bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ventral visual cortex in humans: Cytoarchitectonic mapping of two extrastriate areas
Authors: Rottschy Claudia , Eickhoff Simon B. , Schleicher Axel , Mohlberg Hartmurt , Kujovic Milenko , Zilles Karl , Amunts Katrin
Published: February 2007

The extrastriate visual cortex forms a complex system enabling the analysis of visually presented objects. To gain deeper insight into the anatomical basis of this system, we cytoarchitectonically mapped the ventral occipital cortex lateral to BA 18/V2 in 10 human postmortem brains. The anatomical characterization of this part of the ventral stream was performed by examination of cell‐body‐stained histological sections using quantitative cytoarchitectonic analysis. First, the gray level index (GLI) was measured in the ventral occipital lobe. Cytoarchitectonic borders, i.e., significant changes in the cortical lamination pattern, were then identified using an observer‐independent algorithm based on multivariate analysis of GLI profiles. Two distinct cytoarchitectonic areas (hOC3v, hOC4v) were characterized in the ventral extrastriate cortex lateral to BA 18/V2. Area hOC3v was found in the collateral sulcus. hOC4v was located in this sulcus and also covered the fusiform gyrus in more occipital sections. Topographically, these areas thus seem to represent the anatomical substrates of functionally defined areas, VP/V3v and V4/V4v. Following histological analysis, the delineated cytoarchitectonic areas were transferred to 3D reconstructions of the respective postmortem brains, which in turn were spatially normalized to the Montreal Neurological Institute reference space. A probabilistic map was generated for each area which describes how many brains had a representation of this area in a particular voxel. These maps can now be used to identify the anatomical correlates of functional activations observed in neuroimaging experiments to enable a more informed investigation into the many open questions regarding the organization of the human visual cortex. Hum Brain Mapp 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationship between task‐related gamma oscillations and BOLD signal: New insights from combined fMRI and intracranial EEG
Authors: Lachaux Jean‐Philippe , Fonlupt Pierre , Kahane Philippe , Minotti Lorella , Hoffmann Dominique , Bertrand Olivier , Baciu Monica
Published: February 2007

Cognitive neuroscience relies on two sets of techniques to map the neural networks underlying cognition in humans: recordings of either regional metabolic changes (fMRI or PET) or fluctuations in the neural electromagnetic fields (EEG and MEG). Despite major advances in the last few years, an explicit linkage between the two is still missing and the neuroimaging community faces two complementary but unrelated sets of functional descriptions of the human brain. Such an explicit framework, linking the two approaches in potentially complex cognitive tasks and in a variety of brain regions would permit to combine them into fine spatio‐temporally‐grained human brain mapping procedures. We combined fMRI and intra‐cranial EEG recordings of the same epileptic patients during a semantic decision task and found a close spatial correspondence between regions of fMRI activations and recording sites showing EEG energy modulations in the gamma range (>40 Hz). Our findings further support previous findings that gamma band modulations co‐localize with BOLD variations and also indicate that fMRI may be used as a constraint to improve source reconstruction of gamma band EEG responses. Hum Brain Mapp, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Integrated PET/CT system for staging and surveillance of skull base tumors
Authors: Gil Ziv , Even‐Sapir Einat , Margalit Nevo , Fliss Dan M.
Published: February 2007

Background.

The utility of preoperative and postoperative whole body integrated positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET‐CT) scanning for staging and follow‐up in patients with skull base tumors is undetermined.

Methods.

We prospectively evaluated PET‐CT findings in 47 patients using 57 scans. Most (35/47, 75%) had anterior skull base tumors and the majority (74%) had advanced‐stage (III–IV) disease.

Results.

The scans showed high sensitivity for detection of various types of malignant tumors and provided 39 items of additional information, changing the clinical staging and management of 11 patients (23%). Recurrence of primary tumors was detected in 8 patients, positive regional (neck) metastases in 3, and distant metastases in 3. The positive uptake was due to osteoradionecrosis in 2 other patients. The sensitivity of PET‐CT was 0.77 and the specificity was 0.81 (0.83 positive predictive value and 0.76 negative predictive value).

Conclusions.

PET‐CT provides accurate data on anatomy, tumor staging, and early disease recurrence in the skull base. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Survival in patients with synovial sarcoma of the head and neck: Association with tumor location, size, and extension
Authors: Harb William J. , Luna Mario A. , Patel Shreyaskumar R. , Ballo Matthew T. , Roberts Dianna B. , Sturgis Erich M.
Published: February 2007

Background.

The medical literature on synovial sarcoma (SS) of the head and neck region is limited. Thus, we determined whether clinical characteristics and treatment were associated with recurrence and survival rates in patients with SS of the head and neck.

Methods.

We retrospectively identified patients with a pathologic diagnosis of SS of the head and neck at our institution (a large tertiary comprehensive cancer center) and compared recurrence and survival rates by clinical characteristics and treatment.

Results.

