bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Magnetic Tracking and Optical Tracking by Simultaneous Use of Two Independent Frameless Stereotactic Systems
Authors: Mascott Christopher R.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to compare the calculated accuracy and the true surgical accuracy of a magnetic and an optical tracking system at surgical registration and during surgery.

METHODS:

Two Food and Drug Administration-approved, commercially available frameless stereotactic systems were used simultaneously in 70 surgical cases. The Compass Cygnus-PFS system (Compass International, Rochester MN) uses magnetic field referencing and tracking. The StealthStation (Medtronic SNT, Louisville, CO) uses optical referencing and tracking. Registration was performed for each of the systems using adhesive fiducial markers, cranial-implanted markers, anatomic landmarks, or a combination thereof. Preoperative imaging consisted of volumetric computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or both. Calculated accuracy was given by each of the systems as the root mean square after registration. Surgical accuracy was assessed by comparing the anatomic accuracy of each system with a number of recognizable intraoperative anatomic landmarks

RESULTS:

Calculated accuracy (root mean square) was 1.4 ± 0.6 mm using the magnetic system and 1.4 ± 0.8 mm using the optical tracking system. In the 42 patients with implanted cranial fiducials, the calculated accuracies were 1.0 ± 0.5 mm (magnetic) and 0.9 ± 0.4 mm (optical). True surgical accuracy was considered good (3 mm or less) in both systems in 60 of 70 patients. In two patients, neither system was accurate. In eight patients, one of the two systems was considered inaccurate. Of these, the magnetic system was considered inaccurate three times and the optical system five times.

CONCLUSION:

Magnetic referencing and tracking was found to be comparable with optical tracking both with regard to calculated and true surgical accuracy. Interference from metal objects in the magnetic field was seen rarely.
Techniques for Aspirating Bone Marrow for Use in Spinal Surgery
Authors: Kitchel Scott H. , Wang Michael Y. , Lauryssen Carl L.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

The osteogenicity of bone marrow has been well documented in the literature. The use of bone marrow as a source of osteoprogenitor cells for spinal fusion surgery is increasing. Improper aspiration technique can lead to dilution of bone marrow and a subsequent reduction in osteoprogenitor cells. Therefore, correct aspiration technique is imperative to the successful use of bone marrow with various grafting combinations.

METHODS:

The authors describe techniques for aspirating bone marrow from the anterior and posterior iliac crest, as well as vertebral body aspiration. The use of selective cell retention to increase the number of osteoprogenitor cells populating a graft is also described.

RESULTS:

Complications from bone marrow aspiration can occur, but the incidence is rare.

CONCLUSION:

Clinical studies currently under way will answer the question of bone marrow efficacy in spinal fusion surgery.
Tumors of the Lateral and Third Ventricle: Removal under Endoscope-assisted Keyhole Conditions
Authors: Charalampaki Patra , Filippi Ronald , Welschehold Stefan , Conrad Jens , Perneczky Axel
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Intraventricular tumors usually are managed by approaches and microsurgical techniques that need retraction and dissection of important brain structures. Minimally invasive endoscopic procedures achieve a remarkable alternative to conventional microneurosurgical techniques. Endoscope-assisted microneurosurgery may be a minimally invasive technique with maximally effective treatment. Using the keyhole concept for planning the surgical strategy, the reduction of the brain retraction is achieved, which is one of the main benefits of this technique.

METHODS:

We treated 35 patients (16 female patients and 19 male patients) with tumors in the lateral (n = 8) and the third (n = 27) ventricle. Patient age at the date of surgery ranged from 5 to 73 years. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 83 months. The tumors were operated on using transcortical, transcallosal, or suboccipital transtentorial or infratentorial supracerebellar approaches after precise planning of the skin incision, the trephination, and the trajectory to the center of the tumor, performed earlier with a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

RESULTS:

Total removal of the tumor was achieved in 28 patients (78.5%). In 2 patients (6.5%), recurrent tumor occurred. In 5 patients (15%), parts of the tumors remained because of infiltration of eloquent areas. Overall clinical improvement was achieved in 31 patients (87%). Three patients (10%) were unchanged and 1 patient (3%) deteriorated.

CONCLUSION:

Endoscope-assisted keyhole neurosurgery seems to be a safe method of removing tumors in all regions inside the ventricular system with a low risk of permanent neurological deficits. The exact surgical corridor planning on the basis of the keyhole strategy offers less traumatic exposure of even deep-seated endoventricular tumors.
Motor Evoked Potential Monitoring during Cerebral Aneurysm Surgery: Technical Aspects and Comparison of Transcranial and Direct Cortical Stimulation
Authors: Szelényi Andrea , Kothbauer Karl , de Camargo Adauri Bueno , Langer David , Flamm Eugene S. , Deletis Vedran
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

This study evaluates technical aspects, handling, and safety of intraoperatively applied transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) and direct cortical stimulation (DCS) for eliciting muscle motor evoked potentials (mMEPs) during cerebral aneurysm surgery.

METHODS:

In 119 patients undergoing cerebral aneurysm surgery, mMEPs were evoked by a train of five stimuli with individual pulse duration of 0.5 milliseconds, a repetition rate of 2 Hz, and constant current anodal stimulation. The maximal stimulation intensity was 240 mA for transcranial and 33 mA for direct stimulation. mMEPs were recorded continuously from the abductor pollicis brevis, from tibial anterior muscles bilaterally, and from the biceps brachii and extensor digitorum communis muscles contralateral to the side operated on.

