bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Hemorrhage during Microelectrode-guided Deep Brain Stimulator Implantation for Movement Disorders
Authors: Binder Devin K. , Rau Geoff M. , Starr Philip A.
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Although hemorrhage is a well-known complication of microelectrode-guided deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, risk factors for the development of hemorrhage have not been well defined. We analyzed the risk factors for symptomatic and asymptomatic hemorrhage in a large series of DBS implantations into the subthalamic nucleus, ventrolateral thalamus, and internal globus pallidus.

METHODS:

All DBS procedures performed by a single surgeon at our institution between June 1998 and May 2004 were included in this study. All patients had postoperative imaging (magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography) 4 to 24 hours after surgery. Hematomas were noted and scored as symptomatic or asymptomatic. Statistical correlation of factors affecting risk of hematoma formation was performed by use of logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS:

The total number of lead implantations was 481. There were 6 symptomatic hematomas and 10 asymptomatic hematomas. Three of the symptomatic hematomas resulted in permanent new neurological deficit. The risk of hematoma (of any type) per lead implantation was 3.3%, whereas the risk of permanent deficit from hematoma was 0.6%. Patients who developed hematomas had a slightly greater number of microelectrode recording penetrations than patients who did not have hematomas, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. There was not a statistically significant relationship between risk of hematoma and patient age or diagnosis. There was a significant effect of brain target (P = 0.001), with only 1 hemorrhage detected after thalamic DBS.

CONCLUSION:

DBS is generally safe, with only 0.6% of implantations associated with permanent neurological deficit. The incremental risk of successive serial microelectrode penetrations is small.
Hemothorax as a Complication after Anterior Cervical Discectomy: Case Report
Authors: Harhangi B Sanjay , Menovsky Tomas , Wurzer Hans A.L.
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

Anterior cervical discectomy is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures of the cervical spine.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

We describe a patient with a postoperative hemothorax as a complication after an anterior cervical discectomy.

INTERVENTION:

The patient was intubated, and reoperation and bronchoscopy were performed.

CONCLUSION:

To the best of our knowledge, such a complication has not been described before in the English-language literature. We conclude that hemothorax is a rare, although serious, complication after anterior cervical discectomy and should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients with respiratory failure after an anterior cervical discectomy.
Intramedullary Ectopic Choroid Plexus: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Dwarakanath Srinivas , Suri Ashish , Mahapatra Ashok Kumar , Mehta Veer Singh , Sharma Meher Chand
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

Intracranial cysts containing an ectopic choroid plexus or choroid plexus-like tissue have seldom been described in the literature. However, there has been no report of a spinal intramedullary cyst containing an ectopic choroid plexus. This is the first case report in the available literature of an ectopic choroid plexus tissue in the spinal cord.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 30-year-old man presented with complaints of progressive descending weakness of both upper limbs and increasing stiffness of the lower limbs along with numbness of all four limbs without a history of any bowel or bladder disturbances. Examination was suggestive of a C5–T2 intramedullary lesion. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a C6–T2 intramedullary cystic lesion along with a small anterosuperiorly placed lesion enhancing with contrast.

INTERVENTION:

A C6–T2 laminotomy and exploration of the intramedullary cyst and gross total microsurgical excision of the reddish vascular frond-like structure resembling the choroid plexus were performed along with a syringostomy. A laminoplasty with miniplates and screws was performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies revealed a normal choroid plexus. The patient has been followed for 1 year and has demonstrated symptomatic improvement.

CONCLUSION:

Although there have been rare case reports of drop metastasis of choroid plexus papillomas in the spine, this is the first case report in the available literature of normal but ectopic choroid plexus tissue in the spinal cord.
Treatment of Phenylketonuria-associated Tremor with Deep Brain Stimulation: Case Report
Authors: Payne Mary Say , Brown Benjamin Lyons , Rao Jayaraman , Payne Bryan Rankin
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism that causes severe neurological impairment, despite dietary treatment. We present a case of PKU-induced cerebellar tremor treated with deep brain stimulation. There have been no previously reported cases of a patient with a PKU tremor treated with deep brain stimulation.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 36-year-old male patient with PKU presented with signs of cerebellar disease including dysmetria, resting tremor, and intention tremor in the left upper extremity.

INTERVENTION:

A deep brain stimulation electrode was placed in the ventral intermediate nucleus of the right thalamus.

CONCLUSION:

Immediately after surgery, the patient had nearly complete resolution of intention tremor in the left arm. His resting tremor in the left hand was also greatly improved. The 30-month follow-up examination revealed maintenance of the immediate postoperative improvement.
Clinical Experience with the Intraparenchymal Intracranial Pressure Monitoring Codman MicroSensor System
Authors: Koskinen Lars-Owe D. , Olivecrona Magnus
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Our main objective was to study the reliability of the Codman MicroSensor (CMS), used for intracranial pressure (ICP) measurements, as it is used in a clinical setting. In particular, the drift from zero was studied.

METHODS:

The investigation is a prospective study of 128 patients with a need for neurointensive care who have been treated for various diseases. The patients received an intraparenchymal CMS device, and the zero drift was measured at explantation of the sensor. In another 22 patients, the ICP was recorded simultaneously from a ventriculostomy and a CMS, and the values were compared. The general data of complications and pitfalls are collected from close to 1000 CMS devices implanted.

