bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compressibility and shear strength of municipal solid waste under short-term leachate recirculation operations
Authors: Reddy Krishna R. , Gangathulasi Janardhanan , Parakalla Naveen S. , Hettiarachchi Hiroshan , Bogner Jean E. , Lagier Thomas
Published: May 2009

This paper describes a comprehensive laboratory study performed to investigate the compressibility and shear strength properties of 1.5-year-old municipal solid waste (MSW) exhumed from a landfill cell where low amounts of leachate were recirculated. The study results are compared with results from a previous study on fresh MSW collected from the same landfill and data from previous studies with known MSW age to assess the variation in properties due to degradation. Laboratory testing was conducted on shredded landfilled and fresh MSW that consisted of similar particle-size distribution, with maximum particle size less than 40 mm and approximately 80% of the waste consisting of particles ranging from 10 to 20 mm. Standard Proctor, compressibility, direct shear, and triaxial consolidated undrained (CU) shear tests were conducted in general accordance with the American Society of Testing and Materials Standard Procedures. These tests were conducted with samples at an in-situ moisture content of 44% (dry weight basis) as well as elevated moisture contents of 60, 80 and 100% (dry weight basis). Standard Proctor compaction tests yielded a maximum dry density of 600 kg/m3 at 77% optimum moisture content for landfilled MSW compared to the 420 kg/m3 maximum dry density at 70% optimum moisture content for fresh MSW. Compression ratio values for landfilled MSW varied in a close range of 0.19—0.24 with a slight increasing trend with increase in moisture content; however, for fresh waste they were in the close range of 0.24—0.33 with no definitive correlation with moisture content. Based on direct shear tests, drained cohesion and friction angle were varied in the range of 12—64 kPa and 31—35° for landfilled MSW and 31—64 kPa and 26—30° for fresh MSW. Neither cohesion nor friction angle demonstrated any correlation with the moisture content. Based on triaxial CU tests, the average total strength parameters (TSP) were found to be 39 kPa and 12° for landfilled MSW and 32 kPa and 12° for fresh MSW, while effective strength parameters (ESP) were 34 kPa and 23° for landfilled MSW and 32 kPa and 16° for fresh MSW. This study was limited to small-scale laboratory testing using MSW samples with the specimen size relative to the maximum particle size in the range of 1.6 to 2.6; therefore, large-scale laboratory and field studies are recommended to systematically assess the influence of composition, particle size distribution and specimen size on the geotechnical properties of MSW.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Children with Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Authors: Bizari Coin Carvalho Luciane , Prado Lucila F. , Silva Luciana , Medeiros de Almeida Marilaine , Almeida e Silva Tatiana , Ivanoff Lora Mayra , Prado Gilmar F.
Published: May 2009

Two daily school periods are mandatory in Brazil owing to a shortage of academic facilities, which can decrease cognitive performance, especially in children with sleep-disordered breathing. This study aimed to verify the influence of starting time to school on cognition, comparing children with sleep disorders and normal children. Cognition was assessed in 79 children with sleep-disordered breathing, 468 children with nonrespiratory sleep disorders, and 633 normal control children. We analyzed total sleep time, starting time to school (morning or afternoon), and grades. First grade morning students with sleep-disordered breathing had 8.04 higher odds for cognitive dysfunction than normal children. For children with sleep-disordered breathing, second and third grade morning students had higher odds for cognitive dysfunction than those who studied in the afternoon (3.69 and 4.07). Fourth grade morning students had 8.27 higher odds for cognitive dysfunction than first grade children. In conclusion, sleep-disordered breathing, grades, and starting time to school interact to affect cognition in Brazilian children. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:400—404).
Applicability of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory in Slovenia
Authors: Groleger Katja , Vidmar Gaj , Zupan Anton
Published: May 2009

In the process of developmental (re)habilitation, determination of the functional abilities of an individual is an important step. For that we need appropriate measurement instruments. Because we do not have such measurement instruments in Slovenia, we chose the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), translated it, and applied it in daily practice to assess its usefulness and applicability. The purpose of the study was to find out whether the functional abilities of the population of Slovene children evaluated with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory is comparable to the American normative data. We also wanted to assess the possible influence of gender, parent education, community size, and the presence of siblings on children's functional abilities. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory was administered in the form of a structured interview to the parents of 147 healthy children in three age groups (0.5—1 year, 3—3.5 years, and 5—5.5 years) in different health care centers in Slovenia. Data analysis showed significant differences in functional skills and caregiver assistance scale scores when comparing the Slovene sample with the American normative data, particularly in the youngest age group. Slovene children were found consistently to be different (scoring either higher or lower) from American children at comparable ages in several functional skills and caregiver assistance scales. The analysis also confirmed the importance of gender and the presence of siblings for gaining higher scores on some of the functional skills and caregiver assistance scales. The level of parent education did not prove to have a significant impact on the results. Our results suggest that the American normative data are not completely appropriate for reference purposes in Slovenia. The results are in agreement with the findings of other studies, demonstrating the importance of ascertaining intercultural differences. We believe that adaptation and norming of the Slovene version of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory are necessary before using the instrument in clinical practice in our country. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:411—416).
Use and Value of Ordering Emergency Electroencephalograms and Videoelectroencephalographic Monitoring After Business Hours in a Children's Hospital: 1-Year Experience
Authors: Kothare Sanjeev V. , Khurana Divya S. , Valencia Ignacio , Melvin Joseph J. , Legido Agustin
Published: May 2009

