bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of composite symptom variables for quantitative analysis of genitourinary symptomatology in women
Authors: Piper Jeanna M , Korte Jeffrey E , Holden Alan E C , Shain Rochelle N , Perdue Sondra , Champion Jane D , Newton Edward R
Published: February 2005

Gonorrhoea and chlamydia infections in women are often regarded as asymptomatic. Syndromic management of sexually transmitted disease (STDs), however, is partially based on vaginal symptoms. We sought to better identify STD-associated symptoms in women by development of composite genitourinary symptom constructs. Standard symptoms were stratified, based on their descriptors (amount, frequency, severity, etc.), into pathological (likely to be STD-associated) and intermediate (unlikely to be STD-related). Simple symptoms and composite symptom constructs were significantly more common in women with STD infections (chlamydia, gonorrhoea and/or trichomonas) than those without infection (six months later). Logistic regression confirmed the association of each pathological symptom construct individually with gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomonas. Composite symptom constructs improve the specificity for detecting STD infections in women.
Where has all the chlamydia come from? The clinical impact of the introduction of an improved chlamydia test
Authors: Sherrard Jackie , Rings Margaret , Hall Chris
Published: February 2005

At a time of increasing demands on genitourinary (GU) medicine clinics, the introduction of a new nucleic acid test to a GU medicine clinic has the potential to increase the workload due to increased numbers of patients being identified with chlamydia, and a consequent increase in partner notification. In one clinic setting, we found a doubling in the rates of chlamydial infection following the introduction of a new test, but a concomitant reduction in the rates of non-specific genital infection. The improved specificity of the test has made counselling of patients with chlamydia and non-specific infection much easier. An audit has shown that contact-tracing outcomes are significantly better in patients who are diagnosed with chlamydia.
The role of sex worker clients in transmission of HIV in Cambodia
Authors: Hor Leng Bun , Detels Roger , Heng Sopheab , Mun Phalkun
Published: February 2005

The study investigated whether clients of sex workers are a bridge for transmission of HIV to the general population of Cambodia. We interviewed and collected blood from 468 clients attending 30 randomly selected brothels in three provinces of Cambodia. The levels of HIV knowledge and condom use, and prevalence of HIV (9.2%) were high. Almost 40% of those interviewed had sex with women other than sex workers (wives, girlfriends, etc.), but rarely used condoms. Sexually transmitted disease (STD) rates were high, but most sought treatment from pharmacies. HIV infection was correlated with a history of STD, having had an HIV test, not living with one's wife, a high level of HIV/AIDS knowledge, and condom slippage/breakage. Clients are a major bridge for HIV transmission from sex workers. Current condom promotion programmes need to target non-sex worker intercourse. More effective, acceptable STD-control strategies need to be implemented and evaluated.
Co-infection with HIV and TB: double trouble
Authors: McShane Helen
Published: February 2005

Co-infection with HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis is common, particularly in the developing world. Tuberculosis (TB) is the commonest co-infection in HIV-positive individuals, who are at increased risk of both reactivation of latent infection and acquisition of new infection. As the degree of immunosuppression increases, the risks of developing TB disease also increase. The patho-physiology, clinical picture, differential diagnosis and diagnostic tests are discussed, together with the interactions between antiretroviral therapy and anti-tuberculous chemotherapy. Indications for chemoprophylaxis and vaccination against TB are reviewed.
Development of hepatotoxicity in HIV patients switching at least one protease inhibitor
Authors: Aceti Antonio , Pasquazzi Caterina , Zechini Barbara , De Bac Carlo ,   The LIVERHAART Group
Published: February 2005

In order to evaluate the occurrence of hepatotoxicity in patients treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) who switch protease inhibitor (PI), and the role of viral hepatitis in its development, we performed a retrospective study on 182 HIV patients treated with ART for 24 months. The presence of hepatitis viruses and alanine transaminase levels were evaluated. Hepatotoxicity developed in a low number of subjects without co-infection, but was significantly higher in co-infected patients (14/51 versus 62/131, P = 0.01). Ritonavir was associated with higher rates of severe hepatotoxicity in the co-infected group. Patients presenting any problems related to ART, including the development of hepatotoxicity, continued therapy by switching PI. The occurrence of hepatotoxicity with second/third choice PIs, including ritonavir, remained stable. Our results suggest that switching PI does not increase the occurrence of drug-related liver toxicity.
Screening for sexually transmitted diseases and hepatitis in 18–29-year-old men recently released from prison: feasibility and acceptability
Authors: Sosman J M , MacGowan R J , Margolis A D , Eldridge G , Flanigan T , Vardaman J , Fitzgerald C , Kacanek D , Binson D , Seal D W , Gaydos C A ,   Project START Study Group
Published: February 2005

