bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FGF and FGFR signaling in chondrodysplasias and craniosynostosis
Authors: Marie P.J. , Coffin J.D. , Hurley M.M.
Published: September 2005

The first experimental mouse model for FGF2 in bone dysplasia was made serendipitously by overexpression of FGF from a constitutive promoter. The results were not widely accepted, rightfully drew skepticism, and were difficult to publish; because of over 2,000 studies published on FGF‐2 at the time (1993), only a few reported a role of FGF‐2 in bone growth and differentiation. However, mapping of human dwarfisms to mutations of the FGFRs shortly, thereafter, made the case that bone growth and remodeling was a major physiological function for FGF. Subsequent production of numerous transgenic and targeted null mice for several genes in the bone growth and remodeling pathways have marvelously elucidated the role of FGFs and their interactions with other genes. Indeed, studies of the FGF pathway present one of the best success stories for use of experimental genetics in functionally parsing morphogenetic regulatory pathways. What remains largely unresolved is the pleiotropic nature of FGF‐2. How does it accelerate growth in one cell then stimulate apoptosis or retard growth for another cell in the same type of tissue? Some of the answers may come through distinguishing the FGF‐2 protein isoforms, made from alternative translation start sites, these appear to have substantially different functions. Although we have made substantial progress, there is still much to be learned regarding FGF‐2 as a most complex, enigmatic protein. Studies of genetic models in mice and human FGFR mutations have provided strong evidence that FGFRs are important modulators of osteoblast function during membranous bone formation. However, there is some controversy regarding the effects of FGFR signaling in human and murine genetic models. Although significant progress has been made in our understanding of FGFR signaling, several questions remain concerning the signaling pathways involved in osteoblast regulation by activated FGFR. Additionally, little is known about the specific role of FGFR target genes involved in cranial bone formation. These issues need to be addressed in future in in vitro and in vivo approaches to better understand the molecular mechanisms of action of FGFR signaling in osteoblasts that result in anabolic effects in bone formation. J. Cell. Biochem. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of putative cis‐regulatory elements that control the transcriptional activity of the human Oct4 promoter
Authors: Yang Heung‐Mo , Do Hyun‐Jin , Oh Jong‐Hyun , Kim Jin‐Hoi , Choi Sang‐Yun , Cha Kwang‐Yul , Chung Hyung‐Min , Kim Jae‐Hwan
Published: September 2005

Octamer‐binding transcription factor‐4 (Oct4), a member of the POU domain transcription factors, is crucial for both early embryonic development and the maintenance of stem cell pluripotency. The human Oct4 (hOct4) 5′ upstream sequence contains four conserved regions (CR1, 2, 3, 4) that are homologous in the murine. In this study, we constructed a series of deletion mutants of the hOct4 5′ upstream region and identified cis‐regulatory elements that may be important determinants for the transcriptional activity of the hOct4 promoter. Our studies showed that CR2, 3, and 4 each acted as positive cis‐regulatory elements in hOct4 promoter activity. We also newly identified a putative negative cis‐acting element located between CR1 and CR2. In addition, the sequence −380/−1 at CR1 that contains a GC box was sufficient to provide the minimal promoter activity. Site‐directed mutagenesis and electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed the GC box located in the −380/−1 region may play a critical role in controlling the transcriptional activity of hOct4 by the direct binding of Sp1 or Sp3 transcription factors to the GC box. An overexpression study showed that Sp1 and Sp3 positively and negatively regulate hOct4 promoter activity. Thus, the hOct4 promoter upstream region contains multiple regulatory elements, one of which, the GC box, may be an important cis‐regulatory element that regulates the transcription of the hOct4 promoter by the binding of Sp family transcription factors. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the heating of inductively coupled resonators (stents) during MRI examinations
Authors: Busch Martin , Vollmann Wolfgang , Bertsch Thomas , Wetzler Rainer , Bornstedt Axel , Schnackenburg Bernhard , Schnorr Jörg , Kivelitz Dietmar , Taupitz Matthias , Grönemeyer Dietrich
Published: September 2005

Stents that have been implanted to preserve the results of vascular dilatation are frequently affected by in‐stent restenosis, which ideally should be followed up by a noninvasive diagnostic modality. Active MRI stents can enable this kind of follow‐up, while normal metallic stents can not. The prototype stents investigated in this study were designed as electric resonating circuits without a direct connection to the MR imager, and function as inductively coupled transmit coils. The model of a long solenoid coil is used to describe the additional power loss caused by such resonators. The theoretically estimated temperature increase is verified by measurements for different resonators and discussed for worst‐case conditions. The RF power absorption of an active resonator is negligible compared to the total power absorbed during MRI. The local temperature increase observed for prototypes embedded in phantoms is in a range that excludes direct tissue damage. However, ruptures in the conducting structure of a resonator can cause hot spots, which may establish a high local temperature. This hazard can be reduced by designing resonators with a low quality (Q) factor or by setting the circuit slightly off resonance; however, this would lower the nominal amplification for which the resonator was designed. Magn Reson Med, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A direct Schur–Fourier decomposition for the efficient solution of high‐order Poisson equations on loosely coupled parallel computers
Authors: Trias F. X. , Soria M. , Pérez‐Segarra C. D. , Oliva A.
Published: September 2005

