bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Agent Arsenic Trioxide in the Treatment of Newly Diagnosed Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: Long-Term Follow-Up Data
Authors: Mathews Vikram , George Biju , Chendamarai Ezhilarasi , Lakshmi Kavitha M. , Desire Salamun , Balasubramanian Poonkuzhali , Viswabandya Auro , Thirugnanam Rajashekar , Abraham Aby , Shaji Ramachandran Velayudhan , Srivastava Alok , Chandy Mammen
Published: July 2010

Purpose

We previously reported our results with a single-agent arsenic trioxide (ATO) –based regimen in newly diagnosed cases of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The concern remained about the long-term outcome of this well-tolerated regimen. We report our long-term follow-up data on the same cohort.

Patients and Methods

From January 1998 to December 2004, 72 patients with PML/RARα+ APL were enrolled. All patients were treated with a single-agent ATO regimen.

Results

Overall 62 (86.1%) achieved a hematologic remission (complete remission). After the initial report, an additional seven patients have relapsed for a total of 13 relapses. There were no additional toxicities to report on follow-up. At a median follow-up 60 months, the 5-year Kaplan-Meier estimate (± SE) of event-free survival, disease-free survival, and overall survival (OS) was 69% ± 5.5%, 80% ± 5.2%, and 74.2% ± 5.2%, respectively. The OS in the good risk group as defined by us remains 100% over this period.

Conclusion

Single-agent ATO as used in this study in the management of newly diagnosed cases of APL is safe and is associated with durable responses. Results in the low-risk group are comparable to that reported with conventional therapy while additional interventions would probably be required in high-risk cases.
Scale to Predict Survival After Surgery for Recurrent Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Park John K. , Hodges Tiffany , Arko Leopold , Shen Michael , Dello Iacono Donna , McNabb Adrian , Olsen Bailey Nancy , Kreisl Teri Nguyen , Iwamoto Fabio M. , Sul Joohee , Auh Sungyoung , Park Grace E. , Fine Howard A. , Black Peter McL.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Despite initial treatment with surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) virtually always recurs. Surgery is sometimes recommended to treat recurrence. In this study, we sought to devise a preoperative scale that predicts survival after surgery for recurrent glioblastoma multiforme.

Patients and Methods

The preoperative clinical and radiographic data of 34 patients who underwent re-operation of recurrent GBM tumors were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression modeling. The factors associated with decreased postoperative survival (P < .05) were used to devise a prognostic scale which was validated with a separate cohort of 109 patients.

Results

The factors associated with poor postoperative survival were: tumor involvement of prespecified eloquent/critical brain regions (P = .021), Karnofsky performance status (KPS) ≤ 80 (P = .030), and tumor volume ≥ 50 cm3 (P = .048). An additive scale (range, 0 to 3 points) comprised of these three variables distinguishes patients with good (0 points), intermediate (1 to 2 points), and poor (3 points) postoperative survival (median survival, 10.8, 4.5, and 1.0 months, respectively; P < .001). The scale identified three statistically distinct groups within the validation cohort as well (median survival, 9.2, 6.3, and 1.9 months, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusion

We devised and validated a preoperative scale that identifies patients likely to have poor, intermediate, and good relative outcomes after surgical resection of a recurrent GBM tumor. Application of this simple scale may be useful in counseling patients regarding their treatment options and in designing clinical trials.
Crossed patch arrangements of linear triangular elements for upper bound finite-element analysis of plane strain deformation problems
Authors: Chang C C
Published: July 2010

In standard linear finite-element formulations, volumetric locking because of the incompressibility constraint that may occur in computational plasticity is often encountered. This study uses crossed patch arrangements of triangles to form quadrilateral elements in order to overcome the locking in the upper bound finite-element analysis of plane strain deformation problems. The velocity field is described in terms of linear triangular elements, while the incompressibility constraint is imposed by quadrilateral elements. Rigid, perfectly plastic materials, and strain hardening materials that form the von Mises model have been considered. The velocity formulation is presented and has been implemented in a finite-element code. Several examples, some benchmarks problems, are presented to illustrate the applicability of the approach for predicting the load, strain, and velocity field during the plastic deformation. Numerical results show that the crossed patch arrangements of linear triangular elements are free of volumetric locking and achieve well-defined limit loads. This study shows that the presented method can be used to simulate large plastic deformation under plane strain conditions.
Multi-objective design optimization of the complete valve system in an adjustable linear hydraulic damper
Authors: Wang W L , Yang X J , Xu G X , Huang Y
Published: July 2010

