bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A high-density SNP genome-wide linkage search of 206 families identifies susceptibility loci for chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Sellick Gabrielle S. , Goldin Lynn R. , Wild Ruth W. , Slager Susan L. , Ressenti Laura , Strom Sara S. , Dyer Martin J. S. , Mauro Francesca R. , Marti Gerald E. , Fuller Stephen , Lyttelton Matthew , Kipps Thomas J. , Keating Michael J. , Call Timothy G. , Catovsky Daniel , Caporaso Neil , Houlston Richard S. 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders display familial aggregation. To identify a susceptibility gene for CLL, we assembled families from the major European (ICLLC) and American (GEC) consortia to conduct a genome-wide linkage analysis of 101 new CLL pedigrees using a high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array and combined the results with data from our previously reported analysis of 105 families. Here, we report on the combined analysis of the 206 families. Multipoint linkage analyses were undertaken using both nonparametric (model-free) and parametric (model-based) methods. After the removal of high linkage disequilibrium SNPs, we obtained a maximum nonparametric linkage (NPL) score of 3.02 (P = .001) on chromosome 2q21.2. The same genomic position also yielded the highest multipoint heterogeneity LOD (HLOD) score under a common recessive model of disease susceptibility (HLOD = 3.11; P = 7.7 × 10−5), which was significant at the genome-wide level. In addition, 2 other chromosomal positions, 6p22.1 (corresponding to the major histocompatibility locus) and 18q21.1, displayed HLOD scores higher than 2.1 (P < .002). None of the regions coincided with areas of common chromosomal abnormalities frequently observed in CLL. These findings provide direct evidence for Mendelian predisposition to CLL and evidence for the location of disease loci.
Grey scale enhancement by a new self-made contrast agent in early cirrhotic stage of rabbit liver
Authors: Zhang Li , Duan Yun-You , Yin Ji-Kai , Cui Ji-Hong , Zhang Yong , Cao Tie-Sheng 
Published: August 2007

Abstract

Background
The development of new ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) has become one of the most promising fields in ultrasound medicine. This paper evaluates a new self-made contrast agent enhancement effect developed to study the fibrotic stages of the liver in perfusion models in vivo.

Methods
We constructed experimental models of hepatic fibrosis involving five stages from F0 to F4 via administration of CCL4 (0.01 ml/kg BW) every 3 days for 3 months. The intrahepatic circulatory time of the contrast agent was analyzed via an image and Cine-loop display. Calculations of the perfusion-related parameters including the peak signal intensity (PSI) and peak signal intensity time (PIT) of the portal vein and parenchyma were obtained from an analysis of the time-acoustic intensity curve.

Results
Hepatic artery to vein transmit time (HA-HVTT) was significantly shorter at F4 stage (mean 5.1 seconds) compared with those in other stages (mean 8.3 s, 7.5 s, 6.9 s, 6.6 s, P < 0.01). The average PSI difference of PV-parenchyma was 13.62 dB in F4 stage, demonstrating significant differences between F4 stage and other early stages (P < 0.001).

Conclusion
These results indicate that the new self-made contrast agent is capable of indicating intrahepatic hemodynamic changes. HA-HVTT and the PSI difference of the microbubble perfusion in liver parenchyma and PV were considered to differentiate the degree of hepatic fibrosis between F4 and other early stages.
High prevalence of extrapyramidal signs and symptoms in a group of Italian dental technicians
Authors: Fabrizio Edito , Vanacore Nicola , Valente Marcella , Rubino Alfonso , Meco Giuseppe 
Published: August 2007

Abstract

Background
Occupational and chronic exposure to solvents and metals is considered a possible risk factor for Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. While manufacturing dental prostheses, dental technicians are exposed to numerous chemicals that contain toxins known to affect the central nervous system, such as solvents (which contain n-hexane in particular) and metals (which contain mercury, iron, chromium, cobalt and nickel).

Methods
We performed an epidemiological and clinical study on all 27 dental technicians working in a school for dental technicians. We asked all the technicians to fill in a self-administered questionnaire on extrapyramidal symptoms, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), a self-administered screening instrument, to detect any psychiatric disorders. Moreover, we invited all 27 dental technicians to undergo a neurological examination and provide a detailed occupational history in our clinic.

