bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Mechanisms for the Progression of CKD with ACE Gene Polymorphisms
Authors: Nakayama Yushi , Nonoguchi Hiroshi , Kohda Yukimasa , Inoue Hideki , Memetimin Hasiyet , Izumi Yuichiro , Tomita Kimio
Published: March 2009

Background/Aims: The blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is the major target of efforts to prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Dual blockade with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and angiotensin II receptor blocker has been reported to show additive renoprotection. However, three types of insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism have been reported, and it is unclear whether the dual blockade is effective for all the ACE genotypes. Methods: We treated 93 CKD patients with or without dual blockade and analyzed the effects on blood pressure (BP), proteinuria, progression of CKD and the relationship to I/D ACE polymorphisms. Results: After long-term medication (average 33 ± 2 months), BP decreased in all the genotype groups. However, urinary protein excretion decreased only in the II and DI groups (II: –27.1%, DI: –20.5%, DD: +0.8%). In the II and DI groups, amelioration of the progression of renal failure was correlated with reductions in BP and urinary protein excretion. However, the progression rate of renal failure was not correlated with proteinuria in the DD group. Conclusion: Proteinuria and BP are key factors for the progression of CKD in II/DI patients, while controlling the BP rather than reducing the proteinuria appears to be crucial in DD patients.
In Utero Treatment of Severe Fetal Anaemia due to Parvovirus B19 in One Fetus in a Twin Pregnancy – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Bekhit M.T. , Greenwood P.A. , Warren R. , Aarons E. , Jauniaux E.
Published: March 2009

Background: Parvovirus B19 (PVB19) is a well-established cause of nonimmune hydrops fetalis and fetal anaemia in pregnancy. However, discordant viral infection of only 1 fetus in a twin pregnancy is a rare occurrence. Case Report: A 40-year-old female with dichorionic, diamniotic twin pregnancy presented at 22 weeks with fetal hydrops and severe anaemia in 1 twin. Maternal PVB19 infection was confirmed, and the affected fetus was treated with a single intrauterine transfusion. The only subsequent complication developed was that the affected fetus was growing on the 5th centile. The affected twin continued to grow, and 2 live twins were delivered by caesarean section at 36 weeks. By 18 months of age, the affected twin had normal development. Conclusion: PVB19 may selectively affect 1 fetus in a dichorionic, diamniotic twin pregnancy and may be treated efficiently with intrauterine transfusion. Discordant viral infection in this case suggests that the viral load may be limited to 1 placenta and/or that different individual immunological fetal response starts very early in utero.
Prenatal Findings in a Case of Massive Fetomaternal Hemorrhage Associated with Intraplacental Choriocarcinoma
Authors: Aso Kaai , Tsukimori Kiyomi , Yumoto Yasuo , Hojo Satoshi , Fukushima Kotaro , Koga Takaomi , Sueishi Katsuo , Takahata Yasushi , Hara Toshiro , Wake Norio
Published: March 2009

We describe biochemical assessment of maternal circulation in a case of massive fetomaternal hemorrhage at term associated with intraplacental choriocarcinoma. Markedly elevated maternal serum hCG level at 37 weeks of gestation suggested choriocarcinoma as a cause of fetomaternal hemorrhage in this case. Measurement of maternal hCG may be a useful parameter when intraplacental choriocarcinoma is in the differential diagnosis. In addition, the placenta should be examined in all cases of fetomaternal hemorrhage.
Cerebrovascular Blood Flow Dynamic Changes in Fetuses with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Guorong Lv , Shaohui Li , Peng Jin , Huitong Lin , Boyi Li , Wanhong Xu , Liya Li
Published: March 2009

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether the type of congenital heart disease (CHD) or heart function influence fetal cerebrovascular blood flow dynamics. Methods: Doppler flow velocimetry was performed in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA), and the ratio of the UA pulsatility index (PI) to the MCA PI (U/C PI) was determined in 45 fetuses with CHD at 20–40 weeks’ gestational age. The control group consisted of 275 healthy fetuses matched for gestational age. Individual PI measurements were converted into Z-scores for statistical analysis. Results: Fetuses with CHD (n = 45) had an increased UA PI (p = 0.001) and U/C PI (p < 0.001) when compared to controls. There was no significant difference in the MCA PI between fetuses with CHD (n = 45) and controls (n = 275), while fetuses with CHD complicated by congestive heart failure (CHF) (n = 10) had a decreased MCA PI (p < 0.001) compared to controls. Conclusions: The lower PIs observed in the MCA of fetuses with CHD complicated by CHF represents a marker of cerebral vasodilation that is due to cerebral hypoxemia and limiting perfusion. The heart function and type of CHD have an impact on fetal cerebrovascular blood flow distribution and this may contribute to the cause of abnormal neurologic development in these fetuses.
Metabolic Profiles in Urine Reflect Nephrotoxicity of Sirolimus and Cyclosporine following Rat Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Schmitz Volker , Klawitter Jost , Bendrick-Peart Jamie , Schoening Wenzel , Puhl Gero , Haschke Manuel , Klawitter Jelena , Consoer Jeff , Rivard Christopher J. , Chan Laurence , Tran Zung V. , Leibfritz Dieter , Christians Uwe
Published: March 2009