Forty patients with SS of the head and neck were identified from 1945 to 2004 (first case in 1968), representing <5% of all head and neck sarcomas seen at our institution during this time period. Twenty‐three patients (58%) had the monophasic histologic subtype, 15 (38%) biphasic, and 2 unspecified. Most patients were male (73%), with a median age of 29years. SS tumors were most commonly located in the neck (60%); thus, the most common symptoms were a neck mass and neck pain. No patients reported a history of radiation exposure. Higher disease‐specific and overall survival rates were associated with upper aerodigestive tract location, tumors of ≤5 cm, and tumors did not extend into bone. Patients treated with surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy had higher survival and lower recurrence rates than did those treated with surgery alone or a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. This difference was not significant, and the subgroups were small, with substantial confounding by adverse prognostic factors.

Conclusions.

SS of the head and neck is extremely rare, and our results should be viewed with caution given the relatively small group size and treatment over a 36‐year period. Survival rates were associated with tumor location, size, and extension. Treatment of SS of the head and neck should be directed toward complete surgical resection. Given the known sensitivity of SS to contemporary chemotherapy, a multimodality approach should be considered in the perioperative setting, especially in high risk patients. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Driving behaviors in patients with head and neck cancer during and after cancer treatment: A preliminary report
Authors: Yuen Hon K. , Gillespie Marion B. , Day Terry A. , Morgan Larissa , Burik Jerry K.
Published: February 2007

Background.

The purpose of this study was to explore the driving behaviors of head and neck cancer patients during and after cancer therapy.

Methods.

Eighty‐three patients completed a questionnaire related to driving behaviors.

Results.

The survey revealed that 67.5% of respondents reported that they drove less or stopped driving during cancer therapy, and 26.5% continued to drive less or stopped driving after the completion of cancer therapy. Respondents typically reported greater concern about driving and relied more on other people for transportation during and after cancer therapy than before their diagnosis. Results indicated that the odds for self‐restricted driving after cancer therapy were higher for those who were more concerned about driving under challenging driving situations and perceived impaired cognitive function that affected their driving ability.

Conclusions.

These results suggest that perceived impairment resulting from cancer therapy has a significant impact on head and neck cancer patients' driving behaviors. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Reversal of inflammation‐associated dihydrodiol dehydrogenases (AKR1C1 and AKR1C2) overexpression and drug resistance in nonsmall cell lung cancer cells by wogonin and chrysin
Authors: Wang Hao‐Wei , Lin Chin‐Ping , Chiu Jen‐Hwey , Chow Kuan‐Chih , Kuo Kuang‐Tai , Lin Chen‐Sung , Wang Liang‐Shun
Published: February 2007

Dihydrodiol dehydrogenase (DDH) is a member of the aldo‐keto reductases superfamily (AKR1C1–AKR1C4), which plays central roles in the metabolism of steroid hormone, prostaglandin and xenobiotics. We have previously detected overexpression of DDH as an indicator of poor prognosis and chemoresistance in human non‐small lung cancer (NSCLC). We also found DDH expression to be closely related to chronic inflammatory conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the links between inflammation, DDH expression and drug resistance in NSCLC cells. We showed that pro‐inflammatory mediators including interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) could induce AKR1C1/1C2 expression in NSCLC cells and increase cellular resistance to cisplatin and adriamycin. This effect was nullified by Safingol, a protein kinase C inhibitor. Moreover, the expression of AKR1C1/1C2 was inversely correlated to NBS1 and apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF). We also showed that IL‐6‐induced AKR1C1/1C2 expression and drug resistance were inhibited by wogonin and chrysin, which are major flavonoids in Scutellaria baicalensis, a widely used traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. In conclusion, this study demonstrated novel links of pro‐inflammatory signals, AKR1C1/1C2 expression and drug resistance in NSCLC. The protein kinase C pathway may play an important role in this process. Overexpression of AKR1C1/1C2 may serve as a marker of chemoresistance. Further studies are warranted to evaluate wogonin and chrysin as a potential adjuvant therapy for drug‐resistant NSCLC, especially for those with AKR1C1/1C2 overexpression. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CEBPβ, JunD and c‐Jun contribute to the transcriptional activation of the metastasis‐associated C4.4A gene
Authors: Fries Frank , Nazarenko Irina , Hess Jochen , Claas Andreas , Angel Peter , Zöller Margot
Published: February 2007

The glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐anchored molecule C4.4A, which shares structural features with uPAR, is frequently expressed on carcinomas with upregulated expression during tumor progression. Moreover, rare expression on nontransformed epithelial cells is strongly increased during tissue remodeling, e.g., during wound healing. This strictly regulated expression prompted us to define transcriptional activation of the C4.4A gene. C4.4A transcription was analyzed in 2 syngenic rat tumor cell lines with low or high metastatic potential, respectively. Though genomic C4.4A DNA was present in both lines, C4.4A mRNA and transcription of a reporter construct containing the C4.4A promoter was only observed in the metastasizing subline. Deletions and point mutations in the C4.4A promoter‐driven reporter construct revealed that activation of the TATA‐less, GC‐rich core promoter (−1 to −50 bp) does not suffice to initiate transcription that requires coactivation of a proximal response element (−71 to −88 bp) and can be further increased by more distal response elements (−89 to −133 bp). Mobility‐shift and cotransfection studies showed that Sp3 binding enhances C4.4A transcription, whereas potential Sp1 binding sites were ineffective. C4.4A transcription essentially requires C/EBPβ binding to a TRE/CCAAT composite element (−71 to −88 bp) as measured by ChIP assay. C4.4A transcription is strikingly enhanced by cotransfection with JunD or c‐Jun, such that C4.4A is most strongly transcribed even in the C4.4A‐negative tumor cell line after cotransfection with C/EBPβ plus JunD or c‐Jun. Thus, upregulation of C/EBPβ during tumor progression and wound repair may well provide a sufficient trigger for transcription of the C4.4A gene. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulatory T‐cell function of adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma cells
Authors: Yano Hiroki , Ishida Takashi , Inagaki Atsushi , Ishii Toshihiko , Kusumoto Shigeru , Komatsu Hirokazu , Iida Shinsuke , Utsunomiya Atae , Ueda Ryuzo
Published: February 2007

Adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) patients are highly immunocompromised, but the underlying mechanism responsible for this state remains obscure. Recent studies demonstrated that FOXP3, which is a master control gene of naturally occurring regulatory T (Treg) cells, is expressed in the tumor cells from a subset of patients with ATLL. Since most ATLL cells express both CD4 and CD25, these tumors might originate from CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells, based on their phenotypic characteristics. However, whether ATLL cells actually function as Treg cells has not yet been clearly demonstrated. Here, we show that ATLL cells from a subset of patients are not only hypo‐responsive to T‐cell receptor‐mediated activation, but also suppress the proliferation of autologous CD4+ non‐ATLL cells. Furthermore, ATLL cells from this subset of patients secrete only small amounts of IFN‐γ, and suppress IFN‐γ production by autologous CD4+ non‐ATLL cells. These are the first data showing that ATLL cells from a subset of patients function as Treg cells in an autologous setting. The present study provides novel insights into understanding the immunopathogenesis of ATLL, i.e., how HTLV‐1‐infected cells can survive in the face of host immune responses. It also adds to our understanding of ATLL patients' severely immunocompromised state. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Breast tumours following combined hormone replacement therapy express favourable prognostic factors
Authors: Borgquist Signe , Anagnostaki Lola , Jirström Karin , Landberg Göran , Manjer Jonas
Published: February 2007

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between different types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and risk of specific breast cancer subgroups. A population‐based prospective cohort study including 12,583 peri‐ or postmenopausal women were followed using record‐linkage with national cancer registries. During an average follow‐up of 4.5 years, 332 cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed. Tumour samples were available from 283 cases. These tumours were re‐evaluated according to histological type, grade, and mitotic index. Evaluation of tumours included estrogen and progesterone receptor status (ERα, ERβ and PgR), as well as expression of Ki67, HER2, cyclin D1 and p27. The incidence of breast cancer in current users of combined HRT (CHRT) was significantly higher than in non‐users. The difference corresponded to an adjusted relative risk (95% confidence interval) of 3.01 (2.35–3.84) as obtained using a Cox's proportional hazards analysis. CHRT was associated with lobular tumours (3.48:1.99–6.10), grade 1 tumours (4.46:2.79–7.13) and tumours with a low mitotic index (4.35:2.99–6.34). CHRT was not related to any specific subgroup in terms of ERα‐, ERβ‐ or PgR‐expression. CHRT was associated with low proliferating tumours, defined by the Ki67 index (3.58:2.60–4.93), HER2 amplified tumours (4.40:1.93–10.06), low expression of the oncogene cyclin D1 (3.14:2.32–4.23) and high expression of the tumour suppressor gene p27 (3.47:2.40–5.01). Use of estrogen‐alone HRT (ERT) was not associated with any statistically significant risk of breast cancer. We conclude that the use of CHRT is associated with an increased incidence of breast tumours with comparatively favourable prognostic factors. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibody response against NY‐ESO‐1 in CHP‐NY‐ESO‐1 vaccinated patients
Authors: Kawabata Ryohei , Wada Hisashi , Isobe Midori , Saika Takashi , Sato Shuichiro , Uenaka Akiko , Miyata Hiroshi , Yasuda Takushi , Doki Yuichiro , Noguchi Yuji , Kumon Hiromi , Tsuji Kazuhide , Iwatsuki Keiji , Shiku Hiroshi , Ritter Gerd , Murphy Roger , Hoffman Eric , Old Lloyd J. , Monden Morito , Nakayama Eiichi
Published: February 2007