RESULTS:

In 118 (99%) of 119 patients, transcranially evoked mMEPs were monitorable for the vascular territory of interest. DCS was performed successfully in 95 (95%) of 100 patients. In 86 (99%) of 87 patients with internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery, or posterior circulation aneurysms, mMEPs from upper-extremity muscles were obtained with DCS. In 11 (55%) of 20 patients with anterior communicating artery, anterior cerebral artery, or pericallosal aneurysms, mMEPs from the lower-extremity muscles could be recorded. The incidence of seizures was 0.84% for TES and 1% for DCS. Minor and inconsequential subdural bleeding after positioning of the strip electrode occurred in 2%.

CONCLUSION:

The cogent comprehensive combination of transcranial and direct cortical electrical stimulation allows for the continuous mMEP monitoring of the cerebral vascular territory of interest in 99% of the patients with cerebral aneurysms. Unwarranted effects of electrode placement and stimulation are rare and without clinical consequences.
Piezoelectric Bone Surgery: A Revolutionary Technique for Minimally Invasive Surgery in Cranial Base and Spinal Surgery? Technical Note
Authors: Schaller Bernhard J. , Gruber R , Merten H A. , Kruschat Thomas , Schliephake H , Buchfelder Michael , Ludwig H C.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

Piezoelectric surgery represents an innovative, ultrasonic surgery technique for performing a safe and effective osteotomy or osteoplasty that contrasts with the traditional hard and soft tissue management methods with rotating instruments.

METHODS:

Because of its physical and mechanical properties, the definitive clinical advantage of piezoelectric bone surgery with regard to precision cutting lies in the sparing of vital neurovascular bundles or general soft tissue and better visualization of the surgical field, thus suggesting its great safety. Piezoelectric bone surgery has been previously described only in oral and maxillofacial operative procedures in adults.

RESULTS:

Five children between the age of 6 and 84 months were operated on for craniosynostosis, tethered cord, and an extraconal intraorbital tumor. The usefulness of piezoelectric bone surgery during neurosurgical procedures is presented for these cases. This technique is especially recommended when there are anatomic difficulties because of poor intraoperative visibility or the presence of delicate anatomic structures.

CONCLUSION:

The present preliminary report (comprising illustrative case reports) demonstrates and introduces for the first time the utility of piezoelectric bone surgery in cranial base and spinal surgery in children. Until now, there has been no documented neurosurgical experience of this technique even in adults.
Thoracoscopically Guided Transaxillary Resection of Adjoining Intercostal Plexiform Neurofibromas: Review of Mosaicism in Neurofibromatosis: Technical Note
Authors: Salazar Fortino , Machado Andre , Murthy Sudish , Boulis Nicholas M.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

The present article describes a rare presentation of Type I neurofibromatosis (NFI) involving adjoining intercostal plexiform neurofibromas, as well as the novel use of thoracoscopy to guide surgical resection. This presentation highlights the manner in which NFI may affect selective regions of the body disproportionately through genetic mosaicism.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 40-year-old man had intractable neuropathic anterior right chest wall pain in the distribution of T2 and T3. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the chest revealed masses deep to the second and third ribs in the axilla. Biopsy of a subcutaneous nodule in the right chest wall revealed a small neurofibroma. An extensive workup revealed no masses outside the region of the right chest wall and no stigmata of NFI.

INTERVENTION:

The patient underwent right-sided thoracoscopy for identification of the intrathoracic neurofibromas and placement of spinal needles to localize the anterior and posterior extent of the masses. These landmarks were used to guide a transaxillary approach to third rib resection and nerve-sparing neurofibroma resection.

CONCLUSION:

Isolated adjoining intercostal plexiform neurofibroma is a unique presentation of mosaic NFI. Because of its limited penetrance, this variant may present as a regional pain syndrome. Thoracoscopy can be used effectively to guide intercostal nerve sheath tumor resection.
Surgical Management of Osseous Hemangioblastoma of the Thoracic Spine: Technical Case Report
Authors: Steinmetz Michael P. , Claybrooks Roderick , Krishnaney Ajit , Prayson Richard A. , Benzel Edward C.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

Spinal hemangioblastomas usually occur as isolated, intramedullary, central nervous system masses, often as a component of von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. They may occasionally occur extradurally and give the appearance of vertebral hemangioma. Rarely, they may be purely osseous lesions. The surgical management of these lesions has not been elaborated. We present a case and discuss the management of multilevel osseous hemangioblastoma of the thoracic spine.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 50-year-old woman with a history of thoracic hemangioblastoma 3 years earlier presented with progressive paraparesis. Imaging revealed circumferential tumor involvement of T7 to T9, inclusive. There was severe spinal cord compression.

INTERVENTION:

The patient underwent surgery via a bilateral lateral extracavitary approach to the tumor. This permitted a complete spondylectomy of T7, T8, and T9; complete tumor removal; and decompression of the spinal cord. Pathological analysis confirmed hemangioblastoma. The spine was reconstructed with an interbody expandable cage and pedicle screw fixation, all placed via the dorsal approach. The patient improved neurologically after the operation.

