bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An algorithm for the investigation and management of patients with suspected deep venous thrombosis at a district general hospital
Authors: Walsh K , Kelaher N , Long K , Cervi P
Published: January 2003

The aim was to show that clinical assessment and serial Dopplers could be used to exclude deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and also that clinical assessment in combination with D-dimers could be used to exclude DVT. This was a prospective trial. Patients underwent clinical assessment, colour flow Doppler, and D-dimer measurement. Patients with an equivocal first Doppler and patients with a moderate/high pre-test clinical score had a repeat Doppler. Follow up information was obtained to see if further thromboembolism developed. Outcome measures included the reliability of the clinical assessment, Doppler, and D-dimer in excluding DVT. One hundred and ninety four patients were enrolled. The negative predictive value of a low medical pre-test score in excluding DVT was 92%. Eighty eight patients underwent D-dimer measurement. The negative predictive value of a D-dimer <400 units was 96%. The negative predictive value of a low clinical pre-test score and D-dimer <400 units was 100%. The negative predictive value of a low clinical pre-test score and D-dimer <800 units was 97%. The negative predictive value of the combination of a low clinical pre-test score and D-dimer <400 units was 100%. Twenty three per cent of patients had a low clinical pre-test score and D-dimer <400 units. Thus, a DVT could be excluded in 23% of referred patients. This information could be used to reduce Doppler requests by 23%. No patient in whom clinical assessment and serial Dopplers had excluded a DVT suffered further thromboembolism on follow up. This study has thus shown that a low medical pre-test score and negative Doppler reliably exclude DVT; a low pre-test score and negative D-dimer would reliably exclude DVT.
Dorsalis pedis arterial pulse: palpation using a bony landmark
Authors: Mowlavi A , Whiteman J , Wilhelmi B J , Neumeister M W , McLafferty R
Published: January 2003

Introduction

The unreliability of the pulse examination of the foot has primarily been due to variability of technique between examiners. Whereas the groove between the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon more readily defines the location of the posterior tibial pulse, the location of the dorsalis pedis pulse remains vague. In this paper a novel method of locating the dorsalis pedis pulse by physical examination is described.

Methods

Forty one consecutive patients admitted to a general surgery service of a tertiary medical centre within a two month period were examined. Using the dorsal most prominence of the navicular bone as a landmark, the distance to the dorsalis pedis pulse in bilateral lower extremities was measured by palpation and compared to Doppler ultrasound. Measurements were confirmed by two separate examiners blinded to each others’ results.

Results

The dorsalis pedis artery was palpable in 78% of extremities and present by Doppler ultrasound in 95%. The location of the left dorsalis pedis artery was a mean (SD) 9.8 (1.4) mm by palpation and 11.1 (2.1) mm by Doppler ultrasound from the dorsal most prominence of the navicular bone. The right dorsalis pedis artery was 10.4 (3.4) mm by palpation and 11.5 (0.7) mm from the dorsal most prominence of the navicular bone. No significant differences in location of the dorsalis pedis artery were observed bilaterally between Doppler ultrasound and palpation; No significant differences were observed comparing contralateral dorsalis pedis arteries nor any differences between the examiners’ results.

Conclusion

The dorsal most prominence of the navicular bone provides a bony landmark to readily locate the dorsalis pedis artery. Reliability of the examination may be increased as to the patency of the dorsalis pedis artery by using this dependable anatomic landmark.
Guidelines, compliance, and effectiveness: a 12 months’ audit in an acute district general healthcare trust on the two week rule for suspected colorectal cancer
Authors: Debnath D , Dielehner N , Gunning K A
Published: January 2003

Objectives

The Department of Health had recently introduced guidelines so that all suspected colorectal cancer patients could be seen by a specialist within two weeks of referral by their general practitioners. The usefulness and practicality of such a decision had been questioned. The aims of this study were to measure the compliance to the guidelines and evaluate the effectiveness of such referrals.

Methods

All patients who were referred to the rapid access colorectal clinic between August 2000 and July 2001 were included.

Settings

Darlington Memorial Hospital and Bishop Auckland General Hospital, both under South Durham Health Care Trust, were considered for the study.

Measures

Date of referral, referring practitioner, time of appointment, reasons for referral, and diagnosis.

Results

A total of 239 referrals were made; 96.2% of patients were given appointments within two weeks. Rectal bleed was the commonest (32%) cause for referral. Diverticular disease was the most frequent (29%) condition diagnosed. Altogether 97.4% of referrals were incomplete and 37.6% did not comply with the guidelines. Twenty one colorectal cancers (8.9%) were diagnosed. The early cancer detection rate was 4.6%.

