bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alignment-Free Population Genomics: An Efficient Estimator of Sequence Diversity
Authors: Haubold Bernhard , Pfaffelhuber Peter
Published: August 2012

Comparative sequencing contributes critically to the functional annotation of genomes. One prerequisite for successful analysis of the increasingly abundant comparative sequencing data is the availability of efficient computational tools. We present here a strategy for comparing unaligned genomes based on a coalescent approach combined with advanced algorithms for indexing sequences. These algorithms are particularly efficient when analyzing large genomes, as their run time ideally grows only linearly with sequence length. Using this approach, we have derived and implemented a maximum-likelihood estimator of the average number of mismatches per site between two closely related sequences, π. By allowing for fluctuating coalescent times, we are able to improve a previously published alignment-free estimator of π. We show through simulation that our new estimator is fast and accurate even with moderate recombination (ρ ≤ π). To demonstrate its applicability to real data, we compare the unaligned genomes of Drosophila persimilis and D. pseudoobscura. In agreement with previous studies, our sliding window analysis locates the global divergence minimum between these two genomes to the pericentromeric region of chromosome 3.
Proper Cyclin B3 Dosage Is Important for Precision of Metaphase-to-Anaphase Onset Timing inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Tarailo-Graovac Maja , Chen Nansheng
Published: August 2012

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) and their compulsory cofactors, the cyclins, are the two key classes of regulatory molecules that determine the eukaryotic cell's progress through the cell cycle by substrate phosphorylation. Cdk1 forms complexes with B-type cyclins and phosphorylates a number of substrates as cells prepare to enter mitosis. CYB-3 (Cyclin B3) is a B-type cyclin that has been recently shown to be required for the timely metaphase-to-anaphase transition, presumably by alleviating a spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) block. Previously, we have shown that doubling the CYB-3 dosage suppresses sterility in the absence of the essential SAC component MDF-1/Mad1. Here we demonstrate the importance of the Mos1-mediated single-copy insertion method for understanding the effects of gene dosage by generating strains that have more (two or three) copies of the cyb-3 in wild-type and mdf-1(gk2) backgrounds to investigate dosage effect of CYB-3 on mitotic progression as well as development and fertility in the absence and the presence of the MDF-1 checkpoint component. We show that tripling the dosage of CYB-3 results in a significantly variable metaphase-to-anaphase transition, both in wild-type and mdf-1(gk2) mutant backgrounds. Although a majority of embryos initiate anaphase onset normally, a significant number of embryos initiate anaphase with a delay. We also show that tripling the dosage of CYB-3 has no effect on viability in the wild-type background; however, it does reduce the sterility caused by the absence of MDF-1. Together, these data reveal that proper dosage of CYB-3 is important for precision of timely execution of anaphase onset regardless of the presence of the MDF-1 checkpoint component.
Genetic Interactions Between ArabidopsisDET1andUVH6During Development and Abiotic Stress Response
Authors: Kim Esther , Ly Valentina , Hatherell Avril , Schroeder Dana F
Published: August 2012

Plants must adapt to a variety of abiotic inputs, including visible light, ultraviolet (UV) light, and heat. In Arabidopsis thaliana, DE-ETIOLATED 1 (DET1) plays a role in visible light signaling, UV tolerance, and development. UV-HYPERSENSITIVE 6 (UVH6) mutants are UV and heat sensitive, as well as dwarf and pale, like det1. In this study, we examine the genetic interactions between these two genes. In dark-grown seedlings, uvh6 exhibits a weak de-etiolated phenotype but does not affect the stronger de-etiolated phenotype of det1. In the light, det1 is epistatic to uvh6 with regard to chlorophyll level, but their effect on all size parameters is additive and therefore independent. With regard to UV tolerance, det1 UV resistance is epistatic to uvh6 UV sensitivity. In heat stress experiments, det1 enhances heat-induced tissue damage in the uvh6 background but suppresses heat-induced growth inhibition. Thus, det1 acts epistatically to uvh6 with respect to de-etiolation, chlorophyll level, UV tolerance, and heat-induced growth inhibition, whereas det1 and uvh6 act additively to regulate plant size and heat-induced cell death. These data provide insight into interplay between light and heat signaling.
Loss of a 20S Proteasome Activator inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeDownregulates Genes Important for Genomic Integrity, Increases DNA Damage, and Selectively Sensitizes Cells to Agents With Diverse Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Doherty Kevin M , Pride Leah D , Lukose James , Snydsman Brian E , Charles Ronald , Pramanik Ajay , Muller Eric G , Botstein David , Moore Carol Wood
Published: August 2012

