bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sewage sludge ash (SSA) on the mechanical performance and corrosion levels of reinforced Portland cement mortars
Authors: Alcocel E. G.ª , Garcés P. , Martínez J. J. , Payá J. , Andión L. G.ª
Published: October 2008

The article describes a study conducted to determinecorrosion in reinforcement embedded in Portland cement(PC) mortars with different percentages of sewage sludgeash (SSA) admixtures. The polarization resistancetechnique was used to determine the steel corrosion rate(Icorr) in the test specimens. The samples were subjectedto different environmental conditions and aggressiveagents: 100% relative humidity (RH), accelerated carbonationat 70% RH and seawater immersion. Portlandcement was partially substituted for SSA in the mixes atrates of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 60% (by mass) to make thedifferent mortars. The results show that where cementwas replaced by SSA at rates of up to 10% by mass,mortar corrosion performance was comparable to thebehaviour observed in SSA-free mortars (control mortar:0% SSA). Data for higher rates are also shown. From themechanical standpoint, SSA exhibited moderate pozzolanicactivity and the best performance when SSA wasadded at a rate of 10% to mixes with a water/(binder:PC + SSA) (w/b) ratio of 0.5.
Shear strength of match cast dry joints of precast concrete segmental bridges: proposal for Eurocode 2
Authors: Turmo J. , Ramos G. , Aparicio J. A.
Published: October 2008

This paper discusses a study on the performance of concretesegmental bridges with shear keys, focusing on theshear behaviour of castellated dry joints under ultimatelimit state conditions. The widely varying formulationused to evaluate joint shear strength were compiled,along with the experimental results published in the literatureon the subject. The various approaches were evaluatedby comparing their predictions of ultimate jointstrength to published empirical findings. The formulagiving the best prediction was adapted to the safety factorprovisions set out in Eurocode 2.
Archaeometric study of bricks from the ancient defence walls around the town of Pavia in northern Italy
Authors: Setti M. , Nicola C. , López-Galindo A. , Lodola S. , Maccabruni C. , Veniale F.
Published: October 2008

A study was conducted on bricks sampled from the defense walls around the historic town of Pavia (northern Italy) erected during Roman (uncertain) and “Spanish”(sixteenth-seventeenth centuries) times. An analysis of colour, macro- and micro-chemical composition,mineralogical clusters and structural-textural features showed that similar raw materials were used in the manufacture of these bricks, although certain variations were identified: particle size is finer in Roman bricks, while the “Spanish” version contains ground carbonate and “chamotte” additives. The “Spanish” bricks,fired at lower temperatures, are more porous. The wide range of firing temperatures used to make “Spanish” bricks was very likely related to the intended use. The sporadic presence of maghemite is discussed in the context of the atmosphere prevailing in the kilns. The “Spanish” bricks are lighter in colour as a result of their carbonate content and lower firing temperature. These characteristics, which affect the weather resistance of the different types of brick, should be taken into account in restoration work.
Composite cements containing natural pozzolan and granulated blast furnace slag
Authors: Bonavetti V. L. , Menéndez G. , Donza H. A. , Rahhal V. F. , Irassar E. F.
Published: October 2008

For reasons of market demand and Portland cement production,the manufacture of cements with two or more separately ground additions to produce customized cements is becoming common practice.When pozzolan or slag content in this type of cements is high, however, the initial strength of the resulting product may be adversely impacted. This problem can be minimized by activating one or both of the replacement materials. The present study analyzes the effect of Portland cement additions such as physically activated natural pozzolan(up to 20%) and/or granulated blast furnace slag (up to 35%) on mortar flexural and compressive strength. The results show that higher strength is attained in ternary than binary cements. Initially (2 and 7 days), the highest compressive strengths are reached by mortars with up to 13% natural pozzolan and 5% slag, whereas at later ages mortars with larger proportions of additions are found to perform best.
Effect of polycarboxylate admixture structure on cement paste rheology
Authors: Alonso M. M. , Palacios M. , Puertas F. , De la Torre A. G. , Aranda M. A. G.
Published: October 2008

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the effect of the structural differences in four polycarboxylate and polyether admixtures on the rheological properties of cement pastes with different chemical and mineralogical compositions and different active additions (CEM I 42.5 R, CEM I 52.5 R, CEM I 52.5 N/SR, CEM II/AV 42.5R, CEM II/B-L 32.5 R, CEM III/B 32.5R, BL I 52.5R and CAC – European standard EN 197-1:2000). The results of the minislump test concurred with the variations observed in the values of the rheological parameters (shear stress and plastic viscosity). The structural characteristic of the admixtures found to play the most prominent role in their fluidizing effect was the proportion of carboxylate (CG) and polyether (EG) group components. In cements characteristics such as fineness and the C3A/calcium sulphate and C3S/C3A ratios were also observed to be essential to admixture effectiveness. In this regard, the rheological parameters varied most widely in CEM I 52.5N/SR pastes and least in BL I 52.5R cement pastes. Of the additioned cements, the CEM III/B 32.5R pastes, which contained granulated blast furnace slag, showed the highest rises in flowability. Finally, the fluidizing effect of polycarboxylate superplasticizers was much more intense in calcium aluminate cements, although flowability declined rapidly in this material.
Tests on concrete containing cork powder admixtures
Authors: González B. , Llamas B. , Juan A. , Guerra I.
Published: October 2008

