bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Disappearance of Lumbar Disk Herniation Within 3 Months
Authors: Nozawa Satoshi , Nozawa Asae , Kojima Hisashi , Shimizu Katsuji
Published: November 2009

Although spontaneous regression of disk herniation is a well-known phenomenon, the time taken for the condition to resolve has not been detailed in previous studies.

This article describes a case of vanishing lumbar disk herniation in a 33-year-old man. The patient experienced sudden severe lumbar pain while lifting a 240-kg weight while attempting a Donkey Calf Raise during muscle training. The pain persisted despite the use of a lumbar corset and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Twelve days after onset, sensory disturbance appeared in the right L5 dermatome, and a manual muscle test of the right anterior tibial muscle revealed level 3. The pain gradually spread over the right lower extremity and the indistinct lumbago changed to localized back pain at the L4/5 vertebral level. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine 12 days after onset revealed a large disk herniation at L4/5. T2-weighted images demonstrated the herniated disk with a sequestrated disk fragment, which compressed the right L5 nerve root. Over the following month, his pain gradually diminished and he was able to resume his muscle-building program. Follow-up MRI 3 months after the lumbar injury showed complete disappearance of the extruded disk material. This is the first reported case of disk herniation that disappeared within only 3 months, as previous reports have reported that a minimum 30-week period was needed. Clinical awareness of the possibility that disk herniation may resolve within a relatively short time may aid both correct informed consent and treatment.
Acetabular Cup Malalignment After Total Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty: A Case for Elective Revision?
Authors: Mai CAPT Matthew C. , Milbrandt Joseph C. , Hulsen John , Allan D. Gordon
Published: November 2009

This article describes the clinical course of a patient with a resurfacing implant in a poor cup position in combination with elevated serum metal ions prior to implant failure. Following resurfacing, the patient had substantial improvement from baseline in pain and functional status. Postoperative radiographs indicated the acetabular cup in an abducted and excessively anteverted position. The acetabular component ultimately failed after 4.5 years and a traditional total hip arthroplasty revision was performed. Serum cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) concentrations had been collected postoperatively of the index procedure at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and pre- and postoperatively at the time of implant revision. Serum cobalt and chromium ion levels were progressively elevated to approximately 400 times more than the expected range at all time points prior to revision. Elective revision had been considered due to acetabular malalignment and elevated metal ion levels, but not performed since the patient was doing well clinically. A recent study has shown a correlation between increased cup inclination and increased serum cobalt or chromium levels and this patient's levels were >40 times greater than that typically observed with this device. Early revision should be strongly considered if component malpositioning is noted, and abnormally elevated ion concentrations should signal the need for revision regardless of the patient's clinical status. The relationship of a malpositioned cup and uncharacteristically elevated metal ion levels is related to the metal-on-metal bearing coupling and likely applies to conventional metal-on-metal total hip prostheses as well.
Osteoid Osteoma: A Diagnosis for Radicular Pain of Extremities
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Mohamad H. , Ahmadzadeh-Chabock Hosein , Ebrahimzadeh Ali Reza
Published: November 2009

Osteoid osteoma is a benign tumor commonly found in young patients. The most interesting feature of the tumor is its peculiar obvious pain. The intensity of pain produced by osteoid osteoma is unproportionate to its nature and size. Much has been written about the mechanism of this symptom of the tumor and the specific characteristics of the pain that can be misleading when appearing as radicular pain especially when some subtle neurologic signs and symptoms accompany the pain.

In this article, 12 patients who were referred to our clinic with radicular pain and neurological signs and symptoms months after initiation of symptoms between 2000 and 2008 are presented. Of these 12 patients, most were first thought to have root compression disease before being referred to our hospital.

Precise history taking and special attention to physical examinations led to a suspicion of osteoid osteoma. Plain radiographs, computed tomography, and bone scans indicated osteoid osteoma, and excisional biopsy confirmed its diagnosis.

Osteoid osteoma should always be considered in young patients with radicular pain, even with subtle neurological signs and symptoms.
Surgical Treatment of an Acetabular Fracture and Labral Tear With Suture Anchors in a 10-Year-Old Child
Authors: Mormor Meir , Matityahu Amir
Published: November 2009

This article presents a case of a 10-year-old boy with a right acetabular fracture secondary to a direct blow to the pelvis and back. He sustained a right hip dislocation and transverse with posterior wall acetabular fracture with a nonconcentric hip joint after reduction. The fracture was treated with right labral and articular segment absorbable suture tie-down and relocation of the right hip into an anatomical position. At 32-month follow-up, the patient had returned to activities of daily living, he had a normal and symmetric gait pattern, and no pain on hip adduction, flexion, or internal rotation.

