bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV risk behaviour patterns, predictors, and sexually transmitted disease prevalence in the social networks of young men who have sex with men in St Petersburg, Russia
Authors: Amirkhanian Yuri A , Kelly Jeffrey A , Kirsanova Anna V , DiFranceisco Wayne , Khoursine Roman A , Semenov Alexander V , Rozmanova Victoria N
Published: December 2005

HIV seroconversions and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are often clustered in social networks within community populations. The present study was carried out among men who have sex with men in Russia, where a major HIV epidemic is unfolding, and where social networks have played a historically important role. In all, 38 social networks were recruited into the study, and members of all networks ( n = 187) completed risk behaviour assessments and were tested for STDs. About 17% of participants had STDs, and 10% of men had syphilis. Over 64% of men had recent unprotected anal intercourse (UAI), including 51% who did so with main partners, 30% who did so with casual partners, and 32% who had UAI with multiple male partners. The strongest predictor of all risk behaviour indicators and STDs was the social network, to which an individual belonged, supplemented by peer norm perceptions and intentions to practise safer sex. There was a high level of correspondence in behaviour between the social leader of a network and its other members. Social networks should be directly targeted in HIV prevention efforts.
Multicentric Castleman's disease in a patient with HIV
Authors: Fowler A , Collins L , de Ruiter A , Whittaker S , Kulasegaram R , Bradbeer C
Published: December 2005

Multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) was originally described in non-HIV patients. It is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder, which is more commonly seen in HIV-positive patients and is associated with human herpes virus-8 (HHV-8). We describe a patient with advanced HIV who responded well to conventional highly active antiretroviral treatment. She was diagnosed with MCD soon after her diagnosis of HIV. She presented with multiple flares of her MCD. The case illustrates the difficulty of differentiating between episodes of septicaemia and a flare of MCD. The patient was treated with various chemotherapy regimens, which included several cycles of liposomal doxyrubicin and etoposide. There is currently no consensus on the treatment of MCD and various therapies are described in the literature, which include chemotherapy. Chemotherapy must be chosen with the immunosuppressive effects of the treatment being considered with caution. Both doxyrubicin and etoposide are well tolerated and successfully controlled the symptoms of MCD in our patient.
Virological, serological and epidemiological study of 255 consecutive cases of genital herpes in a sexually transmitted disease clinic of Paris (France): a prospective study
Authors: Janier M , Scieux C , Méouchi R , Tournoux C , Porcher R , Maillard A , Fouéré S , Taquin Y , Lassau F , Morel P
Published: December 2005

Some studies (mostly retrospective) have pointed to an increasing frequency (up to 60%) of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in genital herpes (GH), but they were biased towards severe or atypical cases. We wished to evaluate the frequency of HSV-1 in patients attending our clinic for both first and recurrent episodes of GH.

All patients (men and women) with genital lesions compatible with GH were included in a prospective study between May 1999 and April 2002. For all patients a standardized questionnaire, clinical examination, MRC5 culture (Dade Behring), polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-herpes consensus (Argène Biosoft) in case of negative culture and type-specific herpes serology HSV-1 and HSV-2 (Elisa Eurobio) were obtained. Predictive factors associated with HSV-1 and HSV-2 GH were studied by uni- and multivariable analyses.

In all, 255 patients had a positive culture ( n = 216) or PCR ( n = 39). A total of 248 patients had typable herpes (148 men and 100 women). Median age was 33 (27–43); 20% had anal herpes; 48% had clinically recurrent lesions; 21% were HIV +; 20% of men were homosexual; 77% practised oral sex. In all, 36 were HSV-1 (14.5%): more in women, 25/100 (25%), than in men, 11/148 (7.5%) (odds ratio [OR]: 4 [1.8–9.1], P = 0.008). HSV-1 accounted for 23% of cases of first clinical episodes (women: 31.5%;men: 14.7%) ( P = 0.02) and 6% of clinically recurrent episodes (women: 15%;men: 1.2%) (OR: 3.8 [1.6–9.1], P = 0.0033). Serological study was done in 239: primary infection was disclosed in 33 (HSV-1: 61%), HSV-2 non-primary first episode in 22 and recurrence in 184 (HSV-1: 8%). In all, 37% of recurrent episodes presented as a first clinical episode. HSV-1 was linked in men with homosexuality ( P<0.01) and anilingus ( P<0.01), in women with younger age ( P<0.01), more sexual intercourses ( P<0.0001) and more oral sex ( P<0.001). Although HSV-1 is frequent in first clinical (23%) and primary (61%) episodes of GH, recurrent GH remains mostly due to HSV-2 (94%).
Decrease of human immunodeficiency virus prevalence in antenatal clinics in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, 1995–2002
Authors: Msellati Philippe , Sakarovitch Charlotte , Bequet Laurence , Atta Hubert , Alioum Ahmadou , Viho Ida , Timothée Ouassa , Leroy Valeriane , Welffens-Ekra Christiane , Dabis François ,   ANRS Ditrame (049) and Ditrame Plus (1201) Studies Groups
Published: December 2005

Antenatal HIV seroprevalence surveys are important tools to understand the extent of the HIV epidemic in Africa. The main objective is to describe HIV prevalence trends from 1995–2002 in pregnant women consulting antenatal clinics in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. We proposed HIV test to pregnant women consulting antenatal clinics in Abidjan from 1995–2002 in a programme of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Yearly prevalence was estimated. Overall, 36,442 women were tested. Prevalence decreased from 14–15% in 1995–96 to 11% in 2002. The prevalence among 18–22-year-old women dropped from 15% in 1995 to 8% in 2002, while for older women it increased slightly, or remained stable from 1995–1999 and decreased thereafter.

