bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOME PROBLEMS OF DATA SECURITY OF DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH SYSTEM
Authors: Nowacki Gabriel , Mitraszewska Izabella , Wojcechowski Andrzej , Kamiński Tomasz
Published: December 2008

The paper refers to some introduction problems of Digital Tachograph System (DTS) in EEA. It affects 25 states of the European Union and EFTA (Island, Liechtenstein, Norway) and Switzerland. The legislation principles and structure of DTS in the EU are characterized, especially Polish elements. The current state of DTS introduction in the EU Member States was also noted. Some problems of data security concern TACHONET system that ensures reliable and secure exchange of data between Member States issuing tachograph cards. The digital tachograph security principles (ITSEC) of the motion sensor, the vehicle unit and the smart cards were taken into consideration.
Pore network model for catalytic dehydration of methanol at particle level
Authors: Beigi Hossein , Dadvar Mitra , Halladj Rouein
Published: December 2008

γ‐Alumina is used as a catalyst for converting methanol to dimethyl ether. The process takes place in a packed or fluidized bed reactor consisting of microporous particles with distributed pore sizes and interconnectivities. The efficiency of the process is, however, significantly affected by the pore space structure of the particles. All the previous attempts for modeling this phenomenon have used continuum formulation of the problem based on classical equations of mass transport and reaction, without any regards for the effect of pore space morphology. In this article, we study the catalyst's performance by developing a network model for the pore space, with distributed pore sizes and interconnectivities. The network model is used to study the effect of several parameters such as pore space morphology, concentration, and temperature on catalyst's effectiveness factor. The results will be used for reactor simulations. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Kinetic modeling study of carbon nanotubes synthesis by fluidized bed chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Philippe R. , Serp P. , Kalck Ph. , Bordère S. , Plee D. , Gaillard P. , Bernard D. , Caussat B.
Published: December 2008

The kinetic and physical laws developed in the first part of the study have been implemented in a modified version of the bubbling bed Kato and Wen model to represent multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) synthesis by catalytic chemical vapor deposition from ethylene as carbon source and using an Fe/Al2O3 catalyst. The absolute deviation for MWCNT productivity between experimental results of Part 1 and simulations is of 17.3% when only considering experiments for which the bed is mainly in bubbling regime. The influence of the main operating parameters on the evolutions with time of the species molar fractions, the weight of MWCNTs formed, and the bed characteristics has been numerically studied. Such capabilities can help designing new reactors. Finally, the model has been used for scale up purposes, by increasing the reactor diameter and catalyst weight. Simulations have shown that the process productivity could reach 74 tons/year of MWCNTs in a reactor 45 cm in diameter. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Kinetic study of carbon nanotubes synthesis by fluidized bed chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Philippe R. , Serp Ph. , Kalck Ph. , Kihn Y. , Bordère S. , Plee D. , Gaillard P. , Bernard D. , Caussat B.
Published: December 2008

Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been produced with high selectivity by fluidized bed catalytic chemical vapor deposition from ethylene on Fe/Al2O3 catalysts. The influence of operating parameters such as deposition duration, temperature, ethylene and hydrogen partial pressures, and iron loading on MWCNT productivity, process selectivity, characteristics of final powders, and chemical composition of the outlet gases has been analyzed. Using gas phase chromatography, methane and ethane have been detected, whatever are the conditions used. Between 650 and 750°C, no catalyst deactivation occurs because nucleation remains active all along the synthesis, thanks to the explosion of the catalyst grains. Above 650°C, ethane itself produces MWCNTs, whereas methane does not react in the temperature range, 550–750°C. The formation of MWCNTs induces marked bed expansions and sharp decreases of grain density. Apparent kinetic laws have been deduced from the collected data. The apparent partial orders of reaction for ethylene, hydrogen, and iron were found to be 0.75, 0, and 0.28, respectively. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Production, purification, and characterization of a fusion protein of carbonic anhydrase from Neisseria gonorrhoeae and cellulose binding domain from Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Liu Zhu , Bartlow Patrick , Dilmore Robert M. , Soong Yee , Pan Zhiwei , Koepsel Richard , Ataai Mohammad
Published: December 2008

Carbon dioxide capture technologies have the potential to become an important climate change mitigation option through sequestration of gaseous CO2. A new concept for CO2 capture involves use of immobilized carbonic anhydrase (CA) that catalyzes the reversible hydration of CO2 to HCO3− and H+. Cost‐efficient production of the enzyme and an inexpensive immobilization system are critical for development of economically feasible CA‐based CO2 capture processes. An artificial, bifunctional enzyme containing CA from Neisseria gonorrhoeae and a cellulose binding domain (CBD) from Clostridium thermocellum was constructed with a His6 tag. The chimeric enzyme exhibited both CA activity and CBD binding affinity. This fusion enzyme is of particular interest due to its binding affinity for cellulose and retained CA activity, which could serve as the basis for improved technology to capture CO2 from flue gasses. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
A USB kit for digital I/O applications in a digital electronics lab designed by using PIC16C765 microcontroller
Authors: Buldu Ali , Korkmaz Hayriye
Published: December 2008