Background: Cyclosporine and/or sirolimus impair recovery of renal transplants. This study examines the changes in urine metabolite profiles as surrogate markers of renal cell metabolism and function after cyclosporine and/or sirolimus treatment employing a rat kidney transplantation model. Methods: Using inbred Lewis rats, kidneys were transplanted into bilaterally nephrectomized recipients followed by treatment with either CsA (cyclosporine) 10, Rapa (sirolimus) 1, CsA10/Rapa1 or CsA25/Rapa1 mg/kg/day for 7 days. On day 7, urine was analyzed by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Blood and kidney tissue drug concentrations, tissue high-energy compounds (including ATP, ADP) and oxidative stress markers (15-F2t-isoprostanes) in urine were measured by HPLC mass spectrometry. Results: Changes in urine metabolites followed the order Rapa1 < CsA10 < CsA10/Rapa1 < CsA25/Rapa1. Compared with controls, CsA25/Rapa1 showed the greatest changes (creatinine –36%, succinate –57%, citrate –89%, α-ketoglutarate –75%, creatine +498%, trimethylamine +210% and taurine +370%). 15-F2t-isoprostane concentrations in urine increased in the combined immunosuppressant-treated animals ([CsA25/Rapa1]: 795 ± 222, [CsA10/Rapa1]: 475 ± 233 pg/mg/creatinine) as compared with controls (165 ± 78 pg/mg creatinine). Rapa concentration in blood and tissues increased in the combined treatment (blood: 31 ± 8 ng/ml, tissue: 1.3 ± 0.4 ng/mg) as compared with monotherapy (blood: 14 ± 8 ng/ml, tissue: 0.35 ± 0.15 ng/mg). Drug blood concentrations correlated with isoprostane urine concentrations, which correlated negatively with citrate, α-ketoglutarate and creatinine concentrations in urine. Only CsA25/Rapa1 significantly reduced high-energy metabolite concentrations in transplant kidney tissue (ATP –55%, ADP –24%). Conclusion: Immunosuppressant drugs induce changes in urine metabolite patterns, suggesting that immunosuppressant-induced oxidative stress is an early event in the development of nephrotoxicity. Urine 15-F2t-isoprostane concentrations and metabolite profiles may be sensitive markers of immunosuppressant-induced nephrotoxicity.
Angiotensin II Regulation of Renal Dopamine Uptake and Na+,K+-ATPase Activity
Authors: Choi Marcelo R. , Medici Cecilia , Gironacci Mariela M. , Correa Alicia H. , Fernández Belisario E.
Published: March 2009

Background/Aims: Angiotensin II (ANG II) decreases dopamine (DA) uptake in renal cortex activating AT1 receptors. We investigated the signaling pathways that mediate this action and the incidence of DA-ANG II interaction on renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity. Methods: ANG II effects on [3H]-DA uptake and Na+,K+-ATPase were measured in samples from the outer renal cortex of Sprague-Dawley rats. Results: Inhibition of the phospholipase C (PLC) pathway blunted ANG II inhibitory effects on [3H]-DA uptake, since U-73122, 2-APB, TMB-8, chelerythrine and KN-93 (PLC, IP3-dependent Ca2+ release channels, IP3 receptors, protein kinase C and CaM kinase II inhibitors, respectively) each one blocked ANG II effects. Inhibition of adenylate cyclase pathway did not modify ANG II inhibitory effects on DA uptake. ANG II effects on [3H]-DA uptake were able to modify Na+,K+-ATPase activity in carbidopa-treated rats. Exogenous DA decreased while ANG II increased the enzyme activity. Neither the addition of DA together with ANG II, nor the extraneuronal DA uptake blocker hydrocortisone altered ANG II stimulatory effects on Na+,K+-ATPase activity, but hydrocortisone blocked the inhibitory effects of exogenous DA. Conclusion: Stimulation of renal AT1 receptors by ANG II signals through the PLC pathway to inhibit extraneuronal DA uptake. DA and ANG II act through a common pathway involving reversible renal tubular Na+,K+-ATPase deactivation and activation, respectively. In addition, ANG II by itself is able to stimulate renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity.
The Neuropsychological Performance of Nondemented Puerto Rican Nonagenarians
Authors: Carrión-Baralt José R. , Meléndez-Cabrero Josefina , Schnaider Beeri Michal , Sano Mary , Silverman Jeremy M.
Published: March 2009

Background/Aims: While the oldest old are the fastest growing segment of the US population, normative neuropsychological data for nondemented oldest old Spanish speakers are nonexistent. This study sought to evaluate the neuropsychological performance of nondemented nonagenarians residing in Puerto Rico and to compare their results with those of a similar English-speaking sample from New York. Methods: We studied 81 subjects who had a complete CERAD neuropsychological assessment in Spanish. We used multiple regression analysis to predict performance on the CERAD battery and ANCOVA to compare the Puerto Rico and New York samples. Results: In 10 out of the 13 neuropsychological tests administered, education was a significant predictor of performance. There were significant differences between the Puerto Rico and New York groups only in the Trail Making Tests. Conclusions: In this Puerto Rican sample, education was the strongest predictor of neuropsychological performance, which is consistent with previous studies. When education level is properly accounted for, the performance of Puerto Rican nonagenarians in the CERAD battery does not differ from the performance of US English-speaking nonagenarians.
Comparison of Loop Electrosurgical Conization with One or Two Passes in High-Grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasias
Authors: Rivoire Waldemar Augusto , Monego Heleusa Ione , dos Reis Ricardo , Binda Márcia Appel , Magno Valentino , Tavares Eduardo Belmonte , Hammes Luciano Serpa , Capp Edison , Edelweiss Maria Isabel
Published: March 2009

