bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flame‐retarding effects of dialkyl‐p‐vinylbenzyl phosphonates in copolymers with acrylonitrile
Authors: Wyman Paul , Crook Vincent , Ebdon John , Hunt Barry , Joseph Paul
Published: December 2005

Several dialkyl‐p‐vinylbenzyl phosphonates have been synthesized and free‐radically copolymerized with acrylonitrile to give copolymers with phosphorus contents ranging from 1 to 14 wt%. The flammability and thermal degradation characteristics of these copolymers have been assayed by limiting oxygen index and thermogravimetric methods. It has been found that, despite the negative effect of the vinylbenzyl entity upon the stability of polyacrylonitrile, the incorporation of a small percentage of phosphonate has a significant effect on retarding combustion of the copolymers. The differing effects of the polymerizable function (backbone group) and the pendant phosphonate on thermal stability and flame retardance are deconvoluted by comparison of the behaviours of the acrylonitrile–dialkyl‐p‐vinylbenzyl phosphonate copolymers with the corresponding acrylonitrile–styrene copolymers. The increased flammability and reduced char formation in acrylonitrile–styrene copolymers, compared with those of polyacrylonitrile itself, are shown to recover in the presence of pendant phosphorus groups, and the particular effects of these groups are discussed. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Isothermal cure kinetics and thermodynamics of an epoxy–nickel–diamine system
Authors: Ghaemy M , Rostami AA , Omrani A
Published: December 2005

A study was conducted on the cure kinetics and thermodynamics of a nickel‐containing epoxy polymer obtained by the polymerization of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) with a nickel catalyst of diethylenetriamine (Dien) under isothermal condition. The apparent activation energy (Ea) was determined for the whole conversion range by the model‐free iso‐conversional approach. Isothermal kinetic parameters were estimated using an autocatalytic cure mechanism proposed by Kamal. The model gives a good description of curing kinetics at various temperatures prior to the onset of vitrification. Using the rate constants from the kinetic analysis and transition state (TS) theory, thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs free energy changes were also calculated. The thermodynamic functions were shown to be very sensitive parameters for evaluation of the cure reaction. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Phase morphology of functionalized polyester polyurethanes. Effect of functional group concentration
Authors: Čulin Jelena , Šmit Ivan , Veksli Zorica , Anžlovar Alojz , Žigon Majda
Published: December 2005

Segmented polyester polyurethanes (PU) were prepared based on polycaprolactone as a soft segment and a hard segment containing isophoronediisocyanate and chain extenders 2,2′‐bis‐(hydroxymethyl) propionic acid and 1,4‐butanediol with different molar ratios. The changes of crystallinity and morphology due to the incorporation of carboxylic functional groups in the hard segment were monitored by wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, optical microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The concentration of functional groups varied from 0 to 0.45 mmol g−1. The phase separation, the degree of crystallinity and the size of spherulites depend on the interactions imposed by functional groups. A critical level of the concentration of functional groups (0.25 mmol g−1) at which the crystallizability reaches its maximum was observed. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Ethylene polymerization using a novel MgCl2/SiO2‐supported Ziegler–Natta catalyst
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Wang Li , Gao Haoqi , Wang Wenqin , Wang Wei , Zhao Zhenrong , Sun Tianxu , Feng Lianfang
Published: December 2005

A novel MgCl2/SiO2‐supported Ziegler–Natta catalyst was prepared using a new one‐pot ball milling method. Using this catalyst, polyethylenes with different molecular weight distributions were synthesized. The effects of the [Si]/[Mg] ratio, polymerization temperature and [Al]/[Ti] ratio on the catalytic activity, the kinetic behaviour and the molecular weight and the polydispersity of the resultant polymer were studied. It was found that the polydispersity index of the polymer could be adjusted over a wide range of 5–30 through regulating the [Si]/[Mg] ratio and polymerization temperature, and especially when the [Si]/[Mg] ratio was 1.70, the polydispersity index could reach over 25. This novel bi‐supported Ziegler–Natta catalyst is thus useful for preparing polyethylene with a required molecular weight distribution using current equipment and technological processes. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Microstructure and thermal properties of ethylene‐(vinyl acetate) copolymer/rectorite nanocomposites
Authors: Fang Pengfei , Chen Zhe , Zhang Shaoping , Wang Shaojie , Wang Liying , Feng Jiwen
Published: December 2005

Ethylene‐(vinyl acetate) copolymer (EVA)/rectorite nanocomposites were prepared by direct melt extrusion of EVA and organo‐rectorite. The microstructures and thermal properties of EVA nanocomposites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), solid‐state nuclear magnetic spectroscopy, positron annihilation spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis techniques. XRD pattern and SEM images show that the intercalated structure is formed and rectorite is finely dispersed in EVA matrix. When organoclay content of the hybrid increases to 7.5 wt%, or pristine rectorite was used instead of organoclay, the crystallization behavior of EVA nanocomposite changes greatly and the ratio of the monoclinic to orthorhombic crystal increases significantly. The relative fractional free volume of the nanocomposite decreases with the increasing organo‐rectorite content, and the values of damping factor (tan δ) for all nanocomposites are lower than that of pure EVA. These facts illuminate that intercalated structure restricts the segment motion and mobilization of polymer chain. TGA results of EVA nanocomposites in air indicate that deacylation of EVA is accelerated because of the catalytic effect and the thermal degradation of the main chain is delayed owing to the barrier effect of silicate layers. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Time‐resolved luminescence anisotropy studies of the relaxation behaviour of polymers. 2. On the intramolecular mobility of poly(butyl methacrylate) in dilute solution
Authors: Soutar Ian , Swanson Linda
Published: December 2005

