bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of cancer risk and BRCA1 and BRCA2mutation prevalence in the kConFab familial breast cancer resource
Authors: Mann Graham J , Thorne Heather , Balleine Rosemary L , Butow Phyllis N , Clarke Christine L , Edkins Edward , Evans Gerda M , Fereday Sián , Haan Eric , Gattas Michael , Giles Graham G , Goldblatt Jack , Hopper John L , Kirk Judy , Leary Jennifer A , Lindeman Geoffrey , Niedermayr Eveline , Phillips Kelly-Anne , Picken Sandra , Pupo Gulietta M , Saunders Christobel , Scott Clare L , Spurdle Amanda B , Suthers Graeme , Tucker Kathy , Chenevix-Trench Georgia ,   The Kathleen Cuningham Consortium for Research in Familial Breast Cancer
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Introduction
The Kathleen Cuningham Foundation Consortium for Research into Familial Breast Cancer (kConFab) is a multidisciplinary, collaborative framework for the investigation of familial breast cancer. Based in Australia, the primary aim of kConFab is to facilitate high-quality research by amassing a large and comprehensive resource of epidemiological and clinical data with biospecimens from individuals at high risk of breast and/or ovarian cancer, and from their close relatives.

Methods
Epidemiological, family history and lifestyle data, as well as biospecimens, are collected from multiple-case breast cancer families ascertained through family cancer clinics in Australia and New Zealand. We used the Tyrer-Cuzick algorithms to assess the prospective risk of breast cancer in women in the kConFab cohort who were unaffected with breast cancer at the time of enrolment in the study.

Results
Of kConFab's first 822 families, 518 families had multiple cases of female breast cancer alone, 239 had cases of female breast and ovarian cancer, 37 had cases of female and male breast cancer, and 14 had both ovarian cancer as well as male and female breast cancer. Data are currently held for 11,422 people and germline DNAs for 7,389. Among the 812 families with at least one germline sample collected, the mean number of germline DNA samples collected per family is nine. Of the 747 families that have undergone some form of mutation screening, 229 (31%) carry a pathogenic or splice-site mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2. Germline DNAs and data are stored from 773 proven carriers of BRCA1 or BRCA1 mutations. kConFab's fresh tissue bank includes 253 specimens of breast or ovarian tissue – both normal and malignant – including 126 from carriers of BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.

Conclusion
These kConFab resources are available to researchers anywhere in the world, who may apply to kConFab for biospecimens and data for use in ethically approved, peer-reviewed projects. A high calculated risk from the Tyrer-Cuzick algorithms correlated closely with the subsequent occurrence of breast cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation positive families, but this was less evident in families in which no pathogenic BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation has been detected.
Continuous infusion of ceftazidime in critically ill patients undergoing continuous venovenous haemodiafiltration: pharmacokinetic evaluation and dose recommendation
Authors: Mariat Christophe , Venet Christophe , Jehl François , Mwewa Sandrine , Lazarevic Vesna , Diconne Eric , Fonsale Nathalie , Carricajo Anne , Guyomarc'h Stéphane , Vermesch Régine , Aubert Gérald , Bidault Roselyne , Bertrand Jean-Claude , Zeni Fabrice 
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Introduction
In seriously infected patients with acute renal failure and who require continuous renal replacement therapy, data on continuous infusion of ceftazidime are lacking. Here we analyzed the pharmacokinetics of ceftazidime administered by continuous infusion in critically ill patients during continuous venovenous haemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) in order to identify the optimal dosage in this setting.

