bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical tip: cold saline infiltration instead of local anaesthetic in endovenous laser treatment
Authors: Chong P F S , Kumar R , Kushwaha R , Sweeney A , Chaloner E J
Published: May 2006

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a novel technique that is fast gaining acceptance as an alternative to open surgery for the treatment of long saphenous vein incompetence. In our experience, the use of cold saline infiltration (CSI) prior to laser occlusion is a safe alternative to local anaesthetic infiltration (LAI), avoiding the risks associated with local anaesthetic toxicity. CSI does not affect the immediate outcome of EVLT and allows the use of LAI to be reserved for additional open phlebectomies if required.
Exercise with compression stockings improves reflux in patients with mild chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Zajkowski P J , Draper T , Bloom J , Henke P K , Wakefield T W
Published: May 2006

Purpose: This study evaluates the effectiveness of calf muscle strengthening with compression stockings on the haemodynamics in patients with venous disease.

Method: Patients were assigned to a protocol of aggressive management of their chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) including compression stockings (Jobst knee high, 30–40 mmHg ankle), intermittent leg elevation, and a supervised calf muscle strengthening programme. Patients underwent baseline air plethysmography (APG) with and without stockings (T1) and SF-12, Aberdeen varicose vein questionnaire and venous severity score. Exercise sessions included a total of 18, 1 h supervised sessions, 2–3 times per week, consisting of 15 min on treadmill, 10 min on a Stairmaster, 10 min on a Nustep, and 5 min on an airdyne bicycle and lower body strength training. The sessions were supervised by an exercise physiologist. At completion, patients underwent a second APG (T2) and a third (T3) one month later, as well as answering questionnaires. A final venous severity score was assigned.

Results: Eleven patients (7M, 4F), 22 limbs, 14 with CVI and eight without CVI, mean age 60, made up this study. Only two patients suffered from postphlebitic syndrome. In all, 10/11 subjects completed the entire protocol. Although no significant differences were noted in any of the APG parameters between T1 and T2 or T2 and T3, there were significant differences when segregating into C2 ( n = 6 patients with eight involved limbs) and C4, 5 ( n = 5 patients with six involved limbs). Concerning the affected extremities, statistically significant decreases in venous volume (VV) with stockings on between T1 and T2, which reverted back to baseline at T3, and in venous filling index (VFI) between T2 and T3 without stockings were noted ( P<0.05) in C2 limbs. Similar findings were not observed in the C4, C5 limbs, with actual increases in these parameters. Greater increases in ejection fraction were noted in C2 limbs than in C4, C5 limbs. Despite the decrease in reflux in C2 limbs, residual volume fraction (RVF) increased in C2 limbs at T2 both with ( P<0.05) and without stockings, while it decreased in C4, C5 limbs with stockings in place. Finally, outflow fraction (OF) increased only in C2 limbs without stockings in place. Regarding the other parameters, all patients noted improvement in swelling by Aberdeen questionnaire, physical health was improved by SF-12 and patients lost a mean of 3.8 lb of weight.

Conclusions: An exercise programme along with compression stockings resulted in a decrease in reflux, especially during the supervised exercise programme, in patients with mild (C2) chronic venous disease. For more extensive disease (C4, C5), the programme tended to decrease RVF.
Microscopy and culture for Trichomonas vaginalis: are both required?
Authors: Cohen C E , Gilmour C , Mandalia S , McLean K A
Published: May 2006

Many genitourinary medicine clinics have stopped routinely performing both wet preparation microscopy and cultures to diagnose Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Our directorate stopped microscopy when screening asymptomatic women. This audit considers whether both tests continue to be warranted for symptomatic female patients. The discrepancy between microscopy and culture results leads us to recommend that both remain necessary. Sampling standardization and improved documentation are discussed.
Incidence of concurrent sexually transmitted infections in patients with genital warts
Authors: Griffiths V , Cheung W-H , Carlin E M , Ahmed-Jushuf I
Published: May 2006

A case-note audit of patients presenting to a genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic with external genital warts during a six-month period was conducted. Approximately 40% of patients were referred by a general practitioner or other primary care agency, and >50% were suitable for home-based treatment. Overall incidence of co-existing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the study population was 14.0%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that age <25 years and presence of other genital symptoms were risk factors for co-existing STIs. All patients with a non-chlamydial STI had genital symptoms. We recommend that patients with uncomplicated genital warts and no additional genital symptoms can be treated in primary care, with chlamydia-screening offered to those aged <25 years.
Re-infection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis infections among men who have sex with men
Authors: Lister N A , Smith A , Tabrizi S N , Garland S , Fairley C K
Published: May 2006

Our aim was to determine the incidence of re-infection of men who have sex with men (MSM) for rectal Neisseria gonorrhoeae (RNg) and rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (RCt) infection. The medical records of 126 MSM diagnosed with RNg or RCt infections at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre were reviewed. A total of 68 of the 126 (54%) MSM were re-tested. Among the HIV-positive MSM, 17 (81%) of 21 were re-tested and eight were positive (47%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 23–72%). Among the 51 (49%) of 105 of the HIV-negative or unknown MSM re-tested, 13 (25%, 14–40) were positive. Of the 21 infections identified, five cases were symptomatic. The incidence of rectal infections among MSM is high and prior RNg or RCt should be included as a risk factor for frequent screening.
Nevirapine toxicity
Authors: Taiwo B O
Published: May 2006