Time‐resolved anisotropy measurements (TRAMS) have been used to study the relaxation behaviour of poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) in dilute solution both in toluene and dichloromethane. Various fluorescent labels (residues from copolymerisation of BMA with ca 0.3 mol% of acenaphthylene (ACE), 1‐vinylnaphthalene (VN), 1‐naphthylmethyl methacrylate, 9‐phenyanthrylmethyl methacrylate, and 9‐anthrylmethyl methacrylate (AMMA)) were used. It was found that, as expected, ACE and VN provided information on the segmental motion of PBMA. The fluorescence anisotropies of the various ester labels reflected the influence of motion, independent of that of the PBMA backbone, upon the observed relaxation behaviour. The motion of AMMA, in particular, could be resolved, with confidence, into components corresponding to segmental relaxation of both the polymer and ester group motion. Clearly, in this system, motion of the labelled ester is not fully cooperative with that of the polymer backbone, even at the high test frequencies to which these fluorescence measurements correspond. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Photoinitiated cationic polymerization of urethane vinyl ether crystalline monomers
Authors: Zeng Zhaohua , Yang Jianwen , Pang Laixing , Chen Yonglie
Published: December 2005

Photoinitiated cationic polymerization of crystalline monomers based on urethane vinyl ether has been investigated by means of differential photocalorimetry (DPC). The crystalline monomers in the melt state polymerized rapidly by exposure to UV light in the presence of a cationic photoinitiator such as an iodonium salt, sulfonium salt or iron arene salt. The kinetics of the cationic photopolymerization process were studied by following kp[M+] as a function of conversion. High conversions, of around 90 %, were obtained for most of the systems investigated. The efficiency of the cationic photoinitiators in initiating the polymerization of the vinyl ether monomers was in the order: iodonium salt > iron arene salt > sulfonium salt. Monomers modified with different saturated alcohols had different activities in photopolymerization, although they all carry the same functional group, i.e. vinyl ether. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of amphiphilic poly(methyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(methacrylic acid) diblock copolymers by atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Yuan Jun , Shi Yan , Fu Zhifeng , Yang Wantai
Published: December 2005

Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of 1‐(butoxy)ethyl methacrylate (BEMA) was carried out using CuBr/2,2′‐bipyridyl complex as catalyst and 2‐bromo‐2‐methyl‐propionic acid ester as initiator. The number average molecular weight of the obtained polymers increased with monomer conversion, and molecular weight distributions were unimodal throughout the reaction and shifted toward higher molecular weights. Using poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with a bromine atom at the chain end, which was prepared by ATRP, as the macro‐initiator, a diblock copolymer PMMA‐block‐poly [1‐(butoxy)ethyl methacrylate] (PMMA‐b‐PBEMA) has been synthesized by means of ATRP of BEMA. The amphiphilic diblock copolymer PMMA‐block‐poly(methacrylic acid) can be further obtained very easily by hydrolysis of PMMA‐b‐PBEMA under mild acidic conditions. The molecular weight and the structure of the above‐mentioned polymers were characterized with gel permeation chromatography, infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Investigations of parasitic shunt resistance in n‐type buried contact solar cells
Authors: Guo Jiun‐Hua , Cousins Peter J. , Cotter Jeffrey E.
Published: December 2005

It has been shown thatn‐type laser‐grooved buried contact solar cells exhibit a high‐efficiency potential, both on interdigitated backside buried contact (IBBC) and double‐sided buried contact (DSBC) cell structures. As the IBBC solar cell contains heavily doped, compensated regions, the shunt mechanisms are more complicated, and are different from those of the conventional front‐collecting‐junction solar cells. In this paper, several shunting mechanisms hindering the performances of then‐type buried contact solar cells are investigated and discussed. The main shunting routes inn‐type IBBC solar cells are concluded as follows: (1) the emitter contact metal touching the n‐type substrate, which is either due to nonuniform boron deposition or diffusion‐induced misfit dislocations; (2) the base contact metal touching thep+emitter, attributed to either the phosphorus groove diffusion being unable to compensate for the boron emitter diffusion, or the junction depth located in the diffusion overlap regions not deep enough to prevent nickel from spiking through the groove diffusion. The shunt resistance of the IBBC cells increased by more than two orders of magnitude after eliminating the shunt mechanisms discussed in this study. This led to an improvement in fill factor from 0·71–0·73 to 0·74–0·76, and an increase of average absolute efficiency of more than 0·65%. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A model for the series–parallel association of photovoltaic devices
Authors: Alonso‐García M. C. , Ruíz J. M.
Published: December 2005

This work presents a method to obtain the one‐exponential model parameters of a series–parallel association of photovoltaic (PV) devices. From the linear expressions of the I–V characteristic in short‐circuit and open‐circuit zones, simple equations for association model parameters are obtained based on cell parameters. In order to validate the model, measurements have been performed in the 33 cells of a conventional PV module previously modified to have access to its cells, either individually or associated. Series and parallel proposed models have been applied to measurements, supposing all module cells are connected either in series or in parallel. Good approximations have been found in both cases. The method here proposed supplies a useful formulation that can be used in simulation programmes and array calculations. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
13·9%‐efficient CdTe polycrystalline thin‐film solar cells with an infrared transmission of ∼50%
Authors: Wu X. , Zhou J. , Duda A. , Keane J. C. , Gessert T.A. , Yan Y. , Noufi R.
Published: December 2005