RESULTS:

The CMS was used, on average, 7.2 ± 0.4 days per patient. The total time of ICP measurement was 20,040 hours, resulting in at least 7.2 × 107 measuring values displayed. The drift from zero was 0.9 ± 0.2 mm Hg, and no correlation with duration of use was found (P = 0.9, r = 0.002). There was a good correlation between ICP measured by CMS and by ventriculostomy (P < 0.0001, r = 0.79). The average ICP measured with the ventriculostomy was 18.3 ± 0.3 mm Hg, and with the CMS, it was 19.0 ± 0.2 mm Hg. A few minor hematomas were identified, and no infections directly connected to the device were observed. Some pitfalls in handling and problems during magnetic resonance imaging investigations are discussed.

CONCLUSION:

In our hands, the CMS device is reliable and easy to use. The ICP recordings are stable over time, and there is only a minor zero drift. The device is today our standard method for ICP measurements.
Prediction of Cerebral Vasospasm in Patients Presenting with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Review
Authors: Harrod Christopher G. , Bendok Bernard R. , Batjer H Hunt
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Cerebral vasospasm is a devastating medical complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). It is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, even after the aneurysm has been treated. A substantial amount of experimental and clinical research has been conducted in an effort to predict and prevent its occurrence. This research has contributed to significant advances in the understanding of the mechanisms leading to cerebral vasospasm. The ability to accurately and consistently predict the onset of cerebral vasospasm, however, has been challenging. This topic review describes the various methodologies and approaches that have been studied in an effort to predict the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm in patients presenting with SAH.

METHODS:

The English-language literature on the prediction of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal SAH was reviewed using the MEDLINE PubMed (1966–present) database.

RESULTS:

The risk factors, diagnostic imaging, bedside monitoring approaches, and pathological markers that have been evaluated to predict the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm after SAH are presented.

CONCLUSION:

To date, a large blood burden is the only consistently demonstrated risk factor for the prediction of cerebral vasospasm after SAH. Because vasospasm is such a multifactorial problem, attempts to predict its occurrence will probably require several different approaches and methodologies, as is done at present. Future improvements in the prevention of cerebral vasospasm from aneurysmal SAH will most likely require advances in our understanding of its pathophysiology and our ability to predict its onset.
Radiosurgery for Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Iwai Yoshiyasu , Yamanaka Kazuhiro , Yoshioka Katsunobu
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

We evaluated the effectiveness of gamma knife radiosurgery in the treatment of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas.

METHODS:

Between January 1994 and December 1999, we treated 34 patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas. Thirty-one of these patients were followed for more than 30 months. Their mean age was 52.9 years. All patients underwent resection before radiosurgery. In four patients, treatment was performed with staged radiosurgery. The treatment volume was 0.7 to 36.2 cm3 (median, 2.5 cm3). The treatment dose ranged from 8 to 20 Gy (median, 14.0 Gy) to the tumor margin. In 15 patients (48.4%), the tumor either compressed or was attached to the optic apparatus. The maximum dose to the optic apparatus was from 2 to 11 Gy (median, 8 Gy).

RESULTS:

Patients were followed for 30 to 108 months (median, 59.8 mo). The tumor size decreased in 18 patients (58.1%), remained unchanged in 9 patients (29.0%), and increased in four patients (12.9%). The 5-year actual tumor growth control rate was 93%. Among patients with tumor growth, two cases were secondary to cyst formation. Two patients (6.5%) required adrenal and thyroid hormonal replacement during the follow-up period after radiosurgery because of radiation-induced endocrinopathy. None of the patients sustained new cranial nerve deficits, which included optic neuropathy.

CONCLUSION:

In this series, radiosurgery had a high tumor growth control rate during the long-term follow-up period. Furthermore, we observed a low morbidity rate, with endocrinopathies and optic neuropathies. This low rate included even patients in whom the tumor compressed or was attached to the optic apparatus. We emphasize the necessity of long-term follow-up to evaluate late complications.
Homologous and heterologous reconstitution of Golgi to chloroplast transport and protein import into the complex chloroplasts of Euglena
Authors: Sláviková Silvia , Vacula Rostislav , Fang Zhiwei , Ehara Tomoko , Osafune Tetsuaki , Schwartzbach Steven D.
Published: March 2005