In this paper a parallel direct Schur–Fourier decomposition (DSFD) algorithm for the direct solution of arbitrary order discrete Poisson equations on parallel computers is proposed. It is based on a combination of a Direct Schur method and a Fourier decomposition and allows to solve each Poisson equation almost to machine accuracy using only one communication episode. Thus, it is well suited for loosely coupled parallel computers, that have a high network latency compared with the CPU performance. Several three‐dimensional direct numerical simulations (DNS) of wall‐bounded turbulent incompressible flows have been carried out using the DSFD algorithm. Numerical examples illustrating the robustness and scalability of the method on a PC cluster with a conventional 100 Mbits/s network are also presented. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effective removal of albumin from serum
Authors: Colantonio David A. , Dunkinson Christy , Bovenkamp Diane E. , Van Eyk Jennifer E.
Published: September 2005

The protein constituents of serum can range from grams to picograms per liter, making it technically difficult to achieve in‐depth proteomic analysis. Removal of highly abundant proteins, such as albumin, coupled to powerful protein separation methods is required for increased sample load, thus facilitating detection and identification of low‐abundant proteins. We report here a chemical‐based extraction method for the effective and specific removal of albumin from serum.
Identification of novel lysosomal matrix proteins by proteome analysis
Authors: Kollmann Katrin , Mutenda Kudzai E. , Balleininger Martina , Eckermann Ellen , von Figura Kurt , Schmidt Bernhard , Lübke Torben
Published: September 2005

The lysosomal matrix is estimated to contain about 50 different proteins. Most of the matrix proteins are acid hydrolases that depend on mannose 6‐phosphate receptors (MPR) for targeting to lysosomes. Here, we describe a comprehensive proteome analysis of MPR‐binding proteins from mouse. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts defective in both MPR (MPR 46‐/– and MPR 300‐/–) are known to secrete the lysosomal matrix proteins. Secretions of these cells were affinity purified using an affinity matrix derivatized with MPR46 and MPR300. In the protein fraction bound to the affinity matrix and eluted with mannose 6‐phosphate, 34 known lysosomal matrix proteins, 4 candidate proteins of the lysosomal matrix and 4 non‐lysosomal contaminants were identified by mass spectrometry after separation by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis or by multidimensional protein identification technology. For 3 of the candidate proteins, mammalian ependymin‐related protein‐2 (MERP‐2), retinoid‐inducible serine carboxypeptidase (RISC) and the hypothetical 66.3‐kDa protein we could verify that C‐terminally tagged forms bound in an M6P‐dependent manner to an MPR‐affinity matrix and were internalized via MPR‐mediated endocytosis. Hence these 3 proteins are likely to represent hitherto unrecognized lysosomal matrix proteins.
Accelerated iterative strategy for the divergent synthesis of dendritic macromolecules using a combination of living radical polymerization and an irreversible terminator multifunctional initiator
Authors: Percec Virgil , Grigoras Cristian , Bera Tushar K. , Barboiu Bogdan , Bissel Philippe
Published: September 2005

Our laboratory has reported the elaboration of an iterative strategy for the synthesis of dendritic macromolecules from conventional monomers. This synthetic method involves a combination of self‐regulated metal‐catalyzed living radical polymerization initiated from arenesulfonyl chlorides and an irreversible terminator multifunctional initiator (TERMINI). The previous TERMINI, (1,1‐dimethylethyl)[[1‐[3,5‐bis(S‐phenyl‐4‐N,N′ diethylthiocarbamate)phenyl]ethenyl]oxy]dimethylsilane, was prepared in nine reaction steps. The replacement of the previous TERMINI with one that requires only three steps for its synthesis, diethylthiocarbamic acid S‐{3‐[1‐(tert‐butyl‐dimethyl‐silanyloxy)‐vinyl]‐5‐diethylcarbamoylsulfanyl‐phenyl} ester, and the use of the more reactive Cu2S/2,2′‐bipyridine rather than the Cu2O/2,2′‐bipyridine self‐regulated catalyst have generated an accelerated method for the synthesis of dendritic macromolecules. This method provides rational design strategies for the synthesis of dendritic macromolecules with different compaction by the use of a single monomer. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4894–4906, 2005
Miscible blend dynamics and the length scale of local compositions
Authors: García Sakai Victoria , Maranas Janna K. , Chowdhuri Zema , Peral Inmaculada , Copley John R. D.
Published: September 2005

We consider the influence of a local, or effective, composition on dynamics in the miscible polymer blend PEO/PMMA. Quasielastic neutron scattering in combination with deuterium labeling is employed to determine characteristic relaxation times of the PEO component over spatial scales from 3 to 10 Å. Information about the distribution of relaxation times is obtained indirectly from the stretching parameters in a stretched exponential fit. We examine the behavior of these parameters with spatial scale and temperature, finding that their variation supports a distribution of PEO mobility in the blend which is far wider than pure PEO and narrows with decreasing temperature for small spatial scales. This is linked to the concept of local compositions defined over varying spatial scales, and indicates that the concept of a local composition, linked to PEO dynamics, is important in this system. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 2914–2923, 2005
Plastic deformation of MoSi2 single crystals along 〈110〉
Authors: Dietzsch Christian , Bartsch Martin , Messerschmidt Ulrich
Published: September 2005