Adjustable linear hydraulic dampers are widely used in high-speed trains to improve their ride comfort and stability, the distinctive damping characteristics of the dampers are intrinsically predetermined by their inner complete valve systems. Therefore, design of the complete valve system parameters for each damper type is of crucial importance. A multi-objective design optimization model for the concept of optimizing both the technical and economic capabilities of a three-valve complete valve system in a hydraulic damper was formulated, based on full damper dynamics modelling. A linear weighted criterion method was used to transform the established multi-objective problem to a single-objective problem, and a computer package employing the genetic algorithm for the optimization search was developed. Implementation of the design optimization was performed, and an optimal result, with about 10.29 per cent improvement of the overall fitness value, was obtained. Simulation results show that the optimal result satisfies all the competing objectives well within the constraints, except for some minor and tolerable tradeoffs in the relief valve response performance. Prototype experiments validated that the prototype dampers have obtained excellent damping characteristics, as expected. Thus, the complete valve system of the hydraulic damper was comprehensively optimized, with respect to both the technical and economic concerns. The approach developed in this work has already been applied to the engineering design of several hydraulic damper products in industry.
Modelling and characteristics analysis of the pitch system of large scale wind turbines
Authors: Dai J-C , Hu Y-P , Liu D-S , Long X
Published: July 2010

The individual pitch drive system of large-scale wind turbines was analysed in this article. In this pitch system, the induction motor, three-stage planetary gearbox, and motor vector control were adopted. In order to investigate the system dynamic behaviour, its non-linear dynamical model was established, mainly including three parts: induction motor model in d— q frame, dynamic model of three-stage planetary gears, and transmission shaft model. The dynamic responses of gearbox—blade subsystem and motor—gearbox—blade system were analysed in detail, respectively. Then, the pitch system control model was established in which rotor flux field-oriented vector control and double close-loop servo control with speed and position feedback were employed. In simulation, the algorithm TR-BDF2 was adopted to solve the dynamic equations. The research results show that the deviation between the pitch angle and its command value is very small in steady state, pitch speed and acceleration fluctuations appear when impact effect is produced due to gear backlash, and the different blade may have different variable pitch speed and acceleration in some pitch region. The research results give a reasonable explanation for running mechanism of the individual pitch system and are helpful for optimization design and control for the individual blade pitch control system used in large-scale wind turbines.
Conformal elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis for engine bearing design: A brief review
Authors: Booker J F , Boedo S , Bonneau D
Published: July 2010

The history and current state of conformal elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis for engine bearing design is reviewed through a large sample of its published literature.

Major themes of the physical models and solution methods are examined, together with attention to important special categories of current research.
Qualitative Comparison of the Characteristics of Articulated and Non-Articulated Trains and Their Effects on Impact
Authors: Xue X , Ingleton S , Roberts J , Robinson M
Published: July 2010

This article presents a qualitative comparison of the key characteristics and subsequent impact performance for articulated and non-articulated train types. The fundamental purpose of the article is through a review of articulated and non-articulated trains in terms of impact stability to identify and compare the areas referred to as ‘impact worthiness’ design.

The major differences between articulated and non-articulated trains are highlighted first. Then, the mechanical reasons leading to the differences and their consequences to impact performance are analysed from three viewpoints: coupling stiffness and freedom, support and coupling patterns, and carbody structural features. The analysis shows that the differences in bogie support positions on the carbody and the effects on coupling devices lead to differences in several structural and compositional characteristics, including height of gravity of the carbody, length of the vehicle, the composition of the end panel, stiffness of coupling device, number of support points to vehicle, and support height of the secondary suspension.

These characteristics result in different impact responses for the two types of train and are directly related to subsequent behaviour. Articulated trains show stiff connection and integral performance in collisions but with less capability for absorbing impact energy between vehicles, whereas non-articulated trains show flexible connection with more random behaviour in collisions but with greater options for energy absorber installation between vehicles.
A Method for the Prediction of Head Checking Initiation Location and Orientation under Operational Loading Conditions
Authors: Dollevoet R , Li Z , Arias-Cuevas O
Published: July 2010

Head checking (HC) as a surface-initiated rolling contact fatigue damage in rails has been a problem for many railways. Countermeasures such as optimal design of wheel and rail profiles, optimal design of the vehicle-track interaction system, HC-resistant rail materials, etc. are being developed. Such development requires a better understanding of the relationship between the operational loading conditions of the rails and the initiation of HC. This article presents an effective non-Hertzian method for evaluating the stress state on the rail and wheel surfaces under operational conditions, so that HC initiation location and orientation can be directly related to the stress. It is shown that the HC initiation location and orientation derived from the computed stress state are in agreement with those observed in the field.
Railway Axle Design: To be Based on Fatigue Initiation or Crack Propagation?
Authors: Lundén R , Vernersson T , Ekberg A
Published: July 2010

Design and standardization of railway axles from the mechanical-strength point of view is discussed and a brief state-of-the-art survey is given. Traditional fatigue design with the ‘safe-life’ approach and a design with the more recent crack-propagation/defect-tolerance approach are described and compared. Axles of a standard freight wheelset (22.5 tonne axle load) and of two heavy haul wheelsets (25 and 31 tonne axle loads) are used for illustration. From the numerical results it is concluded that a crack-propagation/defect-tolerance approach could be a useful complement to the traditional fatigue design method. A result of particular interest is the fairly strong influence of stresses from the press-/shrink-fitting on the residual life of the axles.
Track Condition Analyser: Identification of Rail Rolling Surface Defects, Likely to Generate Fatigue Damage in Wheels, Using Instrumented Wheelset Measurements
Authors: Gullers P , Dreik P , Nielsen J C O , Ekberg A , Andersson L
Published: July 2010