In this article, a USB Kit is designed by using Microchip's PIC16C765 microcontroller that has a low‐speed USB serial interface engine. It is used to communicate with and/or through USB port for digital I/O applications in a Digital Electronics Lab. In this education kit, two groups of keys (switches) and a group of LED are used to realize the experiments about logic gate applications included in Electronics and Computer Education Department's curriculum of Marmara University and also included in other faculties' curriculums related to the engineering science all around the world. In designed board, one of the key groups is 8‐bit software‐controlled by using simulator interface and the other is 8‐bit user‐controlled by using real switches existing on the board. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 131–138, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae20172
Effects of intravenous sm‐9527 (double‐chain tissue plasminogen activator) on left ventricular function in the chronic stage of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hayashi Hiroshi , Yamauchi Kazunobu , Saito Hidehiko , Takatsu Fumimaro , Osugi Junichi , Sone Takahito , Mizutani Noboru , Watanabe Tsutomu , Hirayama Haruo , Ogawa Hirokazu , Yamada Kazuo
Published: December 2008

Clinical effects of thrombolytic agent SM‐9527 (double‐chain tissue plasminogen activator) on left ventricular (LV) function were assessed in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). A dose of 30 × 106 IU SM‐9527 was given intravenously to patients with AMI within 6 h after onset Of 159 candidates, 20 were excluded from the trial due to diseases other than myocardial infarction or failure to meet the protocol requirements; 114 of the remaining 139 were subjected to LV function analysis. The following results were obtained: (1) Patients with successful reperfusion in response to SM‐9527 in the acute stage without later reocclusion revealed a significant improvement of LV function in the chronic stage. (2) Adverse effects were noted in 15 patients (10.8%), but none were serious; all were bleeding related to catheterization. (3) Hemagglutination fibrinolysis system test revealed no problems. It is concluded that early thrombolytic therapy with intravenous SM‐9527 for AMI provides significant improvement of LV function in the chronic stage.
Catalytic peroxidation of nitrogen monoxide and peroxynitrite by globins
Authors: De Marinis Elisabetta , Casella Luigi , Ciaccio Chiara , Coletta Massimo , Visca Paolo , Ascenzi Paolo
Published: December 2008

Globins are generally considered as carriers of diatomic gaseous ligands (e.g., O2 and NO) in metazoa. Recently, the (pseudo‐)enzymatic activity of globins towards reactive nitrogen and oxygen species has been elucidated. In particular, some globins (e.g., hemoglobin and myoglobin) catalyze the enzymatic scavenging of NO and peroxynitrite in the presence of H2O2. Indeed, H2O2 oxidizes some globins leading to the formation of water and of the heme‐protein ferryl derivative, which, in turn, oxidizes NO and peroxynitrite leading to the formation of the globin ferric species, NO2−, and NO3−. Here, we hypothesize that NO, peroxynitrite, and H2O2 are co‐substrates for the peroxidase activity of some globins, this catalytic activity was reported in 1900 for the first time, even though the substrates have never been identified firmly up to now. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(1): 62–73, 2009
Membrane androgen receptor activation in prostate and breast tumor cells: Molecular signaling and clinical impact
Authors: Papadopoulou Natalia , Papakonstanti Evangelia A. , Kallergi Galatea , Alevizopoulos Konstantinos , Stournaras Christos
Published: December 2008

In recent years, membrane androgen receptors (mARs) have been identified in prostate and breast tumor cells, and their activation by specific mAR ligands was linked to the regulation of crucial cell responses, such as cell growth, motility, and apoptosis. Analysis of the molecular signals triggered by mAR in the presence of anti‐androgens has clearly differentiated mAR‐dependent biological actions from those induced by the activation of the classical intracellular androgen receptors (iARs). In this review, we summarize the specific cellular events attributed to mAR activation and the experimental results on distinct non‐genomic signaling cascades operating in various tumor cells independently of the iAR. Furthermore, we discuss the crucial role of actin cytoskeleton organization and signaling in mediating mAR responses. Finally, we assess the clinical impact of the reported mAR‐induced apoptotic regression of prostate cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo and discuss the potential role of mAR as a novel therapeutic target. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(1): 56–61, 2009
Serpin polymerization and its role in disease—The molecular basis of α1‐antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Knaupp Anja S. , Bottomley Stephen P.
Published: December 2008

Mechanism of α1 AT polymerization. See Serpin Polymerization and Its Role in Disease—the Molecular Basis of α1‐Antitrypsin Deficiency by Knaupp and Bottomley, pp. 1–5.
Correlates of intellectual risk taking in elementary school science
Authors: Beghetto Ronald A.
Published: December 2008

This study had the goal of exploring factors associated with elementary students' (N = 585) reports of intellectual risk taking in science. Intellectual risk taking (IRT) was defined as engaging in adaptive learning behaviors (sharing tentative ideas, asking questions, attempting to do and learn new things) that placed the learner at risk of making mistakes or appearing less competent than others. Results of hierarchical regression indicate that students' reports of IRT declined by grade‐level, but were positively related to interest in science, creative self‐efficacy, and perceptions of teacher support. Of all the factors considered, interest in science was found to have the strongest unique and positive relationship with students' reports of intellectual risk taking in science. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 210–223, 2009
The Financial Times business schools ranking: What quality is this signal of quality?
Authors: Devinney Timothy , Dowling Grahame R. , Perm‐Ajchariyawong Nidthida
Published: December 2008