Cytoprotective functions of a 20S proteasome activator were investigated. Saccharomyces cerevisiae  Blm10 and human 20S proteasome activator 200 (PA200) are homologs. Comparative genome-wide analyses of untreated diploid cells lacking Blm10 and growing at steady state at defined growth rates revealed downregulation of numerous genes required for accurate chromosome structure, assembly and repair, and upregulation of a specific subset of genes encoding protein-folding chaperones. Blm10 loss or truncation of the Ubp3/Blm3 deubiquitinating enzyme caused massive chromosomal damage and cell death in homozygous diploids after phleomycin treatments, indicating that Blm10 and Ubp3/Blm3 function to stabilize the genome and protect against cell death. Diploids lacking Blm10 also were sensitized to doxorubicin, hydroxyurea, 5-fluorouracil, rapamycin, hydrogen peroxide, methyl methanesulfonate, and calcofluor. Fluorescently tagged Blm10 localized in nuclei, with enhanced fluorescence after DNA replication. After DNA damage that caused a classic G2/M arrest, fluorescence remained diffuse, with evidence of nuclear fragmentation in some cells. Protective functions of Blm10 did not require the carboxyl-terminal region that makes close contact with 20S proteasomes, indicating that protection does not require this contact or the truncated Blm10 can interact with the proteasome apart from this region. Without its carboxyl-terminus, Blm10(−339aa) localized to nuclei in untreated, nonproliferating (G0) cells, but not during G1 S, G2, and M. The results indicate Blm10 functions in protective mechanisms that include the machinery that assures proper assembly of chromosomes. These essential guardian functions have implications for ubiquitin-independent targeting in anticancer therapy. Targeting Blm10/PA200 together with one or more of the upregulated chaperones or a conventional treatment could be efficacious.
Targeted Capture of Homoeologous Coding and Noncoding Sequence in Polyploid Cotton
Authors: Salmon Armel , Udall Joshua A , Jeddeloh Jeffrey A , Wendel Jonathan
Published: August 2012

Targeted sequence capture is a promising technology in many areas in biology. These methods enable efficient and relatively inexpensive sequencing of hundreds to thousands of genes or genomic regions from many more individuals than is practical using whole-genome sequencing approaches. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of target enrichment using sequence capture in polyploid cotton. To capture and sequence both members of each gene pair (homeologs) of wild and domesticated Gossypium hirsutum, we created custom hybridization probes to target 1000 genes (500 pairs of homeologs) using information from the cotton transcriptome. Two widely divergent samples of G. hirsutum were hybridized to four custom NimbleGen capture arrays containing probes for targeted genes. We show that the two coresident homeologs in the allopolyploid nucleus were efficiently captured with high coverage. The capture efficiency was similar between the two accessions and independent of whether the samples were multiplexed. A significant amount of flanking, nontargeted sequence (untranslated regions and introns) was also captured and sequenced along with the targeted exons. Intraindividual heterozygosity is low in both wild and cultivated Upland cotton, as expected from the high level of inbreeding in natural G. hirsutum and bottlenecks accompanying domestication. In addition, levels of heterozygosity appeared asymmetrical with respect to genome (AT or DT) in cultivated cotton. The approach used here is general, scalable, and may be adapted for many different research inquiries involving polyploid plant genomes.
Reforço à flexão de vigas em concreto armado pelo acréscimo de altura na região comprimida, utilizando-se concreto de alta resistência
Authors: Ando Eunice Sumie , Moreno Junior Armando Lopes , Oliveira Clayton Reis de
Published: August 2012

Nesse trabalho, é avaliada a técnica de reforço à flexão de vigas de concreto armado pelo acréscimo de altura no banzo comprimido. Duas vigas de concreto armado, com dimensões e armaduras, transversal e longitudinal, idênticas foram executadas. Aos vinte e oito dias de idade, uma dessas vigas foi reforçada, pelo acréscimo de uma camada de concreto de alta resistência ao banzo comprimido. Uma terceira viga foi executada com as características finais da viga reforçada anteriormente, com ambos os concretos sendo executados em uma única etapa. Ao final, o comportamento, até a ruptura, das três vigas foi analisado, comprovando-se a eficiência da técnica de reforço proposta.
Contribuição das alvenarias na interação solo-estrutura através do estudo de um caso envolvendo danos estruturais
Authors: Rosa Luciana de Moraes Pereira , Danziger Bernadete Ragoni , Carvalho Eliane Maria Lopes
Published: August 2012

O artigo apresenta a análise da interação solo-estrutura de uma construção que revelou, ao longo dos anos, comportamento inadequado de suas fundações. São resumidas análises anteriores de Rosa (2005), incluindo a interação solo-estrutura na previsão dos recalques. Essa nova análise considera, também, a influência das alvenarias na interação. Os recalques distorcionais previstos são analisados em conformidade com os danos, documentados em vários momentos da vida útil da edificação. O modelo de Kelvin foi utilizado para representar o comportamento do solo com o tempo. Verificou-se que, mesmo com as simplificações adotadas, justificadas no artigo, os resultados da análise numérica foram capazes de reproduzir a extensão dos danos, assim como sua localização espacial. Os resultados mostram a importância de uma concepção de projeto de fundações mais realista, contemplando a interação solo-estrutura.
Simulation of the mineral breakage using a fractal approach
Authors: Silva André Carlos , Bernardes Américo Tristão , Luz José Aurélio Medeiros da
Published: August 2012