HIV prevalence among women consulting antenatal clinics has been decreasing overall. This is the first such report among pregnant women in Abidjan, probably the result of different phenomena: ageing of the epidemic and behaviour changes (disease awareness and prevention campaigns).
Genital infection in male partners of women with chlamydial infection
Authors: Manavi K , McMillan A , Young H
Published: December 2005

The aim of the present study was to examine the prevalence of infection among male contacts of women with endocervical chlamydiae. The study population consisted of men who attended the Department of Genitourinary Medicine at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary as named contacts of women with endocervical chlamydiae. The diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis was based on a polymerase chain reaction.

Of 632 male contacts of 404 infected women, 155 (24%) attended the clinic, and 147 had satisfactory tests for chlamydiae; 64 (44%) men had chlamydial infection. A greater proportion of symptomatic men (14/22) were infected compared with asymptomatic men (50/125) ( P<0.02). Symptomatic men attended the department earlier (median 0.0 days) than asymptomatic male contacts (median 11 days) ( P<0.05). A greater proportion of male contacts of women with one partner (105/254) attended the clinic than those of women with two or more partners (42/112).

Better counselling policies for chlamydial infection are needed to ensure improved rate of diagnosis and treatment of male contacts.
Saxophone penis revisited
Authors: Kumaran M Sendhil , Gupta Somesh , Ajith C , Kalra Navin , Sethi Sunil , Kumar Bhushan
Published: December 2005

Saxophone deformity of the penis is commonly secondary to diseases causing chronic lymphatic obstruction. Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an important cause for this deformity. A case of LGV in genito-anorectal syndrome with a saxophone penis is reported along with the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) findings of anorectal involvement, and a probable hypothesis for this typical appearance of the penis.
Neonatal screening of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Muzaffer Mohammed Ahmed
Published: December 2005

Objective: To determine the prevalence of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in the population tested, and to evaluate the prevalence of neonatal jaundice in newborns with G6PD deficiency.

Methods: Cord blood of all babies born between October 1996 and October 1998 at the Royal Commission Medical Center in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, was screened for G6PD deficiency by fluorescent spot test. The results of screening of cord blood samples were reported to the physician in charge, and also placed on the files of the babies and their mothers. These babies were observed for 72 h and discharged if no jaundice developed.

Results: During this two-year period, 2505 neonatal cord blood samples from 1278 boys and 1227 girls were screened for G6PD. There were 50 positive results for G6PD deficiency (39 boys and 11 girls), and the prevalence was estimated to be around 2%. The sex-specific prevalence for boys was 3.05%, and for girls 0.9%. Male to female ratio was 3:1. Neonatal jaundice developed in six (12%) babies, five male and one female. All were treated with phototherapy and discharged within one week of birth.

Conclusion: The prevalence of G6PD is relatively high in Yanbu. Routine neonatal screening in areas with a high prevalence of G6PD in Saudi Arabia is justifiable.
Screening for congenital hypothyroidism: the value of retesting after four weeks in neonates with low and very low birth weight
Authors: Tylek-Lemańska Dorota , Kumorowicz-Kopiec Małgorzata , Starzyk Jerzy
Published: December 2005

Objectives: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), normally a reliable screening test for congenital hypothyroidism (CH), may fail to detect cases among infants who have low and very low birth weight. The purpose of this study was to identify neonates with false-negative screening results.

Setting: A province in Poland in which 3854 neonates had body weight ≤2500 g, between 1999 and 2001.

Methods: TSH levels in blood on filter paper were measured in all neonates between the third and sixth days after birth, but were repeated in low and very low birth weight infants after four weeks of age.

Results: The repeat test showed TSH levels ≥ 10 mIU/L in 19 of the 3854 low birth weight neonates. The final diagnosis in these neonates was permanent CH in two, transient CH in five, possible compensated CH in six and transient high TSH in six. Of the 19, 16 (84%) required iodine and/or thyroxine replacement therapy.

Conclusions: In neonates with low and very low birth weight, normal TSH levels measured between the third and sixth day of life do not exclude thyroid dysfunction, but a repeat TSH measurement after the fourth week of life identifies the false-negative results. In our data, the prevalence of primary and secondary hypothyroidism (both permanent and transient) was about 0.5%.
Improving uptake of cervical cancer screening in women with prolonged history of non-attendance for screening: a randomized trial of enhanced invitation methods
Authors: Stein K , Lewendon G , Jenkins R , Davis C
Published: December 2005

Objective: To compare the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of three methods of inviting women with a long history of non-attendance to undergo cervical screening.

