bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging of complete rat sections using a triple quadrupole linear ion trap
Authors: Hopfgartner Gérard , Varesio Emmanuel , Stoeckli Markus 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe fast imaging of complete rat sections by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization on a triple quadrupole linear ion trap is demonstrated. After administration of the pharmaceutical compound (MW = 467.4 u) at 0.5 mg/kg the parent drug could be identified in full scan mode and in the enhanced product ion spectrum mode. Furthermore, the precursor ion mode could also be used to monitor the presence of the parent drug in the tissue section. In the selected reaction monitoring mode, using a laser frequency of 1000 Hz and a rastering speed of about 18 mm/s, a targeted representative image of drug distribution in a rat section could be obtained in less than 15 min. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling disease‐state transition heterogeneity through Bayesian variable selection
Authors: Healy Brian C. , Engler David 
Published: February 2009

AbstractIn many diseases, Markov transition models are useful in describing transitions between discrete disease states. Often the probability of transitioning from one state to another varies widely across subjects. This heterogeneity is driven, in part, by a possibly unknown number of previous disease states and by potentially complex relationships between clinical data and these states. We propose use of Bayesian variable selection in Markov transition models to allow estimation of subject‐specific transition probabilities. Our approach simultaneously estimates the order of the Markov process and the transition‐specific covariate effects. The methods are assessed using simulation studies and applied to model disease‐state transition on the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients from the Partners MS Center in Boston, MA. The proposed methodology is shown to accurately identify complex covariate–transition relationships in simulations and identifies a clinically significant interaction between relapse history and EDSS history in MS patients. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian multivariate disease mapping and ecological regression with errors in covariates: Bayesian estimation of DALYs and ‘preventable’ DALYs
Authors: MacNab Ying C. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThis paper presents Bayesian multivariate disease mapping and ecological regression models that take into account errors in covariates. Bayesian hierarchical formulations of multivariate disease models and covariate measurement models, with related methods of estimation and inference, are developed as an integral part of a Bayesian disability adjusted life years (DALYs) methodology for the analysis of multivariate disease or injury data and associated ecological risk factors and for small area DALYs estimation, inference, and mapping. The methodology facilitates the estimation of multivariate small area disease and injury rates and associated risk effects, evaluation of DALYs and ‘preventable’ DALYs, and identification of regions to which disease or injury prevention resources may be directed to reduce DALYs. The methodology interfaces and intersects the Bayesian disease mapping methodology and the global burden of disease framework such that the impact of disease, injury, and risk factors on population health may be evaluated to inform community health, health needs, and priority considerations for disease and injury prevention. A burden of injury study on road traffic accidents in local health areas in British Columbia, Canada, is presented as an illustrative example. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multivariate modelling of responses to conditional items: New possibilities for latent class analysis
Authors: Spycher B. D. , Minder C. E. , Kuehni C. E. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractQuestionnaire data may contain missing values because certain questions do not apply to all respondents. For instance, questions addressing particular attributes of a symptom, such as frequency, triggers or seasonality, are only applicable to those who have experienced the symptom, while for those who have not, responses to these items will be missing. This missing information does not fall into the category ‘missing by design’, rather the features of interest do not exist and cannot be measured regardless of survey design. Analysis of responses to such conditional items is therefore typically restricted to the subpopulation in which they apply. This article is concerned with joint multivariate modelling of responses to both unconditional and conditional items without restricting the analysis to this subpopulation. Such an approach is of interest when the distributions of both types of responses are thought to be determined by common parameters affecting the whole population. By integrating the conditional item structure into the model, inference can be based both on unconditional data from the entire population and on conditional data from subjects for whom they exist. This approach opens new possibilities for multivariate analysis of such data. We apply this approach to latent class modelling and provide an example using data on respiratory symptoms (wheeze and cough) in children. Conditional data structures such as that considered here are common in medical research settings and, although our focus is on latent class models, the approach can be applied to other multivariate models. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How can the Yelkouan shearwater survive feral cat predation? A meta‐population structure as a solution?
