bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Smooth muscle cell differentiation from human bone marrow: Variations in cell type specific markers and Id gene expression in a new model of cell culture
Authors: Tréguer Karine , Naye François , Thiébaud Pierre , Fédou Sandrine , Soulet Fabienne , Thézé Nadine , Faucheux Corinne 
Published: February 2009

AbstractStromal cells follow a vascular smooth muscle differentiation pathway. However, cell culture models performed from human bone marrow do not allow the obtention of a large proportion of highly differentiated smooth muscle cells (SMC) and their differentiation pathways remain unclear. We have characterized a new model of SMC differentiation from human bone marrow stromal cells by using different factors (bFGF, EGF, insulin and BMP‐4). A relative homogeneous population of differentiated SMC was reproducibly obtained in short‐term culture with high expression of SMC markers. Id gene expression was investigated and showed that (1) Id2 mRNA expression was upregulated during SMC differentiation without change of Id1 mRNA and (2) Id1 gene expression highly increased concomitantly with a decrease of SMC markers while Id2 mRNA was slightly modulated. Our data suggested that Id genes are potentially implicated in the differentiation pathway of human SMC from bone marrow.
Surgical treatment of labyrinthine fistula in cholesteatoma surgery
Authors: Quaranta Nicola , Liuzzi Cristina , Zizzi Stefania , Dicorato Anna , Quaranta Antonio 
Published: February 2009

Objective/HypothesisEvaluate the treatment of labyrinthine fistula in a large series of middle ear cholesteatomas.Study DesignCase series in a tertiary referral center.MethodsBetween January 2001 and December 2007, 361 ears affected by mastoid and middle ear cholesteatoma were operated at our institution. The incidence of labyrinthine fistula, preoperative and postoperative hearing function, preoperative symptoms, type of surgery, and intraoperative findings were all analyzed.ResultsThe incidence of labyrinthine fistula was 12.7 percent. During surgery the matrix over the fistula was removed in all but one case. A labyrinthine fistula occurred in larger cholesteatomas as demonstrated by the higher number of cases with more than two sites involved (P < 0.001), facial nerve exposed (P < 0.001), and stapes superstructure eroded (P = 0.010). Postoperative change of bone conduction threshold and postoperative dead ears were not significantly different between fistula and nonfistula cases.ConclusionsThe preservation of the bone conduction threshold is a common finding in small fistulas and can be obtained also in “large” fistulas when appropriate surgical technique is used. In fistulas involving the promontory the matrix should be left in situ when the endosteum is involved.
Intracapsular coblation tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy for the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome
Authors: Friedman Michael , Wilson Meghan N. , Friedman Jacob , Joseph Ninos J. , Lin Hsin‐Ching , Chang Hsueh‐Wen 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo report the findings of five years' experience using standardized coblation intracapsular tonsillectomy with adenoidectomy for treatment of pediatric sleep apnea.Study DesignCase series.MethodsA five‐year retrospective analysis of coblation tonsillectomy performed by a single department for sleep apnea was completed.ResultsA total of 159 tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) cases performed with coblation technique were reviewed. The mean preoperative apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was 17.8 and mean postoperative AHI was 3.3. Polysomnogram (PSG) normalization (AHI < 1), was achieved in 54.7% patients. Normalization of PSG data was achieved in only 42.2% of overweight patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 85th percentile). Based on regression analysis, Friedman tongue position (III and IV) and elevated AHI were determined to be independent predictors of poor response to T&A.ConclusionsContrary to popular belief, a review of 159 cases demonstrates that T&A does not always result in normalization of polysomnographic data. Although complete resolution is not achieved in most cases, T&A offers significant improvements in AHI. Predictive variables such as BMI, FTP, and AHI should be taken into account when designing a treatment plan. It is important to recognize the need for close follow‐up and early detection of residual disease in the pediatric population.
Interactive Internet‐based cases for undergraduate otolaryngology education
Authors: Kandasamy Thileeban , Fung Kevin 
Published: February 2009