This technique reduced the fracture and labrum, relocated the hip joint, and obviated the need for hardware removal that is typically needed in the pediatric population. This case is distinctive due to the patient's young age and treatment method, which has not been described previously for the treatment of this rare pediatric fracture.
Membrane Type-1 Metalloproteinase Mediates Nitric Oxide-Induced Activation of Matrix Metalloproteinase-13
Authors: Guo Ai , Yang Lin , Gu Jun-Chao
Published: November 2009

This article investigates the mechanism of activation of matrix metalloproteinase-13 induced by nitric oxide. SW1353 cells were stimulated with S-nitroso-N-acetyl-D,L-penicillamine, expressions and activities of metalloproteinase-13, and membrane type-1 metalloproteinase were assayed, and a proteolytic activation of recombinant human metalloproteinase-13 was measured in the presence of recombinant human membrane type-1 metalloproteinase. Nitric oxide increased expressions of both matrix metalloproteinases and stimulated the proteolytic processing of metalloproteinase-13 from the pro-enzyme to the final active form. Recombinant human membrane type-1 metalloproteinase was able to process recombinant human metalloproteinase-13 to fully active enzyme. S-nitroso-N-acetyl-D,L-penicillamine had no effect on recombinant human metalloproteinase-13 activity. Nitric oxide scavenger (OxyHb) strongly attenuated nitric oxide-induced proteolytic activation of metalloproteinase-13. Furthermore, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 markedly reduced the activation of metalloproteinase-13 in response to nitric oxide. These studies identify membrane type-1 metalloproteinase as a target for nitric oxide, which may be critical for the nitric oxide-induced activation of metalloproteinase-13.
Total Cholesterol and the Risk of Parkinson's Disease: A Review for Some New Findings
Authors: Hu Gang
Published: November 2009

The studies on the association between serum cholesterol level and the risks of neurodegenerative diseases risk are debated. Some prospective studies have found that high serum cholesterol may increase the risks of dementia/Alzheimer's disease and ischemic stroke. However, other studies have found no association or a decreased risk of hemorrhagic stroke with increasing levels of serum total cholesterol. Little is known about the association between serum total cholesterol or a history of hypercholesterolemia and Parkinson's disease (PD) risk. Only a few case-control studies and four prospective epidemiological studies have examined this association, but the results are inconsistent. An inverse association between serum total cholesterol and the risk of PD has been found in one prospective study; however, no significant association is reported in the case-control studies and other two prospective studies. Recently, one large prospective study from Finland suggests that high total cholesterol at baseline is associated with an increased risk of PD. Further studies, especially large clinical trials, are needed.
Changes in Adenylate Nucleotides Concentration and , -ATPase Activities in Erythrocytes of Horses in Function of Breed and Sex
Authors: Suska Maria , Skotnicka Ewa
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between the concentrations of ATP, ADP, AMP (HPLC methods), total nucleotide pool (TAN), adenylate energy charge (AEC) and , -ATPase erythrocytic activities (by Choi's method) of horses as a function of breed and sex. The studies were conducted on 54 horses (stallions and mares) of different constitution types: breathing constitution (Wielkopolska and Hanoverian breed) and digestive constitution (Ardenian breed). Horse erythrocytes, independently of examined breed, present low ATP concentration in comparison to other mammal species while retaining relatively high AEC. Erythrocytes of breathing constitution type horses appear to have a more intensive glucose metabolism and a more efficient energetic metabolism when compared to digestive constitution type horses. The conclusions may be proven by significantly higher ATP concentration, higher TAN and significantly higher AEC in breathing constitution type horses compared to the digestive constitution type. Sex does not significantly influence adenine nucleotides concentration in the erythrocytes of the examined horses, however, stallions have slightly higher values in comparison to mares. A positive correlation was found between , , -ATPase activity, ATP, ADP and AMP concentration and TAN in Wielkopolska and Ardenian breeds, which was not confirmed for the Hanoverian breed.
Jesus the ‘teacher-saviour’ or ‘saviour-teacher’: Reading the Gospel of Matthew in Chinese contexts
Authors: Yieh John Y.H.
Published: November 2009

While every interpretation is culturally particular and context-specific, the critical assessment of the hermeneutical principles and social consequences of real examples from different cultures may facilitate fresh readings of the scripture with more creative imagination, theological integrity and ethical responsibility. This essay investigates three influential interpretations of Matthew’s Gospel by well-known Christian leaders in China: Hong Xiuquan, Wu Leichuan and Watchman Nee. Different theological orientations notwithstanding, they all highlight Jesus’ role as ‘saviour and teacher’ and favour the Sermon on the Mount. The strategies that they use to appropriate Matthew’s Gospel and to make Jesus relevant show what it takes to ensure a sound hermeneutical process. They also bring to the table of Matthean scholarship insight into the roles that Jesus plays in the Gospel narrative and in various socio-cultural settings. Finally, they provide interesting cases for a brief refl ection on cross-cultural readings and post-colonial criticism that have fascinated recent biblical scholars.
‘Foxes’ holes and birds’ nests’ (Mt 8:20): A postcolonial reading for South Africans from the perspective of Matthew’s anti-societal language
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: November 2009