CONCLUSION:

Although extremely rare, hemangioblastomas may occur in a purely osseous location. They may resemble vertebral hemangioma. Treatment should include aggressive surgical removal, although arduous, if appropriate. A bilateral lateral extracavitary approach is ideal for complete spondylectomy. With this technique, ventral and dorsal reconstruction of the spine through the same incision is possible.
Far-lateral Approach to the Craniocervical Junction
Authors: Lanzino Giuseppe , Paolini Sergio , Spetzler Robert F.
Published: October 2005

THE FAR-LATERAL APPROACH is an extension of the standard suboccipital approach, designed to maximize exposure of the lateroventral craniocervical junction. Following a basic principle of cranial base surgery, the angle of view is increased by bone removal. Bone removal involves the most lateral part of the inferior occipital squama and the posterior arch of C1. Drilling of various portions of the occipital condyle further increases the exposure. Transposition of the vertebral artery is seldom required. The far-lateral approach allows a tangential, unobstructed view of the lateroventral cervicomedullary area and can be applied effectively to manage with a heterogeneous spectrum of pathological lesions involving this area. The technical aspects of the procedure are briefly illustrated in this report.
Deep Brain Stimulation of the Anterior Internal Capsule for the Treatment of Tourette Syndrome: Technical Case Report
Authors: Flaherty Alice W. , Williams Ziv M. , Amirnovin Ramin , Kasper Ekkehard , Rauch Scott L. , Cosgrove G Rees , Eskandar Emad N.
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

Medical treatment of Tourette syndrome is often ineffective or is accompanied by debilitating side effects, therefore prompting the need to evaluate surgical therapies.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

We present the case of a 37-year-old woman with severe Tourette syndrome since the age of 10 years. Her symptoms included frequent vocalizations and severe head and arm jerks that resulted in unilateral blindness. Trials of more than 40 medications and other therapies had failed to relieve the tics.

INTERVENTION:

We implanted bilateral electrodes in the anterior limb of the internal capsule, terminating in the vicinity of the nucleus accumbens. At 18-month follow-up, optimal stimulation continued to lower her tic frequency and severity significantly.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings suggest that stimulation of the anterior internal capsule may be a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of Tourette syndrome.
Extradural Motor Cortex Stimulation in Advanced Parkinson's Disease: The Turin Experience: Technical Case Report
Authors: Pagni Carlo Alberto , Zeme Sergio , Zenga Francesco , Maina Raffaella
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:

At our institution, extradural motor cortex stimulation (EMCS) has recently been applied for treating Parkinson's disease symptoms. We report our results and review the literature supporting this application of EMCS.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

Since 1998, six patients affected by advanced Parkinson's disease and not fulfilling inclusion criteria for deep brain stimulation underwent EMCS.

INTERVENTION:

A quadripolar electrode was introduced in the extradural space over the motor cortex, opposite to the side on which parkinsonian symptoms had begun. Bipolar chronic electrostimulation was delivered at 2.5 to 6 V, 150 to 180 microseconds, and 25 to 40 Hz. Preoperative and postoperative clinical status was assessed by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and recorded on videotapes. The follow-up of this series varied from 4 months to 2.5 years. After EMCS, the overall UPDRS score decreased by 42 to 62%; Section III UPDRS score (motility evaluation) by 32 to 83%; and Section IV UPDRS score (therapy complications) by 100% in two patients, by 50 to 67% in four patients, and by 33% in one patient. l-Dopa therapy was reduced by 11 to 33% in three patients and by 70 to 73% in the other two patients. No postoperative complications or negative side effects of electrostimulation were recorded, except for a misplacement of the electrodes in one patient.

CONCLUSION:

Unilateral EMCS relieves, at least partially, but sometimes dramatically, the whole spectrum of symptoms in advanced Parkinson's disease. l-Dopa may be reduced up to 70%. The symptoms of long-term l-dopa syndrome are usually markedly improved. The neurophysiological mechanisms involved are still under debate. Our clinical experience adds favorable data to enlarge the series of parkinsonian patients treated by EMCS.
Surgical Anatomy of the Ophthalmic Artery: Its Origin and Proximal Course
Authors: Huynh-Le Phuong , Natori Yoshihiro , Sasaki Tomio
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE:

We examined the surgical anatomy of the ophthalmic artery (OA) by dissection of cadaver heads, evaluating the anatomic relationships between the origin of the OA and both its proximal course and surrounding structures. In addition, we demonstrated the surgical application of these anatomic features for safe surgical exploration of this region.

METHODS:

Through anatomic dissection, the origin of the OA was examined in both sides of 25 formalin-fixed and 10 fresh cadaver specimens. The following parameters were evaluated: the location of the origin of the OA in relation to the dural rings, the topographic relationship of the paraclinoid region, and the location of the dural penetrating point of the OA in the optic canal.