Policies of administration, availability, and utility of ordering emergency electroencephalograms (EEGs) during nonbusiness hours vary widely among different EEG laboratories. In an attempt to explore further the importance of performing such emergency procedures in children, we analyzed the utility of not only emergency EEGs but also emergency long-term bedside EEGs and emergency video-EEGs at our institution in 1 year. The number of EEG studies performed in 1 year at our neurophysiology laboratory was 1821: 1212 routine EEGs, 387 24-hour ambulatory EEGs, 81 video-EEGs, and 141 long-term bedside EEGs. The number of emergency studies during the same period of time was 32 (1.8% of the total studies): 18 emergency EEGs, 8 emergency long-term bedside EEGs, and 6 emergency video-EEGs. The reasons for ordering the 18 emergency EEGs included the evaluation of (1) altered mental status ( n = 10), (2) paroxysmal movement (including cluster of seizures) ( n = 6), and (3) prolonged febrile or afebrile seizures prior to being discharged on a weekend ( n = 2). The eight emergency long-term bedside EEGs were done to evaluate (1) altered mental status ( n = 6) and (2) frequently occurring paroxysmal events ( n = 2). Four of the eight emergency long-term bedside EEGs were done after an abnormal emergency EEG. The six emergency video-EEGs were done to evaluate frequently occurring paroxysmal events ( n = 5) and altered mental status ( n = 1). Overall, emergency EEGs and emergency video-EEGs were useful in decision making in 30 of 32 (94%) studies. This might be related to the fact that a neurologist approved all of the studies. Appropriate strategies need to be developed to make this essential service available for patient care. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:416—419).
Epilepsy Surgery Outcome in Children With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Evaluated With α-[11C]Methyl-L-Tryptophan Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Authors: Kagawa Kenji , Chugani Diane C. , Asano Eishi , Juhász Csaba , Muzik Otto , Shah Aashit , Shah Jagdish , Sood Sandeep , Kupsky William J. , Mangner Thomas J. , Chakraborty Pulak K. , Chugani Harry T.
Published: May 2009

Tuberous sclerosis complex is commonly associated with medically intractable seizures. We previously demonstrated that high uptake of α-[11C]methyl-L-tryptophan (AMT) on positron emission tomography (PET) occurs in a subset of epileptogenic tubers consistent with the location of seizure focus. In the present study, we analyzed the surgical outcome of children with tuberous sclerosis complex in relation to AMT PET results. Seventeen children (mean age 4.7 years) underwent epilepsy surgery, guided by long-term videoelectroencephalography (EEG) (including intracranial EEG in 14 cases), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and AMT PET. AMT uptake values of cortical tubers were measured using regions of interest delineated on coregistered MRI and were divided by the value for normal-appearing cortex to obtain an AMT uptake ratio. Based on surgical outcome data, tubers showing increased AMT uptake (uptake ratio greater than 1.00) were classified into three categories: (1) epileptogenic (tubers within an EEG-defined epileptic focus whose resection resulted in seizure-free outcome), (2) nonepileptogenic (tubers that were not resected but the patient became seizure free), or (3) uncertain (all other tubers). Increased AMT uptake was found in 30 tubers of 16 children, and 23 of these tubers (77%) were located in an EEG-defined epileptic focus. The tuber with the highest uptake was located in an ictal EEG onset region in each patient. Increased AMT uptake indicated an epileptic region not suspected by scalp EEG in four cases. Twelve children (71%) achieved seizure-free outcome (median follow-up 15 months). Based on outcome criteria, 19 of 30 tubers (63%) with increased AMT uptake were epileptogenic, and these tubers had significantly higher AMT uptake than the nonepileptogenic ones ( P = .009). Tubers with at least 10% increase of AMT uptake (in nine patients) were all epileptogenic. Using a cutoff threshold of 1.02 for AMT uptake ratio provided an optimal accuracy of 83% for detecting tubers that needed to be resected to achieve a seizure-free outcome. The findings suggest that resection of tubers with increased AMT uptake is highly desirable to achieve seizure-free surgical outcome in children with tuberous sclerosis complex and intractable epilepsy. AMT PET can provide independent complementary information regarding the localization of epileptogenic regions in tuberous sclerosis complex and enhance the confidence of patient selection for successful epilepsy surgery. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:429—438).
A 9-Year-Old Boy with a History of Large Perinatal Stroke, Infantile Spasms, and High Academic Achievement
Authors: Golomb Meredith R. , Carvalho Karen S. , Garg Bhuwan P.
Published: May 2009