The present study aimed to determine the physical and mechanical properties of laboratory concrete made with different proportions of cork powder. While the resulting material lacked the mechanical strength characteristic of concrete, its properties may prove to be apt for certain hardscaping and agricultural uses, such as in the manufacture of pavement for playgrounds and parks, or certain kinds of structures used in livestock raising. These findings need to be analyzed and verified.
Petrophysical characterization of three commercial varieties of miocene sandstones from the Ebro valley
Authors: Buj O. , Gisbert J.
Published: October 2008

Miocene sandstones studied were used extensively to build Aragon’s architectural heritage, are still used in modern construction. The quarries presently located on the edge of the Ebro Valley depression. The present paper describes an exhaustive petrophysical study of these materials, which while, of the same age and from the same deposition basin, exhibit different mineralogical and textural characteristics and as a result, different physical and mechanical properties and durability. The petrographic and petrophysical characteristics of these materials were evaluated with tests prescribed in UNE (Spanish), NORMAL and ASTM standards. All the results were subjected to statistical analysis to identify possible textural and compositional nonuniformities in the material that may underlie behavioural changes. The results of the present paper show that their petrophysical characteristics afford these sandstones substantial industrial value as construction materials. Durability was found to be longest in the Alcañiz stone, as a result of the geometry of its pore network.
Technical Note: Historic gypsum-kilns (Morata de Tajuña, Madrid)
Authors: Puche Riart O. , Mazadiego Martínez L. F. , Ortiz Menéndez J. E. , Llamas Borrajo J. F.
Published: October 2008

In the locality of Morata de Tajuña and surroundings there was an important settlement of gypsum pits and limekilns, together with other historical industries, now disappear. These activities were developed mainly during the 1960´s and 70´s, but its production decreased because of changes in the productive processes (substitution of discontinuous processes by continuous ones, higher kilns, etc.) (1). Nevertheless, some of these furnaces still remain, as well as ancient workers who have provided important information. Within the research project funded by the Madrid´s Government, entitled: Industrial archaeology: Conservation of the mining and metallurgical heritage of Madrid (IV), ancient gypsum pits have been identified and inventoried. The ancient gypsiferous extraction history was recovered and the productive processes fluxes were reconstructed. The state of the heritage is evaluated and the conservation of some of the elements is recommended. Likewise, the intangible heritage was also investigated, being able to show a legend related with these kilns.
Alteration of granite stone used in building construction
Authors: Esbert Alemany R. M.ª
Published: October 2008

The article contains a synthesis of the different factors involved in the alteration of granite ashlars or cladding used in building construction. Emphasis is placed on the – primarily fissure-like – anisotropies often present in granite, which are usually related to the structural conditions of the quarry where it is mined. Such anisotropies condition the development of certain types of alterations that appear over time, particularly in ashlars. Stone petrography, particularly as regards the chemical composition of the minerals comprising granite, also govern its alteration. Moreover, the commercial term granite often includes other more alkaline rocks generically known as granitoids, whose alterability is higher than in granite per se. The values of some of the physical properties of these rocks, which must be quantified to evaluate their durability, are shown to differ in keeping with their anisotropy. Finally, the forms, causes and mechanisms involved in granite decay are reviewed in the context of its use in building construction.
Laser heating: a minimally invasive technique for studying fire-generated heating in building stone
Authors: Gómez-Heras Miguel , Fort Rafael , Morcillo Miguel , Molpeceres Carlos , Ocaña José Luis
Published: October 2008

Due to the irreparable damage it can cause, fire is one of the major risks to buildings. Recent studies on the effects of fire tend to focus on micro-scale analysis, addressing questions such as micro-cracking or mineralogical or chemical changes that are particularly relevant to listed buildings.The fire simulation techniques employed to date (convection heating laboratory furnaces and real flame tests) are subject to a series of limitations including non-repeatability, the lack of combustion by-products and, most importantly, the need to work with large samples. In this final context, techniques must be found that require only minimal sample sizes.This paper introduces laser irradiation as a technique suitable for simulating the “combustion” of building materials, since it mimics the physics of fire, is repeatable, yields combustion products and, most importantly, can be applied to small specimens. Indeed, as laser irradiation concentrates high amounts of energy in small areas, it can be used for micro-scale testing.
Alternative concrete based on alkali-activated slag
Authors: Rodríguez E. , Bernal S. , Mejía de Gutiérrez R. , Puertas F.
Published: October 2008

This article reports the results of related to on the performance of concrete made with waterglass (Na2SiO3•nH2O + NaOH)-activated Colombian granulated blast furnace slag. The mechanical strength and durability properties this alkali-activated slag concrete (AAS) were compared to the properties of ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPC) with the same proportion of binder, which ranged from 340 to 512 kg per m3 of concrete. The results indicated that increasing the proportion of slag led to improvements in the properties studied.
Geopolymerization of lightweight aggregate waste
Authors: Soares P. , Pinto A. T. , Ferreira V. M. , Labrincha J. A.
Published: October 2008