Method
Seven critically ill patients were prospectively enrolled in the study. CVVHDF was performed using a 0.6 m2 AN69 high-flux membrane and with blood, dialysate and ultrafiltration flow rates of 150 ml/min, 1 l/hour and 1.5 l/hour, respectively. Based on a predicted haemodiafiltration clearance of 32.5 ml/min, all patients received a 2 g loading dose of ceftazidime, followed by a 3 g/day continuous infusion for 72 hours. Serum samples were collected at 0, 3, 15 and 30 minutes and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 hours; dialysate/ultrafiltrate samples were taken at 2, 8, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours. Ceftazidime concentrations in serum and dialysate/ultrafiltrate were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results
The mean (± standard deviation) elimination half-life, volume of distribution, area under the concentration-time curve from time 0 to 72 hours, and total clearance of ceftazidime were 4 ± 1 hours, 19 ± 6 l, 2514 ± 212 mg/h per l, and 62 ± 5 ml/min, respectively. The mean serum ceftazidime steady-state concentration was 33.5 mg/l (range 28.8–36.3 mg/l). CVVHDF effectively removed continuously infused ceftazidime, with a sieving coefficient and haemodiafiltration clearance of 0.81 ± 0.11 and 33.6 ± 4 mg/l, respectively.

Conclusion
We conclude that a dosing regimen of 3 g/day ceftazidime, by continuous infusion, following a 2 g loading dose, results in serum concentrations more than four times the minimum inhibitory concentration for all susceptible pathogens, and we recommend this regimen in critically ill patients undergoing CVVHDF.
Effects of coagulation factor XIII on intestinal functional capillary density, leukocyte adherence and mesenteric plasma extravasation in experimental endotoxemia
Authors: Birnbaum Jürgen , Hein Ortrud Vargas , Lührs Carsten , Rückbeil Oskar , Spies Claudia , Ziemer Sabine , Gründling Matthias , Usichenko Taras , Meissner Konrad , Pavlovic Dragan , Kox Wolfgang J , Lehmann Christian 
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Introduction
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the administration of the coagulation factor XIII (F XIII) on intestinal functional capillary density, leukocyte adherence and mesenteric plasma extravasation during experimental endotoxemia.

Methods
In a prospective, randomized, controlled animal study 42 male Wistar rats were divided into three groups. Group 1 served as the control group. Groups 2 (lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group) and 3 (F XIII group) received endotoxin infusions (2.5 mg/kg/h for 2 hours). In group 3, 50 U/kg body weight F XIII was continuously administered during the first 30 minutes of endotoxemia. F XIII levels were measured in all animals. One half of the animals of each group were studied for intestinal functional capillary density (FCD) and leukocyte adherence on venular endothelium by intravital fluorescence microscopy (IVM). In the other half of each group, mesenteric plasma extravasation (FITC-albumin) was determined by IVM.

Results
The F XIII level was significantly increased in the F XIII treatment group. In the LPS group, endotoxemia led to a significant reduction of mucosal FCD (-18.5%; p < 0.01 versus control group). F XIII administration in the F XIII group attenuated the decrease in mucosal FCD (-3.7% compared to control; p < 0.05 versus LPS group). During endotoxemia, a significant increase of leukocyte adherence at the endothelium could be noted in the LPS group compared to the control group. Leukocyte adherence at the endothelium and plasma extravasation in the F XIII group did not differ significantly from the LPS group.

Conclusion
Factor XIII protected mucosal capillary perfusion against endotoxin-induced impairment in an experimental sepsis model in rats, whereas leukocyte adherence and plasma extravasation remained unchanged.
Toxicity of polymyxins: a systematic review of the evidence from old and recent studies
Authors: Falagas Matthew E , Kasiakou Sofia K 
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Background
The increasing problem of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria causing severe infections and the shortage of new antibiotics to combat them has led to the re-evaluation of polymyxins. These antibiotics were discovered from different species of Bacillus polymyxa in 1947; only two of them, polymyxin B and E (colistin), have been used in clinical practice. Their effectiveness in the treatment of infections due to susceptible Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii, has not been generally questioned. However, their use was abandoned, except in patients with cystic fibrosis, because of concerns related to toxicity.

Methods
We reviewed old and recent evidence regarding polymyxin-induced toxicity by searching Pubmed (from 1950 until May 2005).

