bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Leiomyoma of the pleura
Authors: Qiu Xiaoming , Zhu Daxin , Wei Sen , Chen Gang , Chen Jun , Zhou Qinghua
Published: July 2011

Primary leiomyoma of the pleura is extremely rare. A 45-year-old man presented with a complaint of right chest pain. Chest computed tomography demonstrated a solid, round pleural mass in the right anterior chest wall. The mass was completely resected, and histopathological examination revealed a localized primary pleural leiomyoma. The patient was followed and has been disease-free for over 15 months. This is the first report of primary leiomyoma of the pleura in China. A review of the literature on primary leiomyoma of the pleura is presented.
Mechanism of HCV's resistance to IFN-α in cell culture involves expression of functional IFN-α receptor 1
Authors: Datta Sibnarayan , Hazari Sidhartha , Chandra Partha K , Samara¹ Maria , Poat Bret , Gunduz Feyza , Wimley William C , Hauser Hansjorg , Koster Mario , Lamaze Christophe , Balart Luis A , Garry Robert F , Dash Srikanta
Published: July 2011

The mechanisms underlying the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) resistance to interferon alpha (IFN-α) are not fully understood. We used IFN-α resistant HCV replicon cell lines and an infectious HCV cell culture system to elucidate the mechanisms of IFN-α resistance in cell culture. The IFN-α resistance mechanism of the replicon cells were addressed by a complementation study that utilized the full-length plasmid clones of IFN-α receptor 1 (IFNAR1), IFN-α receptor 2 (IFNAR2), Jak1, Tyk2, Stat1, Stat2 and the ISRE- luciferase reporter plasmid. We demonstrated that the expression of the full-length IFNAR1 clone alone restored the defective Jak-Stat signaling as well as Stat1, Stat2 and Stat3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation and antiviral response against HCV in all IFN-α resistant cell lines (R-15, R-17 and R-24) used in this study. Moreover RT-PCR, Southern blotting and DNA sequence analysis revealed that the cells from both R-15 and R-24 series of IFN-α resistant cells have 58 amino acid deletions in the extracellular sub domain 1 (SD1) of IFNAR1. In addition, cells from the R-17 series have 50 amino acids deletion in the sub domain 4 (SD4) of IFNAR1 protein leading to impaired activation of Tyk2 kinase. Using an infectious HCV cell culture model we show here that viral replication in the infected Huh-7 cells is relatively resistant to exogenous IFN-α. HCV infection itself induces defective Jak-Stat signaling and impairs Stat1 and Stat2 phosphorylation by down regulation of the cell surface expression of IFNAR1 through the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mechanisms. The results of this study suggest that expression of cell surface IFNAR1 is critical for the response of HCV to exogenous IFN-α.
Unification of Cas protein families and a simple scenario for the origin and evolution of CRISPR-Cas systems
Authors: Makarova Kira S , Aravind L , Wolf Yuri I , Koonin Eugene V
Published: July 2011

Background

The CRISPR-Cas adaptive immunity systems that are present in most Archaea and many Bacteria function by incorporating fragments of alien genomes into specific genomic loci, transcribing the inserts and using the transcripts as guide RNAs to destroy the genome of the cognate virus or plasmid. This RNA interference-like immune response is mediated by numerous, diverse and rapidly evolving Cas (CRISPR-associated) proteins, several of which form the Cascade complex involved in the processing of CRISPR transcripts and cleavage of the target DNA. Comparative analysis of the Cas protein sequences and structures led to the classification of the CRISPR-Cas systems into three Types (I, II and III).

Results

A detailed comparison of the available sequences and structures of Cas proteins revealed several unnoticed homologous relationships. The Repeat-Associated Mysterious Proteins (RAMPs) containing a distinct form of the RNA Recognition Motif (RRM) domain, which are major components of the CRISPR-Cas systems, were classified into three large groups, Cas5, Cas6 and Cas7. Each of these groups includes many previously uncharacterized proteins now shown to adopt the RAMP structure. Evidence is presented that large subunits contained in most of the CRISPR-Cas systems could be homologous to Cas10 proteins which contain a polymerase-like Palm domain and are predicted to be enzymatically active in Type III CRISPR-Cas systems but inactivated in Type I systems. These findings, the fact that the CRISPR polymerases, RAMPs and Cas2 all contain core RRM domains, and distinct gene arrangements in the three types of CRISPR-Cas systems together provide for a simple scenario for origin and evolution of the CRISPR-Cas machinery. Under this scenario, the CRISPR-Cas system originated in thermophilic Archaea and subsequently spread horizontally among prokaryotes.

Conclusions

Because of the extreme diversity of CRISPR-Cas systems, in-depth sequence and structure comparison continue to reveal unexpected homologous relationship among Cas proteins. Unification of Cas protein families previously considered unrelated provides for improvement in the classification of CRISPR-Cas systems and a reconstruction of their evolution.