RESULTS:

The OA originated from the internal carotid artery within the intradural space in 49% of cases, just above the upper dural ring in 37%, at the clinoid segment in 7%, and within the cavernous sinus in 6%. The dural penetrating point of the OA was anterior to the falciform ligament, and thereby in the optic canal, in 74% of cases, ventral to the falciform ligament in 19%, and posterior to the falciform ligament in 7%. The anterior circumference point of the upper dural ring, the point at which the upper dural ring intersects the anterior edge of the internal carotid artery, was more anterior to the falciform ligament in 40% of cases and ventral and posterior to the falciform ligament in 16.4% and 43.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Our anatomic findings demonstrate anatomic variation of the OA in terms of its region of origin. Several anatomic points that were noteworthy during surgical exploration of this region are discussed.
NOSTRIN functions as a homotrimeric adaptor protein facilitating internalization of eNOS
Authors: Icking Ann , Matt Simone , Opitz Nils , Wiesenthal Anja , Müller-Esterl Werner , Schilling Kirstin
Published: October 2005

Intracellular trafficking of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) between different compartments is incompletely understood. Recently, we described a novel eNOS-interacting protein, NOSTRIN, which upon overexpression drives eNOS away from the plasma membrane towards intracellular compartments. Sequence similarity of NOSTRIN and pacsins/syndapins suggested a role for NOSTRIN in endocytosis. Accordingly, we show here that NOSTRIN interacts with the large GTPase dynamin and the actin nucleation promoting factor N-WASP by means of its SH3 domain, which also represents the docking site for eNOS. Via a coiled-coil region in the C-terminal portion of the protein, NOSTRIN oligomerizes, mainly forming trimers, which would allow simultaneous interaction with multiple binding partners of the SH3 domain. Consistent with this notion, expression of dynamin-2-GFP in CHO cells stably expressing eNOS (CHO-eNOS) results in recruitment of eNOS to dynamin-positive structures, only when NOSTRIN is present as well. Similarly, when N-WASP-GFP and NOSTRIN are co-expressed in CHO-eNOS cells, both proteins strongly co-localize with eNOS and are recruited to structures running along actin filaments. If, however, the actin cytoskeleton is depolymerized by cytochalasin D, NOSTRIN and eNOS are associated with extended structures in the cell periphery, possibly being unable to leave the plasma membrane. Together, these results indicate that NOSTRIN may facilitate endocytosis of eNOS by coordinating the function of dynamin and N-WASP.
Loss of the modifiers of variegation Su(var)3-7 or HP1 impacts male X polytene chromosome morphology and dosage compensation
Authors: Spierer Anne , Seum Carole , Delattre Marion , Spierer Pierre
Published: October 2005

Loss of Su(var)3-7 or HP1 suppresses the genomic silencing of position-effect variegation, whereas over-expression enhances it. In addition, loss of Su(var)3-7 results in preferential male lethality. In polytene chromosomes deprived of Su(var)3-7, we observe a specific bloating of the male X chromosome, leading to shortening of the chromosome and to blurring of its banding pattern. In addition, the chromocenter, where heterochromatin from all polytene chromosomes fuses, appears decondensed. The same chromosomal phenotypes are observed as a result of loss of HP1. Mutations of Su(var)3-7 or of Su(var)2-5, the gene encoding HP1, also cause developmental defects, including a spectacular increase in size of the prothoracic gland and its polytene chromosomes. Thus, although structurally very different, the two proteins cooperate closely in chromosome organization and development. Finally, bloating of the male X chromosome in the Su(var)3-7 mutant depends on the presence of a functional dosage compensation complex on this chromosome. This observation reveals a new and intriguing genetic interaction between epigenetic silencing and compensation of dose.
Ornithine Decarboxylase (ODC) Expression Pattern in Human Prostate Tissues and ODC Transgenic Mice
Authors: Young Lei , Salomon Robert , Au Wendy , Allan Charles , Russell Peter , Dong Qihan
Published: October 2005

Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) is the key enzyme in the polyamine synthesis pathway and is overexpressed in a variety of cancers. We have performed a detailed immunostaining analysis of the expression of ODC in normal, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and cancerous prostate tissues. We conclude that ODC is overexpressed in both BPH and neoplastic tissues and that ODC overexpression appears to be an early event in prostate carcinogenesis. The extent of overexpression decreases as cancer progresses. Interestingly, ODC overexpression was also detected in patients who underwent androgen ablation therapy, suggesting ODC overexpression may contribute to the androgen-independent survival of prostate cancer cells. ODC is perinuclear localized in BPH samples but is diffusely cytoplasmic in cancer samples. Having shown ODC overexpression in human prostate cancer, we developed prostate-specific ODC transgenic mice to further investigate whether ODC overexpression alone is a causal factor in prostate carcinogenesis. RT-PCR and immunostaining confirmed that ODC was overexpressed in a subset of prostate epithelial cells. Although minor nucleoli enlargements in some tissues were detected, gross morphological changes were not observed in transgenic prostates. Therefore, overexpression of ODC alone in this subset of prostate epithelial cells is not sufficient to induce prostate carcinogenesis.
Structural evaluation of plasma α2-macroglobulin in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Bísaro de Lorenc Lyda , Ramos Adrian M. , Sánchez María C. , Montenegro Rolando , Chiabrando Gustavo A.
Published: October 2005

In this work we evaluate the proteolytic state of plasma α
Failure of the PAXgene™ Blood RNA System to maintain mRNA stability in whole blood
Authors: Kågedal Bertil , Lindqvist Malin , Farnebäck Malin , Lenner Liselotte , Peterson Curt
Published: October 2005