Geopolymerization is a viable way to process and re-use alumino-silicate industrial waste while producing highstrength, high chemical inertia materials that can effectively immobilize other industrial by-products, and even hazardous waste. In this study industrial waste from different stages of the manufacture of lightweight expanded clay aggregate was characterized for its possible transformation, via alkali activation, to geopolymers. The ultimate aim was to assess the possibility of using such geopolymers to develop thermal and acoustic insulation panels. The containment of hazardous materials is another important application for these new materials. Geopolymers were prepared for this study with different particles size distributions and activator concentrations. Their mechanical properties, composition and microstructure were characterized and a material with promising insulating properties was produced. A preliminary analysis was conducted of the salt formation observed in these geopolymers, the chief drawback to their use.
Frequency of erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency in Chinese infants
Authors: Wu Zi‐Liang , Yu Wei‐Dong , Chen Shun‐Cun
Published: October 2008

The incidence of deficiency of the enzyme pyruvate kinase (PK) in Chinese infants was determined. Both the standard assay of erythrocyte pyruvate kinase enzyme activity and a fluorescent screening test (standardized) were used. The results of these two tests were compared. Of 1,159 infant cord blood samples studied, 26 (or 2.2%) had abnormally low levels of PK activity using the screening test, as did 24 of the samples tested by the enzyme assay. The results indicate that the frequency of a defective PK gene in the population of Guangzhou is significantly lower (p < .05) than the previously reported defective gene frequency of 3.4% in Hong Kong. They also demonstrate the critical importance of standardization of the screening test, if most accurate estimates of gene frequency are to be derived by using this test.
Molecular characterization of a patient with an interstitial 1q deletion [del(1)(q24.1q25.3)] and distinctive skeletal abnormalities
Authors: Descartes Maria , Hain Julie Zenger , Conklin Michael , Franklin Judy , Mikhail Fady M. , Lachman Ralph S. , Nolet Serge , Messiaen Ludwine M.
Published: October 2008

Here we report on a patient with an interstitial deletion on the long(q) arm of chromosome 1 who presents with a unique constellation of anomalies including brachydactyly type E, Müllerian agenesis, growth hormone deficiency, as well as other abnormalities. We present the clinical details of this patient's presentation, the skeletal findings, and provide characterization of the deletion at the molecular level. We postulate that these skeletal anomalies are distinctive to 1q deletions involving the 1q24q25 region. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria, periventricular nodular heterotopia, and left ventricular noncompaction in a girl with 10.5–11.1 Mb terminal deletion of 1p36
Authors: Saito Shoji , Kawamura Rie , Kosho Tomoki , Shimizu Takashi , Aoyama Koki , Koike Kenichi , Wada Takahito , Matsumoto Naomichi , Kato Mitsuhiro , Wakui Keiko , Fukushima Yoshimitsu
Published: October 2008

Monosomy 1p36 is a common subtelomeric microdeletion syndrome, characterized by craniofacial dysmorphisms, developmental delay, mental retardation, hypotonia, epilepsy, cardiovascular complications, and hearing impairment; deleted regions have been mapped within 10.0 Mb from the telomere in most documented cases. We report on a girl with a 10.5–11.1 Mb terminal deletion of 1p36 shown by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). She had three distinct structural abnormalities: bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria, periventricular nodular heterotopia, and left ventricular noncompaction. She died in early infancy with intractable epilepsy, progressive congestive heart failure and pulmonary hypertension. To date, this is the first case with monosomy 1p36, complicated by this combination of manifestations; she is also the first who had possibly a simple terminal deletion of 1p36 and died in early infancy. An atypically large deletion in this patient might be the basis for the development of these features and the severe clinical course. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Properties of poly(ethylene 1‐octene)‐g‐maleic anhydride copolymers prepared via solvothermal process
Authors: Qi Rongrong , Liu Qiaochu , Wang Yanling , Huang Mark
Published: October 2008

The poly(ethylene 1‐octene)‐g‐maleic anhydride copolymers (POE‐g‐MAH) with high grafting degree (GD) (>9%) have previously been obtained by a solvothermal method in our laboratory. It is found that the low GD (less than 2.5%) did not change the bulk properties of polyolefine elastomers (POE). Thereforefore, it is worth further understanding whether a high GD POE‐g‐MAH copolymer differs from the pure POE in its comprehensive properties and performance. In this article, POE‐g‐MAH with different GDs were synthesized and characterized by thermogravimetric analyze (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide angle X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (WAXD), and dynamic rheological testing. The results show that the thermal decomposition temperature, melting points, the crystallization temperatures, and the crystallinities were decreased by the increasing GD. By WAXD, three peaks respectively, attributed to the amorphous phase, the (110) and (200) interferences of the orthorhombic unit cell were detected, and they also decreased by the increasing GD. And the POE‐g‐MAH copolymers had higher storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), and complex viscosity (η*) than those of pure POE. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Multifaceted Palladium Catalysts Towards the Tandem Diboration–Arylation Reactions of Alkenes
Authors: Penno Dirk , Lillo Vanesa , Koshevoy Igor O. , Sanaú Mercedes , Ubeda M. Angeles , Lahuerta Pascual , Fernández Elena
Published: October 2008

Novel Pd26+ compounds have been synthesized in high yield. These compounds and their Pd24+ counterparts as synthetic precursors mediate the diboration of vinylarenes and aliphatic 1‐alkenes, and under mild and basic reaction conditions they produce a variety of 1,2‐diboronate esters with excellent conversions and chemoselectivities. The presence of bis(catecholato)diboron (B2cat2) favours the reduction of PdIII to PdII, while the catalytic precursor of PdII is transformed into Pd0‐nanoparticles. An “in situ” catalytic tandem reaction has been designed to transform the diboronate intermediates into the monoarylated product, which after oxidative workup, provides the carbohydroxylated adduct. Eventually, the same catalyst performs both sequences with total conversion from the alkene.
Racial disparities and treatment trends in a large cohort of elderly African Americans and Caucasians with colorectal cancer, 1991 to 2002
Authors: White Arica , Liu Chih‐Chin , Xia Rui , Burau Keith , Cormier Janice , Chan Wenyaw , Du Xianglin L.
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND.