Methods: Randomized controlled trial and cost-effectiveness analysis. In all, 1140 women were identified from routine NHS screening records as having no smear for at least 15 years and randomly allocated to receive a telephone call from a nurse, a letter from a well-known celebrity (Claire Rayner) or letter from the local NHS Cervical Screening Commissioner. Uptake of screening was measured using routine data and attributed to interventions if occurring within three months. Uptake was compared with a control group. Costs of carrying out the interventions were noted from the perspective of the NHS and cost-effectiveness, as cost per additional attender, calculated.

Results: Uptake following all interventions was low: telephone call (1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38–3.6%); celebrity letter (1.8, 95% CI 0.57–4.0%); commissioner letter (4.6, 95% CI 2.5–7.7%); control group (1.8, 95% CI 0.57–4.0%). There were no significant differences between groups. Telephone intervention was not possible in a quarter of women whose numbers were unlisted. Telephone intervention was the most expensive and least effective of the interventions. The commissioner letter yielded an additional attender within three months at an incremental cost of £23.21 compared with taking no action.

Conclusions: Neither a telephone call from a nurse nor a letter from a celebrity to encourage attendance for cervical screening were effective or cost-effective in women with a prolonged history of non-participation in the screening programme. A letter from the local cervical screening programme commissioner resulted in a small, non-significant increase in uptake. The low cost and ease of implementation of this intervention supports further research into its use in routine practice.
A study of Pap test history and histologically determined cervical cancer in NSW women, 1997–2003
Authors: Morrell Stephen , Taylor Richard , Wain Gerard
Published: December 2005

Objectives: To determine the risk of a histological diagnosis of cervical cancer following a given Pap test result and for a given history of Pap test results in a screened population across the full spectrum of possible cytological results.

Methods: All the Pap screening results held on the New South Wales Pap Test Register for 1997–2003 (five million tests for 1.87 million women) were analysed using Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate the odds of having a histologically determined cervical cancer for a given Pap test result and test result history. The hazard ratios of having cervical cancer in relation to Pap test result histories were estimated: (i) in regard only to the last Pap test result adjusting for age, frequency of Pap testing and proportion of high grade (≥cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 [CIN2]) abnormalities found in a woman's total recorded test result history; and (ii) with regard to the last Pap test result against the highest grade of cytological abnormality found prior to the last Pap test result. The hazard ratios are for a cancer diagnosis occurring before the next Pap test and were adjusted for age, quintile of socioeconomic status of residence, frequency of past Pap testing and proportion of high-grade abnormalities detected in each woman's prior Pap test history. The adjusted hazard ratios were then applied to the tabulated proportions of referent women with negative cytology in each broad age group, and for all women, to estimate the ′1 in n′ odds of being diagnosed histologically with cervical cancer for a given last Pap test result, and by a given last Pap test result for various prior Pap test result histories.

Results: After adjusting for age, socioeconomic status, frequency of previous Pap testing and proportion of past high-grade screen-detected abnormalities, the adjusted hazard ratio of having a subsequent cervical cancer diagnosis for women with a negative Pap test result was 1 in 5546, compared with 1 in 833 for a low-grade epithelial abnormality (atypia, CIN1), 1 in 56 for a high-grade epithelial abnormality and 1 in seven for a cytological prediction of cervical cancer. These odds estimates were significantly modified by age and by the highest Pap test result prior to the most recent Pap test result: the higher the age and, less consistently, the higher the previous highest Pap test result for a given last Pap test result, the shorter the odds of having a subsequent histological diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Conclusions: The results presented here will enable clinicians to inform their patients of their chances of being diagnosed with cervical cancer for a given Pap test result, and for some combinations of the last Pap test result and highest recorded prior Pap test result.
A New Algorithm and Computation Approach for Economic Dispatch with Prohibited Operating Zones in Power Systems
Authors: Çetinkaya Nurettin , Ürkmez Abdullah , Erkmen İsmet , Yalçinöz Tankut
Published: December 2005

This paper presents a new algorithm and computation approach to solve the economic load dispatch (ELD) in electrical power systems. We applied a new power formula to solve the ELD problem. If production units cost curves are represented properly then ELD becomes more correct. In this respect we assumed that production units have prohibited operating zones. Cost curves of the production units are generally accepted as piece-wise quadratic function. The power production is cheaper since we do not use the production units in the prohibited operating zones. The proposed method and algorithm are compared to other ELD methods on the standard test systems. The proposed method solve the dispatch problem faster than the other ELD methods.
Hydrocarbon Flow-up Intersecting Faults: Leakage/Production and Bypass Considerations
Authors: Lerche Ian
Published: December 2005

This article considers flow of hydrocarbons up a master fault that bifurcates and allows the hydrocarbons to enter or bypass reservoirs on either side of the bifurcated fault. In addition, leakage (or production) from each reservoir is allowed with a finite time span for the leakage. The rates of leakage from the two reservoirs are also allowed to be different so that the reservoirs either may fill, with concomitant bypass of excess hydrocarbons, or may be drained so rapidly by the leakage that they fill only partially. The timing of the leakage in respect of the timing of hydrocarbon fill is also included so that one can see how the differences in onset and end times of the leakage in relation to end time of the hydrocarbon supply influence the final fill of each reservoir. Uncertainties associated with each of the parameters entering the assessments are also allowed for, so that one can determine which of the uncertain parameters is causing the greatest uncertainty in estimates of the reservoir fill and bypass.
Economic Aspects of Hydrocarbon Exploration for Tilted Structures
Authors: Lerche Ian
Published: December 2005

