From the Editor's Desk

David E. Beck

This second issue of 2007 focuses on Ochsner's research activity, but also includes articles of clinical interest.

In an original article, members of our Endocrinology Department describe how basic science research and a multidisciplinary approach have enhanced the experience with aggressive glucose management in hospitalized patients. We hope that the approach and results obtained will serve as a model to manage other challenging clinical problems.

The research portion of this issue includes descriptions of two cutting-edge research projects. Dr. Re and his colleagues describe their efforts using retrovirus vectors to attack a major cancer pathway in leukemia cells. Ochsner scientist Dr. Prakash and his clinical colleagues Drs. Bardot and Cole summarize our ever-increasing understanding of how genes and genetic pathways encourage or limit cancer development and growth.

In the guest author section, Dr. Mueller of the Mayo Clinic presents an interesting description of the short life and tragic death of an Ochsner relative, Henry W. Ochsner. Henry was a resident under William Osier and died of typhoid fever contracted from a patient.

Dr. Ventura, an Ochsner cardiologist and the chairman of the Ochsner Graduate Medical Education Committee, traces the central role that research has played in this institution throughout its long history.

Finally, we have reprinted the abstracts from posters presented at the very successful Fourth Annual Research Night at Ochsner. These abstracts provide a concise description of the many research activities engaged in by our staff and trainees.

In keeping with national efforts to improve efficiency and minimize paper use in publishing, The Ochsner Journal has transitioned to an electronic submission and editorial system. Instructions on using Manuscript Central are available on our web site (www.ochsnerjournal.org). Almost all major medical journals are moving toward this type of system, and I am pleased that our editorial staff has the vision and skills to keep us current and competitive.

The Editorial Board continues to seek articles that will be of interest to our readers. Let us know which articles you find most useful, and please consider submitting reports of your academic efforts. With continued support, we hope to expand and improve upon The Ochsner Journal.