Open peer review

This article was reviewed by Malcolm White (nominated by Purficacion Lopez-Garcia), Frank Eisenhaber and Igor Zhulin. For the full reviews, see the Reviewers' Comments section.
Embryonic stem cells in scaffold-free three-dimensional cell culture: osteogenic differentiation and bone generation
Authors: Handschel Jörg , Naujoks Christian , Depprich Rita , Lammers Lydia , Kübler Norbert , Meyer Ulrich , Wiesmann Hans-Peter
Published: July 2011

Extracorporeal formation of mineralized bone-like tissue is still an unsolved challenge in tissue engineering. Embryonic stem cells may open up new therapeutic options for the future and should be an interesting model for the analysis of fetal organogenesis. Here we describe a technique for culturing embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in the absence of artificial scaffolds which generated mineralized miromasses. Embryonic stem cells were harvested and osteogenic differentiation was stimulated by the addition of dexamethasone, ascorbic acid, and ß-glycerolphosphate (DAG). After three days of cultivation microspheres were formed. These spherical three-dimensional cell units showed a peripheral zone consisting of densely packed cell layers surrounded by minerals that were embedded in the extracellular matrix. Alizarine red staining confirmed evidence of mineralization after 10 days of DAG stimulation in the stimulated but not in the control group. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated scorching crystallites and collagenous fibrils as early indication of bone formation. These extracellular structures resembled hydroxyl apatite-like crystals as demonstrated by distinct diffraction patterns using electron diffraction analysis. The micromass culture technique is an appropriate model to form three-dimensional bone-like micro-units without the need for an underlying scaffold. Further studies will have to show whether the technique is applicable also to pluripotent stem cells of different origin.
Organic parasite control for poultry and rabbits in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Lans Cheryl , Turner Nancy
Published: July 2011

Plants used for treating endo- and ectoparasites of rabbits and poultry in British Columbia included Arctium lappa (burdock), Artemisia sp. (wormwood), Chenopodium album (lambsquarters) and C. ambrosioides (epazote), Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), Juniperus spp. (juniper), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Nicotiana sp. (tobacco), Papaver somniferum (opium poppy), Rubus spp. (blackberry and raspberry relatives), Symphytum officinale (comfrey), Taraxacum officinale (common dandelion), Thuja plicata (western redcedar) and Urtica dioica (stinging nettle).
High energy tibial plateau fractures treated with hybrid external fixation
Authors: Babis George C , Evangelopoulos Dimitrios S , Kontovazenitis Panagiotis , Nikolopoulos Konstantinos , Soucacos Panagiotis N
Published: July 2011

Management of high energy intra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia, associated with marked soft-tissue trauma, can be challenging, requiring the combination of accurate reduction and minimal invasive techniques. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether minimal intervention and hybrid external fixation of such fractures using the Orthofix system provide an acceptable treatment outcome with less complications. Between 2002 and 2006, 33 patients with a median ISS of 14.3 were admitted to our hospital, a level I trauma centre, with a bicondylar tibial plateau fracture. Five of them sustained an open fracture. All patients were treated with a hybrid external fixator. In 19 of them, minimal open reduction and stabilization, by means of cannulated screws, was performed. Mean follow-up was 27 months (range 24 to 36 months). Radiographic evidence of union was observed at 3.4 months (range 3 to 7 months). Time for union was different in patients with closed and grade I open fractures compared to patients with grade II and III open fractures. One non-union (septic) was observed (3.0%), requiring revision surgery. Pin track infection was observed in 3 patients (9.1%).

Compared to previously reported series of conventional open reduction and internal fixation, hybrid external fixation with or without open reduction and minimal internal fixation with the Orthofix system, was associated with satisfactory clinical and radiographic results and limited complications.
At-Risk Phenotype of Neurofibromatose-1 Patients: A Multicentre Case-Control Study
Authors: Sbidian Emilie , Bastuji-Garin Sylvie , Valeyrie-Allanore Laurence , Ferkal Salah , Lefaucheur Jean P , Drouet Alain , Brugière Pierre , Vialette Cédric , Combemale Patrick , Barbarot Sébastien , Wolkenstein Pierre ,   NF France Network
Published: July 2011

Objectives

To assess associations between subcutaneous neurofibromas (SC-NFs) and internal neurofibromas in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) and to determine whether the association between SC-NFs and peripheral neuropathy was ascribable to internal neurofibromas.

Patients and methods

Prospective multicentre case-control study. Between 2005 and 2008, 110 NF-1 adults having two or more SC-NFs were individually matched for age, sex and hospital with 110 controls who had no SC-NF. Patients underwent standardized MRI of the spinal cord, nerve roots and sciatic nerves and an electrophysiological study. Analyses used adjusted multinomial logistic regression (ORa) to estimate the risk of the presence of internal neurofibromas or peripheral neuropathies associated with patients presented 2 to 9 SC-NFs, at least 10 SC-NFs as compared to patients without any (referential category).

Results

Cases had a mean age of 41 (± 13) years; 85 (80%) had two to nine SC-NFs and 21 (19%) at least ten SC-NFs. SC-NFs were more strongly associated with internal neurofibromas in patients with ten or more SC-NFs than in patients with fewer NF-SCs (e.g., sciatic nerve, aOR = 29.1 [8.5 to 100] vs. 4.3 [2.1 to 9.0]). The association with SC-NFs was stronger for diffuse, intradural, and > 3 cm internal neurofibromas than with other internal neurofibromas. Axonal neuropathy with slowed conduction velocities (SCV) was more strongly associated with having at least ten SC-NFs (aOR = 29.9, 5.5 to 162.3) than with having fewer SC-NFs (aOR = 4.4, 0.9 to 22.0). Bivariate analyses showed that the association between axonal neuropathy with SCV and sciatic neurofibromas was mediated by the association between SC-NFs and sciatic neurofibromas.