ObjectivesTo determine the feasibility and effectiveness of virtual‐patient computer‐assisted instruction (CAI) in pre‐clerkship undergraduate otolaryngology education.Study DesignProspective, randomized, controlled trial.Subjects and MethodsSecond‐year medical students at the University of Western Ontario, Canada, were randomized into two groups: group A was given a CAI module and group B was presented with two Internet review articles, both covered specific learning objectives for pediatric stridor. Students completed randomized pre‐ and post‐tests and a questionnaire one week later.ResultsFifty‐five students completed the study with 28 in group A and 27 in group B. Mean pretest scores were 59.1% in group A and 59.8% in group B (95% CI = −7.9% to 10.4%). Mean post‐test scores were significantly elevated in group A (84.6%, P < 0.001) and group B (74.3%, P = 0.008). Group A had a significantly higher (P = 0.02) mean post‐test score than group B (mean difference of 10.2%). Students spent significantly more time (P < 0.001) reading text articles (25.5 minutes) than completing the CAI (9.06 minutes). Forty‐one (66%) students completed the survey. Thirty‐six (88%) respondents indicated that they preferred CAI to online articles.ConclusionCAI is a feasible, effective, and efficient means of enhancing self‐directed learning as supplementation to the pre‐clerkship undergraduate otolaryngology curriculum.
Questionnaires to evaluate anxiety and depressive levels in tinnitus patients
Authors: Crocetti Andrea , Forti Stella , Ambrosetti Umberto , Bo Luca Del 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the most common instruments used to quantify tinnitus and the level of anxiety and depression experienced by patients in order to provide a guideline for otolaryngologists.Study DesignCross‐sectional survey.Subjects and MethodsA total of 108 tinnitus patients were submitted to a series of instruments, including Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), State Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y (STAI‐T), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). These instruments were chosen based on their psychometric properties, time of administration, and validity in many countries.ResultsOf the patients studied, 24 percent had severe tinnitus, 35 percent had anxiety disorders, and 13 percent had a depressive pathosis. Significant correlations between STAI‐T and THI scores (P < 0.001), and between BDI and THI scores were shown (P < 0.001). The same results were found with VAS.ConclusionIf a patient reports a THI greater than 38, the otolaryngologist should supplement diagnostic studies with a psychological consultation.
Does olfactory function improve after endoscopic sinus surgery?
Authors: Litvack Jamie R. , Mace Jess , Smith Timothy L. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo examine the impact of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) on olfactory impairment in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) over intermediate and long‐term follow‐up. We hypothesized that patients with mild olfactory dysfunction (hyposmia) would benefit from ESS, whereas patients with severe olfactory dysfunction (anosmia) would not.Study DesignProspective, multi‐institutional cohort study.Subjects and MethodsA total of 111 patients presenting for ESS for treatment of CRS were examined preoperatively, and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Demographic, comorbidity, and Smell Identification Test (SIT) data were collected at each time point. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.ResultsThe prevalence of gender‐adjusted olfactory dysfunction prior to surgery was 67.5 percent. Surprisingly, hyposmic patients did not significantly improve after surgery. In contrast, patients with anosmia significantly improved after ESS (baseline, 6‐month SIT scores: 9.7 ± 2.0, 21.3 ± 11.2; P = 0.001). Improvement was sustained at 12‐month follow‐up (21.7 ± 10.7; P = 0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that baseline olfactory category and nasal polyposis were significantly associated with improvement in postoperative olfactory function (P = 0.035, P = 0.002).ConclusionContrary to our hypotheses, patients with severe olfactory dysfunction significantly improved after ESS and sustained improvement over time, whereas patients with mild olfactory dysfunction did not.
The role of tonsillectomy in reducing recurrent pharyngitis: A systematic review
Authors: Blakley Brian W. , Magit Anthony E. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveTo determine the evidence for efficacy of tonsillectomy in reducing the incidence of recurrent pharyngitis.Data SourcesLiterature databases consisting of PUBMED, SCOPUS, CINHAL AND OVID EMBASE including all languages.Review MethodsLiterature search of database by 2 authors with structured criteria using an online database. Selected studies evaluated with meta‐analysis.ResultsIn four randomized, controlled trials tonsillectomy was favored over medical therapy in reducing pharyngitis. The difference was statistically significant in only one study. Overall meta‐analysis results were significant, indicating that tonsillectomy results in a reduction of about 43% in the incidence of pharyngitis. The number needed to treat with tonsillectomy to prevent one sore throat per month for the first year after surgery was 11 (95% CI; 7‐23).ConclusionTonsillectomy reduces the incidence of recurrent pharyngitis to a modest degree.
Effectiveness of Pillar palatal implants for snoring management
Authors: Gillespie M. Boyd , Smith Jacob E. , Clarke Joseph , Nguyen Shaun A. 
Published: February 2009