Euglena complex chloroplasts evolved through secondary endosymbiosis between a phagotrophic trypanosome host and eukaryotic algal endosymbiont. Cytoplasmically synthesized chloroplast proteins are transported in vesicles as integral membrane proteins from the ER to the Golgi apparatus to the Euglena chloroplast. Euglena chloroplast preprotein pre-sequences contain a functional N-terminal ER-targeting signal peptide and a domain having characteristics of a higher plant chloroplast targeting transit peptide, which contains a hydrophobic stop-transfer membrane anchor sequence that anchors the precursor in the vesicle membrane. Pulse-chase subcellular fractionation studies showed that 35S-labeled precursor to the light harvesting chlorophyll a/b binding protein accumulated in the Golgi apparatus of Euglena incubated at 15°C and transport to the chloroplast resumed after transfer to 26°C. Transport of the 35S-labeled precursor to the chlorophyll a/b binding protein from Euglena Golgi membranes to Euglena chloroplasts and import into chloroplasts was reconstituted using Golgi membranes isolated from 15°C cells returned to 26°C. Transport was dependent upon extra- and intrachloroplast ATP and GTP hydrolysis. Golgi to chloroplast transport was not inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide indicating that fusion of Golgi vesicles to the chloroplast envelope does not require N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF). This suggests that N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are not utilized in the targeting fusion reaction. The Euglena precursor to the chloroplast-localized small subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase was not imported into isolated pea chloroplasts. A precursor with the N-terminal signal peptide deleted was imported, indicating that the Euglena pre-sequence has a transit peptide that functions in pea chloroplasts. A precursor to the small subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase with the hydrophobic membrane anchor and the pre-sequence region C-terminal to the hydrophobic membrane anchor deleted was imported localizing the functional transit peptide to the Euglena pre-sequence region between the signal peptidase cleavage site and the hydrophobic membrane anchor. The Euglena precursor to the small subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase and the deletion constructs were not post-translationally imported into isolated Euglena chloroplasts indicating that vesicular transport is the obligate import mechanism. Taken together, these studies suggest that protein import into complex Euglena chloroplasts evolved by developing a novel vesicle fusion targeting system to link the host secretory system to the transit peptide-dependent chloroplast protein import system of the endosymbiont.
The nuclear rim protein Amo1 is required for proper microtubule cytoskeleton organisation in fission yeast
Authors: Pardo Mercedes , Nurse Paul
Published: March 2005

Microtubules have a central role in cell division and cell polarity in eukaryotic cells. The fission yeast is a useful organism for studying microtubule regulation owing to the highly organised nature of its microtubular arrays. To better understand microtubule dynamics and organisation we carried out a screen that identified over 30 genes whose overexpression resulted in microtubule cytoskeleton abnormalities. Here we describe a novel nucleoporin-like protein, Amo1, identified in this screen. Amo1 localises to the nuclear rim in a punctate pattern that does not overlap with nuclear pore complex components. Amo1Δ cells are bent, and they have fewer microtubule bundles that curl around the cell ends. The microtubules in amo1Δ cells have longer dwelling times at the cell tips, and grow in an uncoordinated fashion. Lack of Amo1 also causes a polarity defect. Amo1 is not required for the microtubule loading of several factors affecting microtubule dynamics, and does not seem to be required for nuclear pore function.
Mitomycin C-induced pairing of heterochromatin reflects initiation of DNA repair and chromatid exchange formation
Authors: Abdel-Halim H. I. , Natarajan A. T. , Mullenders L. H. F. , Boei J. J. W. A.
Published: March 2005

Chromatid interchanges induced by the DNA cross-linking agent mitomycin C (MMC) are over-represented in human chromosomes containing large heterochromatic regions. We found that nearly all exchange breakpoints of chromosome 9 are located within the paracentromeric heterochromatin and over 70% of exchanges involving chromosome 9 are between its homologues. We provide evidence that the required pairing of chromosome 9 heterochromatic regions occurs in G0/G1 and S-phase cells as a result of an active cellular process initiated upon MMC treatment. By contrast, no pairing was observed for a euchromatic paracentromeric region of the equal-sized chromosome 8. The MMC-induced pairing of chromosome 9 heterochromatin is observed in a subset of cells; its percentage closely mimics the frequency of homologous interchanges found at metaphase. Moreover, the absence of pairing in cells derived from XPF patients correlates with an altered spectrum of MMC-induced exchanges. Together, the data suggest that the heterochromatin-specific pairing following MMC treatment reflects the initiation of DNA cross-link repair and the formation of exchanges.
A novel isoform of human Golgi complex-localized glycoprotein-1 (also known as E-selectin ligand-1, MG-160 and cysteine-rich fibroblast growth factor receptor) targets differential subcellular localization
Authors: Ahn Jongcheol , Febbraio Maria , Silverstein Roy L.
Published: March 2005

The initial step in trafficking of leukocytes through the vascular endothelium is mediated by an adhesive interaction between molecules of the selectin family and their cognate receptors. Previously, a putative murine E-selectin ligand-1 (ESL-1) was identified and found to be identical to Golgi complex-localized glycoprotein-1 (GLG1), also known as MG-160, and to a previously identified basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-binding protein known as cysteine-rich FGF receptor (CFR). We report here a novel variant of the human GLG1 gene product that we call GLG2, cloned from a human monocyte cDNA library. GLG2 encodes a polypeptide identical to GLG1 except with a unique 24-amino-acid extension at the C-terminus of its cytoplasmic domain. Transfection of chimeric constructs into human embryonic kidney epithelial 293 cells revealed that the cytoplasmic domains of GLG1 and GLG2 targeted the expression of each chimeric protein differentially, GLG1 to the cell surface and GLG2 to the Golgi. Genetic analysis suggests that GLG1 and GLG2 are the products of a single gene, the mRNA of which can be processed by alternative splicing to generate two different transcripts encoding either GLG1 or GLG2. Northern blot analysis showed that the relative amounts of the mRNAs for either isoform differ in a cell- and species-specific manner. These data suggest that alternative splicing of the GLG1 gene transcript might regulate the function of its product.
Colorectal cancer screening in Finland: details of the national screening programme implemented in Autumn 2004
Authors: Malila Nea , Anttila Ahti , Hakama Matti
Published: March 2005