NY‐ESO‐1 specific humoral responses are frequently observed in patients with various types of NY‐ESO‐1 antigen expressing tumors. In a large proportion of NY‐ESO‐1 antibody‐positive patients of NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CD8 T‐cells can also be detected suggesting that monitoring of the NY‐ESO‐1 specific humoral immune response may be a relevant and more practical surrogate for estimating the overall immune response against NY‐ESO‐1 in clinical vaccine studies. We have immunized 9 cancer patients with full length NY‐ESO‐1 protein formulated with cholesterol‐bearing hydrophobized pullulan (CHP‐NY‐ESO‐1) and investigated the humoral immune responses against NY‐ESO‐1. Seven patients were NY‐ESO‐1 antibody‐negative and 2 patients were positive prior to vaccination. Vaccination with CHP‐NY‐ESO‐1 resulted in the induction or increase of NY‐ESO‐1 antibody responses in all 9 patients immunized. Epitope analysis revealed 5 regions in the NY‐ESO‐1 protein molecule that were recognized by antibodies induced after vaccination. The 5 regions were also recognized by antibodies present in nonvaccinated, NY‐ESO‐1 antibody‐positive cancer patients. A peptide spanning amino acids 91–108 was recognized in 6 out of 9 vaccinated patients and in 8 out of 9 nonvaccinated, sero‐positive patients, being the most dominant antigenic epitope in NY‐ESO‐1 for antibody recognition in cancer patients. In conclusion, we showed that CHP‐NY‐ESO‐1 protein vaccination had a potent activity for inducing humoral immune responses against NY‐ESO‐1 antigen in cancer patients. The antigenic epitopes recognized by antibodies in the vaccinated patients were similar to those recognized in cancer patients with spontaneous humoral immunity against NY‐ESO‐1. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biaxial mechanical evaluation of cholecyst‐derived extracellular matrix: A weakly anisotropic potential tissue engineered biomaterial
Authors: Coburn James C. , Brody Sarah , Billiar Kristen L. , Pandit Abhay
Published: February 2007

A new acellular, natural, biodegradable matrix has been discovered in the cholecyst‐derived extracellular matrix (CEM). This matrix is rich in collagen and contains several other macromolecules useful in tissue remodeling. In this study, the principal material axes, collagen fiber orientations, and biaxial mechanical properties in a physiological loading regime were characterized. Fiber direction was determined by polarized light microscopy, and the principal axes and degree of anisotropy were determined mechanically. Macroscopic equibiaxial strain tests were then conducted on preconditioned specimens. While 13% of the area of CEM contains collagen fibers oriented between 50° and 60° from the neck‐fundus axis, the principal material axis was oriented 63° ± 13.7°, with an aspect ratio of 0.11 ± 0.06, indicating a weak anisotropy in that direction. Under biaxial loading, CEM exhibited a large toe region followed by an exponential rise in stress in both principal and perpendicular axis directions, similar to other materials currently under research. There was no significant difference between the biaxial stress–strain profile and the burst stress–strain profile. The results demonstrate that CEM is weakly anisotropic and it has the ability to support large strains across a physiological loading regime. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Discrete crosslinked fibrin microthread scaffolds for tissue regeneration
Authors: Cornwell Kevin G. , Pins George D.
Published: February 2007

In this study, we report on the development of discrete fibrin microthreads as well as novel scaffolds composed of arrays of fibrin threads. These scaffolds exhibit mechanical properties that are significantly greater than fibrin gels and cellular responses suggesting that the materials are conducive to the development of organized, aligned tissues. Fibrin microthreads were produced by coextruding solutions of 70 mg/mL fibrinogen and 6 U/mL thrombin through small diameter polyethylene tubing. Uncrosslinked fibrin microthreads averaged 55–65 μm in hydrated diameter and achieved ultimate tensile strengths approaching 4.5 MPa. The strengths and stiffnesses of the microthreads were approximately twofold greater when the materials were treated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Although UV crosslinking attenuated fibroblast proliferation, uncrosslinked fibrin microthreads supported fibroblast attachment, proliferation, and alignment, suggesting that they represent a viable biomaterial for the aligned regeneration of tissues. Because of the physiologic roles of fibrin matrices in the early phase of wound healing, we anticipate that these fibrin‐based microthreads will direct the spatially and temporally complex processes of cell‐mediated tissue ingrowth and regeneration. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Influence of TiO2 and Ag2O addition on tricalcium phosphate ceramics
Authors: Seeley Zachary , Bandyopadhyay Amit , Bose Susmita
Published: February 2007

Degradation of implanted ceramics allows for bone in‐growth and eventual replacement with natural tissue. Calcium phosphate‐based materials have gained the most significant attention because of their excellent biocompatibility and compositional similarities to natural bone. Adding various dopants to these ceramics significantly influences critical properties. In this study, tricalcium phosphate (TCP) compacts were fabricated via uniaxial compression with four compositions: (i) pure TCP, (ii) TCP with 1.0 wt % TiO2, (iii) TCP with 0.5 wt % Ag2O, and (iv) ternary of TCP and 1.0 wt % TiO2, and 0.5 wt % Ag2O. These compacts were sintered at 1250°C for 4 h to obtain dense ceramic structures. Phase analyses were carried out using an X‐ray diffractometer. The presence of TiO2 in TCP improved densification and increased compression strength from 70 (±25) to 145 (±40) MPa. The ternary composition had the highest density and compression strength of 180 (±15) MPa. Human osteoblast cell growth behavior was studied using an osteoprecursor cell line (OPC 1) to assure that the biocompatibility of these ceramics was not altered due to the dopants. For long‐term biodegradation studies, density, weight change, surface microstructure, and uniaxial compression strength were measured as a function of time in a simulated body fluid (SBF). Weight gain in SBF correlated strongly with precipitation viewed in the inter‐connected pores of the samples. After 3 months in SBF, a 35% drop in compression strength was noticed for pure TCP, but for doped compositions, no strength loss was noticed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Micromechanical bending of single collagen fibrils using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Yang Lanti , van der Werf Kees O. , Koopman Bart F.J.M. , Subramaniam Vinod , Bennink Martin L. , Dijkstra Pieter J. , Feijen Jan
Published: February 2007