ObjectiveDetermine patient factors associated with the success and complications of using the Pillar palatal implants for snoring management.Study DesignRetrospective series of 79 consecutive adult patients receiving Pillar implants for snoring management between January 2005 and December 2007. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with initial and final bed partner satisfaction with the snoring result, and factors associated with Pillar‐related complications.ResultsA total of 64 of 79 (81%) bed partners reported snoring improvement in patients after initial Pillar implantation; however, only 31 (39%) were satisfied with the level of reduction. Following secondary procedures, the number of satisfied bed partners improved to 52 (66%). Factors associated with final bed partner satisfaction included lower initial apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) (P = 0.029), Friedman tongue position I or II (P = 0.008), and shorter follow‐up time (P = 0.001). Sixteen patients (20%) experienced procedure‐related complications. Factors associated with Pillar complications included female gender (P = 0.001) and placement under general anesthesia (P = 0.009).ConclusionsInitial AHI values and tongue position scores are important determinants of final snoring success. Pillar implants placed in women and under general anesthesia may have a higher risk of poor placement and extrusion.
Understanding the size of the energy efficiency resource: Ten policy recommendations to accelerate more productive investments
Authors: Laitner John A “Skip” 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
There is a huge potential for cost-effective investments in energy efficiency throughout all sectors of the U.S. economy: on the order of 46 billion barrels of oil equivalent between now and 2030. This is about 2.5 times bigger than what some have suggested might be available from off-shore drilling. That magnitude of further gains in energy efficiency could generate a significant downward pressure on oil prices, and increase both the resilience and robustness of the American and the international economies—if we choose to encourage those more productive investments. Policy solutions will play a pivotal role in strengthening the continued development, dissemination, and widespread adoption of energy-efficient industrial and transportation technologies and systems. With a focus on transportation systems, this article recommends 10 near-term policy actions that might be undertaken to immediately provide that signal, and more critically, to change the direction of energy usage through increased energy efficiency.
PRODUCT FRACTAL SETS DETERMINED BY STABLE PROCESSES
Authors: HOU YAN-YAN , ZHAO MIN-ZHI 
Published: February 2009

AbstractLet Xi be transient βi-stable processes on ℝdi, i=1,2. Assume further that X1 and X2 are independent. We shall find the exact Hausdorff measure function for the product sets R1(1)×R2(1), where $R_1(1)\break \times R_2(1)=\{(X_1(t_1), X_2(t_2))\mid 0\leq t_1, t_2\leq 1\}$. The result of Hu generalizes [Some fractal sets determined by stable processes, Probab. Theory Related Fields100 (1994), 205–225].
Hearing results of 1145 stapedotomies evaluated with Amsterdam hearing evaluation plots
Authors: Kisilevsky V E , Dutt S N , Bailie N A , Halik J J 
Published: February 2009