In multicentre studies of malignant and inflammatory diseases, whole blood, cell or tissue samples are often collected for analyses of gene expression to predict or monitor treatment effects. For correct analysis, sample stability during handling and transport is crucial. In developing the logistics for multicentre studies in malignant melanoma and inflammatory bowel disease, we found poor stability of a number of transcripts using the PAXgene™ Blood RNA System, which was advertised to maintain RNA stability for several days at room temperature. The results indicate that general statements on sample stability are not reliable and have to be verified for the specific transcripts of interest.
Reticulocyte hemoglobin measurement – comparison of two methods in the diagnosis of iron-restricted erythropoiesis
Authors: Thomas Lothar , Franck Susanne , Messinger Maren , Linssen Jo , Thomé Marcus , Thomas Christian
Published: October 2005

The aims of this study were to diagnose iron-restricted erythropoiesis (functional iron deficiency) in patients with classic iron deficiency (ID), anemia of chronic disease (ACD) and the combined state of ID/ACD with the use of two hematological methods for the measurement of reticulocyte hemoglobinization. In comparison, the biochemical markers of iron status were determined. We studied 474 anemic patients admitted to hospital with a broad spectrum of diseases. We measured indicators of reticulocyte hemoglobinization. CHr was determined on an Advia 120 hematology analyzer. A Sysmex XE-2100 hematology analyzer was used to determine RET-Y, the forward scatter of fluorescence-labeled reticulocytes, which can also be expressed as the reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (RET-H
Physical analysis of ejaculate to evaluate the secretory activity of the seminal vesicles and prostate
Authors: Tadeu Andrade-Rocha Fernando
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether analysis of the physical properties of ejaculate also has any diagnostic potential for evaluating the function of these accessory sex glands. Diverse normal and abnormal states of coagulation, liquefaction, volume, viscosity and pH were studied with regard to the levels of biochemical markers of the seminal vesicles (fructose and inorganic phosphorus) and prostate (calcium, zinc and acid phosphatase). Fructose and inorganic phosphorus were significantly decreased in samples with absent or poor coagulation (p<0.001), volume <2.0mL (p=0.009 and p<0.001, respectively), hypoviscosity (p=0.013 and p<0.001), hyperviscosity (p=0.006 and p<0.001) and pH ≤7.1 (p=0.018 and p<0.001). Also, fructose and inorganic phosphorus were significantly decreased in samples with liquefaction >120min (p=0.003) and pH >8.0 (p<0.001), respectively. Calcium, zinc and acid phosphatase activity were significantly increased in samples with absent or poor coagulation (p<0.001), and significantly decreased in samples with volume >5.0mL (p=0.007, p=0.034 and p=0.011) and pH >8.0 (p<0.001). Also, calcium and zinc were significantly increased in hypoviscous samples (p=0.012 and p=0.003), whereas the zinc concentration was significantly lower in hyperviscous samples (p=0.026). Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, pH showed the highest predictive power to identify prostate dysfunction (83.6%) and simultaneous prostate and seminal vesicle dysfunction (98.8%). Physical analysis of ejaculate was also found to be clinically useful for evaluating the secretory activity of the seminal vesicles and prostate. Abnormal coagulation, liquefaction, volume, viscosity and pH strongly suggest gland dysfunction.
Plasma levels of 7-hydroxymetabolites of dehydroepiandrosterone in healthy Central European aging men
Authors: Stárka Luboslav , Hampl Richard , Hanuš Miroslav , Matoušková Michaela , Hill Martin
Published: October 2005

Evidence has been accumulating that 7-hydroxyepimers of dehydroepiandrosterone may act as locally active immunomodulatory and immunoprotective agents, counteracting the actions of glucocorticoids. 7α- and 7β-hydroxylated metabolites of dehydroepiandrosterone are present in near nanomolar concentrations in human blood. Limited data have been available on its changes during the last decades of human life. We examined 213 healthy Central European males in age groups from 50 to 91years and determined both 7-hydroxyepimers, 7α- and 7β-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, in sera using specific radioimmunoassays. The age dependence of steroid levels was evaluated using one-way ANOVA. In men, a distinct decline in 7α-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone with age was observed. The curves for age dependence of 7-hydroxy metabolite levels in males resembled those previously determined for unconjugated dehydroepiandrosterone. The levels of both 7-hydroxylated epimers correlated excellently with each other.
Efficacy of three ELISA measurements of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Fernández-Suárez Antonio , Reneses Sonsoles , Wichmann Ingeborg , Criado Rita , Núñez Antonio
Published: October 2005