South Africa is experiencing an exceptionally high crime rate and many people, across the various ethnic groups, are beset by poverty. The question is whether the prevalence of violence in South Africa is the result of neocolonialism or postcolonialism, among other complicated sociological factors. The current article suggests how postcolonial hermeneutics can provide access to the diverse complexities of Africa. Postcolonial consciousness means that the experience of the Other is taken seriously from their own perspective. From the perspective of anti-societal language in the Gospel of Matthew, postcolonial theory is presented as a tool for biblical interpretation that assists in identifying colonial intentions that informed and influenced the South African context. Such theory calls for a constructive reading of concerns relating to justice. The article focuses on the Jesus saying, as influenced by Roman imperial policy. It deals with the comparison between the fate of beasts and that of the son of man, who has nowhere to lay his head (Mt 8:20).
‘They did to him whatever they pleased’: The exercise of political power within Matthew’s narrative
Authors: Weaver Dorothy J.
Published: November 2009

To read Matthew’s Gospel within the global context is to read this narrative vis-à-vis the urgent challenges facing the global community. One such challenge concerns the exercise of political power within the public arena. Throughout his narrative Matthew paints a vivid portrait of the political power brokers of Jesus’ world and the unsavoury methods that they use to achieve their goals. He also offers graphic depictions of political power as wielded by those in authority. This study examines Matthew’s narrative portrait of the first-century authorities, Roman and Jewish, who exercised power in Palestine and beyond. Part one depicts these authorities and their methods of exercising political power. Part two assesses the relative effectiveness of such uses of power in Matthew’s depiction. Part three points toward Matthew’s contrasting portrait of positive leadership patterns. Part four assesses Matthew’s narrative rhetoric as a tool for fruitful refl ection on the use of political power.
‘Yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table’: Matthew’s Gospel and economic globalisation
Authors: Novakovic Lidija
Published: November 2009

One of the effects of economic globalisation is that it strengthens the superiority of the developed and intensifies the dependency of the undeveloped nations. Christian ethicists typically address this problem by emphasising the need for social justice and the ethics of love expressed through sharing and generosity. This article offers another contribution to this discussion – an analysis of the subversive understanding of power and identity that underlies the story of Jesus in Matthew’s narrative. It concludes that Matthew’s Gospel offers a message of encouragement and accountability. It encourages the underprivileged to work for a change of conventional hierarchies that favour the privileged and calls them to actively participate in the creation of just relationships. At the same time, it reminds those who manage to improve their conditions that they should be transformed by the grace shown to them and strive for righteousness that exceeds the ethical standards of their former superiors.
Reading the Gospel of Matthew within the global context: A response
Authors: Wainwright Elaine M.
Published: November 2009

This article responds to the diversity of approaches in the five papers presented at the Matthew Section of the Society of Biblical Literature, held in Boston (Massachusetts), 21–25 November 2008. This response focuses on an overarching question: what does it mean to read Matthew in a global context? It considers two key areas. The first is location and voice/language and the second, the hermeneutics and methodologies employed and how these enabled John Y.H. Yieh (Virginia Theological Seminary), Andries van Aarde (University of Pretoria), Dorothy Jean Weaver (Eastern Mennonite Seminary), Laura Anderson (Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley) and Lidija Novakovic (Baylor University, Waco) to read Matthew within a global context.
Interpreting the Gospel of Matthew in light of current global realities: A response
Authors: Ulrich Daniel W.
Published: November 2009

This article consists of a response to fi ve papers presented by John Y.H. Yieh (Virginia Theological Seminary), Andries van Aarde (University of Pretoria), Dorothy Jean Weaver (Eastern Mennonite Seminary), Laura Anderson (Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley), and Lidija Novakovic (Baylor University, Waco), presented at the Matthew Section of the Society of Biblical Literature, held in Boston (Massachusetts), 21–25 November 2008. This response focuses on three questions: How can awareness of diverse perspectives or global realities enhance readers’ understandings of the Gospel of Matthew? In what ways might the Gospel of Matthew address global problems such as poverty, injustice and violence? To what extent do readers need a hermeneutics of suspicion in order to interpret Matthew responsibly in light of current global realities?
Intrinsic Surface Dipoles Control the Energy Levels of Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Heimel Georg , Salzmann Ingo , Duhm Steffen , Rabe Jürgen P. , Koch Norbert
Published: November 2009

Conjugated polymers are an important class of materials for organic electronics applications. There, the relative alignment of the electronic energy levels at ubiquitous organic/(in)organic interfaces is known to crucially impact device performance. On the prototypical example of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) and a fluorinated derivative, the energies of the ionization and affinity levels of π‐conjugated polymers are revealed to critically depend on the orientation of the polymer backbones with respect to such interfaces. Based on extensive first‐principles calculations, an intuitive electrostatic model is developed that quantitatively traces these observations back to intrinsic intramolecular surface dipoles arising from the π‐electron system and intramolecular polar bonds. The results shed new light on the working principles of organic electronic devices and suggest novel strategies for materials design.
Association study of bromodomain‐containing 1 gene with schizophrenia in Japanese population
Authors: Kushima Itaru , Aleksic Branko , Ikeda Masashi , Yamanouchi Yoshio , Kinoshita Yoko , Ito Yoshihito , Nakamura Yukako , Inada Toshiya , Iwata Nakao , Ozaki Norio
Published: November 2009

