Classification of glioblastoma multiforme in adults by molecular genetics.

Recent advances in cytogenetic and molecular methodologies have elucidated certain principal characteristics of oncogenesis in glioblastoma multiforme. The earliest clues implicate gene sequence alterations, such as gene amplification and numerical gain or loss of function in specific chromosomes. Genetic classification and expression patterns have thus been constructed, conferring the likelihood of two types of glioblastoma, primary (de novo) as opposed to secondary (evolving from a pre-existing low-grade glioma).

Acute monocular blindness associated with spontaneous common carotid artery dissection.

The evaluation of patients with loss of vision is common in the emergency department. Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a potentially reversible cause of acute monocular blindness. When evaluating a patient with CRAO, the potential underlying causes should be considered while simultaneously initiating treatment.

Risk factors for meningococcal disease in college students.

Context: Elevated rates of meningococcal disease were noted among 18- to 22-year-olds in the mid-1990s. However, national data on rates of meningococcal disease in US college students were not collected until 1998.

Objectives: To determine rates of meningococcal disease in US college students and to identify risk factors for meningococcal disease in this population.

Acidic fibroblast growth factor accelerates dermal wound healing.

Acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) is a potent mitogen in vitro for many cells of ectodermal and mesodermal embryonic origin including skin-derived epidermal keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells. Based on the mitogenic activity for these skin-derived cells, we tested the ability of topically applied aFGF to promote healing of full-thickness dermal wounds in healthy rodents. Low doses of aFGF can produce almost a two-fold maximum acceleration in the rate of closure of full-thickness dermal punch biopsy wounds in young healthy mice and rats.