Conclusion

The at-risk phenotype of NF-1 patients (i.e. NF-1 patients with SC-NFs) is ascribable to associations linking SC-NFs to internal neurofibromas at risk for malignant transformation and to axonal neuropathies with slowed conduction velocities. Axonal neuropathies with SCV are particularly common in patients with at least ten SC-NFs.

Registration details

ORPHA86301
Upper cervical intramedullary spinal metastasis of ovarian carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Miranpuri Amrendra S , Rajpal Sharad , Salamat M Shahriar , Kuo John S
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Currently there is no generalized approach to treating patients with intra-medullary spinal metastasis. High cervical spinal cord lesions can be particularly challenging cases, and may even be considered inoperable by some.

Case report

We present what is, to the best of our knowledge, the first reported case of ovarian carcinoma (managed primarily with surgery) in a 65-year-old Caucasian woman metastasizing to the upper cervical spinal cord; we also review the relevant literature and discuss management strategies.

Conclusions

Due to improving systemic cancer therapies, patients with cancer now often survive longer and are more likely to develop central nervous system metastases. Therefore, neurosurgical oncologists are often challenged with difficult decisions about how to surgically manage these patients. We recommend individualized multidisciplinary management based on patient functional status, the need for definitive diagnosis for possible additional adjuvant therapies, and consideration of extent of systemic disease impacting on desirable quality and length of survival.
FOXO3 Is Inhibited by Oncogenic PI3K/Akt Signaling but Can Be Reactivated by the NSAID Sulindac Sulfide
Authors: Weidinger Carl , Krause Kerstin , Mueller Kathrin , Klagge Antje , Fuhrer Dagmar , Führer-Sakel Dagmar
Published: July 2011

Background:

Overactivation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway has emerged as a pivotal trigger of thyroid carcinogenesis. Recent findings from other tumor entities revealed that PI3K/Akt-driven carcinogenesis critically involves the inactivation of the tumor-suppressive transcription factor Forkhead box O (FOXO)-3. However, little is known about FOXO3 in the thyroid context.

Aims:

We sought to investigate the influence of the thyroid oncogenes BRAFV600E, H-RASV12, and p110α (H1074R) on the regulation of the PI3K downstream target FOXO3 in vitro. Furthermore, the impact of the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) on the transcriptional activity of FOXO3 was assessed in a panel of 44 human thyroid tumors. Finally, we tried to modulate FOXO3 activity pharmacologically with help of the nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug sulindac sulfide (SS).

Results:

We found that the overexpression of p110α H1074R results in the inactivation of FOXO3 via its nuclear exclusion. In vivo, we observed a direct correlation between PTEN expression and the transcriptional activation of FOXO3. In vitro, we found that stimulation with SS reversed PI3K/Akt-driven inactivation of FOXO3, resulting in its nuclear relocation and a combined induction of the antiproliferative FOXO target genes Gadd45α and p27kip1 and the proapoptotic FOXO target gene Bim in benign (FRTL-5) and malignant human thyrocytes (FTC-133). In agreement with this, SS promoted the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in thyroid cells, which could be amplified by the transfection of exogenous FOXO3.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that deregulation of proapoptotic FOXO3 represents a central step in PI3K/Akt-mediated thyroid carcinogenesis. Thus, SS might represent an attractive pharmacological tool for targeting thyroid neoplasia with aberrant PI3K/Akt/FOXO3 signaling.
Standardized Multidisciplinary Evaluation Yields Significant Previously Undiagnosed Morbidity in Adult Women with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Freriks Kim , Timmermans Janneke , Beerendonk Catharina C. M. , Verhaak Chris M. , Netea-Maier Romana T. , Otten Barto J. , Braat Didi D. M. , Smeets Dominique F. C. M. , Kunst Dirk H. P. M. , Hermus Ad R. M. M. , Timmers Henri J. L. M.
Published: July 2011

Context:

Besides short stature and gonadal dysgenesis, Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with various abnormalities. Adults with TS have a reduced life expectancy, mainly related to structural abnormalities of the heart and aorta, and an increased risk of atherosclerosis.

Objective:

Our objective was to investigate the yield of an initial standardized multidisciplinary screening in adult TS patients.

Design and Setting:

This was an observational study at a multidisciplinary care unit for adult women with TS.

Participants:

Participants were adult women with TS (n = 150). Mean age was 31.0 ± 10.4 yr, with 47% karyotype 45,X.

Interventions:

All women were consulted by an endocrinologist, a gynecologist, a cardiologist, an otorhinolaryngologist, and when indicated, a psychologist. The screening included magnetic resonance imaging of the heart and aorta, echocardiography, electrocardiogram, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, renal ultrasound, audiogram, and laboratory investigations according to international expert recommendations.

Main outcome measures:

New diagnoses and prevalence of TS-associated morbidity were evaluated.