To fabricate a high‐efficiency polycrystalline thin‐film tandem cell, the most critical work is to make a high‐efficiency top cell ( > 15%) with high bandgap (Eg = 1·5–1·8 eV) and high transmission (T > 70%) in the near‐infrared (NIR) wavelength region. The CdTe cell is one of the candidates for the top cell, because CdTe state‐of‐the‐art single‐junction devices with efficiencies of more than 16% are available, although its bandgap (1·48 eV) is slightly lower for a top cell in a current‐matched dual‐junction device. In this paper, we focus on the development of a: (1) thin, low‐bandgap CuxTe transparent back‐contact; and (2) modified CdTe device structure, including three novel materials: cadmium stannate transparent conducting oxide (TCO), ZnSnOxbuffer layer, and nanocrystalline CdS:O window layer developed at NREL, as well as the high‐quality CdTe film, to improve transmission in the NIR region while maintaining high device efficiency. We have achieved an NREL‐confirmed 13·9%‐efficient CdTe transparent solar cell with an infrared transmission of ∼50% and a CdTe/CIS polycrystalline mechanically stacked thin‐film tandem cell with an NREL‐confirmed efficiency of 15·3%. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systematized procedure for parameter characterization of a variable‐speed drive used in photovoltaic pumping applications
Authors: Brito A. U. , Zilles R.
Published: December 2005

This work presents a systematized procedure for the parameter characterization of a variable‐speed drive (VSD) for use in applications to photovoltaic pumping systems (PVPS). The study focuses on the process of the PID controller's tuning of the VSD, in order to optimize the configuration. In this work, three methods of tuning are analyzed and the results show that the methods based on the system's response in open‐loop are the most suitable, as well as the use of only the integral proportional control actions (PI). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐efficiency (19%) screen‐printed textured cells on low‐resistivity float‐zone silicon with high sheet‐resistance emitters
Authors: Hilali Mohamed M. , Nakayashiki Kenta , Ebong Abasifreke , Rohatgi Ajeet
Published: December 2005

High‐efficiency 4 cm2screen‐printed (SP) textured cells were fabricated on 100 Ω/sq emitters using a rapid single‐step belt furnace firing process. The high contact quality resulted in a low series resistance of 0·79 Ωcm2, high shunt resistance of 48 836 Ωcm2, a low junction leakage current of 18·5 nA/cm2(n2 = 2) yielding a high fill factor (FF) of 0·784 on 100 Ω/sq emitter. A low resistivity (0·6 Ωcm) FZ Si was used for the base to enhance the contribution of the high sheet‐resistance emitter without appreciably sacrificing the bulk lifetime. This resulted in a 19% efficient (confirmed at NREL) SP 4 cm2cell on textured FZ silicon with SP contacts and single‐layer antireflection coating. This is apparently higher in performance than any other previously reported cell using standard screen‐printing approaches (i.e., single‐step firing and grid metallization). Detailed cell characterization and device modeling were performed to extract all the important device parameters of this 19% SP Si cell and provide guidelines for achieving 20% SP Si cells. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geochemistry and source waters of rock glacier outflow, Colorado Front Range
Authors: Williams M. W. , Knauf M. , Caine N. , Liu F. , Verplanck P. L.
Published: December 2005

We characterize the seasonal variation in the geochemical and isotopic content of the outflow of the Green Lake 5 rock glacier (RG5), located in the Green Lakes Valley of the Colorado Front Range, USA. Between June and August, the geochemical content of rock glacier outflow does not appear to differ substantially from that of other surface waters in the Green Lakes Valley. Thus, for this alpine ecosystem at this time of year there does not appear to be large differences in water quality among rock glacier outflow, glacier and blockslope discharge, and discharge from small alpine catchments. However, in September concentrations of Mg2+ in the outflow of the rock glacier increased to more than 900 µeq L−1 compared to values of less than 40 µeq L−1 at all the other sites, concentrations of Ca2+ were greater than 4,000 µeq L−1 compared to maximum values of less than 200 µeq L−1 at all other sites, and concentrations of SO reached 7,000 µeq L−1, compared to maximum concentrations below 120 µeq L−1 at the other sites. Inverse geochemical modelling suggests that dissolution of pyrite, epidote, chlorite and minor calcite as well as the precipitation of silica and goethite best explain these elevated concentrations of solutes in the outflow of the rock glacier. Three component hydrograph separation using end–member mixing analysis shows that melted snow comprised an average of 30% of RG5 outflow, soil water 32%, and base flow 38%. Snow was the dominant source water in June, soil water was the dominant water source in July, and base flow was the dominant source in September. Enrichment of δ18O from −10‰ in the outflow of the rock glacier compared to −20‰ in snow and enrichment of deuterium excess from + 17.5‰ in rock glacier outflow compared to + 11‰ in snow, suggests that melt of internal ice that had undergone multiple melt/freeze episodes was the dominant source of base flow. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
T‐cell recognition of a prostate specific antigen is not sufficient to induce prostate tissue destruction
Authors: Lees Jason R. , Charbonneau Bridget , Hayball John D. , Diener Kerrilyn , Brown Michael , Matusik Robert , Cohen Michael B. , Ratliff Timothy L.
Published: December 2005

METHODS

The ability of CD8+ T‐cells to induce prostate inflammation was examined using a prostate ovalbumin expressing transgenic mouse (POET) and/or adoptive transfer of T‐cell receptor (TCR) transgenic T‐cells (OT‐I) that specifically recognize ovalbumin. Localization of inflammatory cells to prostate tissue was examined following T‐cell activation via endogenous prostatic antigen, recombinant type 5 adenovirus carrying the gene coding ovalbumin (Ad5‐mOVA), or adoptive transfer of in vitro antigen stimulated OT‐I cells.