Men entering prisons have high rates of sexually transmitted disease (STD), hepatitis, and HIV. This study sought to determine the acceptability and feasibility of screening for STD and hepatitis in young men released from prison. Participants were interviewed six months after release and offered free screening. Of 42 (56%) eligible men who participated in the qualitative interview, 33 (79%) provided at least a blood or urine specimen. Eight of 33 (24%) men tested had chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B or C virus (HBV or HCV). Three of 32 (9%) had chlamydia, three of 32 (9%) had trichomoniasis, two of 28 (7%) had prior syphilis, and two of 28 (7%) had HCV. Of 28 tested for HBV, six (21%) were immune, two (7%) had chronic infection, and 20 (71%) were susceptible. Barriers to screening included lack of forewarning, inconvenience, and insufficient incentive. In conclusion, screening for STD and hepatitis among former inmates can be acceptable and feasible. Forewarning, reducing the time burden, and providing monetary incentives may increase screening rates.
Phenytoin hypersensitivity syndrome masquerading as fever and systemic illness of unknown origin in an HIV-infected patient
Authors: Bedimo R J , Geisler W M
Published: February 2005

A 32-year-old HIV-infected woman developed fever and systemic illness of unknown origin after being placed on phenytoin for seizures. Her clinical syndrome, skin biopsy findings, and clinical response to steroids were consistent with phenytoin hypersensitivity syndrome.
Increasing trend of HIV seropositivity among commercial sex workers attending the Voluntary and Confidential Counseling and Testing Centre in Manipur, India
Authors: Singh Th Nabakumar , Kananbala S , Thongam Winson , Devi KH Sulochana , Singh NG Brajachand
Published: February 2005

A total of 1903 commercial sex workers (CSWs) attending the Voluntary and Confidential Counseling and Testing Centre at the Department of Microbiology, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Manipur, were screened for HIV infection over a period of five years from March 1998 to February 2003. All cases were in the age group 13–55 years. Most cases were in the age group 20–30 years (50.86%). Out of 1903 CSWs, 304 were found to be HIV-seropositive, confirmed by three tests (ELISA/RAPID/SIMPLE) of different biological antigen principles according to India's National AIDS Control Organisation guidelines. The annual rising trend in incidence of HIV seropositivity among CSWs from March 1998 (10.93%) to February 2003 (29.68%) was observed in the test site attenders, in contrast to the declining trend among injecting drug users in the state from March 1998 (76%) to February 2003 (59.82%). In all, 622 sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases were diagnosed, of which 242 (38.90%) had syphilis, which was the commonest STI, and 172 (27.65%) had ulcerative lesions. Increasing HIV seropositivity among CSWs observed in this study reflects the changing pattern of HIV transmission in Manipur.
Natural products chemistry and phytomedicine in the 21st century: New developments and challenges
Authors: Wagner H.
Published: February 2005

The gradual transition from the long-standing use of monodrug therapy in classical medicine to the new concept of a multidrug and multitarget therapy has great implications for the research strategies of natural products chemistry and phytomedicine. The rationalization of the new strategies, however, requires great efforts in: standardization of mono- and multiphytopreparations using all available high-tech methods; screening of extracts and their constituents by integration of modern molecular biological bioassays; and controlled, clinical studies, inclusive of pharmacokinetic and bioavailability investigations, aimed at evidence-based phytotherapy. The first results obtained in recent years are explained using several examples of phytopharmacological and clinical studies. These show the therapeutic superiority of many plant extracts over single isolated constituents, as well as the bioequivalence of many phytopharmaceuticals with synthetic chemotherapeutics.
Biological activity from indigenous medicinal plants of Mauritius
Authors: Gurib-Fakim A. , Subratty H. , Narod F. , Govinden-Soulange J. , Mahomoodally F.
Published: February 2005

The Mauritian population has a long tradition in the use of ethno-medicine, and the practice is still strong, especially in the treatment of minor ailments. Such interest stems from an existing culture, and many “tisanes” are still prepared from plant materials and sold in several markets around the island.

This paper will focus on the various chemical/biological screening techniques currently being used to evaluate the biological properties of medicinal plant extracts. Particular emphasis will be put on extraction and various screening for biological/pharmacological properties. Due consideration will be given to the pharmacological approaches that utilize different animal models for the in vitro and in vivo screening of medicinal plant extracts.
Diverse metabolites of coral reef organisms
Authors: Tanaka Junichi , Kuniyoshi Masayuki , Tanaka Chiaki , Issa Hamad H. , Balansa Walter , Otsuka Masahito , Githige Wahome P. , Higa Tatsuo
Published: February 2005

A detailed mechanism for the spontaneous transformation of 2-chloro-1-hydroxyoctoda-3(8),5-dien-4-one, a metabolite of Portieria hornemanni, into 4,5-dimethylbenzo[b]furan was presented. Five new terpenoids have been isolated from the red alga Laurencia luzonensis. Five species of sponges yielded various metabolites: furanosesterterpenes from Ircinia sp., scalarane derivatives from Phyllospongia sp., polyketides from Theonella cf. swinhoei, a polyacetylene from Callyspongia sp., and cyclic depsipeptides from Suberites japonicus. Other new metabolites were sponge-derived secomanoalide derivative and imidazole alkaloids from nudibranchs, briarane class diterpenes from octocorals, and cyclofarnesylated hydroquinones, floresolides A-C, from an ascidian, Aplidium sp. Many of these compounds showed cytotoxicity.
Biopolyphenolics as antioxidants: Studies under an Indo-Italian CSIR-CNR project
Authors: Foti Mario C. , Sharma Sunil K. , Shakya Gaurav , Prasad Ashok K. , Nicolosi Giovanni , Bovicelli Paolo , Ghosh Balaram , Raj Hanumantharao G. , Rastogi Ramesh C. , Parmar Virinder S.
Published: February 2005