The use of loop electrosurgical conization (LEC) for the treatment of large high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CINs) is often associated with a difficult procedure that results in accidental sample fragmentation, thermal damage and sometimes the presence of positive margins. This study aims to compare LEC that removes the cervical cone in two blocks (anterior and posterior cervical lips – LEC2) with LEC performed with one pass of the loop (LEC1). In a randomized, controlled trial, patients that needed conization due to high-grade CIN were assigned to one of the techniques. There were no differences in terms of age, cone histopathological diagnosis, blood loss, vaginal injuries, stenosis of the cervical os and specimen artifacts. LEC2 required less hemostatic sutures. LEC2 showed no specimen fragmentation, while LEC1 did (0 vs. 5.9%; p = 0.10). As expected, LEC2 samples were heavier (p = 0.01), included a larger ectocervical area (p = 0.001) and, therefore, had a greater volume (p < 0.001) compared to LEC1 samples. The height of the LEC2 specimens was smaller than that of LEC1 specimens (p < 0.001). LEC2 yielded fewer cases of positive margins (12.7%) than LEC1 (33.3%; p = 0.021). We conclude that the LEC2 technique is an effective treatment choice: it is safe for the patient, with better outcomes regarding sample quality than LEC1. Further studies are encouraged regarding this procedure.
Hepatic Epithelial Hemangioendothelioma in Pregnancy
Authors: Lutgendorf Monica A. , Magann Everett F. , Yousef Mashour , Hill James B. , Foster David T.
Published: March 2009

Background: Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare vascular neoplasm that affects various tissues including liver, lung, gastrointestinal tract, head and neck, bone, heart and the central nervous system. Case Report: A case of EHE is presented with lung and liver involvement during pregnancy. The patient had an uncomplicated antenatal course and delivery. Because of her asymptomatic presentation and the lack of safe and effective treatment during pregnancy, the decision was made to continue expectant management during her pregnancy. To our knowledge, this is the only published case report on this tumor with lung and liver involvement during pregnancy. Conclusion: Expectant management of hepatic EHE is possible during pregnancy and can result in good maternal and fetal outcomes.
Normal Values of 24-Hour Combined Esophageal Multichannel Intraluminal Impedance and pH Monitoring in the Chinese Population
Authors: Xiao Ying L. , Lin Jin K. , Cheung Ting K. , Wong Nina Y.H. , Yang Li , Hung Ivan F.N. , Wong Benjamin C.Y. , Chen Min H.
Published: March 2009

Background: There is a lack of data on combined esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH (MII-pH) monitoring in the Chinese population. Goals: To define the normal range and compare the parameters to those of the Western population. Study: Healthy volunteers were recruited and underwent 24-hour ambulatory combined MII-pH monitoring. Gastroesophageal reflux episodes were detected and characterized by pH (acidic, weakly acidic and weakly alkaline reflux) and composition (liquid, mixed and gas reflux). Results: Seventy healthy volunteers (male:female 33:37) were recruited. The median and 95th percentile number of the total reflux episodes over 24 h in the Chinese population was 40 and 75, respectively, whereas the corresponding numbers of acidic, weakly acidic and weakly alkaline reflux episodes were 22 and 54, 16 and 40, and 0 and 4, respectively. Among all reflux episodes 53.3% were acidic, 44.7% were weakly acidic, and 2% weakly alkaline. More than half (52.4%) of the reflux episodes were mixed, 37.2% were liquid, and 10.4% were gas. A total of 26.6% of reflux episodes reached 15 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter. Male gender was associated with an increased number of acid, liquid, mixed and proximal reflux episodes (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study provides normal values for the Chinese population. Differences between genders in impedance parameters required caution during data interpretation. The number of reflux episodes in the Chinese population was similar to that in the Western population.
Effect of Supplemental Oxygen versus Dobutamine Administration on Liver Oxygen Tension in dPP-Guided Normovolemic Pigs
Authors: Pestel G. , Fukui K. , Hager H. , Kurz A. , Hiltebrand L.
Published: March 2009