A new micromechanical technique was developed to study the mechanical properties of single collagen fibrils. Single collagen fibrils, the basic components of the collagen fiber, have a characteristic highly organized structure. Fibrils were isolated from collagenous materials and their mechanical properties were studied with atomic force microscopy (AFM). In this study, we determined the Young's modulus of single collagen fibrils at ambient conditions from bending tests after depositing the fibrils on a poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) substrate containing micro‐channels. Force‐indentation relationships of freely suspended collagen fibrils were determined by loading them with a tip‐less cantilever. From the deflection‐piezo displacement curve, force‐indentation curves could be deduced. With the assumption that the behavior of collagen fibrils can be described by the linear elastic theory of isotropic materials and that the fibrils are freely supported at the rims, a Young's modulus of 5.4 ± 1.2 GPa was determined. After cross‐linking with glutaraldehyde, the Young's modulus of a single fibril increases to 14.7 ± 2.7 GPa. When it is assumed that the fibril would be fixed at the ends of the channel the Young's moduli of native and cross‐linked collagen fibrils are calculated to be 1.4 ± 0.3 GPa and 3.8 ± 0.8 GPa, respectively. The minimum and maximum values determined for native and glutaraldehyde cross‐linked collagen fibrils represent the boundaries of the Young's modulus. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Value of sonography for follow‐up of mediastinal lymphadenopathy in children with tuberculosis
Authors: Bosch‐Marcet Joaquim , Serres‐Créixams Xavier , Borrás‐Pérez Victoria , Coll‐Sibina Maria Teresa , Guitet‐Juliá Montserrat , Coll‐Rosell Elena
Published: February 2007

Purpose.

To assess the clinical value of sonography for the follow‐up of mediastinal lymphadenopathy in children diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB).

Methods.

We conducted a retrospective review of the medical records of 21 children (9 boys, 12 girls) with a mean age of 6 years (range, 7.4 months to 18 years) who had a positive intradermal tuberculin skin test. All patients underwent thorough history‐taking, physical examination, frontal and lateral chest radiographs, and sonographic study of the mediastinum. The mediastinum was accessed through the suprasternal and left parasternal approaches. The presence of 1 or more masses with an ovoid or round shape and hypoechoic appearance in the anterior or middle mediastinum was recorded. A comparison was made between the results of the sonographic examination of the mediastinum before administration of anti‐TB agents and after 3 months of treatment.

Results.

Pulmonary radiographic findings were suggestive of TB in 17 patients and were uncertain in 4 patients. Sonographic examination, however, detected mediastinal lymphadenopathy in all patients. A comparison of pretreatment mediastinal sonograms with those obtained after 3 months of anti‐TB treatment showed a marked reduction of lymph node involvement in 17 patients (80.9%). In the remaining 4 patients, mediastinal lymphadenopathy was still present.

Conclusion.

Mediastinal sonography appears to be a valuable tool for the diagnosis of TB and in the monitoring of response to treatment in children. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Which observations from the complete blood cell count predict mortality for hospitalized patients?
Authors: Kho Abel N , Hui Siu , Kesterson Joe G. , McDonald Clement J.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND:

Information on the prognostic utility of the admission complete blood count (CBC) and differential count is lacking.

OBJECTIVE:

To identify independent predictors of mortality from the varied number and morphology of cells in the complete blood count defined as a hemogram, automated five cell differential count and manual differential count.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort study and chart review.

SETTING:

Wishard Memorial Hospital, a large urban primary care hospital.

PATIENTS:

A total of 46,522 adult inpatients admitted over 10 years to Wishard Memorial Hospital—from January 1993 through December 2002.w

INTERVENTION:

None.

MEASUREMENTS:

Thirty‐day mortality measured from day of admission as determined by electronic medical records and Indiana State death records.

RESULTS:

Controlling for age and sex, the multivariable regression model identified 3 strong independent predictors of 30‐day mortality—nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs), burr cells, and absolute lymphocytosis—each of which was associated with a 3‐fold increase in the risk of death within 30 days. The presence of nucleated RBCs was associated with a 30‐day mortality rate of 25.5% across a range of diagnoses, excluding patients with sickle‐cell disease and obstetric patients, for whom NRBCs were not associated with increased mortality. Having burr cells was associated with a mortality rate of 27.3% and was found most commonly in patients with renal or liver failure. Absolute lymphocytosis predicted poor outcome in patients with trauma and CNS injury.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among patients admitted to Wishard Memorial Hospital, the presence of nucleated RBCs, burr cells, or absolute lymphocytosis at admission was each independently associated with a 3‐fold increase in risk of death within 30 days of admission. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:5–12. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Third‐year medical students' evaluation of hospitalist and nonhospitalist faculty during the inpatient portion of their pediatrics clerkships
Authors: Geskey Joseph M. , Kees‐Folts Deborah
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND:

Although the data on the impact of hospitalist programs on the inpatient education of medical students during their internal medicine clerkships are favorable, the data is limited on the inpatient educational experience of medical students during their pediatric clerkships. The purpose of this study was to compare the evaluations of hospitalist and nonhospitalist faculty of third‐year medical students during their inpatient pediatrics rotations.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective study of the evaluations of third‐year medical student of hospitalist and nonhospitalist faculty during their inpatient pediatrics rotations at Penn State Children's Hospital from July 1999 through September 2000. Using a 4‐point scale, students gave an overall evaluation and also rated the hospitalist and nonhospitalist faculty on effectiveness as teachers, effectiveness as pediatricians, and effectiveness as student advocates. Using the same 4‐point scale, students rated the following aspects of the rotation: ward rounds, sick newborn care, well newborn care, outpatient clinics, private physician's office, noon conferences, and morning report.