Hukki's law is an empirical law, which does not take into account several events of energy loss during the mineral fragmentation processes. Since experimental results are very difficult to obtain for a large range of fragment sizes, the verification of the law is very difficult. The relation between the fracture and fragmentation processes with fractal geometry has been proposed some decades ago. Empirical laws along this context show basic features of fractal geometry, mainly self-affinity and the power law behavior. Thus, in this paper, a model to simulate the fragmentation process and to check the relationship between energy consumption and fragment sizes was developed. The model is represented on a regular lattice where links represent pathways for fracture processes. The energy of fragmentation events was modeled by a probability distribution function. In the proposed model there is no mass loss and the fracture propagation occurs as self-avoiding random walks on the regular lattice.
Patient–Clinician Information Engagement Improves Adherence to Colorectal Cancer Surveillance after Curative Treatment: Results from a Longitudinal Study
Authors: Tan Andy S.L. , Moldovan-Johnson Mihaela , Parvanta Sarah , Gray Stacy W. , Armstrong Katrina , Hornik Robert C.
Published: August 2012

Introduction.

Follow-up surveillance after curative treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is recommended to detect early cancer recurrences and improve survival outcomes. However, a substantial proportion of CRC patients do not undergo cancer surveillance. Several demographic and disease-related factors have been associated with cancer surveillance adherence. Thus far, patient-centered communication has not been studied as a determinant for undergoing cancer surveillance. The purpose of this study is to determine whether patient–clinician information engagement (PCIE) influences patients' self-reported adherence to recommended CRC surveillance procedures.

Methods.

The study was a longitudinal survey among Pennsylvanian patients diagnosed with CRC in 2005. CRC patients who were eligible for surveillance and participated in both the baseline and 1-year follow-up surveys were included in this analysis (n = 305). The main outcome measure was self-reported adherence to physical examination, carcinoembryonic antigen testing, and colonoscopy according to recommended guidelines.

Results.

Controlling for potential confounders, higher PCIE at baseline predicted a higher odds for CRC patients reporting adherence to recommended surveillance 1 year later by 2.8 times. Other significant predictors of adhering to recommended surveillance were a higher education level and having received systemic therapy.

Discussion.

In this longitudinal study among CRC patients who received curative treatment, greater patient engagement with clinicians about cancer-related information was found to improve patients' subsequent adherence to recommended surveillance. This finding provides support for encouraging greater patient–physician communication among CRC patients.
Effects of competition on phylogenetic signal and phenotypic plasticity in plant functional traits
Authors: Burns Jean H. , Strauss Sharon Y.
Published: August 2012

Recent studies of communities have examined phylogenetic signal in species' functional traits to infer drivers of community assembly. Phenotypic variation in traits, arising from “constitutive” genetically based variation and from environmental influences on gene expression, or phenotypic plasticity, could affect inferences about community assembly. We found significant trait plasticity in 12 focal species across four species–interaction treatments grown in four soil environments. Phylogenetic signal in traits was present, but was also dependent on species–interactor treatment, suggesting that phenotypic plasticity and plant neighborhood could affect the ability to detect and interpret community phylogenetic patterns of trait variation. Individuals competing with conspecifics expressed significant divergence in specific leaf area (SLA) relative to when they were grown alone. Combined with the observation that competition is stronger between close relatives than between distant relatives in some soils, these results suggest that trait plasticity may be an adaptive response to competition. To test this hypothesis, we examined total biomass in a pot, relative to the predicted biomass of two individuals grown alone, and related pot biomass to phylogenetic distance of the interactor treatment, as well as to divergence in SLA and root : shoot ratio. Within competition treatments, only plastic divergence in root : shoot ratio in one interactor treatment was correlated with increased productivity, and only in one soil type. We also tested whether, across all treatments, divergence in SLA or root : shoot ratio increased pot productivity. We found that “community” productivity was positively influenced both by phylogenetic distance to competitor, as well as by divergence in root : shoot ratio due to both plasticity and constitutive differences. Phenotypic plasticity resulting in trait divergence may increase the ability of plants to coexist and may also decrease phylogenetic signal in community assembly at small spatial scales.
Insect herbivory and propagule pressure influence Cirsium vulgare invasiveness across the landscape
Authors: Eckberg James O. , Tenhumberg Brigitte , Louda Svata M.
Published: August 2012

A current challenge in ecology is to better understand the magnitude, variation, and interaction in the factors that limit the invasiveness of exotic species. We conducted a factorial experiment involving herbivore manipulation (insecticide‐in‐water vs. water‐only control) and seven densities of introduced nonnative Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle) seed. The experiment was repeated with two seed cohorts at eight grassland sites uninvaded by C. vulgare in the central Great Plains, USA. Herbivory by native insects significantly reduced thistle seedling density, causing the largest reductions in density at the highest propagule inputs. The magnitude of this herbivore effect varied widely among sites and between cohort years. The combination of herbivory and lower propagule pressure increased the rate at which new C. vulgare populations failed to establish during the initial stages of invasion. This experiment demonstrates that the interaction between biotic resistance by native insects, propagule pressure, and spatiotemporal variation in their effects were crucial to the initial invasion by this Eurasian plant in the western tallgrass prairie.
The role of individual behavior type in mediating indirect interactions
Authors: Griffen Blaine D. , Toscano Benjamin J. , Gatto John
Published: August 2012