A wide variety of polyphenolic compounds (i.e., 4-methylcoumarins, xanthones, pyrazoles, and pyrazolylacrylonitriles) have been examined for their antioxidant effect on NADPH-catalyzed liver-microsomal lipid peroxidation with a view to establishing their structure–activity relationship. Dihydroxy-/diacetoxy-4-methylcoumarin derivatives have been shown to be radical scavengers. The effect of nine different xanthones has been examined on the modulation of cytokine-induced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in human endothelial cells. 1,4-Dihydroxyxanthone showed enhanced antioxidant activity as well as ICAM-1 inhibitory activity.
From 3,3,4,4-tetraethoxybutyne to carbohydrate mimics
Authors: Sydnes Leiv K. , Kvernenes Ole H. , Valdersnes Stig
Published: February 2005

3,3,4,4-Tetraethoxy-1-butyne, available in high yield in four simple steps from ethyl vinyl ether, is a highly functionalized alkyne, which appears to be a versatile starting material for the synthesis of a range of alkylated, more-or-less deoxygenated carbohydrate mimics. However, many of the reactions used to achieve extension and subsequent structural modification of the carbon chain as well as removal of the protecting groups turn out to be rather sensitive to the substituents’ steric and electronic influence. As a result, the reactivity pattern that emerges is somewhat complex.
Use of furans in synthesis of bioactive compounds
Authors: Lee Hing-Ken , Chan Kin-Fai , Hui Chi-Wai , Yim Ho-Kee , Wu Xun-Wei , Wong Henry N. C.
Published: February 2005

Synthetic approaches to the total synthesis of plakortone B, as well as diastereoselective nucleophilic additions to furyl aldehyde and furyl sulfonylimine employing chiral 3-boronates as auxiliary are presented.
Creating chemical diversity space by scaffold decoration of dihydropyrimidines
Authors: Dallinger Doris , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: February 2005

The demand for diverse compound libraries for screening in drug discovery and materials science is the driving force behind the development of new technologies for rapid parallel and combinatorial synthesis. The focus of this article will be on the scaffold decoration of biologically active dihydropyrimidines (DHPMs) of the Biginelli type, exploring the diversity on all six positions around the scaffold. This opens up the generation of a very large number of analogs given the commercial availability of the building blocks that are used in the functionalization process.
Toward the library generation of natural product-like polycyclic derivatives by stereocontrolled diversity-oriented synthesis
Authors: Arya P. , Quevillon S. , Joseph R. , Wei C.-Q. , Gan Z. , Parisien M. , Sesmilo E. , Reddy P. T. , Chen Z.-X , Durieux P. , Laforce D. , Campeau L.-C. , Khadem S. , Couve-Bonnaire S. , Kumar R. , Sharma U. , Leek D. M. , Daroszewska M. , Barnes M. L.
Published: February 2005

Due to the growing interest in small molecules that could help in understanding protein–protein interactions based on signal transduction, the demand for the generation of small-molecule libraries that are inspired by bioactive natural products has grown significantly. Many of these pathways are highly complex and present tremendous challenges with the use of classical tools. A rapid access to natural product-like small molecules having structural complexity and diversity is crucial for systematically dissecting the functions of complex protein networking and understanding cell signaling pathways. The complex nature, the three-dimensional architecture, and the number of protein binding functional groups presented in three-dimensional arrays are some of the attractive features to incorporate in small-molecule chemical probes to be used as modulators of protein function.
Novel pyrrole-containing hypoglycemic and hypotriglyceridemic compounds
Authors: Lohray Braj B. , Lohray Vidya
Published: February 2005

Several substituted α-alkoxy phenyl propionic acids were synthesized, and their hypotriglyceridemic properties were evaluated in Swiss albino mice. Some of the compounds showed excellent triglyceride- and cholesterol-lowering properties even at a dose of 1 mg/kg. 2,5-Substituted pyrrole-containing heterocycles were among the most potent alkoxy propionic acid class of compounds. These compounds also showed excellent antidiabetic activities in animal models.
Synthesis of novel non-isoprenoid phenolic acids and 3-alkylpyridines
Authors: Jain Subhash C. , Kumar Rohtash , Goswami Rajeev , Pandey Mukesh K. , Khurana Shilpi , Rohatgi Leena , Gyanda Kapil
Published: February 2005

A new strategy has been developed for the synthesis of naturally occurring 6-alkenyl phenolic acids and 3-alkylpyridine alkaloids of biological importance. This strategy makes use of the proper substituted aryl or pyridyl sulfone as the potent intermediate. A carbanion was generated from the sulfone by treating it with NaH in dimethylformamide (DMF) at –5 °C and was used for alkylation reaction with alkyl/alkenyl bromide in DMF at 0 °C to give product, which, on reduction with sodium-amalgam, yielded the desired natural product. Using this methodology, we have synthesized 11 natural 6-alkyl/alkenyl salicylic acids, which were known to possess strong antimicrobial activities against many pathogens and had also shown molluscicidal activity against the snail Biomphalaria glabrata. This methodology was also extended to synthesize two natural 3-alkylpyridine alkaloids that were known to possess strong cytotoxic activity against P-388 murine leukemia cells with IC50 values of 1–2.3 μg/ml. Taking leads from these natural products, we have also synthesized a number of related compounds in order to find a potential drug candidate for the future. This paper presents the highlights of the work done on the synthesis of these two classes of compounds.
Novel anti-infective compounds
Authors: Lohray Vidya B. , Lohray Braj. B. , Srivastava Brijesh Kumar
Published: February 2005