The number of HIV-infected patients who are newly exposed to nevirapine is increasing worldwide. To minimize toxicity, clinicians must adhere to dosing guidelines, avoid prescribing the drug in patients with known increased risk of toxicity, and promptly recognize toxicities, which are mainly cutaneous and hepatic. These toxicities are more common with nevirapine than with efavirenz. Women with CD4 counts >250 cells/mm3 have particularly increased susceptibility to nevirapine toxicity. Improved understanding of the pathogenesis of nevirapine toxicity, and its relationship with pharmacokinetic parameters, genetic factors and cellular immune kinetics will enhance our ability to reduce the risk to the HIV-infected individual.
Syphilitic periostitis in a newly diagnosed HIV-positive man
Authors: Coyne K , Browne R , Anagnostopoulos C , Nwokolo N
Published: May 2006

A 36-year-old man presented for an HIV test, which answered positive. He gave a six-week history of headache and fever. His syphilis serology was also positive with a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) titre of 1:32, and positive Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) assay and fluorescent treponemal antibody (FTA). When he attended for treatment of the syphilis, he had developed severe pain in both lower limbs. Plain radiographs were normal. An isotope bone scan showed multiple areas of increased uptake, consistent with syphilitic periostitis. Some of these lesions were asymptomatic. He was treated with benzathine penicillin and his pain resolved. The bone scan had normalized after six months. We review the previous literature regarding syphilitic bone pain and periostitis. We discuss the importance of considering syphilis in the differential diagnosis of any sexually active adult presenting with bone pain, and highlight the usefulness of isotope bone scans in clarifying the clinical picture.
Clinical correlates of rectal gonococcal and chlamydial infections
Authors: McMillan A , Young H
Published: May 2006

As few studies have compared the clinical features of rectal gonorrhoea in men who have sex with men with or without concurrent chlamydial infection, this longitudinal study was undertaken to address this issue. The cohort consisted of 129 men with rectal gonorrhoea, 34 of whom had concurrent chlamydiae. Symptoms of proctitis in men with rectal gonorrhoea with or without concurrent chlamydial infection were significantly higher than in men with isolated chlamydial infection (27% versus 10% [χ2 = 17.55; P<0.0001]). There was, however, no significant difference in the prevalence of symptoms between those with rectal gonorrhoea only (28%) and those with concurrent chlamydiae (23%); χ2 = 0.11; P>0.05). The median prepatent period or rectal gonorrhoea (21 men) was 5.0 days (interquartile range 11.0 days).
The challenges of involving traditional healers in HIV/AIDS care
Authors: Mills E , Singh S , Wilson K , Peters E , Onia R , Kanfer I
Published: May 2006

In sub-Saharan Africa, traditional healers play a major role in providing for the needs of people, particularly in rural areas where western health care is unavailable. Despite a paucity of reliable figures to determine the prevalence of traditional medicine usage, it is estimated that some 70% of sub-Saharan Africans access traditional healers. There is now mounting evidence of the importance of involving traditional healers in the management of the HIV/AIDS epidemic – both for their potential benefits, although poorly researched and understood, and to reduce the impact that some traditional healing interventions may play on the spread of HIV/AIDS and unsafe treatment of infected patients. While there are few collaborative projects between traditional healers and biomedical health providers, there is an enthusiasm on the part of traditional healers to collaborate and learn from their western-trained counterparts. Collaboration is essential, given the changing epidemic of HIV and the dynamic relationship between the two health sectors.
Does the Internet assist clients to carry out contact tracing? A randomized controlled trial using web-based information
Authors: Tomnay J E , Pitts M K , Kuo T C , Fairley C K
Published: May 2006

The primary outcome was to determine the acceptability of the Internet, specifically a website for use in standard partner notification. A secondary objective was to determine if a website would enhance the outcomes of currently used partner notification methods. In a randomized control trial, 105 participants diagnosed with chlamydia and non-gonoccocal urethritis (NGU) were randomized and 97 completed the study. About 30% of participants were provided a standard partner letter and 70% were provided the standard partner letter and website. All participants reported that their partners had no objections to the website (0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0–5%). There were no complaints received from any partner. The odds ratio for contacting partners was not significantly different between the two groups of participants. The results of this study indicate that providing a website with specific information about the infection to which a partner has been exposed is not harmful.
Is antiretroviral therapy associated with symptom prevalence and burden?
Authors: Harding Richard , Molloy Tim , Easterbrook Philippa , Frame Karen , Higginson Irene J
Published: May 2006

Although distressing pain and other symptoms have been reported at all stages of HIV disease, studies have not taken account of the relative contribution of treatment side-effects and underlying disease. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of symptoms, their burden and the association with use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Three hundred and forty-seven gay men with HIV disease completed an online survey, reporting data on age, CD4, viral load, year of diagnosis, HAART use, and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF).