MoSi2 single crystals were deformed along the soft 〈110〉 compression axis between room temperature and 1050 °C. The strain rate sensitivity of the flow stress was determined by stress relaxation tests. The temperature dependence of the flow stress shows three temperature ranges, a low and a high‐temperature range with a normal decrease of the flow stress with increasing temperature and an intermediate range with an anomalous flow stress increase. In the latter range, the strain rate sensitivity decreases (inversely) with increasing strain rate. The dislocation structures of the deformed samples were imaged in diffraction contrast in a high‐voltage electron microscope. In contrast to the low and high‐temperature ranges, the dislocations are straight and oriented along 〈111〉 directions in the anomaly range. The results are interpreted by a large athermal stress component, the action of the Peierls mechanism in the low temperature range, a new dissociation model of the dislocations requiring conservative climb in the dislocation core in the anomaly range, and recovery‐controlled deformation in the high‐temperature range. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Intermittent and Mobile Surgical Services: Logistics and Outcomes
Authors: Rodas Edgar , Vicuña Anita , Merrell Ronald C.
Published: September 2005

A program of intermittent surgical services utilized a mobile facility to support multiple primary care sites in Ecuador. The fiscal and clinical outcomes of the program were analyzed. From 1994 to 2003 the mobile program responded to requests from 15 of 22 provinces of Ecuador for surgical care. The sites served could not offer permanent surgical care. Criteria for inclusion and follow‐up were set. Medical records were kept in accordance with standards of the Ministry of Health. Standards of care and critical care pathways were instituted. The program had a permanent staff supplemented by volunteers. Cases were recorded and outcomes noted with respect to complications. The cost of the surgical aspect of the program was entirely covered by a foundation through donations and public service contracts. Financial records of the foundation were reviewed and the costs analyzed. A total of 4545 operations were done largely in general surgery specialties. The program made 40 to 50 excursions each year and proved to be a stable element of medical care delivery. There were no deaths, four major complications, and three minor complications. The cost per operation was less than $100. Comparison to U.S. and international volunteer organizations are reported. This program of intermittent mobile surgical services in coordination with fixed primary care constitutes a sustainable, high quality clinical program fully integrated into existing care of a national health ministry. In‐country resources may provide greatly enhanced services at low cost and should be considered as an alternative.
The Case Against Volume as a Measure of Quality of Surgical Care
Authors: Khuri Shukri F. , Henderson William G.
Published: September 2005

Healthcare purchasers, represented by the Leapfrog Group, have attempted to set standards for “quality” of surgical care that include a minimum volume for each of five major surgical procedures, with the assumption that higher volumes in surgery bring better outcomes. The VA National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) is a validated, outcome‐based program that prospectively collects clinical data on all major surgical operations in the VA, and builds validated risk‐adjustment models that generate, for each hospital and each surgical specialty within a hospital, risk‐adjusted outcomes expressed as O/E (observed to expected) ratios for 30‐day mortality and morbidity. The O/E ratio has been validated as a reliable comparative measure of the quality of surgical care. Unlike retrospective studies that are based on administrative databases, NSQIP studies have failed to demonstrate a direct relationship between volume and risk‐adjusted outcomes of surgery across various specialties. These studies have emphasized that the quality of systems of care was more important than volume in determining the overall quality of surgical care at an institution. High‐volume hospitals could still deliver poor care in as much as low‐volume hospitals could deliver good care. NSQIP studies have also underscored the major limitations of claims data and administrative databases in the provision of adequate risk‐adjustment models that are crucial for volume–outcome studies. Therefore, volume should not be substituted for prospectively monitored and properly risk‐adjusted outcomes as a comparative measure of the quality of surgical care.
Fumarase deficiency presenting with periventricular cysts
Authors: Loeffen J. , Smeets R. , Voit T. , Hoffmann G. , Smeitink J.
Published: September 2005

A fumarase‐deficient patient expressed a novel phenotype of congenital cerebral ventricular dilatation and periventricular cysts. The patient was a compound heterozygote for two mutations that are the only ones among the 12 published mutations that have been found in multiple, unrelated, fumarase‐deficient patients.
Successful prenatal molecular diagnosis of carbamyl‐phosphate synthetase I deficiency in two at‐risk pregnancies
Authors: Funghini S. , Morrone A. , Pasquini E. , Zammarchi E. , Donati M. A.
Published: September 2005

We report the two first prenatal diagnoses in an Italian family with a proband affected by neonatal carbamyl‐phosphate synthetase I deficiency in which molecular analysis identified V457G and Q810R amino acid substitutions. We performed a prenatal diagnosis on genomic DNA isolated from chorionic villus and amniotic fluid samples collected at 13 weeks of gestation. In the first pregnacy, the fetus was compound heterozygous for the mutations and termination of pregnancy was elected. The genetic lesions were also confirmed on genomic DNA isolated from the fetus's liver and skin fibroblasts. A few months later, we performed a second prenatal diagnosis in this family. The second fetus was heterozygous for the wild‐type alleles. The pregnancy was continued and a girl was born at 41 weeks of gestation. We have confirmed the wild‐type state on the baby's DNA.
Successful pregnancy in a treated patient with biotinidase deficiency
Authors: Hendriksz C. J. , Preece M. A. , Chakrapani A.
Published: September 2005