The objective of the present study was to determine the efficacy of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody detection in the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as well as to compare three commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits used to detect such antibodies. We analysed the presence of anti-CCP antibodies in the sera of 78 patients who had been newly referred from primary healthcare centres to the Early Polyarthritis Unit. We also included in the study a group of 50 healthy controls. None of the patients had previously received treatment for the disease. After 1-year follow-up, the diagnosis of RA was confirmed in 53 of these patients. The ELISA kits under study were IMMUNOSCAN RA (Euro-Diagnostica AB), QUANTA Lite™ CCP IgG ELISA (INOVA Diagnostic) and DIA-STAT™ Anti-CCP (Axis-Shield Diagnostics); the sensitivity obtained was 52.8%, 58.5% and 52.8%, respectively, with 100% specificity for all three kits. Anti-CCP antibodies detected the presence of RA in 26% of patients without positive rheumatoid factor (RF). The sum of anti-CCP antibodies or the presence of RF gave a sensitivity of up to 67%, with specificity ranging between 94 and 97%. Anti-CCP antibodies show high specificity for the diagnosis of RA. The three ELISAs analysed offer the same degree of diagnostic accuracy.
Analytical evaluation of the Dade Behring Dimension RxL automated N-Terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP) method and comparison with the Roche Elecsys 2010
Authors: Di Serio Francesca , Ruggieri Vincenzo , Varraso Lucia , De Sario Rosalisa , Mastrorilli Angela , Pansini Nicola
Published: October 2005

Methods to quantify B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal-propeptide (NT-proBNP) in plasma or serum samples are well established. We assessed the analytical performance of the Dimension RxL NT-proBNP method (Dade-Behring). Evaluation of different sample types was carried out. Controls and heparin plasma pools were used to determine the detection limit, precision, and linearity. Sample stability and the effect of interfering substances on the NT-proBNP concentrations were evaluated. Agreement between Dimension RxL and Elecsys 2010 (Roche Diagnostics) NT-proBNP methods was assessed. The influence of age and sex on NT-proBNP concentrations was evaluated in healthy subjects. Heparin plasma should be the matrix of choice. The detection limit was 2.0ng/L. The total imprecision was 2.6–3.6% for concentrations from 231 to 9471ng/L; mean NT-proBNP concentrations of 21 and 15ng/L were associated with coefficients of variation of 9.9% and 14.7%, respectively. The method was linear up to 32,650ng/L. There was no effect of temperature, freeze-thaw cycles and interfering substances. A bias was detected when Dimension RxL and Elecsys 2010 NT-proBNP methods were compared. Age and sex were significantly and independently related to NT-proBNP concentrations. The Dimension RxL NT-proBNP method, like the Elecsys 2010, is suitable for routine use in the diagnosis of heart failure.
The Spiritual Search in Shenzhen Adopting and Adapting China's Common Spiritual Heritage
Authors: Fan Lizhu , Whitehead Evelyn Eaton , Whitehead James D.
Published: October 2005

This is a study of the rapid development of religious beliefs and practices among middle-class Chinese in an urban environment. Its focus is recently arrived residents in the Special Economic Zone of Shenzhen on the border between mainland China and Hong Kong. Its findings indicate that the dynamics of economic modernization in Shenzhen have not led to a demise of religiousness. A current cohort of Shenzhen residents, having moved beyond an initial struggle for economic survival, now consciously confronts deeper questions of personal meaning. These residents are turning for spiritual nourishment to the deep resources of China's traditional spiritual heritage adopted and adapted to meet the demands of their new life context.
Evaluation of agricultural land use in Hugngary’s ’’three-border’’ region
Authors: Dobos A. , Kovács János , Nagy J.
Published: October 2005

The aim of the study was to determine the characteristics of Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg county in North-Eastern Hungary and to elaborate an environmentally sound agricultural strategy. 50% of Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg county is arable land (303,950 ha). After the change of regime there was no significant decrease in the size of the arable land. Cultivation is still practised on soils of poorer quality. Under the changed production conditions, crop cultivation in its present form does not come up to the economic expectations. The sowing structure is not suited to the regional climate and soil conditions; 75% of the arable land is occupied by only 5 species of plant. A change in the cultivation profile (afforestation) can be expected on connected marginal areas where economic calculations indicate that economical cultivation is not possible. A typical feature of the region's cereal production is that it takes up significantly more arable land than is justified: in recent years the average ratio of cereals was 60–65%. In certain microregions the production of protein fodders is recommended for the economical production of better quality meat. There has been an increase in the area sown to triticale, peas, beans and cucumber for seed production. The production of flowers, vegetables, spices and herbs should be promoted; these plants require manual work, so they could play a significant role in solving employment problems. On more unfavourable areas, suitable for the cultivation of agricultural products, the production of low-input plants (e.g. rye, triticale, sorghum) suitable for extensive cultivation should be considered. In small regions with favourable ecological and infrastructural situations the area sown to crops with greater production value and greater labour requirements can be expected to increase.
A NEW CHEMICAL BRASSINOLIDE IN COMBINATION WITH FERTILIZER LEVELS TO IMPROVE THE SEED SETTING PERCENTAGE IN SUNFLOWER
Authors: Chinnamuthu C. , Sivamurugan A. , Balasubramanian A.
Published: October 2005

