bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intramedullary Ectopic Choroid Plexus: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Dwarakanath Srinivas , Suri Ashish , Mahapatra Ashok Kumar , Mehta Veer Singh , Sharma Meher Chand 
Published: March 2005

Abstract

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:
Intracranial cysts containing an ectopic choroid plexus or choroid plexus-like tissue have seldom been described in the literature. However, there has been no report of a spinal intramedullary cyst containing an ectopic choroid plexus. This is the first case report in the available literature of an ectopic choroid plexus tissue in the spinal cord.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
A 30-year-old man presented with complaints of progressive descending weakness of both upper limbs and increasing stiffness of the lower limbs along with numbness of all four limbs without a history of any bowel or bladder disturbances. Examination was suggestive of a C5–T2 intramedullary lesion. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a C6–T2 intramedullary cystic lesion along with a small anterosuperiorly placed lesion enhancing with contrast.

INTERVENTION:
A C6–T2 laminotomy and exploration of the intramedullary cyst and gross total microsurgical excision of the reddish vascular frond-like structure resembling the choroid plexus were performed along with a syringostomy. A laminoplasty with miniplates and screws was performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies revealed a normal choroid plexus. The patient has been followed for 1 year and has demonstrated symptomatic improvement.

CONCLUSION:
Although there have been rare case reports of drop metastasis of choroid plexus papillomas in the spine, this is the first case report in the available literature of normal but ectopic choroid plexus tissue in the spinal cord.
Treatment of Phenylketonuria-associated Tremor with Deep Brain Stimulation: Case Report
Authors: Payne Mary Say , Brown Benjamin Lyons , Rao Jayaraman , Payne Bryan Rankin 
Published: March 2005

Abstract

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE:
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism that causes severe neurological impairment, despite dietary treatment. We present a case of PKU-induced cerebellar tremor treated with deep brain stimulation. There have been no previously reported cases of a patient with a PKU tremor treated with deep brain stimulation.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
A 36-year-old male patient with PKU presented with signs of cerebellar disease including dysmetria, resting tremor, and intention tremor in the left upper extremity.

INTERVENTION:
A deep brain stimulation electrode was placed in the ventral intermediate nucleus of the right thalamus.

CONCLUSION:
Immediately after surgery, the patient had nearly complete resolution of intention tremor in the left arm. His resting tremor in the left hand was also greatly improved. The 30-month follow-up examination revealed maintenance of the immediate postoperative improvement.
Clinical Experience with the Intraparenchymal Intracranial Pressure Monitoring Codman MicroSensor System
Authors: Koskinen Lars-Owe D. , Olivecrona Magnus 
Published: March 2005

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
Our main objective was to study the reliability of the Codman MicroSensor (CMS), used for intracranial pressure (ICP) measurements, as it is used in a clinical setting. In particular, the drift from zero was studied.

METHODS:
The investigation is a prospective study of 128 patients with a need for neurointensive care who have been treated for various diseases. The patients received an intraparenchymal CMS device, and the zero drift was measured at explantation of the sensor. In another 22 patients, the ICP was recorded simultaneously from a ventriculostomy and a CMS, and the values were compared. The general data of complications and pitfalls are collected from close to 1000 CMS devices implanted.

RESULTS:
The CMS was used, on average, 7.2 ± 0.4 days per patient. The total time of ICP measurement was 20,040 hours, resulting in at least 7.2 × 107 measuring values displayed. The drift from zero was 0.9 ± 0.2 mm Hg, and no correlation with duration of use was found (P = 0.9, r = 0.002). There was a good correlation between ICP measured by CMS and by ventriculostomy (P &lt; 0.0001, r = 0.79). The average ICP measured with the ventriculostomy was 18.3 ± 0.3 mm Hg, and with the CMS, it was 19.0 ± 0.2 mm Hg. A few minor hematomas were identified, and no infections directly connected to the device were observed. Some pitfalls in handling and problems during magnetic resonance imaging investigations are discussed.