Tilting of a structure after it has been filled with hydrocarbons has the potential to allow leakage of either oil or gas depending on the original fill volume, the location of the spill point, and the degree of tilt. Here we concentrate on assessing what the economic consequences are for decisions to explore such structures when there is uncertainty on the volumes of oil and gas retained, uncertainty on the unit costs of production, the total infrastructure costs, the unit selling price of product, and on the probability that, when titled, the structure did indeed lose hydrocarbons or not. Both deterministic examples as well as stochastic illustrations are given to show how one allows for the uncertainties in attempts to assess better the worth of proceeding, to undertake exploration. The dominant contributions to the uncertainty of the expected worth of the tilted structure are also examined with simple illustrations to show how one goes about determining where more effort is needed to narrow the range of uncertainty of those parameters causing the greatest relative fraction of the uncertainty on the exploration assessment value.
Why “Magnetic Treatment” Prevents Scale
Authors: Prisyazhniuk Vitaly A.
Published: December 2005

Based on crystallisation theory and on Royer's structural-geometrical similarity principle, the article explains why structural rearrangement initiated in a supersaturated solution by magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) resonance makes it possible to avoid formation of carbonate deposits on heat-exchange surfaces. The article also defines the scope of applicability of magnetic treatment (MHD resonance).
Maturity Parameters of Source Rocks from the Baise Basin, South China
Authors: Yuzhuang Sun , Jinxi Wang , Luofu Liu , Jianping Chen
Published: December 2005

Source rocks in the Baise Basin have been studied more than 20 yr. However, its maturity is still a problem under debate. In this project, 32 samples of source rocks from the Baise Basin were analysed by geochemical methods in order to study the maturity of the source rocks. For this article the samples were analysed for 16 different maturity parameters. Based on their quality as maturity indicators these parameters were divided into three groups: reliable, accessorial, and unsuitable maturity parameters. According to the values from the reliable and accessorial maturity groups, a source rock in two wells was classified with respect to its maturity level. The source rock in the Nadu 1 well is assessed to be in the lower mature stage, whereas the source rock in the Nadu 2 well was assessed to be in the mature stage.
Estimation of the Transmissibility of Anti-Vibration Gloves when Used with Specific Tools
Authors: Dong Ren G. , Welcome Dan E. , McDowell Thomas W. , Rakheja Subhash
Published: December 2005

Anti-vibration gloves are increasingly being used as personal protective equipment to help reduce the hazards of hand-transmitted vibration. A vibration transfer function method for estimating the tool-specific performance of anti-vibration gloves has been proposed to help select appropriate gloves for particular tools and to assess the potential risks posed by tool vibration. This study evaluates the validity of the method by comparing the predicted vibration transmissibility with the measured value. Two typical vibration-attenuating gloves (air-bladder and visco-elastic material gloves) were used in the study. Two series of experiments were performed for the evaluation. In the first series, the isolation efficiency of selected anti-vibration gloves was evaluated in the laboratory under synthesized handle vibration spectra of six different tools. The second series of tests involved the measurement of the glove transmissibility, while operating two different pneumatic chipping hammers. The results of the study show reasonably good agreements between the predicted and measured acceleration transmissibility values of the candidate gloves. It is thus concluded that the transfer function method provides a reasonably good estimate of vibration attenuation performance of gloves for specific tools.
Condition Monitoring of Fatigue Cracks in Machinery Blades
Authors: Gelman L.
Published: December 2005

A novel generic approach to fatigue crack diagnostics in machinery blades is proposed and employed. The approach consists of simultaneously using two new diagnostic features: the real and imaginary parts of the Fourier transform of vibroacoustical signal generated from a blade. This approach is more generic than traditional approach based on the power spectral density; the power spectral density is a particular case of the proposed approach.

Numerical examples are given based on the processing of signals generated using a nonlinear model of a blade. The signals generated are the resonant vibroacoustical oscillations of cracked and uncracked blades under narrowband vibration excitation. The numerical examples show that the crack detection is more effective when using the new approach than when using the power spectral density approach. The presented experimental results are matched with the numerical results. The proposed approach offers an effectiveness improvement over the traditional approach based on power spectral density.
Development of an Active Noise Cancellation Hearing Protector: How Can Passive Attenuation Be Retained?
Authors: Oinonen Mika , Raittinen Harri , Kivikoski Markku
Published: December 2005

The modest low-frequency attenuation of the conventional passive hearing protector can be improved electronically by active noise cancellation techniques. This paper presents the theory and some of the actual limitations of an active noise cancellation hearing protector. Three prototypes with similar types of controller, but with different mechanical construction were made and their performance was measured. The electronics of the system were implemented using analog electronics and feedback construction. The measurement results were compared with the results of an equivalent passive hearing protector with no internal electronics and with an intact earcup. The results show that the integration of the controller inside the earcups degrades the passive attenuation of the hearing protector at frequencies below 200 Hz. With proper design, an active noise cancellation hearing protector can still have 15 dB more noise attenuation at 100 - 200 Hz range than an equivalent passive hearing protector.
Tradable Certificates for Energy Savings: Opportunities, Challenges, and Prospects for Integration with other Market Instruments in the Energy Sector
Authors: Bertoldi Paolo , Rezessy Silvia , Ürge-Vorsatz Diana
Published: December 2005

Policy portfolios that include tradable green certificates have been introduced in several European countries to foster market-driven penetration of renewable energy sources. Another widely analysed type of market-based instrument in the energy sector is the tradable emission allowance. Recently tradable certificates for energy savings as a tool to stimulate energy efficiency investments and deliver energy savings have attracted the attention of policy makers. While such schemes have been introduced in different forms in Italy and the Great Britain and considered in other European countries, there is an ongoing debate over their effectiveness and applicability.