Background: Difference in pulse pressure (dPP) confirms adequate intravascular filling as a prerequisite for tissue perfusion. We hypothesized that both oxygen and dobutamine increase liver tissue oxygen tension (ptO2). Methods: Eight anesthetized pigs received dPP-guided fluid management. Hepatic pO2 was measured with Clark-type electrodes placed subcapsularly, and on the liver surface. Pigs received: (1) supplemental oxygen (FiO2 1.0); (2) dobutamine 2.5 μg/kg/min, and (3) dobutamine 5 μg/kg/min. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA followed by a Tukey post-test for multiple comparisons. ptO2 measured subcapsularly and at the liver surface were compared using the Bland-Altman plot. Results: Variation in FiO2 changed local hepatic tissue ptO2 [subcapsular measurement: 39 ± 12 (FiO2 0.3), 89 ± 35 mm Hg (FiO2 1.0, p = 0.01 vs. FiO2 0.3), 44 ± 10 mm Hg (FiO2 0.3, p = 0.05 vs. FiO2 1.0); surface measurement: 52 ± 35 (FiO2 0.3), 112 ± 24 mm Hg (FiO2 1.0, p = 0.001 vs. FiO2 0.3), 54 ± 24 mm Hg (FiO2 0.3, p = 0.001 vs. FiO2 1.0)]. Surface measurements were widely scattered compared to subcapsular measurements (bias: –15 mm Hg, precision: 76.3 mm Hg). Dobutamine did not affect hepatic oxygenation. Conclusion: Supplemental oxygen increased hepatic tissue pO2 while dobutamine did not. Although less invasive, the use of surface measurements is discouraged.
Lymphoproliferative Disorders after Immunosuppressive Therapy for Aplastic Anemia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Suzuki Yuhko , Niitsu Nozomi , Hayama Miyuki , Katayama Takuji , Ishii Ryuji , Osaka Manabu , Miyazaki Koji , Danbara Mikio , Horie Ryouichi , Yoshida Tsutomu , Nakamura Naoya , Higashihara Masaaki
Published: March 2009

A 61-year-old Japanese man was referred to our hospital in 2002 due to severe pancytopenia. Bone marrow and peripheral blood findings indicated he had severe aplastic anemia (AA). A whole-body CT scan and Ga scintigraphy revealed no abnormal findings. Antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine A (CyA) were administered and he got transfusion independently. In September 2004, he complained of abdominal fullness and a skin eruption in the lower abdomen. An abdominal CT revealed a spleen mass and lymphoadenopathy of the pancreas head. Splenectomy was done, and he was diagnosed with a diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the spleen and skin. His karyotype was associated with t(14; 18). CyA was stopped, all lesions disappeared, and then his AA relapsed. In January 2007, antithymocyte globulin/CyA was readministered. In May 2007, he complained of acute swelling in his right thigh. A biopsy from the tumor revealed DLBCL. CyA was stopped again, yet the lymphoma did not regress. He was given R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin hydrochloride, vincristine, prednisolone), followed by 5 cycles of R-VP (rituximab, vincristine, prednisolone) and radiation therapy, resulting in a partial remission. We report DLBCL after immunosuppressive therapy for AA. Although this is a rare complication, it should be considered before beginning immunosuppressive therapy.
Dietary and Pharmacological Control of Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism in Predialysis Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Ketteler Markus , Biggar Patrick H.
Published: March 2009

Data on calcium and phosphate metabolism in the predialysis stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are scarce when compared with the available information on patients on dialysis. Visible derangements of calcium and phosphate levels start to become apparent when GFR falls below 40 ml/min. In some but not all patients, hyperphosphatemia may be a mortality risk predictor in CKD stages 4–5. There are only few treatment studies targeting hyperphosphatemia in these CKD stages. However, the RIND study, evaluating progression of coronary artery calcification in incident hemodialysis patients, demonstrated that vascular calcification processes manifest in predialysis stages in the majority of patients, which may well be linked to deranged calcium and phosphate homeostasis. Novel insights into the pathophysiology of calcium and phosphate handling, especially the discovery of the phosphatonin FGF23, suggest that a more complex assessment of phosphate balance is warranted. This assessment should include measurements of fractional phosphate excretion and phosphatonin levels to objectively judge and effectively correct phosphate overload.
Impact of Disturbances of Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism on Vascular Calcification and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Nikolov Igor G. , Mozar Anaïs , Drüeke Tilman B. , Massy Ziad A.
Published: March 2009

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is frequently complicated by arterial calcification. The latter is part of the associated mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia have long been known to play a major role in the occurrence of vascular and other soft tissue calcification in patients with CKD, together with endocrine disturbances including vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, fibroblast growth factor-23, and klotho. In addition, many other systemic and local promoters, including inflammation and uremic toxins, contribute to the occurrence of vascular calcification, despite a powerful defense system made up of systemic and local inhibitors, as demonstrated in elegant experimental studies done in vitro and in vivo. Most importantly, several reports have shown that both hyperphosphatemia and hypophosphatemia, and to a lesser degree hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia, are associated with an increased relative risk of mortality in patients with CKD. However, all these reports were observational in nature and must therefore be considered as hypothesis generating. It remains to be demonstrated in prospective randomized trials whether normalization of serum phosphorus and/or calcium leads to better patient outcome. In order to improve outcome in patients with CKD-MBD, early medical intervention is of utmost importance.
Dietary and Pharmacological Control of Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Bover J. , Andrés E. , Lloret M.J. , Aguilar A. , Ballarín J.
Published: March 2009

Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder is a new term defining a complex syndrome which underlines the need of a systemic approach to disturbances of calcium and phosphate metabolism in patients with renal failure. In recent years, the availability of new phosphorus binders and the appearance of new selective vitamin D receptor activators and calcimimetics have increased our current armamentarium and have changed previous paradigms. All these drugs can be used in combination, acting in distinct yet complementary pathways, with a resultant improvement in their individual clinical profile and reduction in secondary effects, while enhancing the achievement of clinical guideline targets. On the other hand, we should be aware that treatment costs are increasing and most of our knowledge is opinion-based. In this article, we shall consider rational recommendations on the control of calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone while awaiting new evidence. We shall also briefly review some important related issues such as vascular calcification, adynamic bone disease, osteoporosis and the need of parathyroidectomy. Future guidelines may modify current recommendations, but we believe that the lack of an absolute evidence is not equivalent to the lack of awareness of the important problem which chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder represents.
Diffuse Bleeding from the Bronchial Mucosa on Flexible Bronchoscopy in Lung Transplanted Patients: ‘The Hemorrhagic Bronchial Mucosa Syndrome’
Authors: Milman Nils
Published: March 2009

Background: Flexible bronchoscopy (FFB) with bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial lung biopsy is a frequently performed procedure after lung transplantation (LTx). During 2002–2006, we performed 1,800 FFBs on LTx patients at our center. Objectives: To describe the occurrence of bronchial mucosal bleeding during FFB in 5 patients. Methods: FFB was performed under sedation with propofol and after intubation with a laryngeal mask. All 5 patients had normal chest X-rays and no clinical signs of lower respiratory tract infection. They were normotensive, had normal lung function, normal platelet counts and prothrombin times and no clinical evidence of other coagulopathies. Immunosuppression consisted of cyclosporin A, azathioprine and prednisolone. Results: In these 5 patients, we observed diffuse bleeding from the bronchial mucosa in both the transplanted and native lung. Bleeding was preceded by coughing and the development of diffuse mucosal hyperemia followed by mucosal petechiae, which subsequently coalesced into mucosal hemorrhage and overt intrabronchial bleeding. In 1 case, the bleeding caused impairment of lung function and hypoxemia. Conclusion: Bronchial mucosal bleeding is probably caused by increased intrathoracic pressure induced by coughing in a closed airway system, which in turn induces a high pressure in the intrathoracic vessels that is transferred to the bronchial vascular system. Vulnerability of the mucosal capillaries due to immunosuppression probably also contributes to what we have termed ‘the hemorrhagic bronchial mucosa syndrome’. The hemorrhagic bronchial mucosa syndrome with intrabronchial bleeding is a rare complication of bronchoscopy, predominantly occurring in LTx patients. From a prophylactic point of view, it seems essential to avoid coughing during bronchoscopy in intubated patients.
Pauses and Intonational Phrasing: ERP Studies in 5-month-old German Infants and Adults
Authors: Männel Claudia , Friederici Angela D.
Published: March 2009

In language learning, infants are faced with the challenge of decomposing continuous speech into relevant units, such as syntactic clauses and words. Within the framework of prosodic bootstrapping, behavioral studies suggest infants approach this segmentation problem by relying on prosodic information, especially on acoustically marked intonational phrase boundaries (IPBs). In the current ERP study, we investigate processing of IPBs in 5-month-old infants by varying the acoustic cues signaling the IPB. In an experiment in which pitch variation, vowel lengthening, and pause cues are present (Experiment 1), 5-month-old German infants show an ERP obligatory response. This obligatory response signals lower level perceptual processing of acoustic cues that, however, disappear when no pause cue is present (Experiment 2). This suggests that infants are sensitive to sentence internal pause, a cue that is relevant for the processing of IPBs. Given that German adults show both the obligatory components and the closure positive shift, a particular ERP component known to reflect the perception of IPBs, independent of the presence of a pause cue, the results of the current ERP study indicate clear developmental differences in intonational phrase processing. The comparison of our neurophysiological data from German-learning infants with behavioral data from English-learning infants furthermore suggests cross-linguistic differences in intonational phrase processing during infancy. These findings are discussed in the light of differences between the German and the English intonation systems.
A novel adaptive control algorithm based on non-linear Laguerre—Volterra observer
Authors: Zhang Hai-Tao , Tischenko Larissa , Yu Pin-Ze
Published: March 2009

By expanding each kernel using an orthonormal Laguerre series, a Volterra functional series is used to represent the input—output relation of a non-linear dynamic system. When Volterra series and Laguerre series truncations are allowed, an appropriate choice of the Laguerre filter pole permits a description of the process dynamics with a small number of parameters. Feeding back the error of the outputs of the plant and the model, we design a novel non-linear state observer, based on which a stable output feedback control law is derived for both regulator and tracking problems. To support this algorithm, we present the theoretical analyses of its nominal stability, which allows us to obtain the state feedback gain and the observer gain solely by solving two linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). In addition, another theorem is also given to show its capability of minimizing the steady-state tracking errors. To handle more complex dynamics, we improve the standard recursive least square estimation (RLSE) identification method to a normalized one with guaranteed convergence. Finally, control simulations on a benchmark problem — a continuous stirring tank reactor (CSTR) process — and experiments on a chemical reactor temperature control system are performed. This method, especially its essential idea of a Volterra non-linear observer, has shown great potential for the control of a large class of non-linear dynamic systems.
Hot wire probe calibration using artificial neural network
Authors: Erdil Ahmet , Arcaklıoğlu Erol
Published: March 2009