Authors: Bonnaud Elsa , Bourgeois Karen , Vidal Eric , Legrand Jérôme , Le Corre Matthieu 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe Yelkouan shearwater, Puffinus yelkouan, is an endangered Mediterranean endemic species of burrowing petrel threatened by feral cats. The life‐history parameters of a small population of Yelkouan shearwaters on the Mediterranean island, Port‐Cros, were studied in conjunction with the diet of feral cats, to examine the birds’ vulnerability to introduced cats. Yelkouan shearwaters were the birds most frequently found in cat scats, with 431 ± 72 birds killed per year, and predation highest during the pre‐laying period. A demographic model was created using data for P. yelkouan and for closely related shearwater species. Without cat predation, only two of four survival rate scenarios led to a mean growth rate (λ) ≥ 1. The model was constrained to have a stable population growth rate and used to predict predation scenarios compatible with the observed population stability, because the population under study has remained stable at around 180 pairs for at least 20 years despite feral cat predation. The results of assuming that the population is closed were inconsistent with the estimated mortalities due to feral cats, while it was possible to reconcile the observed numbers of breeding pairs with the observed mortalities due to cats by assuming that Port‐Cros Island is a sink sustained by immigration. This illustrates that small colonies may need to be sustained by larger ones to avoid being driven to extinction. Unfortunately, the absence of a large geographic‐scale ringing program makes the precise identification of the origin of the immigrants impossible in this case.
Null model analyses of presence–absence matrices need a definition of independence
Authors: Navarro‐Alberto Jorge A. , Manly Bryan F. J. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractTests for species interactions that involve the comparison of a statistic calculated from observed matrix of species presences and absences with the distribution of the same statistic generated from a null model have been used by ecologists for about 30 years. We argue that the validity of these tests requires a specific definition of independence. In particular, we note that an assumption that is often made is that all presence–absence matrices with the same row and column totals are equally likely if there is no interaction. However, we show using a simple model for species presences and absences without any species interactions that, in general, this assumption should be made with caution. Our model incorporates a definition of independence, allowing the computation of probabilities of different patterns in the null matrices. Other definitions of independence are possible; one of them is outlined using a new generalized linear model approach for carrying out tests applicable to different null models with or without the assumption of keeping row and column totals fixed.
Cancer Genetic Counselees’ Self‐Reported Psychological Distress, Changes in Life, and Adherence to Recommended Surveillance Programs 3–7 Years Post Counseling
Authors: Hayat Roshanai Afsaneh , Rosenquist Richard , Lampic Claudia , Nordin Karin 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe aim of the present cross‐sectional study was to investigate psychological distress, changes in life, adherence to surveillance programs and satisfaction with cancer genetic counseling based on Swedish participants’ self‐reported data. A total of 218 probands (72% response rate) affected by breast, breast/ovarian or colorectal cancer and/or a family history of cancer were surveyed 3–7 years after receiving cancer genetic counseling. Participants reported a relatively high level of anxiety and a low level of depression. Probands affected by colorectal cancer reported a higher level of depression than did non‐affected individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer. Overall, the participants reported moderate changes in family relations, priorities and appreciation of daily life activities. The majority of at‐risk probands reportedly adhered to recommended surveillance programs. The mean level of satisfaction with cancer genetic counseling was high. About half of the participants would have accepted additional counseling sessions, contact with a psychologist or further help concerning informing family members. The present results indicate no adverse effects of genetic counseling, but they do suggest that typical counseling procedures could be improved by provision of additional psychosocial support.
First-Principles Study of Magnetic Properties of 3d Transition Metals Doped in ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Shi Hongliang , Duan Yifeng 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
The defect formation energies of transition metals (Cr, Fe, and Ni) doped in the pseudo-H passivated ZnO nanowires and bulk are systematically investigated using first-principles methods. The general chemical trends of the nanowires are similar to those of the bulk. We also show that the formation energy increases as the diameter of the nanowire decreases, indicating that the doping of magnetic ions in the ZnO nanowire becomes more difficult with decreasing diameter. We also systematically calculate the ferromagnetic properties of transition metals doped in the ZnO nanowire and bulk, and find that Cr ions of the nanowire favor ferromagnetic state, which is consistent with the experimental results. We also find that the ferromagnetic coupling state of Cr is more stable in the nanowire than in the bulk, which may lead to a higherT
cuseful for the nano-materials design of spintronics.