Trait‐mediated indirect interactions (TMII) play an important role in structuring natural communities, and numerous studies have experimentally demonstrated their presence in a variety of systems. However, these studies have largely examined the presence or absence of traits that are responsible for these interactions, without considering natural variation between individuals in the extent to which these traits are manifested. We used a well‐documented TMII to investigate the importance of individual behavior type for determining the strength of the TMII. The toadfish Opsanus tau has an indirect positive influence on bivalve survival because the mud crab Panopeus herbstii, a consumer of bivalves, reduces foraging effort in the presence of toadfish. We quantified variation in the strength of persistent individual mud crab responses to toadfish and resulting variation in the strength of TMII. We demonstrate that the strength of this TMII is strongly influenced by mud crab size and behavior type, strengthening with the intensity of response of individual mud crabs to toadfish predator cues. Further, we demonstrate that the spatial distribution within intertidal oyster reefs of crabs with different behavior types is not random; mud crabs inhabiting subtidal areas, where predator cues are more persistent, are significantly less responsive to toadfish cues than mud crabs from intertidal areas. This spatial behavioral structure should lead to spatial variation in the strength of TMII. Given the widespread importance of TMII and the broad occurrence of individual personality or behavior types across numerous taxa, these results should be generally applicable. The distribution of behavior types within a population may therefore be a useful metric for improving our ability to predict the strength of TMII.
A long‐term database on raptor migration at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, northeastern United States
Authors: Therrien J.-F , Goodrich L. J. , Barber D. R. , Bildstein K. L.
Published: August 2012

In most northern temperate regions diurnal birds of prey, or raptors, migrate seasonally between their breeding and wintering grounds. Although their populations can be logistically difficult to survey and monitor because the birds are largely secretive and wide‐ranging, most raptors are obligate or facultative soaring migrants that congregate along major thermal and orographic updraft corridors during their seasonal movements. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (41° N, 75° W), which straddles the Kittatinny Ridge, the southernmost ridge in the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Pennsylvania, witnesses large numbers of migrating raptors during autumn migration. The Sanctuary's long‐term migration‐count database is the oldest detailed archive on the timing and magnitude of migratory raptors in the world. Records comprise daily (1934–1965) or hourly (1966–present) counts of 18 North American species of raptors migrating past the Sanctuary, as well as detailed weather data recorded from the lookout during autumn migration (from 15 August to 15 December). The long‐term data set has been valuable in understanding raptor migration and population trends. Because top predators such as raptors are sensitive bio‐indicators of ecosystem changes, variations in the numbers of individual species also may reflect changes in the health of the environment. Thus, monitoring population trends of raptors can provide crucial information on environmental changes and threats facing wildlife species. Indeed, the Sanctuary's database has been key in identifying the now well‐known example of organochlorine contamination of top predators and has helped the conservation, management, and reintroduction of many species such as Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), and Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus). This database is of prime significance to conservation ecology and long‐term fluctuations in numbers of migratory birds.

The complete data sets corresponding to abstracts published in the Data Papers section of the journal are published electronically in Ecological Archives at 〈http://esapubs.org/archive〉. (The accession number for each Data Paper is given directly beneath the title.)
Comparison of Radiographic and Surface Topography Measurements in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Frerich Jason M , Hertzler Kristen , Knott Patrick , Mardjetko Steven
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

In patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), radiographic surveillance is the gold standard of assessing spinal deformity, but has negative long-term effects. The Formetric 4D surface topography system was compared to standard radiography as a safer option for evaluating patients with AIS.

Methods:

Fourteen volunteers with typical AIS patient stature had 30 repeated Formetric 4D measurements taken, and reproducibility was assessed. Sixty-four patients with AIS were then enrolled during routine clinic visits. Evaluation included standard radiographs and surface topography measurements. A comparison analysis was performed.

Results:

When assessing same-day repeated scans, a standard deviation of +/- 3.4 degrees for scoliosis curve measurements was determined, and the Reliability Coefficient (Cronbach) was very high (0.996). Cobb angles measured with the Formetric 4D differed from radiographic measurements by an average of 9.42 (lumbar) and 6.98 (thoracic) degrees, while the correlation between the two measurements was strong (95% confidence interval [CI]), 0.758 (lumbar) and 0.872 (thoracic) respectively.

Conclusions:

The Formetric 4D is comparable to radiography in terms of its test-retest reproducibility. Although this device does not predict curve magnitude exactly, the predictions correlate strongly with the Cobb angles determined from radiographs. It can be reliably used in the surveillance of patients with AIS.
Prediction of Functional Outcome at Six Months Following Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Slaven Emily J.
Published: August 2012

Background

Recovery of function such as the ability to walk without an assistive device after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is not always automatic.