Colorectal cancer mortality can be reduced by repeated faecal occult blood (FOB) testing followed by colonoscopy for test positives. The object of this report is to describe how to launch a new screening programme in such a way that its effectiveness can be reliably evaluated. The programmeis based on gradual expansion over time with individual-level randomization into screening or control arms among a target population aged 60–69 years in Finland. The target population will be sampled from the population register for invitees and controls by municipality and by birthcohort. The non-invited controls will gradually be screened only after the six-year implementation period. After 10 years, the programme covers the entire target population. The effects of screening will be evaluated, comparing the incidence of and mortality from colorectal cancer in thoseinvited to screening with controls. The primary screening test is a biannual guaiac-based FOB test with three test cards for consecutive samples. In September–December 2004, around 5000 test-kits were sent to 22 piloting municipalities. In 2005, the programme expands both among municipalitiesand the target population, resulting in nearly 20,000 individual requests. The implementation of colorectal cancer screening in Finland in this way meets the criteria for a randomized controlled trial and the requirements for a public health programme. It allows unbiased research data to becollected while introducing the programme and may set an example for the introduction of all national screening programmes.
Validity of process indicators of screening for breast cancer to predict mortality reduction
Authors: Sarkeala T , Anttila A , Saarenmaa I , Hakama M
Published: March 2005

The aim of the study was to empirically assess the acceptable levels of process indicators as described in the European Community Guidelines using materials from the mammography service screening programmes. The Finnish programme was evaluated for effectiveness with a prior estimateof 0.74 for RR in Finland and 0.81 in Helsinki. Hence, the Finnish programme was likely to be somewhat less effective in terms of reduction in mortality than implied on the basis of early randomized trials, but probably approaching the same level of effectiveness. Finland therefore providesbackground data on the applicability of the process indicators that are indicators of performance and surrogates for effectiveness. The performance data on 10 Finnish screening centres at subsequent screens were used. These centres invited 687,000 women aged 50–64 years in 1991–2000.The mean compliance was 93% and the corresponding recall rate was 2.3%. The benign to malignant biopsy ratio was 0.43:1. The average breast cancer detection rate was 0.36%, 2.1 compared with the background incidence. The proportion of screen-detected stage II+ cancers was 26%. Most, but notall, of these process indicators met the desirable reference values of the European Community. The specific criteria of the European Community on stage distribution, rates of screen-detected cancers by stage and detection rate to background incidence may need reconsideration.
Comparison of the validity and reliability of two image classification systems for the assessment of mammogram quality
Authors: Moreira Conrad , Svoboda Kate , Poulos Ann , Taylor Richard , Page Andrew , Rickard Mary
Published: March 2005

Objective: To compare the reliability and validity of two classification systems used to evaluate the quality of mammograms: PGMI ('perfect', 'good', 'moderate' and 'inadequate') and EAR ('excellent', 'acceptable' and 'repeat').

Setting: New South Wales (Australia)population-based mammography screening programme (BreastScreen NSW).

Methods: Thirty sets of mammograms were rated by 21 radiographers and an expert panel. PGMI and EAR criteria were used to assign ratings to the medio-lateral oblique (MLO) and cranio-caudal (CC) views for each setof films. Inter-observer reliability and criterion validity (compared with expert panel ratings) were assessed using mean weighted observed agreement and kappa statistics.

Results: Reliability : Kappa values for both classification systems were low (0.01–0.17). PGMI producedsignificantly higher values than EAR. Agreement between raters was higher using PGMI than EAR for the MLO view (77% versus 74%, P<0.05), but was similar for the CC view. Dichotomized ratings ('acceptable' or 'needs repeating') did not improve reliability estimates. Validity : Kappavalues between raters and the reference standard were low for both classification systems (0.05–0.15). Agreement between raters and the reference standard was higher using PGMI than EAR for the MLO view (74% versus 63%), but was similar for the CC view. Dichotomized ratings of the MLOview showed slightly higher observer agreement.

Conclusions: Both PGMI and EAR have poor reliability and validity in evaluating mammogram quality. EAR is not a suitable alternative to PGMI, which must be improved if it is to be useful.
Global Warming and the Accumulation of Carbon Dioxide in the Atmosphere: A Critical Consideration of the Evidence
Authors: Rörsch A. , Courtney R.S. , Thoenes D.
Published: March 2005

This paper provides a literature study of the observations on temperature changes and the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It investigates the cause-effect relationship between these parameters, and makes an alternative interpretation to that given by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Blood Pressure in Native Americans Switched from Celecoxib to Rofecoxib
Authors: Fredy Jefferson , Diggins Daniel A , Morrill Gregory B
Published: March 2005

BACKGROUND:

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs have been associated with exacerbation of hypertension. Differing effects on blood pressure (BP) have been reported in studies comparing celecoxib and rofecoxib. Concern regarding the cardiovascular safety of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor class has intensified since the removal of rofecoxib from the market.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effect of a formulary change from celecoxib to rofecoxib on the BP of Native American patients at an Indian Health Service medical center.