Vertical wheel—rail contact forces with high magnitudes are generated in vehicle operation on track sections with periodic (rail corrugation) or discrete (rail joints, crossings) surface defects and/or in operations with out-of-round wheels. This may result in severe wheel damage, such as subsurface rolling contact fatigue and deep shelling. Based on input data in the form of contact forces measured by an instrumented wheelset, including contributions with frequencies up to about 2 kHz, a track condition analyser (TCA) has been developed. The dominating and most frequently occurring types of rail rolling surface defects can be detected, their location along the line can be determined, and their detrimental effect on the fatigue life of wheels can be estimated. This means that the TCA can be used as a tool to assess the current track quality and determine the need for immediate and planned track maintenance. Using the instrumented wheelset on a Swedish passenger train, the 450 km line Stockholm—Gothenburg can be measured in both directions during an 8 h test campaign.
Surface Nanostructuring of Interstitial Free Steel by Wire Brushing
Authors: Dehghani K , Nasirizadeh M , Bagherzadeh S
Published: July 2010

The surface-severe plastic deformation (SSPD) has several advantages since many important properties such as fatigue, wear, corrosion, capability of coatings, dent resistance, etc. are directly influenced by the surface characteristics. Warm wire bushing is introduced here as a new, easy, and simple technique to perform warm surface-severe plastic deformation (SSPD). The process was modelled using finite-element method (FEM) to predict the required strain to attain the nanograins on surface of an interstitial free steel. The results show that warm SSPP at 350 °C resulted in a strain of about 3.6 required to form nanograins by SSPD. The SSPD carried out under the conditions predicted by simulation led to the formation of nanograins, 100±20 nm, within a surface layer about 50 μ m thick. The nanostructured layers were then characterized by using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques.
The Effect of Moisture Content on the Tensile Behaviour of Polyamide 6 Nanocomposites
Authors: Rajeesh K R , Gnanamoorthy R , Velmurugan R
Published: July 2010

Polymers and their composites offer high strength-to-weight ratio and good corrosion resistance. However, they have a good affinity towards moisture and the absorbed moisture affects their mechanical behaviour. This article discusses the tensile behaviour of polyamide 6 nanocomposite containing different levels of absorbed water. The absorption of water influences the tensile strength, tensile modulus, and fracture morphology of the polyamide 6 nanocomposites. Although crystallinity increases due to the absorption of water, the modulus and tensile strength were found to be decreasing because of the plasticization effect, which overcomes the effect of marginal increase in crystallinity.
Ureterorenoscopic removal of renal stones: cost-effective patient friendly method in rural areas
Authors: Gnanaraj J , Ellapan Balaji
Published: July 2010

Treatment of moderate-sized renal stones is difficult; we describe here a simple noninvasive method of removing them using the ureterorenoscope, the lithoclast and prior Double ‘J’ stenting. This method was successful in 101 out of 133 patients.
Disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial disease in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome in the south of Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Rodrigo Pires , Scheid Karin , Goldani Luciano Zubaran
Published: July 2010

A retrospective cohort was studied in order to evaluate mortality of patients with disseminated non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease in Brazil. This diagnosis was neglected in 44.4% of patients, and in-hospital mortality was 41.7%.
Severe myopathy caused by the new pandemic influenza A (H1N1) in a child
Authors: Dinler Gönül , Şensoy Gülnar , Sungur Metin , Aşılıoğlu Nazik , Taşdemir Haydar Ali , Kalaycı Ayhan Gazi
Published: July 2010

Myopathy is a rare complication of influenza infections. Here, we report on an eight-year-old girl with severe myopathy due to new pandemic influenza A (H1N1). She presented with severe myopathy following generalized tonic-clonic seizure and recovered completely within a few days.
Expression of FAM20C in the Osteogenesis and Odontogenesis of Mouse
Authors: Wang Xiaofang , Hao Jianjun , Xie Yixia , Sun Yao , Hernandez Brianda , Yamoah Albert K. , Prasad Monica , Zhu Qinglin , Feng Jian Q. , Qin Chunlin
Published: July 2010