Results
It was reported in the old literature that the use of polymyxins was associated with considerable toxicity, mainly nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, including neuromuscular blockade. However, recent studies showed that the incidence of nephrotoxicity is less common and severe compared to the old studies. In addition, neurotoxic effects of polymyxins are usually mild and resolve after prompt discontinuation of the antibiotics. Furthermore, cases of neuromuscular blockade and apnea have not been reported in the recent literature.

Conclusion
New evidence shows that polymyxins have less toxicity than previously reported. The avoidance of concurrent administration of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic drugs, careful dosing, as well as more meticulous management of fluid and electrolyte abnormalities and use of critical care services may be some of the reasons for the discrepancy between data reported in the old and recent literature.
Process monitoring in intensive care with the use of cumulative expected minus observed mortality and risk-adjusted p charts
Authors: Cockings Jerome GL , Cook David A , Iqbal Rehana K 
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Introduction
A health care system is a complex adaptive system. The effect of a single intervention, incorporated into a complex clinical environment, may be different from that expected. A national database such as the Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre (ICNARC) Case Mix Programme in the UK represents a centralised monitoring, surveillance and reporting system for retrospective quality and comparative audit. This can be supplemented with real-time process monitoring at a local level for continuous process improvement, allowing early detection of the impact of both unplanned and deliberately imposed changes in the clinical environment.

Methods
Demographic and UK Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) data were prospectively collected on all patients admitted to a UK regional hospital between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2004 in accordance with the ICNARC Case Mix Programme. We present a cumulative expected minus observed (E-O) plot and the risk-adjusted p chart as methods of continuous process monitoring. We describe the construction and interpretation of these charts and show how they can be used to detect planned or unplanned organisational process changes affecting mortality outcomes.

Results
Five hundred and eighty-nine adult patients were included. The overall death rate was 0.78 of predicted. Calibration showed excess survival in ranges above 30% risk of death. The E-O plot confirmed a survival above that predicted. Small transient variations were seen in the slope that could represent random effects, or real but transient changes in the quality of care. The risk-adjusted p chart showed several observations below the 2 SD control limits of the expected mortality rate. These plots provide rapid analysis of risk-adjusted performance suitable for local application and interpretation. The E-O chart provided rapid easily visible feedback of changes in risk-adjusted mortality, while the risk-adjusted p chart allowed statistical evaluation.

Conclusion
Local analysis of risk-adjusted mortality data with an E-O plot and a risk-adjusted p chart is feasible and allows the rapid detection of changes in risk-adjusted outcome of intensive care patients. This complements the centralised national database, which is more archival and comparative in nature.
Progesterone Signaling in Human Myometrium through Two Novel Membrane G Protein-Coupled Receptors: Potential Role in Functional Progesterone Withdrawal at Term
Authors: Karteris Emmanouil , Zervou Sevasti , Pang Yefei , Dong Jing , Hillhouse Edward W. , Randeva Harpal S. , Thomas Peter 
Published: February 2006

Abstract
Progestin withdrawal is a crucial event for the onset of labor in many mammalian species. However, in humans the mechanism of a functional progestin withdrawal is unclear, because progestin concentrations do not drop in maternal plasma preceding labor. We report the presence of two novel functional membrane progestin receptors (mPRs), mPRα and mPRβ, in human myometrium that are differentially modulated during labor and by steroids in vitro. The mPRs are coupled to inhibitory G proteins, resulting in a decline in cAMP levels and increased phosphorylation of myosin light chain, both of which facilitate myometrial contraction. Activation of mPRs leads to transactivation of PR-B, the first evidence for cross-talk between membrane and nuclear PRs. Progesterone activation of the mPRs leads also to a decrease of the steroid receptor coactivator 2. Our data indicate the presence of a novel signaling pathway mediated by mPRs that may result in a functional progestin withdrawal, shifting the balance from a quiescent state to one of contraction.
Microsurgical Cervical Nerve Root Decompression by Anterolateral Approach
Authors: Bruneau Michaël , Cornelius Jan Frédérick , George Bernard 
Published: February 2006

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
Cervical radiculopathy caused by a posterolateral soft disc herniation or spondylosis is a common pathology.