Chromosome 22q13 region has been implicated in schizophrenia in several linkage studies. Genes within this locus are therefore promising genetic and biologic candidate genes for schizophrenia if they are expressed in the brain or predicted to have some role in brain development. A recent study reported that bromodomain‐containing 1 gene (BRD1), located in 22q13, showed an association with schizophrenia in a Scottish population. Except for being a putative regulator of transcription, the precise function of BRD1 is not clear; however, expression analysis of BRD1 mRNA revealed widespread expression in mammalian brains. In our study, we explored the association of BRD1 with schizophrenia in a Japanese population (626 cases and 770 controls). In this association analysis, we first examined 10 directly genotyped single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 20 imputed SNPs. Second, we compared the BRD1 mRNA levels between cases and controls using lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from 29 cases and 30 controls. Although the SNP (rs138880) that previously has been associated with schizophrenia showed the same trend in the Japanese population, no significant association was detected between BRD1 and schizophrenia in our study. Similarly, no significant differences in BRD1 mRNA levels in LCLs were detected. Taken together, we could not strongly show that common SNPs in the BRD1 gene account for a substantial proportion of the genetic risk for schizophrenia in the Japanese population.© 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The natural endocast of Taung (Australopithecus africanus): Insights from the unpublished papers of Raymond Arthur Dart
Authors: Falk Dean
Published: November 2009

Dart's 1925 announcement of Australopithecus africanus (Dart: Nature 115 [1925] 195–199) was highly controversial, partly because of an interpretation of the Taung natural endocast that rested on an erroneous identification of the lambdoid suture as the lunate sulcus. Unpublished materials from the University of Witwatersrand Archives (Dart, unpublished material) reveal that Dart reacted to the controversy by: 1) describing and illustrating the entire sulcal pattern on the Taung endocast, in contrast to just two sulcal identifications in 1925, 2) identifying a hypothetical part of the lambdoid suture and revising his description of the lunate sulcus, and 3) bolstering his argument that Taung's brain was advanced by detailing expansions in three significant cortical association areas. Four unpublished illustrations of Dart's identifications for sulci and sutures on the Taung endocast are compared here with those published by Keith (Keith: New discoveries relating to the antiquity of man (1931)), Schepers (Schepers: The endocranial casts of the South African ape‐men. In: Broom R, Schepers GWH, editors. The South African fossil ape‐men; the Australopithecinae [1946] p 155–272), and Falk (Falk: Am J Phys Anthropol 53 [1980] 525–539), and the thorny issue of the location of the lunate sulcus is revisited in light of new information. Archival materials reveal that Dart believed that Taung's brain was reorganized globally rather than in a mosaic manner, and that the shapes of certain cortical association areas showed that Australopithecus was closer to Pithecanthropus than to the living apes. Although a few of Dart's hitherto‐unpublished sulcal identifications, including his revision for the lunate sulcus, were questionable, his claim that the Taung endocast reproduced a shape that was advanced toward a human condition in its prefrontal cortex and caudally protruded occipital lobe was correct. Yrbk Phys Anthropol 52:49–65, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The natural landscape metaphor in information visualization: The role of commonsense geomorphology
Authors: Fabrikant Sara Irina , Montello Daniel R. , Mark David M.
Published: November 2009

The landscape metaphor was one of the first methods used by the information visualization community to reorganize and depict document archives that are not inherently spatial. The motivation for the use of the landscape metaphor is that everyone intuitively understands landscapes. We critically examine the information visualization designer's ontologies for implementing spatialized landscapes with ontologies of the geographic domain held by lay people. In the second half of the article, we report on a qualitative study where we empirically assessed whether the landscape metaphor has explanatory power for users trying to make sense of spatialized views, and if so, in what ways. Specifically, we are interested in uncovering how lay people interpret hills and valleys in an information landscape, and whether their interpretation is congruent with the current scientific understanding of geomorphologic processes. Our empirical results suggest that neither developers' nor lay users' understanding of terrain visualizations is based on universal understanding of the true process that has shaped a natural landscape into hills and valleys, mountains, and canyons. Our findings also suggest that the information landscape metaphor for sense making of a document collection is not self‐evident to lay users, as claimed by information landscape designers. While a deep understanding of geomorphology will probably not be required to successfully use an information landscape, we do suggest that a coherent theory on how people use space will be necessary to produce cognitively useful information visualizations.
A renewable resources paradox?
Authors: Stevens Christian V.
Published: November 2009

It is time to go forward and one option against global warming is to use renewable resources. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Simultaneous RP‐HPLC‐DAD quantification of bromocriptine, haloperidol and its diazepane structural analog in rat plasma with droperidol as internal standard for application to drug‐interaction pharmacokinetics
Authors: Billups Johnique , Jones Cynthia , Jackson Tanise L. , Ablordeppey Seth Y. , Spencer Shawn D.
Published: November 2009