Conclusions

This audit showed that compliance to the guidelines was associated with a higher cancer detection rate. The majority of patients received appointments within two weeks. Contrary to some speculations, the number of referrals was not limitless. However a high number of referrals failed to adhere to the guidelines. The cancer (particularly early cancer) detection rate was disappointingly low. This does not reflect an efficient system of referral and potential benefits to patients remain questionable.
Assessment of carers' psychological needs
Authors: Oyebode Jan
Published: January 2003

Carers play a vital role in supporting family members who need help. Facts and figures on caregiving are set in the context of current UK policy. Research into the impact of caregiving shows that one-third to one-half of carers suffer significant psychological distress. Factors associated with carer stress are reviewed, including those related to the care-recipient, the caregiver, their relationship, and wider family and social support. The most well-known frameworks for understanding caregiving stress, including stress-process models, are introduced. Measures that may help in assessing psychological needs of carers are reviewed, emphasising the distinction between objective and subjective stress. The range of possible interventions leads to promising evidence of the effectiveness of individual psychosocial interventions, but further research is needed.
Literary and biographical perspectives on substance use
Authors: Day Ed , Smith Iain
Published: January 2003

This article attempts to give a flavour of the influence that psychoactive substances have had on many authors and the literary process. It explores the idea of the narrative as it is applied to addictive disorders and gives a range of examples of writing about different substances that might enhance the reader's knowledge of current drug culture. The portrayal in literature of doctors with addictions is presented as a warning against the development of such problems in psychiatrists. The authors hope to have demonstrated that literature can be a valuable tool in understanding the experience of drug and alcohol use and addiction.
Epidemiology, public health and the problem of personality disorder
Authors: Coid Jeremy
Published: January 2003

Background

The public health problem-solving paradigm is a comprehensive method not previously applied to preventive interventions for personality disorder.

Aims

To present an overview for clinical psychiatrists.

Method

Review of epidemiological research into DSM–IV Axis II disorders and application to the paradigm.

Results

Personality disorder affects a substantial proportion of the population. Burdens on health care, social and criminal justice agencies have yet to be accurately quantified. Debates continue over case definition, but there is increasing information on prevalence using ‘broad’ definitions and aetiology. A conceptual framework, based on development, suggests preventive interventions should be targeted in childhood. The public health approach also requires monitoring of risk factors operating at the population level.

Conclusions

Services in England and Wales for persons with personality disorder are currently inadequate. The problem-solving paradigm suggests new preventive interventions. Psychiatrists should renegotiate their relationship with policy-makers and reconsider their preventive role.
Combining depot antipsychotic medications with novel antipsychotics in forensic patients: a practice in search of a principle
Authors: Bains Jatinder J. S. , Nielssen Olav B.
Published: January 2003

OBJECTIVE

We observed a pattern of combining depot antipsychotic medication with the newer ‘atypical’ antipsychotics in forensic patients. We aimed to determine the prevalence and rationale for such ‘combination therapy’.

METHOD

The medical records of forensic patients in 3 forensic hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, were reviewed and the responsible psychiatrists asked to explain the rationale for treatment of those patients on combination therapy.

Results

Twenty-two per cent of the forensic patient population were receiving combination therapy. The reasons given for combination therapy were the presence of treatment-resistant illness, to ensure adherence to at least part of the treatment and to assist transfer to lower security units.

CONCLUSIONS

Such a high prevalence of a practice that is discouraged and without theoretical justification is a cause for concern. It appeared to reflect the practical difficulties of managing forensic patients.
Descriptive study of the effects of altering formulation of prescribed methadone from injectable to oral
Authors: Myton Tracey , Fletcher Keron
Published: January 2003

Aims and Method

To describe an enforced but gentle transition from prescribed intravenous methadone to oral methadone in 14 opiate-dependent patients. We examined their case notes looking for ease of transition, evidence of illicit drug use before and during the 6 months following transition and progress 3 years later.

Results

Eight patients immediately stopped injecting, the remainder used intravenous heroin in addition to prescribed oral methadone for some months. There were no serious adverse events. Three years later, four patients had ceased opiate use altogether and six were maintained on oral methadone (five of these without illicit use). Two patients were prescribed oral methadone by their general practitioner and one was no longer in treatment.

Clinical Implications

We show that it is possible to alter the formulation of prescribed methadone without deterioration in clinical stability or losing patients from treatment. This is an important conclusion as it is presumed that one of the aims of treatment with intravenous methadone is to move patients away from injectable to oral use. Offering patients a transition period of 6 months and a choice of the process of transition may be helpful.
Kinetics of glycolysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) waste powder at moderate pressure and temperature
Authors: Mishra S. , Goje A. S.
Published: January 2003

The reaction of poly(ethylene terephthalate) waste (PETW) powder with ethylene glycol (EG) was carried out in a batch reactor at 2 atm of pressure and a 220°C temperature. The particle size range of 50–512.5 μm and the reaction time of 40–180 min that are required for glycolysis of PETW were optimized. To avoid the carbonization and oxidation of reactants and reaction products and to reduce corrosion, the reaction was undertaken below 250°C using a lower reaction time. To increase the yield of dimethyl terephthalate and EG, an external catalyst was introduced during the reaction. The degree of depolymerization of PETW was proportional to the reaction time. The reaction rate was found to depend on the concentrations of liquid EG and of ethylene diester groups in the polyester. A kinetic model was used for the reaction was found to be consistent with experimental data. The rate constant was inversely proportional to the reaction time, as well as the particle size, of PETW. The degree of depolymerization of PETW was inversely proportional to the particle size of PETW. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 87: 1569–1573, 2003
Synthesis of amphiphilic polyurethane nanonetwork particles and their application for the soil‐washing process
Authors: Kim Ju‐Young , Shim Sun‐Bo , Shim Jin‐Kie
Published: January 2003