Objective

This study investigated whether predetermined variables could be used to identify patients who might have functional limitations at 6 months following THA.

Design

A prospective, observational cohort design was used.

Method

Demographics and baseline measures, including age, sex, and preoperative Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) score, were collected 1 to 3 weeks prior to surgery from 40 participants who were scheduled to undergo THA. Six weeks after surgery, a second LEFS score was recorded along with each participant's body mass index and the THA procedure performed; walking speed and balance also were assessed at this time using the 10-Meter Walk Test, the Timed “Up & Go” Test, and the Functional Reach Test. At 6 months following surgery, each participant's functional outcome was determined from the final LEFS score and the need for an assistive device. Classification and regression tree (CART) analyses and logistic regression were used to establish which of the variables could predict outcome at 6 months.

Results

Body mass index, sex, and age were identified by CART analysis as predictors to classify participants who did not reach successful outcome status. Logistic regression revealed that sex (female) was the only individual variable that predicted outcome at 6 months. Walking speed was the only performance variable identified as a predictor for outcome using CART analysis.

Limitations

Only a limited number of variables were observed due to the small sample size.

Conclusion

It is possible to identify those patients who are at risk for an unsuccessful outcome through the use of variables such as body mass index, age, and sex.
Comments on “Reflections on ‘A Review of Trends in Serious Gaming’”
Authors: Young Michael F. , Slota Stephen T. , Lai Benedict
Published: August 2012

In large measure the authors agree with Tobias and Fletcher’s (2012) comments stating that clearer operational definitions of game features are needed to enable research on games and learning. The authors cannot accept that games are a subset of simulations, preferring to identify instances when games and simulations overlap and when they do not. The authors caution that research focused solely on cognitive processes risks missing fundamental environmental dynamics and their rich interactions with the intentional dynamics of situated cognition. The authors point out that their specific review of games and academic achievement is complemented by the broader survey of dependent variables reviewed by Tobias and Fletcher.
Intraventricular baclofen as an alternative to intrathecal baclofen for intractable spasticity or dystonia: outcomes and technical considerations
Authors: Turner Michael , Nguyen Ha Son , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: August 2012

Object

The aim of this study was to identify the benefits of intraventricular baclofen (IVB) therapy for the treatment of intractable spasticity or dystonia in a subset of patients who had experienced multiple revisions while receiving intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy.

Methods

The authors reviewed the charts of 22 consecutive patients with intractable spasticity or dystonia who initially underwent ITB therapy, subsequently suffered multiple revisions during ITB therapy, and ultimately received IVB therapy, all during a 12-year period from November 1998 to October 2010. The intraventricular catheters were positioned in the lateral ventricle, aided by stereonavigation.

Results

The surgical revision rate (the average number of surgical revisions per average number of follow-up years) during ITB therapy was 0.84, and was 0.50 during IVB therapy. The most frequent complication requiring surgical revision during ITB therapy was catheter occlusion, followed by pump malfunction/pump pocket issues, and infection. The most frequent complication requiring surgical revision during IVB therapy was infection, followed by catheter misplacement/migration. Four patients suffered infection that required removal of their intraventricular catheter, and currently have no baclofen system.

Conclusions

Some of these patients had a history of increasing revisions with increasing frequency during ITB therapy. Such a history puts them at risk for spinal arachnoiditis, a condition that complicates further ITB therapy. For such patients, the authors believe that IVB therapy may be a beneficial therapeutic option, given that the surgical revision rate was lower for IVB than for ITB. Intraventricular baclofen may be a cost-effective option for patients with mounting revisions during ITB therapy.
Spontaneous improvement of cervical alignment after correction of global sagittal balance following pedicle subtraction osteotomy
Authors: Smith Justin S. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Lafage Virginie , Blondel Benjamin , Schwab Frank , Hostin Richard , Hart Robert , O'Shaughnessy Brian , Bess Shay , Hu Serena S. , Deviren Vedat , Ames Christopher P. , _ _
Published: August 2012

Object

Sagittal spinopelvic malalignment is a significant cause of pain and disability in patients with adult spinal deformity. Surgical correction of spinopelvic malalignment can result in compensatory changes in spinal alignment outside of the fused spinal segments. These compensatory changes, termed reciprocal changes, have been defined for thoracic and lumbar regions but not for the cervical spine. The object of this study was to evaluate postoperative reciprocal changes within the cervical spine following lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO).

Methods

This was a multicenter retrospective radiographic analysis of patients from International Spine Study Group centers. Inclusion criteria were as follows: adults (>18 years old) with spinal deformity treated using lumbar PSO, a preoperative C7–S1 plumb line greater than 5 cm, and availability of pre- and postoperative full-length standing radiographs.