A simple and rapid RP‐HPLC‐DAD method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of the dopamine antagonists haloperidol, its diazepane analog, and the dopamine agonist bromocriptine in rat plasma, to perform pharmacokinetic drug‐interaction studies. Samples were prepared for analysis by acetonitrile (22.0 μg/mL) plasma protein precipitation with droperidol as an internal standard, followed by a double‐step liquid‐liquid extraction with hexane : chloroform (70:30) prior to C‐18 separation. Isocratic elution was achieved using a 0.1% (v/v) trifluoroacetic acid in deionized water, methanol and acetonitrile (45/27.5/27.5, v/v/v). Triple‐wavelength diode‐array detection at the λmaxof 245 nm for haloperidol, 254 nm for the diazepane analog and droperidol, and 240 nm for bromocriptine was carried out. The LLOQ of DAL, HAL, and BCT were 45.0, 56.1, and 150 ng/mL, respectively. In rats, the estimated pharmacokinetic parameters (i.e.,t1/2,CL, andVss) of HAL when administered with DAL and BCT weret1/2= 16.4 min,Vss= 0.541 L/kg for HAL,t1/2= 28.0 min,Vss= 2.00 L/kg for DAL, andt1/2= 24.0 min,Vss= 0.106 L/kg for BCT. The PK parameters for HAL differed significantly from those previously reported, which may be an indication of a drug‐drug interaction. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Routine violence risk assessment in community forensic mental healthcare
Authors: van den Brink Rob H. S. , Hooijschuur Alex , van Os Titus W. D. P. , Savenije Wim , Wiersma Durk
Published: November 2009

We developed a method for periodic monitoring of violence risk, as part of routine community forensic mental healthcare. The feasibility of the method was tested, as well as its predictive validity for violent and risk enhancing behavior in the subsequent months. Participants were 83 clients who received forensic psychiatric home treatment, and six case managers. The method proved feasible and informative. Violent and risk enhancing behavior could be predicted to a reasonable extent (AUC = .77, 95% CI = .70–.85; respectively .76, .70–.82). Dynamic risk factors had an incremental predictive value over static factors in the prediction of violent behavior (OR = 4.30, 1.72–10.73). The professional judgment of the case managers added further predictive power (OR = 2.16, 1.40–3.33), corroborating the structured professional judgment approach. Finally, unmet needs for care of the client were associated with a reduced risk for violent and risk enhancing behavior (OR = .80, 0.69–0.93, and 0.84, 0.72–0.97). This latter finding suggests that in cases with unmet needs the case manager saw opportunities to do something about the risk. Currently we are testing whether using the method actually prevents violence. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The co‐morbidity of personality disorder and clinical syndromes in prisoners
Authors: Coid Jeremy , Moran Paul , Bebbington Paul , Brugha Traolach , Jenkins Rachel , Farrell Mike , Singleton Nicola , Ullrich Simone
Published: November 2009

Objectives Our aim was to examine patterns of Axis II co‐morbidity using data from the national survey of psychiatric morbidity among prisoners in England and Wales.

Methods A one‐in‐five sub‐sample of participants in a survey of psychiatric morbidity among prisoners in England and Wales was interviewed using the Schedule for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry and the Structured Clinical Interview for the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders Axis II personality disorders (PD). Logistic regression analysis was conducted adjusting for confounders of associations with co‐morbid psychopathology disorders, age and gender.

Results The most prevalent Axis II disorders in the sample were anti‐social, paranoid and borderline PD. Following logistic regression, anti‐social and borderline PD demonstrated high levels of co‐morbidity with both Axis I and other Axis II disorders, narcissistic PD with other Axis II, and paranoid and avoidant PD with Axis I disorders.

Conclusions Certain Axis II disorders may increase the risk for lifetime Axis I disorders. Although appropriate statistical procedures reduce the level of Axis II co‐morbidity, some patterns may be artefacts of a diagnostic system encouraging multiple diagnostic categories. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Isolated Cleft in the Posterior Mitral Valve Leaflet: A Congenital Form of Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Wyss Christophè A. , Enseleit Frank , van der Loo Bernd , Grünenfelder Jürg , Oechslin Erwin N. , Jenni Rolf
Published: November 2009

Background

Isolated congenital cleft of the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve is a rare cause of mitral regurgitation (MR). This study describes the clinical, echocardiographic, and intraoperative findings as well as treatment options.

Methods

Adults with an isolated cleft of the posterior mitral valve leaflet diagnosed by transthoracic echocardiography were evaluated with respect to clinical, echocardiographic, preoperative and intraoperative findings, and different surgical strategies.

Results

The prevalence of isolated cleft of the posterior mitral valve leaflet in all patients examined was 0.11% (n = 22 out of 19 320 evaluated echocardiograms); male gender was predominant (73%). Dyspnea on exertion was present in almost all patients with at least moderate regurgitation. The predominant localization of the cleft was within segment P2 (59%), followed by a cleft between P1/P2 (18%). An isolated cleft in segment P3 or segment P1 occurred twice in each segment (n = 2; 9%) and between P2/P3 once (n = 1; 5%). Regurgitation was severe in 50% (n = 11), moderate in 9% (n = 2), mild in 27% (n = 6), and only trivial in 14% (n = 3) of the patients. Surgical treatment involved reconstruction with ring annuloplasty in 45% (n = 10) and replacement in 4.5% (n = 1). A total of 11 patients (50%) with mostly mild or trivial mitral regurgitation were treated medically only.