We report a patient with biotinidase deficiency treated with biotin during pregnancy with favourable outcome.
Pipecolic acid concentrations in brain tissue of nutritionally pyridoxine‐deficient rats
Authors: Plecko B. , Hoeger H. , Jakobs C. , Struys E. , Stromberger C. , Leschnik M. , Muehl A. , Stoeckler‐Ipsiroglu S.
Published: September 2005

Elevated concentrations of pipecolic acid have been reported in plasma and CSF of patients with pyridoxine‐dependent epilepsy, but its molecular background is unclear. To investigate any further association of pyridoxine and pipecolic acid metabolism, we have performed an animal trial and have measured the concentration of pipecolic acid in brain tissue of rats with nutritional pyridoxine deficiency and in control littermates. Concentrations of pyridoxal phosphate were significantly reduced in brain tissue of pyridoxine‐deficient rats (p < 0.001), while concentrations of pipecolic acid were not significantly different from the normally nourished control group (p = 0.3). These data indicate that a direct association of pyridoxine and pipecolic acid metabolism is unlikely. We therefore assume that the characteristic elevation of pipecolic acid in pyridoxine‐dependent epilepsy could rather be a secondary phenomenon with the primary defect of pyridoxine‐dependent epilepsy being located outside the pipecolic acid pathway.
A case of hyperinsulinism/hyperammonaemia syndrome with reduced carbamoyl‐phosphate synthetase‐1 activity in liver: A pitfall in enzymatic diagnosis for hyperammonaemia
Authors: Ihara K. , Miyako K. , Ishimura M. , Kuromaru R. , Wang H.‐Y. , Yasuda K. , Hara T.
Published: September 2005

We report a patient who was first diagnosed as having congenital carbamoyl‐phosphate synthetase‐1 (CPS‐1) deficiency on the basis of significantly low CPS‐1 activity in the liver at 1 year of age. We then started therapy against hyperammonaemia with little effect and, at the age of 15 years, we analysed theGLUD1gene and found a previously reported gain‐of‐function mutation in the gene, resulting in a change of her diagnosis to hyperinsulinism/hyperammonaemia (HI/HA) syndrome. This case demonstrates that low CPS‐1 activity in liver, however significant it might be, does not always come from a primary CPS‐1 deficiency and that we have to take into consideration the possibility of a secondary CPS‐1 deficiency, such as HI/HA syndrome.
Clinical evaluation of a portable lactate meter in type I glycogen storage disease
Authors: Saunders A. C. , Feldman H. A. , Correia C. E. , Weinstein D. A.
Published: September 2005

High lactate concentrations occur in type I glycogen storage disease (GSD) whenever glycogenolysis occurs. Not only does hyperlactataemia cause acute clinical deterioration, but chronic lactate elevations have also been associated with many of the long‐term complications in GSD. A portable finger‐stick blood lactate meter has recently been marketed as a training tool for high‐performance athletes, but it has not been tested as a clinical diagnostic tool. This study was performed to assess the accuracy of the portable lactate meter in subjects with GSD I who are predisposed to high lactate concentrations. A total of 166 intravenous and 39 capillary samples from 13 subjects were tested concomitantly on three different lactate meters. The meter readings were compared with the lactate concentration determined by the laboratory gold‐standard enzymatic colorimetric assay. Almost no inter‐meter variability was found. The lactate meter values had outstanding correlation with the laboratory lactate determination, although the meters were found to run 0.5 mmol/L higher than the laboratory assay. The meter deviation was independent of lactate concentration. More variability was noted with finger‐stick capillary lactate determinations, but monitoring of trends with capillary samples should prove valuable as a method for determining long‐term control or acute deterioration. The portable lactate meter is a highly accurate tool for monitoring lactate concentrations, and should prove valuable for monitoring metabolic control in patients with GSD type I and other disorders associated with hyperlactataemia.
Molecular defects in Sanfilippo syndrome type B (mucopolysaccharidosis IIIB)
Authors: Beesley C. E. , Jackson M. , Young E. P. , Vellodi A. , Winchester B. G.
Published: September 2005

Sanfilippo syndrome type B (mucopolysaccharidosis IIIB) is an autosomal recessive disease that is caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme α‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase (NAGLU). NAGLU is involved in the degradation of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) heparan sulphate, and a deficiency results in the accumulation of partially degraded GAGs inside lysosomes. Early clinical symptoms include hyperactivity, aggressiveness and delayed development, followed by progressive mental deterioration, although there are a small number of late‐onset attenuated cases. The gene for NAGLU has been fully characterized and we report the molecular analysis of 18 Sanfilippo B families. In total, 34 of the 36 mutant alleles were characterized in this study and 20 different mutations were identified including 8 novel changes (R38W, V77G, 407–410del4, 703delT, A246P, Y335C, 1487delT, E639X). The four novel missense mutations were transiently expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells and all were shown to decrease the NAGLU activity markedly, although A246P did produce 12.7% residual enzyme activity.
Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency presenting at birth
Authors: Al‐Sanna'a N. A. , Van Kuilenburg A. B. P. , Atrak T. M. , Jabbar M. A. Abdul , Van Gennip A. H.
Published: September 2005