The prognosis for intellectual development in children with symptomatic infantile spasms is usually poor. We report a 9-year-old boy with a history of a large, presumed perinatal, left middle cerebral artery infarct discovered when he developed infantile spasms at 6 months of age. The infantile spasms responded to treatment with adrenocorticotropic hormone. He attained cognitive mile-stones at normal times, requiring only speech therapy for dysarthric speech. At 9 years of age, he has seizures and a severe right hemiparesis but is an articulate honor roll student in advanced English classes. The development of infantile spasms after large-branch middle cerebral artery stroke does not always predict future mental retardation. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:444—446).
Anorexia Nervosa in a Child with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Goh Suzanne , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2009

Psychiatric disorders pose a significant burden to the quality of life of individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex and their care-givers. The relationship between the location and distribution of brain abnormalities in tuberous sclerosis complex and specific neuropsychiatric disorders is largely unknown. We present the first case in the literature of a child with tuberous sclerosis complex and anorexia nervosa and discuss the relevance of electroencephalography, magnetic resonance imaging, and neuropsychologic testing. To understand psychiatric disturbances in tuberous sclerosis complex, we must consider each of the following factors: cerebral pathology, seizure history, cognitive impairment, psychosocial stressors, and medications. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:457—460).
Electroencephalography, Doppler Vascular Scanning, and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography in a Child with Hydranencephaly and Intractable Seizures
Authors: Gururaj Aithala , Varady Elizabeth , Sztriha Laszlo , Al-Gazali LI , Al Suhaili AbdulRahim , Gorka Waldemar , Nork Michael
Published: May 2009

In a child with hydranencephaly and refractory seizures, the electroencephalogram showed a flat isoelectric pattern with no significant slow waves or epileptiform activity; cranial computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, Doppler vascular scanning, and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) were done to define the pathogenesis of the seizures. The investigations were suggestive of a lack of significant cortical, subcortical, or thalamic structures with hypoplasia of the vermis and cerebellum. SPECT showed little activity in the base of the brain and cerebellum. The cause of the seizures remained unclear in spite of the investigations. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:446—449).
Postinfectious Myasthenia Gravis: Report of two Children
Authors: Felice Kevin J. , DiMario Francis J. , Conway Stephen R.
Published: May 2009

We report two children with transient myasthenia gravis preceded by viral illnesses. The first is a 5-year-old boy who developed oculobulbar weakness 2 weeks following a varicella-zoster infection. The second is a 4-year-old boy who developed facial diplegia and dysarthria several weeks following a viral pharyngitis. Myasthenia gravis was diagnosed based on the substantial decremental changes on 3 Hz repetitive motor nerve stimulation studies for the first child and on the positive edrophonium test and complete improvement in symptoms during pyridostigmine therapy for both children. In both cases, the symptoms gradually resolved and have not recurred following discontinuation of pyridostigmine. Molecular mimicry between the acetylcholine receptor and viral proteins might provide the nidus for the immune response in this variant of myasthenia gravis. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:441—444.)
The Effects of Change in Spousal Power on Intimate Partner Violence Among Chinese Immigrants
Authors: Jin Xiaochun , Keat Jane E.
Published: May 2009

This study explored how changes in power relations within couples after immigrating from more patriarchal societies contribute to intimate partner violence (IPV). Both subjective decision-making power and objective power bases were examined in Chinese immigrant couples. Batterers and nonviolent men both experienced loss of decision-making power in favor of their spouses postimmigration. For the batterers, this loss appeared materialized by lower gains in education and lack of significant gains in income compared to their spouses. However, it was subjective power loss that was related to the batterers’ attitudes toward IPV. The study highlights the significance of understanding changes in power dynamics postimmigration among immigrants and the importance of distinguishing between subjective and material power to better capture power imbalance within couples.
The Individual as a Moderating Agent of the Long-Term Impact of Sexual Abuse
Authors: Cleverley Kristin , Boyle Michael H.
Published: May 2009

Adverse developmental effects associated with traumatic life experiences such as child sexual abuse will not apply to all individuals exposed. This general population study, compared the health and life circumstances of 45 respondents who spontaneously identified the experience of sexual abuse before age 22 as changing their life for the “better” ( n = 12) versus “worse” ( n = 33); with respondents who reported exposure to child sexual abuse on a standard questionnaire; and respondents not reporting such exposure. Individuals exposed versus non-exposed to sexual abuse experienced more adversity in early life and exhibited lower functioning in adulthood. However, individuals associating sexual abuse with a life change for the “better” exhibited a constellation of features consistent with more stable, supportive home environments and better prospects early on and healthier functioning later-on as adults. Studies are needed to understand the complex pathways between early exposure to sexual abuse and these diverse outcomes.
You Got It, So When Do You Flaunt It?
Authors: Mazzei Julie , O'Brien Erin E.
Published: May 2009