RESULTS

Ovalbumin specific OT‐I cells were activated by autologous prostate antigen and trafficked to the prostate, but did not induce inflammation unless present in overwhelming numbers (∼65% of CD8+ T‐cells). Activation of antigen specific CD8+ T‐cells in vitro (peptide pulsed antigen presenting cells) or in vivo (Ad5‐mOVA) induced transitory prostate inflammation, without induction of prostate pathology, regardless of CD4+ T‐cell availability. Inflammation also was observed in OT‐I × POET mice but again, pathological effects were not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

T lymphocytes specific for a prostate antigen are capable of inducing inflammatory infiltration of prostatic tissue rapidly following activation, but do not produce pathological prostate injury. Prostate 66:578–590, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunohistochemical detection of cysteine‐rich secretory protein 3 in tissue and in serum from men with cancer or benign enlargement of the prostate gland
Authors: Bjartell Anders , Johansson Rebecka , Björk Thomas , Gadaleanu Virgil , Lundwall Åke , Lilja Hans , Kjeldsen Lars , Udby Lene
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Recently, the gene for cysteine‐rich secretory protein 3 (CRISP‐3) was reported to be highly upregulated in prostate cancer (PCa) compared to benign prostatic tissue. The current aims were to investigate diagnostic use of tissue expression and immunodetection in serum of CRISP‐3 for detection or monitoring of PCa.

METHODS

Radical prostatectomy specimens and tissue microarrays from transurethral resections and metastases were analyzed for CRISP‐3 and PSA by immunohistochemistry. CRISP‐3 in tissue homogenates and in serum was measured by an in‐house ELISA and PSA by a commercially available immunoassay.

RESULTS

Immunostaining for CRISP‐3 in benign prostatic epithelium was generally weak or not detectable. Specific and strong immunostaining was found in a major proportion of cells in high‐grade prostatic‐intraepithelial‐neoplasia (HG‐PIN,12/17 patients), in most primary tumors (111/115), and in lymph node (11/15) and bone (12/15) metastases. CRISP‐3 immunostaining intensity was regularly strong in areas of Gleason grades 4/5, where PSA‐immunoreaction was less intense. Serum levels of CRISP‐3 were not different in patients with PCa (n = 152) compared to men with BPH (n = 81). There was a very weak co‐variation between levels of CRISP‐3 versus PSA in serum from PCa patients (P < 0.05). After orchiectomy, levels of CRISP‐3 in serum decreased in median with 11% compared to a 97% median decrease of PSA in serum from 15/20 patients with advanced PCa.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong immunostaining for CRISP‐3 is common in HG‐PIN and preserved in most PCa specimens, which warrant further immunohistochemical studies of CRISP‐3 in PCa. Serum levels of CRISP‐3 do not primarily reflect PCa. Prostate 66:591–603, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A comparison of first and repeat (four years later) prostate cancer screening in a randomized cohort of a symptomatic men aged 55–75 years using a biopsy indication of 3.0 ng/ml (results of ERSPC, Rotterdam)
Authors: Roobol Monique J. , Schröder Fritz H. , Kranse Ries
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

The identification of predictors for prostate biopsy outcome at two screening rounds using a PSA ≥3.0 ng/ml as biopsy indication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We compared predictors by means of descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis in men (55–75 years) biopsied in either the 1st or 2nd screening round of ERSPC Rotterdam (interval 4 years).

RESULTS

Positive predictors for biopsy outcome in both screening rounds were an increased PSA level in the absence of a previous negative biopsy (PrevNB), DRE and TRUS suspicious and a positive family history (PFH). A higher than median prostate volume was a consistent negative predictor. Having had a PrevNB at initial screening strongly reduced the chance of cancer detection at repeat screening and in addition canceled the predictive potential of PSA.

CONCLUSION

If “detecting prostate cancer efficiently” were the aim, this study indicates that a “PSA only based biopsy threshold” may be replaced by another criterion incorporating, e.g., DRE, TRUS and prostate volume in men who were biopsied in the preceding 4 year interval. Prostate 66:604–612, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sprouty4, a suppressor of tumor cell motility, is downregulated by DNA methylation in human prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Jianghua , Thompson Benjamin , Ren Chengxi , Ittmann Michael , Kwabi‐Addo Bernard
Published: December 2005

PURPOSE

Alterations of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors contribute to prostate cancer progression by enhancing cellular proliferation, survival, and motility. The Sprouty gene family negatively regulates FGF signaling and may limit the ability of FGFs to enhance tumor progression. Sprouty1 is downregulated in human prostate cancers and Sprouty1 expression can markedly inhibit prostate cancer proliferation in vitro. Sprouty4 has been shown to negatively regulate both proliferation and cell migration in other systems. We therefore examined whether Sprouty4 expression was altered in prostate cancer.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Expression of Sprouty4 was examined by in situ hybridization and quantitative RT‐PCR. Methylation of the Sprouty4 gene promoter was assessed using bisulfite modification and sequencing. The effect of Sprouty4 expression on cell migration was determined using an in vitro wounding assay.

RESULTS

By in situ hybridization Sprouty4 is expressed in normal prostatic epithelial cells and is decreased in a subset of prostate cancers. Quantitative RT‐PCR confirms that Sprouty4 expression is decreased in approximately one half of prostate cancers. Analysis of the 5′‐regulatory region revealed a CpG island approximately 1 kb upstream of the transcription initiation site, the proximal portion of which was preferentially methylated in prostate cancer tissues. More than one half of all prostate cancer DNAs were methylated in this region and methylation was significantly correlated with decreased Sprouty4 expression as determined by quantitative RT‐PCR. When overexpressed in prostate cancer cell lines, Sprouty4 did not inhibit cell proliferation but did inhibit cell migration.