Abstract We suggest that the annual rankings of business schools have acquired a legitimacy that unduly defines the organizational field in a manner that makes it difficult and risky for most schools to manage to this measure of business school quality and positional status. To illustrate this we analyze the annual rankings produced by the Financial Times. This analysis illustrates that (a) these rankings are driven in large part by structural factors that many schools cannot change, (b) the ranks of the top schools are quite stable over time, and (c) the ranks of the bottom schools are quite dynamic. These effects provide a competitive advantage for the early entrants into the top ranks. Our research builds on the idea that the rankings are a social statistic that plays a crucial role in defining business school competition.
Comment: Descending from the ivory tower: reflections on the relevance and future of country‐of‐origin research
Authors: Josiassen Alexander , Harzing Anne‐Wil
Published: December 2008

Abstract In a provocative article in this journal, Jean‐Claude Usunier (2006) summarizes the critique on country of origin (COO) research and proclaims it to be ivory tower research that is of little relevance for consumers and businesses. Against this background, our paper comments on recent studies criticizing both past COO research and the relevance of the COO concept itself. We systematically counter the critique on COO research and provide reflections on the way forward for the field. Despite acknowledging Usunier's (2006) views that much research in this area might be guided by feasibility, rather than theoretical and practical relevance, and suffers from self‐referential dynamics and overspecialization, we are critical of his conclusions with regard to the extant literature, its achievements and future research. We argue that COO is still a very relevant area of research, but one that does need to address several critical challenges.
Comment: Further considerations on the relevance of country‐of‐origin research
Authors: Usunier Jean‐Claude , Cestre Ghislaine
Published: December 2008

Abstract This paper is a reply to the paper by Josiassen and Harzing about the continued relevance of country‐of‐origin (COO) research in marketing (forthcoming, EMR). It develops detailed and articulated responses to each of their arguments. Although sharing some of Josiassen and Harzing's views, this reply maintains that the case of COO research raises significant issues in terms of its relevance to marketing practice.
Molecular simulation study of self-assembly of tethered V-shaped nanoparticles
Authors: Nguyen Trung Dac , Zhang Zhenli , Glotzer Sharon C.
Published: December 2008

We use Brownian dynamics to investigate the self-assembly of single end tethered, laterally tethered, and double end tethered V-shaped nanoparticles. The simulation results are compared with model bent-core molecules without tethers and polymer tethered nanorods to elucidate the combined effects of V-shaped geometry and the immiscibility between the V-shaped nanoparticles and the tethers on the self-assembled structures. We show that the V-shaped geometry significantly alters the phase diagram of tethered nanoparticles and further that the immiscibility between particles and tethers leads to structures not previously predicted for bent-core molecules. Examples of mesophases predicted include honeycomb, hexagonally packed cylinders, and perforated lamellar phases.
Temperature-dependent interfacial carrier transport in low-dimensional oxides using ionic conductor-insulator (YDZ-SiO2) superlattices
Authors: Karthikeyan Annamalai , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: December 2008

There is a tremendous interest in understanding mechanisms governing ion and electron transport along interfaces in low-dimensional systems. We report on high temperature ion transport using a model superlattice system consisting of oxygen-ion-conducting yttria-doped zirconia (YDZ) and insulating layers (silica and alumina) of varying conducting layer thickness in the range of 3–33 nm. Total in-plane conductivity shows nearly fivefold increase in conductivity when the YDZ layer thickness decreases from 33 to 3 nm while the total film thickness is held constant. Analysis of the conductivity data shows that volume contributions are dominant when film thickness is ≥210 nm. Activation energies for volume and interfacial oxygen-ion transport have been estimated.
Global dissipativity analysis on uncertain neural networks with mixed time-varying delays
Authors: Song Qiankun , Cao Jinde
Published: December 2008

In this paper, the problems of global dissipativity and global exponential dissipativity are investigated for uncertain neural networks with discrete time-varying delay and distributed time-varying delay as well as general activation functions. By constructing appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals and employing Newton–Leibniz formulation and linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique, several new criteria for checking the global dissipativity and global exponential dissipativity of the addressed neural networks are established in terms of LMI, which can be checked numerically using the effective LMI toolbox in MATLAB. Illustrated examples are given to show the effectiveness and decreased conservatism of the proposed criteria in comparison with some existing results. It is noteworthy that the traditional assumptions on the differentiability of the time-varying delays and the boundedness of its derivative are removed.
Heat-capacity measurements on small samples: The hybrid method
Authors: Klaasse J. C. P. , Brűck E. H.
Published: December 2008