Results
Of the 14 subjects who underwent the neurological examination, four had postural tremor and one had a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.

Conclusion
We found a high prevalence of extrapyramidal signs and symptoms in this group of male dental technicians working in a state technical high school in Rome. We believe that this finding may be due to the presence of toxins in the dental technician's work.
The use of the transition cost accounting system in health services research
Authors: Azoulay Arik , Doris Nadine M , Filion Kristian B , Caron Joanna , Pilote Louise , Eisenberg Mark J 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
The Transition cost accounting system integrates clinical, resource utilization, and financial information and is currently being used by several hospitals in Canada and the United States to calculate the costs of patient care. Our objectives were to review the use of hospital-based cost accounting systems to measure costs of treatment and discuss potential use of the Transition cost accounting system in health services research. Such systems provide internal reports to administrators for formulating major policies and strategic plans for future activities. Our review suggests that the Transition cost accounting information system may useful for estimating in-hospital costs of treatment.
Safety of rFVIIa in hemodynamically unstable polytrauma patients with traumatic brain injury: post hocanalysis of 30 patients from a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial
Authors: Kluger Yoram , Riou Bruno , Rossaint Rolf , Rizoli Sandro B , Boffard Kenneth David , Choong Philip Iau Tsau , Warren Brian , Tillinger Michael 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Background
Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity, with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and uncontrolled hemorrhage responsible for the majority of these deaths. Recombinant activated factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is being investigated as an adjunctive hemostatic treatment for bleeding refractory to conventional replacement therapy in trauma patients. TBI is a common component of polytrauma injuries. However, the combination of TBI with polytrauma injuries is associated with specific risk factors and treatment modalities somewhat different from those of polytrauma without TBI. Although rFVIIa treatment may offer added potential benefit for patients with combined TBI and polytrauma, its safety in this population has not yet been assessed. We conducted a post hoc sub analysis of patients with TBI and severe blunt polytrauma enrolled into a prospective, international, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

Methods
A post hoc analysis of study data was performed for 143 patients with severe blunt trauma enrolled in a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of intravenous rFVIIa (200 + 100 + 100 μg/kg) or placebo, to identify patients with a computed tomography (CT) diagnosis of TBI. The incidences of ventilator-free days, intensive care unit-free days, and thromboembolic, serious, and adverse events within the 30-day study period were assessed in this cohort.

Results
Thirty polytrauma patients (placebo, n = 13; rFVIIa, n = 17) were identified as having TBI on CT. No significant differences in rates of mortality (placebo, n = 6, 46%, 90% confidence interval (CI): 22% to 71%; rFVIIa, n = 5, 29%, 90% CI: 12% to 56%; P = 0.19), in median numbers of intensive care unit-free days (placebo = 0, rFVIIa = 3; P = 0.26) or ventilator-free days (placebo = 0, rFVIIa = 10; P = 0.19), or in rates of thromboembolic adverse events (placebo, 15%, 90% CI: 3% to 51%; rFVIIa, 0%, 90% CI: 0% to 53%; P = 0.18) or serious adverse events (placebo, 92%, 90% CI: 68% to 98%; rFVIIa, 82%, 90% CI: 60% to 92%; P = 0.61) were observed between treatment groups.

Conclusion
The use of a total dose of 400 (200 + 100 + 100) μg/kg rFVIIa in this group of hemodynamically unstable polytrauma patients with TBI was not associated with an increased risk of mortality or with thromboembolic or adverse events.
Human immature monocyte-derived dendritic cells produce and secrete α-defensins 1–3
Authors: Rodríguez-García Marta , Oliva Harold , Climent Núria , García Felipe , Gatell José M , Gallart Teresa 
Published: August 2007