Racial differences have been demonstrated in patients who receive treatment for colorectal cancer. However, little is known about whether these disparities have changed over time. The objective of this study was to determine whether racial disparities in receiving standard therapy have declined between 1991 and 2002.

METHODS.

The study population consisted of 59,803 Caucasians and African Americans aged ≥65 years who were diagnosed with colorectal cancer (American Joint Committee on Cancer stages I, II, and III) between 1991 and 2002 and were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program/Medicare‐linked database. Standard therapy for colorectal cancer was defined based on the Physician Data Query guidelines from the National Cancer Institute. The crude and age‐ and sex‐adjusted percentages and the odds ratios (ORs) of receiving standard therapy were reported.

RESULTS.

From 1991 to 2002, the percentage of patients who did not receive standard therapy for colorectal cancer decreased for both Caucasians (from 24.5% to 22.4%) and African Americans (from 30.4% to 26.4%). Overall, African Americans were 16% less likely to receive standard therapy for colorectal cancer (OR, 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78‐0.90) than Caucasians, but the difference was not significant after the analysis was adjusted for other factors (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.88‐1.05). The gap for not receiving standard therapy was relatively stable, peaked in 1997 (7.2%), and decreased from 1999 to 2002 (from 7.1% to 4%).

CONCLUSIONS.

The percentage of patients receiving standard therapy for colorectal cancer increased over time, but disparities remained and decreased in recent years. Future studies should include other ethnic groups and should incorporate provider and system factors that may contribute to treatment disparities. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Synthesis of the 3′‐C‐Hydroxymethyl‐Branched Locked Nucleic Acid Thymidine Monomer
Authors: Kumar Surender , Sharma Pawan K. , Stein Paul C. , Nielsen Poul
Published: October 2008

A 3′‐C‐hydroxymethyl‐branched Locked Nucleic Acid (LNA) monomer 3 was synthesized from diacetone‐α‐D‐glucose taking advantage of a stereoselective Grignard reaction for the introduction of a vinyl group, an aldol/Cannizzarro sequence for introducing the 4′‐substituent, oxidative cleavage of the vinyl group using a RuO4‐based protocol, Vorbrüggen‐type nucleobase coupling and finally the ring closure by ether formation giving the bicyclic skeleton. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Melanoma of the upper aerodigestive tract: A review of 21 cases
Authors: Panje William R. , Moran William J.
Published: October 2008

In this report 21 cases of primary malignant melanoma arising from the mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract are reviewed. The patients ranged in age from 30 to 86; mean age was 67 years. There were 10 men and 11 women. All but one patient were white. Sites of involvement were: nose and paranasal sinuses, oral cavity and labial mucosa, parotid duct, and larynx. Surgery was the primary method of treatment. The 2‐year survival rate was 44% (7/16) and the 5‐year survival rate was 13% (2/15). Regional metastases were seen in 19% (4/21) while distant metastases was seen in 55% (11/21). The local recurrence rate was 69% (11/16). Distant metastases were usually associated with uncontrolled disease at the primary site. This fact as well as the low incidence of regional metastases lead us to conclude that better local control rather than regional lymphatic control is necessary if decreased distant metastases and increased survival are to be achieved.
Correlation of dna flow cytometric results and other prognostic factors in primary breast cancer
Authors: Feichter G. E. , Mueller A. , Kaufmann M. , Haag D. , Born I. A. , Abel U. , Klinga K. , Kubli F. , Goerttler K.
Published: October 2008

The percentage of cells in S‐phase and DNA‐ploidy have been measured in 300 primary mammary carcinomas by means of DNA‐flow cytometry (FCM). The data were compared with the age and menopausal status of the patients as well as with the size, regional lymph‐node involvement, histologic type, grade and concentration of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors of the tumors. A DNA‐diploid distribution of the G0/1 ‐peak was found in 37.6% of the cases. The mean percentage of S‐phase fractions was 4.83. DNA‐aneuploid tumors had significantly higher amounts of S‐phase fractions (6.12%) than DNA‐diploid tumors (2.66%). There was also a significant correlation between the DNA measurement data (DNA‐ploidy and S‐phase fractions) and histologic grade, as well as the content of ER and PR, but not between DNA‐ploidy, S‐phase fractions, tumor size (T) and evidence of axillary lymph‐node metastases. DNA‐FCM gives a biological characterization of the tumor in addition to the histopathologic examination. The method can be used as a routine procedure because of the reliability and reproducibility of the results as well as the short time needed for the measurements.
Activation of telomerase and cyclooxygenase‐2 in PDGF and FGF inhibition of C2‐ceramide‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Chien Chih‐Chiang , Shen Shing‐Chuan , Yang Liang‐Yo , Wu Chin‐Yen , Liau Jiun‐Shiang , Chen Yen‐Chou
Published: October 2008