A newly developed method is presented for measuring heat capacities on small samples, particularly where thermal isolation is not sufficient for the use of the traditional semiadiabatic heat-pulse technique. This “hybrid technique” is a modification of this heat-pulse method in case the temperature drift of the sample after the heat pulse is not linear but exponential. Deliberate extrapolations of these exponential drift curves, dependent on the evaluated relaxation time, yield reliable results for the temperature steps. The method is faster than the traditional relaxation method, and by comparing with the values published by the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) on copper, the accuracy is shown to be of the order of 1%.
Anomalous melting behavior under extreme conditions: Hard matter turning “soft”
Authors: Malescio Gianpietro , Saija Franz , Prestipino Santi
Published: December 2008

We show that a system of particles interacting through the exp-6 pair potential, commonly used to describe effective interatomic forces under high compression, exhibits anomalous melting features such as reentrant melting and a rich solid polymorphism, including a stable BC8 crystal. We relate this behavior to the crossover, with increasing pressure, between two different regimes of local order that are associated with the two repulsive length scales of the potential. Our results provide a unifying picture for the high-pressure melting anomalies observed in many elements and point out that, under extreme conditions, atomic systems may reveal surprising similarities with soft matter.
“Hump” characteristics and edge effects in polysilicon thin film transistors
Authors: Valletta A. , Gaucci P. , Mariucci L. , Fortunato G. , Templier F.
Published: December 2008

Transfer characteristics of polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon) thin film transistors (TFTs) often show a “hump” in subthreshold regime. This effect, also observed in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) transistors, can be attributed to the presence of an enhanced electrical field at edges of the channel, which is related to the specific shape of the edge and its surrounding oxide. In this paper we attempt an analysis of the hump effect in polysilicon TFTs combining electrical measurements and two dimensional numerical simulations, and considering several geometries of the channel edge. The transfer characteristics showing the hump effect are analyzed in terms of a parallel of the main (“bulk”) transistor with two parasitic transistors located at the channel edges. The main and parasitic transistors have different threshold voltages and subthreshold swings and the equivalent parallel circuit reproduces very well the experimental transfer characteristics. The effect on the hump of interface states and oxide fixed charge, localized at the edge regions, is also analyzed and it is found that a degradation of the edge interfaces can easily lead to a hump reduction, thus explaining the large variability in this effect observed for different devices and different processes.
Development of a scanning surface probe for nanoscale tip-enhanced desorption/ablation
Authors: Meyer Kent A. , Ovchinnikova Olga , Ng Kin , Goeringer Douglas E.
Published: December 2008

We report on the development of a versatile scanning apparatus for nanoscale surface sampling that utilizes the interaction of laser radiation at a sharp probe tip to effect desorption/ablation on opaque substrates. The process, which currently yields surface craters as small as ∼50 nm diameter×5 nm deep, has been demonstrated with both metal-coated and bare silicon tips. Desorption/ablation under the tip occurs at illumination intensities below the corresponding optical far-field threshold, suggesting that the latter process should not degrade the spatial resolution attainable for proposed chemical imaging methods based on the scanning surface probe.
Three-dimensional localization of CENP-A suggests a complex higher order structure of centromeric chromatin
Authors: Marshall Owen J. , Marshall Alan T. , Choo K.H. Andy
Published: December 2008

The histone H3 variant centromere protein A (CENP-A) is central to centromere formation throughout eukaryotes. A long-standing question in centromere biology has been the organization of CENP-A at the centromere and its implications for the structure of centromeric chromatin. In this study, we describe the three-dimensional localization of CENP-A at the inner kinetochore plate through serial-section transmission electron microscopy of human mitotic chromosomes. At the kinetochores of normal centromeres and at a neocentromere, CENP-A occupies a compact domain at the inner kinetochore plate, stretching across two thirds of the length of the constriction but encompassing only one third of the constriction width and height. Within this domain, evidence of substructure is apparent. Combined with previous chromatin immunoprecipitation results (Saffery, R., H. Sumer, S. Hassan, L.H. Wong, J.M. Craig, K. Todokoro, M. Anderson, A. Stafford, and K.H.A. Choo. 2003. Mol. Cell. 12:509–516; Chueh, A.C., L.H. Wong, N. Wong, and K.H.A. Choo. 2005. Hum. Mol. Genet. 14:85–93), our data suggest that centromeric chromatin is arranged in a coiled 30-nm fiber that is itself coiled or folded to form a higher order structure.
The microtubule-binding protein CLIP-170 coordinates mDia1 and actin reorganization during CR3-mediated phagocytosis
Authors: Lewkowicz Elodie , Herit Floriane , Le Clainche Christophe , Bourdoncle Pierre , Perez Franck , Niedergang Florence
Published: December 2008