Mutations in FAM20C were recently identified as the cause of lethal osteosclerotic bone dysplasia, which highlighted the important role of this molecule in biomineralization. No systematic studies have been performed to evaluate the expression pattern of this relatively new molecule in the developmental processes of bone and tooth. In the present study, we analyzed in detail the expression profile of FAM20C during osteogenesis and odontogenesis using ISH and IHC approaches. The specimens analyzed were mouse tissues spanning embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) to postnatal 8 weeks. The earliest presence of FAM20C was observed at E14.5. During osteogenesis, FAM20C mRNA was detected in the chondrocytes and osteoblasts of the long bone, whereas its protein was observed in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of bone and in the cytoplasm of the chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. During odontogenesis, FAM20C mRNA was detected in the ameloblasts, odontoblasts, cementoblasts, and periodontal ligament fibroblasts, whereas its protein was observed in the matrices of dentin, enamel, and alveolar bone and in the cytoplasm of the aforementioned cells. The temporospatial expression profile revealed in this study indicates that FAM20C is an ECM protein that may play an important role in controlling the mineralization of bone and tooth.
Studies of insulin resistance in patients with clinical and subclinical hyperthyroidism
Authors: Maratou Eirini , Hadjidakis Dimitrios J , Peppa Melpomeni , Alevizaki Maria , Tsegka Katerina , Lambadiari Vaia , Mitrou Panayota , Boutati Eleni , Kollias Anastasios , Economopoulos Theofanis , Raptis Sotirios A , Dimitriadis George
Published: July 2010

Objective

Although clinical hyperthyroidism (HR) is associated with insulin resistance, the information on insulin action in subclinical hyperthyroidism (SHR) is limited.

Design and methods

To investigate this, we assessed the sensitivity of glucose metabolism to insulinin vivo(by an oral glucose tolerance test) andin vitro(by measuring insulin-stimulated rates of glucose transport in isolated monocytes) in 12 euthyroid subjects (EU), 16 patients with HR, and 10 patients with SHR.

Results

HR and SHR patients displayed higher postprandial glucose levels (area under the curve, AUC0–30032 190±1067 and 31 497±716 mg/dl min respectively) versus EU (27 119±1156 mg/dl min,P<0.05). HR but not SHR patients displayed higher postprandial insulin levels (AUC0–30011 020±985 and 9565±904 mU/l min respectively) compared with EU subjects (AUC0–3007588±743 mU/l min,P<0.05). Homeostasis model assessment index was increased in HR and SHR patients (2.81±0.3 and 2.43±0.38 respectively) compared with EU subjects (1.27±0.16,P<0.05), while Matsuda and Belfiore indices were decreased in HR (4.21±0.41 and 0.77±0.05 respectively,P<0.001) and SHR patients (4.47±0.33 and 0.85±0.05 respectively,P<0.05 versus EU (7.76±0.87 and 1 respectively). At 100 μU/ml insulin, i) GLUT3 levels on the monocyte plasma membrane were increased in HR (468.8±7 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI)) and SHR patients (522.2±25 MFI) compared with EU subjects (407±18 MFI,P<0.01 andP<0.05 respectively), ii) glucose transport rates in monocytes (increases from baseline) were decreased in HR patients (37.8±5%) versus EU subjects (61.26±10%,P<0.05).

Conclusions

Insulin-stimulated glucose transport in isolated monocytes of patients with HR was decreased compared with EU subjects. Insulin resistance was comparable in patients with both HR and SHR.
Thyroid Storm After Pediatric Levothyroxine Ingestion
Authors: Majlesi Nima , Greller Howard A. , McGuigan Michael A. , Caraccio Tom , Su Mark K. , Chan Gar M.
Published: July 2010

A 2-year-old girl was found with an empty bottle of levothyroxine and blue coloring around her mouth. Forty tablets of 150-μg levothyroxine tablets were missing. Her 6-hour postingestion total thyroxine (T4) level was 68.1 μg/dL (normal range: 5–12 μg/dL), and her total triiodothyronine (T3) level was 472 ng/dL (normal range: 40–130 ng/dL). Serum levels of thyrotropin, T3, and T4 were then checked on days 3, 5, 7, and 10. On postingestion day 5, the child presented for follow-up with hyperthermia, vomiting, irritability, and increased lethargy. She was referred to the emergency department, where a heart rate of 220 beats per minute, a blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg, and a temperature of 101°F were recorded. She also had multiple episodes of diarrhea. The patient was treated with oral propranolol (0.8 mg/kg) every 6 hours, intravenous normal saline, and ibuprofen; all her vital signs improved. Serial T3, T4, and thyrotropin serum levels were measured. Her total T3 levels were >800, 798, 445, 446, and 98 ng/dL on days 3, 5, 6, 9, and 13, respectively. Total T4 measurement was repeated on day 13, and the concentration was found to be 11.9 μg/dL. Her thyrotropin levels remained undetectable throughout the course of treatment. The patient was discharged from the hospital after a 4-day PICU stay, in good condition, on oral propranolol 0.8 mg/kg every 8 hours. Propranolol administration was discontinued 8 days after initiation with no further tachycardia, hypertension, or hyperthermia. The child tolerated the recommended regimen.
Feeding Symptoms, Dietary Patterns, and Growth in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Emond Alan , Emmett Pauline , Steer Colin , Golding Jean
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the feeding, diet and growth of young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

METHOD:

Data on feeding and food frequency were collected by questionnaires completed at 6, 15, 24, 38 and 54 months by participants in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. A food variety score was created, and the content of the diet was calculated at 38 m. The feeding and dietary patterns of 79 children with ASD were compared with 12 901 controls.