Building on existing literature and disparate field experiences, this article forwards a thesis that status group memberships such as gender are not destiny for building access and rapport during fieldwork. Rather, the female researcher is an active participant in how she is perceived and received by informants, capable of negotiating socially constructed scripts that dominate the field setting to her analytic advantage. Analysis demonstrates how field settings deem various combinations of a researcher's attributes relevant and how researchers can strategically utilize established scripts regarding these status group memberships to ethically gain the trust of informants. Our comparative case study design uses the concept of “deploying gender” to build this more general, intersectional thesis on the role of a researcher's status group memberships for gaining rapport.
Depressive Symptoms and Metabolic Syndrome: Selective Association in Older Women
Authors: Laudisio Alice , Marzetti Emanuele , Pagano Francesco , Pozzi Gino , Bernabei Roberto , Zuccalà Giuseppe
Published: May 2009

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is being increasingly found in older populations. Depressive symptoms are prevalent in elderly populations, and they are associated with adverse outcomes, chiefly cardiovascular. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of the 30-item geriatric depression scale (GDS) score with MetS, as defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program’s Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP-III) criteria, in all 353 participants aged 75+ years living in Tuscania (Italy). Metabolic syndrome was associated with the GDS score in a multivariable linear regression analysis in women (β s= 2.14, 95% CI = 0.14 to 4.14; P = .036), but not in men (β = —.84, 95% CI = —3.17 to 1.49; P = .476), after adjusting. Analysis of the interaction term confirmed (P = .022) that such an association differed according to sex. Metabolic syndrome is independently associated with depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older women. Older women with depression should be prompted to undergo screening for MetS. Conversely, elderly women with MetS should be assessed for affective disorders.
Visualization of Group Members' Participation
Authors: Kimmerle Joachim , Cress Ulrike
Published: May 2009

Previous research has shown that people involved in a computer-mediated information-exchange situation are strongly influenced by the behavior of other participants. In order to avoid being exploited by the other group members, people use the current cooperation level of the rest of the group as an orientation for their own willingness to cooperate. In a highly cooperative group, this leads to a positive development. However, the question arises as to how a negative development can be dealt with, without reinforcing a mutual decline in cooperation. In order to empirically answer this question, the study reported here considers an idea from information-visualization research and experimentally varies information presentation formats. Results show that a cumulative information presentation format supports people's contribution behavior. Moreover, the highest cooperation rate was found for those individuals with a dispositionally high need to engage in social comparison in a situation with a cumulative group feedback format.
Obtaining Large-Scale Funding for Empowerment-Oriented Qualitative Research: A Report From Personal Experience
Authors: Padgett Deborah K. , Henwood Benjamin F.
Published: May 2009

Obtaining funding for qualitative research remains a challenge despite greater openness to methodological pluralism. Such hurdles are presumably compounded when the proposed study employs empowerment theory, rendering it susceptible to charges of elevating ideology over rigor. This article draws on the authors' experience in securing large-scale funding for an empowerment-oriented qualitative study of homeless mentally ill adults. Lessons learned include the importance of weaving empowerment theory into the proposal's “argument,” and infusing empowerment values into study protocols while simultaneously paying close attention to rigorous and transparent methods. Additional benefits accrue from having prior relationships with study sites and being willing to revise and resubmit proposals whenever possible. Though representing a fraction of all externally funded projects in the United States, qualitative research has tremendous untapped potential for success in this competitive arena—success that need not entail surrendering a commitment to empowerment values.
LMI-based Approach of Global Exponential Robust Stability for a Class of Uncertain Distributed Parameter Control Systems with Time-varying Delays
Authors: Linshan Wang  , Yangfan Wang
Published: May 2009

In this paper, the global exponential robust stability analysis problem is considered for a class of uncertain distributed parameter control systems with time-varying delays. The uncertain parameters are generated from modeling errors as well as parameter variations in the systems. The purpose of the problem addressed is to derive some easy-to-test conditions such that the dynamics of the uncertain system is globally exponentially robustly stable. By employing a new Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach is developed to establish the desired sufficient conditions and therefore global exponential robust stability for the uncertain distributed parameter control systems with time-varying delays can be easily checked by utilizing the numerically efficient Matlab LMI toolbox. A numerical example is exploited to show the usefulness of the derived LMI-based stability conditions.
A New Algorithm for Crack Localization in a Rotating Timoshenko Beam
Authors: Masoud Ahmad A. , Al-Said Samer
Published: May 2009

In this paper a new crack localization algorithm based on a mathematical model describing the lateral vibration of a rotating cracked Timoshenko beam is proposed. The Lagrange equation and the assumed mode method are used to derive the model. The localization algorithm utilizes the variation in a single natural frequency of the beam versus a few rotor speed values to detect and localize a crack. The algorithm has different means of checking/reconfirming its crack estimate. This may be used to improve the accuracy of the decision. Also, the effect of rotational speed and crack location on the system’s dynamical characteristics is investigated using the derived mathematical model. The results are compared with those obtained from a three-dimensional finite-element analysis. Good agreement is observed between the two sets of results. Finally, the reliability of the identification algorithm is established using the data obtained from the finite-element analysis.
Fuzzy Logic Control of Vibrations of a Light Rail Transport Vehicle in Use in Istanbul Traffic
Authors: Guclu Rahmi , Metin Muzaffer
Published: May 2009