Results:

Thirty percent of patients currently lacked medical follow-up, and 15% lacked estrogen replacement therapy in the recent last years. The following disorders were newly diagnosed: bicuspid aortic valve (n = 13), coarctation of the aorta (n = 9), elongation of the transverse aortic arch (n = 27), dilation of the aorta (n = 34), osteoporosis (n = 8), osteopenia (n = 56), renal abnormalities (n = 7), subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 33), celiac disease (n = 3), glucose intolerance (n = 12), dyslipidemia (n = 52), hypertension (n = 39), and hearing loss warranting a hearing aid (n = 8). Psychological consultation was needed in 23 cases.

Conclusions:

Standardized multidisciplinary evaluation of adult women with TS as advocated by expert opinion is effective and identifies significant morbidity. Girls with TS benefit from a careful transition to ongoing adult medical care.
Kif3a regulates planar polarization of auditory hair cells through both ciliary and non-ciliary mechanisms
Authors: Sipe Conor W. , Lu Xiaowei
Published: July 2011

Auditory hair cells represent one of the most prominent examples of epithelial planar polarity. In the auditory sensory epithelium, planar polarity of individual hair cells is defined by their V-shaped hair bundle, the mechanotransduction organelle located on the apical surface. At the tissue level, all hair cells display uniform planar polarity across the epithelium. Although it is known that tissue planar polarity is controlled by non-canonical Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling, the hair cell-intrinsic polarity machinery that establishes the V-shape of the hair bundle is poorly understood. Here, we show that the microtubule motor subunit Kif3a regulates hair cell polarization through both ciliary and non-ciliary mechanisms. Disruption of Kif3a in the inner ear led to absence of the kinocilium, a shortened cochlear duct and flattened hair bundle morphology. Moreover, basal bodies are mispositioned along both the apicobasal and planar polarity axes of mutant hair cells, and hair bundle orientation was uncoupled from the basal body position. We show that a non-ciliary function of Kif3a regulates localized cortical activity of p21-activated kinases (PAK), which in turn controls basal body positioning in hair cells. Our results demonstrate that Kif3a-PAK signaling coordinates planar polarization of the hair bundle and the basal body in hair cells, and establish Kif3a as a key component of the hair cell-intrinsic polarity machinery, which acts in concert with the tissue polarity pathway.
CaMK-II is a PKD2 target that promotes pronephric kidney development and stabilizes cilia
Authors: Rothschild Sarah C. , Francescatto Ludmila , Drummond Iain A. , Tombes Robert M.
Published: July 2011

Intracellular Ca2+ signals influence gastrulation, neurogenesis and organogenesis through pathways that are still being defined. One potential Ca2+ mediator of many of these morphogenic processes is CaMK-II, a conserved calmodulin-dependent protein kinase. Prolonged Ca2+ stimulation converts CaMK-II into an activated state that, in the zebrafish, is detected in the forebrain, ear and kidney. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease has been linked to mutations in the Ca2+-conducting TRP family member PKD2, the suppression of which in vertebrate model organisms results in kidney cysts. Both PKD2-deficient and CaMK-II-deficient zebrafish embryos fail to form pronephric ducts properly, and exhibit anterior cysts and destabilized cloacal cilia. PKD2 suppression inactivates CaMK-II in pronephric cells and cilia, whereas constitutively active CaMK-II restores pronephric duct formation in pkd2 morphants. PKD2 and CaMK-II deficiencies are synergistic, supporting their existence in the same genetic pathway. We conclude that CaMK-II is a crucial effector of PKD2 Ca2+ that both promotes morphogenesis of the pronephric kidney and stabilizes primary cloacal cilia.
no child left behind encodes a novel chromatin factor required for germline stem cell maintenance in males but not females
Authors: Casper Abbie L. , Baxter Kelly , Van Doren Mark
Published: July 2011

Male and female germ cells follow distinct developmental paths with respect to germline stem cell (GSC) production and the types of differentiated progeny they produce (sperm versus egg). An essential aspect of germline development is how sexual identity is used to differentially regulate the male and female germ cell genomes to allow for these distinct outcomes. Here, we identify a gene, no child left behind (nclb), that plays very different roles in the male versus female germline in Drosophila. In particular, nclb is required for GSC maintenance in males, but not in females. Male GSCs mutant for nclb are rapidly lost from the niche, and begin to differentiate but cannot complete spermatogenesis. We further find that nclb encodes a member of a new family of conserved chromatin-associated proteins. NCLB interacts with chromatin in a specific manner and is associated with sites of active transcription. Thus, NCLB appears to be a novel chromatin regulator that exhibits very different effects on the male and female germ cell genomes.
The regenerative capacity of zebrafish reverses cardiac failure caused by genetic cardiomyocyte depletion
Authors: Wang Jinhu , Panáková Daniela , Kikuchi Kazu , Holdway Jennifer E. , Gemberling Matthew , Burris James S. , Singh Sumeet Pal , Dickson Amy L. , Lin Yi-Fan , Sabeh M. Khaled , Werdich Andreas A. , Yelon Deborah , MacRae Calum A. , Poss Kenneth D.
Published: July 2011