Microtubule dynamics are modulated by regulatory proteins that bind to their plus ends (+TIPs [plus end tracking proteins]), such as cytoplasmic linker protein 170 (CLIP-170) or end-binding protein 1 (EB1). We investigated the role of +TIPs during phagocytosis in macrophages. Using RNA interference and dominant-negative approaches, we show that CLIP-170 is specifically required for efficient phagocytosis triggered by αMβ2 integrin/complement receptor activation. This property is not observed for EB1 and EB3. Accordingly, whereas CLIP-170 is dynamically enriched at the site of phagocytosis, EB1 is not. Furthermore, we observe that CLIP-170 controls the recruitment of the formin mDia1, an actin-nucleating protein, at the onset of phagocytosis and thereby controls actin polymerization events that are essential for phagocytosis. CLIP-170 directly interacts with the formin homology 2 domain of mDia1. The interaction between CLIP-170 and mDia1 is negatively regulated during αMβ2-mediated phagocytosis. Our results unravel a new microtubule/actin cooperation that involves CLIP-170 and mDia1 and that functions downstream of αMβ2 integrins.
Coordinated control of self-renewal and differentiation of neural stem cells by Myc and the p19ARF–p53 pathway
Authors: Nagao Motoshi , Campbell Kenneth , Burns Kevin , Kuan Chia-Yi , Trumpp Andreas , Nakafuku Masato
Published: December 2008

The modes of proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) are coordinately controlled during development, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we show that the protooncoprotein Myc and the tumor suppressor p19ARF regulate both NSC self-renewal and their neuronal and glial fate in a developmental stage–dependent manner. Early-stage NSCs have low p19ARF expression and retain a high self-renewal and neurogenic capacity, whereas late-stage NSCs with higher p19ARF expression possess a lower self-renewal capacity and predominantly generate glia. Overexpression of Myc or inactivation of p19ARF reverts the properties of late-stage NSCs to those of early-stage cells. Conversely, inactivation of Myc or forced p19ARF expression attenuates self-renewal and induces precocious gliogenesis through modulation of the responsiveness to gliogenic signals. These actions of p19ARF in NSCs are mainly mediated by p53. We propose that opposing actions of Myc and the p19ARF–p53 pathway have important functions in coordinated developmental control of self-renewal and cell fate choices in NSCs.
Nanotubes, exosomes, and nucleic acid–binding peptides provide novel mechanisms of intercellular communication in eukaryotic cells: implications in health and disease
Authors: Belting Mattias , Wittrup Anders
Published: December 2008

The prevailing view that eukaryotic cells are restrained from intercellular exchange of genetic information has been challenged by recent reports on nanotubes, exosomes, apoptotic bodies, and nucleic acid–binding peptides that provide novel pathways for cell–cell communication, with implications in health and disease.
Does Voting History Matter? Analysing Persistence in Turnout
Authors: Denny Kevin , Doyle Orla
Published: December 2008

Individuals who vote in one election are more likely to vote in the next. Yet modelling the causal relationship between past and current voting decisions is intrinsically difficult, as this positive association can exist due to habit formation or unobserved heterogeneity. This article overcomes this problem using longitudinal data from the British National Child Development Study (NCDS) to examine voter turnout across three elections. It distinguishes between unobserved heterogeneity caused by fixed individual characteristics and the initial conditions problem, which occurs when voting behavior in a previous, but unobserved, period influences current voting behavior. It finds that, controlling for fixed effects, unobserved heterogeneity has little impact on the estimated degree of habit in voter turnout; however, failing to control for initial conditions reduces the estimate by a half. The results imply that voting in one election increases the probability of voting in a subsequent election by 13%.
Villous adenoma of the rectum with electrolyte depletion, diabetes and hypogonadism
Authors: Bamford J K , Galbraith H-J B , Pender B W T
Published: December 2008

The case of a woman with a large benign villous papilloma of the rectum, presenting with sodium and water depletion and later complicated by persistent hypokalaemia, is described. The patient also suffered from primary hypogonadism and diabetes.
Sideropenic anaemia with reticulo-endothelial siderosis in a case of hypernephroma
Authors: Chatterjee K , MacLellan G E
Published: December 2008

A case of sideropenic anaemia with reticuloendothelial siderosis is described. At the time of admission the anaemia was severe and the cause was not apparent. Extensive search had to be made to reveal the neoplasm, a hypernephroma.
Thyroid and adrenal relationships
Authors: Parsons Victor , Ramsay Ian
Published: December 2008

A brief review of the actions of adrenal medullary and thyroid hormones is presented and the ways in which they interact are examined. It is concluded that thyroid hormone produces the necessary intracellular environment without which the steady state and emergency actions of cathecholamines would be vitiated. In hyperthyroidism the increased concentration of thyroid hormones results in a lowering of the threshold for catecholamine action. For this reason it is possible to alleviate many of the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis by means of drugs which block β-adrenergic receptors.

Attention is also drawn to the simultaneous occurrence of thyroid and adrenal disease, in the hope that this will encourage the search for further links in this field of endocrinology.
Observations on Melkersson’s syndrome
Authors: Scott George A
Published: December 2008

The findings in nine cases of Melkersson’s syndrome are presented. It is suggested that this condition is less uncommon than is generally realized. A careful personal and family history should be taken in all cases of Bell’s palsy, and the tongue examined, if this syndrome is to be recognized. Observations are made on the possible aetiology and on treatment.
Plasma ‘ketone’ level in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic acidosis
Authors: Knapp M S , Horn Margaret E
Published: December 2008

A simple method of estimating the plasma ‘ketone’ level with ‘Acetest’ tablets has been used in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic acidosis. The method is valuable when used in association with full biochemical facilities, but it is especially useful in situations where these cannot be easily obtained.
The management of myelomatosis
Authors: Broad A F , Godlee J N , Emery E W , Prankerd T A J
Published: December 2008

Thirty-six out of sixty-two cases of myelomatosis have been treated with melphalan.