A high standard service must be provided in rail transportation for passenger safety and comfort. With this need in mind, data are collected on vibration problems in rail systems and control. In this study, a rail vehicle system in use in Istanbul traffic is studied and a physical model in the form of a 22-degrees-of-freedom half light rail transport vehicle and differential equations created for analyzing vibrations. A computer simulation is also been carried out. In the simulation, real parameters for the modeled vehicle are employed. In an effort to minimize displacement and acceleration of the vibrations obtained in the end of simulations based on time and frequency domains, a fuzzy logic controller is used to actively control vibrations in the simulation environment.
Localization in the Vibration of an Axially Loaded Two-span Weakened Column
Authors: Challamel Noël , Casandjian Charles , Lanos Christophe
Published: May 2009

This paper is devoted to the dynamic analysis of two connected beam columns with a variation of the bending connection and minor perturbations of the length of each span. The point of reduced bending stiffness represented by a rotational spring may result from a crack. This rotational spring can also be associated with a semi-rigid connection in the field of steel or composite structures, for instance. The dynamics of this axially loaded two-span weakened column appears to exhibit strong localization for small values of stiffness of the rotational spring. The vibration mode shapes indicate a strong confinement of the vibration level to a fraction of the column. A quantitative criterion of localization is established and is correlated to well-known phenomena such as curve veering effect or close eigenvalues. Such a result is quite encouraging as localization is strongly associated with the flexibility values of the rotational spring. When considering the open crack analogy, localization only appears for severely damaged columns. It can then be understood as an indicator of the damage level of the global structure.
Load Identification Using a Modified Modal Filter Technique
Authors: Mendrok Krzysztof , Uhl Tadeusz
Published: May 2009

In this paper the authors propose a modification to the known force identification procedure based on modal filtration. The modification consists of replacing the modal vectors with the Ritz vectors. The latter seem to be more accurate because they take into account the static deformation of the structure and are less sensitive to truncation error. After the main idea- the algorithm modification- is presented, it is verified and then compared with the original solution. Two sets of data are used for this purpose, firstly simulation data from the numerical model, and then physical data recorded during a laboratory experiment.
The Use of a Self-Directed Learning Program to Provide Introductory Training in Pivotal Response Treatment to Parents of Children With Autism
Authors: Nefdt Nicolette , Koegel Robert , Singer George , Gerber Michael
Published: May 2009

There is increasing demand for access to effective interventions for families who have children with autism. Self-directed learning models have been successfully used with other populations as a way to reduce the service-need discrepancy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate, through a randomized clinical trial, whether the use of a self-directed learning program could result in changes in behavior for parents and their children with autism. Results indicated significant differences between treatment and control groups at posttest on all of the dependent measures. Furthermore, all of the parents who completed the self-directed learning program reported high ratings of satisfaction. The data suggest the efficacy and effectiveness of a self-directed learning program to serve as an initial step toward providing intervention for parents with children with autism.
Surgical Treatment Options for Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee
Authors: Pascual-Garrido Cecilia , McNickle Allison G. , Cole Brian J.
Published: May 2009

Osteochondritis dissecans of the knee is identified with increasing frequency in the young adult patient. Left untreated, osteochondritis dissecans can lead to the development of osteoarthritis at an early age, resulting in progressive pain and disability. Treatment of osteochondritis dissecans may include nonoperative or operative intervention. Surgical treatment is indicated mainly by lesion stability, physeal closure, and clinical symptoms. Reestablishing the joint surface, maximizing the osteochondral biologic environment, achieving rigid fixation, and ensuring early motion are paramount to fragment preservation. In cases where the fragment is not amenable to preservation, the treatment may include complex reconstruction procedures, such as marrow stimulation, osteochondral autograft, fresh osteochondral allograft, and autologous chondrocyte implantation. Treatment goals include pain relief, restoration of function, and the prevention of secondary osteoarthritis.
Optimal Use of 3D and 4D Transvaginal Sonography in Localizing the Essure® Contraceptive Device
Authors: Oliveira Mario , Johnson Dixie , Switalski Pamela , Taraschi Sharon , Canet Nuvia , Roberts Dawn , Oliveira Brian
Published: May 2009

Current protocol in the United States does not include sonographic imaging for assessing proper placement of the Essure ® microinsert coils. An alternative to the current requirement of hysterosalpingography for imaging the metallic coils is described using 3D and 4D multiplanar imaging. Studies showing the advantages of using optimal sonographic techniques over other imaging modalities are shown to be less invasive, simpler, and with fewer risks. A review of 3D and 4D sonography reveals advantages in imaging the Essure microdevices.This article explores optimum techniques for localizing the Essure microdevices with 3D and 4D transvaginal sonography.
Unraveling a novel Rac1-mediated signaling pathway that regulates cofilin dephosphorylation and secretion in thrombin-stimulated platelets
Authors: Pandey Dharmendra , Goyal Pankaj , Dwivedi Suman , Siess Wolfgang
Published: May 2009