The pain of nasal tampon removal after nasal surgery: A randomized control trial
Authors: Chheda Neil , Katz Arnold E. , Gynizio Lori , Singer Adam J. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the pain and discomfort associated with the removal of two commercially available nasal tampons after nasal surgery.Study DesignProspective, paired, randomized clinical trial.SubjectsConsecutive, consenting, adult patients undergoing nasal surgery.InterventionsThe nose was packed with a Rapid Rhino tampon (Applied Therapeutics, Tampa, FL) on one side and a Rhino Rocket tampon (Shippert Medical Technologies Corporation, Centennial, CO) on the other.OutcomesThe pain of packing removal was assessed with a validated 100‐mm visual analog scale. Patient satisfaction was measured on a Likert scale from 1 to 5.ResultsIn all 13 patients, the pain of removal was greater with the Rhino Rocket Tampon (82.7 ± 20.9 mm) than with the Rapid Rhino tampon (12.0 ± 11.9 mm); the mean difference was 70.7 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.1–78.2 mm; P < 0.0001). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher with the Rapid Rhino nasal tampon (4.6 ± 1.1 vs 1.5 ± 0.7; mean difference 3.1 [95% CI, 2.6–3.6]; P < 0.001).ConclusionsRemoval of the Rapid Rhino nasal tampon was significantly less painful and was associated with higher patient satisfaction than the removal of the Rhino Rocket nasal tampon.
Hemostasis during functional endoscopic sinus surgery: The effect of local infiltration with adrenaline
Authors: Lee Ta‐Jen , Huang Chi‐Che , Chang Po‐Hung , Chang Chee‐Jen , Chen Yi‐Wei 
Published: February 2009

ObjectivesTo determine the feasibility of the use of a topical vasoconstrictor for hemostasis during functional endoscopic sinus surgery.Study DesignCase‐control study.Subjects and MethodsFrom May 1998 to August 2002, 226 patients (injection group) with bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis received an adrenaline injection for hemostasis during functional endoscopic sinus surgery at our tertiary referral center. After September 2002, topical adrenaline was applied for hemostasis in 226 consecutive patients (noninjection group) who underwent the same surgery. The two groups were matched by age, sex, body weight, stage of chronic rhinosinusitis, and pre‐anesthesia blood pressure. The hemostatic effects in each group were analyzed.ResultsNo statistically significant differences in operation time and intraoperative blood loss were reached between the two groups of patients.ConclusionsTopical use of adrenaline achieved similar hemostatic effect compared with injection of adrenaline. Intranasal injection of a vasoconstrictor, in consideration of its adverse effects, may be avoided during surgery.
The preventive effect of ginkgo biloba extract in myringosclerosis: Study in rats
Authors: Emir Hatice , Kaptan Zeynep Kizilkaya , Samim Erdal , Sungu Nuran , Ceylan Kursat , Ustun Huseyin 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo determine the preventive effect of Ginkgo biloba extract in the formation of myringosclerosis.Study DesignProspective, randomized clinical study.Materials and MethodsPosterosuperior quadrant of tympanic membranes of twenty‐five Wistar Albino rats were bilaterally myringotomized. They were divided into three groups randomly. Groups 1 and 2 were administered 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day systemic Ginkgo biloba extract. The third group was treated with 1 mL/day saline solution. After 10 days of treatment, myringotomized membranes were examined by otomicroscopy and harvested. They were evaluated histopathologically by light microscopy and compared according to the occurrence of myringosclerotic plaques and the thickness of membranes.ResultsTympanic membranes of groups 1 and 2 nearly had no existence of myringosclerosis (72.2% in group 1 and 83.3% in group 2, P = 0.434). However, in group 3, only 14.3 percent had no myringosclerosis (P < 0.001). Thickness of membranes in group 1 was 0.13 ± 0.25, group 2 was 0.06 ± 0.02, and group 3 was 0.19 ± 0.35 mm. Group 3 had significantly thicker membranes compared with groups 1 and 2 (P < 0.001 for group 2 and P = 0.003 for group 1).ConclusionFormation of experimental myringosclerosis was reduced or inhibited and tympanic membranes were thinner after systemic Ginkgo biloba extract administration.