The paper describes the concept and main elements of schemes that involve tradable certificates for energy savings (TCES) and how these have been put into practice in Italy and the Great Britain. It then compares TCES schemes with energy taxation and mandatory demand-side management (DSM) programs using a set of four criteria. Integration with green certificates and CO2 emissions trading schemes is examined and some possibilities for practical implementation are outlined.
Analysing Convergence with a Multi-Country Computable General Equilibrium Model: PPP versus Mer
Authors: Dixon Peter B. , Rimmer Maureen T.
Published: December 2005

In studies of the greenhouse gas implications of convergence by developing countries to the per-capita GNPs of developed countries, considerable discussion has centred on whether purchasing power parity (PPP) or market exchange rates (MER) should be used in measuring per-capita GNPs. We suggest that technology gaps between developing and developed countries should be the starting point for convergence analysis rather than per-capita GNP gaps. We estimate two sets of initial technology gaps, using PPP and MER price assumptions combined with input-output data. In simulating the effects of closing technology gaps (convergence) using a dynamic, multi-country CGE model, we find:

the MER/PPP distinction matters. MER-based estimates of initial technology gaps lead to higher estimates of convergence-induced growth in greenhouse-gas-emitting industries in developing countries than do PPP-based estimates. the industry detail in CGE models is valuable. Our simulations show a wide range of convergence-induced changes in output across industries.
Fiscal Reform of Fuel Regulation in Brazil: Recent Developments and Environmental Implications
Authors: Hinostroza Miriam , Sauer Ildo Luis , Guerra Sinclair M-G
Published: December 2005

Internationally the fossil fuel-based energy sector now faces increasing uncertainties due to changes in its fiscal regulation, prompted by pressure for environmental regulation. These changes typically eliminate some taxes at the beginning of the oil production chain, but compensate for these by increasing taxation on consumption. In Brazil, fiscal reform proposals focus not on environmental arguments but on the elimination of excess levies and red tape and on increasing equity across income classes. However, liberalization process of oil and gas industries in Brazil has led to modifications in fuels taxation. This article discusses current Brazilian fiscal policy as related to fossil fuels, explaining the nature of recently introduced contribution for economic regulation (Contribuição de Intervenção ao Domínio Econômico, CIDE) and the impacts on price formation. It also shows how those modifications tend to include external costs from activities in the fuel sector; through revenues from a levy earmarked for two purposes: i) funding investments in projects deemed to be environmentally beneficial, and, ii) improvements in road infrastructure aimed at reducing emissions from transportation. Some ideas on how to improve use of the levy to perk up fuel alcohol competitiveness are also discussed.
Effects of Leisure Activity Related Noise in Residential Zones
Authors: Morillas J.M. Barrigón , Escobar V. Gómez , Sierra J.A. Méndez , Vílchez-Gómez R. , Vaquero J.M.
Published: December 2005

An analysis of two noise surveys of the city of Cáceres is presented. The first was made for 400 inhabitants living throughout the city, and the second for 50 inhabitants of a conflictive zone due to noise during the night, mainly at weekends. The similarity of the two groups of persons interviewed was studied and verified. Then a comparison was made of the responses referring to disturbing noise sources and effects of noise. The results showed appreciable differences between the two surveys. Some continuous sound pressure level measurements made over several days are also presented. They show major differences in the sound levels between the zone and the rest of the city.
The Significance of the Incident Sound Field on the Sound Transmission Loss of a Finite Panel
Authors: Trevathan Jeremy W. , Pearse John R.
Published: December 2005

Results are presented for the numerically predicted sound transmission loss of a finite panel excited by plane wave sources at various angles of incidence. It is shown that the limitation commonly imposed upon the integration of the ‘mass law’ is not arbitrary. Rather, it is the upper integration limit at which a function dependent on cos2 (the ‘mass law’), when integrated, becomes equal to a function dependent on cos (the method used in this study, the ISO 140 experimental method) which has been integrated from zero to 90 degrees.