AbstractAims:To evaluate the hearing results of a large series of primary stapedotomies, according to American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery guidelines and Amsterdam hearing evaluation plots.Study design:Retrospective chart review.Methods:The charts for 1369 consecutive stapedotomy cases were reviewed; 1145 cases of primary stapedotomy were included. Raw data from the audiometric database were evaluated using Amsterdam hearing evaluation plots. The effect on outcomes of using different audiological parameters was analysed.Results:A significant improvement was demonstrated in mean post-operative air conduction and speech reception thresholds, with no change in bone conduction. Air–bone gap closure of 10 dB or more was achieved in 82 per cent of cases. A ‘dead ear’ occurred in one patient (0.1 per cent).Conclusion:This study reports the largest series of primary stapedotomies evaluated with Amsterdam hearing evaluation plots. This method enables visual identification of successful and unfavourable results, providing more accurate and detailed presentation of surgical outcomes.
Intra-operative application of optical coherence tomography with an operating microscope
Authors: Just T , Lankenau E , Hüttmann G , Pau H W 
Published: February 2009

AbstractObjective:To introduce the use of optical coherence tomography with an operating microscope for intra-operative evaluation of the human larynx.Methods:A specially equipped operating microscope with integrated spectral domain optical coherence tomography apparatus was used during microlaryngoscopy.Results:Technical improvements in optical coherence tomography equipment (e.g. pilot beam, variable focal distance, improved image quality and integration into an operating microscope) have enabled greater sensitivity and imaging speed and a non-contact approach. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography now enables a better correlation between optical coherence tomography images and histological findings. With this new technology, the precision of biopsy can be improved during microlaryngoscopy.Conclusions:Use of this new optical coherence tomography technology, integrated into an operating microscope, enables the surgeon to define the biopsy site location and resection plane precisely, while the optical zoom of the operating microscope can be used over the complete range.
Weak mixing implies weak mixing of higher orders along tempered functions
Authors: BERGELSON VITALY , HÅLAND KNUTSON INGER J. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractWe extend the weakly mixing PET (polynomial ergodic theorem) obtained in Bergelson [Weakly mixing PET.Ergod. Th. & Dynam. Sys.7(1987), 337–349] to much wider families of functions. Besides throwing new light on the question of ‘how much higher-degree mixing is hidden in weak mixing’, the obtained results also show the way to possible new extensions of the polynomial Szemerédi theorem obtained in Bergelson and Leibman [Polynomial extensions of van der Waerden’s and Szemerédi’s theorems.J. Amer. Math. Soc.9(1996), 725–753].
Trajectory tracking of mobile robots in dynamic environments—a linear algebra approach
Authors: Rosales Andrés , Scaglia Gustavo , Mut Vicente , di Sciascio Fernando 
Published: February 2009

SUMMARYA new approach for navigation of mobile robots in dynamic environments by using Linear Algebra Theory, Numerical Methods, and a modification of the Force Field Method is presented in this paper. The controller design is based on the dynamic model of a unicycle-like nonholonomic mobile robot. Previous studies very often ignore the dynamics of mobile robots and suffer from algorithmic singularities. Simulation and experimentation results confirm the feasibility and the effectiveness of the proposed controller and the advantages of the dynamic model use. By using this new strategy, the robot is able to adapt its behavior at the available knowing level and it can navigate in a safe way, minimizing the tracking error.
Dietary saturated and unsaturated fats as determinants of blood pressure and vascular function
Authors: Hall Wendy L. 
Published: February 2009