In platelets stimulated by thrombin to secrete and aggregate, cofilin is rapidly dephosphorylated leading to its activation. Cofilin by severing existing actin filaments and stimulating F-actin polymerization on newly created barbed ends dynamizes the actin cytoskeleton. We previously found that cofilin dephosphorylation is Ca2+-dependent and occurs upstream of degranulation in stimulated platelets. We report now in thrombin-stimulated platelets that Rac1 and class II PAKs (PAK4/5/6) were rapidly (within 5 seconds) activated, whereas PAK1/2 (class I PAKs) phosphorylation was slower. The Rac1-specific inhibitor NSC23766 blocked phosphorylation of class II PAKs, but not PAK1/2. Moreover, inhibition of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase calcineurin inhibited Rac1 activation and class II PAKs phosphorylation. Prevention of Rac1 activation by calcineurin inhibition or NSC23766 also blocked cofilin dephosphorylation and platelet granule secretion indicating that a calcineurin/Rac1/class II PAKs pathway regulates cofilin dephosphorylation leading to secretion. We further found that PI3-kinases were activated downstream of Rac1, but were not involved in regulating cofilin dephosphorylation and secretion in thrombin-stimulated platelets. Our study unravels a Ca2+-dependent pathway of secretion in stimulated platelets as a signaling pathway linking Rac1 activation to actin dynamics: calcineurin→Rac1→class II PAKs→cofilin activation. We further demonstrate that this pathway is separate and independent of the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway mediating secretion.
Tumor antigen–specific CD8 T cells infiltrating the tumor express high levels of PD-1 and are functionally impaired
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Mojgan , Johnson Laura A. , Heemskerk Bianca , Wunderlich John R. , Dudley Mark E. , White Donald E. , Rosenberg Steven A.
Published: May 2009

Tumor antigen–specific T cells are found within melanomas, yet tumors continue to grow. Although the tumor microenvironment is thought to influence the suppression of tumor-reactive T cells, the underlying mechanisms for this T-cell dysfunction are not clear. Here, we report that the majority of tumor infiltrating T lymphocytes (TIL), including MART-1/Melan-A melanoma antigen–specific CD8 T cells, predominantly expressed PD-1, in contrast to T cells in normal tissues and peripheral blood T lymphocytes (PBL). PD-1+ TIL expressed CTLA-4 and Ki-67, markers that were not expressed by PD-1− TIL and T cells in the normal tissues and PBL. Moreover, PD-1+ TIL were primarily HLA-DR+ and CD127−, in contrast to PD-1− TIL. Effector cytokine production by PD-1+ TIL was impaired compared with PD-1− TIL and PBL. Collectively, the phenotypic and functional characterizations of TIL revealed a significantly higher frequency and level of PD-1 expression on TIL compared with normal tissue T-cell infiltrates and PBL, and PD-1 expression correlated with an exhausted phenotype and impaired effector function. These findings suggest that the tumor microenvironment can lead to up-regulation of PD-1 on tumor-reactive T cells and contribute to impaired antitumor immune responses.
Megakaryocyte impairment by eptifibatide-induced antibodies causes prolonged thrombocytopenia
Authors: Greinacher Andreas , Fuerll Birgitt , Zinke Heike , Müllejans Bernd , Krüger William , Michetti Noemi , Motz Wolfgang , Schwertz Hansjörg
Published: May 2009

Glycoprotein (GP) IIbIIIa inhibitors are used in the treatment of acute coronary syndromes. Transient immune-mediated acute thrombocytopenia is a recognized side effect of GPIIbIIIa inhibitors. We provide evidence that GPIIbIIIa inhibitor-induced antibodies can affect megakaryocytes in the presence of eptifibatide. In a patient with acute coronary syndrome, acute thrombocytopenia occurred after a second exposure to eptifibatide 20 days after the initial treatment. Despite the short half-life of eptifibatide (t1/2 = 2 hours), thrombocytopenia less than 5 × 109/L and gastrointestinal and skin hemorrhage persisted for 4 days. Glycoprotein-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed eptifibatide-dependent, GPIIbIIIa-specific antibodies. Bone marrow examination showed predominance of early megakaryocyte stages, and platelet transfusion resulted in an abrupt platelet count increase. Viability of cultured cord blood–derived megakaryocytes was reduced in the presence of eptifibatide and patient IgG fraction. These findings can be explained by impaired megakaryocytopoiesis complicating anti-GPIIbIIIa antibody-mediated immune thrombocytopenia. This mechanism may also apply to some patients with autoimmune thrombocytopenia.
Identification of coagulation factor (F)X binding sites on the adenovirus serotype 5 hexon: effect of mutagenesis on FX interactions and gene transfer
Authors: Alba Raul , Bradshaw Angela C. , Parker Alan L. , Bhella David , Waddington Simon N. , Nicklin Stuart A. , van Rooijen Nico , Custers Jerome , Goudsmit Jaap , Barouch Dan H. , McVey John H. , Baker Andrew H.
Published: May 2009

Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of coagulation factor X (FX) in adenovirus (Ad) serotype 5–mediated liver transduction in vivo. FX binds to the adenovirus hexon hypervariable regions (HVRs). Here, we perform a systematic analysis of FX binding to Ad5 HVRs 5 and 7, identifying domains and amino acids critical for this interaction. We constructed a model of the Ad5-FX interaction using crystallographic and cryo-electron microscopic data to identify contact points. Exchanging Ad5 HVR5 or HVR7 from Ad5 to Ad26 (which does not bind FX) diminished FX binding as analyzed by surface plasmon resonance, gene delivery in vitro, and liver transduction in vivo. Exchanging Ad5-HVR5 for Ad26-HVR5 produced deficient virus maturation. Importantly, defined mutagenesis of just 2 amino acids in Ad5-HVR5 circumvented this and was sufficient to block liver gene transfer. In addition, mutation of 4 amino acids in Ad5-HVR7 or a single mutation at position 451 also blocked FX-mediated effects in vitro and in vivo. We therefore define the regions and amino acids on the Ad5 hexon that bind with high affinity to FX thereby better defining adenovirus infectivity pathways. These vectors may be useful for gene therapy applications where evasion of liver transduction is a prerequisite.
CURE-Chloroplast: A chloroplast C-to-U RNA editing predictor for seed plants
Authors: Du Pufeng , Jia Liyan , Li Yanda
Published: May 2009

Background

RNA editing is a type of post-transcriptional modification of RNA and belongs to the class of mechanisms that contribute to the complexity of transcriptomes. C-to-U RNA editing is commonly observed in plant mitochondria and chloroplasts. The in vivo mechanism of recognizing C-to-U RNA editing sites is still unknown. In recent years, many efforts have been made to computationally predict C-to-U RNA editing sites in the mitochondria of seed plants, but there is still no algorithm available for C-to-U RNA editing site prediction in the chloroplasts of seed plants.

Results

In this paper, we extend our algorithm CURE, which can accurately predict the C-to-U RNA editing sites in mitochondria, to predict C-to-U RNA editing sites in the chloroplasts of seed plants. The algorithm achieves over 80% sensitivity and over 99% specificity. We implement the algorithm as an online service called CURE-Chloroplast http://bioinfo.au.tsinghua.edu.cn/pure.

Conclusion

CURE-Chloroplast is an online service for predicting the C-to-U RNA editing sites in the chloroplasts of seed plants. The online service allows the processing of entire chloroplast genome sequences. Since CURE-Chloroplast performs very well, it could be a helpful tool in the study of C-to-U RNA editing in the chloroplasts of seed plants.
Infrastructure for the life sciences: design and implementation of the UniProt website
Authors: Jain Eric , Bairoch Amos , Duvaud Severine , Phan Isabelle , Redaschi Nicole , Suzek Baris E , Martin Maria J , McGarvey Peter , Gasteiger Elisabeth
Published: May 2009

Background

The UniProt consortium was formed in 2002 by groups from the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) and the Protein Information Resource (PIR) at Georgetown University, and soon afterwards the website http://www.uniprot.org was set up as a central entry point to UniProt resources. Requests to this address were redirected to one of the three organisations' websites. While these sites shared a set of static pages with general information about UniProt, their pages for searching and viewing data were different. To provide users with a consistent view and to cut the cost of maintaining three separate sites, the consortium decided to develop a common website for UniProt. Following several years of intense development and a year of public beta testing, the http://www.uniprot.org domain was switched to the newly developed site described in this paper in July 2008.

Description

The UniProt consortium is the main provider of protein sequence and annotation data for much of the life sciences community. The http://www.uniprot.org website is the primary access point to this data and to documentation and basic tools for the data. These tools include full text and field-based text search, similarity search, multiple sequence alignment, batch retrieval and database identifier mapping. This paper discusses the design and implementation of the new website, which was released in July 2008, and shows how it improves data access for users with different levels of experience, as well as to machines for programmatic access.

http://www.uniprot.org/ is open for both academic and commercial use. The site was built with open source tools and libraries. Feedback is very welcome and should be sent to help@uniprot.org.

Conclusion

The new UniProt website makes accessing and understanding UniProt easier than ever. The two main lessons learned are that getting the basics right for such a data provider website has huge benefits, but is not trivial and easy to underestimate, and that there is no substitute for using empirical data throughout the development process to decide on what is and what is not working for your users.
Big mountains but small barriers: Population genetic structure of the Chinese wood frog (Rana chensinensis) in the Tsinling and Daba Mountain region of northern China
Authors: Zhan Aibin , Li Cheng , Fu Jinzhong
Published: May 2009

Background

Amphibians in general are poor dispersers and highly philopatric, and landscape features often have important impacts on their population genetic structure and dispersal patterns. Numerous studies have suggested that genetic differentiation among amphibian populations are particularly pronounced for populations separated by mountain ridges. The Tsinling Mountain range of northern China is a major mountain chain that forms the boundary between the Oriental and Palearctic zoogeographic realms. We studied the population structure of the Chinese wood frog (Rana chensinensis) to test whether the Tsinling Mountains and the nearby Daba Mountains impose major barriers to gene flow.