METHODS:

Medical records of patients switched from celecoxib to rofecoxib were retrospectively reviewed. BP during the respective treatments was compared as follows: measurements recorded while taking celecoxib within 6 months before the index date and while taking rofecoxib from 1 week after the index date through 6 months of treatment were averaged. Differences in systolic and diastolic BP before and after the therapy change were evaluated using a paired Student's t-test. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients with preexisting hypertension.

RESULTS:

During rofecoxib therapy, the mean systolic BP was 2.9 mm Hg higher (p = 0.015) and the mean diastolic BP was 1.5 mm Hg higher (p = 0.042) than during celecoxib therapy. Among hypertensive patients, the respective mean systolic and diastolic BPs were 4.8 mm Hg (p = 0.009) and 2.0 mm Hg (p = 0.063) higher while taking rofecoxib.

CONCLUSIONS:

Switching patients from celecoxib to rofecoxib resulted in an increase in BP, with a larger difference observed in patients with hypertension. Future studies assessing the cardiovascular safety of currently marketed and investigational COX-2 inhibitors should evaluate the possible contribution of BP effects of these agents to overall risk.
Statistical Evaluation of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
Authors: Hlastala MP , Polissar NL , Oberman S
Published: March 2005

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) are used as qualitative indicators of impairment by alcohol in individuals suspected of DUI. Stuster and Burns authored a report on this testing and presented the SFSTs as being 91% accurate in predicting Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) as lying at or above 0.08%. Their conclusions regarding accuracy are heavily weighted by the large number of subjects with very high BAC levels. This present study re-analyzes the original data with a more complete statistical evaluation. Our evaluation indicates that the accuracy of the SFSTs depends on the BAC level and is much poorer than that indicated by Stuster and Burns. While the SFSTs may be usable for evaluating suspects for BAC, the means of evaluation must be significantly modified to represent the large degree of variability of BAC in relation to SFST test scores. The tests are likely to be mainly useful in identifying subjects with a BAC substantially greater than 0.08%. Given the moderate to high correlation of the tests with BAC, there is potential for improved application of the test after further development, including a more diverse sample of BAC levels, adjustment of the scoring system and a statistically-based method for using the SFST to predict a BAC greater than 0.08%.
A Simple Automated Instrument for DNA Extraction in Forensic Casework
Authors: Montpetit SA , Fitch IT , O'Donnell PT
Published: March 2005

The Qiagen BioRobot EZ1 is a small, rapid, and reliable automated DNA extraction instrument capable of extracting DNA from up to six samples in as few as 20 min using magnetic bead technology. The San Diego Police Department Crime Laboratory has validated the BioRobot EZ1 for the DNA extraction of evidence and reference samples in forensic casework. The BioRobot EZ1 was evaluated for use on a variety of different evidence sample types including blood, saliva, and semen evidence. The performance of the BioRobot EZ1 with regard to DNA recovery and potential cross-contamination was also assessed. DNA yields obtained with the BioRobot EZ1 were comparable to those from organic extraction. The BioRobot EZ1 was effective at removing PCR inhibitors, which often co-purify with DNA in organic extractions. The incorporation of the BioRobot EZ1 into forensic casework has streamlined the DNA analysis process by reducing the need for labor-intensive phenol-chloroform extractions.
Analysis of Fiber Dyes By Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) with Electrospray Ionization: Discriminating Between Dyes with Indistinguishable UV-Visible Absorption Spectra
Authors: Huang M , Russo R , Fookes BG , Sigman ME
Published: March 2005

Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is shown to provide high discriminating power for the identification of textile dyes that can not be reliably distinguished on the basis of their UV/visible absorption profile. Seven pairs of commercial dyes having nearly identical UV/visible absorption profiles and absorption maxima within 5 nm, were identified successfully by LC-MS. Two pairs of cotton fibers, which were indistinguishable by microspectrophotometry, were differentiated by LC-MS. A single wavelength UV/visible detector was used to monitoring dye elution from the column. The utility of the method for comparing questioned and known fibers is discussed.
Matricide by Person with Bipolar Disorder and Dependent Overcompliant Personality
Authors: Livaditis MD , Esagian GS , Kakoulidis CP , Samakouri MA , Tzavaras NA
Published: March 2005

Matricide is an infrequent form of homicide. This paper is to present a case of matricide with typical characteristics of the act but interesting particularities as well. The perpetrator was a 43-year-old man, respected member of his community, with over compliant characteristics, eagerness in serving people and caring his parents, good social adaptation before and after the crime. He abandoned his family and work in order to better serve his old, disabled but over demanding mother who frequently insulted and humiliated him. Suddenly he came to a state of “mental confusion” and strangled her. After the crime, the perpetrator manifested the symptoms of a bipolar disorder and also received the diagnosis of dependant personality disorder. Years later, he presented again a crisis of escalating aggressive urge for which he was hospitalized. Many people and associations of his hometown actively demanded the minimal possible punishment for him. The case is discussed especially concerning: a) hypotheses about the aetiopathogeny of the act, b) the constant support provided to the perpetrator by his family and social environment.
The Mask Detection Technology for Occluded Face Analysis in the Surveillance System
Authors: Wen CY , Chiu SH , Tseng YR , Lu CP
Published: March 2005