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency (McKusick 274270) is a clinically heterogeneous autosomal recessive disorder of pyrimidine metabolism. DPD is the enzyme that catalyses the first and the rate‐limiting step in the catabolism of uracil, thymine and the analogue 5‐fluorouracil. To date, more than 30 patients have been diagnosed with a complete enzyme deficiency. Here, we describe the fifth case with a complete DPD deficiency presenting at birth with severe neurological abnormalities. The patient was homozygous for the common splice‐site mutation IVS14+1G > A.
Adolescent attributes contributing to the imposter phenomenon☆
Authors: Caselman Tonia D. , Self Patricia A. , Self Angela L.
Published: September 2005

Personality traits, self‐perceptions, beliefs, and feelings that accompany the Imposter Phenomenon (IP) have been identified in adults but little research with adolescents has been reported. The present research describes data from a sample of 11th and 12th graders in order to examine predictors of IP among adolescents. The participants completed measures of the IP, global self‐worth, social support and self‐concept. Gender differences were found in correlations between IP and Parent Support, Classmate Support, and Teacher Support. Multiple regression analyses found significant predictors of IP scores for females to be Friend Support, Classmate Support and Dependability. Only Friend Support significantly predicted IP scores for males. The unique variance explained (UVE) by each of the variables was fairly modest, suggesting that the variables are explaining a considerable amount of the same portion of the variance, particularly for females.
Recurrent Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Parotid Gland
Authors: Leonetti John P. , Marzo Sam J. , Petruzzelli Guy J. , Herr Brian
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVES

To assess the long‐term results in the management of 42 patients with recurrent pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of 42 patients who underwent parotidectomy for recurrent pleomorphic adenoma was performed to study presenting clinicoradiographic features, surgical technique, facial nerve management, and the long‐term risk of recurrence.

RESULTS

All 42 patients had multi‐focal, nontender recurrent nodules following one to four prior surgical procedures and 6 patients underwent prior radiotherapy. Surgical procedures included subtotal parotidectomy in 12 patients, total parotidectomy in 18 patients, parotidectomy with facial nerve resection in 7 cases, and subtotal petrosectomy with facial nerve resection in 5 individuals. The 2 patients with malignant transformation died of disseminated lung and bone metastasis. Twenty‐nine of the remaining 40 patients had no recurrent disease. Seven patients developed local parotid bed or cutaneous recurrent disease, 2 patients died of unrelated causes, and 2 patients were lost to follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS

All 7 patients with recurrent disease underwent subtotal parotidectomy with “negative” surgical margins. Total parotidectomy or subtotal petrosectomy with facial nerve resection in selected cases may reduce the risk of multiple episodes of pleomorphic adenoma recurrence. Two of 42 patients were found to have carcinoma ex‐pleomorphic adenoma, both of these patients underwent prior radiotherapy, and both died of metastatic disease.
Effects of Tracheostomy on Well‐being and Body‐Image Perceptions
Authors: Gilony Dror , Gilboa Dalia , Blumstein Tzvia , Murad Havi , Talmi Yoav P. , Kronenberg Jona , Wolf Michael
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVE

Quality of life after tracheostomy was addressed by measuring its impact on well being and body image perceptions.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

A controlled study in a laryngotracheal clinic of a tertiary referral center. Three groups were studied: 24 cannulated, 19 decannulated, and 20 noncannulated patients. They filled up 3 conventional questionnaires.

RESULTS

(1) Satisfaction‐with‐life scale: reduced scores were detected between cannulated and noncannulated patients. (2) Personality traits: neuroticism and extroversion: no differences were noted. (3) Body cathexis scale: both cannulated and decannulated patients scored less than noncannulated. In tracheostomy‐specific issues, decannulated patients scored better than cannulated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced scores after tracheostomy indicate an overall diminished quality of life. These changes correlate with personality traits. Decannulated patients exhibited only slight improvement indicating an incomplete psychosocial recovery.

SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first report on tracheostomy related quality of life in noncancer patients conducted with specific psychological questionnaires.
Unilateral Profound Hearing Loss and the Effect on Quality of Life After Cerebellopontine Angle Surgery
Authors: Subramaniam Kavitha , Eikelboom Robert H. , Eager Katrise M. , Atlas Marcus D.
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVE

To assess patients’ quality of life after cerebellopontine angle surgery, and in particular, quality of life related to unilateral profound hearing loss.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross‐sectional in a tertiary referral center. Quality of life of 51 postoperative patients was assessed by using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI). Thirty patients with unilateral profound hearing loss who had undergone the translabyrinthine approach completed a subsequent quality‐of‐life questionnaire on speech discrimination and sound localization.

RESULTS

Ninety‐four percent of respondents to the 2nd survey reported difficulties with speech discrimination, and 97%, with sound localization. The general health and overall GBI indices correlated significantly (P>0.01) with a number of speech and localization difficulties.