A set of substituted piperazinyloxazolidinone derivatives has been studied for their antibacterial activity in a few gram-positive bacteria. The structural modifications have provided a superior compound than linezolid, the only drug of this class in the market at present.
Gel-immobilized enzymes as promising biocatalysts: Results from Indo-Russian collaborative studies
Authors: Markvicheva Elena A. , Lozinsky Vladimir I. , Plieva Fatima M. , Kochetkov Konstantin A. , Rumsh Lev D. , Zubov Vitali P. , Maity Jyotirmoy , Kumar Rajesh , Parmar Virinder S. , Belokon Yury N.
Published: February 2005

Chemo-enzymatic methods constitute a promising approach to obtain various biologically active compounds, including enantiomerically pure substances. Entrapment in gels is one of the most convenient methods to stabilize enzymes for their application in water/organic media. Proteases and lipases are widely used for enantioselective transformations of various organic compounds in water-poor media. In this study, chymotrypsin was entrapped into a composite poly(N-vinyl caprolactam)-calcium alginate (PVCL-CaAlg) and covalently attached to poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) cryogel beads. Lipase was immobilized by covalently attaching to aldehyde-bearing PVA cryogel beads. The activities of the entrapped biocatalysts were studied. Both entrapped α-chymotrypsin and lipase retained high activity in acetonitrile/water medium (water content 0.5–20 %) and displayed high storage stability for several months. The high operational stability of immobilized α-chymotrypsin and lipase in a cyclic process (up to 912 h in total) was also demonstrated. Gel-immobilized enzymes were successfully used to obtain optically pure L-phenylalanine (ee 98.6 and 83 % in the case of α-chymotrypsin and lipase, respectively) by enantioselective hydrolysis of Schiff’s base of amino acid ethyl ester in an acetonitrile/water system.
Acetoxy drug: protein transacetylase: A novel enzyme-mediating protein acetylation by polyphenolic peracetates
Authors: Raj Hanumantharao G. , Singh Brajendra K. , Kohli Ekta , Dwarkanath Bilikere S. , Jain Subhash C. , Rastogi Ramesh C. , Kumar Ajit , Adhikari J. S. , Watterson Arthur C. , Olsen Carl E. , Parmar Virinder S.
Published: February 2005

The acetylation of proteins in biological systems is largely catalyzed by specific acetyl transferases utilizing acetyl CoA as the acetyl donor. The enzymatic acetylation of proteins independent of acetyl CoA was unknown until we discovered a unique membrane-bound enzyme in mammalian cells catalyzing the transfer of acetyl groups from polyphenolic peracetates (PAs) to certain enzyme proteins, resulting in the modulation of their catalytic activities. Since for the enzyme, acetyl derivatives of several classes of polyphenols such as coumarins, flavones, chromones, and xanthones were found to be acetyl donors, the enzyme was termed as acetoxy drug: protein transacetylase (TAase). TAase was found to be ubiquitously present in tissues of several animal species and a variety of animal cells. Liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 (CYP), NADPH-cytochrome c reductase and cytosolic glutathione S-transferase (GST) were found to be the targets for TAase-catalyzed acetylation by the model acetoxy drug 7,8-diacetoxy-4-methylcoumarin (DAMC). Accordingly, the catalytic activities of CYP-linked, mixed function oxidases (MFOs) and GST were irreversibly inhibited while the reductase was remarkably activated. In this report, we have reviewed the details concerning purification and characterization of TAase and the protein acetylation by DAMC. Quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) studies concerning the specificities of various PAs to liver microsomal TAase and TAase-related biological effects have also been reviewed.
Production of a novel alkaline lipase by Fusarium globulosum using neem oil, and its applications
Authors: Gulati Ruchi , Isar Jasmine , Kumar Vineet , Prasad Ashok K. , Parmar Virinder S. , Saxena Rajendra K.
Published: February 2005

A low-temperature, alkaline, and detergent-compatible lipase from Fusarium globulosum (FGL) has been produced using an inexpensive source, viz. neem oil. Maximum lipase production of 12 300 U/L was achieved in 96 h on optimizing various physicochemical parameters. The lipase exhibited remarkable stability in the presence of commercial detergents, bleaching agents, and proteases. The lipase showed a novel property of marked activation on prolonged incubation at alkaline pH. Wash performance analysis of the commercial detergent for removal of fatty stains improved upon addition of this lipase.
Identification of target genes of microRNAs in retinoic acid-induced neuronal differentiation
Authors: Kawasaki Hiroaki , Taira Kazunari
Published: February 2005