Results

Seventy-five patients (60 women, mean age 59 years) were included. The lumbar PSO significantly improved sagittal alignment, including the C7–S1 plumb line, C7–T12 inclination, and pelvic tilt (p <0.001). After lumbar PSO, reciprocal changes were seen to occur in C2–7 cervical lordosis (from 30.8° to 21.6°, p <0.001), C2–7 plumb line (from 27.0 mm to 22.9 mm), and T-1 slope (from −38.9° to −30.4°, p <0.001). Ideal correction of sagittal malalignment (postoperative sagittal vertical alignment < 50 mm) was associated with the greatest relaxation of cervical hyperlordosis (−12.4° vs −5.7°, p = 0.037). A change in cervical lordosis correlated with changes in T-1 slope (r = −0.621, p <0.001), C7–T12 inclination (r = 0.418, p <0.001), T12–S1 angle (r = −0.339, p = 0.005), and C7–S1 plumb line (r = 0.289, p = 0.018). Radiographic parameters that correlated with changes in cervical lordosis on multivariate linear regression analysis included change in T-1 slope and change in C2–7 plumb line (r2 = 0.53, p <0.001).

Conclusions

Adults with positive sagittal spinopelvic malalignment compensate with abnormally increased cervical lordosis in an effort to maintain horizontal gaze. Surgical correction of sagittal malalignment results in improvement of the abnormal cervical hyperlordosis through reciprocal changes.
Two-level thoracic pedicle subtraction osteotomy for progressive post-laminectomy kyphotic deformity following resection of an unusual thoracolumbar intradural extramedullary tumor
Authors: Kelley Brian J. , Johnson Michele H. , Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Smith Brian G. , Abbed Khalid M.
Published: August 2012

The authors report a case in which multilevel thoracic pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) was performed to correct post-laminectomy kyphotic deformity in a 9-year-old boy presenting with worsening lower-extremity neurological deficits. Five years prior to presentation, the patient underwent multilevel thoracolumbar laminectomies for resection of an atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT), a rare lesion that typically occurs intracranially and has a poor prognosis, making this particular presentation unusual and the patient's subsequent postoperative course remarkable. No fusion was undertaken at the time of resection, given the patient's age and presumptive poor prognosis. Over the next 5 years, the patient developed progressive thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity, with a Cobb angle greater than 110°, despite bracing, and bilateral lower-extremity weakness requiring ankle-foot orthotics for continued ambulation due to progressive foot drop. Worsening gait and the onset of respiratory issues prompted surgical intervention. Multilevel thoracic PSO and thoracolumbar fusion were performed, resulting in improved lower-extremity function and correction of the kyphotic deformity to approximately 65°. This report outlines an unusual AT/RT presentation and postoperative course and also discusses literature related to PSO within the context of pediatric kyphotic deformity. The authors' experience supports the use of multilevel PSO with fusion as a potential treatment option for significant pediatric thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity requiring surgical correction.
Pullout-proofing external ventricular drains
Authors: Whitney Nathaniel L. , Selden Nathan R.
Published: August 2012

Object

The authors describe a method of securing an external ventricular drain (EVD) to prevent dislodgement and discourage CSF leakage and infection.

Methods

The EVD is secured using a single permanent suture, creating a box stitch around the exit site attached to a modified roman sandal. Multiple knots are tied after each loop to avoid “telescoping,” loosening, and pullout.

Results

In 12 years of high-volume pediatric practice by one of the authors, only one drain has broken, and none have pulled out.

Conclusions

The modified roman sandal technique tightly secures EVDs against pullout. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the strength of the suture construct securing the drain is greater than that of the drain tubing itself.
Pteridophyte flora of Rampahar and Sitapahar reserve forests under Rangamati district in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Sarder Nasir , Hassan Md Abul
Published: August 2012

A taxonomic survey was conducted to study pteridophyte flora of Rampahar and Sitapahar reserve forests under Rangamati district in Bangladesh. The survey was accompanied with collection of voucher specimens of the available pteridopyte species in the area and deposition at Bangladesh National Herbarium as reference material. The study found 41 pteridophyte species belonging to 26 genera under 13 families from the area. It constitutes 21 per cent of total fern flora of the country including one threatened species viz. Tectaria chattagramica (Clarke) Ching.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v21i2.11513Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 21(2): 153-161, 2012 (July)
Mental health problems of women undergoing divorce process
Authors: Akter Maksuda , Begum Roquia
Published: August 2012

Purpose of the study was to explore the mental health problems in different functional areas of women who are undergoing divorce process. It was found that these women were suffering from various types of psychological problems. Symptoms found in different functional areas included ? physiological function impairments (e.g. weakness and tired, low appetite, sleep disturbance, headache, chest pain, brain stroke, senseless, numbness etc.), emotional function impairments (e.g. helplessness all the time, severely depressed, frustrated, anxious, upset, hopelessness, suicidal ideation, low confidence, low self?esteem, etc.), cognitive impairments (e.g. distressful thought about real life crisis ? ?I have become valueless?, ?I have no way?, ?I do not want to live anymore? etc.), behavioral impairments (e.g. unable to perform household chores, lose temper for every silly thing, misbehave with family members and relatives etc.), occupational function impairments (e.g. declined level of interest, unable to take any responsibility, dependent on others, etc.), social function impairments (e.g. avoided any social program, felt embarrassed to meet other people, isolated etc.), sexual function impairments (e.g. no interest in this area, no demand etc.). These findings suggest that women in divorce process have strong need for mental health support for rebuilding their mental health status.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v21i2.11517Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 21(2): 191-196, 2012 (July)
A Review of Seismic Isolation for Buildings: Historical Development and Research Needs
Authors: Warn Gordon P. , Ryan Keri L.
Published: August 2012