The surveillance systems have been widely used in automatic teller machines (ATMs), banks, convenient stores, etc. For example, when a customer uses the ATM, the surveillance systems will record his/her face information. The information will help us understand and trace who withdrew money. However, when criminals use the ATM to withdraw illegal money, they usually block their faces with something (in Taiwan, criminals usually use safety helmets or masks to block their faces). That will degrade the purpose of the surveillance system. In previous work, we already proposed a technology for safety helmet detection. In this paper, we propose a mask detection technology based upon automatic face recognition methods. We use the Gabor filters to generate facial features and utilize geometric analysis algorithms for mask detection. The technology can give an early warning to save-guards when any “customer” or “intruder” blocks his/her face information with a mask. Besides, the technology can assist face detection in the automatic face recognition system. Experimental results show the performance and reliability of the proposed technology.
Inhomogeneity and Aging of Ballpoint Pen Inks Inside of Pen Cartridges
Authors: Andrasko J , Kunicki M
Published: March 2005

Inhomogeneity and aging of ballpoint pen inks inside of cartridges, particularly near the tip of a pen, were studied by HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography). No indication of aging in terms of changes in dye composition inside of a regularly used pen was observed. Ink entries on paper were, however, found inhomogeneous concerning concentration of phenoxyethanol, a volatile compound commonly present in ballpoint inks. Detectable and sometimes considerable aging of inks near the tip of cartridges not used for writing for many years was observed. Both evaporation of phenoxyethanol and aging of cationic dye mixture were detected at the start when writing with such pens. The consequence of this finding for ink examination, both ink comparison and ink aging, is discussed.
Neurodegenerative Illness in Transgenic Mice Expressing a Transmembrane Form of the Prion Protein
Authors: Stewart Richard S. , Piccardo Pedro , Ghetti Bernardino , Harris David A.
Published: March 2005

Although PrPScis thought to be the infectious form of the prion protein, it may not be the form that is responsible for neuronal cell death in prion diseases.CtmPrP is a transmembrane version of the prion protein that has been proposed to be a neurotoxic intermediate underlying prion-induced pathogenesis. To investigate this hypothesis, we have constructed transgenic mice that express L9R-3AV PrP, a mutant prion protein that is synthesized exclusively in theCtmPrP form in transfected cells. These mice develop a fatal neurological illness characterized by ataxia and marked neuronal loss in the cerebellum and hippocampus.CtmPrP in neurons cultured from transgenic mice is localized to the Golgi apparatus, rather than to the endoplasmic reticulum as in transfected cell lines. Surprisingly, development of the neurodegenerative phenotype is strongly dependent on coexpression of endogenous, wild-type PrP. Our results provide new insights into the cell biology ofCtmPrP, the mechanism by which it induces neurodegeneration, and possible cellular activities of PrPC.
Retinoic Acid-Induced Chromatin Remodeling of Mouse κ Opioid Receptor Gene
Authors: Park Sung Wook , Huq M. D. Mostaqul , Loh Horace H. , Wei Li-Na
Published: March 2005

The mouse κ opioid receptor (KOR) gene is constitutively expressed in P19 embryonic stem cells but is first suppressed and reactivated during retinoic acid (RA)-induced neuronal differentiation. However, no RA response element (RARE) can be found in this gene regulatory region. The suppression and reactivation of theKORgene in this neuronal differentiation model suggested chromatin remodeling occurred on this gene promoter triggered by RA induction. This study asks whether RA induces alteration in the nucleosomal structure of this gene promoter that has no apparent RARE and, if so, how RA remodels chromatin of this promoter. The results revealed two loose nucleosomes, N1 at -44 (3′ boundary) from the transcription initiation site and N2 spanning the transcription initiation site, that are relevant to active transcription. RA formed a repressive chromatin configuration of this promoter by compacting nucleosome N1, followed by nucleosome N2 condensation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated RA induced replacement of the c-Myc/Max complex with the Max/Mad1 complex on the E box located within nucleosome N1, coinciding with reduced Sp1 binding to GC boxes located within nucleosome N2 and recruitment of chromatin remodeling factor Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG-1) to this promoter. Consistently, histone deacetylation, Lys9 methylation, and hypophosphorylation of RNA polymerase II C-terminal domain were detected on this promoter after RA treatment. It is concluded that RA inducesKORgene suppression, as early neuronal differentiation marker, by inducing substitution of c-Myc/Max with Max/Mad on the E box and by BRG-1 involved nucleosome recruitment and chromatin condensation, thereby abolishing Sp1 binding.
β-Adrenergic Receptor Activation Facilitates Induction of a Protein Synthesis-Dependent Late Phase of Long-Term Potentiation
Authors: Gelinas Jennifer N. , Nguyen Peter V.
Published: March 2005