In the present study, the roles of telomerase and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF's) and fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2's) effects against C2‐ceramide‐induced cell death were investigated. C2‐ceramide reduced the viability of NIH3T3 cells in a condition without calf serum (CS) in accordance with decreasing telomerase activity according to the TRAP assay. The addition of CS significantly protected cells from C2‐ceramide‐induced apoptosis through increased telomerase activity, and the phosphorylations of PDGF and the FGF‐2‐like receptor in NIH3T3 cells were detected. Adding PDGF and FGF‐2 decreased the cytotoxic effect elicited by C2‐ceramide through stimulating telomerase activity, which was blocked by adding a telomerase inhibitor (TI). Activations of ERKs and JNKs were detected in PDGF‐ and FGF‐2‐treated NIH3T3 cells, and the telomerase activities induced by PDGF and FGF were respectively inhibited by the addition of the ERK inhibitor, PD98059, and the JNK inhibitor, SP600125. Accordingly, induction of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein expression and PGE2 production was detected in PDGF‐ and FGF‐2‐treated NIH3T3 cells, and the telomerase activities stimulated by PDGF and FGF were reduced by adding a specific COX‐2 inhibitor, NS398, through a decrease in PGE2 production. Incubation of cells with PGE2 or the EP1 agonist, 17‐PT, but not the EP2 agonist, sulprostone, the EP3 agonist, butaprost, or the EP4 agonist, PGE1 alcohol, significantly enhanced the telomerase activity of NIH3T3 cells. PGE2 protection of NIH3T3 cells against C2‐ceramide‐induced cell death was identified by the MTT and LDH‐release assays, and it was inhibited by adding the EP1 antagonist, SC‐19220. Ceramide metabolites including ceramide‐1‐phosphate (C1P) and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), and a standard control of exogenous ceramide C2‐dihydroceramide show no effect on the telomerase activity and viability of NIH3T3 cells. The involvement of COX‐2/PGE2‐mediated telomerase activation by PDGF and FGF‐2 against C2‐ceramide‐induced cell death is first demonstrated herein. J. Cell. Physiol. 218: 405–415, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ω‐Di‐(trideuteromethyl)‐tocotrienols as probes for membrane orientation and dynamics of tocotrienols
Authors: West Ryan , Wang Yongsheng , Atkinson Jeffrey
Published: October 2008

The study of the dynamic and structural role of lipids in membranes is commonly accomplished using 2H NMR and neutron diffraction. This necessarily requires the availability of specifically deuterated lipids. Our interest in the behaviour of tocopherols and tocotrienols in phospholipid membranes has shown that the tocotrienols, unsaturated forms of vitamin E, have very different effects on membrane properties as judged by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). We report here the preparation of deuterated forms of α‐, β‐, and γ‐tocotrienols where the terminal methyl groups on the isoprenoid side chains have been replaced with trideuteromethyl groups, thus incorporating six deuterium atoms per molecule. Starting from the naturally occurring tocotrienols, the terminal alkene can be selectively hydrobrominated with NBS, transformed to a diol and oxidatively cleaved to give a chain truncated aldehyde. The full chain length is then restored by reaction with the ylide formed by deprotonation of triphenyl‐(1,2,2,2‐tetradeutero‐1‐trideuteromethyl‐ethyl)‐phosphonium bromide. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deterioration of diabetic retinopathy during growth hormone therapy in a pan‐hypopituitary diabetic patient
Authors: Bhake R , Evans A
Published: October 2008

Diabetic retinopathy remains the leading cause of blindness in the developed world, resulting in significant morbidity for the diabetes population subset and, as yet, the specific pathogenesis remains elusive. Endogenous growth hormone (GH) is believed to play a role in the development of retinal new vessels that characterise proliferative retinopathy. Both endogenous GH and its active protein insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) have been found to be at high levels in diabetes, especially in patients with suboptimal glycaemic control. Recombinant human GH (rhGH) was licensed for adult therapeutic use in 1996. Its role in retinopathy is inconclusive. There are reports of rhGH administration being associated with proliferative retinopathy in non‐diabetic patients. In a case series of 85 non‐diabetic children on rhGH therapy, they were screened prospectively for the development of proliferative retinopathy and were found to have none. On the contrary, however, proliferative retinopathy has been reported to have developed in a diabetic woman who developed GH deficiency and was not on replacement therapy.

Our case is that of proliferative retinopathy during treatment with rhGH, in a known diabetic patient. There are no previous case reports of worsening of stable background diabetic retinopathy during rhGH treatment. In the current era of diabetes, new agents are overwhelming the therapeutic menu but are limited in their use due to unforeseen outcomes. This is another therapeutic option which calls for caution in its prudent use until further studies demonstrating the role of GH and/or IGF‐1 in developing proliferative retinopathy are available. We would therefore advise baseline and ongoing periodic screening for the development of new retinopathy in diabetic patients who have coexistent GH deficiency and in whom therapy with recombinant GH is contemplated. Copyright ©2008 John Wiley & Sons.
The Dislocation Image Force in Cubic Polycrystals
Authors: Head A. K.
Published: October 2008

The image force on a screw dislocation in an anisotropic cubic polycrystal is examined as a function of elastic anisotropy and Burgers vector. For iron it is shown that the screw glide dislocation is always repelled from a grain boundary but for copper there can be either an attraction or repulsion depending on the misorientation across the grain boundary.
The Lattice Thermal Conductivities of Annealed Copper‐Aluminium Alloys
Authors: Charsley P. , Salter J. A. M.
Published: October 2008