Platelet counts were used as a guide to dosage early in the course of treatment, after which a more empirical dosage (0·15 mg/kg/day) was used in 1-week courses given every 12 weeks.

Rapid deterioration and death occur in a small number of patients whatever therapy is given.

In the group treated with melphalan the median survival time was 25 months, longer than in those treated with radiotherapy or other chemotherapeutic agents.
Experiences with carbenicillin in the treatment of septicaemia and meningitis
Authors: Richardson A E , James K W , Spittle Constance R , Robinson O P W
Published: December 2008

Experiences in the use of carbenicillin, a new penicillin active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Gram-negative bacteria in the treatment of septicaemia and meningitis are described. Blood levels of carbenicillin in excess of the levels required to inhibit the infecting organisms were obtained using intravenous infusions of large doses together with probenecid by mouth. High cerebrospinal fluid levels of carbenicillin were ensured in the meningitis patients with daily intrathecal or intraventricular injections. Carbenicillin undoubtedly controlled the course of Ps. aeruginosa septicaemia in two patients.

Rapid sterilization of the cerebrospinal fluid was achieved in both meningitis patients with clinical improvement.

No evidence of toxicity was seen and daily intrathecal injections were well tolerated.
Agnogenic myeloid metaplasia: role of splenectomy
Authors: Marks Charles , Ahmadi Mahmood
Published: December 2008

The splenomegaly associated with myelofibrosis and agnogenic myeloid metaplasia should not be considered a manifestation of the fundamental proliferative process, nor should it be considered as necessarily compensatory for reduced marrow haematopoiesis.

In deserving cases splenectomy may cause an improvement in the patient’s general and haematopoietic status. Removal of the source of functional hypersplenism, causing haemolytic episodes and thrombocytopenia, results in marked amelioration in the clinical condition with reduction in the magnitude and frequency of replacement blood transfusion.

The massive size of the spleen associated with this condition may not only cause local pain and discomfort but may lead to traumatic or spontaneous rupture.

Consideration of two cases studied by the authors indicates that marked clinical improvement may be associated with splenectomy in selected cases of agnogenic myeloid metaplasia.
Metabolic and tissue effects of prolonged catecholamine infusion
Authors: Eltringham W K , Jenny M E , Morgan A P
Published: December 2008

In recent years it has become clear that the free fatty acids of the plasma represent the major form of transport for lipid mobilized from the stored triglyceride in peripheral adipose tissue.

There is evidence that lipid mobilization is increased after trauma, burns and shock with depletion of the peripheral lipid stores and an increase in the circulating free fatty acids.

In this study lipid mobilization was induced in unanaesthetized dogs by continuous noradrenaline infusion at a rate of 1 μg/kg/min. A marked rise of the free fatty acids occurred and was associated with triglyceride deposition in tissues not normally the site of lipid storage. This change affected principally the liver, but to a lesser degree other organs including the lungs.

The possible significance of this lipid mobilization in the human setting is discussed.
Sodium, potassium and water metabolism in myxoedema
Authors: Surveyor Ivor
Published: December 2008

In a combined radioactive isotope study, Nae, Ke, bromine space and total body water were measured in a group of fourteen hypothyroid subjects. These were compared with a ‘control’ group.

Total body water and Nae were found to be increased in the hypothyroid subjects.

In seven subjects, the measurements were repeated after treatment with thyroid hormone. Most of the subjects lost weight and showed a decrease in total body water, but changes in Nae, Ke and bromine space were variable.

The cause and nature of the fluid and electrolyte retention in myxoedema are discussed and reasons are advanced for the apparent inconsistencies in the results obtained in this and other studies.
A family with Alport’s syndrome
Authors: Jain P
Published: December 2008

Alport’s syndrome has been diagnosed in members of four successive generations of one family.

Renal biopsy was performed in two of these patients. The syndrome is briefly reviewed.
Cephalexin—a new oral antibiotic
Authors: Bailey Alan , Hadley A , Walker Allan , James D Geraint
Published: December 2008

The pharmacology, antimicrobial activity and clinical uses of cephalexin, a semi-synthetic derivative of cephalosporin C, are described.

Cephalexin is active, when taken by mouth, against Gram-positive cocci, including penicillinase-producing staphylococci, and against many Gram-negative organisms including Gram-negative rods.

There is a low incidence of side effects.
A clinical computer and monitor
Authors: Greer J R B
Published: December 2008

The key to the early warning of a deteriorating clinical situation lies in the change in parameters rather than in their absolute value. This not only colours the choice of sensor, but also affects the design of the discriminators between the sensors and the logic circuits.