Poor seed set and filling is one of the most common problems encountered in sunflower cultivation. The yield of sunflower could be increased to a considerable extent by using brassinolide, a plant growth promoting substance, isolated from the pollen of rape, which prevents the formation of empty achenes, thus increasing the number of filled seeds. Field experiments were carried out at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India during the summer (March–May) and South West Monsoon (June– September) seasons of 1997 to study the effect of brassinolide and NPK levels on the yield and yield attributes of sunflower. The experiments were laid out in a split plot design. The main plots were treated with five levels of fertilizer (N:P:K), namely 40:20:20, 50:25:25, 60:30:30, 70:35:35 and 80:40:40 kg ha -1, while the subplots consisted of seed setting treatments: hand pollination, 0.2% borax + 2% diammonium phosphate spray and 1 ppm brassinolide spray at the ray floret opening stage, together with a control. Yield attributes: head diameter, number of seeds head –1, seed filling percentage and 100 seed weight, were significantly influenced by NPK levels. Among the seed setting treatments, brassinsolide 1 ppm spray at the ray floret opening stage was found to be superior in enhancing the seed setting percentage. The application of N:P:K at 80:40:40 kg ha –1 was found to be optimum for higher seed yield in sunflower.
EVALUATION OF LIFETIME PRODUCTION OF TOP COWS IN DIFFERENT DAIRY BREEDS
Authors: Horvai Szabó M. , Dohy J. , Holló G.
Published: October 2005

Cows of different breeds with high lifetime production were analysed in order to choose the best producers for embryo donors. The cows were ranked based on their milk protein yield, and a rank correlation was calculated between milk and protein yield and age. The probability of a correlation breaker was also investigated. In the Swiss Simmental breed it was found that the lower the protein production, the lower the correlation. This tendency was characteristic for the Brown Swiss population, too. In the first Osnabrück Holstein subpopulation a close correlation (0.74) was found, but not in the other two. The ratio of correlation breakers in the three subpopulations was 12.5%, 33.3% and 56.3%. In populations of German Black & White and Red & White the correlation was very close (0.9 and 0.84, respectively). The ratio of correlation breakers was 26.7% and 22.2%. In the Hungarian Holstein population the correlation was weak (0.29), so the ratio of correlation breakers was relatively high. The value of the rank correlation coefficient between the milk fat and milk quantity of the top cows of the Jersey breed was 0.26, indicating a weak correlation. The ratio of correlation breakers was 36.4%.
CLUSTERING OF DIFFERENT TYPES IN A CHAROLAIS HERD
Authors: Tőzsér J. , Domokos Z. , Rusznák J. , Alföldi L.
Published: October 2005

Measurements were made in a nucleus herd of Charolais cows on pasture in early summer 1998. The average age and body weight of the cows were 6.8 years and 600 kg, respectively. Simultaneously to weighing, the following body parameters were measured with traditional measuring equipment (measuring rod and tape measure): height at withers (132.2±3.93 cm), rump width II (distance between the femoral necks) (52.1±2.74 cm), slanting body length (177.2±8.09 cm) and chest girth (194.5±8.50 cm). The average values in the group of pure-bred cows (n=17) were as follows: height at withers (137.2 cm), rump width II (55.6 cm), slanting body length (185.3 cm), chest girth (203.2 cm). In the group of cross-bred cows with a 50–69% Charolais gene ratio, the body size of the cows was poorer for each characteristic, as compared to the data of pure-bred individuals (height at withers: –5.3 cm, rump width II: –3.5 cm, slanting body length: –6.8 cm, chest girth: –7.3 cm). Two clusters were determined in the group of pure-breds: one was made up of young, moderately wide, small cows with low body weight and short body (1), and the other of young, but markedly wide, tall cows with high body weight and long body (2). The average values of the individuals in cluster 2 were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of animals in cluster 1, except for age.Cows with a 90–99% Charolais gene ratio were ranked into 4 clusters as follows: cluster 1: old cows with average body weight and size; cluster 2: average aged cows with low body weight, average height and short body; cluster 3: old cows with high body weight and long, wide body; cluster 4: young cows with low body weight and below-average body parameters. Comparing cows in clusters 2 and 4, cluster 2 was found to be superior for each body measurement and this difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Obviously, the average of the measurements in cluster 4 was significantly smaller than the data of cluster 3. Cows with an 80–89% Charolais gene ratio were also grouped in 4 clusters. These data suggest that applying cluster analysis to cow groups with similar gene ratios is a suitable method for ranking individuals of a certain population and as such for observing the variance within varieties.
EFFECT OF LONG-TERM APPLICATION OF MANURES AND FERTILIZERS ON CHANGES IN THE WEED SPECIES IN THE 138TH CROPPING UNDER RAINFED CONDITIONS
Authors: Kandasamy O. S. , Bayan H. C. , Devarajan L.
Published: October 2005

A field study was made at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India in a permanent fertilization experiment to assess the influence of the long-term application of manure and fertilizer schedules on changes in the weed flora and their growth in the 138th (rainfed) crop of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). The weed flora of the experimental field in the unfertilized plot at 50 days after sowing (DAS) consisted of 44.1% grasses, 26.4% sedges and 29.5% broad-leaved weeds, of which Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Beauv., Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Digera arvensis Forsk. and Phyllanthus maderaspatensis were the most dominant weed species. Maximum weed growth was recorded in the plot treated with cattle manure. A relative grain yield of 391% over the control was recorded in the balanced fertilizer plot (combined application of N, P and K).
PRELIMINARY EVALUATION OF IMPROVED MAIZE VARIETIES FOR TOLERANCE TO STRIGA HERMONTHICA AT MOKWA, NIGERIA
Authors: Usman A. , Adagba M. A. , Olaniyan G. O. , Adenihun M. A.
Published: October 2005