The current definition of sound transmission loss implicitly assumes that a plane wave sound source at normal incidence to the panel surface will produce the highest level of excitation in the panel, and as the angle of incidence is increased the panel will experience decreasing levels of excitation. However, it is shown here that the excitation experienced by a panel due to a plane wave source is almost independent of the angle of incidence.
Effects of Angle of Attack and Velocity on Trailing Edge Noise Determined Using Microphone Array Measurements
Authors: Hutcheson Florence V. , Brooks Thomas F.
Published: December 2005

Trailing edge (TE) noise measurements for a NACA 63–215 airfoil model are presented, providing benchmark experimental data for a cambered airfoil. The effects of flow Mach number and angle of attack of the airfoil model with different TE bluntnesses are shown. Far-field noise spectra and directivity are obtained using a directional microphone array. Standard and diagonal removal beamforming techniques are evaluated employing tailored weighting functions for quantitatively accounting for the distributed line character of TE noise. Diagonal removal processing is used for the primary database as it successfully removes noise contaminants. Some TE noise predictions are reported to help interpret the data with respect to effects of flow speed, angle of attack, and TE bluntness on spectral shape and peak levels. Important findings include the validation of a TE noise directivity function for different airfoil angles of attack and the demonstration of the importance of the directivity function's convective amplification terms.
The Cobalamin-Binding Proteins Transcobalamin and Haptocorrin in Maternal and Cord Blood Sera at Birth
Authors: Obeid Rima , Morkbak Anne L , Munz Winfried , Nexo Ebba , Herrmann Wolfgang
Published: December 2005

Background: Two proteins carry vitamin B12 in plasma. Transcobalamin (TC) carries ∼25% of total plasma vitamin B12 and is 6% to 20% saturated with cobalamin. Haptocorrin (HC) binds ∼80% of total cobalamin and is largely saturated with cobalamin.

Methods: We investigated the distribution and the relationship between concentrations of cobalamin, total and holo forms of TC, and HC in blood samples from pregnant women just before delivery (n = 92) and in cord blood samples from their newborn babies. We also investigated the relationship between these proteins and concentrations of methylmalonic acid (MMA), the functional marker of vitamin B12 status.

Results: Concentrations of total serum cobalamin, total HC, holoHC, and percentage of HC saturation were higher in cord blood than in the maternal blood (mean cobalamin, 268 vs 188 pmol/L; total HC, 648 vs 538 pmol/L; holoHC, 441 vs 237 pmol/L; HC saturation, 70% vs 47%). Moreover, total TC was low in cord blood, whereas both holoTC and TC saturation were higher in cord blood than in the maternal blood (mean total TC, 654 vs 1002 pmol/L; holoTC, 118 vs 53 pmol/L; TC saturation, 19.8% vs 5.4%). Higher maternal serum cobalamin was associated with higher cord blood holoTC and TC saturation (P <0.05). Gestational age was also a significant determinant of baby total TC, TC saturation, total HC, and holoHC.

Conclusion: The close correlation between the amounts of holoTC present in cord blood and in maternal serum supports the importance of maternal cobalamin status for ensuring a sufficient supply to the baby.
Potential Application of ELAVL4 Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription-PCR for Detection of Disseminated Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Swerts Katrien , De Moerloose Barbara , Dhooge Catharina , Vandesompele Jo , Hoyoux Claire , Beiske Klaus , Benoit Yves , Laureys Geneviève , Philippé Jan
Published: December 2005

Background: Reliable detection of neuroblastoma cells in bone marrow (BM) is critical because BM involvement influences staging, risk assessment, and evaluation of therapeutic response in neuroblastoma patients. Standard cytomorphologic examination of BM aspirates is sensitive enough to detect single tumor cells. Consequently, more sensitive and specific detection methods are indispensable.

Methods: We used real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (QPCR) of the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), GD2 synthetase (GALGT), and embryonic lethal, abnormal vision, Drosophila-like 4 (ELAVL4) genes to detect disseminated neuroblastoma cells. We assessed assay sensitivity by addition experiments and then analyzed 97 neuroblastic tumor, BM, peripheral blood (PB), or peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) samples from 30 patients. The QPCR results were compared with those of a standardized immunocytochemical assay.

Results: The molecular markers were highly expressed in all evaluated tumor samples. In addition, 32%, 11%, and 38% of all BM, PB, and PBSC samples scored positive for TH, GALGT, or ELAVL4, respectively. The TH and ELAVL4 assays could detect 1 neuroblastoma cell in 106 mononuclear cells. By contrast, the GALGT QPCR assay could detect 1 neuroblastoma cell in 104 mononuclear cells. We assessed the potential prognostic value of TH, GALGT, and ELAVL4 QPCR by analyzing subsequent samples from 3 patients with stage 4 disease. Preliminary results indicated that persistence of high ELAVL4 expression has prognostic value.

Conclusions: ELAVL4 QPCR can be used to detect residual neuroblastoma cells in clinical samples. However, combination of several molecular markers and screening techniques should be considered to ensure reliable detection of rare neuroblastoma cells.
Measurement of Erythrocyte Inosine Triphosphate Pyrophosphohydrolase (ITPA) Activity by HPLC and Correlation of ITPA Genotype-Phenotype in a Caucasian Population
Authors: Shipkova Maria , Lorenz Kristin , Oellerich Michael , Wieland Eberhard , von Ahsen Nicolas
Published: December 2005

Background: Inosine triphosphate (ITP) pyrophosphohydrolase (ITPA) catalyzes the pyrophosphohydrolysis of ITP/dITP and xanthosine triphosphate to prevent incorporation of unusual nucleotides into RNA and DNA. Important mutations leading to enzyme deficiency are 94C>A and IVS2 + 21A>C. An association between ITPA 94C>A and adverse reactions during azathioprine treatment has been shown. To investigate the ITPA phenotype, an HPLC procedure was developed and phenotype-genotype correlations were assessed.