CONCLUSIONS

Sprouty4 expression is downregulated in human prostate cancer by DNA methylation and this decreased expression may contribute to increased cell migration. Prostate 66:613–624, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Screening for prostate cancer without digital rectal examination and transrectal ultrasound: Results after four years in the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC), Rotterdam
Authors: Gosselaar Claartje , Roobol Monique J. , Roemeling Stijn , de Vries Stijn H. , Cruijsen‐Koeter Ingrid van der , van der Kwast Theo H. , Schröder Fritz H.
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Omission of DRE/TRUS as biopsy indication results in fewer unnecessary biopsies, but may increase the risk of missing potentially aggressive prostate cancers (PCs). In 1997, the biopsy indication within the ERSPC was changed from a PSA cut‐off of 4.0 ng/ml and/or abnormal DRE/TRUS (group‐1) to solely a PSA cut‐off of 3.0 ng/ml (group‐2). We estimated the effect of omitting DRE/TRUS by comparing the results of a re‐screening 4 years after initial screening to the original policy.

METHODS

We compared rate and characteristics of detected PCs in the second round in men initially screened in group‐1 (N = 5,957) or group‐2 (N = 8,044). Additionally, we compared the rate of interval cancers (ICs) after screening with and without DRE/TRUS.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in second round cancer‐detection‐rates (group‐1, 3.0%; group‐2, 2.7%), positive‐predictive‐values (group‐1, 23.9%; group‐2, 26.3%), and number of poorly‐differentiated tumors (group‐1, 2.6%; group‐2, 3.8%). Most PCs were clinically confined to the prostate. Eleven ICs were detected in each group (0.18 and 0.14%).

CONCLUSIONS

Omitting DRE/TRUS did not result in an increased IC‐ or PC‐detection. However, considering the natural history of PC, the 4‐year follow‐up may be too short to draw a definitive conclusion. Prostate 66:625–631, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prostate cancer cells regulate growth and differentiation of bone marrow endothelial cells through TGFβ and its receptor, TGFβRII
Authors: Barrett Jeffrey M. , Rovedo Mark A. , Tajuddin Aamair M. , Jilling Tamas , Macoska Jill A. , MacDonald James , Mangold Kathy A. , Kaul Karen L.
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

The underlying mechanisms permitting prostate cancer bone metastasis are poorly understood. We previously showed that the highly metastatic prostate cancer cell line, PC‐3, inhibits bone marrow endothelial (HBME‐1) cell growth in collagen gels and induces them to differentiate into cords, resembling angiogenesis in vivo.

METHODS

cDNA microarray analysis was performed to identify cytokines responsible for the effects of PC‐3 cells on HBME‐1 cells. Cytokine and neutralizing antibody studies were done to further investigate specific angiogenic factors, such as transforming growth factor β (TGFβ). TGFβ RNA and protein were detected by real‐time RT‐PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis to measure their production by prostate cancer cell lines. Conditioned media experiments using TGFβ neutralizing antibodies were used to analyze TGFβ activation by prostate cancer cells.

RESULTS

PC‐3 conditioned media altered the expression of several TGFβ‐regulated or ‐associated genes in HBME‐1 cells. Low concentrations of TGFβ cytokines inhibited HBME‐1 cell growth to a similar level as PC‐3 conditioned media and partially induced differentiation. Inhibitors and neutralizing antibodies directed against TGFβ isoforms and TGFβ receptor type 2 (TGFβRII) reversed the growth inhibition of HBME‐1 cells conferred by PC‐3 conditioned media. Yet, only TGFβRII neutralizing antibodies significantly inhibited HBME‐1 differentiation. Also, prostate cancer cell lines produced low levels of TGFβ RNA and protein, and were shown to activate serum‐derived TGFβ.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that prostate cancer cells mediate growth inhibition and differentiation of bone marrow endothelial cells both through production and activation of TGFβ as well as alteration of TGFβRII‐mediated signal transduction. This could contribute to the establishment and growth of bone metastases. Prostate 66:632–650, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three new serum markers for prostate cancer detection within a percent free PSA‐based artificial neural network
Authors: Stephan Carsten , Xu Chuanliang , Brown David A. , Breit Samuel N. , Michael Anja , Nakamura Terukazu , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Meyer Hellmuth , Cammann Henning , Jung Klaus
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate the value of macrophage inhibitory cytokine 1 (MIC‐1), human kallikrein 11 (hK11) migration inhibitor factor (MIF) in comparison to prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) and %fPSA and also to develop a %fPSA‐based ANN with the new input factors to determine whether these additional markers can further eliminate unnecessary prostate biopsies.

METHODS

Serum samples from 371 patients with prostate cancer (PCa, n = 135) or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH, n = 236) within the PSA range 0.5–20 µg/L were analyzed for total PSA, free PSA, MIC‐1, hK11, and MIF. ‘Leave one out’ ANN models with these variables and prostate volume were constructed and compared to logistic regression (LR) and all single parameters.

RESULTS

The discriminatory power of MIC‐1, hK11, and MIF was less than that for PSA despite significant differences in BPH compared to PCa patients. At 90% and 95% sensitivity, the artificial neural networks (ANNs) were only significantly better than %fPSA if prostate volume was included.

CONCLUSIONS

ANNs with the novel input factors of MIC‐1, MIF, and/or hK11 and additional use of prostate volume demonstrated significant advantage compared with %fPSA and tPSA and may lead to a reduction in unnecessary prostate biopsies. Prostate 66:651–659, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microsatellite instability and mismatch repair target gene mutations in cell lines and xenografts of prostate cancer
Authors: Sun Xiaodong , Chen Ceshi , Vessella Robert L. , Dong Jin‐Tang
Published: December 2005

BACKGROUND

Mismatch repair (MMR) and microsatellite instability (MSI) occur in prostate cancer, but their role has not been well documented.