METHODS:
Decompression of a stressed cervical nerve root is a routine neurosurgical procedure. Most of the time it is achieved through an anterior approach and, less frequently, through a posterior approach in specific indications.

RESULTS:
According to the principles that an anterolateral compression must directly be reached and that working in the vicinity of the vertebral artery is safe under visual control, we developed the anterolateral approach to the cervical intervertebral foramen and the nerve root using a minimally invasive technique to remove the offending process.

CONCLUSION:
Microsurgical cervical nerve root decompression by anterolateral approach is a minimally invasive technique, permitting one to remove the offending process staightforwardly. The disc and bone resections are minimal. This method avoids osteoarthrodesis or arthroplasty with disc prosthesis. This technique is efficient with good results and low morbidity.
Intraorbital Arteriovenous Fistulae Of The Ophthalmic Veins Treated By Transvenous Endovascular Occlusion:Technical Case Report
Authors: Caragine Louis P. , Halbach Van V. , Dowd Chris F. , Higashida Randall T. 
Published: February 2006

Abstract

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE
Intraorbital arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) of the ophthalmic veins are an extremely rare phenomenon. This article describes two such cases treated solely by transvenous occlusion and not hitherto described in the literature.

METHODS AND RESULTS:
Two women, aged 51 and 63 years old, presented with proptosis and chemosis mimicking a carotid-cavernous fistula. In both cases, cerebral angiography revealed an intraorbital dural AVF of the superior and inferior ophthalmic vein, respectively. Both patients underwent transvenous ablation of the dural AVF retrograde via the facial vein and subsequently had complete resolution of the presenting symptoms.

METHODS:
Ophthalmic vein fistulas are a rare form of AVF with presenting symptoms mimicking those of carotid cavernous fistulae. This report describes two cases of ophthalmic vein fistulas successfully treated and angiographically obliterated via transvenous embolization with resolution of the patient's presenting symptoms.
Anatomy of Neurovascular Structures Around the Carpal Tunnel During Dynamic Wrist Motion for Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: Hong Jae Taek , Lee Sang Won , Han Seung Ho , Son Byung Chul , Sung Jae Hoon , Park Choon Keun , Park Chun Kun , Kang Joon Ki , Kim Moon Chan 
Published: February 2006

AbstractOBJECTIVE:The purpose of this study is to investigate the anatomic relationship between neurovascular structures and the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) so as to avoid complications during an endoscopic carpal tunnel release procedure.METHODS:Fresh cadaver hands from seven men and 12 women (age range, 48–74 yr) were used. The neurovascular structures just over and under the TCL were meticulously dissected under loupe magnification. Several anatomic landmarks were calculated (average length of the TCL; average distance between the TCL distal margin and the neurovascular structures; and average lengths of the superficial palmar arch, ramus communicantes, recurrent motor branch, and palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve). The ulnar neurovascular structure was studied with the wrist positioned in neutral, ulnar flexion, and radial flexion.RESULTS:The anatomic relationships between the TCL and vascular and neural structures were measured. The ulnar neurovascular structures usually passed just over ulnar to the superior portion of the hook of the hamate. However, in 11 hands, a looped ulnar artery coursed 1 to 4 mm radial to the hook of the hamate and continued to the superficial palmar arch. The looped ulnar artery migrates on the ulnar side of Guyon's canal (-2–2 mm radial to the hook of the hamate) with the wrist in radial flexion (of the wrist). During ulnar flexion of the wrist, the ulnar artery shifts more radially beyond the hook of the hamate (2–7 mm).CONCLUSION:It is appropriate to transect the ligament over 4 mm apart from the lateral margin of the hook of the hamate without placing the edge of the scalpel toward the ulnar side. We would also recommend not transecting the TCL in the ulnar flexed wrist position to protect the ulnar neurovascular structure. The proximal portal could be made just ulnar to the palmaris longus tendon to spare the neurovascular structures in the proximal portion of the TCL.
Subtemporal Approach To The Tentorial Incisura: Normative Morphometric Data Based On Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scans
Authors: Ardeshiri Ardeshir , Ardeshiri Ardavan , Wenger Emanuel , Holtmannspötter Markus , Winkler Peter A. 
Published: February 2006

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
The tentorial notch can be contained within a transversal line made in front of the cerebral peduncles and another line through the posterior border of the quadrigeminal plate into the anterior, middle and posterior parts. Different approaches to the tentorial incisura have been established. The subtemporal approach represents one of those options. Since morphometrical analyses of this approach in this region have not yet been performed, the aim of the present study was to measure the surgical corridor along these borders.