Methods: The enzymatic conversion of ITP to inosine monophosphate (IMP) was terminated by perchloric acid and saturated dipotassium hydrogen phosphate. We quantified the IMP at 262 nm after separation on an Aqua perfect C18 column using 20 mmol/L phosphate buffer, pH 2.5. We also genotyped samples for ITPA 94C>A and IVS2 + 21A>C by real-time fluorescence PCR.

Results: The assay was linear to 3 mmol/L IMP [∼500 μmol/(g Hb · h)] with a lower limit of quantification of 4 μmol/L [∼0.5 μmol/(g Hb · h)]. With IMP-enriched samples, within- and between-day imprecision was ≤3.6% and ≤4.9%, respectively, and the inaccuracy was ≤5.2%. With pooled erythrocytes, within- and between-day imprecision was 3.8% and 7.5%, respectively. ITPA activity in 130 healthy controls was between <0.5 and 408 μmol IMP/(g Hb · h). Mutant allele frequencies were 0.062 (94C>A) and 0.131 (IVS2 + 21A>C). When we used a cutoff of 125 μmol IMP/(g Hb · h), phenotyping detected all 94C>A mutant cases, all 94C>A and IVS2 + 21A>C compound heterozygotes, all IVS2 + 21A>C homozygotes, and 6 of 24 IVS2 + 21A>C heterozygote-only cases. A novel IVS2 + 68T>C mutation was also found.

Conclusions: The HPLC procedure provides an excellent ITPA phenotype-genotype correlation and led to the discovery of a novel IVS2 + 68T>C mutation. The method could facilitate investigation of the role of ITPA activity for drug toxicity during thiopurine therapy.
STEC-EPEC Oligonucleotide Microarray: A New Tool for Typing Genetic Variants of the LEE Pathogenicity Island of Human and Animal Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) Strains
Authors: Garrido Patricia , Blanco Miguel , Moreno-Paz Mercedes , Briones Carlos , Dahbi Ghizlane , Blanco Jesús , Blanco Jorge , Parro Víctor
Published: December 2005

Background: Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) are important emerging pathogens that can cause a severe and sometimes fatal illness. Differentiation of eae, tir, espA, espD, and espB gene variants of the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) pathogenicity island represents an important tool for typing in routine diagnostics as well as in pathogenesis, epidemiologic, clonal, and immunologic studies.

Methods: Type-specific oligonucleotide microarrays and a PCR scheme were designed and constructed for the detection and typing of genetic variants of the LEE genes. Oligonucleotide probes were tested for their specificity against the corresponding type strain by microarray hybridization using fluorescent DNA, either PCR-amplified (single, multiplex, long-range), chromosomal, or amplified chromosomal DNA.

Results: The PCR scheme and the oligonucleotide microarray allowed us to distinguish 16 variants (α1, α2, β1, β2, γ1, γ2/θ, δ/κ, ε, ζ, η, ι, λ, μ, ν, ξ, ο) of the eae gene, 4 variants (α1, β1, γ1, γ2/θ) of the tir gene, 4 variants (α1, β1, β2, γ1) of the espA gene, 3 variants (α1, β1, γ1) of the espB gene, and 3 variants (α1, β1, γ1) of the espD gene. We found a total of 12 different combinations of tir, espA, espB, and espD genes among the 25 typed strains.

Conclusions: The PCR scheme and the oligonucleotide microarray described are effective tools to rapidly screen multiple virulence genes and their variants in E. coli strains isolated from human and animal infections. The results demonstrate the great genetic diversity among LEE genes of human and animal STEC and EPEC strains.
Fast and Efficient Determination of Arginine, Symmetric Dimethylarginine, and Asymmetric Dimethylarginine in Biological Fluids by Hydrophilic-Interaction Liquid Chromatography–Electrospray Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Martens-Lobenhoffer Jens , Bode-Böger Stefanie M
Published: December 2005

Background: Nitric oxide is synthesized from the amino acid Arg by the enzyme endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which is competitively inhibited by the arginine metabolite asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). In this way, increased concentrations of ADMA lead to reduced nitric oxide production associated with a range of cardiac diseases. Research in this field requires the measurement of Arg and of ADMA and its closely related substance, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA).

Methods: We quantified Arg, ADMA, and SDMA in human plasma, human urine, and cell culture supernatant by HPLC–electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. Sample preparation required only protein precipitation. Separation was by liquid chromatography on a 150 × 3 mm silica column with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of water–acetonitrile–trifluoroacetic acid–propionic acid (10:90:0.025:1 by volume). The chromatographic run time was 7 min.

Results: The chromatograms were interference-free in all matrices. In the low-concentration quality-control samples, the interassay CVs in plasma were 4.7% for Arg, 7.7% for ADMA, and 4.9% for SDMA. Similar values were obtained in urine and cell culture supernatants. The calibration functions were linear and covered the ranges of healthy and pathologic samples.