METHODS

In 6 cell lines and 22 xenografts from prostate cancer, PCR and gel electrophoresis were performed to detect MSI by analyzing microsatellite markers BAT‐25 and BAT‐26 and to detect frameshift mutations in mononucleotide repeats in BAX, IGF2R, MSH3, MSH6, and TGFBR2.

RESULTS

Four of 6 (67%) cell lines and 3 of 22 (14%) xenografts showed MSI. At least 1 frameshift mutation was detected in the same 4 (67%) cell lines and in 5 of 22 (23%) xenografts. While MSH3 was frequently mutated in cell lines, BAX and TGFBR2 showed frequent alterations in both cell lines and xenografts.

CONCLUSIONS

MSI related to MMR deficiency is relatively frequent in high‐grade tumors, and mutations in MSI target genes involved in cell death and proliferation appeared to be selected for during prostatic carcinogenesis. Prostate 66:660–666, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Site‐specific transamidation and deamidation of the small heat‐shock protein Hsp20 by tissue transglutaminase
Authors: Boros Sandor , Åhrman Emma , Wunderink Lisa , Kamps Bram , de Jong Wilfried W. , Boelens Wilbert C. , Emanuelsson Cecilia Sundby
Published: December 2005

Crosslinking of small heat‐shock proteins (sHsps) by tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is enhanced by stress and under pathological conditions. We here used hexapeptide probes to determine the amine donor (K) and acceptor (Q) sites for tTG in Hsp20. Mass spectrometric peptide mass fingerprinting and peptide fragmentation established that Q31 and the C‐terminal K162 are involved in inter‐ and intramolecular crosslinking (transamidation). Q31 is a conserved glutamine in sHsps where the neighboring residue determines its reactivity. Moreover, we detected highly efficient simultaneous deamidation of Q66, which suggests that tTG‐catalyzed transamidation and deamidation is specific for different glutamine residues. Proteins 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A geomorphic monitoring and adaptive assessment framework to assess the effect of lowland floodplain river restoration on channel–floodplain sediment continuity
Authors: Florsheim J. L. , Mount J. F. , Constantine C. R.
Published: December 2005

The state of the science of lowland river floodplain restoration reflects the relatively new and experimental nature of large river floodplain rehabilitation efforts. Based on results of a case study of floodplain restoration at the lowland Cosumnes River, California, we present a geomorphic monitoring and adaptive assessment framework that addresses the need to inform and utilize scientific knowledge in lowland floodplain river restoration activities. Highlighting hydrogeomorphic processes that lead to habitat creation, we identify a discharge threshold for connectivity and sediment transfer from the channel to the floodplain and integrate discharge magnitude and duration to quantify a threshold to aid determination of when geomorphic monitoring is warranted. Using floodplain sand deposition volume in splay complexes as one indicator of dynamic floodplain habitat, we develop a model to aid prediction of the sand deposition volume as an assessment tool to use to analyze future monitoring data. Because geomorphic processes that form the physical structure of a habitat are dynamic, and because the most successful restoration projects accommodate this fundamental characteristic of ecosystems, monitoring designs must both identify trends and be adapted iteratively so that relevant features continue to be measured. Thus, in this paper, adaptive assessment is defined as the modification of monitoring and analysis methods as a dynamic system evolves following restoration activities. The adaptive monitoring and assessment methods proposed facilitate long‐term measurements of channel–floodplain sediment transfer, and changes in sediment storage and morphology unique to lowland river–floodplain interactions and the habitat that these physical processes support. The adaptive assessment framework should be integrated with biological and chemical elements of an interdisciplinary ecosystem monitoring program to answer research hypotheses and to advance restoration science in lowland floodplain river systems. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ein Stadiondach schwebt nach oben – Ergänzungs‐ und Umbauarbeiten am Stadion Kaiserslautern
Authors: Pamp Reiner , Platt Jens
Published: December 2005

Um den Anforderungen der FIFA an ein Stadion für die Fußballweltmeisterschaft 2006 gerecht zu werden, mußte das Stadion auf dem Betzenberg in Kaiserslautern quantitativ erweitert und qualitativ verbessert werden. Die dafür notwendigen Bauarbeiten erstreckten sich fast flächendeckend über das gesamte Stadion und betrafen die Süd‐, West‐ und Nordtribünen sowie die beiden Eckbereiche neben der Nordtribüne. Um eine derartige Aufgabe im baulichen Bestand und bei laufendem Spielbetrieb zu bewältigen, waren zahlreiche logistische und baubetriebliche Fragestellungen zu lösen. Dabei war etwa das Stadion vor jeder Veranstaltung so herzurichten, daß alle Personen sicher den Besuch des Stadions genießen konnten. Eine besondere Herausforderung stellte sich bei dem Anheben des bestehenden Daches der Südtribüne. Durch die gewählte Zuglösung konnten der Spielbetrieb ohne Behinderungen weiterlaufen und die Kräfte im System kontrolliert umgelagert werden.
Tragwerksplanung im Anlagenbau – Ein Spannungsfeld zwischen Funktionalität, Wirtschaftlichkeit, gesetzlichen Auflagen und interdisziplinärer Arbeit
Authors: Ewert Sven , Ponzlet Martin
Published: December 2005