Hot wire anemometers (HWAs) are used as research tools in fluid mechanics. In HWA measurements, a hot wire probe calibration stage must be carried out before the experiments, in order to determine the relation between the probe voltage and fluid velocity at the nozzle exit, because of variation in the ambient conditions. In this study, a hot wire probe calibration system is used to calibrate a one-dimensional hot wire probe by means of an AN-1005 HWA, which operates as a constant temperature anemometer (CTA). Experimental results have been used to train an artificial neural network (ANN) in order to produce a new calibration curve for new conditions, because calibration is time consuming and difficult. The network has yielded an R2 value of 0.999, and very small root-mean-squared values, which indicate that predicted values are close to the experimental ones, and the ANN model gives a good approximation for the calibration curve under different conditions. In addition, formulations have been prepared according to a hidden number of neurons studied. Since the necessary formulae have been given, anyone could use these variables to obtain predictions from the ANN as if the hot wire probe has been operated.
Motion conditions justification of an omni-directional mobile platform by electro-mechanical transduction matrix
Authors: Kuo Y.L. , Lin J.Y. , Lee Y.N.
Published: March 2009

The paper presents a new approach to electro-mechanical transduction applied to motion conditions justification of an omni-directional mobile platform without implementing conventional mechanical sensors. Since the experimental platform is driven by four DC motors, the electro-mechanical transduction of a DC motor is identified by theoretical derivation. Also, the motion modelling of the mobile platform is presented. Based on the evaluation of mechanical impedance, an experimental example demonstrates that the platform has the function of road surface sensing, which can be used as a base for controlling the motion of the platform. The verification of the rotating speed of a DC motor is also provided, and the results show that the proposed approach can accurately respond to the motion of the platform.
Optimal LuGre friction model identification based on genetic algorithm and sliding mode control of a piezoelectric-actuating table
Authors: Huang Shiuh-Jer , Chiu Chun-Ming
Published: March 2009

A piezoelectric friction actuating mechanism is employed to construct a long travelling range sub-micro X—Y positioning table. The piezoelectric material is used to generate high-frequency oscillation for actuating a fingertip, which in is contact with a slide to induce back-and-forth motion. The LuGre friction model is chosen to simulate the friction dynamics of this positioning mechanism. The genetic algorithm (GA) is employed to search for the optimal friction model parameters. However, this piezoelectric actuating system has an obvious non-linear and time-varying dead-zone offset control voltage related to the static friction and preload. The GA-estimated LuGre dynamic model is still not accurate enough for model-based precision control design. Hence, sliding mode control (SMC) with robust behaviour is employed to design a non-linear controller for this piezoelectric friction actuating mechanism. The Laypunov-like design strategy is adopted to satisfy the system stability criterion. Tracking control of different trajectories is planned to investigate the motion control performances and the steady-state errors of the SMC non-linear controller based on the GA-estimated model. The dynamic experimental results of the proposed non-linear controllers are also compared with that of a model-based PID controller.
Fathering at the Margins of Society
Authors: Wilkinson Deanna L. , Magora Amanda , Garcia Marie , Khurana Atika
Published: March 2009

This study aims to broaden researchers' understanding of fatherhood by focusing on an understudied population of young, urban, minority, crime-involved fathers. Using 115 qualitative life history interviews, the authors examine fatherhood expectations, role participation, and ideals. Study fathers described very similar ideals for being fathers (e.g., providing financial resources, caring, basic needs, spending time together, and being a role model) as have been reported by less disadvantaged men. Aspects of the father's life-course trajectory and ecological niche were important for understanding individual differences in fathering behaviors. Consistent with life-course principles, those fathers with fewer developmental assets were more likely to be uninvolved. Specifically, we found that being young, Puerto Rican, detached from the child's mother, low in human capital, and involved in crime were associated with being absent. The findings suggest that young fathers experiencing cumulative disadvantage face multiple challenges that inhibit their ability to reach their fatherhood expectations.
Towards Microcantilever-based Force Sensing and Manipulation: Modeling, Control Development and Implementation
Authors: Saeidpourazar Reza , Jalili Nader
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a distributed-parameters-based modeling framework for piezoresistive microcantilever (MC)-based force sensors used in a variety of cantilever-based nanomanipulation processes. Current modeling practices call for a simple lumped-parameters approach rather than modeling the piezoresistive MC itself. Owing to the widespread applications of such MCs in nanoscale force sensing or non-contact atomic force microscopy with nano-Newton to pico-Newton force measurement requirements, precise modeling of the piezoresistive MCs is essential. Instead of the previously used lumped-parameters modeling, a distributed-parameters modeling framework is proposed and developed here to arrive at the most complete model of the piezoresistive MC including tip-mass, tip-force and base movement considerations. In order to have online control and real-time sensor feedback, a closed-form model of the piezoresistive MC, which expresses the MC's piezoresistive output voltage as a function of tip force and base motion, is highly desirable. Along this line of reasoning, a closed-form model for the piezoresistive MC is presented. Following mathematical modeling, both numerical simulations and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed distributed-parameters model when compared with the previously reported lumped-parameters modeling approach. Utilizing the developed model, a modified robust controller with perturbation estimation is adopted to target the problem of slow imaging acquisition and manipulation at the nanoscale. It is shown that the proposed controller can stabilize such nanomanipulation process in less than a second. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the stability and performance characteristics of the designed controller. Such modeling and control development could pave the way for MC-based nanomanipulation and nanopositioning.
Nanorobot for Brain Aneurysm
Authors: Cavalcanti Adriano , Shirinzadeh Bijan , Fukuda Toshio , Ikeda Seiichi
Published: March 2009