RESULTS:

The median ages of ASD children were 28 months at referral and 45 months at diagnosis. ASD infants showed late introduction of solids after 6 months (p = .004) and were described as “slow feeders” at 6 months (p = .04). From 15–54 months ASD children were consistently reported to be “difficult to feed” (p < .001) and “very choosy” (p < .001). From 15 months, the ASD group had a less varied diet than controls, were more likely to have different meals from their mother from 24 months, and by 54 months 8% of ASD children were taking a special diet for “allergy.”

ASD children consumed less vegetables, salad and fresh fruit, but also less sweets and fizzy drinks. At 38 months intakes of energy, total fat, carbohydrate and protein were similar, but the ASD group consumed less vitamins C (p = .02) and D (p = .003). There were no differences in weight, height or BMI at 18 months and 7 years, or in hemoglobin concentrations at 7 years.

CONCLUSIONS:

ASD children showed feeding symptoms from infancy and had a less varied diet from 15 months, but energy intake and growth were not impaired.
A Longitudinal Study of Exposure to Retail Cigarette Advertising and Smoking Initiation
Authors: Henriksen Lisa , Schleicher Nina C. , Feighery Ellen C. , Fortmann Stephen P.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES:

Accumulating evidence suggests that widespread advertising for cigarettes at the point of sale encourages adolescents to smoke; however, no longitudinal study of exposure to retail tobacco advertising and smoking behavior has been reported.

METHODS:

A school-based survey included 1681 adolescents (aged 11–14 years) who had never smoked. One measure of exposure assessed the frequency of visiting types of stores that contain the most cigarette advertising. A more detailed measure combined data about visiting stores near school with observations of cigarette advertisements and pack displays in those stores. Follow-up surveys 12 and 30 months after baseline (retention rate: 81%) documented the transition from never to ever smoking, even just a puff.

RESULTS:

After 12 months, 18% of adolescents initiated smoking, but the incidence was 29% among students who visited convenience, liquor, or small grocery stores at least twice per week and 9% among those who reported the lowest visit frequency (less than twice per month). Adjusting for multiple risk factors, the odds of initiation remained significantly higher (odds ratio: 1.64 [95% confidence interval: 1.06–2.55]) for adolescents who reported moderate visit frequency (0.5–1.9 visits per week), and the odds of initiation more than doubled for those who visited ≥2 times per week (odds ratio: 2.58 [95% confidence interval: 1.68–3.97]). Similar associations were observed for the more detailed exposure measure and persisted at 30 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Exposure to retail cigarette advertising is a risk factor for smoking initiation. Policies and parenting practices that limit adolescents' exposure to retail cigarette advertising could improve smoking prevention efforts.
Cancer Risk in Children and Young Adults Conceived by In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Källén Bengt , Finnström Orvar , Lindam Anna , Nilsson Emma , Nygren Karl-Gösta , Olausson Petra Otterblad
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES:

Studies conducted so far have found no statistically significant increased risk for cancer among children who are born after in vitro fertilization (IVF).

METHODS:

We followed 26 692 children who were born after IVF during the years 1982–2005 by using the Swedish Cancer Register and compared the number of children who had cancer and were born after IVF with children who were not conceived by IVF. Adjustment was made for year of birth.

RESULTS:

Maternal age, parity, smoking, subfertility, previous miscarriages, BMI, and multiple births did not significantly affect cancer risk in offspring. High birth weight, premature delivery, and the presence of respiratory diagnoses and low Apgar score were risk factors for cancer. We identified 53 cases of cancer in children who were born after IVF against 38 expected cases: 18 of them with hematologic cancer (15 of them acute lymphoblastic leukemia), 17 with eye or central nervous system tumors, and 12 with other solid cancers. There were 6 cases of Langerhans histiocytosis against 1.0 expected. The total cancer risk estimate was 1.42 (95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.87).

CONCLUSIONS:

We found a moderately increased risk for cancer in children who were conceived by IVF. Putative intermediary factors could be preterm birth and neonatal asphyxia.
Changes and Variability in High Levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Among Children
Authors: Freedman David S. , Wang Y. Claire , Dietz William H. , Xu Ji-Hua , Srinivasan Sathanur R. , Berenson Gerald S.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE:

A 2008 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended both population and individual approaches (including pharmacologic interventions) for adolescents who had low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels above various cutoff points (130, 160, and 190 mg/dL). However, the tracking and variability of these very high levels have not been investigated.

METHODS:

A total of 6827 subjects underwent multiple LDL cholesterol determinations in childhood and adulthood in the Bogalusa Heart Study. The total number of determinations was 26748, and the median interval between examinations was 3 years.

RESULTS:

Correlations between initial and subsequent LDL cholesterol levels ranged from r ∼ 0.8 for measurements made within the same year to r ∼ 0.5 for periods of ≥20 years. Most children who had very high LDL cholesterol levels, however, had substantially lower levels at the next examination. LDL cholesterol levels between 160 and 189 mg/dL (n = 201) decreased, on average, by 21 mg/dL at the next examination, whereas levels of ≥190 mg/dL (n = 44) decreased by 34 mg/dL. In contrast, the mean increase for LDL cholesterol levels of <70 mg/dL was 13 mg/dL. These changes were equal to those expected on the basis of regression to the mean.