Endoscopic stapling of pharyngeal pouch: A 10‐year review of single versus multiple staple rows
Authors: Roth Jason A. , Sigston Elizabeth , Vallance Neil 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo compare the outcomes obtained in patients undergoing endoscopic stapling of pharyngeal pouches with single versus multiple rows of staples.Study DesignA retrospective, 10‐year review.Subjects and MethodsReview of medical records in 38 patients who underwent endoscopic pharyngeal pouch repair.ResultsPatients who underwent stapling with multiple rows had a higher postoperative leak rate than patients who were stapled with a single row (36% vs 0%, P < 0.05). Patients with multiple rows also had a more prolonged length of stay and a slower return to both clear fluids and solid diet (P < 0.05). There was no difference in recurrence rate or patient satisfaction between the two groups.ConclusionThe technique of endoscopic pharyngeal pouch stapling has the potential to achieve excellent results. The application of more than one row of staples may be necessary to divide the common wall. However, in our series this is associated with a significantly increased risk of esophageal or pouch perforation. Care should be taken during the placement of multiple rows of staples.
Application of neural stem cells in tissue‐engineered artificial nerve
Authors: Guo Bao‐Feng , Dong Ming‐Min 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo observe the curative effect of neural stem cells (NSCs), which are used in tissue‐engineered artificial nerve, on repairing rabbit 10‐mm facial nerve defects.MethodsThirty‐six Oryctolagus cuniculi were randomly divided into three groups (each group with 12 Oryctolagus cuniculi). In group A, chitosan conduit, collagen protein sponge, nerve growth factor (NGF), and NSCs were used. In group B, chitosan conduit, collagen sponge, and NGF were used. In group C, nerve autograft was performed. Electrophysiologic detection, histologic observation, and BrdU and S100 immunohistochemical examination were performed 12 weeks after operation.ResultsAll observation items in group A were better than those in group B (P < 0.01), and there were no significant differences between group A and group C (P > 0.05).ConclusionNSCs may be served as seed cells of peripheral nerve tissue engineering and be used in artificial nerve to repair facial nerve defects.
Symptom duration and CT findings in pediatric deep neck infection
Authors: Meyer Abby C. , Kimbrough Tyler G. , Finkelstein Marsha , Sidman James D. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo investigate whether children with less than 48 hours of localized symptoms of deep neck infection are less likely to have an abscess on CT scan.Study DesignCase series.Subjects and MethodsThe charts of children seen in a tertiary children's hospital for deep neck infections between 2000 and 2007 were reviewed.ResultsOf 179 children identified, 167 (93.3%) underwent a CT scan of the neck of which 102 (61.1%) were positive for abscess. There was no significant difference in the rate of abscess on CT between children with less than 48 hours of localizing symptoms and 48 or more hours of symptoms at 58.1 percent and 58.3 percent, respectively (P = 0.98). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in age, gender, C‐reactive protein levels, disease location, or length of stay between children with and without abscess on CT. White blood cell counts were significantly higher in the abscess group (P = 0.01); however, the median white blood cell count in both groups was above normal.ConclusionBecause duration of symptoms does not predict finding of abscess on CT, it is appropriate to obtain a CT scan upon presentation in all children with symptoms concerning for neck abscess.