CONCLUSION:
In our hands, the CMS device is reliable and easy to use. The ICP recordings are stable over time, and there is only a minor zero drift. The device is today our standard method for ICP measurements.
Prediction of Cerebral Vasospasm in Patients Presenting with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Review
Authors: Harrod Christopher G. , Bendok Bernard R. , Batjer H Hunt 
Published: March 2005

AbstractOBJECTIVE:Cerebral vasospasm is a devastating medical complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). It is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, even after the aneurysm has been treated. A substantial amount of experimental and clinical research has been conducted in an effort to predict and prevent its occurrence. This research has contributed to significant advances in the understanding of the mechanisms leading to cerebral vasospasm. The ability to accurately and consistently predict the onset of cerebral vasospasm, however, has been challenging. This topic review describes the various methodologies and approaches that have been studied in an effort to predict the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm in patients presenting with SAH.METHODS:The English-language literature on the prediction of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal SAH was reviewed using the MEDLINE PubMed (1966–present) database.RESULTS:The risk factors, diagnostic imaging, bedside monitoring approaches, and pathological markers that have been evaluated to predict the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm after SAH are presented.CONCLUSION:To date, a large blood burden is the only consistently demonstrated risk factor for the prediction of cerebral vasospasm after SAH. Because vasospasm is such a multifactorial problem, attempts to predict its occurrence will probably require several different approaches and methodologies, as is done at present. Future improvements in the prevention of cerebral vasospasm from aneurysmal SAH will most likely require advances in our understanding of its pathophysiology and our ability to predict its onset.
Radiosurgery for Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Iwai Yoshiyasu , Yamanaka Kazuhiro , Yoshioka Katsunobu 
Published: March 2005

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
We evaluated the effectiveness of gamma knife radiosurgery in the treatment of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas.

METHODS:
Between January 1994 and December 1999, we treated 34 patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas. Thirty-one of these patients were followed for more than 30 months. Their mean age was 52.9 years. All patients underwent resection before radiosurgery. In four patients, treatment was performed with staged radiosurgery. The treatment volume was 0.7 to 36.2 cm3 (median, 2.5 cm3). The treatment dose ranged from 8 to 20 Gy (median, 14.0 Gy) to the tumor margin. In 15 patients (48.4%), the tumor either compressed or was attached to the optic apparatus. The maximum dose to the optic apparatus was from 2 to 11 Gy (median, 8 Gy).

RESULTS:
Patients were followed for 30 to 108 months (median, 59.8 mo). The tumor size decreased in 18 patients (58.1%), remained unchanged in 9 patients (29.0%), and increased in four patients (12.9%). The 5-year actual tumor growth control rate was 93%. Among patients with tumor growth, two cases were secondary to cyst formation. Two patients (6.5%) required adrenal and thyroid hormonal replacement during the follow-up period after radiosurgery because of radiation-induced endocrinopathy. None of the patients sustained new cranial nerve deficits, which included optic neuropathy.

CONCLUSION:
In this series, radiosurgery had a high tumor growth control rate during the long-term follow-up period. Furthermore, we observed a low morbidity rate, with endocrinopathies and optic neuropathies. This low rate included even patients in whom the tumor compressed or was attached to the optic apparatus. We emphasize the necessity of long-term follow-up to evaluate late complications.
Comparison of the validity and reliability of two image classification systems for the assessment of mammogram quality
Authors: Moreira Conrad , Svoboda Kate , Poulos Ann , Taylor Richard , Page Andrew , Rickard Mary 
Published: March 2005