Natural models of heart regeneration in lower vertebrates such as zebrafish are based on invasive surgeries causing mechanical injuries that are limited in size. Here, we created a genetic cell ablation model in zebrafish that facilitates inducible destruction of a high percentage of cardiomyocytes. Cell-specific depletion of over 60% of the ventricular myocardium triggered signs of cardiac failure that were not observed after partial ventricular resection, including reduced animal exercise tolerance and sudden death in the setting of stressors. Massive myocardial loss activated robust cellular and molecular responses by endocardial, immune, epicardial and vascular cells. Destroyed cardiomyocytes fully regenerated within several days, restoring cardiac anatomy, physiology and performance. Regenerated muscle originated from spared cardiomyocytes that acquired ultrastructural and electrophysiological characteristics of de-differentiation and underwent vigorous proliferation. Our study indicates that genetic depletion of cardiomyocytes, even at levels so extreme as to elicit signs of cardiac failure, can be reversed by natural regenerative capacity in lower vertebrates such as zebrafish.
Is There a Role for Fatty Acid Synthase in the Diagnosis of Prostatic Adenocarcinoma?
Authors: Wu Xiaojun , Zayzafoon Majd , Zhang Xinzhi , Hameed Omar
Published: July 2011

Our aim was to compare the usefulness of fatty acid synthase (FASn) with that of α-methylacyl coenzyme-A racemase (AMACR) in the diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma. The expression of these 2 markers was compared in a tissue microarray containing 62 foci of benign glands and 36 foci of prostatic adenocarcinoma. Similar to AMACR, there was significantly higher FASn expression in adenocarcinoma compared with that in benign glands. The optimal accuracy rate and area under curve (AUC) by receiver operating characteristic analysis for FASn were not significantly different from those for AMACR (accuracy, 80% vs 87%; AUC, 0.942 vs 0.956; P for both, > .05). Moreover, in cases with coexistent malignant and benign glands on the same core, FASn could selectively distinguish a proportion of cases (17/21 [81%]) similar to using AMACR. We conclude that FASn may aid in the diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma, at least to supplement AMACR as another positive marker of carcinoma and potentially increase diagnostic accuracy.
Marginal Zone Lymphomas With Plasmacytic Differentiation and Related Disorders
Authors: Molina Thierry J. , Lin Pei , Swerdlow Steven H. , Cook James R.
Published: July 2011

Marginal zone lymphomas of all types (nodal, splenic, and extranodal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue [MALT]) may show plasmacytic differentiation. Distinguishing marginal zone lymphomas from other small B-cell lymphomas with plasmacytic differentiation, especially lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, or from plasma cell neoplasms may be challenging. Marginal zone lymphomas with plasmacytic differentiation were discussed in 2 sessions of the 2009 Society for Hematopathology/European Association for Haematopathology Workshop. Session 4 focused on nodal marginal zone lymphomas, including cases exhibiting classic features and cases displaying atypical phenotypes. The difficulties of classification of cases with increased numbers of large cells were also discussed. Session 5 examined nonnodal marginal zone lymphomas and related entities, including splenic marginal zone lymphoma, MALT lymphoma, γ heavy chain disease, and cryoglobulin-associated lymphoproliferative disorders. These cases illustrate the importance of clinical data and, in some cases, phenotypic and cytogenetic findings in appropriately applying the 2008 World Health Organization criteria.
Importance of Papanicolaou Staining for Sperm Morphologic Analysis
Authors: Singh Smita , Sharma Sunita , Jain Manjula , Chauhan Richa
Published: July 2011

Without experience or proper training, the evaluation of the morphologic features of sperm can become the most confusing and time-consuming area of semen analysis. This study defined the role of Papanicolaou staining compared with an automated sperm analyzer in the management of infertility. We compared the morphologic features of sperm using Papanicolaou staining and an automated Sperm Quality Analyzer IIC-P (SQA-IIC-P; Medical Electronic Systems, Caesarea, Israel) and evaluated the role of factors affecting these features in semen samples from 201 infertile men. The sensitivity of the SQA-IIC-P was 85.5%, and the specificity was 87.3% compared with Papanicolaou staining. Although the positive predictive value of this instrument was 93.7%, the negative predictive value was only 73.3%. Moreover, sperm indices that are important for in vitro fertilization could be derived only by using the manual method. A strong correlation was seen with smoking and leukocytospermia (P < .001).

The SQA-IIC-P can be used as a screening tool to evaluate the morphologic features of sperm. However, Papanicolaou staining to study the cytomorphologic features of sperm and the calculation of sperm indices should be done for quantification of defects.
Improved Flagging Rates on the Sysmex XE-5000 Compared With the XE-2100 Reduce the Number of Manual Film Reviews and Increase Laboratory Productivity
Authors: Briggs Carol J. , Linssen Joachim , Longair Ian , Machin Samuel J.
Published: July 2011

Hematology analyzers generate suspect flags in the presence of abnormal cells. False-positive rates for flags are high on all analyzers. Sysmex, Kobe, Japan, has developed new software for its XE-5000 with improved algorithms for flagging blast cells, abnormal lymphocytes or lymphoblasts, and atypical lymphocytes.

This study evaluated the efficiency of these flags in 1,002 samples. The XE-5000 was compared with the XE-2100 (Sysmex) and microscopic examination of cell morphologic features.

On the XE-2100, the blast flag demonstrated 90 false-positives, 13 true-positives, and 3 false-negatives. The values on the XE-5000 were 27 false-positives, 14 true-positives, and 2 false-negatives. The abnormal lymphocyte/lymphoblast flag was assessed with the atypical lymphocyte flag. The XE-2100 showed 114 false-positives, 23 true-positives, and 20 false-negatives, and on the XE-5000, there were 45 false-positives, 22 true-positives, and 21 false-negatives.