Measurements have been made of the lattice thermal conductivities of six polycrystalline and two single crystal specimens of copper‐aluminium alloys in the temperature range 1.5 to 4.2 °K. The aluminium content varied from 2 to 12 at.% giving rise to residual electrical resistivities between 2 and 8 μΩ cm. The lattice thermal conductivities varied as T2 with small contributions, linear in temperature, which may arise from grain boundaries. The results are compared with the model for ultrasonic attenuation by free electrons due to Pippard.
Ultraschallabsorption in Aluminium Von
Authors: Holzinger O.
Published: October 2008

Es wurden im MHz‐Gebiet (5 bis 200 MHz) mit Druck‐ und Scherwellen Dämpfungsmessungen in Aluminium durchgeführt. Der Temperaturbereich reichte dabei von 77 bis 300 °K. Zur Erklärung der gemessenen Dämpfung wurden die Theorien von Granato‐Lücke über die Versetzungsdämpfung, von Mason u. a. über die Viskosität des Elektronengases und von Lücke über die Verluste durch Wärmeleitfähigkeit herangezogen. Die gemessene Temperaturabhängigkeit der Versetzungsdämpfung stimmte nicht mit den Ergebnissen bei Kupfer überein. Es wurde festgestellt, daß die Versetzungsdämpfung (und damit die Dämpfungskonstante B) proportional zur elektrischen Leitfähigkeit verläuft.
Die Erholung von Nickel oberhalb Raumtemperatur Von
Authors: Mehrer H. , Kronmüller H. , Seeger A.
Published: October 2008

Die Erholung der Koerzitivfeldstärke und der Anfangssuszeptibilität von Nickeleinkristallen erfolgt oberhalb Raumtemperatur in drei Stufen. Diese können durch Wanderung von Zwischengitteratomen, Leerstellen beziehungsweise durch die Selbstdiffusion gedeutet werden. Nach Neutronenbestrahlung bei etwa 80 °C wurde eine Erholungsstufe zwischen 100 °C und 300 °C gefunden. Aktivierungsenergien von (0,5 ± 0,06) eV im ersten Teil der Stufe werden gedeutet als Differenz von Wanderungs‐ und Bindungsenergie der Doppelleerstelle. Durch Vergleich mit einer direkten Messung der Wanderungsenergie der Doppelleerstelle ergibt sich die Bindungsenergie zu 0,3 eV. Der letzte Teil der Stufe wird der Wanderung der Einfachleerstellen zugeschrieben, deren Wanderungsenergie sich zu (1,46 ± 0,07) eV ergibt. Aus Erholungsmessungen des elektrischen Widerstandes nach Elektronenbestrahlung wurde im Einklang mit früheren Messungen die Wanderungsenergie des Zwischengitteratoms zu (1,03 ± 0,04) eV bestimmt.
Relaxationserscheinungen in hochreinem, polykristallinem Aluminium nach plastischer Verformung bei tiefen Temperaturen Von
Authors: Völkl J. , Weinländer W. , Carsten J.
Published: October 2008

In einer Torsionspendelapparatur wurde die innere Reibung von hochreinem, polykristallinem Aluminium (99,999% Reinheit) nach plastischer Verformung bei ca. 20 °K bzw. ca. 80 °K gemessen. Es zeigen sich vier Maxima der inneren Reibung, die bei einer Pendelfrequenz von ca. 3 Hz bei 70 °K, 100 °K, 115 °K und 155 °K liegen. Die Maxima bei 70 °K und 100 °K, bei denen es sich um das bereits bekannte Bordonimaximum bzw. dessen Nebenmaximum handelt, wurden genauer untersucht. Nach einem starken Anstieg des Bordonimaximums beim Anlassen im Temperaturgebiet von 115 °K bis 230 °K tritt ein Abfall beim Tempern über 230 °K auf. Der Anstieg wird dem Ausheilen der an die Versetzungen angelagerten Zwischengitteratome zugeschrieben, wodurch die Versetzungsbewegung ungehinderter erfolgen kann, der Abfall dem Ausheilen von Versetzungen. Aus Messungen bei zwei verschiedenen Frequenzen ergab sich für das Bordonimaximum eine Aktivierungsenergie von 0,19 ± 0,03 eV. Kleine Verschiebungen der Maximumstemperatur nach verschiedener Temperaturbehandlung und nach verschieden starker plastischer Verformung lassen sich deuten, wenn die Diffusion der Versetzungskinken mit in Betracht gezogen wird.
Longitudinal Magnetic Excitons in Finite Linear Ferromagnetic Chain of Ions with Singlet Ground State
Authors: Kowalewski L. , Popielewi A.
Published: October 2008

The spectrum of magnetic excitons propagating in a finite linear chain of ions with a singlet ground state is studied. The calculations a reperformed for a two‐level (singlet‐singlet) system. It is assumed that the energy interval between the singlets for an ion localized at the end of the chain is different from that for ions within the chain. A formula for the energy of excitons propagating in such a chain is derived, and the conditions for the occurrence of modes localized at the ends of the chain are determined.
Accurate and Validated Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship Model of Caspase‐mediated Apoptosis‐inducing Activity of Phenolic Compounds Using Density Functional Theory Calculation and Genetic Algorithm–Multiple Linear Regression
Authors: Chang Jin , Lei Beilei , Li Jiazhong , Li Shuyan , Shen Yulin , Yao Xiaojun
Published: October 2008