Objective: To compare the reliability and validity of two classification systems used to evaluate the quality of mammograms: PGMI ('perfect', 'good', 'moderate' and 'inadequate') and EAR ('excellent', 'acceptable' and 'repeat'). Setting: New South Wales (Australia)population-based mammography screening programme (BreastScreen NSW). Methods: Thirty sets of mammograms were rated by 21 radiographers and an expert panel. PGMI and EAR criteria were used to assign ratings to the medio-lateral oblique (MLO) and cranio-caudal (CC) views for each setof films. Inter-observer reliability and criterion validity (compared with expert panel ratings) were assessed using mean weighted observed agreement and kappa statistics. Results: Reliability : Kappa values for both classification systems were low (0.01–0.17). PGMI producedsignificantly higher values than EAR. Agreement between raters was higher using PGMI than EAR for the MLO view (77% versus 74%, P<0.05), but was similar for the CC view. Dichotomized ratings ('acceptable' or 'needs repeating') did not improve reliability estimates. Validity : Kappavalues between raters and the reference standard were low for both classification systems (0.05–0.15). Agreement between raters and the reference standard was higher using PGMI than EAR for the MLO view (74% versus 63%), but was similar for the CC view. Dichotomized ratings of the MLOview showed slightly higher observer agreement. Conclusions: Both PGMI and EAR have poor reliability and validity in evaluating mammogram quality. EAR is not a suitable alternative to PGMI, which must be improved if it is to be useful.
Blood Pressure in Native Americans Switched from Celecoxib to Rofecoxib
Authors: Fredy Jefferson , Diggins Daniel A , Morrill Gregory B 
Published: March 2005