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are phylogenetically widespread, small noncoding RNAs of 18–25 nucleotides in length, and are expressed in animals and plants. These small RNAs can regulate gene expression at the translational level through interactions with their target messenger RNAs, and have a role in the development of Caenorhabditis elegans, plants, and mammals. Although more than 200 miRNAs have been found in mammals, it is not easy to identify their targets. We investigated the target genes of miRNAs and analyzed the function of these miRNAs during retinoic acid (RA)-induced neuronal differentiation.
Novel nucleic acid architectures involving locked nucleic acid (LNA) and pyrene residues: Results from an Indo-Danish collaboration
Authors: Babu B. Ravindra , Raunak  , Sørensen Mads D. , Hrdlicka Patrick J. , Trikha Smriti , Prasad Ashok K. , Parmar Virinder S. , Wengel Jesper
Published: February 2005

We report herein our results for locked nucleic acid (LNA)-type oligonucleotides containing pyrene residues. Pyrene has a large hydrophobic and planar surface area and is therefore a potential intercalating unit; furthermore, it is interesting as a fluorescent tag when covalently bound to DNA. Synthesis and hybridization of conformationally locked universal base surrogates are described together with efficient interstrand communication as shown by the formation of pyrene excimer bands for duplexes containing 2'-N-(pyren-1-yl)methyl-2'-amino-LNA monomers positioned in a zipper-like manner within a DNA duplex.
Biocatalytic approaches for synthesis of conducting polyaniline nanoparticles
Authors: Cholli Ashok L. , Thiyagarajan M. , Kumar Jayant , Parmar Virinder S.
Published: February 2005

A biocatalytic approach has been developed to synthesize conducting polyaniline (PANI) nanoparticles. The method involves the formation of nanocomposites of PANI and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) by polymerizing aniline (AN)-camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) macromonomer (AN/CSA) using a biocatalyst in the presence of template PAA. The second step involves the separation of PANI polymers from PAA and CSA in the nanocomposites. The formation of PANI nanoparticles by this two-step approach is studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). High-resolution solution 13C NMR and UV/visible spectroscopic techniques have been used to characterize the formation of conducting PANI chains by the enzymatic method.
Significance of Soil Suction and Soil Water Characteristic Curve Parameters
Authors: Sivakumar Babu GL , Peter J , Mukesh MD , Gartung E
Published: February 2005

Soil Water Characteristic Curves (SWCC) of unsaturated soils have considerable importance in analysis of geotechnical engineering problems. In these analyses, it is necessary to make a distinction between the components of total suction in terms of solute and matric suctions, which is generally ignored in practice. In the present study, suction characteristics of two compacted clayey soils are measured using filter paper method (ASTM D 5298-94), which is useful in this regard. The experimental results show that consideration of only matric suction instead of total suction is conservative as it constitutes about 25 to 60% of total suction in clay soils. Theoretical models were fitted to experimental results, and it is demonstrated that the model parameters are different in terms of total suction and matric suction. The results show that measurement of both the components of suction using the filter paper method is simple and useful in engineering analysis.
An Assessment of the Effect of Rod Length on SPT Energy Calculations Based on Measured Field Data
Authors: Sancio RB , Bray JD
Published: February 2005

The penetration resistance of a sandy soil, as measured by the Standard Penetration Test (SPT), is extensively used in geotechnical engineering. There are many factors that influence the energy transmitted to the rod string and sampler by the impact of the hammer on the anvil and thus affect the value of the blow count or N-value. This paper presents the results of a series of site investigations performed in northwest Turkey following the 1999 Kocaeli earthquake, where close to 2000 direct measurements of the energy transmitted by the hammer to the sampling system were conducted. It was found that short rod lengths have a small influence on the energy ratio when this is calculated by the force-velocity method. It was also observed that the N-value of the test interval has an influence on the effect that short rods have on the energy ratio calculated by the force-velocity method. Additionally, for this study the calculation of the energy ratio by the procedures outlined in ASTM D4633, which is currently withdrawn, is significantly greater than the energy ratio calculated by the force-velocity method.
Development of an In Situ Dynamic Liquefaction Test
Authors: Rathje EM , Chang W-J , Stokoe KH
Published: February 2005

A new field-testing technique has been developed in which liquefaction and pore pressure generation characteristics of soil are measured in situ. The in situ dynamic liquefaction test utilizes a large, hydraulic shaker to load dynamically a soil deposit. The soil response is measured with embedded instrumentation. The embedded instrumentation includes newly developed liquefaction test sensors that incorporate velocity transducers (geophones) and pore pressure transducers in a single case. The recorded data are used to describe pore pressure generation and liquefaction characteristics in terms of the relationship between shear strain and induced pore pressure ratio. The analytical techniques used to compute shear strain from particle velocity measurements are discussed and compared. The results from testing a 1.2-m by 1.2-m by 1.2-m reconstituted field test specimen are presented. The shear strain—pore pressure relationships at selected numbers of loading cycles that were determined from the in situ dynamic liquefaction test are compared with those measured by other investigators in the laboratory. The field-measured relationships show the same shape as the lab-measured relationships, but the field data indicate a smaller threshold strain for pore pressure generation (∼0.005 %). This difference is attributed to the low effective stresses in the reconstituted field specimen.
Solution Retention Capacity as an Alternative to the Swell Index Test for Sodium Bentonite
Authors: Lee J-M , Shackelford CD
Published: February 2005