CONCLUSIONS:

There can be large changes in extreme levels of LDL cholesterol because of regression to the mean, and practitioners should be aware that very high levels may decrease substantially in the absence of any intervention.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Resource Use in Neonates With Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: 1993–2006
Authors: Stroustrup Annemarie , Trasande Leonardo
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the trends in incidence of diagnosis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and associated health services use for the neonatal hospitalization of patients with BPD in an era of changing definitions and management.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

All neonatal hospitalization records available through the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, 1993–2006, were analyzed. Multivariable regression analyses were performed for incidence of BPD diagnosis and associated hospital length of stay and charges. Multiple models were constructed to assess the roles of changes in diagnosis of very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates and different modalities of respiratory support used for treatment.

RESULTS:

The absolute incidence of diagnosis of BPD fell 3.3% annually (P = .0009) between 1993 and 2006 coincident with a 3.5-fold increase in the use of noninvasive respiratory support in patients with BPD. When data were controlled for demographic factors, this significant decrease in incidence persisted at a rate of 4.3% annually (P = .0002). All models demonstrated a rise in hospital length of stay and financial charges for the neonatal hospitalization of patients with BPD. The incidence of BPD adjusted for frequency of prolonged mechanical ventilation also decreased but only by 2.8% annually (P = .0075).

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of diagnosis of BPD decreased significantly between 1993 and 2006. In well-controlled models, birth hospitalization charges for these patients rose during the same period. Less invasive ventilatory support may improve respiratory outcomes of VLBW neonates.
Development of Crop Resistance to Insects
Authors: Sprague G. F. , Dahms R. G.
Published: July 2010

The development of host resistance to insect pests offers promise of reducing yield losses as well as a material reduction in the use of insecticides. A review of progress and the current situation is presented for selected insect pests, Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor), European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis), boll weevil (Anthonomus grandis), corn earworm and cotton bollworm (Heliothis zea), pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum), spotted alfalfa aphid (Therioaphis maculata), potato leaf hopper (Empoasea fabae), and the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica). With the exception of the Hessian fly the only feasible control for this group of insects, prior to the development of resistant types, has been through use of chemicals. Marked progress has been achieved in developing commercially useful host‐resistance to this group of insects with the exception of the cotton bollworm and boll weevil. Even here types differing in various components of resistance have been identified but the combination of these characteristics into an acceptable commercial variety remains to be accomplished. Increased emphasis is being placed on host‐plant resistance. Success in such efforts requires the close cooperation of entomologists, geneticists, and breeders.
Degradation of Phenylcarbamates in Soil by Mixed Suspension of IPC‐Adapted Microorganisms
Authors: McClure George W.
Published: July 2010

A mixed suspension of microorganisms containing at least 7 tentatively identified genera was derived from a liquid mixture of soil and IPC. This suspension, when applied to nonsterile greenhouse soil flats, markedly reduced or eliminated the toxicity of the phenylcarbamates IPC, CIPC, and Swep to several test plant species. The suspension of microorganisms was effective in the soil for between 2 and 3 months. These findings have implications for the degradation of chemicals resistent to the native soil population.
Polygenic Resistance to Plant Disease and Its Use in Breeding Resistant Cultivars
Authors: Simons M. D.
Published: July 2010

Race nonspecific, generalized or horizontal resistance (HR) usually is inherited polygenically. Polygenic resistance (PR) acts retarding the rate of development of the epidemic rather than in delaying its onset. Years of experience with economically important plant diseases has shown that, although small amounts of disease can be expected to occur, PR is adequate to protect crops from serious losses under normal field conditions. In most cases studied, PR has not been rendered useless due to changes in the pathogen, as has been characteristic of oligogenic resistance (OR); thus, it probably can be expected to give lasting protection. Polygenic resistance may operate through many mechanisms, and may be governed by genes that are not specifically concerned with disease, but which regulate basic processes of the plant. Other disease control measures, such as use of fungicides and OR, often can be combined advantageously with PR. The heritability of various manifestations of PR, and of similarly inherited disease tolerance, to several important diseases is sufficiently high to make selection for it practical. Recognizing and recovering PR from hybrid populations may require special methods, and may be relatively difficult and expensive, but should be rewarding.
The Cereal Leaf Beetle Today (Oulema melanopus L.)
Authors: Ruppel Robert F.
Published: July 2010

The history, biology, hosts, present control, and current research on the cereal leaf beetle (Oulema melanopus L.) are presented as parts of a continuing project on the control of this pest. The beetle is a serious pest of spring grains, and a lesser pest of fall grains. It is spreading and increasing rapidly in the northeastern USA and southeastern Canada. Insecticides are the only control measure now recommended. Lines of wheats (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell.) resistant to the pest have been found. Parasites of the beetle have been introduced from Europe and show promise for its control. The biology of the pest is under intensive study for leads toward more effective means for its control. The population dynamics of the beetle are under study and the results of this study will be used to model control strategies for the pest. The breadth and integration of special fields in the cereal leaf beetle project is suggested as a model for the development of rational controls for other insects.
An Interpretation of Reservoir Sedimentation II. Clay Mineralogy
Authors: Lund L. J. , Kohnke Helmut , Paulet Manuel
Published: July 2010

The more that is known of the influence of the nature of the contributing watershed upon sedimentation, the more will it be possible to protect reservoirs from early loss of capacity. The particular purpose of this study was to learn to what extent the mineralogical composition of the watershed soils determines the rate of sedimentation and the mineralogy of the sediments in reservoirs. Even though the soils of the 13 watersheds in Indiana and Illinois were similar in clay composition, significant relationships were found.