BACKGROUND: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs have been associated with exacerbation of hypertension. Differing effects on blood pressure (BP) have been reported in studies comparing celecoxib and rofecoxib. Concern regarding the cardiovascular safety of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor class has intensified since the removal of rofecoxib from the market. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a formulary change from celecoxib to rofecoxib on the BP of Native American patients at an Indian Health Service medical center. METHODS: Medical records of patients switched from celecoxib to rofecoxib were retrospectively reviewed. BP during the respective treatments was compared as follows: measurements recorded while taking celecoxib within 6 months before the index date and while taking rofecoxib from 1 week after the index date through 6 months of treatment were averaged. Differences in systolic and diastolic BP before and after the therapy change were evaluated using a paired Student's t-test. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients with preexisting hypertension. RESULTS: During rofecoxib therapy, the mean systolic BP was 2.9 mm Hg higher (p = 0.015) and the mean diastolic BP was 1.5 mm Hg higher (p = 0.042) than during celecoxib therapy. Among hypertensive patients, the respective mean systolic and diastolic BPs were 4.8 mm Hg (p = 0.009) and 2.0 mm Hg (p = 0.063) higher while taking rofecoxib. CONCLUSIONS: Switching patients from celecoxib to rofecoxib resulted in an increase in BP, with a larger difference observed in patients with hypertension. Future studies assessing the cardiovascular safety of currently marketed and investigational COX-2 inhibitors should evaluate the possible contribution of BP effects of these agents to overall risk.
Statistical Evaluation of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
Authors: Hlastala MP , Polissar NL , Oberman S 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) are used as qualitative indicators of impairment by alcohol in individuals suspected of DUI. Stuster and Burns authored a report on this testing and presented the SFSTs as being 91% accurate in predicting Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) as lying at or above 0.08%. Their conclusions regarding accuracy are heavily weighted by the large number of subjects with very high BAC levels. This present study re-analyzes the original data with a more complete statistical evaluation. Our evaluation indicates that the accuracy of the SFSTs depends on the BAC level and is much poorer than that indicated by Stuster and Burns. While the SFSTs may be usable for evaluating suspects for BAC, the means of evaluation must be significantly modified to represent the large degree of variability of BAC in relation to SFST test scores. The tests are likely to be mainly useful in identifying subjects with a BAC substantially greater than 0.08%. Given the moderate to high correlation of the tests with BAC, there is potential for improved application of the test after further development, including a more diverse sample of BAC levels, adjustment of the scoring system and a statistically-based method for using the SFST to predict a BAC greater than 0.08%.
A Simple Automated Instrument for DNA Extraction in Forensic Casework
Authors: Montpetit SA , Fitch IT , O'Donnell PT 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
The Qiagen BioRobot EZ1 is a small, rapid, and reliable automated DNA extraction instrument capable of extracting DNA from up to six samples in as few as 20 min using magnetic bead technology. The San Diego Police Department Crime Laboratory has validated the BioRobot EZ1 for the DNA extraction of evidence and reference samples in forensic casework. The BioRobot EZ1 was evaluated for use on a variety of different evidence sample types including blood, saliva, and semen evidence. The performance of the BioRobot EZ1 with regard to DNA recovery and potential cross-contamination was also assessed. DNA yields obtained with the BioRobot EZ1 were comparable to those from organic extraction. The BioRobot EZ1 was effective at removing PCR inhibitors, which often co-purify with DNA in organic extractions. The incorporation of the BioRobot EZ1 into forensic casework has streamlined the DNA analysis process by reducing the need for labor-intensive phenol-chloroform extractions.
Analysis of Fiber Dyes By Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) with Electrospray Ionization: Discriminating Between Dyes with Indistinguishable UV-Visible Absorption Spectra
Authors: Huang M , Russo R , Fookes BG , Sigman ME 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is shown to provide high discriminating power for the identification of textile dyes that can not be reliably distinguished on the basis of their UV/visible absorption profile. Seven pairs of commercial dyes having nearly identical UV/visible absorption profiles and absorption maxima within 5 nm, were identified successfully by LC-MS. Two pairs of cotton fibers, which were indistinguishable by microspectrophotometry, were differentiated by LC-MS. A single wavelength UV/visible detector was used to monitoring dye elution from the column. The utility of the method for comparing questioned and known fibers is discussed.
Matricide by Person with Bipolar Disorder and Dependent Overcompliant Personality
Authors: Livaditis MD , Esagian GS , Kakoulidis CP , Samakouri MA , Tzavaras NA 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
Matricide is an infrequent form of homicide. This paper is to present a case of matricide with typical characteristics of the act but interesting particularities as well. The perpetrator was a 43-year-old man, respected member of his community, with over compliant characteristics, eagerness in serving people and caring his parents, good social adaptation before and after the crime. He abandoned his family and work in order to better serve his old, disabled but over demanding mother who frequently insulted and humiliated him. Suddenly he came to a state of “mental confusion” and strangled her. After the crime, the perpetrator manifested the symptoms of a bipolar disorder and also received the diagnosis of dependant personality disorder. Years later, he presented again a crisis of escalating aggressive urge for which he was hospitalized. Many people and associations of his hometown actively demanded the minimal possible punishment for him. The case is discussed especially concerning: a) hypotheses about the aetiopathogeny of the act, b) the constant support provided to the perpetrator by his family and social environment.
The Mask Detection Technology for Occluded Face Analysis in the Surveillance System
Authors: Wen CY , Chiu SH , Tseng YR , Lu CP 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
The surveillance systems have been widely used in automatic teller machines (ATMs), banks, convenient stores, etc. For example, when a customer uses the ATM, the surveillance systems will record his/her face information. The information will help us understand and trace who withdrew money. However, when criminals use the ATM to withdraw illegal money, they usually block their faces with something (in Taiwan, criminals usually use safety helmets or masks to block their faces). That will degrade the purpose of the surveillance system. In previous work, we already proposed a technology for safety helmet detection. In this paper, we propose a mask detection technology based upon automatic face recognition methods. We use the Gabor filters to generate facial features and utilize geometric analysis algorithms for mask detection. The technology can give an early warning to save-guards when any “customer” or “intruder” blocks his/her face information with a mask. Besides, the technology can assist face detection in the automatic face recognition system. Experimental results show the performance and reliability of the proposed technology.
Inhomogeneity and Aging of Ballpoint Pen Inks Inside of Pen Cartridges
Authors: Andrasko J , Kunicki M 
Published: March 2005