Those men currently receiving HAART ( n=210, 56.6%) reported a higher number of symptoms than those without (14 versus 10.3, P=0.001). Fourteen physical symptoms were significantly more frequent among HAART users. Symptoms of psychological distress were the most common in both groups, ranging from 69.2% to 79.5%. Mean distress indices were higher for those on treatment with respect to both global ( P=0.011) and physical ( P=0.001) distress. In multivariate analysis, use of HAART was independently associated with number of physical symptoms ( b=2.81, P=0.006), and physical distress score ( b=2.45, P=0.017); both increasing with HAART use when controlling for age, year of diagnosis, CD4 and viral load. The high symptom prevalence, particularly psychological symptoms, is comparable with end-stage malignant and non-malignant diseases. Greater attention needs to be paid to the assessment and management of burdensome symptoms.
A review of HIV point-of-care tests
Authors: Dewsnap C H , Mcowan A
Published: May 2006

Current epidemiological data show a large proportion of those with HIV in the UK remain undiagnosed. There is high level of transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among men having sex with men (MSM). There is credible evidence that there are increasing rates of HIV transmission in heterosexuals. In MSM the uptake of confidential HIV testing is increasing although 43% of those who are HIV positive may leave the clinic unaware of their infection. Rapid access to genitourinary (GU) medicine services varies but there is still a significant problem with less than 50% of those attending GU medicine clinics not being seen within 48 hours. Within our speciality, new methods are being developed to help improve access to diagnostic services. One of these developments is the increasing use of rapid point-of-care tests, which may overcome some of the barriers to HIV testing and diagnosis. We look at the availability, practical implications, benefits and potential difficulties of implementing these devices in HIV testing services.
Prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae in an HIV/AIDS clinic
Authors: Chan D J , Tapsall J
Published: May 2006

Antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae is increasing in the Pacific region. The standard antibiotic used in urban Australia is intramuscular ceftriaxone. Isolates with reduced sensitivity are being isolated; however, resistance to ceftriaxone has yet to occur. Continued surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in the pathogen, with communication between clinic and laboratory, is needed to ensure optimal treatment of infection.
Trends in clinical encounters for pelvic inflammatory disease and epididymitis in a national sample of Australian general practices
Authors: Chen Marcus Y , Pan Ying , Britt Helena , Donovan Basil
Published: May 2006

Trends in the frequency of clinical encounters for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and epididymitis in Australian general practice were determined via a national representative study of general practice activity between 1998 and 2003. Information was derived from 502,100 general practice encounters that occurred during the study period. An estimated 59,200 encounters for PID and 54,200 encounters for epididymitis took place in Australian general practice each year. Despite increases in national notification rates for Chlamydia trachomatis, over the study period overall encounter rates did not change significantly for either condition, and a fall in encounter rates for PID of about 50% occurred among women aged 15–34 years ( P=0.02). Only 0.3% of encounters for PID and 1.9% of those for epididymitis resulted in hospital referral. On a population level, trends in the incidence of chlamydia-related diseases do not necessarily parallel those of reported chlamydia rates.
Texting – a revolution in sexual health communication
Authors: Dhar J , Leggat C , Bonas S
Published: May 2006

Recent increases in demand on our service have posed challenges to the viability of our walk-in sexually transmitted infection services in Leicester. Areas identified as hot spots were patient waiting times, result provision and staff stress levels. To improve patient and staff satisfaction, new technologies to facilitate communication with patients were explored and then implemented in April 2003. A summary of the data analysed for the period April 2003–June 2004 is presented, including survey of the users and non-users of this facility.
Patterns of age mixing and sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Kraut-Becher J R , Aral S O
Published: May 2006

Age mixing is an important indicator of sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevalence in partner pools. We use the 1995 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), a nationally representative sample of reproductive-age American women, to assess the extent of age mixing and to examine the association between age mixing and STI history. Almost half (48%) of the women in our sample report partnerships with much older or younger men. The likelihood of an STI diagnosis or receipt of STI care (test or treatment) increases as the age difference increases among adolescents. Women in their mid-to-late 20s with much younger partners report receipt of STI care more often than other women. Report of an STI diagnosis is more common among older women with much younger partners than among others of their age. Age-mixing information may be helpful for screening initiatives and targeting interventions aimed at decreasing STI rates, their sequelae, and STI transmission.
Misconceptions about HIV transmission, stigma and willingness to take sexual risks in southwestern China
Authors: Derlega V J , Yang X , Luo H
Published: May 2006

Based on data from a population-based survey conducted in 2003 in a province in southwestern China, we provide data on knowledge about HIV transmission, HIV stigmatizing attitudes, and willingness to take HIV-related risks. There were widespread misconceptions, especially among females, about how HIV is transmitted and negative feelings toward someone with HIV. There was considerable willingness to take more sexual risks (not using a condom; nondisclosure of HIV seropositive status) with a secondary than with a primary sexual partner. The misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV may make it difficult to focus on HIV as a 'disease' as opposed to a 'social malady' for survey participants.
Changing World of Neuroscience and Clinical Practice: A Personal Perspective Part 1 — Paediatric Brain Injury
Authors: Ewing Jan
Published: May 2006