CONCLUSION

Unilateral profound hearing loss may be a significant factor in a change in quality of life after cerebellopontine angle surgery.

SIGNIFICANCE

Rehabilitation devices that improve discrimination and localization, and hearing preservation surgery, if indicated, should be considered for these patients.
Effects of Intratympanic Injection of Latanoprost in Meniere's Disease: A Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, Double‐Blind, Pilot Study
Authors: Rask‐Andersen Helge , Friberg Ulla , Johansson Marianne , Stjernschantz Johan
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVE

To determine the short‐term effects of latanoprost, a selective FP prostanoid receptor agonist, in Meniere's disease.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Latanoprost was administered by intratympanic injection once daily for 3 days. Before the first injection (day 1) and on days 5 and 15, hearing and tinnitus were determined. The patients assessed vertigo on a visual analogue scale on days 1‐15. The study was randomized, doubleblind, and placebo‐controlled.

RESULTS

Latanoprost reduced vertigo/dysequilibrium around 30% (P >0.05), and improved speech discrimination around 15% (P >0.05). Tinnitus loudness deteriorated after injection of placebo (P >0.01) but not after latanoprost. Side effects were few.

CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE

Latanoprost alleviated vertigo/dysequilibrium and improved hearing. The results indicate that the drug potentially could be useful for treatment of Meniere's disease.
Association of Reflux With Otitis Media in Children
Authors: Lieu Judith E.C. , Muthappan P. Ganesh , Uppaluri Ravindra
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVES

To confirm the finding of pepsin/pepsinogen in middle ear fluid of children with chronic or recurrent otitis media (OME or ROM), and to ask parents about symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux (GER).

METHODS

Middle ear fluid was collected from children undergoing tympanostomy tube placement. We tested this fluid for pepsin/pepsinogen using a proteolytic enzyme assay and an ELISA. Parents completed questionnaires about symptoms of GER in their children.

RESULTS

We collected 36 samples from 22 children; 16 of 22 children (73%) were positive with the proteolytic assay; 17 (77%) were positive with ELISA. Questionnaires did not show increased GER symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

We replicated the finding of pepsin/pepsinogen in middle ear fluid of children with OME or ROM, but did not find any increase in GER symptoms. Further research is needed to establish a causative link between GER and OM.
Percutaneous Tracheotomy in Bone Marrow Transplant Patients With Severe Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Gordin Arie , Netzer Aviram , Joachims Henry Zvi , Golz Avishay
Published: September 2005

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of percutaneous tracheotomy in bone marrow transplant patients with severe thrombocytopenia.

DESIGN

A retrospective outcome study.

PATIENTS

A retrospective study of 26 percutaneous tracheotomies was performed at the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel. Age, sex, underlying disease, reason for intubation, complete blood count, coagulation profile, and the incidence of renal failure were collected. All patients received 6 units of platelets one hour prior to the procedure.

RESULTS

The mean platelets count was 14,300 ± 5500. Twenty‐five of the 26 percutaneous tracheotomies were completed successfully, without any intraoperative complications. One patient suffered from moderate bleeding during the procedure, which was immediately stopped and converted to open tracheotomy. In the postoperative period 4 patients suffered from mild bleeding around the stoma, which was managed conservatively. No other late complications were encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous tracheotomy can be safely performed in patients with severe thrombocytopenia when the surgeon and anesthesiologist are experienced in the procedure, and platelets are given perioperatively.
Hospital transmission of hepatitis B virus in the absence of exposure prone procedures
Authors: SMELLIE M. K. R. , CARMAN W. F. , ELDER S. , WALKER D. , LOBIDEL D. , HARDIE R. , DOWNIE G. , McMENAMIN J. , CAMERON S. , MORRISON D. , ARMSTRONG J. , GOLDBERG D.
Published: September 2005

In February and in June 1998, two people developed acute hepatitis B following in-patient care in a district general hospital. Initial enquiries indicated their infections were not attributable to staff undertaking exposure-prone procedures (EPPs). We report the findings and implications of the subsequent investigation: a multi-disciplinary, multi-agency investigation, including molecular epidemiological analysis. Occupational Health records showed that staff involved in EPPs with the patients were HBsAg negative. No contact between the patients was identified nor were there failures in sterilization. The patients' HBV strains were identical, indicating a common source. A total of 231 out of 232 staff who might have treated either patient were tested for HBsAg; the remaining doctor, working abroad, was HBsAg- and HBeAg-positive and had the same HBV strain as the patients. On two occasions the doctor's hand had been cut while breaking glass vials, but there was no documentation linking these events to the two patients. The doctor had been vaccinated in 1993 and tested for anti-HBs prior to commencing work in 1997. The doctor was recalled to Occupational Health but did not attend and was not followed up. In total, 4948 patients potentially treated by the doctor received an explanatory letter and 3150 were tested for HBsAg. Only one was positive, and HBV sequencing showed no link to the doctor. Occasionally transmission of HBV from heath-care workers can occur in a non-EPP setting and the implications of this require examination by those setting national policy. Occupational Health Services should investigate clinical heath-care workers who do not respond to vaccination. They should ensure HBV carriers are identified and offer them appropriate advice to prevent transmission to patients.
Magmatic segmentation of the northern Knipovich Ridge: Evidence for high‐pressure fractionation at an ultraslow spreading ridge
Authors: Hellevang Bjarte , Pedersen Rolf B.
Published: September 2005