Conclusion

Two‐dimensional high‐resolution cross‐sectional echocardiography allows the distinct diagnosis of a clefted posterior leaflet, whereas clinical presentation, electrocardiogram, chest x‐ray, and angiography are failing to identify the correct etiology of MR in patients with isolated posterior leaflet cleft mitral valve (IPLCMV). Patients with moderate to severe MR were treated surgically with excellent outcome. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neutrophil Count on Admission Predicts Major In‐hospital Events in Patients with a Non‐ST‐Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Karabinos Ilias , Koulouris Spyridon , Kranidis Athanasios , Pastromas Socrates , Exadaktylos Nikolaos , Kalofoutis Anastasios
Published: November 2009

Background

Inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). In this context we assessed neutrophil count as a predictor of major in‐hospital events in patients admitted for a non‐ST‐segment elevation (NSTE) ACS.

Methods

We measured neutrophils on admission in 160 patients with a NSTE ACS and we correlated their count with the incidence of a combined in‐hospital end point including: cardiac death, acute heart failure, ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction, and recurrent myocardial ischemia.

Results

Patients who had a major in‐hospital event also had a higher neutrophil count (P = 0.02) and higher serum levels of troponin I (P = 0.04). In the univariate logistic regression analysis, in‐hospital major events could be predicted by troponin I > 0.07 ng/mL (odds ratio [OR]: 5.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26–25.32, P = 0.02), white blood cell count > 8650 cells/µL (OR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.03–6.95, P = 0.04), neutrophil count > 6700 cells/µL (OR: 7.74, 95% CI: 2.79–21.47, P < 0.001), and C‐reactive protein > 0.97 mg/dL (OR: 3.56, 95% CI: 1.13–11.19, P = 0.02). However, in multivariate regression, neutrophil count > 6700 cells/µL (OR: 6.52, 95% CI: 1.56–27.22, P = 0.01) was the only independent in‐hospital prognostic factor.

Conclusions

In patients with a NSTE ACS of moderate or high risk, neutrophil count on admission may identify those who are at risk of having an adverse in‐hospital outcome. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is There a Link Between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Atrial Fibrillation?
Authors: Kunz Jeffrey S. , Hemann Brian , Edwin Atwood J. , Jackson Jeffrey , Wu Timothy , Hamm Carolyn
Published: November 2009

Background

Previous studies suggest a potential association between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and atrial fibrillation.

Objective

To explore the potential association between GERD and atrial fibrillation.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective study created from a database containing all health care encounters for patients who received ambulatory care in the National Capitol Area military health care system between January 1, 2001 and October 28, 2007. The study population included all subjects at least 18 years of age (n = 163 627). Our primary outcomes of interest were International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) diagnoses of atrial fibrillation and GERD.

Results

Among 163 627 patients, 7992 (5%) had atrial fibrillation and 47 845 (29%) had GERD. The presence of GERD increased the relative risk (RR) of a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (RR: 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33–1.45). In sensitivity analyses, this relationship persisted after adjustment for cardiovascular disease risk factors (RR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.13–1.25) and diagnoses known to be strongly associated with atrial fibrillation (RR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.02–1.13).

Conclusions

The presence of GERD is associated with an increased risk of a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Statins as Antiarrhythmics: A Systematic Review Part I: Effects on Risk of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Abuissa Hussam , O'Keefe James H. , Bybee Kevin A.
Published: November 2009

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated that statins may possess antiarrhythmic properties in addition to their lipid‐lowering effects.

Methods

Studies which reported the association of statins with the incidence of atrial arrhythmias were identified through a systematic review of published literature.

Results

One randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of 200 patients undergoing cardiac surgery showed that atorvastatin decreased the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation by 61%. Observational studies in patients with stable coronary disease, left ventricular dysfunction, or those undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgery show that statin therapy is associated with an approximately 50% lower rate of atrial fibrillation. Two small randomized trials reported conflicting results: one showing that atorvastatin reduced the recurrence of AF after electrical cardioversion and the other finding that pravastatin did not.

Conclusions

Published data suggests that statins may possess antiarrhythmic properties that reduce the propensity for atrial fibrillation. Most of this data is observational; more randomized, placebo‐controlled trials are needed. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Excellent outcomes with angiographic subsegmentectomy in the treatment of typical hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Iwamoto Shozo , Yamaguchi Taizo , Hongo Osamu , Iwamoto Hideki , Sanefuji Hayato
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND:

The authors successfully adopted an interesting and effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) referred to as angiographic subsegmentectomy (AS). This treatment involved simultaneous embolization of the peripheral feeding artery and the portal vein. The result was that almost all of the HCC and peripheral liver parenchyma developed complete anatomic necrosis.