In this work, an accurate and validated Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) model was developed for the caspase‐mediated apoptosis‐inducing effect of 52 substituted phenolic compounds in a murine leukemia cell line (L1210). All molecules were optimized by the Density Functional Theory (DFT) to obtain lowest energy conformations. The whole dataset was divided into representative training and test sets using DUPLEX method. Then, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) method was used to build QSAR models based on the descriptors selected by Genetic Algorithm (GA) using training set samples. The built models were rigorously validated both internally and externally. The obtained model based on DFT optimized geometry is better than that based on semi‐empirical optimized geometry and the published work with the correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.938 for the training set and 0.939 for the test set. The result is discussed in the light of the main features that influence the inducing activity of caspase‐mediated apoptosis.
Notes and insights on essential tension
Authors: Maloney Stephen
Published: October 2008

Notes and Insights is a forum for discussion and debate about current issues in the philosophy and application of the system dynamics approach, and a marketplace for the exchange of information about current research, policy issues, and teaching experiences. Manuscripts treating material particularly suited to presentation in short form (less than 2,000 words) should be sent to Erich Zahn, Betriebswirtschaft‐liches Institut, Abt. IV, Universität Stuttgart, Keplerstr. 17, D‐7000 Stuttgart 1, Germany.
Knockout of STriatal enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase in mice results in increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation
Authors: Venkitaramani Deepa V. , Paul Surojit , Zhang Yongfang , Kurup Pradeep , Ding Li , Tressler Lyal , Allen Melanie , Sacca Rosalba , Picciotto Marina R. , Lombroso Paul J.
Published: October 2008

STriatal Enriched protein tyrosine Phosphatase (STEP) is a brain‐specific protein that is thought to play a role in synaptic plasticity. This hypothesis is based on previous findings demonstrating a role for STEP in the regulation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2). We have now generated a STEP knockout mouse and investigated the effect of knocking out STEP in the regulation of ERK1/2 activity. Here, we show that the STEP knockout mice are viable and fertile and have no detectable cytoarchitectural abnormalities in the brain. The homozygous knockout mice lack the expression of all STEP isoforms, whereas the heterozygous mice have reduced STEP protein levels when compared with the wild‐type mice. The STEP knockout mice show enhanced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in the striatum, CA2 region of the hippocampus, as well as central and lateral nuclei of the amygdala. In addition, the cultured neurons from KO mice showed significantly higher levels of pERK1/2 following synaptic stimulation when compared with wild‐type controls. These data demonstrate more conclusively the role of STEP in the regulation of ERK1/2 activity. Synapse 63:69–81, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prostate Cancer Staging Tables—A Predictive Model for the UK
Authors: Bott Simon R.J. , Emberton Mark , Sydes Matthew R. ,   The surgical and pathological contributors
Published: October 2008

Introduction:

The use of accurate risk stratification is a prerequisite to informed decision-making when considering potentially curative treatments for prostate cancer. Most models are derived from cases managed in the United States. The validity of these methods may be compromised when used on a population other than that used for generating the predicted outcomes. We present predictive tables derived from the observed outcomes of men treated by radical prostatectomy in the United Kingdom.

Methods:

Using logistic regression a pilot study identified the best predictors of pathological stage from eight pre-operative variables. All full BAUS members were asked to submit their consecutive RP patients' age, biopsy Gleason score, pre-operative PSA, number of biopsy cores, number of biopsy cores containing cancer (% positive cores) and pathological stage. Predictive tables were constructed using this data to predict pT2, pT3a or pT3b/4/N1 disease at radical prostatectomy and assessed using internal cross-validation methods.

Results:

1912 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy by 39 consultant urologists in 19 centres were included. The impact of age was equivocal but a robust model was developed to predict outcomes based on Gleason sum score, pre-operative PSA and positive biopsy cores. A series of tables have been constructed to allow for use in practice.

Conclusions:

In this study we have generated a validated prostate cancer predictive table derived entirely from a UK surgical cohort and which is simple to use.
Astrology in the Pseudo-Clementine Recognitions
Authors: KELLEY NICOLE
Published: October 2008

The Pseudo-Clementines contain a lengthy debate about astrology that stands in some literary relationship to Bardaisan's writings. Connections with earlier works are important, but the Recognitions' fourth-century Syrian context – much neglected by earlier scholarship – reveals why it devotes such a large amount of narrative space to a dialogue about astrology, fate and free will. This article argues that such material is more than just a remnant of the past carelessly appropriated by the Pseudo-Clementines. Astrology plays a crucial role in the Recognitions' polemical agenda, which reflects a complex rivalry between several groups in fourth-century Syria.
An approach to bilateral bone-anchored hearing aid surgery in children: contralateral placement of sleeper fixture
Authors: Bernstein J M , Sheehan P Z
Published: October 2008

Objective:

Bone-anchored hearing aid surgery in younger children is a two-stage procedure, with a titanium fixture being allowed to osseointegrate for several months before an abutment is fitted through a skin graft. In the first procedure, it has been usual to place a reserve or sleeper fixture approximately 5 mm from the primary fixture as a backup in case the primary fixture fails to osseointegrate. This ipsilateral sleeper fixture is expensive, is often not used, and is placed in thinner calvarial bone where it is less likely to osseointegrate successfully. The authors have implanted the sleeper fixture on the contralateral side, with the additional objective of reducing the number of procedures for bilateral bone-anchored hearing aid implantation, providing a cost-effective use for the sleeper.