In the last 10 to 15 years there has been much development in the knowledge base that underpins clinical neurospychology. The aim of this article is to highlight new information about normal development in the intact brain and discuss the implications that this knowledge has had on paediatric brain injury. A personal perspective of the impact of this area of developing knowledge on clinical practice is illustrated using two recent clinical cases. A second article will discuss the impact on adult neuropsychology and will appear in a subsequent issue.
Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR): Hazardous Contaminated Soil or Solid Waste?
Authors: Dermatas D , Bonaparte R , Chrysochoou M , Moon DH
Published: May 2006

Chromite ore processing residue (COPR), which contains hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) at concentrations typically in the range of thousands of milligrams/kilograms, was deposited over a timeframe of 50 years as fill at a site referred to as SA7 in New Jersey. Significant surface heaving associated with COPR weathering-induced mineralogical expansion has been observed at the site over time. The current site owner is being required to remediate the site to mitigate both human health risks associated with the Cr6+ and site redevelopment problems associated with COPR heave. The owner is presently required to remediate the COPR by excavation and off-site disposal at a licensed hazardous waste landfill. This is a very expensive remediation option, one that may not be financially sustainable at other COPR impacted sites. The owner has undertaken a major investigation to better characterize the nature of COPR and to develop on-site treatment technologies to reduce Cr6+ concentrations and mitigate COPR heave potential. As one part of the investigation, the characteristics of COPR were evaluated with respect to the definitions of hazardous contaminated soil and hazardous solid waste under the toxicity characteristic waste provisions of the U.S. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Remediation clean-up standards, and thus the potential costs and applicable methods associated with site remediation, under these two definitions are significantly different. This paper explains these differences and evaluates the COPR for conformance with each definition. This evaluation includes comparison of sampling, logging, and laboratory testing techniques for COPR compared to soil, geotechnical parameter comparisons, and mineralogical and total metals comparisons. Based on these comparisons, the authors conclude that COPR should classify as a hazardous contaminated soil from both regulatory and scientific perspectives. The bases for this conclusion are provided in the paper. The methodology presented herein to evaluate COPR classification may have applicability to other contaminated soil-like media from industrial processes that are potentially subject to the requirements of RCRA hazardous waste regulations or similar regulations in other countries.
Disposal of Dredged Material in a Local Confined Disposal Facility: Budgeting and Accounting of Contaminant Transport
Authors: Eek E , Pettersen A , Hauge A , Breedveld GD , Solberg A , Heines SU , Solberg K , Lie SO
Published: May 2006

Disposal of contaminated dredged material in local confined disposal facilities (CDF) has the advantages of reduced costs and reduced need for transport of the dredged material compared to many other disposal alternatives. CDFs can often be combined with land reclamation which can add considerable value to a dredging project. A local CDF has been constructed for Hg and HCB contaminated dredged material on a contaminated seabed close to one of Norway's largest industrial areas, Herøya. The construction has been completed with permeable barriers allowing transport of water from dewatering of dredged material and consolidation of sediment below the CDF. However, this design will also allow some transport of contaminants with the released pore water. The efficiency of the CDF was evaluated by making a budget of estimated contaminant emission from the disposal area before, during, and after construction and filling of the CDF. Laboratory tests and an analytical model were utilized for calculation of advective and diffusive transport of contaminants both from the dredged material and from the original contaminated seabed sediment at the disposal site. Our estimation of contaminant transport predicted that the leakage of contaminants from dredged material in the disposal facility would be orders of magnitude less than what was released from the seabed sediments at the disposal site before the realization of the CDF. Monitoring of contaminant transport, after realization of the CDF, has so far shown that the actual transport is much lower than the conservative estimate presented in our budget of contaminant transport. These results show that there can be a large and positive cost benefit from disposal of dredged material in CDFs constructed with permeable barriers in already contaminated areas. Sensitivity of calculated remediation efficiency to uncertainties in the estimated transport was found to be small in the case presented here. Our results also show that budgeting and accounting of contaminant transport can be a powerful tool both for impact assessments before realization of a project in contaminated sediments and for interpretation of monitoring data during and after the realization. Budgeting of contaminant transport also helps identifying the most critical transport mechanisms during the different phases of the project.
Contamination of Sediments and Proposed Containment Technique in a Wood Pool in Shimizu, Japan
Authors: Fukue M , Sato Y , Uehara K , Kato Y , Furukawa Y
Published: May 2006