METHODS:

To determine the effectiveness of this method, the authors retrospectively studied the local recurrence rates of 49 solitary HCCs and the long‐term survival rates of 120 patients with HCC between 2000 and 2008.

RESULTS:

The results indicated that, in 31 small, solitary HCCs (<2.0 cm), the local recurrence rate was only 9.6%; and, in 10 slightly larger HCCs (<3.0 cm), the local recurrence rate was only 10%. The 5‐year, 8‐year, and 10‐year survival rates for patients with stage I and stage I/Child‐Pugh grade A HCC were 74.27% and 77.65%, 53.05% and 51.76%, and 53% and 51.76%, respectively; and the 5‐year, 8‐year, and 10‐year survival rates for patients with stage II and stage II/Child‐Pugh grade A HCC were 66.21% and 71.41%, 39.9% and 39.60%, and 29.92% and 25%), respectively. There were no severe complications.

CONCLUSIONS:

AS should be investigated further as potential first‐line therapy for the treatment of patients with stage I and II HCC. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Subsystem‐Based Theoretical Spectroscopy of Biomolecules and Biomolecular Assemblies
Authors: Neugebauer Johannes
Published: November 2009

The absorption properties of chromophores in biomolecular systems are subject to several fine‐tuning mechanisms. Specific interactions with the surrounding protein environment often lead to significant changes in the excitation energies, but bulk dielectric effects can also play an important role. Moreover, strong excitonic interactions can occur in systems with several chromophores at close distances. For interpretation purposes, it is often desirable to distinguish different types of environmental effects, such as geometrical, electrostatic, polarization, and response (or differential polarization) effects. Methods that can be applied for theoretical analyses of such effects are reviewed herein, ranging from continuum and point‐charge models to explicit quantum chemical subsystem methods for environmental effects. Connections to physical model theories are also outlined. Prototypical applications to optical spectra and excited states of fluorescent proteins, biomolecular photoreceptors, and photosynthetic protein complexes are discussed.
Three‐dimensional polar representation for multispectral fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy
Authors: Leray A. , Spriet C. , Trinel D. , Héliot Laurent
Published: November 2009

Multispectral fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy is a promising and powerful technique for discriminating multiply labeled samples and for detecting molecular interactions inside thick, heterogeneous, and light‐scattering milieu such as tissue. The fast and correct analysis of the spectral and lifetime images constitutes a major challenge, which requires a high level of expertise. We present here a new approach that considerably simplifies this analysis avoiding complex fitting algorithm strategies and permitting a fast and visual graphical representation of the fluorescence lifetimes. By transforming the experimental data from time domain to frequency domain for each spectral channel, we calculate the multispectral polar representation and demonstrate its interest on multiply fluorescent labeled sample. We further apply it on Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) experiments and demonstrate that FRET measurements with a high level of precision can be performed. With addition of emission wavelength as third dimension in the polar representation, autofluorescence emitted by the sample is thus clearly identified. Analysis artifacts induced by the sample or by fitting algorithm choice become then totally inexistent. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Bright lights, clearly visible in the healthcare R&D tunnel, could burn out for lack of funds
Authors: Moos Walter H. , Rurka James E. , Miller Susan M.
Published: November 2009

Bright lights have never been more visible in healthcare R&D, each heralding innovative approaches to disease diagnosis, treatment, or prevention. Unfortunately, this promise of continued healthcare innovation is increasingly threatened by inadequate funding of R&D at many levels: in academic and nonprofit organizations, in small business ventures, and even in large pharmaceutical companies. If we are to continue transforming the practice of medicine, we must ensure that R&D funding levels are made sufficient to leverage recent scientific advances into important new medicines. Thanks to legions of dedicated researchers over the last century, we are making significant progress against major killers. The next generation of drugs and biologics could delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's for long enough to be considered a “cure.” Current experience with pandemic swine flu has acquainted the population‐at‐large with an idea of the magnitude of potential risks created by a “bad bugs, no drugs” scenario. Innovative biomedical R&D has been so successful for so long that many of us who live in the developed world now consider good health to be an entitlement. We simply cannot afford to miss the enormous opportunities now coming into focus, which promise to relieve suffering, reduce morbidity, and eliminate so many needless deaths. Several focal points are recommended as the basis around which we might begin to address these needs at the NIH and FDA, along with small businesses and big pharma. Drug Dev Res 70:457–460, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Novel Hydrogen Peroxide Amperometric Sensor based on Thionin Incorporated onto a Mo6S9‐xIx Nanowire Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Lin Hong , Cheng Huiming , Miao Xiaopei , Papakonstantinou Pagona , Mihailovič Dragan , Li Meixian
Published: November 2009

A simple and enzymeless amperometric sensor for the detection of H2O2 based on a new kind of nanomaterial Mo6S9−xIx (MoSI) nanowires (NWs) was developed. The construction of the sensing platform was based on strong electrostatic interactions between negatively charged MoSI NWs and positively charged thionin molecules. MoSI NWs act as not only a good substrate for the immobilization of redox mediator thionin, but also a promoter for electrocatalysis of H2O2. The fabricated sensor showed a wide linear range over the concentration of H2O2 from 5 μM to 2.8 mM with a measurable lowest detection of 0.8 μM; furthermore, it exhibited good stability and reproducibility.
Simultaneous Determination of Cadmium, Lead, Copper and Mercury Ions Using Organofunctionalized SBA‐15 Nanostructured Silica Modified Graphite–Polyurethane Composite Electrode
Authors: Cesarino Ivana , Cavalheiro Éder T. G. , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: November 2009