There were only small differences between the composition of the soil clay of the watershed and that of the resulting sediment clay. The amounts of vermiculite, mica, kaolinite, and amorphous alumina in the sediment clays could be accounted for by the amounts in the soil clays. In most cases montmorillonite occurred in larger proportions in the sediment clays, while in case of quartz this relationship was reversed. The estimation of sedimentation rates from geomorphological data, including soil texture, (Paulet, Kohnke, & Lund, 1972) could not be improved by adding mineralogical parameters. This does not necessarily mean that clay composition had no effect upon sedimentation rates, but rather that the soil clays were too similar to demonstrate a definite trend.
Suitability of Food Processing Waste Water for Irrigation
Authors: Pearson George A.
Published: July 2010

The waste water from food processing contains dissolved salts and organic matter. The amount of each depends upon the product being processed and the procedure being used. The suitability for irrigation of food processing waste water from 20 plants processing nine food products was assessed from the standpoint of electrical conductivity (EC), chloride and sodium concentrations, sodium‐adsorption‐ratio (SAR), and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Waste water from plants processing green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), squash (Cucurbita pepo var. melopepo Alef.), tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.), corn (Zea mays L.), steam peeled potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) and sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas Lam.), and poultry is suitable for irrigation under most conditions. Waste water from some pea (Pisum sativum L.) and lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus L.) processing plants may be suitable for irrigation, but is of questionable suitability from others. Waste water from lye‐peel potato processing is not suitable for irrigation.
Nutrient Content of Barnlot Runoff Water
Authors: Edwards W. M. , Simpson E. C. , Frere M. H.
Published: July 2010

From March 1968 through December 1970, runoff from a 60‐head beef cattle barnlot was measured and concentrations of nitrate, total nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in solution were determined. Nitrate‐nitrogen concentration was < 2 mg/liter for 8 months of the year, with the highest monthly concentration 6 mg/liter. Most of the soluble N was in a reduced form with the maximum monthly concentration < 70 mg/liter. Phosphorus concentration was ≤ 5 mg/liter during the spring and early summer, with a peak near 14 mg/liter in September. Monthly potassium concentration was always > 100 mg/liter with peak values > 300 mg/liter.

Nitrate concentration was highest during warm months when environmental conditions favored oxidation. Concentration of all other nutrient forms decreased during the summer when the barnlot was not being used by cattle.
Paper Mill Sludge Disposal on Soils: Effects on the Yield and Mineral Nutrition of Oats (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Dolar S. G. , Boyle J. R. , Keeney D. R.
Published: July 2010

A greenhouse investigation to evaluate the effects on plant growth of incorporation of high rates (2.5% or 10% by weight of soil) of paper mill sludge material from several primary and secondary treatment processes was conducted. Sludges from secondary biological treatment processes contained sufficient N in relation to organic C (range of C/N values was 12:1–50:1) so that N was not limiting to plant growth. However, sludges from primary treatment processes contained high organic C/N ratios (ca. 150:1) and would require considerable supplementary N fertilizer if cereal crops or grasses were to be planted soon after sludge application. At the high sludge rate, plant growth was diminished even though sufficient fertilizer N, P and K had been applied.
Potential of an Eroding Urban Soil for the Phosphorus Enrichment of Streams: I. Evaluation of Methods
Authors: Ryden J. C. , Syers J. K. , Harris R. F.
Published: July 2010

Eroding noncalcareous and calcareous soil horizons sampled on an urban development site sorbed a varying proportion of added inorganic phosphate (P). At an added P level of 600 µg P/liter (30 µg P/g soil in 50 ml of 0.1M NaCI), the A1 horizon showed a net release of P whereas the B1 and 3C1 horizons sorbed 96 and 53% of the added P, respectively. The appreciable release of P from the A1 horizon is attributed to the presence of a small amount of a moderately soluble P fertilizer‐soil reaction product. In simulated stream systems employing a solution/soil ratio of 1000:1, initial added P concentrations of 0 and 50 µg P/liter, and adequate aeration, approximately 50% of the final P concentration was attained in less than 3 hours. Release of P (50 µg P/liter) from the A1 horizon was independent of the initial P concentration. The B1 horizon released 10 µg P/liter, twice that released by the 3C1 horizon, whereas these two horizons sorbed approximately equal amounts of added P. In a system containing a 1:1 mixture of the A1 and B1 horizons, the amount of P released by the A1 in the presence or absence of added P was greater than that capable of being sorbed by the B1 horizon. Initial P concentrations were shown to be more important than the solution/soil ratio in determining the extent of uptake and release of P by the soil horizons. The use of a 400:1 solution/soil ratio and low levels of added P (0 to 200 µg P/liter) provides a useful basis for developing a routine test for evaluating the potential of eroding soils for the P enrichment of streams.
Pesticide‐Sediment‐Water Interactions
Authors: Pionke H. B. , Chesters G.
Published: July 2010