The objective of this study is to evaluate the contamination of sediments, in order to determine a remediation method for a local bay bottom. To achieve this, 12 surface-sediment samples were obtained from a wood pool located in the inner part of Shimizu Port, Japan, and were subjected to physical and chemical analyses. The results show that the concentrations of the heavy metals measured were relatively high. The concentrations of copper and zinc in the sediment samples were higher than the probable effect levels of marine sediments provided by the Canadian Sediment Quality Guidelines. The high concentrations obtained are probably due to the high organic content resulting from humus. The separation of organic matter might be useful as a remediation technique for dredged materials. A containment technique for dredged sediments using permeable bags is therefore proposed.
Biochemical Effects on the Long-Term Mobility of Heavy Metals in Marine Clay at Coastal Landfill Sites
Authors: Kamon M , Zhang H , Katsumi T , Inui T
Published: May 2006

In coastal landfill facilities that are constructed to contain municipal and industrial wastes in Japan, natural marine clay layers serve as bottom liners to prevent pollutant migration. Leachates from landfills are rich in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) that can be used by micro-organisms. Biological processes could lead to redox reactions that change the pH and Eh. These biochemical factors may strongly influence the behavior of pollutants leached from landfills, particularly heavy metals. In this paper, modified batch tests were conducted to investigate the effects of pH and Eh and to simulate both chemical and biochemical reactions on zinc mobility in a marine clay layer. To examine the effects of pH and Eh, the pH and Eh were controlled by adding acid or base, respectively, and a reducing agent. To study the zinc mobility, biochemical reactions were enhanced by cultivating native micro-organisms, which gradually changed the pH and Eh conditions. Batch tests with different DOC concentrations were also conducted to evaluate the effect of DOC on zinc mobility. In addition, biochemical processes in the bottom clay liners at coastal landfill sites that receive municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerator ash were simulated by batch tests using a solution of MSW incinerator ash mixed with seawater along with cultivating native micro-organisms found in marine clay. The experimental results indicated that microbial activities in closed soil-water systems result in strongly reduced conditions compared to that controlled by a strong reducing agent, and that the zinc mobility is lowered through the formation of sulfides. Although microbial activity was initially limited under highly alkaline conditions due to MSW incinerator ash, the pH gradually decreased mainly due to the formation of organic acids from microbial activity. Under the oxidized conditions, the solubility of zinc was controlled by pH and the Eh had a negligible effect on the zinc concentration. DOC in the leachate served as a bioavailable carbon source for microbial activities, which promoted anaerobic conditions in the soil-water system and the immobilization of zinc. However, DOC also formed soluble complexes with heavy metals, which increased the zinc concentration. These observations confirmed that heavy metals in the leachates became immobilized under the conditions found at landfill bottom liners when estimated in terms of pH, Eh, and DOC.
Current Status of Estrogenlike Compounds in Sediments in Enclosed Sea Areas
Authors: Iwasaki S , Sakka M , Kimura T , Sakka K , Matsuda T , Matsui S
Published: May 2006

The concentrations of estrogenlike compounds in sediment were surveyed in Ise Bay and Ago Bay, which are typical of enclosed sea areas. Fourteen sediment samples were collected from the deepest part at the entrances to these bays. The examination of estrogenlike compounds was performed by a yeast screen assay developed by Professor J. P. Sumpter. The highest concentrations of estrogenlike compounds of sediment were found in the deepest part of Ise Bay (6.54 μg kg-1), and quantified as 17β-estradiol (E2) active equivalent. The concentration gradually decreased approaching the entrance of the bay from the deepest part of the bay. It was suggested that this decrease could be the result of biodegradation. The sediment assay samples were fractionated by high performance liquid chromatography and assayed to determine the chemical species of estrogenlike compounds. The detected estrogenlike compounds corresponded with E1 and E2, and were found in all of the samples. They are typical natural female hormones, and their origin is presumably domestic sewage and other wastewater containing feces and urine.
Evaluation of the Removal of Heavy Metals from Contaminated Sediment in Continuous Flow Tests with Selective Sequential Extraction
Authors: Dahrazma B , Mulligan CN
Published: May 2006

Solutions to heavy metal-contaminated sediment require the understanding of the availability of heavy metals, interaction of the contaminants with soil and sediment particles, and metal retention mechanisms, which are complicated phenomena. The objective of this investigation was to study the removal of heavy metals (copper, zinc, and nickel) from the sediments by employing a biosurfactant rhamnolipid in continuous flow tests. Continuous flow of the biosurfactant in a column was applied to evaluate the feasibility of this type of setup since the configuration simulates the process of soil flushing. In the case of heavy metals, the flowing washing agent is believed to reduce the possibility of readsorption of the metals on to the soil and sediment. In addition, since the distribution of heavy meals between soil and solute is the key to evaluating the environmental impact of the metals, to determining the mobility of metals and to recommending reliable removal techniques, selective sequential extraction tests were used to determine the portion of sediment from which the metal was removed. This method is based on extracting metals with solutions of increasing strengths from different fractions of soils or sediments. Exchangeable, carbonate, reducible oxide, and organic fractions responded to washing techniques while residually bound contaminants are not economical or feasible to remove. This information is vital in proposing the most appropriate conditions for sediment washing.
Microstructure, Strength, and Consolidation Properties of Ariake Clay Deposits Obtained from Samplers
Authors: Shogaki T
Published: May 2006