While the sensors and logic are clearly the most important parts of the equipment, it is probably the presentation of information which will in the end decide the extent to which it is used by nursing staff, and every care must be taken to ensure, not only that false alarms are minimized, but that genuine alarms do not cause unnecessary agitation of the patient.
The treatment of varicose leg ulcers by hyperbaric oxygen
Authors: Bass B H
Published: December 2008

Hyperbaric oxygen at 2 atmospheres pressure was administered to nineteen cases of chronic varicose leg ulceration. Treatment was given for 2 hr on 5 days of each week. Bacterial infection of the ulcers was suppressed, and drying of the lesions occurred within hours of commencing treatment. Epithelialization of healthy granulation tissue was a constant feature. Simple venous ulcers consistently responded better than those cases where arterial insufficiency was present. No adverse reactions were observed. Seventeen of the nineteen patients had their ulcers healed after a mean exposure to OHP of 60·7 hr.
An acceptable slow-release phosphate preparation ‘Slow P’
Authors: Parsons Victor , Porter Andrew , Parsons Valerie , Lund Christopher
Published: December 2008

Slow P has been an acceptable form of oral phosphate therapy in a series of patients with a variety of bone disease. Therapeutic responses have been achieved in a number of patients without side effects together with minor elevation of the serum and urinary phosphate in the majority of patients. Some patients have continued with such supplements for several months which encourages an extended trial under more stringent conditions.
Hypercalcaemia in thyrotoxicosis with and without hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Richards Anthony J
Published: December 2008

Two cases of thyrotoxicosis with hypercalcaemia are reported. The hypercalcaemia in one of the patients was a manifestation of hyperthyroidism and in the other was due to co-existent hyperparathyroidism.

The literature is reviewed and the effect of thyroid hormone on calcium metabolism is discussed. Routine plasma calcium estimations should be performed in all cases of thyrotoxicosis.
The Kveim test in sarcoidosis
Authors: Mikhail J R , Mitchell D N
Published: December 2008

The Kveim test with a validated test-suspension was found to give an overall 71·9% positive result. A very high figure was obtained among patients with hilar or paratracheal gland involvement.

Despite our enumeration of the difficulties and drawbacks inherent in Kveim testing, we find that this is a valuable test, providing one is aware of the pitfalls. Despite the finding of positive tests in conditions other than sarcoidosis, these are unlikely in practice to present a clinical problem in the differential diagnosis of suspected sarcoidosis. A microscopically positive test, therefore, remains clinically valuable.

The test is also of very considerable importance in the clinical research into aetiology and pathogenesis of sarcoidosis.
The fine structure of sarcoid and tuberculous granulomas
Authors: Williams W Jones , James E M Valerie , Erasmus D A , Davies T
Published: December 2008

The granulomas of sarcoidosis and non-caseating tuberculosis show similar cell-types: two forms of epithelioid cells, A and B, giant cells, lymphocytes and ‘activated’ mononuclear cells. The morphology of epithelioid cells suggests that they are primarily biosynthetic rather than phagocytic.

The relationship of these various cells to each other is discussed and the following sequence of granuloma development is suggested: circulating lymphocyte → activated mononuclears → A → B epithelioid cell whose secretory product stimulates transformation of other circulating lymphocytes.
Plasma cholesterol after myocardial infarction
Authors: Cotton Susan G
Published: December 2008

Serial plasma cholesterol estimations were made at intervals up to 13 weeks after myocardial infarction in fourteen men. Wide fluctuations in these levels, occasionally in excess of 100 mg/100 ml were found during the first 3 weeks and subsequently.

The general trend was towards lowest levels about the end of the first week. The 3-week level was frequently not typical of subsequent levels, which may have been influenced by seasonal variation and body weight changes.
A department of social and preventive medicine in a district general hospital
Authors: McQuillan W J , Williams B T
Published: December 2008

The Bonham-Carter Report on the Functions of the District General Hospital favoured the idea of locating a department or office of the local health authority at the district general hospital, in order to help in achieving functional integration of the hospital and community health services.

This paper describes the establishment and development of such a department in a district general hospital, outlines its functions and describes some of the projects undertaken.
Eye survey—Mrewa Trust Lands
Authors: Jamieson S W
Published: December 2008

In a remote area of Rhodesia, 4051 rural Africans were examined. Emphasis was placed on examination of the eye although attention was also devoted to any other complaints. The main finding was of a follicular conjunctivitis, two-thirds of these cases being judged to be due to trachoma. Pathology was found more frequently in the younger patients, in whom there was a high incidence of acute purulent conjunctivitis. In older patients cataract and conjunctival growths were found to be common. Many patients had multiple disorders.

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies were also seen and treated, and many other medical disorders were recorded.