In this paper we present how nanoelectronics should advance medicine, providing details on the teleoperated techniques and equipment design methodology necessary for the effective development of nanorobots. The platform architecture describes how to use a nanorobot for intracranial prognosis, and shows how it should be integrated for medical instrumentation. Furthermore, the current study establishes proteomics, nanobioelectronics, and electromagnetics as the basis to advance medical nanorobotics. To illustrate the proposed approach, the nanorobots must search for protein overexpression signals in order to recognize initial stages of aneurysm. An advanced nanomechatromics simulator, using a three-dimensional task-based environment, is implemented to provide an effective tool for device prototyping and medical instrumentation analysis. Thus, based on clinical data and nanobioelectronics, the proposed model offers details about how a nanorobot should help with the early detection of cerebral aneurysm.
A Scaled Bilateral Control System for Experimental One-dimensional Teleoperated Nanomanipulation
Authors: Onal Cagdas D. , Sitti Metin
Published: March 2009

In this work, one-dimensional experimental teleoperated nanomanipulation with force and visual feedback is demonstrated by using an atomic force microscope on the slave side and a haptic device on the master side. Three main topics are addressed that are especially relevant for force feedback in teleoperation at the nanoscale: transparency, impedance reflection according to human perception and stability. To further assist the operator, the Maugis—Dugdale elastic contact mechanics model is utilized to provide an augmented reality visual interface. As a result, a robust platform to perform teleoperated nanomanipulation on a broad range of materials is achieved. The performance of the resulting system is demonstrated on experimental results for vertical tip positioning tasks on glass, polystyrene and silicone rubber substrates with force and visual feedback. Experimental results indicate that softer substrates yield higher positioning errors and lower reaching speeds. Finally, one-dimensional nanoindentation of a flat polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) surface using the proposed teleoperation system is demonstrated.
Real-time Rigid-body Visual Tracking in a Scanning Electron Microscope
Authors: Kratochvil Bradley E. , Lixin Dong  , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: March 2009

Robotics continues to provide researchers with an increasing ability to interact with objects at the nanoscale. As microrobotic and nanorobotic technologies mature, more interest is given to computer-assisted or automated approaches to manipulation. Although actuators are currently available that enable displacement resolutions in the subnanometer range, improvements in feedback technologies have not kept pace. Thus, many actuators that are capable of performing nanometer displacements are limited in automated tasks by the lack of suitable feedback mechanisms. This paper proposes the use of a rigid-model-based method for end-effector tracking in a scanning electron microscope to aid in enabling more precise automated manipulations and measurements. These models allow the system to leverage domain-specific knowledge to improve performance in a challenging tracking environment.
Multiscale Design and Modeling of Protein-based Nanomechanisms for Nanorobotics
Authors: Hamdi Mustapha , Ferreira Antoine
Published: March 2009

In this paper, we present a novel approach that makes use of multiscale and multiphysics modeling coupled to virtual reality for nanorobotic prototyping systems. First, a CAD-assisted assembly system that integrates principles for a multiscale approach into a nanorobotics structure design is presented. Then, we focus on the different design levels, more specifically, the optimization of geometry structure carried out by quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics and continuum mechanics methodologies. As an illustration of the proposed multiscale modeling concepts, we test the dynamic characteristics of a molecular sarcomere mechanism through steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations. The nano-kinematic parallel platform is composed of protein-based passive kinematic chains and actuated by myosin actuators. Multiscale simulations and experiments prove the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed design and modeling approaches.
Computational Studies of a Protein-based Nanoactuator for Nanogripping Applications
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Mavroidis Constantinos , Rege Kaushal , Yarmush Martin L. , Budil David
Published: March 2009

The design hypothesis, architectures, and computational modeling of a novel peptide-based nanoactuator are presented in this paper. We engineered the α-helical coiled-coil portion of the yeast transcriptional activator peptide called GCN4 to obtain an environmentally responsive nanoactuator. The dimeric coiled-coil peptide consists of two identical approximately 4.5 nm long and approximately 3 nm wide polypeptide chains. The actuation mechanism depends on the modification of electrostatic charges along the peptide by varying the pH of the solution resulting in the reversible movement of helices and, therefore, creating the motion of an actuator. Using molecular dynamics simulations we showed that pH changes led to a reversible opening of up to 1.5 nm which is approximately 150% of the initial separation of the nanoactuator. We also investigated the forces generated by the nanoactuator upon pH actuation, using a new method based on a modified steered molecular dynamics technique. Owing to its open and close motion resembling that of tweezers, the new nanoactuator can potentially be used as a nanogripper in various nanomanipulation tasks such as detection and removal of heavy metal ions during nanofabrication processes or as a molecular switch.
Meeting the Challenge of Building Diamondoid Medical Nanorobots
Authors: Freitas Robert A.
Published: March 2009