AbstractDefensins are effector molecules of the innate immunity with a broad antimicrobial spectrum, including HIV. They also link innate and adaptive immunity, displaying chemotactic activity for monocytes, T cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). α-Defensins 1–3 are mainly produced by neutrophils, but their production by other leukocyte subsets has also been reported. Herein, we studied whether monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs), which are regarded as a model for myeloid DCs, produce α-defensins 1–3. We found that immature MDDCs (imMDDCs) produce α-defensins 1–3 mRNA, but this production is undetectable or barely detectable following 48 h of maturation with the proinflammatory cytokine cocktail (IL-1β+IL-6+TNF-α) or LPS. It is surprising that α-defensins 1–3 production was up-regulated when exposed to each one of the proinflammatory cytokines alone, especially IL-1β. α-Defensins 1–3 produced by imMDDCs were mainly secreted peptides. Production and secretion of α-defensins 1–3 by imMDDCs can have biological relevance for the antigen processing of pathogens and can contribute to understanding differences in susceptibility to infections, an issue of special interest in the field of HIV infection.
Time-Dependent Prognostic Scoring System for Predicting Survival and Leukemic Evolution in Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Malcovati Luca , Germing Ulrich , Kuendgen Andrea , Della Porta Matteo G. , Pascutto Cristiana , Invernizzi Rosangela , Giagounidis Aristoteles , Hildebrandt Barbara , Bernasconi Paolo , Knipp Sabine , Strupp Corinna , Lazzarino Mario , Aul Carlo , Cazzola Mario 
Published: August 2007

Purpose The aims of this study were to identify the most significant prognostic factors in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) taking into account both their values at clinical onset and their changes in time and to develop a dynamic model for predicting survival and leukemic evolution that can be applied at any time during the course of the disease. Patients and Methods We studied a learning cohort of 426 MDS patients diagnosed at the Department of Hematology, San Matteo Hospital, Pavia, Italy, between 1992 and 2004, and a validation cohort of 739 patients diagnosed at the Heinrich-Heine-University Hospital, Düsseldorf, Germany, between 1982 and 2003. All patients were reclassified according to WHO criteria. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed using Cox models with time-dependent covariates. Results The most important variables for the prognostic model were WHO subgroups, karyotype, and transfusion requirement. We defined a WHO classification–based prognostic scoring system (WPSS) that was able to classify patients into five risk groups showing different survivals (median survival from 12 to 103 months) and probabilities of leukemic evolution (P < .001). WPSS was shown to predict survival and leukemia progression at any time during follow-up (P < .001), and its prognostic value was confirmed in the validation cohort. Conclusion WPSS is a dynamic prognostic scoring system that provides an accurate prediction of survival and risk of leukemic evolution in MDS patients at any time during the course of their disease. This time-dependent system seems particularly useful in lower risk patients and may be used for implementing risk-adapted treatment strategies.
Impact of Complete Response to Chemotherapy on Overall Survival in Advanced Colorectal Cancer: Results From Intergroup N9741
Authors: Dy Grace K. , Krook James E. , Green Erin M. , Sargent Daniel J. , Delaunoit Thierry , Morton Roscoe F. , Fuchs Charles S. , Ramanathan Ramesh K. , Williamson Stephen K. , Findlay Brian P. , Pockaj Barbara A. , Sticca Robert P. , Alberts Steven R. , Pitot Henry C. , Goldberg Richard M. 
Published: August 2007

Purpose To evaluate clinical characteristics and survival outcomes among patients with locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer who achieve a complete response (CR) to systemic treatment either alone or with multimodality approach. Patients and Methods Data were collected retrospectively from CRC patients enrolled onto the phase III trial N9741, a National Cancer Institute–funded and Gastrointestinal Cancer Intergroup–sponsored study coordinated by the North Central Cancer Treatment Group. Patients were randomly assigned to combinations of oxaliplatin, fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) and irinotecan. The three treatment arms consist of IFL (irinotecan + FU/LV), FOLFOX4 (oxaliplatin + FU/LV), and IROX (irinotecan + oxaliplatin). Median follow-up was 42.6 months. Results Sixty-two (4%) of 1,508 patients had a CR to chemotherapy alone, and an additional 32 (2%) had a CR after multimodality treatment. Factors associated with achieving CR with systemic chemotherapy alone included FOLFOX4 treatment, patients with assessable disease, or a single site of metastasis. Continuing protocol treatment beyond two cycles after documentation of CR was not associated with improved survival. The rate of curative intent resection was significantly higher for patients treated with oxaliplatin-containing regimens (P = .02). Median survival was similar between patients with CR after chemotherapy alone (44.3 months) or after multimodality approach (47.4 months; P = .81). Conclusion FOLFOX4 was more likely to produce a CR than were IFL or IROX. Oxaliplatin regimens were more likely to result in successful surgical resections. Patients who have CR to systemic chemotherapy alone can achieve impressive survival outcomes similar to those seen among patients who attained a CR status after multimodality treatment.
Donepezil for Cancer Fatigue: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Bruera Eduardo , El Osta Badi , Valero Vicente , Driver Larry C. , Pei Be-Lian , Shen Loren , Poulter Valerie A. , Palmer J. Lynn 
Published: August 2007

Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of donepezil compared with placebo in cancer patients with fatigue as measured by the Functional Assessment for Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue (FACIT-F). Patients and Methods Patients with fatigue score ≥ 4 on a scale of 0 to 10 (0 = no fatigue, 10 = worst possible fatigue) for more than 1 week were included. Patients were randomly assigned to receive donepezil 5 mg or placebo orally every morning for 7 days. A research nurse contacted the patients by telephone daily to assess toxicity and fatigue level. All patients were offered open-label donepezil during the second week. FACIT-F and/or the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) were assessed at baseline, and days 8, 11, and 15. The FACIT-F fatigue subscale score on day 8 was considered the primary end point. Results Of 142 patients randomly assigned to treatment, 47 patients in the donepezil group and 56 in the placebo group were assessable for final analysis. Fatigue intensity improved significantly on day 8 in both donepezil and placebo groups. However, there was no significant difference in fatigue improvement by FACIT-F (P = .57) or ESAS (P = .18) between groups. In the open-label phase, fatigue intensity continued to be low as compared with baseline. No significant toxicities were observed. Conclusion Donepezil was not significantly superior to placebo in the treatment of cancer-related fatigue.
Tyramine-Mediated Activation of Sympathetic Nerves Inhibits Insulin Secretion in Humans
Authors: Gilliam Lisa K. , Palmer Jerry P. , Taborsky Gerald J. 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Context: Older studies have shown that high doses of norepinephrine infused into human subjects can inhibit insulin secretion. Similar inhibition during electrical stimulation of sympathetic nerves in animals raises the possibility that the suppression of insulin secretion seen in humans could reflect a physiological effect of sympathetic nerves on islet β-cells. However, a direct test of the hypothesis that moderate and selective activation of these nerves is sufficient to inhibit insulin secretion in humans is lacking.
Objective: We sought to test this hypothesis by releasing moderate amounts of endogenous norepinephrine selectively from the sympathetic nerves of normal human subjects by infusing them with low doses of the indirect sympathomimetic agent tyramine.
Methods: During a single study visit, 11 healthy subjects received iv injections of arginine either alone or in combination with a low-dose tyramine infusion. Physiological (blood pressure) and biochemical (insulin, glucose, and norepinephrine) parameters were measured.
Results: The acute insulin response to arginine was significantly reduced during tyramine compared with that seen in the absence of tyramine (P = 0.036).
Conclusions: These data suggest that moderate and selective activation of sympathetic nerves inhibits insulin release in humans.
Current management of popliteal fossa incompetent superficial venous systems
Authors: Kambal A , Bicknell C , Najem M , Renton S , Hussain S T 
Published: August 2007

Objectives: Controversy exists regarding the management of varicose veins at the level of the popliteal fossa. This questionnaire reviews the current practice of vascular surgeons. Methods: A postal questionnaire was sent to 440 consultant surgeon members of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Recipients were asked to indicate their current practice of investigation and management of small saphenous (SSV), gastrocnemius and Giacomini varicosities. Results: We have received 296 (67%) responses to the questionnaire. Duplex scanning is utilized by 275 (93%) for the initial assessment of patients. Preoperatively, 188 (64%) reuse duplex scanning to mark the saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) site, 53 (18%) mark with handheld Doppler only and 24 (8%) do not mark the SPJ. At operation, 198 (67%) flush ligate the SPJ and 87 (29%) tie the SSV 2–3 cm from the junction. A total of 101 (34%) usually strip the SSV to various levels. In symptomatic patients, 158 (53%) ligate the SPJ when an incompetent segment of SSV with a competent SPJ exists. One hundred and sixty-nine (57%) disconnect incompetent gastrocnemius veins during SPJ surgery and 172 (58%) regularly look for the Giacomini vein. Routine follow-up after surgery is practised by 172 (58%), most commonly at six weeks. This is mostly (88%) by clinical examination, with 14 (8.1%) using duplex scanning and six (4.7%) using a nurse-run clinic for the follow-up. Conclusions: This review suggests marked variation in the management of popliteal fossa venous incompetence. There is a clear need for further research to clarify the role of ablation in the management of symptoms and skin changes.
Restless legs syndrome in patients with chronic venous disorders: an untold story
Authors: McDonagh B , King T , Guptan R C 
Published: August 2007