The major weapon in combating general infection and eye disease would be a basic education in hygiene, and this is being put into practice.
Prostaglandins: a report on early clinical studies
Authors: Hinman J W
Published: December 2008

The prostaglandins are a unique group of pharmacologically active lipids which are widely distributed in mammalian tissues and body fluids. The chemistry of this family of compounds has been established in elegant detail. Research quantities of these highly active natural compounds were obtained by enzymatic bioconversion of essential fatty acids and now studies devoted to the elucidation of their physiological roles and their clinical potential are progressing rapidly. Fields of greatest current interest in clinical medicine include renal-cardiovascular research, induction of labour and therapeutic abortion, control of the reproductive cycle (including fertility control), bronchodilation, enhancement of nasal patency and antisecretory activity. Results available to date are too preliminary for many conclusions to be drawn, but are sufficiently encouraging to assure continued and expanding efforts in several fields.
Observations on the treatment of rheumatoid disease with penicillamine
Authors: Golding John R , Wilson J V , Day Albert T
Published: December 2008

Forty-five patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis were given D-penicillamine hydrochloride according to a fixed regimen for up to 2 years. The effects of treatment were observed both clinically and by the use of laboratory parameters.

The results show that about 75% of patients exhibited objective improvement. Those with rheumatoid arthritis were found to do particularly well. The incidence, type and severity of side-effects are discussed.
The definition and evaluation of the skills required to obtain a patient’s history of illness: the use of videotape recordings
Authors: Anderson J , Dowling M A C , Day J L , Pettingale K W
Published: December 2008

Videotape recording apparatus was used to make records of case histories obtained from patients by students and doctors. These records were studied in order to identify the skills required to obtain a patient’s history of illness. Each skill was defined. A questionnaire was developed in order to assess these skills and three independent observers watched the records of eighteen students and completed a questionnaire for each. The results of this were analysed for reliability and reproducibility between examiners. Moderate reliability and reproducibility were demonstrated. The questionnaire appeared to be a valid method of assessment and was capable of providing significant discrimination between students for each skill. A components analysis suggested that the marks for each skill depend on an overall impression obtained by each examiner and this overall impression is influenced by different skills for each examiner.
The hyperlipoproteinaemias
Authors: Levene D L
Published: December 2008

Elevated plasma lipids have been associated with an increased risk of ischaemic heart disease. However, regimens which reduce plasma lipids may decrease the recurrence rate of myocardial infarction. Accurate diagnosis of patients with elevated lipids and their families may be important in both secondary and primary prevention of atherosclerosis.

Classification of hyperlipoproteinaemias, the methods of diagnosis and an approach to dietary and drug therapy are discussed.
Experimental approaches to the prophylaxis and treatment of ischaemic heart disease
Authors: Fitzgerald J D
Published: December 2008

This paper describes some of the basic hypotheses on which our research in the cardiovascular field has been based. The difficulties and shortcomings of the experimental models used and our reliance on guidance from clinical science has been emphasized. The properties, effects and mode of action of the drugs resulting from our cardiovascular research have been described.
Hyperosmolar non-ketotic diabetes
Authors: Macaulay Michael B
Published: December 2008

Hyperosmolar non-ketotic crises occur chiefly in mild, maturity-onset diabetics, yet present a medical emergency carrying a high mortality. This may in part be due to a lack of awareness of the clinical presentation, and of the principles of treatment. Five cases are described, in all of which excessive consumption of Lucozade, a proprietary ‘glucose’ drink, played an important part in the development of their hyperosmolar state.
Gastric ulcer and the anti-arthritic drugs
Authors: Emmanuel J H , Montgomery R D
Published: December 2008

Sixteen cases are described of gastric ulcer in patients receiving anti-arthritic drugs. Half of the ulcers were in the antrum or on the greater curve. Ten patients were under treatment with indomethacin and/or prednisone, seven of them receiving both drugs.

The ulcers healed readily when the drugs were withdrawn, and in the case of prednisone a continued daily dose of 10 mg or less did not prevent healing.

All the patients with haemorrhage were taking aspirin, with or without other drugs.

The literature is reviewed, and it is suggested that the increased incidence of peptic ulcer in patients receiving anti-arthritic drugs is confined to gastric ulcer. There is suggestive evidence of an increased susceptibility to antral ulcer in severe rheumatoid disease, which may largely account for the ‘steroid ulcer’.

Indomethacin is potentially ulcerogenic, and its combined use with steroids may be inadvisable. Apart from its tendency to produce haemorrhagic erosions, the role of aspirin in the aetiology of chronic ulcer remains doubtful. No serious ill-effects have been reported in the use of ibuprofen or Distalgesic in ulcer subjects.
Osteomalacia following vagotomy and pyloroplasty
Authors: Mitchell A B S , Glass D , Gill A Morton
Published: December 2008

Osteomalacia, due to defective absorption of adequate dietary vitamin D, has been found in a 79-year-old woman, 5 years after an anterior selective vagotomy and pyloroplasty.

The evolution of the recognition of postgastrectomy osteomalacia is reviewed, and reasons are advanced why similar problems are to be expected following vagotomy and pyloroplasty.
Effect of diazepam (Valium) on dialysable thyroxine
Authors: Saldanha V F , Bird R , Havard C W H
Published: December 2008

Short-term treatment with diazepam constantly reduced the level of protein-bound iodine, the percentage dialysable thyroxine and the ‘free’ thyroxine iodine in ten euthyroid individuals, but the serum levels remained within the normal range.

The relevance of these findings to the effect of diazepam on thyroid function is discussed.