The effect of tube wall friction on the microstructure of Ariake clay samples obtained from a small diameter sampler (45-mm sampler) and their strength and consolidation properties are examined from use of a color laser three-dimensional profile microscope plus unconfined compression, triaxial compression, and standard oedometer tests. The microstructure within 2 mm of the tube wall was disturbed due to wall friction. However, the disturbance in the rest of the sample had other causes and the samples were mechanically homogeneous. The unconfined compressive strength and preconsolidation pressure values obtained from the 45-mm sampler were 20 % to 40 % greater than those of the 75-mm sampler and their sample quality therefore higher.
Environmental Monitoring of the Sediment Pollution along the Thai:Laos Mekong
Authors: Keenan HE , Dyer M , Songsasen A , Bangkedphol S , Homchan U
Published: May 2006

The Mekong is an essential source of water and protein for the denizens of Thai Laos countries. However historic pollution is adversely affecting the water and sediment quality that threatens the short- and long-term supply/use of this major river system. This can have a major impact on the health and population of the marine life and ultimately adversely affect human health and the economy for both countries. As a first stage in the assessment of the scale and extent of the pollution problem, an in-depth program of sampling and analysis has been carried out for both water and sediments for three seasons since 2000. A range of water quality parameters were measured from ten sampling stations. These included the PolyAromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) initially measured as chrysene equivalents, then as individual compounds of fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene, dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, benzo(g,h,i)perylene, and indeno(1,2,3,cd)pyrene. A range of heavy metals were measured including chromium, cadmium, mercury, copper, zinc, lead, and titanium. This paper presents the results of the field study to date and provides a preliminary evaluation of the extent of the pollution and potential for bioaccumulation within the local food chain.
The Lasting Effect of Sand Capping Techniques on Nutrient Release Reduction from Contaminated Sediments in Tokyo Bay
Authors: Murakami K , Nobusawa Y , Kameyama Y
Published: May 2006

This paper describes the lasting effect of sand capping techniques on nutrient release reduction from contaminated sediments. Bottom sediments in Tokyo Bay are very contaminated as the results of eutrophication behavior. From the sediments, a large amount of nutrients are released into seawater bodies. In order to know the effect of the sand capping technique on nutrient release reduction and its lasting effect, we carried out the undisturbed sediment sampling at Yokohama Port. Then we carried out the laboratory tests to estimate the nutrient release rate. From the study, it is concluded that the sand capping technique has a still effect on nutrient release reduction from the contaminated sediments, and the effectiveness is dependent upon the thickness of mud layer accumulated on the capped sand.
Column Compression Strength of Tubular Packaging Forms Made from Paper
Authors: Urbanik TJ , Lee SK , Johnson CG
Published: May 2006

Tubular packaging forms fabricated and shaped from rolled paper are used as reinforcing corner posts for major appliances packaged in corrugated containers. Tests of column compression strength simulate the expected performance loads from appliances stacked in warehouses. Column strength depends on tube geometry, paper properties, basis weight, and number of laminations. A column strength model considers the tube geometry to be a sequence of geometric flat and arched segments with each segment apt to fail by either buckling or compression. Contributions of segments to strength depend on respective failure modes and are appropriately summed. The principles of our derived model provide insight into the optimum paper properties and number of laminations in the selection and design of tubular posts.
Decision Making in Antifungal Monotherapy versus Combination Therapy
Authors: Lewis Russell E.
Published: May 2006

The availability of new antifungal agents with novel mechanisms of action and improved tolerability has widened the possibilities for combination therapy for difficult‐to‐treat opportunistic mycoses. However, empiricism largely governs this therapy, especially in patients with invasive mould infections for whom there is a dire need to improve outcomes. Because of difficulties associated with the design and conduct of clinical trials of combination therapy for opportunistic mycoses, most studies are still performed in the laboratory or in animal models. Methods to assess combined antifungal effects in vitro and in animals are poorly standardized, and little evidence suggests that the data generated from these studies are relevant to treating patients. Even without solid evidence to support routine combination therapy, certain principles can guide its use in select patients.
Holoprosencephaly: Clinical evaluation on audiological and brainstem electrophysiological profiles
Authors: Antoneli Melissa Z. , Zanchetta Sthella , Zorzetto Neivo L. , Ribeiro Lucilene A. , Richieri‐Costa Antonio
Published: May 2006

This study evaluated audiological and electrophysiological profiles in 13 patients with holoprosencephaly. All patients had imaging evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging and molecular screening for the genes SHH, GLI2, and SIX3. Each patient underwent clinical (otological and vestibular antecedents, otoscopy) and instrumental (tympanometry, auditory brainstem response—ABR) evaluation to compare hearing and the electrophysiological profile possibly occurring in patients with these mutations. To our knowledge there are no systematic studies correlating molecular/imaging and evoked potentials in patients with HPE. Here, we discuss the audiological and electrophysiological profiles of patients and the possible role of the genes studied on the overall findings. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A mutation in the GABAA receptor α1‐subunit is associated with absence epilepsy
Authors: Maljevic Snezana , Krampfl Klaus , Cobilanschi Joana , Tilgen Nikola , Beyer Susanne , Weber Yvonne G. , Schlesinger Friedrich , Ursu Daniel , Melzer Werner , Cossette Patrick , Bufler Johannes , Lerche Holger , Heils Armin
Published: May 2006

Objective

To detect mutations in GABRA1 in idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

Methods

GABRA1 was sequenced in 98 unrelated idiopathic generalized epilepsy patients. Patch clamping and confocal imaging was performed in transfected mammalian cells.