Nanosized amphiphilic polyurethane (APU) particles synthesized on the basis of amphiphilic urethane acrylate nonionomers could solubilize phenanthrene within their hydrophobic interiors in the same way that surfactant micelles do in the aqueous phase. At low concentrations of APU or Triton X‐100 in the aqueous phase, APU particles exhibited a greater extraction efficiency of sorbed phenanthrene than did the Triton X‐100 aqueous pseudophase. At higher APU particle and Triton X‐100 doses in aqueous solution, the extraction efficiency of the APU aqueous solution was almost same as that of the Triton X‐100 aqueous solution, even though APU particles exhibited a lower solubilizing efficiency than Triton X‐100 micelles in the absence of aquifer soil. This was because APU particles have a relatively low degree of sorption on aquifer sand because of their chemically crosslinked structure. APU particles could be also recovered at a rate of 100% through an ultrafiltration process at a greater pore size of the separation membrane, which would make soil washing with APU particles more economical and useful in practical applications. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 87: 1666–1677, 2003
Dyadic processes of disclosure and reciprocity in bargaining with communication
Authors: McGinn Kathleen L. , Thompson Leigh , Bazerman Max H.
Published: January 2003

We offer a study revealing the mechanisms through which communication helps actual bargaining behavior outperform economic predictions. The possibility of individually strategic behavior in the presence of private information leads to game‐theoretic predictions of less than full efficiency. We present a one‐stage, simultaneous offers bargaining game in which buyers and sellers have independent, privately held valuations for the item being sold (i.e. a bilateral auction with two‐sided private information). In three communication treatments, parties are: (a) allowed face‐to‐face communication prior to submitting offers; (b) allowed written communication prior to submitting offers; or (c) allowed no‐communication prior to submitting offers. When parties are allowed pre‐play communication, we find nearly full efficiency (98%). We examine two systematically predictable aspects of dyadic interaction—disclosure and reciprocity—to explain how negotiators achieve this efficiency. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
‘There but for the grace …?’ Developing multi‐disciplinary training following a local child death inquiry
Authors: Lawson Brian , Masson Helen , Milner Judith
Published: January 2003

This article describes the process of planning and running a training course for multi‐disciplinary professionals in the wake of a local child death inquiry. The factors which influenced the content and management of the training experience are discussed, in particular the trainers' determination to encourage course participants to develop practice foresight rather than defensive reactions to what had emerged in the inquiry's findings. How the course was received by the practitioners, the work that was accomplished and the impact on the trainers of running a course in such circumstances are then highlighted. Copyright © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fatal child abuse—how preventable is it?
Authors: Creighton Susan J.
Published: January 2003

Infant and child homicide rates have remained stable over the last 20 years. They represent the most visible part of the spectrum of fatal child abuse. By contrast, infant mortality and child deaths from accidents and SIDS have all declined. The prevention strategies used to combat these deaths would appear to have been more successful than the protection strategies used against child abuse deaths. International comparisons of infant homicide rates have shown that measures of family stress, available resources and the cultural variables of low status of women and the culture of violence were all associated with increased infant homicide rates. The paper argues for a change in our culture towards children to prevent fatal child abuse. Copyright © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Culture, children's rights and child protection
Authors: Welbourne Penelope
Published: January 2003

This paper explores the ideas of culture and ethnicity in the context of child abuse in the United Kingdom as they are discussed in the literature relating to child protection. The culturally determined nature of some of the key concepts and terms used in child protection work is also discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coronary flow reserve correlates left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Teragaki Masakazu , Yanagi Shiro , Toda Iku , Sakamoto Kazuo , Hirota Kazuyoshi , Takeuchi Kazuhide , Yoshikawa Junichi
Published: January 2003

The relationship between altered coronary circulation and left ventricular (LV) function in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unclear. We used the Doppler guidewire and transthoracic echo Doppler in 24 DCM patients to investigate the relationship between coronary flow reserve (CFR) and LV systolic/diastolic function, trying to predict diastolic dysfunction and evaluate DCM severity with CFR. CFR correlated better with the deceleration time (DT) of the E‐wave and the ratio of E‐wave peak value to that of the A‐wave (E/A) than with LV ejection fraction (EF). The optimal CFR cutoff value for predicting the restrictive pattern of transmitral flow velocity (DT = 120 msec) was 2.6 (sensitivity 91%, specificity 100%). Dividing patients into two groups around the CFR = 2.6 cutoff, differences in DT and E/A between groups were more prominent than those for EF. CFR correlates better with LV diastolic than systolic function and may be useful for predicting diastolic dysfunction in DCM patients. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2003;58:43–50. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous bare Z‐stent implantation as an alternative to surgery for acute aortic dissection with visceral ischemia
Authors: Ito Naoki , Tsunoda Taro , Nakamura Masato , Iijima Raisuke , Matsuda Ken‐ichi , Suzuki Tomotake , Takagi Takuro , Hirai Hironori , Yamaguchi Tetsu
Published: January 2003