Long-term potentiation (LTP) is activity-dependent enhancement of synaptic strength that can critically regulate long-term memory storage. Like memory, LTP exhibits at least two mechanistically distinct temporal phases. Early LTP (E-LTP) does not require protein synthesis, whereas the late phase of LTP (L-LTP), like long-term memory, requires protein synthesis. Hippocampal β-adrenergic receptors can regulate expression of both E-LTP and long-term memory. Although β-adrenergic receptor activation enhances the ability of subthreshold stimuli to induce E-LTP, it is unclear whether such activation can facilitate induction of L-LTP. Here, we use electrophysiological recording methods on mouse hippocampal slices to show that when synaptic stimulation that is subthreshold for inducing L-LTP is paired with β-adrenergic receptor activation, the resulting LTP persists for over 6 h in area CA1. Like L-LTP induced by multiple trains of high-frequency electrical stimulation, this LTP requires protein synthesis. Unlike tetanus-induced L-LTP, however, L-LTP induced by β-adrenergic receptor activation during subthreshold stimulation appears to involve dendritic protein synthesis but not somatic transcription. Maintenance of this LTP also requires activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs). Thus, β-adrenergic receptor activation elicits a type of L-LTP that requires translation and ERK activation but not transcription. This form of L-LTP may be a cellular mechanism for facilitation of behavioral long-term memory during periods of heightened emotional arousal that engage the noradrenergic modulatory system.
Specializations for Chromatic and Temporal Signals in Human Visual Cortex
Authors: Liu Junjie , Wandell Brian A.
Published: March 2005

Neurological case studies and qualitative measurements suggest that regions within human extrastriate cortex are specialized for different perceptual functions, including color. However, there are few quantitative measurements of human extrastriate color specializations. We studied the chromatic and temporal responses in several different clusters of human visual field maps using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Contrast response functions were measured for luminance [(L + M)-cone], red-green [(L - M)-cone] and blue-yellow (S-cone) modulations at various temporal frequencies. In primary visual cortex (V1), temporal responsivities to luminance and red-green modulations are approximately constant up to 10 Hz, but responsivities to blue-yellow modulations decrease significantly. In ventral occipital cortex (VO), all colors elicit strong responses, and, for each color, low temporal frequency modulations are more effective than high temporal frequency modulations. Hence, VO represents the full range of color information but does not respond well to rapid modulations. Conversely, in human motion-selective cortex (MT+) and V3A, blue-yellow modulations elicit very weak responses, whereas luminance and red-green high temporal frequency modulations are equally or more effective than low temporal frequency modulations. Hence, these dorsal occipital regions respond well to rapid modulations, but not all color information is represented. Similar to human motion perception, MT+ and V3A respond powerfully to all temporal frequencies but only to some colors. Similar to human color perception, VO responds powerfully to all colors but only to relatively low temporal frequencies.
Amantadine Inhibits NMDA Receptors by Accelerating Channel Closure during Channel Block
Authors: Blanpied Thomas A. , Clarke Richard J. , Johnson Jon W.
Published: March 2005

The channel of NMDA receptors is blocked by a wide variety of drugs. NMDA receptor channel blockers include drugs of abuse that induce psychotic behavior, such as phencyclidine, and drugs with wide therapeutic utility, such as amantadine and memantine. We describe here the molecular mechanism of amantadine inhibition. In contrast to most other described channel-blocking molecules, amantadine causes the channel gate of NMDA receptors to close more quickly. Our results confirm that amantadine binding inhibits current flow through NMDA receptor channels but show that its main inhibitory action at pharmaceutically relevant concentrations results from stabilization of closed states of the channel. The surprising variation in the clinical utility of NMDA channel blockers may in part derive from their diverse effects on channel gating.
Kv1.1 Deletion Augments the Afferent Hypoxic Chemosensory Pathway and Respiration
Authors: Kline David D. , Buniel Maria C. F. , Glazebrook Patricia , Peng Ying-Jie , Ramirez-Navarro Angelina , Prabhakar Nanduri R. , Kunze Diana L.
Published: March 2005

Mutations in the potassium channel gene Kv1.1 are associated with human episodic ataxia type 1 (EA-1) syndrome characterized by movement disorders and epilepsy. Ataxic episodes in EA-1 patients are often associated with exercise or emotional stress, which suggests a prominent role for the autonomic nervous system. Many of these alterations are reproduced in the Kv1.1-null mouse. Kv1.1 also regulates excitability of sensory neurons essential in cardiovascular and respiratory reflexes. We examined the neural control of the respiratory system of littermate wild-type (control) and Kv1.1-null mice during low O2(hypoxia). Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated Kv1.1 in the afferent limb of the carotid body chemoreflex (the major regulator in the response to hypoxia), consisting of the carotid body, petrosal ganglion, and nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Respiration was examined by plethysmography. Null mice exhibited a greater increase in respiration during hypoxia compared with controls.In vitrocarotid body sensory discharge during hypoxia was greater in null than control mice. In the caudal NTS, evoked EPSCs in brainstem slices were similar between control and null mice. However, the frequency of spontaneous and miniature EPSCs was greater in null mice. Null mice also exhibited more asynchronous release after a stimulus train. These results demonstrate the important role of Kv1.1 in afferent chemosensory activity and suggest that mutations in the human Kv1.1 gene have functional consequences during stress responses that involve respiratory reflexes.
Sonic Hedgehog Has a Dual Effect on the Growth of Retinal Ganglion Axons Depending on Its Concentration
Authors: Kolpak Adrianne , Zhang Jinhua , Bao Zheng-Zheng
Published: March 2005