Planung und Bau chemischer Anlagen werden stark durch betriebliche, anlagenspezifische und rechtliche Randbedingungen beeinflußt. Der Fokus auf strikte Wirtschaftlichkeit und die interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit mit Verfahrensingenieuren, Aufstellungs‐, Prozeß‐ und Rohrleitungsplanern sowie einer Vielzahl weiterer Gewerke bilden den Rahmen für die Bauplanung. Im folgenden Beitrag wird auf einige aus dieser Zusammenarbeit entstehende Tragwerkskonzepte, Konstruktionsprinzipien und Konstruktionsmethoden eingegangen.
Zum Nachweis der Gebrauchstauglichkeit von Kranbahnen und Kranbahnunterstützungen – Begrenzung von Schwingungen
Authors: Meister Jürgen
Published: December 2005

Schwingungen von Kranbahnunterstützungen (z. B. Hallenrahmen) können durch Hubvorgänge und Fahrbewegungen ausgelöst werden. Die Begrenzung horizontaler Verschiebungen von Kranbahnunterstützungen zur “Vermeidung” störender Schwingungen, wie z. B. im Eurocode 3 Teil 6 angegeben, kann zu unwirtschaftlich großen Rahmenprofilen führen.

In diesem Beitrag werden die baudynamischen Zusammenhänge kurz vorgestellt, und es werden Vorgehensweisen zum Nachweis der Begrenzung von Schwingungen beschrieben. In vielen Fällen kann dabei mit geläufigen statischen Verfahren geprüft werden, ob eine Kranbahnunterstützung (z. B. ein Hallenrahmen) schwingungsgefährdet ist oder nicht.

Weiterhin wird auf den Zusammenhang zwischen dynamischen Belastungen und Schwingbeiwerten eingegangen. Schwingbeiwerte decken (mögliche) dynamische Beanspruchungen ab, zur Beurteilung der (tatsächlichen) Schwingungsgefährdung ist jedoch eine dynamische Berechnung erforderlich.

In einem Beispiel wird das Vorgehen zur Beurteilung der Schwingungsgefährdung eines Zweigelenkrahmens als Kranbahnunterstützung erläutert. Ein Überblick über aktuelle Vorschriften rundet diesen Beitrag ab.
Wellblechsilos nach DIN 18914
Authors: Motzkus Ulrich
Published: December 2005

Wellblechsilos gehören zu den häufigsten Lagerbauwerken für landwirtschaftliche Schüttgüter. Die Berechnung und Konstruktion solcher Silos und zugehöriger Bauteile erfolgt auf der Grundlage von DIN 18914:1985‐09. Die Norm hat sich in großen Teil en seit Einführung vor 20 Jahren bewährt. Die Praxis im Umgang mit der Norm zeigt aber auch, daß eine teilweise Verbesserung und Aktualisierung der Vorschriften erforderlich ist. Letztere ist insbesondere im Hinblick auf die stattgefundene Weiterentwicklung der Silokonstruktionen und der Normung auf europäischer einschließlich nationaler Ebene sowie hinsichtlich der heutigen Möglichkeiten elektronischer Berechnungen notwendig.
Stehende Seile unter ermüdender Zugbeanspruchung
Authors: Raupp Daniela , Klöpfer Andreas
Published: December 2005

Seit dem Bau des Münchner Olympiastadions wurde weltweit eine Vielzahl anspruchsvoller Seilbauwerke realisiert. Neben der statischen Beanspruchung der Seil‐Zugglieder und ihrer Endverankerungen rückte in den letzten Jahren verstärkt die dynamische Tragfähigkeit in den Fordergrund. Das Institut für Fördertechnik (IFT) der Universität Stuttgart befaßt sich seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 1927 unter anderem mit dem Forschungs‐ und Entwicklungsschwerpunkt Seil. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die Arbeiten am IFT und Kriterien zur Lebensdauer von Seilkonstruktionen vorgestellt.
Änderung der Gelenklagerkonstruktion des Sturmflutsperrwerks bei Rotterdam
Authors: Leendertz H. , Van Schepdael L. , Van Paepegem W. , Samyn P. , De Baets P. , Degrieck J.
Published: December 2005

Einige Jahre nach der Inbetriebnahme des Sturmflutsperrwerks bei Rotterdam zeigte das Gelenklager Abnutzungserscheinungen in den MoS2‐Gleitflächen. Nach einer Analyse der Ursachen wurde die Konstruktion geändert. Bei dieser nderung wurden andere Werkstoffe eingesetzt, um den Unterhaltungsaufwand zu verringern. Der Neuentwurf der Gleitflächen führte zu einer Lösung mit einer Gleitpaarung von Gleitstücken aus Ultrahochmolekular‐Gewichts‐PE mit Karbonfaserringen und einer Gleitfläche aus Zinkalkyd‐Primer. Der Neuentwurf enthält auch die Ausführungs‐ und Einbautoleranzen und die Qualitätssicherung.
Technologische Eigenschaften von Stählen im europäischen Vergleich
Authors: Strauss Alfred , Kala Zdenek , Bergmeister Konrad , Hoffmann Simon , Novák Drahomir
Published: December 2005

Der Vergleich der statistischen Kennwerte Fließgrenze, Bruchfestigkeit und Duktilität von österreichischen und tschechischen Stählen ist Gegenstand dieses Beitrages. Diese grundlegenden Materialeigenschaften aus österreichischen und tschechischen Stahlerhebungen wurden in unabhängiger Weise sowohl von der Universität für Bodenkultur (BOKU) Wien als auch von der Universität Brünn statistisch ausgewertet, um die maximale Objektivität für die Ergebnisse und die davon abgeleiteten Schlüsse zu garantieren. Ein Ziel dieser Untersuchungen ist die Klärung des Einflusses der Materialkennwerte auf die Zuverlässigkeit von Stahlkonstruktionen bezugnehmend auf die entsprechenden Bemessungsnormen.
Relationship between second‐trimester uterine artery Doppler and spontaneous early preterm delivery
Authors: Fonseca E. , Yu C. K. H. , Singh M. , Papageorghiou A. T. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: December 2005

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between impedance to flow in the uterine arteries at 22–24 weeks and subsequent spontaneous delivery before 33 weeks.