Methods:

The authors implanted the bone-anchored hearing aid sleeper fixture in the contralateral temporal bone instead of on the ipsilateral side in seven successive paediatric cases with bilateral conductive hearing loss requiring two-stage bone-anchored hearing aids, treated at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, UK.

Results:

The seven patients ranged in age from five to 15 years, with a mean age of 10 years; in addition, a 20-year-old with learning disability was also treated. In each case, the contralateral sleeper fixture was not needed as a backup fixture, but was used in four patients (57 per cent) as the basis for a second-side bone-anchored hearing aid.

Conclusions:

In children with bilateral conductive hearing loss, in whom a bilateral bone-anchored hearing aid is being considered and the second side is to be operated upon at a later date, we recommend placing the sleeper fixture on the contralateral side at the time of primary first-side surgery. Our technique provides a sleeper fixture located in an optimal position, where it also offers the option of use for a second-side bone-anchored hearing aid and reduces the number of procedures needed.
I'll be the judge of that: Diversity in social perceptions of (ING)
Authors: CAMPBELL-KIBLER KATHRYN
Published: October 2008

This article examines divergent listener perceptions with an expanded form of the Matched Guise Technique, using 32 matched pairs of short recordings of natural speech. Social evaluations were collected in open-ended interviews (N = 55) and an online experiment (N = 124). Three speakers are described who prompted disagreement about the English variable (ING). One's -ing use is seen by some as more intelligent and by others as annoying, less intelligent, and trying to impress. Another's -in guise is seen as compassionate by some and as condescending by others, while a third, when using -in, is seen by some as annoying and less masculine, while others describe him as a masculine “jock.” These findings show that listeners shift their interpretations of a linguistic resource, highlighting the ambiguous role intention plays in social meaning and calling into question long-held assumptions about the need for conscious introspection in sociolinguistic perception.
Standards and the Standard Language
Authors: Strevens Peter
Published: October 2008

Who speaks Standard English? Do all the people on our cover use it, only some of them, or only one of them? Are these even reasonable questions to ask in 1985? What is the standard language and what are language standards anyway, towards the end of the 20th century?
An ABC of World English Brit to Creole
Authors: McArthur Tom
Published: October 2008

The second part of a four part gazetteer of the basic geopolitical vocabulary of the English language, dealing with the facts, fancies, fallacies, ambiguities and subtle implications in such words. For convenience of presentation the material is not in strict aphabetical order.
Email: a challenge to Standard English?
Authors: Lan Li
Published: October 2008

A survey of an ‘organic, evolving and dynamic’ hybrid between writing and speech and language and language
Requiem for English?
Authors: Kapili Lily V.
Published: October 2008

American English, used in the Philippines since the turn of the century, may have reached crisis point in its complex relationship with Pilipino/Tagalog and other local languages.
Words from the front
Authors: Simpson John
Published: October 2008

JOHN SIMPSON, co-editor of the ‘Oxford English Dictionary’, investigates some of the questions raised by readers om ET 14, April 1988.
Creating Anglophiles
Authors: Burgh John
Published: October 2008

English Today talks to Sir John Burgh, Director-General of the British Council, about the history, evolution, policies and plans of an organization that runs a planet-wide programme of English as a second or foreign language.
The past, present and future of English parsing
Authors: Crystal David
Published: October 2008

The teaching of ‘grammar’ is a matter of controversy in educational circles. In recent decades the pendulum has swung away from traditional ‘parsing’ towards ‘language in use’ – accompanied by cheers and fears in roughly equal measure. Is compromise possible between the two extremes, or even something better than simple compromise?
How ‘Canadian’ is Canadian Literature?
Authors: Sutherland Ronald
Published: October 2008

Third in our series on the literatures of English around the world: Canada's response to a dual European heritage, to the closeness of the United States, and to its own inner tensions.
DIVERSITY IN UNITY American & British English
Authors: Ilson Robert
Published: October 2008

What separates the two major varieties of the language, apart from a great deal of water? An American domiciled in Britain looks at both the obvious and the not-quite-so-obvious in what unites and divides them.
Salt on the Tongue
Authors: Beavis Bill
Published: October 2008

A great deal of vivid, everyday English dates from the heyday of the sailing ship. BILL BEAVIS, himself a sailor, gets cracking with some nautical word histories that might take you aback.
What is literature – established canon or popular taste?
Authors: Pickett Douglas
Published: October 2008

In the fifth in our series on the literature(s) of English around the world, a teacher and examiner takes us back to basics with the most fundamental question of them all.
The Problem of purism
Authors: McArthur Tom
Published: October 2008

Prompted by a variety of letters from readers about deterioration and falling language standards, TOM McARTHUR discusses purism and the standard language, past and present.
Taboo or not taboo
Authors: Peckham Shirley E , Crystal David
Published: October 2008

‘Foul language’ seems essential to some and gives great offence to others. SHIRLEY E PECKHAM asks for a campaign to do something about it, especially in the young, and DAVID CRYSTAL adds a commentary that takes a clinical look at this ancient human predilection.
The Eng Lit Diaspora
Authors: Killam G Douglas
Published: October 2008

Seventh in our series on the literatures of English around the world: an outline of the growth of these literatures and of a critical response to them.