Abstract
Inhomogeneity and aging of ballpoint pen inks inside of cartridges, particularly near the tip of a pen, were studied by HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography). No indication of aging in terms of changes in dye composition inside of a regularly used pen was observed. Ink entries on paper were, however, found inhomogeneous concerning concentration of phenoxyethanol, a volatile compound commonly present in ballpoint inks. Detectable and sometimes considerable aging of inks near the tip of cartridges not used for writing for many years was observed. Both evaporation of phenoxyethanol and aging of cationic dye mixture were detected at the start when writing with such pens. The consequence of this finding for ink examination, both ink comparison and ink aging, is discussed.
Gene expression for LH receptor, 17α-hydroxylase and StAR in the theca interna of preantral and early antral follicles in the bovine ovary
Authors: Braw-Tal R , Roth Z 
Published: March 2005

The onset of gene expression for three proteins that play pivotal roles in theca interna function, namely the LH receptor (LH-R), cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase (17αOH) and the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), was determined. Ovaries were obtained on day 9 of the oestrus cycle from mature synchronized dairy cows (n= 5) and gene expression in preantral and antral follicles up to 4 mm in diameter was evaluated byin situhybridization. LH-R and 17αOH mRNAs were observed first, in the theca interna of large preantral follicles (type 4), concurrent with its morphological differentiation. StAR mRNA appeared later during follicular growth, in follicles >1 mm in diameter (type 6). LH-R and 17αOH mRNAs were found exclusively in the thecal cells, whereas StAR mRNA appeared in thecal cells, granulosa cells of late atretic follicles and oocytes. In early atresia, thecal cells expressed all three mRNAs, and their expression decreased gradually as atresia progressed. Atresia in granulosa cells was characterized by massive apoptosis of periantral, but not peribasal cells, that differentiated into luteal-like cells expressing StAR.In summary, our study suggests that in spite of the presence of 17αOH, a key enzyme in steroidogenesis, the ability to produce steroids by bovine follicles smaller than 1 mm in diameter must be very limited due to the absence of StAR protein. During the early stages of atresia, thecal cells remain morphologically and functionally healthy, and continue to express all three studied mRNAs.
Asthma, Suicidal Ideation, and Suicide Attempts: Findings From the Baltimore Epidemiologic Catchment Area Follow-Up
Authors: Goodwin Renee D. , Eaton William W. 
Published: March 2005

Objectives. We examined cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between asthma, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt among adults in the community. Methods. Data were drawn from 3 waves (1981,1982,1993–1996) of the Baltimore follow-up of the Epidemiologic Catchment Area study. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations between asthma, asthma treatment, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide completion. Results. Asthma at wave 1 was associated with a significantly increased odds of suicidal ideation (odds ratio [OR] = 2.33; confidence interval [CI] = 1.03, 5.25) and suicide attempt (OR=3.54; CI=1.4, 8.99), which persisted independent of lifetime National Institute of Mental Health Diagnostic Interview Schedule/Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition major depression and treatment for asthma at wave 2. Conclusions. These findings provide preliminary evidence suggestive of an association between asthma and an increased likelihood of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt among adults in the community. Neither lifetime major depression nor treatment for asthma explained this relation. These results provide important directions for future research, and if replicated these data may have clinical and public health implications.
Becoming the Framingham Study 1947–1950
Authors: Oppenheimer Gerald M. 
Published: March 2005

In the epidemiological imagination, the Framingham Heart Study has attained iconic status, both as the prototype of the cohort study and as a result of its scientific success. When the Public Health Service launched the study in 1947, epidemiological knowledge of coronary heart disease was poor, and epidemiology primarily involved the study of infectious disease. In constructing their investigation, Framingham’s initiators had to invent new approaches to epidemiological research. These scientific goals were heavily influenced by the contending institutional and personal interests buffeting the study. The study passed through vicissitudes and stages during its earliest years as its organizers grappled to define its relationship to medicine, epidemiology, and the local community.