We describe a case of Stanford type B acute aortic dissection causing visceral ischemia. An aortogram showed an hourglass‐like narrowing of the true lumen at the diaphragm with a 60 mm Hg pressure gradient. Placement of a self‐expanding metallic Z‐stent under intravascular ultrasound guidance restored blood flow to the viscera. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2003;58:95–100. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eptifibatide‐induced acute profound thrombocytopenia presenting as refractory hypotension
Authors: Rezkalla Shereif H. , Hayes John J. , Curtis Brian R. , Aster Richard H.
Published: January 2003

A 61‐year‐old woman presented with acute coronary syndrome and was given heparin and eptifibatide in conjunction with coronary angioplasty. Shortly thereafter she became profoundly thrombocytopenic (platelets 2.0 × 109/L) and developed severe refractory hypotension. Heparin‐induced antibodies were not detected, but the patient developed strong eptifibatide‐dependent antibodies specific for platelets that appear to explain both the thrombocytopenia and the hypotensive episode. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2003;58:76–79. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cardiac troponin I is increased after interventional closure of atrial septal defects
Authors: Pees Christiane , Haas Nikolaus A. , von der Beek Joachim , Ewert Peter , Berger Felix , Lange Peter E.
Published: January 2003

This study was designed to assess possible myocardial injury caused by interventional closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) compared to diagnostic catheterization by measuring cardiac troponin I (cTn‐I). Forty patients were enrolled; in 33 ASDs were successfully closed, while in 7 a diagnostic balloon sizing of the defect was performed only. Total cTn‐I increased significantly from 0.1 to 1.9 μg/l at the end of the intervention and 2.23 at 4 hr and decreased to 1.35 at 15 hr. No significant increase could be detected in patients with diagnostic balloon sizing only or of CK/CK‐MB levels either. Following interventional closure of ASDs with Amplatzer septum/PFO occluders, increased cTn‐I levels for several hours indicate some transient, reversible myocardial membrane instability due to the device. Discrimination of ventricular myocardial infarction might be possible by estimating less sensitive CK and CK‐MB levels only. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2003;58:124–129. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early development of the Drosophila brain: III. The pattern of neuropile founder tracts during the larval period
Authors: Nassif Claude , Noveen Alexander , Hartenstein Volker
Published: January 2003

The Drosophila N‐CAM homolog Fasciclin II (FasII) is expressed during the embryonic period in a subset of central neurons that pioneer the neuropile of the larval brain. Toward the end of embryogenesis, FasII expression in axon tracts diminishes but resumes from the late first larval instar in an increasingly complex pattern of axon tracts that join the tracts laid down in the embryo. We present evidence that FasII is expressed in a major fraction of the long axon tracts that interconnect different domains of the larval brain. For many tracts, FasII expression remains stable throughout larval development and pupal development. Therefore, the FasII pattern of axon tracts, along with the mushroom body and optic lobe, both of which are also FasII‐positive, represents a useful set of landmarks that define different regions in the Drosophila brain throughout development. In this study, serial confocal brain sections were used to generate digital three‐dimensional models of larval axon tracts at different stages. These models form part of our effort to generate an anatomic framework of Drosophila larval brain structure required for accurate localization of gene expression and gene function in experimental studies of neural development. J. Comp. Neurol. 455:417–434, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A fluorescent extension to the Kubelka–Munk model
Authors: Shakespeare Tarja , Shakespeare John
Published: January 2003

Traditionally, single constant Kubelka–Munk‐type colorant formulation algorithms have been used for color control in the paper industry. One of the limitations of the Kubelka–Munk approaches is that they neglect fluorescence phenomena and the interdependence of absorption and scattering. In this article, an extended phenomenologic model is derived, incorporating fluorescence and interdependence of absorption and scattering. This model predicts illuminator‐independent radiance transfer factors based on dye‐on‐fiber, from which the total radiance factor responses under arbitrary illumination can be computed. Illuminator‐independent responses to changes in colorant concentration can also be modeled, allowing control of illuminator metamerism in coloring processes with fluorescent colorants. This method requires spectrofluorimetric (two‐monochromator method) measurements to characterize the coloring process. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 28, 4–14, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.
Interobserver variability and color representation systems
Authors: Ezquerro J. M. , Carreño F. , Zoido J. M.
Published: January 2003

A systematic method of analyzing the colorimetric behavior of a set of observers is proposed. The differences between each observer and a standard one are analyzed with different procedures in two color‐representation systems. It is apparent that these differences strongly depend on the color‐representation system in which they are analyzed. Results obtained in this work indicate that comparison between two observers should be carried out by applying an optimized operator. This operator minimizes the differences between the color‐representation systems associated with the observers that are compared. The proposed method should be applied when color‐matching properties of a set of observers, or when color matching obtained with different colorimetric instruments, are compared. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 28, 15–24, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.
Color change due to surface state modification
Authors: Simonot Lionel , Elias Mady
Published: January 2003