A new sensor has been developed for the simultaneous detection of cadmium, lead, copper and mercury, using differential pulse and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV and SWASV) at a graphite–polyurethane composite electrode with SBA‐15 silica organofunctionalized with 2‐benzothiazolethiol as bulk modifier. The heavy metal ions were preconcentrated on the surface of the modified electrode at −1.1 V vs. SCE where they complex with 2‐benzothiazolethiol and are reduced to the metals, and are then reoxidized. Optimum SWASV conditions lead to nanomolar detection limits and simultaneous determination of Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+ and Hg2+ in natural waters was achieved.
Simultaneous Voltammetric Detection of Salsolinol and Uric Acid in the Presence of High Concentration of Ascorbic Acid with Gold Nanoparticles/Functionalized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Composite Film Modified Electrode
Authors: Zhang Shaojun , Xu Minglu , Zhang Yuzhong
Published: November 2009

This work demonstrates gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)/functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (f‐MWCNT) composite film modified gold electrode via covalent‐bonding interaction self‐assembly technique for simultaneous determination of salsolinol (Sal) and uric Acid (UA) in the presence of high concentration of ascorbic acid (AA). In pH 7.0 PBS, the composite film modified electrode exhibits excellent voltammetric response for Sal and UA, while AA shows no voltammetric response. The oxidation peak current is linearly increased with concentrations of Sal from 0.24–11.76 μmol L−1 and of UA from 3.36–96.36 μmol L−1, respectively. The detection limits of Sal and UA is 3.2×10−8 mol L−1 and 1.7×10−7 mol L−1 , respectively.
Iron(III)‐Complexes Engaged in the Biochemical Processes in Seawater. I. Voltammetry of Fe(III)‐Succinate Complexes in Model Aqueous Solution
Authors: Cmuk Petra , Piantanida Ivo , Mlakar Marina
Published: November 2009

Fe3+ complexes with succinic acid, a ligand naturally present in seawater, were investigated in aqueous solutions by square‐wave and cyclic voltammetry. [Fe(suc)2(OH)2] and [Fe(suc)3] were detected at potentials −0.22 and −0.37 V, depending on Csuc in the ranges from 0.01 to 0.07 and 0.1 to 0.5 mol L−1, respectively. Redox processes were irreversible, first with reactant adsorption and second diffusion controlled, both accompanied by chemical step. By UV/Vis spectra formation of these complexes was confirmed and equilibrium constant Fe(suc)2(OH)2⇌Fe(suc)3 calculated (logK2−3=(1.14±0.15) mol−1 L), as well as their perceptible stoichiometry. With NTA as competing ligand, conditional stability constant of [Fe(suc)2(OH)2] complex was calculated (βcond=(3.1±1.3)×1022 mol−1 L).
Bismuth/Polyaniline/Glassy Carbon Electrodes Prepared with Different Protocols for Stripping Voltammetric Determination of Trace Cd and Pb in Solutions Having Surfactants
Authors: Wang Z. M. , Guo H. W. , Liu E. , Yang G. C. , Khun N. W.
Published: November 2009

To improve reproducibility, stability and sensitivity, a bismuth (Bi) thin film was coated on glassy carbon (GC) substrates which surfaces were modified with a porous thin layer of polyaniline (PANI) via multipulse potentiostatic electropolymerization to form Bi/PANI/GC electrodes (Bi/PANI/GCEs). The Bi/PANI/GCEs were used successfully for simultaneous detection and determination of Cd2+ and Pb2+ ions, and various parameters were studied with reference to square wave anodic stripping voltammetric (SWASV) signals. The experimental results depicted that the environment‐friendly Bi/PANI/GCEs had the ability to rapidly monitor trace heavy metals even in the presence of surface‐active compounds.
Electrochemical Dissolution of Silver Nanoparticles and Its Application in Metalloimmunoassay
Authors: Szymanski Mateusz , Turner Anthony P. F. , Porter Robert
Published: November 2009

This work demonstrates the use of silver nanoparticles as a simple electrochemical biolabel to induce 106 signal enhancement. We propose a mechanism of measuring the silver nanoparticles on a specific screen‐printed planar carbon electrode, without the requirement for the harsh oxidant or toxic reagents described in prior‐art for gold sol methods. The possible measurement process was validated with orthogonal techniques such as UV/Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering and by anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV). The findings were utilized to develop a novel electrochemical sandwich immunoassay where the analyte concentration is directly proportional to ASV oxidation peak of silver. This technique in the future is envisaged to form the foundation of a generic Point of Care platform. The assay was applied to cardiac marker: myoglobin with detection limit of 3 ng/mL.