METHODS:
Fifty-three magnetization prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo-sequences of individual brains without pathological lesions were analyzed. For this study, an axial section along the pontomesencephalic sulcus and two coronal sections along the above-described borders were measured using a program specially written by one of the coauthors to obtain various parameters. A triangle circumscribing the surgical corridor was delimited by exactly defined anatomic landmarks for the coronal section, and the depths of the temporal lobe at the incisural borders were measured for the axial section.

RESULTS:
Various data are given concerning the surgical corridor of a subtemporal approach to the tentorial incisura. The different shapes of this corridor to the incisural region were recorded. According to our measurements, four different types of the temporal lobe could be differentiated.

CONCLUSION:
Knowledge of these distances and various contours of the path is crucial to avoid brain damage during retraction or manipulation. The curvature of the floor of the middle cranial fossa is highly variable and thus determines the surgical path chosen.
Antero-Lateral Approach To The V3 Segment Of The Vertebral Artery
Authors: Bruneau Michaël , Cornelius Jan Frederick , George Bernard 
Published: February 2006

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
We describe our surgical technique of exposure, control, and transposition of the third segment of the vertebral artery (VA V3 segment).

METHODS:
The VA V3 segment extends from the C2 transverse foramen to the dura mater of the foramen magnum. It initially courses vertically between the C2 and C1 transverse foramens, then runs horizontally over the atlas groove, and finally obliquely upwards before piercing the dura mater. Exposure of the VA V3 segment through an antero-lateral approach is performed by passing medially to the ster-nomastoid muscle. After exposure and protection of the spinal accessory nerve, the C1 transverse process is identified below and in front of the mastoid tip. The small muscles that insert on it are cut to expose the C1-C2 portion. The inferior aspect of the horizontal portion is safely separated from the atlas groove by elevating the subperiosteal plane and the superior aspect is freed by a cut a few millimeters above the VA on the occipital condyle. Complete unroofing of the C1 transverse foramen is achieved by resecting the bone while leaving intact the subperiosteal plane. The VA then can be transposed. Venous bleedings during the dissection from periosteal sheath tearing can be controlled by direct bipolar coagulation.

RESULTS:
The control of the VA V3 segment is essentially used for lesions in the VA vicinity and to improve the surgical exposure at the craniocervical junction level. Indications therefore are tumoral removal, VA decompression, and rarely, nowadays, VA revascularization.

CONCLUSION:
Perfect knowledge of the anatomy and the surgical technique permits a safe exposure, control, and transposition of the VA V3 segment. This is the first step of many surgical procedures.
The Orbitozygomatic Approach
Authors: Furth Wouter Ralph van , Agur Anne Maria R. , Woolridge Nicholas , Cusimano Michael D. 
Published: February 2006

AbstractOBJECTIVE:The orbitozygomatic approach is a modification and extension of the pterional craniotomy to gain a wider exposure of structures at a cranial base. To simplify the understanding and performance of the approach, we developed a teaching video that follows a systematic approach to the surgical anatomy and technique.METHODS:The authors have incorporated three-dimensional (3D) renderings into the descriptions of the surgical technique and contemporary computer animation is used to demonstrate surgical details and nuances of the procedure.RESULTS:A teaching video was compiled, and it was well received by neurosurgical residents in Europe and Canada.CONCLUSION:With mastery in the surgical laboratory and with guided supervision, the approach can be routinely applied without adding morbidity to a variety of pathologies such as aneurysms and tumors.