Five improved maize varieties including the local check (TZ SR - Y) were evaluated for their tolerance to Striga hermonthica in order to identify the most suitable, high yielding and adapted varieties for use in striga-infested areas at the Mokwa experimental station of the National Cereals Research Institute. The varieties were planted in plots consisting of four rows and the data were collected from the two inner rows. The striga emergence count at 12 weeks after sowing (WAS) along with the grain yield showed significant differences among the varieties. With the exception of the local check, variety ACR 94 TZE comp 5-w significantly out-yielded all the other varieties under investigation.
INFLUENCE OF TI(IV)-ASCORBATE ON SOLUBLE CARBOHYDRATE CONTENT IN WHEAT SEEDLINGS EXPOSED TO CADMIUM
Authors: KEREPESI I. , STEFANOVITS-BÁNYAI É , KISPÁL J , SÁRDI É.
Published: October 2005

The water-soluble carbohydrates contributing to the response of wheat seedlings to cadmium stress in nutrient solution were studied with or without Ti(IV)-ascorbate supply. The total water-soluble carbohydrate, glucose, fructose, sucrose, glucan and fructan contents, and the cadmium and titanium contents were measured in wheat seedlings exposed to 10-4 M Cd or 10-5M Cd with either Ti(IV)-ascorbate or Na-ascorbate in the medium. Glucose, fructose and fructan showed the greatest response to Cd, ascorbate and titanium treatments. The sugar content in plants exposed to Cd increased with the metal concentration. Titanium tended to decrease the cadmium-induced sugar accumulation. Ti(IV)-ascorbate and Na-ascorbate were also applied without Cd to study the effect of these chemicals. In general, Na-ascorbate induced a higher accumulation of sugar components than Ti(IV)-ascorbate. Titanium addition in Cd-containing solution caused a significant decrease in the cadmium accumulation in the leaves. An increase in titanium content was observed only in the roots, higher values being measured in plants grown in solution containing 10-4 M Cd.
Cold tolerance of inbred lines and sister line crosses of maize with different genetic backgrounds
Authors: Szundy T. , Pók I. , Marton L. C.
Published: October 2005

An improvement in the early spring cold tolerance of maize would allow it to be grown in more northern areas with a cooler climate, while on traditional maize-growing areas the profitability of maize production could be improved by earlier sowing, leading to a reduction in transportation and drying costs. The cold tolerance of crosses between inbred lines and sister line crosses belonging to three related groups that combine well with each other (BSSS, Iodent, Lancaster) was tested in the Martonvásár phytotron. The results confirmed those of earlier experiments and led to the following new conclusions: - the average emergence time of the tested Iodent inbred lines was longer than that of the BSSS and Lancaster groups, - all three groups contained inbred lines with significantly earlier emergence than the others, - the average emergence percentage and individual shoot dry matter production in the Iodent group were also lower than in the other two groups, - a close negative correlation (r = -0.70) was found between the number of days to emergence and the individual dry shoot mass. The results were used to select inbred lines and sister line crosses with various genetic backgrounds that could be used in crosses aimed at improving the resistance of hybrids to cold stress in early spring.
Effect of popcorn varieties from the Andes on the development of the early, hard-grained gene pool in Central Europe
Authors: Hadi G.
Published: October 2005

The ancestors of the early, multi-rowed, hard-grained flint maize varieties found in Central Europe, and also of some of the dent varieties, were in all probability Chutucuno Chico and Chutucuno Grande (Timothy et al., 1961), chilling-tolerant, daylength-insensitive, small-eared, multi-rowed, prolific, hard flint popcorn varieties with reddish-brown kernels originating from the slopes of the Andes and introduced into Hungary in the early 1800s via Italy (Nagyváthy, 1822). In Italy and Hungary these varieties were given the names Cinquantino and Pignoletto. In addition to these Andean sources, a considerable contribution to the hard-grained gene pool was also made by Hungarian flints of Caribbean origin, and to a lesser extent by Southern Dents and Corn Belt Dents, while Northern Flints played little role in its development. These maize varieties were grown chiefly for human consumption (in the form of porridge) and were exported to Italy, Slovenia and Romania. The high price paid for exported maize, the low yield and undesirably long vegetation period of the initial sources, and the need to improve the colour and ear fusarium resistance of commercial maize meant that breeding was begun as early as the 1850s. The data available indicate that in around 1856, probably for the first time in Europe but independently of each other, Pál Németh and Pál Máthé crossed Cinquantino with other varieties in order to produce new varieties. These varieties, and those later selected from them, played a role in the maize production of Hungary, Romania, Yugoslavia, Slovakia and other countries for a period of 100 years. In addition, they probably exerted a significant effect on the early flint gene pools of all European countries where the vegetation period is either extremely short or extremely cool.
Changes in the quality of maize hybrids in various agricultural management systems
Authors: Győri Z. , Sipos P. , Tóth Á.
Published: October 2005

Changes in the chemical contents of the kernels of maize hybrids were analysed in three consecutive years (one dry, one arid and one wet) in samples originating from irrigation and fertilisation experiments. The results indicated that while irrigation and wet years had a protein-decreasing effect, the water supply did not influence the starch and oil contents. Under the influence of fertilization, the calcium and zinc contents of maize kernels decreased to varying degrees depending on the hybrid, while the sulphur contents changed parallel to the protein contents. Based on these data and on the use of more modern measuring equipment, tables giving recommendations for chemical contents should be revised.