerostin on BMP-Stimulated Bone Formation
Authors: van Bezooijen Rutger L , Svensson J Peter , Eefting Daniël , Visser Annemieke , van der Horst Geertje , Karperien Marcel , Quax Paul HA , Vrieling Harry , Papapoulos Socrates E , ten Dijke Peter , Löwik Clemens WGM
Published: October 2006

Sclerostin is an osteocyte-derived negative regulator of bone formation. It inhibits BMP-stimulated bone formation both in vitro and in vivo but has no direct effect on BMP signaling. Instead, sclerostin inhibits Wnt signaling that is required for BMP-stimulated osteoblastic differentiation.

Introduction: Sclerostin is a member of the Dan family of glycoproteins of which many members have been reported to antagonize BMP activity. Sclerostin has been shown to inhibit BMP-stimulated bone formation, but its mechanism of action seems to be different from classical BMP antagonists. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which sclerostin inhibits BMP-stimulated bone formation.

Materials and Methods: DNA electroporation of calf muscle of mice using expression plasmids for BMP and sclerostin was used to study the effect of sclerostin on BMP-induced bone formation in vivo. Transcriptional profiling using microarrays of osteoblastic cells treated with BMP in the absence or presence of sclerostin was used to find specific growth factor signaling pathways affected by sclerostin. The affected pathways were further studied using growth factor–specific reporter constructs.

Results: BMP-induced ectopic bone formation in calf muscle of mice was prevented by co-expression of sclerostin in vivo. Transcriptional profiling analysis of osteoblastic cultures indicated that sclerostin specifically affects BMP and Wnt signaling out of many other growth signaling pathways. Sclerostin, however, did not inhibit stimulation of direct BMP target genes. Furthermore, we did not obtain any evidence for sclerostin acting as a direct BMP antagonist using a BMP-specific reporter construct. In contrast, sclerostin shared many characteristics with the Wnt antagonist dickkopf-1 in antagonizing BMP-stimulated bone formation and BMP- and Wnt-induced Wnt reporter construct activation.

Conclusions: Sclerostin inhibits BMP-stimulated bone formation but does not affect BMP signaling. Instead, it antagonizes Wnt signaling in osteoblastic cells. High bone mass in sclerosteosis and van Buchem disease may, therefore, result from increased Wnt signaling.
Biovariability of plasma adiponectin
Authors: Shand Brett , Elder Peter , Scott Russell , Frampton Christopher , Willis Jinny
Published: October 2006

Clin Chem Lab Med 2006;44:1264–8.
Structure determination without Fourier inversion. Part II: The use of intensity ratios and inequalities
Authors: Kirfel Armin , Fischer Karl F. , Zimmermann Helmuth W.
Published: October 2006

Using for a one-dimensional centrosymmetric structure of m equal point scatterers an m-dimensional coordinate parameter space P
m and the (n – 1) independent ratios q(h, k) = [I′(h)/I′(k)]1/2 = g′(h)/g′(k) of n > 1 structure amplitudes observed on relative scale it is shown that the determination of the structure or possibly homometric structures is equivalent to finding the common intersection(s) of (n – 1) ≥ m independent isosurfaces Q[h, k; q] of dimension (m – 1).A fast and efficient reduction of the parameter space to the fraction(s) of
P
m
that contain(s) the solution(s) can already be achieved on the basis of the qualitative inequalities between the observations. Therefore, emphasis is put on showing that each q(h, k) < 1, i.e.
g′(h) < g′(k) (or vice versa) rules out all the regions in P
m that contain point scatterer arrangements incompatible with q(h, k). For small structures, solution strategies are discussed and an estimate is given on the number of data necessary for solving even ‘tough’ problems.
Exposure to Medical Test Irradiation and Acute Leukemia Among Children With Down Syndrome: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Linabery Amy M. , Olshan Andrew F. , Gamis Alan S. , Smith Franklin O. , Heerema Nyla A. , Blair Cindy K. , Ross Julie A.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE. The etiology of acute childhood leukemia is not well understood, particularly among children with Down syndrome, in whom a 10- to 20-fold increased risk of leukemogenesis has been reported compared with children without Down syndrome. We explored the association between medical test irradiation, a postulated leukemogenic agent, and acute leukemia among children with Down syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. Children with Down syndrome (controls) were frequency matched on age to children with Down syndrome and leukemia (cases) diagnosed at ages 0 to 19 years during the period 1997–2002 at participating Children's Oncology Group institutions in North America. Telephone interviews were completed with mothers of 158 cases (n = 97 acute lymphoblastic leukemia and n = 61 acute myeloid leukemia) and 173 controls. Paternal interviews were completed with 275 fathers and 40 mothers serving as surrogates. Three irradiation exposure periods were examined: preconception, in utero, and postnatal. Multivariate unconditional logistic regression models were constructed to evaluate the associations of interest, resulting in odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS. There was little evidence that maternal or paternal preconception irradiation exposure, intrauterine exposure, or postnatal exposure contributes to leukemogenesis in children with Down syndrome. Overall, no evidence for an effect of any periconceptional exposure was observed. Similar results were observed among acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia cases analyzed separately.

CONCLUSIONS. This was the first study, to our knowledge, to examine such an association among this unique patient population. The results do not provide evidence of a positive association between ionizing radiation exposure and acute leukemia among children with Down syndrome. The absence of an association should be encouraging for concerned parents of children with Down syndrome who undergo a series of diagnostic radiographs in the course of their standard care.
Cloning and differential expression of estrogen receptor and aromatase genes in the self-fertilizing hermaphrodite and male mangrove rivulus, Kryptolebias marmoratus
Authors: Orlando Edward F , Katsu Yoshinao , Miyagawa Shinichi , Iguchi Taisen
Published: October 2006

The mechanisms underlying sex determination and differentiation in fishes are labile in response to environmental parameters. Sex-specific phenotypes are largely regulated by sex steroids, and the inhibition or the stimulation of aromatase can reverse sex as well as alter secondary sexual characteristics in fishes. Among vertebrates, the mangrove rivulus is the only known self-fertilizing hermaphrodite. Throughout most of its range, rivulus appear to exist as clonally reproducing hermaphrodites. However, outcrossing has been documented in Belize, where up to 25% of rivulus collected are males. The direct development of (primary) males occurs when embryos are incubated at 18 °C and hermaphrodites develop into secondary males when held at 28 °C. Given the importance of sex steroids, their receptors, and aromatase in sex determination and differentiation of fishes, we cloned, sequenced, and quantified the expression of estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ) and ovarian (AroA) and brain (AroB) aromatase genes. Hermaphrodites had increased ERα, ERβ, AroA, and AroB gene expression in the liver, gonad, gonad, and brain respectively, compared to males. These data are consistent with the gene expression data reported for other species and are reflective of the presence of ovarian tissue in the hermaphrodites. Interestingly, we show the elevated expression of brain aromatase in the hermaphrodite brain. The role of the dimorphic expression of brain aromatase in the regulation of sex-specific characteristics is intriguing and requires further research. Because of the uniqueness of its reproductive biology, rivulus is an excellent model for elucidating the mechanisms regulating vertebrate sex determination and sexual differentiation.