Results

Using 13 polymorphic microsatellite DNA loci, 523 individuals from 12 breeding sites with geographical distances ranging from 2.6 to 422.8 kilometers were examined. Substantial genetic diversity was detected at all sites with an average of 25.5 alleles per locus and an expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.504 to 0.855, and two peripheral populations revealed significantly lower genetic diversity than the central populations. In addition, the genetic differentiation among the central populations was statistically significant, with pairwiseFSTvalues ranging from 0.0175 to 0.1625 with an average of 0.0878. Furthermore, hierarchical AMOVA analysis attributed most genetic variation to the within-population component, and the between-population variation can largely be explained by isolation-by-distance. None of the putative barriers detected from genetic data coincided with the location of the Tsinling Mountains.

Conclusion

The Tsinling and Daba Mountains revealed no significant impact on the population genetic structure ofR. chensinensis. High population connectivity and extensive juvenile dispersal may account for the significant, but moderate differentiation between populations. Chinese wood frogs are able to use streams as breeding sites at high elevations, which may significantly contribute to the diminishing barrier effect of mountain ridges. Additionally, a significant decrease in genetic diversity in the peripheral populations supports Mayr's central-peripheral population hypothesis.
Hyperglycemia in bacterial meningitis: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Schut Ewout S , Westendorp Willeke F , de Gans Jan , Kruyt Nyika D , Spanjaard Lodewijk , Reitsma Johannes B , van de Beek Diederik
Published: May 2009

Background

Hyperglycemia has been associated with unfavorable outcome in several disorders, but few data are available in bacterial meningitis. We assessed the incidence and significance of hyperglycemia in adults with bacterial meningitis.

Methods

We collected data prospectively between October 1998 and April 2002, on 696 episodes of community-acquired bacterial meningitis, confirmed by culture of CSF in patients >16 years. Patients were dichotomized according to blood glucose level on admission. A cutoff random non-fasting blood glucose level of 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL) was used to define hyperglycemia, and a cutoff random non-fasting blood glucose level of 11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) was used to define severe hyperglycemia. Unfavorable outcome was defined on the Glasgow outcome scale as a score <5. We also evaluated characteristics of patients with a preadmission diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.

Results

69% of patients were hyperglycemic and 25% severely hyperglycemic on admission. Compared with non-hyperglycemic patients, hyperglycemia was related with advanced age (median, 55 yrs vs. 44 yrs, P < 0.0001), preadmission diagnosis of diabetes (9% vs. 3%, P = 0.005), and distant focus of infection (37% vs. 28%, P = 0.02). They were more often admitted in coma (16% vs. 8%; P = 0.004) and with pneumococcal meningitis (55% vs. 42%, P = 0.007). These differences remained significant after exclusion of patients with known diabetes. Hyperglycemia was related with unfavorable outcome in a univariate analysis but this relation did not remain robust in a multivariate analysis. Factors predictive for neurologic compromise were related with higher blood glucose levels, whereas factors predictive for systemic compromise were related with lower blood glucose levels. Only a minority of severely hyperglycemic patients were known diabetics (19%). The vast majority of these known diabetic patients had meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae (67%) or Listeria monocytogenes (13%) and they were at high risk for unfavorable outcome (52%).

Conclusion

The majority of patients with bacterial meningitis have hyperglycemic blood glucose levels on admission. Hyperglycemia can be explained by a physical stress reaction, the central nervous system insult leading to disturbed blood-glucose regulation mechanisms, and preponderance of diabetics for pneumococcal meningitis. Patients with diabetes and bacterial meningitis are at high risk for unfavorable outcome.
δ-ALA-D activity is a reliable marker for oxidative stress in bone marrow transplant patients
Authors: Gonçalves Thissiane L , Benvegnú Dalila M , Bonfanti Gabriela , Frediani Andressa V , Rocha João Batista T
Published: May 2009

Background

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is often used in the treatment of various diseases. Before BMT, patients are submitted to a conditioning regimen (CR), which consists of the administration of high doses of chemotherapy. The action of many cytostatic drugs involves the overproduction of reactive oxygen species, which together with inadequate antioxidant protection can lead to oxidative stress and this has been implicated in the etiology of various diseases. The objectives of this study were to look for evidence of oxidative stress and also to analyze δ-Aminolevulinato dehydratase (δ-ALA-D) activity as a possible marker of oxidative stress in autologous and allogeneic BMT patients.

Methods

Lipid peroxidation, vitamin C and thiol group levels as well as catalase, superoxide dismutase and δ-ALA-D activity were determined in 37 healthy controls, 13 patients undergoing autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and 24 patients undergoing allogeneic BMT.

Results

We found that patients presented signs of oxidative stress before they were submitted to BMT, during CR and up to 20 days after BMT. There was a decrease in enzymatic and non enzymatic antioxidant defenses, in δ-ALA-D activity, and an increase in lipoperoxidation in the blood of both patient groups.

Conclusion

This study has indicated that autologous and allogeneic BMT are associated with oxidative stress. Moreover, blood δ-ALA-D activity seems to be an additional biomarker of oxidative stress in BMT patients.