The ultraslow spreading Knipovich Ridge shows axial topographic highs that are associated with off‐axis linear arrays of seamounts that parallel the spreading direction. These linear arrays suggest that the segmentation has been stable for at least 7–8 m.y. Axial topographic highs are marked with distinct gravity anomalies, suggesting that they represent thicker crust and hence volcanic segment centers. Dredging on the northern Knipovich Ridge between 76°30′ and 77°50′N shows that the axial and off‐axial seamounts, and the deeper axial rift valley between the segment centers, are composed of volcanic rocks. The basalts are subdivided into high‐, intermediate‐, and low‐FeO groups. Low‐FeO basalts, with generally more enriched radiogenic isotope ratios and REE patterns, were only dredged midway between segment centers, whereas dredges close to the segment centers comprised high‐ and intermediate‐FeO basalts. The variations in isotopes and REE patterns suggest that the mantle below the northern Knipovich Ridge is heterogeneous, and the along‐axis variations can be explained by higher degrees of melting of this heterogeneous source close to segment centers. The high‐ and intermediate‐FeO basalts define different MgO‐FeO liquid lines of descents that may reflect differences in the crystallization pressures or the water contents of the magmas. Similar water contents of the high‐ and intermediate‐FeO basalts suggest that the differences in FeO primarily are a pressure effect and that the intermediate‐FeO group fractionated at higher pressure than the high‐FeO group. The high‐FeO basalts show both low‐ and high‐pressure phenocryst assemblages, suggesting crystallization at high pressures (6–7 kbar) followed by shallow, low‐pressure fractionation. On the basis of the new data we propose that magmas at this ultraslow spreading ridge fractionate at mantle depth, except at segment centers where magma productivity occasionally is high enough to sustain shallow level magma reservoirs.
Solar energetic electrons related to the 28 October 2003 flare
Authors: Klassen A. , Krucker S. , Kunow H. , Müller‐Mellin R. , Wimmer‐Schweingruber R. , Mann G. , Posner A.
Published: September 2005

We investigate the solar origin of near‐relativistic electrons and protons during the X17.2/4B flare as observed by the Comprehensive Suprathermal and Energetic Particle Analyser (COSTEP) and Three‐Dimensional Plasma (3DP) analyzer experiments on board the SOHO and Wind spacecraft. These observations are combined with ground‐ and space‐based spectral radio data obtained by the Potsdam spectrograph and the Wind/Waves instrument. Additionally, we use measurements of relativistic protons (ground‐level event (GLE)) by neutron monitors (Kiel and Moscow). Timing and electron energy spectrum analysis suggest that there are three separate stages of electron injection into interplanetary space: (1) An injection of radio type III–producing electrons is observed first; (2) an impulsive injection with an almost symmetric time profile with a short duration (∼18 min) is released ∼11 min later, followed by (3) a gradual, long (>1 hour) lasting injection, with an onset ∼25 min after the first type III burst. While the first escaping type III–producing electrons are more likely related to the reconnection processes during the impulsive flare phase, the association of the two delayed electron injections with solar events is not well understood.
Effect of elevated pCO2 on photosynthesis and calcification of corals and interactions with seasonal change in temperature/irradiance and nutrient enrichment
Authors: Langdon C. , Atkinson M. J.
Published: September 2005

An investigation was conducted to determine the effects of elevated pCO2 on the net production and calcification of an assemblage of corals maintained under near‐natural conditions of temperature, light, nutrient, and flow. Experiments were performed in summer and winter to explore possible interactions between seasonal change in temperature and irradiance and the effect of elevated pCO2. Particular attention was paid to interactions between net production and calcification because these two processes are thought to compete for the same internal supply of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). A nutrient enrichment experiment was performed because it has been shown to induce a competitive interaction between photosynthesis and calcification that may serve as an analog to the effect of elevated pCO2. Net carbon production, NPC, increased with increased pCO2 at the rate of 3 ± 2% (μmol CO2aq kg−1)−1. Seasonal change of the slope NPC‐[CO2aq] relationship was not significant. Calcification (G) was strongly related to the aragonite saturation state Ωa. Seasonal change of the G‐Ωa relationship was not significant. The first‐order saturation state model gave a good fit to the pooled summer and winter data: G = (8 ± 1 mmol CaCO3 m−2 h−1)(Ωa − 1), r2 = 0.87, P = 0.0001. Both nutrient and CO2 enrichment resulted in an increase in NPC and a decrease in G, giving support to the hypothesis that the cellular mechanism underlying the decrease in calcification in response to increased pCO2 could be competition between photosynthesis and calcification for a limited supply of DIC.
Ocean general circulation model sensitivity experiments on the annual cycle of Western Hemisphere Warm Pool
Authors: Lee S.‐K. , Enfield D. B. , Wang C.
Published: September 2005