This more specific flagging reduces the number of films that require manual review.
Use of the BD Vacutainer Rapid Serum Tube Reduces False-Positive Results for Selected Beckman Coulter Unicel DxI Immunoassays
Authors: Strathmann Frederick G. , Ka Michael M. , Rainey Petrie M. , Baird Geoffrey S.
Published: July 2011

We investigated the use of serum samples from BD Vacutainer rapid serum tubes (RSTs; BD, Franklin Lakes, NJ) to reduce undetermined interferences contributing to false-positive immunoassay results in heparin plasma samples. Patients being evaluated for suspected myocardial infarction had specimens drawn into an RST in addition to the standard lithium-heparin plasma separator tube (PST). We measured 28 separate analytes in both specimens using immunoassay, electrochemical, and spectrophotometric methods. Higher results were observed in some PST specimens tested for troponin I, creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme, human chorionic gonadotropin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone. These discrepancies were investigated by repeating analyses after recentrifugation of both specimens. Reanalysis gave results for the PST specimens that were lower and agreed well with initial results from RSTs, suggesting false-positive rates of 10.8% for troponin I and about 2% for each of the other 3 analytes. Overall, specimens collected in RSTs had fewer false-positive immunoassay results than specimens collected in plasma separator tubes.
Measurement of Stress Changes Using a Compact Conical-ended Borehole Monitoring
Authors: Stas L. , Knejzlik J. , Palla L. , Soucek K. , Waclawik P.
Published: July 2011

This paper describes the first experience in in situ determination of stress tensor changes during a longwall extraction. A device designed to measure deformations at the bottom of conical ended boreholes was used for the long term observation of stress changes induced by underground mining activity.
Development and Evaluation of Relative Compaction Specifications Using Roller-Based Measurements
Authors: Facas Norman W. , Rinehart Robert V. , Mooney Mike A.
Published: July 2011

Earthwork quality control/quality assurance specifications are currently being developed and implemented with continuous compaction control (CCC) and intelligent compaction (IC) rollers. This paper presents and explores two methods of using CCC/IC data based on a relative compaction approach. The first method examines the relative change in roller-measured mean compaction level between passes while the second method examines relative changes spatially. The relative compaction methods were implemented on a test site. The relative compaction methods were found to provide improvement over current methods due to their ability to quantitatively assess 100% of the compacted area while decreasing time and cost during the construction process.
Shear Viscosity of Clays in the Fall Cone Test
Authors: Cevikbilen Gokhan , Budhu Muniram
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of a fall cone test to determine the viscosity of clay soils with a liquidity index of less than one. The conventional tool to determine the viscosity of clay soils is a viscometer. But, viscometers are suitable only for determining the viscosity of soils for water contents greater than the liquid limit. Because soil flow can take place within the plastic range, the viscosity has to be determined by means other than viscometers. In this study, eight soils were thoroughly investigated using the fall cone test. The results of the study show that the fall cone test is suitable to determine the shear viscosity of clay soils. Excellent correlations (regression coefficients > 0.95) were found between the final penetration depth and the dynamic equilibrium depth, and between the liquidity index and the viscosity.
Experimental Investigation of the Combined Load Response of Model Piles Driven in Sand
Authors: Lee Jintae , Prezzi Monica , Salgado Rodrigo
Published: July 2011

Although the load applied on a pile is usually a combination of a vertical and a lateral load, there have been few studies done on the response of piles subjected to combined loading; these studies; in addition, produce results that are inconsistent with respect to the effects of axial loads on the lateral load response of piles. In this paper, we present the results of model pile load tests performed to assess the influence of axial loads on the lateral response of piles driven in sand. Using a drop hammer, an instrumented circular model pile was driven into large-scale sand samples prepared in a cylindrical steel tank with various densities using a pluviation method. Lateral load tests were performed on the model pile subjected to different axial loads. The combined load test results showed that the presence of an axial load on a driven pile is detrimental to its lateral capacity, for the lateral deflection of the model pile head increased with increasing axial load. The bending moments at the pile head increased substantially (by 10 %, 36 % and 39 % for loose, medium dense and dense sand, respectively) in the presence of axial loads.
Simple Techniques for the Estimation of Suction in Compacted Soils in the Range of 0 to 60,000 kPa
Authors: Vanapalli Sai K. , Oh Won Taek
Published: July 2011

Two simple techniques are proposed in this Technical Note to estimate suction values over a range of 0 to 60,000 kPa on compacted glacial till specimens. The first technique uses a conventional pocket penetrometer in the estimation of matric suction values lower than 300 kPa. This technique is developed based on the assumption that there is a strong relationship between matric suction and the compressive strength measured using a pocket penetrometer. The second technique uses conventional tensiometer to estimate relatively high suction values in the range of 1200 to 60,000 kPa. In this technique, the tensiometer response versus time (TRT) behavior for a suction range of 0 to 50 kPa is used in a hyperbolic model to estimate the high suction value. This technique is proposed based on the assumption that each suction value has a unique initial tangent of TRT behavior. The equilibrium suction values of the compacted glacial till specimens are respectively measured using axis-translation technique and a psychrometer for low and high suction values and compared with those estimated using the techniques proposed in this study. There is a reasonably good comparison between the measured and estimated suction values both in the low and high suction range.
A Novel Image-Capturing Technique for the Experimental Study of Soil Deformations During Compaction
Authors: Beckett C. T. S. , Augarde C. E.
Published: July 2011