A new test, referred to as the solution retention capacity (SRC), is proposed as a potentially less tedious and quicker alternative to the swell index (SI) test (ASTM D 5890) for bentonite. The SRC represents the amount of a 50-mL solution retained in one gram of oven-dried bentonite after centrifugation at 2750 g, and the SRC values are reported in units of mL/g. The SRC for two sodium bentonites from geosynthetic clay liners measured using deionized water and solutions containing calcium chloride (CaCl2) at concentrations ranging from 5 mM to 500 mM is compared with the SI for both bentonites and the same test liquids. In general, both SI and SRC decrease with increasing CaCl2 concentration due to a decrease in the thickness of adsorbed layer of the bentonite particles. However, the SI is greater than the SRC, with SI falling in the range of 7.5 mL/2 g ≤ SI ≤ 30 mL/2 g and SRC falling in the range of 1.7 mL/g ≤ SRC ≤ 7.2 mL/g. The difference in the magnitudes of SI relative to SRC is attributed, in part, to the differences in the units (i.e., mL/2 g for SI versus mL/g for SRC) and the accelerations (i.e., 1 g in SI versus 2750 g in SRC) for the two procedures. Also, the SI includes the volume of the solid bentonite, whereas the SRC does not.
Field Testing of Inclined Cone Penetration
Authors: Wei L , Tumay MT , Abu-Farsakh MY
Published: February 2005

It is expected that the measurements of tip resistance and sleeve friction will be somewhat different between vertical cone penetration tests (CPTv) and inclined cone penetration tests (ICPT). In order to investigate this effect, a field testing program was performed in three different locations with varying soil characteristics in Louisiana. The values of tip resistance and sleeve friction were compared between CPTv and ICPT. The coefficient of lateral earth pressure at rest, K0, indicates the degree of initial stress anisotropy. It was found that, both the tip resistance and the sleeve friction tend to increase for K0 < 1 or decrease for K0 > 1 as the orientation of penetration changes gradually from vertical to horizontal.
The Role of Friction in Post-Crack Energy Absorption of Fiber Reinforced Concrete in the Round Panel Test
Authors: Bernard ES
Published: February 2005

The Round Panel test has recently become standardized as C-1550 for post-crack performance assessment of Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) and Shotcrete (FRS). This test involves the imposition of an out-of-plane point load at a constant rate of displacement to the center of a round panel supported on three symmetrically arranged pivots. Performance is measured in terms of the energy absorbed by the specimen up to a specified central deflection. Most of this energy is expended in the process of fiber deformation and pull-out from the concrete across cracks that form during the test. A significant proportion of the energy apparently absorbed by the specimen is actually lost to friction, however, as the panel fragments that form after cracking of the concrete slide outward in a radial direction across the supports. This investigation has been undertaken to determine the proportion of total energy absorption that is lost to friction as a result of this failure mechanism and to identify thereby how much energy is actually absorbed by the specimen.
Effect of Periodic Overloads on Threshold Fatigue Crack Growth in Al-Alloys
Authors: Sunder R
Published: February 2005

Experiments were performed on 10 mm thick C(T) specimens cut from Al-alloys to assess fatigue crack growth behavior under periodic overloads by comparison to constant amplitude loading. The tests were performed at a sufficiently high stress ratio to avoid crack closure, whose absence was confirmed from Load-COD response. ΔKth values were determined under these loadings in air, salt water, and vacuum. Even though closure was absent, ΔKth shows a systematic dependence on overload plastic zone ratio. Similar results were obtained in both air and salt water. In vacuum however, near threshold crack growth is accelerated by comparison to no-overload conditions, while higher growth rates see a reversal in this trend. These results appear to support the possibility that residual stress moderates crack-tip surface chemistry in near-threshold fatigue, an effect that ceases in vacuum.
Fatigue Crack Growth Rate and Stress-Intensity Factor Corrections for Out-of-Plane Crack Growth
Authors: Forth SC , Herman DJ , James MA , Johnston WM
Published: February 2005

Fatigue crack growth rate testing is performed using automated data collection systems that assume straight crack growth in the plane of symmetry and that use standard polynomial solutions to compute crack length and stress-intensity factors from compliance or potential drop measurements. Visual measurements used to correct the collected data typically include only the horizontal crack length, which underestimates the crack growth rates for cracks that propagate out-of-plane. The authors have devised an approach for correcting both the crack growth rates and stress-intensity factors based on two-dimensional mixed mode-I/II finite element analysis (FEA). The approach is used to correct out-of-plane data for 7050-T7451 and 2025-T6 aluminum alloys. Results indicate the correction process works well for high ΔK levels, but it fails to capture the mixed-mode effects at ΔK levels approaching threshold (da/dN ∼ 10−10 meter/cycle). Based on the results presented in this paper, the authors propose modifications to ASTM E 647: to be more restrictive on the limits for out-of-plane cracking (15°); to add a requirement for a minimum of two visual measurements (one at test start and one at test completion); and to include a note on crack twisting angles, with a limit of 10° being acceptable.
Sensitivity of Creep Crack Initiation and Growth in Plates to Material Properties Variations
Authors: Wasmer K , Nikbin KM , Webster GA
Published: February 2005