The technologies that are needed for the atomically precise fabrication of diamondoid nanorobots in macroscale quantities at low cost require the development of a new nanoscale manufacturing technology called positional diamondoid molecular manufacturing, enabling diamondoid nanofactories that can build nanorobots. Achieving this new technology will require the significant further development of four closely related technical capabilities: (1) diamond mechanosynthesis1 (2) programmable positional assembly1 (3) massively parallel positional assembly1 and (4) nanomechanical design. The Nanofactory Collaboration is coordinating a combined experimental and theoretical effort involving direct collaboration among dozens of researchers at multiple institutions in four countries to explore the feasibility of positionally controlled mechanosynthesis of diamondoid structures using simple molecular feedstocks, which is the first step along a direct pathway to developing working nanofactories that can fabricate diamondoid medical nanorobots.
Post-national Europe — without cosmopolitan guarantees
Authors: Hansen Peo
Published: March 2009

For some years, a growing crowd of 'cosmopolitan' Left-liberal scholars and intellectuals have been taking aim at the nation state, holding it responsible for numerous grave problems facing Europe and the wider world, ranging from growing anti-immigrant sentiments to the absence of a counterweight to US neoconservative unilateralism. In this view, 'more Europe', as in more supranational EU integration, is said to be the key solution, paving the way for a progressive, human rights-based 'cosmopolitan Europe' capable of transcending the vices of national self-interest. This article offers a critique of such an EU-based cosmopolitan promise, focusing primarily on asylum policy. Since there has been an increased EU involvement in asylum policy in recent years, it makes for an ideal context to discuss and 'test' the cosmopolitan 'more Europe' thesis. It is argued that, while there are as many good reasons to remain critical of the nation state as there are injustices committed in its name, recognition of this fact cannot be allowed to spill over uncritically into the nowadays fashionable contention that progress will automatically result from diminishing national sovereignty and the shift of policy-making to the EU level. As the case of 'Europeanised' asylum policy demonstrates, there are no guarantees whatsoever to that effect.
Sweden: HIV/AIDS policy and the 'crisis' of multiculturalism
Authors: Bredström Anna
Published: March 2009

This article examines shifts in the ways that immigrants were framed and depicted within Swedish HIV/AIDS policy discourse from 1985 to 2005. In particular, it examines whether, when and how immigrants were linked to understandings of risk and safety in sexual relations. Whereas, at first, immigrants were rather marginal to this discourse, they later held a central position. Moreover, there was a shift in how ethnicity and 'race' were conceptualised by the Swedish authorities — a movement away from cultural pluralism towards neo-assimilationism. Throughout this time, cultural differences, often defined in terms of different attitudes to gender and sexuality, were focused on as defining the boundaries between 'immigrants' and 'Swedes'. But, whereas the pluralist approach favoured respect and tolerance for these differences, the neo-assimilationist approach that replaced it argued that immigrants ought to assimilate to the more enlightened sexual values of Swedishness, in order to better prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS infection.
Germany: constructing a sociology of Islamist radicalisation
Authors: Dornhof Sarah
Published: March 2009

A major academic survey of Muslims in Germany seeks to measure and describe their attitudes to integration, religion, democracy and violence in order to identify the 'problem group' of those who are at risk of radicalisation into Islamist extremism. Yet the design of the survey and its categories of interpretation tell us more about the assumptions of the researchers than about the cultural, religious or political life of Muslims in Germany.
Classifying Sexual Offenders
Authors: Woessner Gunda
Published: March 2009

Although recidivism is lower among sexual offenders who have received treatment than those who have not, evaluation and treatment studies reach different numbers on recidivism rates and effectiveness. The question still remains as to what exactly works for whom; that is, does one kind of treatment work for all sexual offenders? This empirical study attempts to develop a sex offender typology that refers to treatment-relevant factors and characteristics to generate a framework for developing specific treatment approaches. In a first step the authors conduct a survey of experts to identify treatment-relevant factors for the later typology. In the main part of the study, 199 sexual offenders incarcerated in German prison and forensic facilities are examined according to the identified characteristics. A cluster analysis results in five subtypes of sexual offenders. In this article, the clusters are presented with regard to their criminologically relevant characteristics, and implications for type-related interventions are discussed.
At Home in Karachi
Authors: Verkaaik Oskar
Published: March 2009

Cities are difficult to control. The moral panic that is part of much social scientific and military research on cities for more than a century is still manifest today. In Pentagon sources Karachi is mentioned as one of those `feral, failed cities' that are expected to become the sites of future conflicts that will take the form of asymmetric combat within non-nodal, non-hierarchical urban terrains. But the strategies proposed by the US army have already been put into practice by the Pakistani military for several decades. This article looks at what these military measures do to people living in the city. It does so by focusing on the concept of `home' or `quasi-domesticity', and distinguishes three phases in patterns of how Karachiites felt at home in their city: the postcolonial period, when it was still possible to feel `at home' in the city as a whole; the time of mass migration, when `home' retreated into bastis and neighbourhoods; and the more recent times of ethnic and religious conflict, when `home' became a deterrorialized, mobile and ethnicized form of local cosmopolitanism.