Seismic isolation is a technique that has been used around the world to protect building structures, nonstructural components and content from the damaging effects of earthquake ground shaking. This paper summarizes current practices, describes widely used seismic isolation hardware, chronicles the history and development of modern seismic isolation through shake table testing of isolated buildings, and reviews past efforts to achieve three-dimensional seismic isolation. The review of current practices and past research are synthesized with recent developments from full-scale shake table testing to highlight areas where research is needed to achieve full seismic damage protection of buildings. The emphasis of this paper is on the application of passive seismic isolation for buildings primarily as practiced in the United States, though systems used in other countries will be discussed.
Efficacy of Treatments against Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) and Effects on Forest Understory Plant Diversity
Authors: Shartell Lindsey M. , Nagel Linda M. , Storer Andrew J.
Published: August 2012

Garlic mustard, an invasive exotic biennial herb, has been identified in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but is not yet widely distributed. We tested the effectiveness and impact of management tools for garlic mustard in northern hardwood forests. Six treatment types (no treatment control, hand-pull, herbicide, hand-pull/herbicide, scorch, and hand-pull/scorch) were applied within a northern hardwood forest invaded by garlic mustard. We sampled understory vegetation within plots to compare garlic mustard abundance (distinguishing first and second year plants) and native plant diversity before and after treatment. Results immediately following treatment indicated that garlic mustard seedling abundance was significantly reduced by herbicide, hand-pull/herbicide, scorch, and hand-pull/scorch treatments, and that adult abundance was reduced by all treatments. However, sampling of treatment sites one year later showed an increase in seedling abundance in herbicide and hand-pull/herbicide plots. Adult garlic mustard abundance after one year was lower than the control with the exception of the hand-pull plots where adult abundance did not differ. After one year, understory species richness and Shannon’s Diversity were lower in the herbicide and pull/herbicide treatments. Based on these results, we conclude that single-year treatment of garlic mustard with hand-pulling, herbicide, and/or scorching is ineffective in reducing garlic mustard abundance and may inadvertently increase the success of garlic mustard, while negatively impacting native understory species.
Water and Sanitation in Schools: A Systematic Review of the Health and Educational Outcomes
Authors: Jasper Christian , Le Thanh-Tam , Bartram Jamie
Published: August 2012

A systematic review of the literature on the effects of water and sanitation in schools was performed. The goal was to characterize the impacts of water and sanitation inadequacies in the academic environment. Published peer reviewed literature was screened and articles that documented the provision of water and sanitation at schools were considered. Forty-one peer-reviewed papers met the criteria of exploring the effects of the availability of water and/or sanitation facilities in educational establishments. Chosen studies were divided into six fields based on their specific foci: water for drinking, water for handwashing, water for drinking and handwashing, water for sanitation, sanitation for menstruation and combined water and sanitation. The studies provide evidence for an increase in water intake with increased provision of water and increased access to water facilities. Articles also report an increase in absenteeism from schools in developing countries during menses due to inadequate sanitation facilities. Lastly, there is a reported decrease in diarrheal and gastrointestinal diseases with increased access to adequate sanitation facilities in schools. Ensuring ready access to safe drinking water, and hygienic toilets that offer privacy to users has great potential to beneficially impact children’s health. Additional studies that examine the relationship between sanitation provisions in schools are needed to more adequately characterize the impact of water and sanitation on educational achievements.
Effects of Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors in Combination with Taxol on Expression of Cyclin D1 and Ki-67 in a Xenograft Model of Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Li Wei , Cai Jia-Hui , Zhang Jun , Tang Yun-Xian , Wan Liang
Published: August 2012

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors in combination with taxol on the expression of cyclin D1 and Ki-67 in human ovarian SKOV-3 carcinoma cells xenograft-bearing mice. The animals were treated with 100 mg/kg celecoxib (a COX-2 selective inhibitor) alone, 3 mg/kg SC-560 (a COX-1 selective inhibitor) alone by gavage twice a day, 20 mg/kg taxol alone by intraperitoneally (i.p.) once a week, or celecoxib/taxol, SC-560/celecoxib, SC-560/taxol or SC-560/celecoxib/taxol, for three weeks. To test the mechanism of the combination treatment, the index of cell proliferation and expression of cyclin D1 in tumor tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry. The mean tumor volume in the treated groups was significantly lower than control (p < 0.05), and in the three-drug combination group, tumor volume was reduced by 58.27% (p < 0.01); downregulated cell proliferation and cyclin D1 expression were statistically significant compared with those of the control group (both p < 0.01). This study suggests that the effects of COX selective inhibitors on the growth of tumors and decreased cell proliferation in a SKOV-3 cells mouse xenograft model were similar to taxol. The three-drug combination showing a better decreasing tendency in growth-inhibitory effect during the experiment may have been caused by suppressing cyclin D1 expression.
Extraction of Betulin, Trimyristin, Eugenol and Carnosic Acid Using Water-Organic Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Lugemwa Fulgentius N.
Published: August 2012