Results

We identified the first GABRA1 mutation in a patient with childhood absence epilepsy. Functional studies showed no detectable GABA‐evoked currents for the mutant, truncated receptor, which was not integrated into the surface membrane.

Interpretation

We conclude that this de novo mutation can contribute to the cause of “sporadic” childhood absence epilepsy by a loss of function and haploinsufficiency of the GABAA receptor α1‐subunit, and that GABRA1 mutations rarely are associated with idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Ann Neurol 2006;59:983–987
Novel missense mutation in ALS2 gene results in infantile ascending hereditary spastic paralysis
Authors: Eymard‐Pierre Eleonore , Yamanaka Koji , Haeussler Martin , Kress Wolfram , Gauthier‐Barichard Fernande , Combes Patricia , Cleveland Don W. , Boespflug‐Tanguy Odile
Published: May 2006

Objective

Recessive mutations in ALS2 (juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) are causative for early‐onset upper motor neuron diseases, including infantile ascending hereditary spastic paralysis (IAHSP). The goal of this study is to identify novel disease‐causing ALS2 mutations.

Methods

Mutations in ALS2 were screened by direct sequencing of complementary DNA obtained from patients' lymphoblasts.

Results

We report a novel ALS2 missense mutation in patients affected by IAHSP. This homozygous G669A mutation in exon 4 is predicted to result in a tyrosine substitution at cysteine 156 of the RCC1 (regulator of chromatin condensation)‐like domain, encoding a putative guanine exchange factor for Ran guanosine triphosphatase, leading to a loss of ALS2 function due to instability of mutant protein.

Interpretation

These results highlight the important role of the RCC1‐like domain in ALS2 stability and function that is essential for upper motor neuron maintenance. Ann Neurol 2006;59:976–980
Head injury and Parkinson's disease risk in twins
Authors: Goldman Samuel M. , Tanner Caroline M. , Oakes David , Bhudhikanok Grace S. , Gupta Anjali , Langston J. William
Published: May 2006

Objective

Head injury is an inconsistently reported risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). Many related variables might confound this association, such as differences in childhood and adolescent lifestyles or genetically determined risk‐taking behaviors. Twin studies circumvent some of these problems, because twins are genetically and environmentally much more similar than typical cases and control subjects.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study in 93 twin pairs discordant for PD ascertained from the National Academy of Sciences/National Research Council World War II Veteran Twins Cohort.

Results

A prior head injury with amnesia or loss of consciousness was associated with an increased risk for PD (odds ratio, 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.3–11; p = 0.014). Truncating observations 10 years before PD onset enhanced the association. Though less precise, the association was somewhat stronger in monozygotic than in dizygotic pairs. Risk increased further with a subsequent head injury (p trend = 0.022) and with head injuries requiring hospitalization. Duration of unconsciousness was not associated. In a subanalysis of 18 pairs concordant for PD, the twin with younger onset PD was more likely to have sustained a head injury, although numbers were small.

Interpretation

Our results suggest that mild‐to‐moderate closed head injury may increase PD risk decades later. Ann Neurol 2006;
Inhibitory Effects of Triterpenes and Flavonoids on the Enzymatic Activity of Hyaluronic Acid‐Splitting Enzymes
Authors: Hertel Waltraud , Peschel Gundela , Ozegowski Jörg‐Hermann , Müller Peter‐Jürgen
Published: May 2006

The effect of triterpenes and flavonoids on the activity of several hyaluronic acid‐splitting enzymes was investigated. Studies showed that the inhibitory effect of the triterpenes glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid is dependent on the source of hyaluronate lyase. Hyaluronate lyase from Streptococcus agalactiae (Hyal B) and recombinant hyaluronate lyase from Streptococcus agalactiae (rHyal B) demonstrated strongest inhibition. In contrast, hyaluronate lyases from Streptomyces hyalurolyticus (Hyal S), Streptococcus equisimilis (Hyal C) and hyaluronidase from bovine testis (Dase) showed only reduced inhibition action. A non‐competitive dead end inhibition with Ki = 3.1 ± 1.8×10–6 mol/mL and Kii = 6.7 ± 2.4×10–6 mol/mL was found for glycyrrhizin on recombinant hyaluronate lyase from Streptococcus agalactiae. The inhibitory effect of flavonoids on Hyal B, rHyal B and Dase was determined depending on the number of hydroxyl groups and side chain substituents in the molecule. Flavonoids with many hydroxyl groups inhibited hyaluronate lyase stronger than those with only a few. Native hyaluronate lyase (Hyal B) showed a more extensive inhibition than the recombinant protein (rHyal B). Accordingly, the inhibition by triterpenes and flavonoids is presumably specific for each hyaluronic acid (HA)‐splitting enzyme.
Capillary Filling Flows inside Patterned‐Surface Microchannels
Authors: Huang W. , Liu Q. , Li Y.
Published: May 2006