RESULTS:

A total of 67 students rotated on the pediatric inpatient service during the study period; 35 students rotated with 2 hospitalists, and 32 students rotated with 8 nonhospitalists. All 67 students (100%) submitted an evaluation. The hospitalists received higher scores than nonhospitalists on effectiveness as teachers (3.87 vs. 2.91; P < 0.001), effectiveness as pediatricians (3.94 vs. 3.25; P < .001), effectiveness as student advocates (3.76 vs. 2.97; P < .001), and in the overall evaluation (3.93 vs. 3.06; P < .001). Ward rounds were rated as more beneficial when conducted by hospitalists then when conducted by nonhospitalists (3.15 vs. 2.58; P < .006).

CONCLUSIONS:

Hospitalists were perceived by third‐year medical students as providing more effective teaching and more satisfying overall rotations than were nonhospitalists during the inpatient portion of the students' pediatric clerkships. Further studies that examine inpatient systems, particularly as they relate to the acquisition of knowledge and the development of effective communication skills in medical learners, are needed. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:17–22. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
In‐room display of day and time patient is anticipated to leave hospital: A “discharge appointment”
Authors: Manning Dennis M. , Tammel Karyl J. , Blegen R. Nicole , Larson Lori A. , Steffens Fay L. , Rosenman David J. , Mundell William C. , Naessens James M. , Resar Roger K. , Huddleston Jeanne M.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND:

We learned from a focus group that many patients find discharge to be one of the least satisfying elements of the hospital experience. Patients cited insufficient communication about the day and time of the impending discharge as a cause of dissatisfaction.

OBJECTIVE:

In partnership with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Improvement Action Network collaborative, we tested the practicality of an in‐room “discharge appointment” (DA) display.

SETTING AND PATIENTS:

Eight inpatient care units in 2 hospitals at an academic medical center (Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN).

INTERVENTION:

DA displayed on a specially designed bedside dry‐erase board.

MEASUREMENTS:

The primary outcome was the proportion of discharged patients who had been given a DA, including same‐day DAs. Secondary outcomes were (1) the proportion of DAs scheduled before the actual dismissal day and (2) the timeliness of the actual departure compared with the DA.

RESULTS:

During the 4‐month period, 2046 patients were discharged. Of those, 1256 patients (61%) were given a posted DA, of which 576 (46%) were scheduled at least a day in advance and 752 (60%) departed from the care unit within 30 minutes of the appointed time.

CONCLUSIONS:

With a program for in‐room display of a DA in various hospital units, more than half the patients had a DA set, and most of the DA patients departed on time. Further investigation is needed to determine the effect of DAs on patient and provider satisfaction. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:13–16. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
A breakthrough in women's bargaining power: the impact of microcredit
Authors: Osmani Lutfun N. Khan
Published: February 2007

This paper attempts to test empirically whether access to micro‐credit can help poor rural women to improve their bargaining power within the household. The empirical measures of women's bargaining power, or empowerment, used in this paper are underpinned by a bargaining model of the household. By using survey data on the borrowers of the Grameen Bank of Bangladesh and by adopting a methodology that allows for the possibility of self‐selection, this study shows that targeted micro‐credit can have a significantly positive effect on women's bargaining power within the household. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of different procedures to map reference evapotranspiration using geographical information systems and regression‐based techniques
Authors: Vicente‐Serrano S. M. , Lanjeri S. , López‐Moreno J. I.
Published: February 2007

This paper compares different procedures for mapping reference evapotranspiration (ETo) by means of regression‐based techniques and geographical information systems (GIS). ETo is calculated following the method of Hargreaves (HG) from a dense database of meteorological stations in the northernmost semi‐arid region of Europe, the Ebro valley. The HG method requires the calculation of estimates of extraterrestrial radiation (Ra). We calculated this parameter using two approaches: (1) the common approach that assumes a planar surface and determines the parameter as a function of latitude and (2) using a digital terrain model (DTM) and GIS modelling. The maps were made on a monthly basis using both approaches. We also compared possible propagations of errors in the map calculations for maps derived from modelled layers of maximum and minimum temperatures with those modelled using previously determined local ETo calculations. We demonstrate that calculations of Ra from a DTM and GIS modelling provide a more realistic spatial distribution of ETo than those derived by only considering latitude. It is also preferable to model in advance the variables involved in the calculation of ETo (temperature and Ra) and to subsequently calculate ETo by means of layer algebra in the GIS rather than directly model the local ETo calculations. The obtained maps are useful for the purposes of agriculture and ecological and water resources management in the study area. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Evaluation of the urban effect of long‐term relative humidity and the separation of temperature and water vapor effects
Authors: Um Hyang‐Hee , Ha Kyung‐Ja , Lee Sun‐Seon
Published: February 2007