A solvent system consisting of ethyl acetate, ethyl alcohol and water, in the volume ratio of 4.5:4.5:1, was developed and used to extract, at room temperature, betulin from white birch bark and antioxidants from spices (rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano) and white oak chips. In addition, under reflux conditions, trimyristin was extracted from nutmeg using the same solvent system, and eugenol from olives was extracted using a mixture of salt water and ethyl acetate. The protocol demonstrates the use of water in organic solvents to extract natural products from plants. Measurement of the free-radical scavenging activity using by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) indicated that the extraction of plant material using ethyl acetate, ethyl alcohol and water (4.5:4.5:1, v/v/v) was exhaustive when carried out at room temperature for 96 h.
RETRACTED: Cytoprotective Effect of Benzyl N'-(5-Chloro-indol-3-yl-methylidene)-hydrazinecarbodithioate against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats
Authors: Hashim Harita , Mughrabi Fathi F. , Ameen Mahmood , Khaledi Hamid , Ali Hapipah M.
Published: August 2012

Indolic compounds have attracted a lot of attention due to their interesting biological properties. The present study was performed to evaluate the subacute toxicity and anti-ulcer activity of BClHC against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers. Experimental animal groups were orally pre-treated with different doses of BClHC (50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) in 10% Tween 20 solution (vehicle). Blank and ulcer control groups were pre-treated with vehicle. The positive group was orally pretreated with 20 mg/kg omeprazole. After one hour, all groups received absolute ethanol (5 mL/kg) to generate gastric mucosal injury except the blank control group which was administered the vehicle solution. After an additional hour, all rats were sacrificed, and the ulcer areas of the gastric walls determined. Grossly, the ulcer control group exhibited severe mucosal injury, whereas pre-treatment with either derivative or omeprazole resulted in significant protection of gastric mucosal injury. Flattening of gastric mucosal folds was also observed in rats pretreated with BClHC. Histological studies of the gastric wall of ulcer control group revealed severe damage of gastric mucosa, along with edema and leucocytes infiltration of the submucosal layer compared to rats pre-treated with either BClHC or omeprazole where there were marked gastric protection along with reduction or absence of edema and leucocytes infiltration of the submucosal layer. Subacute toxicity study with a higher dose of derivative (5 g/kg) did not manifest any toxicological signs in rats. In conclusions, the present finding suggests that benzyl N'-(5-chloroindol-3-ylmethylidene)hydrazinecarbodithioate promotes ulcer protection as ascertained by the comparative decreases in ulcer areas, reduction of edema and leucocytes infiltration of the submucosal layer.
Application and Characterization of Gum from Bombax buonopozense Calyxes as an Excipient in Tablet Formulation
Authors: Ngwuluka Ndidi C. , Kyari Jehu , Taplong John , Uwaezuoke Onyinye J.
Published: August 2012

This study was undertaken to explore gum from Bombax buonopozense calyxes as a binding agent in formulation of immediate release dosage forms using wet granulation method. The granules were characterized to assess the flow and compression properties and when compressed, non-compendial and compendial tests were undertaken to assess the tablet properties for tablets prepared with bombax gum in comparison with those prepared with tragacanth and acacia gums. Granules prepared with bombax exhibited good flow and compressible properties with angle of repose 28.60°, Carr’s compressibility of 21.30% and Hausner’s quotient of 1.27. The tablets were hard, but did not disintegrate after one hour. Furthermore, only 52.5% of paracetamol was released after one hour. The drug release profile followed zero order kinetics. Tablets prepared with bombax gum have the potential to deliver drugs in a controlled manner over a prolonged period at a constant rate.
Binaural Sound Localizer for Azimuthal Movement Detection Based on Diffraction
Authors: Kim Keonwook , Choi Anthony
Published: August 2012

Sound localization can be realized by utilizing the physics of acoustics in various methods. This paper investigates a novel detection architecture for the azimuthal movement of sound source based on the interaural level difference (ILD) between two receivers. One of the microphones in the system is surrounded by barriers of various heights in order to cast the direction dependent diffraction of the incoming signal. The gradient analysis of the ILD between the structured and unstructured microphone demonstrates the rotation directions as clockwise, counter clockwise, and no rotation of the sound source. Acoustic experiments with different types of sound source over a wide range of target movements show that the average true positive and false positive rates are 67% and 16%, respectively. Spectral analysis demonstrates that the low frequency delivers decreased true and false positive rates and the high frequency presents increases of both rates, overall.