A series of ocean general circulation (OGCM) model experiments is carried out using a hybrid coordinate ocean model (HYCOM) to determine the annual cycle of Western Hemisphere Warm Pool (WHWP) heat budget and to assess the appropriateness of commonly used surface flux data sets in driving HYCOM simulations of the WHWP. Among the eight surface heat flux data sets addressed in this study, we find that the simulated SST is closest to the observations when the Southampton constrained (SHC) heat flux data are used, consistent with the conclusion of the data‐based study of Enfield and Lee (2005). However, the modeled thermocline water is warmer and its stratification is weaker than observed regardless of the surface heat flux data used, possibly because of the low vertical resolution of the model used in this study. A preliminary heat budget analysis suggests that the surface net heat flux serves as the dominant forcing mechanism in the WHWP regions except in the equatorial Atlantic, where advective processes associated with the equatorial cold tongue are more important. A process of winter overturning that warms the upper layer by convection marks the Gulf of Mexico, while horizontal advection is of little importance there. The eastern north Pacific and Caribbean are affected significantly by vertical and horizontal advection during the onset and peak phases, slowing down the warming considerably.
Elastic thickness estimates for coronae associated with chasmata on Venus
Authors: Hoogenboom Trudi , Houseman Greg , Martin Paula
Published: September 2005

In this study we investigate the relationship between the local elastic lithospheric thickness and the relative ages of coronae on Venus in an attempt to further understand corona and chasmata formation/evolution. We use Magellan gravity and topography data to estimate the elastic lithospheric thickness in the vicinity of coronae associated with chasmata. The relative timing of corona formation with respect to chasmata formation is classified using superposition relationships between fractures and flows associated with the corona, and the regional fracture sets associated with the chasmata. For the 31 coronae that we here examine (limited by low resolution of the Magellan gravity field in some regions of interest), estimates of elastic thickness appear to be related to the relative timing of corona formation. Coronae that formed after chasmata exhibit smaller values of elastic thickness (0 to 19 km), which may result from their formation on relatively warm and weak lithosphere due to lithospheric extension associated with chasmata formation. Coronae that formed prior to chasmata formation display greater elastic thickness values (0 to 56 km). These coronae are interpreted to have formed on lithosphere that was stronger (colder). However, examples of coronae with small elastic thickness (<5 km) are found in all relative timing groups.
Wave breaking induced surface wakes and jets observed during a bora event
Authors: Jiang Qingfang , Doyle James D.
Published: September 2005

An observational and modeling study of a bora event that occurred during the field phase of the Mesoscale Alpine Programme is presented. Research aircraft in‐situ measurements and airborne remote‐sensing observations indicate the presence of strong low‐level wave breaking and alternating surface wakes and jets along the Croatian coastline over the Adriatic Sea. The observed features are well captured by a high‐resolution COAMPS simulation. Analysis of the observations and modeling results indicate that the long‐extending wakes above the boundary layer are induced by dissipation associated with the low‐level wave breaking, which locally tends to accelerate the boundary layer flow beneath the breaking. Farther downstream of the high peaks, a hydraulic jump occurs in the boundary layer, which creates surface wakes. Downstream of lower‐terrain (passes), the boundary layer flow stays strong, resembling supercritical flow.
New developments in the remote estimation of the fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation in crops
Authors: Viña Andrés , Gitelson Anatoly A.
Published: September 2005

The fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation, fAPAR, is an important biophysical characteristic in models of gas exchange between the terrestrial boundary layer and the atmosphere, as well as in the analysis of vegetation productivity. Synoptic estimation of fAPAR has been performed by using NDVI as a linear proxy of fAPAR, despite the saturation of NDVI at fAPAR beyond 0.7. This paper analyzes the NDVI/fAPAR relationship in row crops (i.e. maize and soybean), and evaluates alternative vegetation indices to overcome the loss of sensitivity of NDVI at moderate‐to‐high vegetation biomass. Red‐edge NDVI, which uses NIR and a band around 700 nm and the recently proposed Wide Dynamic Range Vegetation Index, which uses red and NIR bands only, were found to be sensitive to fAPAR variation along its entire range and exhibited significant increase in sensitivity to fAPAR.
Water slope and discharge in the Amazon River estimated using the shuttle radar topography mission digital elevation model
Authors: LeFavour Gina , Alsdorf Doug
Published: September 2005

We find that the standard deviation, hence error, of the water surface elevation data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) is 5.51 m for basin‐wide, regional and local Amazon mainstem reaches. This error implies a minimum reach length of 733km in order to calculate a reliable water‐surface slope. Resulting slopes are 1.92 ± 0.19 cm/km for Manacapuru, 2.86 ± 0.24 cm/km for Itapeua and 3.20 ± 0.34 cm/km for Tupe. Manning's equation is applied with these slopes and with channel width measurements from the Global Rain Forest Mapping project synthetic aperture radar mosaics (GRFM SAR), channel depths averaged from nautical charts, and reasonable estimates of Manning's n. Resulting discharge values are 84,800 m3/s at Manacapuru, 79,800 m3/s at Itapeua, and 62,900 m3/s at Tupe averaged over the SRTM mission period. These values are within 6.2% at Manacapuru, 7.6% at Itapeua, and 0.3% at Tupe of the in‐situ gage‐based estimates for the same or similar time period.