Capillary flows inside microchannels with patterned‐surfaces are investigated theoretically and numerically. The surface energy method is used to derive an equivalent contact angle (ECA) model for small capillary number flows. The SIMPLE algorithm using a volume of fluid (VOF) method is adopted to investigate the flows in those microchannels. The flow characteristics such as the liquid front shapes and the evolution of the liquid lengths are obtained. The numerical results reveal that capillary flows in a patterned‐surface microchannel still follow the traditional capillary theories. The ECA model is confirmed by the numerical results. It indicates that the capillary flows inside the patterned‐surface microchannels can be estimated by means of the homogeneous‐surface microchannels with the equivalent contact angle. The ECA model provides a good criterion for the total wettability of a patterned‐surface microchannel, as well.
Predictions for Start‐Up Processes of Reactive Distillation Column via Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Wu H.‐X. , Tang Z.‐G. , Hu H. , Quan C. , Song H.‐H. , Li S.‐Y.
Published: May 2006

The time consumed in starting up the unit with appropriate holdups can form an important part of the total distillation time, particularly for reactive distillation systems with large holdups. Also, the products formed during the start‐up time are off specification, and are not easily recycled as for traditional distillation, but must be carefully disposed of, which can be very costly. A back‐propagation algorithm artificial neural network model is presented as a tool to assess the start‐up process for a given reactive distillation system. All the data required for training and testing the artificial neural network have been generated using the CHEMCAD simulator, version 5.2–0. The values for the learning rate, momentum term, and gain term of the artificial neural network have been taken as 0.01, 0.6, and 1.0, respectively. From the case studied in this work, it can be seen that a good start‐up policy can reduce both the energy and time requirements in the start‐up phase of reactive distillation processes. Results from predictions show the time consumed in the start‐up period has an average error of 2.833 %, and a maximum error of 7.600 %, for the case studied here. The accuracy of the model will depend upon the data available and the type of model being approximated.
Validating the Darken Relation for Diffusivities in Fluid Mixtures of Varying Densities by Use of MD Simulations
Authors: Krishna R. , van Baten J. M.
Published: May 2006

Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations have been carried out to determine the self‐diffusivities, Di,self, of the pure hydrocarbons methane (C1), ethane (C2), propane (C3), and n‐hexane (nC6) at various fluid densities. The MD simulations are in reasonable agreement with published experimental data. The influence of fluid density on both Di,self and the Maxwell‐Stefan (M‐S) diffusivities, Đij, in binary C1‐C2, C1‐C3, C2‐C3, and C1‐nC6 mixtures was also investigated. The MD simulations show that the M‐S diffusivities in binary fluid mixtures can be estimated with good accuracy using the Darken relation.
Soot in Diesel Combustion Systems
Authors: Xi J. , Zhong B.‐J.
Published: May 2006

Diesel soot, one of the major environmental pollutants, is the finer particle produced during the high temperature pyrolysis or combustion of diesel fuel. Advances in the understanding of soot formation in diesel combustion systems during the recent decades are surveyed in this paper. It is universally accepted that soot formation steps can be summarized as (1) formation of molecular precursors of soot, (2) nucleation or inception of particles from heavy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecules, (3) mass growth of particles by addition of gas phase molecules, (4) coagulation via reactive particle‐particle collisions, (5) carbonization of particulate material, and, finally, (6) oxidation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and soot particles. Several mathematical models of diesel soot formation available in the related literature are offered in this review, which are Hiroyasu's model, Moss' model, Tesner's model, Lindstedt's model, and detailed soot formation models. Experimental and numerical studies currently play an important role in exploring the diesel soot formation mechanism. The success of such studies relies on the development of both diagnostic techniques to increase the quality of experiments and mathematical models for numerical simulations.
A Practical Method to Derive Sample Temperature during Nonisothermal Coupled Thermogravimetry Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry Experiments
Authors: Salvador S. , Ferrasse J.‐H.
Published: May 2006

Nonisothermal thermogravimetry differential scanning calorimetry (TG‐DSC) mounting is intensively used for the determination of kinetic parameters and reaction heat along the chemical transformation of a solid. Nevertheless, when tests are performed with heating rates as high as those encountered in industrial processes, e.g., several tens of K min–1, there is great uncertainty in the knowledge of the exact sample temperature. In this work, a method to derive a simple mathematical expression is proposed and fully described in order to calculate the real sample temperature throughout a temperature‐ramped test on a commercial apparatus. The furnace temperature and the heat flow signals were used, together with the crucible specific heat and the heating rate. A number of validation tests were performed to derive similar reaction rates for a reference. First‐order kinetic reactions were presented and reconciled over a large range of heating rates from 3 to 50 K min–1.