Monthly relative humidity values for the period between 1905 and 2003 for Busan and Seoul were used to quantify the impact of urbanization on changes in the humidity in an urban area. In this study, the urban effect on observed relative humidity was separated into water vapor and temperature effects using observations in large urban areas and rural sites. The double‐station Evaluation (DSE) is a method that directly compares an urban (Busan) with rural (Miryang) sites. To estimate the urban effect in Seoul, the intermediate (Incheon) and rural (Suwon) stations were used for multistation evaluation (MSE) method. To quantify the urban effect, we assumed that observations in urban areas were influenced by macro‐scale, local and urban scales. Observations from the rural sites did not include the influence of urban areas. Natural variability in the urban areas was derived by assuming that climatic conditions changed simultaneously in the early period of data collection. The sum of the temperature and water vapor effects might not be responsible for the total urban effect owing to errors.

The relative humidity of Seoul has continuously decreased over the long term except for a few short periods, and the urban effect in Seoul increased with the temperature effect in the 1970s. In Busan, the urban effect increased rapidly with the water vapor effect after the early 1980s. However, urban effects in both areas have decreased in the past few years. This might be due to changes in land‐use as urbanization developed. The influence of water vapor has decreased after dramatic increases in the 1970s and 1980s, which may be due to the production of excess water vapor due to lifestyle changes. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Joint degeneration following closed intraarticular fracture in the mouse knee: A model of posttraumatic arthritis
Authors: Furman Bridgette D. , Strand Jens , Hembree W. Chad , Ward Benjamin D. , Guilak Farshid , Olson Steven A.
Published: February 2007

Posttraumatic arthritis is one of the most frequent causes of disability following joint trauma. The objective of this study was to develop a model of a closed articular fracture in the mouse knee joint to quantify the temporal sequence of joint degeneration in a model of posttraumatic arthritis. Closed intraarticular fractures were created in the tibial plateau of adult mice (C57BL/6) using a computer‐controlled materials testing system and a custom‐built indenter tip. Tibial plateau fractures were classified and imaged over time using high‐resolution digital radiography. Animals were sacrificed at 2, 4, 8, and 50 weeks following fracture, and the experimental and contralateral control limbs were harvested for histology and micro‐computed tomography (microCT) analysis. By radiographic analysis, tibial plateau fractures closely resembled clinical fractures. More complex and comminuted fractures correlated to significantly higher fracture energies. Histologic analysis demonstrated progressive joint degeneration as measured by a modified Mankin scale, with fibrillation and loss of proteoglycan in the articular cartilage. Subchondral bone thickening was also observed in experimental joints. The induction of a closed intraarticular fracture of the mouse tibial plateau generated a reproducible and clinically relevant joint injury that progressed to osteoarthritis‐like changes by histologic and microCT evaluations. The ability to induce joint degeneration without an osteotomy or open arthrotomy provides a valuable new model for studying the natural sequelae of posttraumatic arthritis. Notably, the use of a murine model will facilitate the use of genetically modified animals for the investigation of specific genes implicated in the pathology of posttraumatic arthritis. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:578–592, 2007
Age‐related factors affecting the postyield energy dissipation of human cortical bone
Authors: Nyman Jeffry S. , Roy Anuradha , Tyler Jerrod H. , Acuna Rae L. , Gayle Heather J. , Wang Xiaodu
Published: February 2007

The risk of bone fracture depends in part on tissue quality, not just the size and mass. This study assessed the postyield energy dissipation of cortical bone in tension as a function of age and composition. Specimens were prepared from tibiae of human cadavers in which male and female donors were divided into two age groups: middle aged (51 to 56 years, n = 9) and elderly (72 to 90 years, n = 8). By loading, unloading, and reloading a specimen with rest periods inserted in between, tensile properties at incremental strain levels were assessed. In addition, postyield toughness was estimated and partitioned as plastic strain energy related to permanent deformation, released elastic strain energy related to stiffness loss, and hysteresis energy related to viscous behavior. Porosity, mineral and collagen content, and collagen crosslinks of each specimen were also measured to determine the micro‐ and ultrastructural properties of the tissue. Age affected all the energy terms plus strength but not elastic stiffness. The postyield energy terms were correlated with porosity, pentosidine (a marker of nonenzymatic crosslinks), and collagen content, all of which varied significantly with age. General linear models suggested that pentosidine concentration and collagen content provided the best explanation of the age‐related decrease in the postyield energy dissipation. Among them, pentosidine concentration had the greatest contribution to plastic strain energy and was the best explanatory variable of damage accumulation. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:646–655, 2007
Flandrian sea‐level changes in the Fenland. II: Tendencies of sea‐level movement, altitudinal changes, and local and regional factors
Authors: Shennan Ian
Published: February 2007