A method is described here for the monitoring of two layers of moist sandy-loam soil under compaction, where a flatbed scanner is used to capture large images of the deforming material. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is used to track the movements of groups of particles within the soil. Due to their insufficient surface texture, PIV cannot be used on clayey soils. Therefore, to allow the analysis to take place, a novel use of a transparent clay is made whereby an artificial soil comprising transparent clay, sand and gravel is created to approximate the moist sandy loam soil. The design of a suitable compaction chamber and tests to determine optimal PIV parameters are discussed. The suitability and applicability of the use of a flatbed scanner are discussed and results are shown to confirm the success of the scanning method.
A Servo/Suction-Controlled Ring Shear Apparatus for Unsaturated Soils: Development, Performance, and Preliminary Results
Authors: Hoyos Laureano R. , Velosa Claudia L. , Puppala Anand J.
Published: July 2011

In recent years, the key hypotheses of most constitutive frameworks postulated for unsaturated soils have been validated via suction-controlled oedometer, triaxial, and direct shear testing. These techniques only allow for the application of loads along limited modes and levels of soil deformation. It is well known today that a vast majority of geotechnical infrastructure made of compacted soil, or resting on unsaturated ground, involves a wide range of deformations. Calculation of foundation settlement, for instance, requires a good estimation of soil stiffness at relatively small strains. Analysis of slopes, embankments, and soil bearing capacity, on the other hand, requires good estimations of shear strength, from peak to residual. To date, however, there is limited experimental evidence of unsaturated soil behavior under large deformations while being subjected to controlled-suction states. This paper introduces a fully servo/suction-controlled ring shear apparatus that has been made suitable for testing unsaturated soils at large deformations via axis-translation technique. The paper outlines the full development of the apparatus, including details of its main components, assembling, and performance verification against the original Bromhead device. A preliminary series of suction-controlled ring shear tests was accomplished on several statically compacted samples of silty sand. Residual friction angle with respect to matric suction, i.e., residual beta angle, was found to remain virtually constant, regardless of the applied level of net normal stress. The results suggest that a conceptual residual shear strength framework for unsaturated soils, similar to that postulated for peak shear strength, could eventually be devised as more experimental evidence of this kind is made available.
Reliability Analysis of CPT Measurements for Calculating Undrained Shear Strength
Authors: Alshibli Khalid A. , Okeil Ayman M. , Alramahi Bashar , Zhang Zhongjie
Published: July 2011

The cone penetration test (CPT) has been widely used in Louisiana to classify soils, measure undrained shear strength (Su), and identify bearing stratum for driven piles. This paper compares the values of Su based on CPT measurement with Su of the unconfined compression test. A total of 752 CPT soundings were collected and archived using ArcGIS software in which 503 were matched with adjacent boreholes and 249 did not have adjacent borehole data available. The dataset was analyzed for general as well as specific trends in order to identify appropriate parameters to be included in the investigation. The calibration of the CPT expression for Su was conducted using the first order reliability method (FORM) and accounting for all sources of uncertainty. Optimum CPT coefficient (Nkt) values to calculate Su were computed for various target reliability values. It was determined that the soil classification is the only parameter showing clear trends that affect CPT estimates of the undrained shear strength. Values of Nkt for each soil type based on the Robertson (1990) classification and the Zhang and Tumay (1999) classification were determined for three target reliability levels. It is obvious that the Nkt coefficient for soils with higher clay content is lower than those with less clay content. A single Nkt value that is valid for all soil types is unwarranted as will lead to acceptable results for some soil conditions and unacceptable results for others, which can be unconservative.
A Service Life Assessment of Corrugated HDPE Drainage Pipe
Authors: Pluimer Michael
Published: July 2011

ABSTRACT: The service life of our nation’s infrastructure has become a topic of increasing focus in recent years. While above-ground infrastructure deterioration is readily apparent, the infrastructure beneath the surface can be much worse and yet is often largely ignored until it is too late. Since culverts and other buried structures typically are not inspected as frequently as above-ground structures such as bridges, the proper assessment and determination of their service life becomes very important. The design service life of corrugated high density polyethylene (HDPE) drainage pipe has been a subject of considerable research over the past several years. This paper presents a method for determination of long-term service life of corrugated HDPE pipe by utilizing some of the current widely accepted methods employed by the smooth-walled plastic pipe industry while modifying them somewhat to take into account the unique geometry and installation conditions of buried corrugated pipe. The resulting data when tested in accordance to this protocol indicate a service life in excess of 100 years.
Microbial Corrosion in Aviation Turbine Fuel (Jet A 1) Transporting Pipeline
Authors: Maruthamuthu S. , Ramachandran S. , Kumar B. Dinesh , Shatish V. , Palanichamy S. , kumar B. Anand , Subramanian P. , Sah S. P. , Anbezhil A. , Palaniswamy N.
Published: July 2011