In this paper, creep crack initiation and growth data are reported on type 316L(N) stainless steel at 650°C on compact tension (CT) specimens and on plates containing a semi-elliptical surface defect. The compact tension tests were carried out according to standard ASTM E 1457 procedures, and the results are plotted against experimental determinations of the creep fracture mechanics parameter C* derived from load-line displacement rate. Generally, satisfactory agreement is found between the CT specimen and plate results, although longer initiation times and slower cracking rates were observed in the plates consistent with the lower constraint anticipated in this specimen geometry. Also, predictions of the cracking behavior of the plates have been made using deterministic and probabilistic methods. In the former case, combinations of upper and lower bound material properties were used, which were based on the ± 2 standard deviation (± 2SD) limits obtained from the measured scatter in the data. In the latter, a Monte Carlo simulation was adopted. It is found that the combination of bounds (± 2SD) giving the shortest failure time corresponds with a failure probability of about 0.05 % from the probabilistic calculations.
Simplified Thermal Analysis of Asynchronous Machine
Authors: Okoro OI
Published: February 2005

The simplified thermal network model for Asynchronous machine is developed in this paper. The differential set of equations governing the thermal behavior of the machine under transient state conditions is derived and solved using a commercial software package. MATLAB®. The simulated mean temperatures for the various machine parts are compared with the measured results. It is observed that the predicted stator temperature is in good agreement with the measured temperature.
Density Compensation of TDR Calibration for Geotechnical Applications
Authors: Yu X , Drnevich VP
Published: February 2005

Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology has been widely used in areas such as agricultural science, soil science, and water resources for measuring soil volumetric water content and is beginning to be used in geotechnical engineering. Calibration relationships, which generally relate the soil volumetric water content to TDR measured dielectric constant, are critical for the accuracy of TDR measurements. For TDR technology to be useful for geotechnical engineering practice, the calibration relationship needs to be expressed in terms of gravimetric water content. Besides, geotechnical engineering deals with more compacted earth materials, where the effects of soil density on TDR calibration are significant. This paper introduces an improved TDR calibration relation that accounts for the density of soil skeleton while at the same time is simple in format. Application of this calibration relationship shows that it significantly reduces data scatter and achieves more accurate results than other existing calibration relationships.
Plutonium-238 Alpha-Decay Damage Study of A Glass-Bonded Sodalite Ceramic Waste Form
Authors: Frank SM , DiSanto T , Goff MK , Johnson SG , Jue J-F , Barber TL , Noy M , O'Holleran TP , Giglio JJ
Published: February 2005

An accelerated alpha-decay damage study of a glass-bonded sodalite ceramic waste form has been completed recently. The study was designed to investigate the physical and chemical durability of the waste form after exposure to 238Pu alpha decay. The alpha-decay dose at the end of the four year study was approximately 1.0 × 1018 decays/gram of material. The ceramic waste form (CWF) was developed to immobilize fission products accumulated during the treatment of spent nuclear fuel from the Experimental Breeder Reactor II performed at Argonne National Laboratory-West in Idaho. Small quantities of actinide elements are also found in the waste form. The CWF is currently undergoing qualification testing and characterization for acceptance by the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management for geologic disposal. Methods used to monitor the 238Pu-loaded CWF material in this study included: immersion density determination to measure possible macroscopic swelling, chemical durability by leach testing, microstructural analysis by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and phase composition and stability by powder X-ray and electron diffraction.

After four years of exposure to alpha decay, the investigation observed little alteration to the CWF. Specifically, the 238Pu-loaded CWF maintained its physical integrity, the density remained constant, no cracking or phase debonding was observed by microscopy, and the material's chemical durability did not change significantly over the duration of the study. The only significant measured change was an increase of the unit-cell lattice parameters of the plutonium oxide and sodalite phases of the material, but these were very small and did not lead to any loss of waste form durability.
ASTM C 88 Test on Soundness of Aggregate Using Sodium Sulfate or Magnesium Sulfate: A Study of the Mechanisms of Damage
Authors: Haynes H
Published: February 2005

In this study, the mechanisms of damage to aggregate particles by sodium sulfate and magnesium sulfate solutions were investigated. By using glass and aluminum containers to represent aggregate pore space and confining walls, test results showed that during soaking cycles crystal growth occurred that applied some bearing pressure on the container. This bearing pressure, however, was secondary to more damaging pressure that occurred during the oven drying cycles. During soaking cycles, mirabilite (Na2·SO4 10H2O) applied bearing pressures up to about 0.6 MPa. During oven drying cycles, thenardite applied bearing pressures up to about 2.0 MPa. Magnesium sulfate salts produced bearing pressures about the same magnitude as that of the sodium sulfate salts.
The Role of TGA-DTA in the Initial Evaluation of the Solid State Forms for Pharmaceutical New Chemical Entities, Part 1: Evaluation of Pure Forms
Authors: Redman-Furey NL , Dicks ML , Godlweski J , Vaughn DC , Collins WJ
Published: February 2005

TGA-DTA plays a central role in the strategy outlined for early evaluation of the solid state forms available to pharmaceutical new chemical entities. At this early stage of development, compound and time are typically at a premium, so a successful strategy requires making the best possible use of the materials and time available. In addition, because of time and compound limitations, the goal of a solid state investigation is focused upon early stage objectives rather than development of a complete understanding of all available solid state forms. The TGA-DTA is well suited to addressing these needs.
The Role of TGA-DTA in the Initial Evaluation of the Solid State Forms for Pharmaceutical New Chemical Entities, Part 2: Evaluation of Mixed Forms
Authors: Redman-Furey NL , Dicks ML , Godlweski J , Vaughn DC , Collins WJ
Published: February 2005