Methods

The pulsatility index (PI) in the uterine arteries was measured by transvaginal sonography at 22–24 weeks in 33 629 women with singleton pregnancies attending for routine antenatal care. The distribution of PI in the 237 patients with live births before 33 weeks, after spontaneous onset of labor, was compared to that in 31 633 patients with live births at or after 33 weeks.

Results

The median uterine artery mean PI was significantly higher in those women delivering before 33 weeks than in those delivering at or after 33 weeks. The mean PI was 1.57, which is the 95th centile, in 1525 (4.8%) of those delivering at or after 33 weeks and in 19 (8.0%) of the deliveries before 33 weeks. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the significant predictors of spontaneous delivery before 33 weeks were ethnic origin, smoking status, previous obstetric history and uterine artery mean PI. However, the prediction of spontaneous early preterm delivery by a combination of maternal characteristics and uterine artery Doppler was not significantly higher than maternal characteristics alone (area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve: 0.704, 95% CI 0.669–0.740 vs. 0.684, 95% CI 0.647–0.722; P = 0.062).

Conclusions

Uterine artery PI in spontaneous deliveries before 33 weeks is higher than in those women delivering at or after 33 weeks. However, uterine artery Doppler does not provide a significant improvement in the prediction of spontaneous early delivery provided by maternal demographic characteristics and previous obstetric history. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reference data representative of normal findings at two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional gray‐scale ultrasound examination of the cervix from 17 to 41 weeks' gestation
Authors: Rovas L. , Sladkevicius P. , Strobel E. , Valentin L.
Published: December 2005

Objectives

To create reference values representative of normal findings on two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) examination of the cervix from 17 to 41 weeks' gestation and to determine the agreement between cervical measurements taken by 2D and 3D TVS.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study covering 17 to 41 weeks in 419 nulliparous and 360 parous women who delivered at term and who underwent 2D and 3D TVS examination of the uterine cervix. We examined approximately 25 women in each gestational week. The length, anteroposterior (AP) diameter and width of the cervix (and of any cervical funnel) and AP diameter of the cervical canal were measured. Results were plotted against gestational age. The agreement between 2D and 3D ultrasound results was expressed as the mean (±2 SDs) difference between the results of the two methods and as the interclass correlation coefficient (inter‐CC).

Results

There was excellent agreement between measurements taken by 2D and 3D ultrasound (inter‐CC values, 0.80–0.98) but measurements of cervical length taken using 3D ultrasound were greater than measurements taken by 2D ultrasound (mean difference, −0.04 ± 0.36 cm). Cervical length did not change substantially between 17 and 32 gestational weeks but decreased progressively thereafter. Cervical length was similar in nulliparous and parous women at 17–32 weeks, but from 33 weeks the cervix tended to be longer in parous women. In nulliparae, cervical length decreased from a median of 3.8 (range, 0.7–6.1) cm at 17–32 weeks to 2.3 (range, 0.4–6.0) cm at 33–40 weeks and to 0.7 (range, 0.2–1.5) cm at 41 weeks. In parous women, the corresponding figures were 3.9 (range, 1.0–6.1) cm, 3.0 (range, 0.4–5.7) cm and 0.8 (range, 0.4–3.4) cm (results obtained by 3D ultrasound). Cervical AP diameter and width did not differ between nulliparous and parous women. Median AP diameter increased from 3.0 (range, 2.0–4.6) cm at 17–30 weeks to 3.5 (range, 1.8–5.5) cm at 31–40 weeks and to 4.0 (range, 2.8–5.9) cm at 41 weeks. Cervical width was 3.7 (range, 2.3–6.0) cm at 17–30 weeks and 4.5 (range, 2.3–6.1) cm at 31–41 weeks. The percentage of women with funneling increased from 4% (3/84) at 17–18 weeks to 63% (12/19) at 41 weeks and the percentage of women with an open cervical canal increased from 19% (15/84) to 72% (13/19). Funneling and opening of the cervical canal were equally common in nulliparous and parous women.

Conclusions

Reference data provide the basis for studies of pathological conditions. Common reference values for nulliparous and parous women can be used for cervical AP diameter and width from 17 to 41 weeks and for cervical length from 17 to 32 weeks. Separate reference values for cervical length for nulliparous and parous women should be used from 33 to 41 weeks. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perceptions and Attitudes about HFE Genotyping Among College‐Age Adults
Authors: Hicken Bret L. , Foshee Aimee , Tucker Diane C.
Published: December 2005

Purpose: Examine young adults' attitudes about HFE genotyping. Methods: 121 college students read about hemochromatosis, transferrin saturation measurement (iron test), and HFE genotyping. Interest in testing and knowledge and attitudes about genetic testing were assessed. Participants were randomly assigned to predict either their response to a positive HFE genotype (genotype group) or a positive iron test (phenotype group). Results: 71% preferred the iron test, but most would undergo either test. Learning risk and early detection/prevention were the most commonly perceived benefits; limited information about health and negative emotional consequences were the most commonly perceived disadvantages. The genotype and phenotype groups did not differ in expected worry, perceived severity, perceived risk, and preventability of organ damage. After reading the description provided, participants answered 78% of knowledge questions correctly. Conclusions: Young adults view HFE genotyping positively and report few disadvantages, but prefer the iron test for its information about current health. They appear to be receptive to public health screening for hemochromatosis.