Aviation turbine fuel is a mixture of various hydrocarbons and additives. Some fuel-soluble chemicals are added in small amounts to enhance or to maintain the properties related to fuel performance. In the present study, the influence of microbes on corrosion in aviation turbine fuel transporting pipeline is reported. Chemical and biological analyses of the corrosion product collected from aviation turbine fuel pipeline were carried out. While examining the topography of the pipeline, the possibilities of some water stagnant points were noticed. The reason for the corrosion in the aviation turbine fuel transporting pipeline is investigated and discussed.
Indoor Allergen Surface Sampling Methods and Standards: A Review of the Theory and the Practice
Authors: Lewis Roger D. , Chen Daren
Published: July 2011

Understanding the relationship among allergies, asthma, and indoor air allergen triggers increasingly require use of standardized and evidence based exposure assessment methods. Exposure assessment for common indoor allergens, however, is often limited by use of surface in place of air sampling for a variety of reasons. Chief among them is that many indoor allergens settle to the ground quickly after being released. Another reason for the wide-spread use of surface over air sampling for indoor air allergens is that air sampling is typically performed over a limited time frame and plausibly cannot capture a composite of exposure that a surface sample can. Protocols have been developed to collect surface borne allergen in several US wide-national studies, and while these samplers may provide an adequate means to correlate composite dust mass or allergens to some specific health outcomes, there is still a lack of evidence to support their adoption on the basis of several criteria which stem from theoretical and evidence based considerations. To become more valuable tools to risk assessment, epidemiological studies, and environmental intervention, surface sampling methods should be constructed using basic principles of particle behavior on surfaces as well as in the air. Criteria need to be developed from these principles and studies that address these criteria should be used or developed to enable the creation of performance-based standards. This paper is a review of the literature, which highlights surface sampling methods that have taken this theory- or evidence-based approach. After the review, a discussion is then developed on the current state-of-the-art surface sampling for indoor allergens. Recommendations are suggested for both future theoretical or empirical work necessary for devising performance standards for sampling and collecting surface borne-allergens.
Using Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag with Seawater as Soil Additives in Lime-Clay Stabilization
Authors: Kavak Aydın , Bilgen Gamze , Capar Omer Faruk
Published: July 2011

Clayey soils are not favorable foundation for road pavement, due to their low bearing capacity and remarkable swelling potential because of water intrusion. Many previous studies demonstrated that the engineering quality of clayey soils can be improved significantly by physical and chemical stabilization techniques, thereby making clayey soils suitable for use in embankments. The present study examined the use of granulated blast furnace slag in powder-form, commercial lime and seawater to improve the engineering properties of a low-plastic clay soil. Clay soil samples were reconstituted by adding various percentages (by weight) of GGBFS, lime, and seawater at optimum water contents, based on compaction tests results. The specimens were cured for 1, 7, and 28 days. Unconfined compression and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests were conducted. The results indicated that the unconfined compression strength of the clay samples (stabilized with 5 % lime, 3.33 % GGBFS and cured for 28 days) was more than eight times the initial strength of the untreated samples, reaching 2500 kPa with seawater. Soaked CBR values also increased to more than ten times the initial value.
Derivation of Health-Based Screening Levels for Evaluating Indoor Surface Contamination
Authors: Murnyak George , Chang Hsieng-Ye
Published: July 2011

This paper describes the development of U.S. Army Public Health Command (Provisional) Technical Guide 312, Health Risk Assessment Methods and Screening Levels for Evaluating Office Worker Exposures to Contaminants on Indoor Surfaces Using Surface Wipe Data. Surface sampling of indoor surfaces may be performed to determine whether a building is safe for re-entry following an event (for example, fire, pesticide application) or change in building use (for example, laboratory to administrative office). Surface wipe sampling results may be used to assess either the degree of contamination before cleanup or to determine whether post-abatement (also post-remediation, post-clearance) actions were effective. The U.S. Army Public Health Command (Provisional) Environmental Health Risk Assessment Program has conducted risk assessments based on surface wipe sampling data and, over time, has evolved the methodology into a technical guide. The technical guide addresses the need to develop an approach to characterize potential health risk to exposed populations using surface wipe sampling results and to provide surface wipe screening levels to facilitate initial assessments. The methodology provides a means to estimate office worker exposures from inhalation of resuspended particles, dermal contact, and incidental ingestion exposure routes. Potential chemical health risks from aggregated intakes are evaluated using conventional U.S. Environmental Protection Agency risk assessment methods.
Fire in High Pressure Oxygen Filter: Analysis of an Accident in a Steel Plant
Authors: Chowdhury Kanchan
Published: July 2011

The paper analyzes the causes of an accident that took place in India in 2009 involving a filter in high pressure gaseous oxygen in a tonnage oxygen plant. It resulted in fire, explosion and damage of equipment. The roles of relevant factors behind such fires have been reviewed. Pressure and flow rate data have been analyzed and forensic analysis done in an attempt to reconstruct the chain of events leading to the fire and explosion. It has been concluded that the root cause of the accident is a wrong installation of the filter that resulted in a high accumulation of particles in the pipeline causing high pressure drop across the filter. This eventually caused a rupture in a filter candle creating a high velocity high pressure oxygen jet mixed with large particles impacting the inner sharp corner of the top cover and the bottom flange. The kinetic energy of abrasive mixture of gas and solid particles heated and ignited the sharp corner of the flange and the cover that may have propagated and finally spread as oxygen fire.