The dependence of color on the surface state of an object is calculated in the context of spectrophotometric measurements in a back‐scattering configuration. A modification of the surface roughness leads to a vertical shift of the reflectance spectrum. This translation is related, on a physical basis, to the relevant characteristic of the topography: the ratio h/l (ie, r.m.s. roughness/surface correlation length). Changes in L*a*b* colorimetric coordinates associated with this translation are computed. Finally, the color change ΔE is related to the surface state modification via the ratio h/l. Computations show that the color becomes lighter and less saturated when the surface becomes rougher. The color change is more important for dark or saturated initial objects, and also more important for a yellow surface than for a blue one. Finally, the minimum roughness modification that can induce a visible color change is determined. These results could be applied for industrial needs (quality control), or in the artistic field of conservation or restoration (to follow the color of paintings). © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 28, 45–49, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.
Tumor imprint cytology of sclerosing stromal tumor of the ovary
Authors: Mikami Mikio , Fukuchi Takeshi , Takehara Kyoko , Komiyama Shinichi , Suzuki Atsushi , Hirose Takanori
Published: January 2003

Over 90 cases of sclerosing stromal tumor of the ovary (SST) have been reported in the English‐language literature, but these authors did not mention the cytologic examination of SST. In 2 patients with SST, we were able to collect specimens for tumor imprint cytology. The number of cells in the specimens was extremely small. Two types of benign cells were observed against a clean background, comprising cells with round nuclei surrounded by abundant cytoplasm and cells with spindle‐shaped or oval nuclei that had scanty cytoplasm. Our present findings suggest that intraoperative imprint cytology was able to rule out cancer. Considering that SST most commonly occurs in young women requiring conservative treatment, imprint cytology seems to have a potential diagnostic significance. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;28:54–57. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma in cervical lymph nodes: Comparison with metastatic squamous‐cell carcinoma, and Hodgkin's and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Kollur Sharanamma M. , El Hag Imad Abdien
Published: January 2003

Our objective was to study the cytomorphological features of metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) as compared to squamous‐cell carcinoma (SCC) of nonnasopharyngeal origin, Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), and non‐Hodgkin's (NHL) lymphoma in the neck lymph nodes. The aim of this study was to find simple cytological criteria using routine stains that can help in differentiating between these entities. All fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) smears of metastatic NPC, SCC, HL, and NHL from neck nodes available in our files were included in this study. Nodal disease was the first clinical manifestation in all cases of NPC, and all the lesions were of the nonkeratinizing type. The cytomorphological features of metastatic NPC, SCC, HL, and NHL have been described. Metastatic NPC and HL had a similar reactive lymphoid background, with eosinophils, plasma cells, and sometimes epithelioid‐cell granulomas. The bizarre cells of NPC showed some resemblance to Reed‐Sternberg cells of HL. However, the latter can be distinguished from the former on the basis of bulky, pale gray, vacuolated cytoplasm and vesicular nuclei with sharply demarcated prominent macronucleoli. In NPC, the neoplastic cells form distinct aggregates contrasting with the normal lymphoid cells in the background, which was different from the monotonous dispersed population of cells in NHL. Moreover, bizarre cells, prominent nucleoli, and the presence of plasma cells, eosinophils, and granulomas were not common features of NHL. The smears of metastatic SCC revealed keratinized malignant cells in all cases, while eosinophils and plasma cells were absent in the background. Plasma cells were seen intimately related to tumor cells in all cases of NPC. In conclusion, metastatic NPC can be differentiated from metastatic SCC of nonnasopharyngeal origin, HL, and NHL on the basis of simple nuclear and cytoplasmic features of malignant cells and their background. The presence of plasma cells intermingling with tumor‐cell clusters is a good indicator of nasopharyngeal origin. On the other hand, a nasopharyngeal origin is unlikely in the presence of keratinized malignant cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;28:18–22. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Xenopusmuscle development: From primary to secondary myogenesis
Authors: Chanoine Christophe , Hardy Serge
Published: January 2003

Xenopusmyogenesis is characterized by specific features, different from those of mammalian and avian systems both at the cellular level and in gene expression patterns. During early embryogenesis, after the initial molecular signals inducing mesoderm, the myogenic determination factors XMyoD and XMyf‐5 are activated in presomitic mesoderm in response to mesoderm‐inducing factors. After these first inductions of the myogenic program, forming muscles inXenopuscan have different destinies, some of these resulting in cell death before adulthood. In particular, it is quite characteristic of this species that, during metamorphosis, the primary myotomal myofibers completely die and are progressively replaced by secondary “adult” multinucleated myofibers. This feature offers the unique opportunity to totally separate the molecular analysis of these two distinct types of myogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize our knowledge on the cellular and molecular events as well as the epigenetic regulations involved in the construction ofXenopusmuscles during development. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targeted disruption of mouse Dach1 results in postnatal lethality
Authors: Backman Mattias , Machon Ondrej , Van Den Bout Christiaan J. , Krauss Stefan
Published: January 2003