The stereotypical projection of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons to the optic disc has served as a good model system for studying axon guidance. By bothin vitroandin vivoexperiments, we show that a secreted molecule, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), may play a critical role in the process. It is expressed in a dynamic pattern in the ganglion cell layer with a relatively higher expression in the center of the retina. Through gel culture and stripe assays, we show that Shh has a dual effect on RGC axonal growth, acting as a positive factor at low concentrations and a negative factor at high concentrations. Results from time-lapse video microscopic and stripe assay experiments further suggest that the effects of Shh on axons are not likely attributable to indirect transcriptional regulation by Shh. Overexpression of Shh protein or inhibition of Shh function inside the retina resulted in a complete loss of centrally directed projection of RGC axons, suggesting that precise regulation of Shh level inside the retina is critical for the projection of RGC axons to the optic disc.
Molecular interactions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and its biological and toxicological relevance for reproduction
Authors: Pocar P , Fischer B , Klonisch T , Hombach-Klonisch S
Published: March 2005

The dioxin/aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor responsive to both natural and man-made environmental compounds. AhR and its nuclear partner ARNT are expressed in the female reproductive tract in a variety of species and several indications suggest that the AhR might play a pivotal role in the physiology of reproduction. Furthermore, it appears to be the mediator of most, if not all, the adverse effects on reproduction of a group of highly potent environmental pollutants collectively called aryl hydrocarbons (AHs), including the highly toxic compound 2,3,7,8-tetrachlor-odibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Although a large body of recent literature has implicated AhR in multiple signal transduction pathways, the mechanisms of action resulting in a wide spectrum of effects on female reproduction are largely unknown. Here we summarize the major types of molecular cross-talks that have been identified for the AhR and linked cell signaling pathways and that are relevant for the understanding of the role of this transcription factor in female reproduction.
Expression of TASK and TREK, two-pore domain K+ channels, in human myometrium
Authors: Bai Xilian , Bugg George J , Greenwood Susan L , Glazier Jocelyn D , Sibley Colin P , Baker Philip N , Taggart Michael J , Fyfe Gregor K
Published: March 2005

Two-pore domain K+channels are an emerging family of K+channels that may contribute to setting membrane potential in both electrically excitable and non-excitable cells and, as such, influence cellular function. The human uteroplacental unit contains both excitable (e.g. myometrial) and non-excitable cells, whose function depends upon the activity of K+channels. We have therefore investigated the expression of two members of this family, TWIK (two-pore domain weak inward rectifying K+channel)-related acid-sensitive K+channel (TASK) and TWIK-related K+channel (TREK) in human myometrium. Using RT-PCR the mRNA expression of TASK and TREK isoforms was examined in myometrial tissue from pregnant women. mRNAs encoding TASK1, 4 and 5 and TREK1 were detected whereas weak or no signals were observed for TASK2, TASK3 and TREK2. Western blotting for TASK1 gave two bands of approximately 44 and 65 kDa, whereas TREK1 gave bands of approximately 59 and 90 kDa in myometrium from pregnant women. TASK1 and TREK1 immunofluorescence was prominent in intracellular and plasmalemmal locations within myometrial cells. Therefore, we conclude that the human myometrium is a site of expression for the two-pore domain K+channel proteins TASK1 and TREK1.
Gene expression for LH receptor, 17α-hydroxylase and StAR in the theca interna of preantral and early antral follicles in the bovine ovary
Authors: Braw-Tal R , Roth Z
Published: March 2005

The onset of gene expression for three proteins that play pivotal roles in theca interna function, namely the LH receptor (LH-R), cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase (17αOH) and the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), was determined. Ovaries were obtained on day 9 of the oestrus cycle from mature synchronized dairy cows (n= 5) and gene expression in preantral and antral follicles up to 4 mm in diameter was evaluated byin situhybridization. LH-R and 17αOH mRNAs were observed first, in the theca interna of large preantral follicles (type 4), concurrent with its morphological differentiation. StAR mRNA appeared later during follicular growth, in follicles >1 mm in diameter (type 6). LH-R and 17αOH mRNAs were found exclusively in the thecal cells, whereas StAR mRNA appeared in thecal cells, granulosa cells of late atretic follicles and oocytes. In early atresia, thecal cells expressed all three mRNAs, and their expression decreased gradually as atresia progressed. Atresia in granulosa cells was characterized by massive apoptosis of periantral, but not peribasal cells, that differentiated into luteal-like cells expressing StAR.

In summary, our study suggests that in spite of the presence of 17αOH, a key enzyme in steroidogenesis, the ability to produce steroids by bovine follicles smaller than 1 mm in diameter must be very limited due to the absence of StAR protein. During the early stages of atresia, thecal cells remain morphologically and functionally healthy, and continue to express all three studied mRNAs.