Pesticide‐sediment‐water interactions occurring within a watershed and the associated aquatic system are reviewed regarding their impact on the distribution and persistence of pesticides in recipient lakes. Pesticidal persistence on the watershed is discussed initially because the aquatic residue hazard depends largely on the persistence of soil‐applied pesticides. Mechanisms of transport from field to aquatic system are reviewed for those compounds not degraded rapidly to nontoxic derivatives. Pesticide transport through the atmosphere, ground water, and surface runoff is traced with particular emphasis on application‐associated losses and transport effect on initial pesticide distribution and concentration in the aquatic system. Field and plot studies evaluating pesticide losses in runoff are summarized.

Within the aquatic system, limnological, sediment and water characteristics potentially alter the distribution of adsorbed pesticide between water and associated sediment within the lake. Specificially, the effects of pH, lake stratification, characteristics and content of sediment organic matter and clay, and salinity are evaluated. This review concludes with a discussion of literature on pesticide persistence determined in simulated or natural aquatic systems and the interactions between aquatic vegetation, sediment, and water which affect pesticide distribution.
The Use of Mirex in Control of the Imported Fire Ant
Authors: Alley Earl G.
Published: July 2010

The chemical, physical, and toxicological properties of the chlorocarbon pesticide mirex (C10Cl12), the imported fire ant (Solenopsis richteri Forel and Solenopsis Invicta Buren) which it controls, and the programs designed to effect this control are described. The systematic name of mirex is dodecachloropentacyclo [5.3.02.6.03.9.04.8] decane. The nomenclature utilized in Chemical Abstracts is dodecachloropentacyclo‐1,3,4‐metheno‐2H‐cyclobuta (cd)pentalene.

Several arguments emerge both for and against continued use of mirex in the control of the imported fire ant. Those in favor include (i) the fire ant is a major nuisance to those employed in agriculture in infested areas; (ii) a greater risk of allergic response because of increased sensitivity of people in infested areas; (iii) the fire ant does prey on other insects; (iv) reports of toxicity to other organisms are largely laboratory studies; (v) the alternative chemicals, heptachlor and dieldrin, would also present serious problems to the environment; and (vi) the probable wide use of Dechlorane (mirex) as a fire retardant in polymers could easily introduce far more of the chemical into the enviornment than that from pesticide applications.

Arguments against continued use of mirex include (i) reports of tumor induction and toxicity in nontarget organisms such as estuarine organisms; (ii) it is not certain that the imported fire ant is a significant economic pest; (e.g., attacks on farm animals are extremely rare); and (iii) long‐term persistence of mirex in the environment.

The employment of mirex on large areas of territory is a major point of discussion. The alternatives would be intensive hand treatment of mounds, or complete prohibition of the use of mirex for this purpose. Extensive research and monitoring programs are now being conducted in various southeastern USA states with support of the USDA. The Fire Ant Control Program for 1971 included treatment of 1.8 million hectares of open areas but did not include land near lakes and streams. One‐seventh of this area was treated with bait that delivered only one‐fourth as much toxicant as the previous application. These programs pinpoint the areas of infestation and confine treatment to infested areas where people earn their livelihood.

At present, mirex is the best alternative for control of the imported fire ant and aerial application of bait is the only realistic method for effective control. Use should be limited to seriously infested areas and research into possible side effects should be continued and expanded.
Microbiological Effects and Persistence of Some Pesticide Combinations in Soil
Authors: Hubbell D. H. , Rothwell D. F. , Wheeler W. B. , Tappan W. B. , Rhoads F. M.
Published: July 2010

Zineb, parathion, DDT, and Furadan were applied alone and in combination to field plots, with times and rates of application approximating current agronomic practice for the growth of shade‐leaf tobacco in the area of Quincy, Florida. Persistence of the pesticides in the soil and possible effects of the pesticides on relative microbial numbers and nitrification were monitored at 2‐week intervals over a period of 16 weeks. Relative numbers of bacteria and actinomycetes in all treatments failed to differ significantly from the untreated control. Fungi increased significantly (5% level) in the parathion + DDT + zineb treatment. There were no other significant differences in microbial numbers. Nitrification, as indicated by levels of NO3‐N, showed no significant difference due to treatments when compared to the control at the 5% level. Parathion applied as a single dose was present in the soil in significantly higher amounts initially when compared with treatments where parathion was applied on a weekly basis. This difference disappeared after 6 weeks. There were no other significant differences in pesticide persistence in the soil.