Objectives: To prospectively study the profile of restless leg syndrome (RLS) in patients presenting to a phlebology practice. Methods: The study uses prospective questionnaire and clinical observation study. In all, 174 consecutive patients and 174 matched controls were evaluated in detail. The diagnosis of restless legs syndrome (RLS) was established by the International RLS study group (IRLSSG) criteria. Detailed clinical, systemic and Duplex ultrasound evaluations were done to establish the presence of chronic venous disorders (CVD) (reflux > 0.5s on augmentation manoeuvers and revised clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathological [CEAP] criteria). Results: Of the 174 consecutive subjects studied (22M: 152F), 63 (36%) had evidence of RLS compared with only 34 of 174 of the controls (19%, P <0.05). Sixty-two (98%) of these RLS-positive study subjects were subsequently diagnosed with CVD. In comparison, 31 (91%) of the RLS-positive control subjects ( n = 34) were found to have CVD. This prevalence of CVD was comparable with RLS-positive study subjects, but was significantly higher than the prevalence in CVD in RLS-negative controls ( P <0.01). Only three (9%) of the controls had RLS without CVD. RLS-positive subjects were typically women above the age of 40 years ( P <0.01 vs. men, P <0.01 vs. below 40 years). A significant difference in clinical presentation in the study subjects was the high prevalence of leg cramps in the RLS-positive subjects ( P <0.01). None of the patients with RLS in this series gave history of anaemia, chronic renal failure or an established psychiatric or neurological disease as found pathognomic for RLS by others. Conclusions: RLS appears to be a common overlapping clinical syndrome in patients with CVD. Prospective blinded therapeutic trials are planned to study the influence of definitive treatments for CVD on sequential RLS scores.
Risk Factors for Developing Gadolinium-Induced Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Authors: Peak Amy S , Sheller Amy 
Published: August 2007

Objective: To identify medications and other potential risk factors, in addition to renal dysfunction, for developing gadolinium-induced nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Data Sources: Information was obtained from PubMed, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Iowa Drug Information Service, and Google Scholar, using the unlimited search terms nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, NSF, nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy, NFD, gadolinium, gadodiamide, gadoversetamide, gadopentetate, gadobenate, and gadoteridol. Information was also obtained from the Food and Drug Administration, as well as the manufacturers of the above-mentioned products. Data were collected during April and May 2007. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All identified articles and information were evaluated. Articles and other information that included data regarding concurrent medications, disease states, and other risk factors for developing gadolinium-induced NSF were included in this review, as were clinical practice guidelines. Data Synthesis: NSF is a mysterious and severe disorder that occurs in individuals with severe renal impairment. Virtually all cases of NSF have been associated with the administration of gadolinium-containing contrast media. However, not all renally impaired patients who receive gadolinium develop NSF. Thus, additional risk factors for the development of NSF have been suggested. These risk factors include medications that could cause transmetallation of gadolinium, medications that could cause acidosis, and high doses of erythropoietin. Concomitant medical conditions, including hyperphosphatemia, acidosis, recent surgery, hepatic disease, hypercoagulability, and proinflammatory processes may also predispose patients to NSF. Conclusions: Gadolinium-based contrast agents should be avoided in patients with significant renal impairment unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If gadolinium is required, nonionic linear chelates (eg, gadodiamide, gadoversetamide) should not be used. Renally impaired individuals who require gadolinium should be screened proactively for underlying disease states and concomitant drugs that may increase their risk of developing NSF; therapy should be adjusted accordingly.