Stratigraphic, micropalaeontologic and radiocarbon data show that since c. 6500 BP the Fenland has been influenced by 7 periods of positive sea‐level tendencies and by 6 periods of negative sea‐level tendencies. Despite the numerous problems associated with the reconstruction of past altitudes of sea level the periods of positive sea‐level tendencies were clearly characterised by a rise in sea level, the development of transgressive overlaps and a landward movement of the coastline. The periods of negative sea‐level tendencies were characterised by the development of regressive overlaps, a seaward movement of the coastline and a reduced or negative rate of sea‐level rise. The various altitudinal errors do not permit the incontrovertible distinction of periods of falling sea levels. All changes within the Fenland were not synchronous and local factors influenced the exact nature of each sea‐level indicator. Dominant regional and local factors have been identified for different areas and different time periods. The chronological and spatial characteristics of the sequences within the Fenland are best explained by a palaeocoastline without supratidal barriers controlling sedimentation. The data indicate an average crustal subsidence in the Fenland of 0.9m/1000 years since c. 6500 BP and the pattern of positive and negative tendencies of sea‐level movement is also seen in the chronologies for north west England and north east Scotland.
Compositional quality of virgin olive oil from two new Tunisian cultivars obtained through controlled crossings
Authors: Manaï Hédia , Haddada Faouzia Mahjoub , Trigui Ahmed , Daoud Douja , Zarrouk Mokhtar
Published: February 2007

This work was carried out on the study of virgin olive oil from two olive descendants obtained through controlled crossings on Chemlali, the dominant Tunisian olive oil variety. These crossings on Chemlali were undertaken to improve its oil quality. Preliminary work evaluating the oil fatty acid composition of the oil of 40 descendants showed the performance of two cultivars among the studied hybrids. These two new cultivars (Hd 034 and Hd 039) have an improved oil composition compared to that of Chemlali. A further study was therefore required for their complete characterization. The analytical parameters (fatty acid composition, total phenolic compounds, chlorophylls and carotenoids contents, oxidative stability, free acidity, peroxide value and ultraviolet characteristics) showed significant differences between oils from both cultivars. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Trace LC/MS quantitative analysis of polypeptide biomarkers: Impact of 1‐D and 2‐D chromatography on matrix effects and sensitivity
Authors: Rogatsky Eduard , Tomuta Vlad , Jayatillake Harsha , Cruikshank Greg , Vele Louis , Stein Daniel T.
Published: February 2007

We investigated the impact of one dimension (single reverse phase (RP) column) and two dimension (two different RP columns) chromatographic methods on SIM (MS) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM; MS/MS) performance from human plasma. We find that MRM analysis is clearly preferable for 1‐D applications; however, implementation of SIM detection in conjunction with 2‐D separation technique resulted in an over 60‐fold increase in analyte peak area and improved S/N compared to MRM for our analyte, human C‐peptide. Implementation of a 2‐D RP‐RP technique with SIM detection is capable of eliminating matrix effects and greatly increases signal response and data quality. For two large peptides in complex biological samples, we found that a 2‐D approach performed better than high quality sample preparation together with 1‐D chromatography and MRM, even on a high‐end mass spectrometer.
Preparation and Characterization of Hybrid Quaternized Chitosan/Acrylic Resin Emulsions and their Films
Authors: Wada Tamaki , Yasuda Masafumi , Yako Hiroshi , Matoba Yasuhiro , Uragami Tadashi
Published: February 2007

An acrylic resin emulsion containing a quaternary ammonium salt (hybrid q‐chitosan/acrylic resin emulsion) was prepared by emulsion polymerization using an acrylic monomer with and without DAAM. DAAM was used to incorporate a functional keto group into the acrylic resin emulsion. Furthermore, a hybrid chitosan/acrylic resin emulsion was prepared for comparison. The elution of q‐chitosan in water from the acrylic resin film with a keto group was less than that from the acrylic resin emulsion without a keto group. In addition, the mechanical properties of the hybrid q‐chitosan/acrylic resin film could be modified by q‐chitosan that was crosslinked between acrylic resin particles. Furthermore, hybrid q‐chitosan/acrylic resin films had adsorption ability for formaldehyde, and the antimicrobial properties of these films were superior to those of the hybrid chitosan/acrylic resin film.

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Severe hypokinesis caused by paraneoplastic anti‐Ma2 encephalitis associated with bilateral intratubular germ‐cell neoplasm of the testes
Authors: Matsumoto Lumine , Yamamoto Tomotaka , Higashihara Mana , Sugimoto Izumi , Kowa Hisatomo , Shibahara Junji , Nakamura Koichiro , Shimizu Jun , Ugawa Yoshikazu , Goto Jun , Dalmau Josep , Tsuji Shoji
Published: February 2007

We report a 40‐year‐old man with severe hypokinesis as paraneoplastic manifestation of a microscopic “carcinoma in situ” of the testis. The young age of the patient, along with progressive neurologic deterioration, detection of anti‐Ma2 antibodies, and ultrasound findings of bilateral microcalcifications, led to bilateral orchiectomy, revealing the tumor in both testes. After orchiectomy, neurological symptoms stabilized, but the patient eventually died of systemic complications caused by his severe neurological deficits. Anti‐Ma2 paraneoplastic encephalitis should be considered in patients with severe hypokinesis, and intensive investigation and aggressive approach to treatment is encouraged to prevent progression of the neurological deficits. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society