Conclusion: The new method requires neither derivatization nor complete chromatographic separation between ADMA and SDMA for quantification of the 3 metabolites, has calibration functions that are independent of the sample matrix, and provides measured concentrations that agree with those reported in the literature.
Increased Plasma Markers of Oxidative Stress Are Associated with Coronary Heart Disease in Males with Diabetes Mellitus and with 10-Year Risk in a Prospective Sample of Males
Authors: Stephens Jeffrey W , Gable David R , Hurel Steven J , Miller George J , Cooper Jackie A , Humphries Steve E
Published: December 2005

Background: Increased oxidative stress is associated with coronary heart disease (CHD). We examined the association between plasma markers of oxidative stress and CHD in a cross-sectional sample of patients with diabetes and prospective CHD risk in a sample of men predominantly without diabetes.

Methods: Plasma total antioxidant status (TAOS) and the ratio of oxidized LDL (Ox-LDL) to LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) were determined in a cross-section of 761 Caucasian individuals with diabetes (UDACS study). Plasma TAOS was also determined in 310 baseline samples from a 10-year prospective cohort of 3012 healthy males (NPHSII).

Results: Within UDACS, males with CHD had lower mean (SD) plasma TAOS [no CHD, 43.4 (13.2)%; CHD, 40.3 (13.8)%; P = 0.04]. The prevalence of CHD was higher in the lowest compared with the upper quartiles (32.7% vs 19.7%; P = 0.004). We observed a significant association between plasma Ox-LDL:LDL-C and CHD status [no CHD vs CHD, 16.9 (3.1) vs 19.3 (5.0) units/mmol; P = 0.04], with the prevalence of CHD being higher among men in the upper compared with lower quartiles (18.4% vs 35.1%; P = 0.003). No association was observed in females. In NPHSII, TAOS was lower in those who developed CHD [35.1 (8.0)% vs 37.1 (7.9)%; P = 0.04]. The odds ratio for CHD in the lowest compared with the upper quartile was 1.91 (95% confidence interval, 0.99–3.70; P = 0.04). This remained unchanged after adjustment for classic risk factors.

Conclusions: A cross-sectional and prospective association exists between baseline plasma measures of oxidative stress and CHD risk. The association with prospective CHD risk remained after adjustment for “traditional” risk factors, implying an independent role for oxidative stress in CHD risk.
Detection of Alternatively Spliced Transcripts in Leukemia Cell Lines by Minisequencing on Microarrays
Authors: Milani Lili , Fredriksson Mona , Syvänen Ann-Christine
Published: December 2005

Background: Recent genome-wide expression studies suggest that ∼80% of the 25 000 human genes undergo alternative splicing. Alternative splicing may be associated with human diseases, particularly with cancer, but the molecular disease mechanisms are poorly understood. Convenient, novel methods for multiplexed detection of alternatively spliced transcripts are needed.

Methods: We devised a new approach for detecting splice variants based on a tag-microarray minisequencing system, originally developed for genotyping single-nucleotide polymorphisms. We established the system for multiplexed detection of 61 alternatively spliced transcripts in a panel of 19 cancer-related genes and used it to dissect the splicing patterns in cancer and endothelial cells.

Results: Our microarray system detected 82% of the splice variants screened for, including both simple and complex splice variants, in at least 1 of the leukemia cell types analyzed. The intraassay CV values for our method ranged from 0.01 to 0.34 (mean, 0.13) for 5 replicate measurements. Our system allowed semiquantitative comparison of the splicing patterns between the cell lines. Similar, but not identical, patterns of alternative splicing were observed among the leukemia cell lines. Size analysis of the PCR products subjected to the tag-array minisequencing system and real-time PCR with exon-junction probes verified the results from the microarray system.

Conclusions: The microarray-based method is a robust and easily accessible tool for parallel detection of alternatively spliced transcripts of multiple genes. It can be used for studying alternative splicing in cancer progression and for following up drug treatment, and it may be a useful tool in clinical diagnostics for cancer and other disorders.
The Case for a Voluntary National Healthcare Identifier
Authors: Hieb BR
Published: December 2005

This paper describes a proposed system to create a voluntary national healthcare identification (VNHID) system for the United States. This system would be implemented in addition to the national linkage mechanisms currently being proposed as part of a national health information network. It will provide demonstrable improvements in the privacy, security, and efficiency of the system. It would also eliminate a significant set of errors inherent in the currently proposed health information linkage system. The proposed VNHID system is able to meet the vast majority of the objections that have previously been raised concerning a national healthcare identifier on the basis of privacy concerns. The system has the potential to be implemented rapidly and would not require the development of a national consensus prior to implementation.
Story of MEGADAC 200: Keeping 200-Channel Legacy Data Acquisition Hardware Running by Developing a New Software Interface
Authors: Kalny O , Peterman RJ , Huang C
Published: December 2005

This paper deals with a 16-bit 200-channel legacy data acquisition system from the 1980s—megadac 200. megadac is controlled by ASCII strings originating from the host computer connected via a serial (RS-232) port. The original software package for megadac was written in basic and runs only in the dos operating system on an Intel 386 processor, because of memory addressing issues. To interface megadac from a modern computer, a new software interface [Object Oriented Blue Box (oobluebox)] was created using the C++ programming language. This paper describes details of object oriented implementation, architecture of the graphical user interface, and other implementation details including communication with the port. oobluebox enables one to define and calibrate internally energized strain gage sensors and externally energized sensors with voltage output, set up experiment tables for multichannel data acquisition, and perform data acquisition. Several special features, such as channel calibration and run-time plotting were also introduced.