Mouse Dach1 is a nuclear factor that is expressed during development in restricted areas of the central nervous system, neural crest, and limb buds. Its Drosophila homologue dachshund plays a role in differentiation of the eye imaginal disc, in leg morphogenesis, and in controlling neural differentiation in the mushroom bodies of the insect brain. Mouse Dach1 null homozygous survive pregnancy but become cyanotic after birth and subsequently die within 24 hr. In this report, the brain of Dach1 mutants was analyzed. Examination of mRNA expression of the central neuropeptides oxytocin, vasopressin, thyrotropin‐releasing hormone, growth hormone releasing hormone, and somatostatin revealed no difference between wild‐type and mutant newborn brains. Furthermore, no significant difference in cell proliferation as well as in the distribution of neurons, glia, radial glia, and neuronal progenitors was detected in the developing forebrain. Dach1‐positive cells, which were visualized with Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein (EGFP), show similar distribution and axonal projections in the cortex and hippocampus in mutants and wild‐type controls. Neural stem cells derived from mutant and wild‐type newborn brains display similar growth kinetics when cultivated in vitro. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Automated classification of short echo time in in vivo 1H brain tumor spectra: A multicenter study
Authors: Tate A. Rosemary , Majós Carles , Moreno Angel , Howe Franklyn A. , Griffiths John R. , Arús Carles
Published: January 2003

Automated pattern recognition techniques are needed to help radiologists categorize MRS data of brain tumors according to histological type and grade. A major question is whether a computer program “trained” on spectra from one hospital will be able to classify those from another, particularly if the acquisition protocol is different. A subset of 144 histopathologically validated brain tumor spectra in the INTERPRET database, obtained from three of the collaborating centers, was grouped into meningiomas, low‐grade astrocytomas, and “aggressive tumors” (glioblastomas and metastases). Spectra from two centers formed the training set (94 spectra) while the third acted as the test set (50 spectra). Linear discriminant analysis successfully classified 48/50 in the test set; the remaining two were atypical cases. When the training and test sets were combined, 133 of the 144 spectra were correctly classified using the leave‐one‐out procedure. These spectra had been obtained using different sequences (STEAM and PRESS), different echo times (20, 30, 31, and 32 ms), different repetition times (1600 and 2000 ms), and different manufacturers' instruments (GE and Philips). Pattern recognition algorithms are less sensitive to acquisition parameters than had been expected. Magn Reson Med 49:29–36, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Feasibility of MR‐guided focused ultrasound with real‐time temperature mapping and continuous sonication for ablation of VX2 carcinoma in rabbit thigh
Authors: Palussière Jean , Salomir Rares , Le Bail Brigitte , Fawaz Rabia , Quesson Bruno , Grenier Nicolas , Moonen Chrit T.W.
Published: January 2003

The efficiency of MRI‐guided focused ultrasound (FUS) hyperthermia with continuous sonication was investigated for the treatment of VX2 carcinoma implanted in rabbit thigh muscle. Six rabbits were treated with a single session of FUS when the tumor diameter exceeded 2 cm (10–21 days after implant). The FUS treatment method was based on a spiral trajectory of the focal point that allows continuous sonication under automatic, real‐time MR guidance. The total heating time was approximately 1000 sec. Efficacy of treatment was evaluated twice a week based on clinical (weight) and MRI data. Treated animals were sacrificed 5 weeks after the heating procedure and histological analysis was performed. Tumor regression was observed in each treated animal. Complete ablation of tumor, with confirmation by histological analysis, was obtained in five of six treated cases. Tumor regrowth occurred in one animal. Thermal injury was limited to the targeted region in three cases, but ablation also reached some healthy muscle around the tumor in the other three cases. A good correlation was found between postmortem histological analysis and premortem MRI data. Efficacy of MR‐controlled hyperthermia using FUS heating with spiral trajectories was demonstrated for successful local control of intramuscular VX2 tumor. Magn Reson Med 49:89–98, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parameterized evaluation of macromolecules and lipids in proton MR spectroscopy of brain diseases
Authors: Seeger Uwe , Klose Uwe , Mader Irina , Grodd Wolfgang , Nägele Thomas
Published: January 2003

Short echo time (TE) proton MR spectra of the brain include signals of several metabolites as well as macromolecules. In various pathologies, such as brain tumors and multiple sclerosis (MS), the presence of mobile lipids or pathologically altered macromolecules may provide useful additional diagnostic information. A reliable quantitation of these resonances, however, is often not possible due to the lack of adequate prior knowledge. Furthermore, even if advanced fitting procedures are used, a reliable evaluation of metabolites in the presence of pathological lipids or macromolecules often fails if the latter are omitted in the spectral evaluation. In this study, a method is presented for the simultaneous evaluation of all visible components, including metabolites, lipids, and macromolecules, by the use of the fitting procedure LCModel. A standard basis set of brain metabolites was extended by inclusion of parameterized components for macromolecules and lipids that were derived from metabolite‐nulled in vivo spectra of normal brain and high‐grade gliomas, respectively. The improved spectral quantitation is demonstrated in glial brain tumors and MS lesions as well as in normal brain. It is pointed out that both macromolecules and lipids must be included to provide a proper spectral evaluation. Magn Reson Med 49:19–28, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sonography in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: A critical review of the literature
Authors: Beekman Roy , Visser Leo H.
Published: January 2003