The amount and type of dietary fat have long been associated with the risk of CVD. Arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction are important risk factors in the aetiology of CHD. A range of methods exists to assess vascular function that may be used in nutritional science, including clinic and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, pulse wave analysis, pulse wave velocity, flow-mediated dilatation and venous occlusion plethysmography. The present review focuses on the quantity and type of dietary fat and effects on blood pressure, arterial compliance and endothelial function. Concerning fat quantity, the amount of dietary fat consumed habitually appears to have little influence on vascular function independent of fatty acid composition, although single high-fat meals postprandially impair endothelial function compared with low-fat meals. The mechanism is related to increased circulating lipoproteins and NEFA which may induce pro-inflammatory pathways and increase oxidative stress. Regarding the type of fat, cross-sectional data suggest that saturated fat adversely affects vascular function whereas polyunsaturated fat (mainly linoleic acid (18 : 2n-6) and n-3 PUFA) are beneficial. EPA (20 : 5n-3) and DHA (22 : 6n-3) can reduce blood pressure, improve arterial compliance in type 2 diabetics and dyslipidaemics, and augment endothelium-dependent vasodilation. The mechanisms for this vascular protection, and the nature of the separate physiological effects induced by EPA and DHA, are priorities for future research. Since good-quality observational or interventional data on dietary fatty acid composition and vascular function are scarce, no further recommendations can be suggested in addition to current guidelines at the present time.
Effects of bilingualism on verbal learning and memory in Hispanic adults
Authors: Harris Josette G. , Cullum C. Munro , Puente Antonio E. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe effect of bilingualism on qualitative aspects of verbal learning and memory was investigated. Equivalent list learning tests in English and Spanish were carefully constructed, and compared across two bilingual Hispanic groups of Mexican origin that differed in their level of English proficiency (“balanced” and “nonbalanced” bilinguals) and a group of monolingual English-speaking non-Hispanic subjects. Groups were matched for age, education, and gender composition. Nonbalanced bilinguals assessed in English utilized semantic clustering to the same extent as monolinguals, but learned fewer words overall, and demonstrated lower retention scores compared to monolinguals. Comparisons of groups assessed in their dominant languages, however, revealed no significant differences on any of the learning and memory indices examined. In addition to comparisons with standard clinical memory indices, assessment issues concerning bilingual individuals are addressed.(JINS, 1995,I, 10–16.)
Ecological implications of limb apraxia: Evidence from mealtime behavior
Authors: Foundas Anne L. , Macauley Beth L. , Raymer Anastasia M. , Maher Lynn M. , Heilman Kenneth M. , Rothi Leslie J. Gonzalez 
Published: February 2009

AbstractHumans learn skilled acts in order to effectively interact with their environment. A loss of the ability to perform skilled acts is termed apraxia. Apraxia has been thought to be of theoretical interest, but the ecological implications of apraxia are controversial and have not been fully studied. We examined ten patients with unilateral left hemisphere cerebral infarctions (eight of whom were apraxic) and compared their mealtime eating behavior to a group of neurologically normal, age-matched controls. The stroke patients were less efficient in completing the meal. They made more action errors and were less organized in the sequencing of mealtime activities. Because the patients made more errors while using tools than when performing nontool actions, their deficit could not be accounted for by an elemental motor deficit. A positive relationship was found between mealtime action errors and the severity of apraxia. These findings suggest that limb apraxia may adversely influence activities of daily living. (JINS, 1995,I, 62–66.)
The nature of learning and memory impairments in schizophrenia
Authors: Paulsen Jane S. , Heaton Robert K. , Sadek Joseph R. , Perry William , Delis Dean C. , Braff David , Kuck Julie , Zisook Sidney , Jeste Dilip V. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe California Verbal Learning Test was used to characterize the learning and memory impairment in schizophrenia (SC) and to evaluate potential clinical and demographic factors associated with this impairment. SC patients (n= 175) performed worse than normal comparison (NC) subjects (n= 229) on all learning, recall, and recognition memory measures. The most important clinical correlates of these impairments were earlier age of onset, more negative symptoms, and greater anticholinergic medication dosage. SC patients showed a prominent retrieval deficit as indicated by disproportionate improvement when tested in a recognition, rather than a free recall, format. A residual impairment seen with recognition testing suggests a mild encoding deficit as well. In contrast, the relative absence of a storage deficit is suggested by the lack of rapid forgetting. Using a discriminant function analysis that differentiates cortical dementia [i.e., Alzheimer's disease (AD)], subcortical dementia [i.e., Huntington's disease (HD)], and normals, it was found that 5070 of the SC patients were classified as having a subcortical memory profile and 35% were classified as having a normal profile, whereas only 15% were classified as having a cortical memory profile. Although these findings reflect the clinical heterogeneity often found in SC, results suggest that most SC patients demonstrate a pattern of learning and memory impairments that resembles the pattern seen in patients with primary subcortical (specifically striatal) pathology. (JINS, 1995,I, 88–99.)