TGA-DTA plays a central role in the strategy outlined for early evaluation of the solid state forms available to pharmaceutical new chemical entities. Understanding of the solid state forms becomes more difficult when individual samples present as mixed forms, especially when it is not immediately recognized that the samples represent a mixture. In this study, TGA-DTA, in combination with light microscopy and powder X-ray diffraction, provided immediate evidence that samples represented mixed solid state forms. The initial assessment was made using as little as 5 mg of sample. Hygroscopicity challenges provided further proof for mixed forms. To make a definite assignment of the solid state forms present, isolation of pure phases of the suspected individual forms was necessary. Success of this testing strategy is illustrated using an example of mixed salt stoichiometry and mixed hydration states. A hierarchy is suggested for efficient isolation efforts when a complex mixture of solid state samples is present.
IDH mutation, glioma immunogenicity, and therapeutic challenge of primary mismatch repair deficient IDH‐mutant astrocytoma PMMRDIA: a systematic review
Authors: Ahmad Olfat , Ahmad Tahani , Pfister Stefan M.
Published: February 2024

In 2021, Suwala et al. described Primary Mismatch Repair Deficient IDH‐mutant Astrocytoma (PMMRDIA) as a distinct group of gliomas. In unsupervised clustering, PMMRDIA forms distinct cluster, separate from other IDH‐mutant gliomas, including IDH‐mutant gliomas with secondary mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency. In the published cohort, three patients received treatment with an immune checkpoint blocker (ICB), yet none exhibited a response, which aligns with existing knowledge about the decreased immunogenicity of IDH‐mutant gliomas in comparison to IDH‐wildtype. In the case of PMMRDIA, the inherent resistance to the standard‐of‐care temozolomide caused by MMR deficiency is an additional challenge. It is known that a gain‐of‐function mutation of IDH1/2 genes produces the oncometabolite R‐2‐hydroxyglutarate (R‐2‐HG), which increases DNA and histone methylation contributing to the characteristic glioma‐associated CpG island methylator phenotype (G‐CIMP). While other factors could be involved in remodeling the tumor microenvironment (TME) of IDH‐mutant gliomas, this systematic review emphasizes the role of R‐2‐HG and the subsequent G‐CIMP in immune suppression. This highlights a potential actionable pathway to enhance the response of ICB, which might be relevant for addressing the unmet therapeutic challenge of PMMRDIA.
Robust and Multifunctional Wetting Resistance of de novo Engineered Nonfluorinated Metal–Organic Nanocrystals for Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Solra Manju , Fathima Sherafudeen , Das Sourav , Kapila Rohit , Chaudhury Smarak I. , Rana Subinoy
Published: February 2024

Direct synthesis of zeolitic imidazole framework crystals using bulky alkyl ligands is challenging. Herein, a bottom‐up approach to de novo synthesis of a superhydrophobic zeolitic metal–organic framework called mZIF, using mixed ligands, is developed. The mZIF nanocrystals contain a newly designed alkyl chain‐substituted 4‐imidazolate ligand, achieving tailorable hydrophobicity by varying the alkyl tail length. The molecular structure presenting appropriate ligands coupled with the porosity and roughness of the coated surfaces imparts superhydrophobic properties to various coated surfaces such as glass, steel, aluminum, and plastic. The resulting surfaces exhibit a high contact angle of ≥157° and a minimal rolling‐off angle (<5°), enabling efficient oil–water separation in a filtration setup. Furthermore, dip coating the mZIF nanocrystals onto a melamine sponge modifies its water wettability, allowing for facile and efficient removal and recovery of oil from diverse oil–water mixtures with exceptional reusability. Additionally, the mZIF‐modified surfaces showcase notable self‐cleaning and anti‐icing properties. The mZIF‐coated surface shows remarkable storage stability (>1 year), durability against harsh environmental conditions, and notable resistance to mechanical abrasion. This research represents a significant advancement in the facile engineering of multifunctional metal–organic framework‐based systems tailored for diverse practical applications.
Multivariate Metal–Organic Frameworks for Programming Functions
Authors: Jiang Wentao , Liang Cong‐Cong , Zhang Yue‐Biao
Published: February 2024

Multivariate metal–organic frameworks (MTV‐MOFs) provide a handle over programming MOF's physicochemical properties for use in functional applications. In this review, the state‐of‐art design features of MTV‐MOFs are summarized, including multivariate functionalities, mixed metals, and post‐synthetic modification, and highlight their resulting fine‐tuned performance in practical applications, such as gas storage, gas separation, water harvesting, luminescence sensing, heterogeneous catalysis, and drug delivery. Furthermore, a vision is provided for future research avenues, in which MTV‐MOFs enable the incorporation of a variety of functionalities, metals, linkers, secondary building units (SBUs), and pore metrics along a specific crystallographic direction with respect to the ordered backbone. Future directions focus on mechanistic and kinetics investigations into the formation of MTV‐MOFs in addition to high‐throughput screening with the aim of automation and artificial intelligence.