Advances in ultrasound technology have made it possible to gain higher spatial resolution and even depict nerves with excellent visual quality. In this article, the literature concerning sonography in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is critically reviewed. We searched Medline for studies on sonography in the diagnosis of CTS and used the reference lists of the articles found. A total of seven studies on the diagnostic capabilities of sonography was found. There were considerable differences in study design. A reliable diagnosis of CTS could be made sonographically, mainly based on an increase in cross‐sectional area of the median nerve at the level of the pisiform or hamate bone. However, most studies could not compare the diagnostic capabilities of sonography to those of electrodiagnostic studies, because the latter was applied as the gold standard. Several other reports on the possible extra value of sonography in CTS are mentioned (mass lesions, anatomical variants, rheumatological diseases, renal dialysis–related amyloidosis, surgery, corticosteroid injection). It is probable that sonography will not replace electrodiagnostic studies, but may serve as an additional investigation. To gain further insight into the possible additional value of sonography, it is necessary to examine subcategories of CTS patients in which electrodiagnostic studies are equivocal. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Muscle Nerve 27: 26–33, 2003
X-ray absorption spectroscopy: state-of-the-art analysis
Authors: Natoli C. R. , Benfatto M. , Della Longa S. , Hatada K.
Published: January 2003

State-of-the-art techniques for analysing X-ray absorption spectra are reviewed, with an eye to biological applications. Recent attempts to perform full spectral fitting of the XANES energy region and beyond for the purpose of structural analysis have met with encouraging success. The present paper analyses the theoretical motivations behind this success and indicates routes for future improvements. The theoretical background is not entirely new, although the point of view is, and some sections and appendices present material that the authors believe has never been published before. The aim of this paper is to provide a theoretical analysis that is as self-contained as possible.
Simulating the XANES of metalloenzymes – a case study
Authors: Mijovilovich Ana , Meyer-Klaucke Wolfram
Published: January 2003

The analysis of XANES patterns is very indicative for screening samples. Powerful X-ray absorption spectroscopy data-analysis programs can simulate these patterns. Here, a case study on two structural motifs is presented: a non-heme Fe site (2-His-1-carboxylate motif) and the metallo β-lactamase dinuclear Zn site. Simulations of the edge shapes for different structural models will be compared with experimental results, pointing out limitations and challenges. The influence of single neighbouring atoms in the first and second shell on the resulting XANES pattern is discussed. Insights into catalytic mechanisms and the requirements for future theory development are addressed.
Experimental aspects of biological X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Ascone Isabella , Meyer-Klaucke Wolfram , Murphy Loretta
Published: January 2003

Spectroscopic techniques, like X-ray absorption spectroscopy, will provide important input for integrated biological projects in genomics and proteomics. This contribution summarizes technical requirements and typical set-ups for both simple and complex biological XAS experiments. An overview on different strategies for sample preparation is discussed in detail. Present and future BioXAS spectrometers are presented to help potential users in locating the spectrometer required for their biological application.
Amplification of exocytosis by Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release in INS‐1 pancreatic β cells
Authors: Kang Guoxin , Holz George G.
Published: January 2003

Functional coupling between Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release (CICR) and quantal exocytosis in 5‐hydroxytryptamine‐loaded INS‐1 β cells was assessed through the use of carbon fibre amperometry in combination with Fura‐2. CICR was evoked by the glucagon‐like‐peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist exendin‐4 (Ex‐4) and was accompanied by quantal secretory events appearing as amperometric current spikes time‐locked to the increase of [Ca2+]i. The action of Ex‐4 was reproduced by treatment with caffeine, and the source of Ca2+ serving as a stimulus for exocytosis originated from ryanodine and thapsigargin‐sensitive Ca2+ stores. Two distinct patterns of exocytosis occurred within 5 s following the initiation of CICR. Non‐summating exocytosis (NS‐type) was defined as multiple asynchronous current spikes, and the half‐height duration of each spike was 12‐48 ms. Summating exocytosis (S‐type) was defined as a cluster of spikes. It generated a macroscopic current, the half‐height duration of which was 243‐682 ms. The release charge of S‐type exocytosis was 3.2‐fold greater than that of NS‐type when measured 2 s following the initiation of secretion. NS‐type exocytosis was observed frequently under conditions in which the basal Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]B) was low (75‐150 nm), whereas S‐type exocytosis predominated under conditions in which the [Ca2+]B was elevated (200‐275 nm). Depolarization‐induced Ca2+ influx triggered NS‐type exocytosis in most cells tested, irrespective of [Ca2+]B. It is concluded that CICR is a highly effective stimulus for exocytosis in INS‐1 cells. The increase of [Ca2+]i that accompanies CICR stimulates the asynchronous release of a small number of secretory granules under conditions of low [Ca2+]B. When [Ca2+]B is slightly elevated, CICR targets a much larger pool of secretory granules that undergo summating exocytosis. The transition from NS‐type to S‐type exocytosis may represent an amplification mechanism for Ca2+‐dependent exocytosis.
Chronic acetylcholinesterase overexpression induces multilevelled aberrations in mouse neuromuscular physiology
Authors: Farchi Noa , Soreq Hermona , Hochner Binyamin
Published: January 2003