Early tracheotomy in elderly patients results in less ventilator‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Schneider Glenn Todd , Christensen Nathan , Doerr Timothy D. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectivesTo determine if the timing of tracheotomy in elderly patients results in less ventilator associated‐pneumonia, mortality, and morbidity.Study DesignHistorical cohort study.Subjects and MethodsThis study included 158 ICU patients aged >65 who underwent tracheotomy from March 2003 to June 2007. Patient demographics, outcomes, and ventilation data were collected and analyzed.ResultsThe early tracheotomy group (continuous intubation time <7 days) included 43 patients, and 115 patients were included in the late group. There were no statistically significant differences in the demographics of the two groups. A statistically significant difference in the rate of ventilator‐associated pneumonia was noted in the early versus late tracheotomy group (−0.29% VAP, 95% CI: −0.46, −0.12). There were more intubations per patient noted in the early tracheotomy group versus the late tracheotomy group (0.70 intubations, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.99). The early tracheotomy group has a lower total ICU admission time (−9.5 days, 95% CI: −21.81, −2.25) and total hospital admission time (−10 days, 95% CI: −33.69, −2.249). There was no difference in mortality, although there was a trend of lower mortality in the early tracheotomy group (−11.3% mortality, 95% CI: −0.27, −0.05).ConclusionEarly tracheotomy in elderly patients is associated with less ventilator‐associated pneumonia, more frequent intubations, less total admission time, and a trend toward lower mortality.
The 3‐ounce (90‐cc) water swallow challenge: A screening test for children with suspected oropharyngeal dysphagia
Authors: Suiter Debra M. , Leder Steven B. , Karas David E. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectivesTo investigate the clinical utility of the 3‐ounce (90‐cc) water swallow challenge alone to determine both aspiration status and oral feeding recommendations in children.DesignCross‐sectional evaluation of a diagnostic test with a consecutive, referral‐based sample.SettingUrban, tertiary care, teaching hospital.ParticipantsFifty‐six children (age range 2–18 years; mean 13 years) referred for swallowing evaluations.Outcome MeasuresAspiration status during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) was the objective criterion standard with which results from the 3‐ounce water swallow challenge were compared.ResultsTwenty‐two (39.3%) participants passed and 34 (60.7%) failed the 3‐ounce challenge. Sensitivity for predicting aspiration status during FEES = 100.0 percent, specificity = 51.2 percent, and false‐positive rate = 48.4 percent. Sensitivity for identifying individuals who were deemed safe for oral intake based on FEES results = 100.0 percent, specificity = 44.0 percent, and false‐positive rate = 56.0 percent.ConclusionsIf the 3‐ounce water swallow challenge is passed, not only thin liquids but diet recommendations with puree and solid food consistencies can be made without the need for further instrumental dysphagia assessment.SignificanceThe 3‐ounce water swallow challenge has been shown to be a clinically useful screening test for oropharyngeal dysphagia in children.
Probiotics as adjunctive treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mukerji Shraddha S. , Pynnonen Melissa A. , Kim Hyungjin Myra , Singer Andrew , Tabor Mark , Terrell Jeffrey E. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo determine if oral probiotics as adjunctive treatment are more effective than placebo in improving quality of life in patients with chronic inflammatory rhinosinusitis.DesignProspective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.MethodsA total of 77 patients with chronic inflammatory rhinosinusitis were randomly assigned to receive oral probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011 strain (500 million active cells/tablet twice daily) (n = 39) or oral placebo treatment (n = 38) for 4 weeks.ResultsIn the probiotic group, the mean change from baseline in the SNOT‐20 scores was significant at 4 weeks (P = 0.002) but not at 8 weeks (P = 0.37). Rhinological domain improved by 9.3 percent (P = 0.004) in probiotics group but returned to baseline level at 8 weeks. No significant differences were found between the probiotic and placebo groups in mean changes from baseline to 4 weeks (P = 0.79) or from baseline to 8 weeks (P = 0.23). No changes in symptom frequency were noted, either within each group or between treatment groups at 4 and 8 weeks. There was no difference in medication use or side effects between the two study groups.ConclusionOral use of the probiotic strain L rhamnosus R0011 did not improve sinonasal quality‐of‐life scores in patients with chronic inflammatory rhinosinusitis compared with placebo.