Chronic overexpression of the acetylcholine‐hydrolysing enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a notable consequence of exposure to anticholinesterase drugs or poisons. However, the physiological consequences for the resultant neuromuscular disfunction have not yet been carefully analysed. Here we report detailed dissection of the different components of neuromuscular function in transgenic mice previously shown to display motor fatigue and altered muscle morphology as a consequence of neuronal overexpression of AChE‐S, the synaptic AChE variant. Transgenic diaphragm muscle presented exaggerated fatigue as a combined consequence of neurotransmission fading and muscle mechanical malfunctioning. In a tetanic stimulation protocol, transgenic muscles rapidly fatigued to a larger extent than wild‐type muscles, when stimulated either directly or via the phrenic nerve. AChE overexpression involved moderate but significant aberrations of synaptic transmission with higher quantal content (measured at 0.2 mmCa2+, 2.3 mmMg2+). Furthermore, treatment with the anti‐cholinesterase physostigmine revealed a higher amplitude and half‐decay time of the transgenic quantal postsynaptic response. Our observations imply that elevated levels of neuronal AChE‐S are expected to cause muscle exhaustion due to a combination of modest, multilevelled aberrations in synaptic transmission, muscle function and morphology.
Orangutan Cultures and the Evolution of Material Culture
Authors: van Schaik Carel P. , Ancrenaz Marc , Borgen Gwendolyn , Galdikas Birute , Knott Cheryl D. , Singleton Ian , Suzuki Akira , Utami Sri Suci , Merrill Michelle
Published: January 2003

Geographic variation in some aspects of chimpanzee behavior has been interpreted as evidence for culture. Here we document similar geographic variation in orangutan behaviors. Moreover, as expected under a cultural interpretation, we find a correlation between geographic distance and cultural difference, a correlation between the abundance of opportunities for social learning and the size of the local cultural repertoire, and no effect of habitat on the content of culture. Hence, great-ape cultures exist, and may have done so for at least 14 million years.
Regulation of Chromatin Remodeling by Inositol Polyphosphates
Authors: Steger David J. , Haswell Elizabeth S. , Miller Aimee L. , Wente Susan R. , O'Shea Erin K.
Published: January 2003

Chromatin remodeling is required for efficient transcription of eukaryotic genes. In a genetic selection for budding yeast mutants that were defective in induction of the phosphate-responsive
PHO5
gene, we identified mutations in
ARG82/IPK2
, which encodes a nuclear inositol polyphosphate kinase. In
arg82
mutant strains, remodeling of
PHO5
promoter chromatin is impaired, and the adenosine triphosphate–dependent chromatin-remodeling complexes SWI/SNF and INO80 are not efficiently recruited to phosphate-responsive promoters. These results suggest a role for the small molecule inositol polyphosphate in the regulation of chromatin remodeling and transcription.
Ongoing Debate over Cosmic Neighbors
Authors: Tarter Jill
Published: January 2003

If the Universe Is Teeming with Aliens .. Where Is Everybody?
. Fifty Solutions to the Fermi Paradox and the Problem of Extraterrestrial Life. Stephen Webb. Copernicus (Springer-Verlag), New York, in association with Praxis, Chichester, UK, 2002. 300 pp. $27.50. ISBN 0-387-95501-1.

Sampling the wide variety of theories about extraterrestrial life, Webb recognizes three categories of answers to Fermi's question: aliens are among us, they have not yet communicated, or they do not exist.
tmRNA Is Required for Correct Timing of DNA Replication in
Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Keiler Kenneth C. , Shapiro Lucy
Published: January 2003

SsrA, or tmRNA, is a small RNA that interacts with selected translating ribosomes to target the nascent polypeptides for degradation. Here we report that SsrA activity is required for normal timing of the G
1
-to-S transition in
Caulobacter crescentus
. A deletion of the
ssrA
gene, or of the gene encoding SmpB, a protein required for SsrA activity, results in a specific delay in the cell cycle during the G
1
-to-S transition. The
ssrA
deletion phenotype is not due to accumulation of stalled ribosomes, because the deletion is not complemented by a mutated version of SsrA that releases ribosomes but does not target proteins for degradation. Degradation of the CtrA response regulator normally coincides with initiation of DNA replication, but in strains lacking SsrA activity there is a 40-min delay between the degradation of CtrA and replication initiation. This uncoupling of initiation of replication from CtrA degradation indicates that there is an SsrA-dependent pathway required for correct timing of DNA replication.