bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major grass pollen allergen Lol p 1 binds to diesel exhaust particles: implications for asthma and air pollution
Authors: KNOX R. B. , SUPHIOGLU C. , TAYLOR P. , DESAI R. , WATSON H. C. , PENG J. L. , BURSILL L. A.
Published: April 2006

Background Grass pollen allergens are known to be present in the atmosphere in a range of particle sizes from whole pollen grains (approx. 20 to 55 μim in diameter) to smaller size fractions < 2.5 μ (fine particles, PM2.5). These latter particles are within the respirable range and include allergen‐containing starch granules released from within the grains into the atmosphere when grass pollen ruptures in rainfall and are associated with epidemics of thunderstorm asthma during the grass pollen season. The question arises whether grass pollen allergens can interact with other sources of fine particles, particularly those present during episodes of air pollution.

Objective We propose the hypothesis that free grass pollen allergen molecules, derived from dead or burst grains and dispersed in microdroplets of water in aerosols, can bind to fine particles in polluted air.

Methods We used diesel exhaust carbon particles (DECP) derived from the exhaust of a stationary diesel engine, natural highly purified Lol p 1, immunogold labelling with specific monoclonal antibodies and a high voltage transmission electron ‐microscopic imaging technique

Results DECP are visualized as small carbon spheres, each 30–60 nm in diameter, forming fractal aggregates about 1–2μ in diameter. Here we test our hypothesis and show by in vitro experiments that the major grass pollen allergen, Lol p I. binds to one defined class of fine particles, DECP.

Conclusion DECP are in the respirable size range, can bind to the major grass pollen allergen Lol p I under in vitro conditions and represent a possible mechanism by which allergens can become concentrated in polluted air and thus trigger attacks of asthma.
Immune effector cells induced by complete Freund's adjuvant exert an inhibitory effect on antigen‐specific type 2 T helper responses
Authors: CHUANG Y.‐H. , CHIANG B.‐L. , CHOU C.‐C. , HSIEH K.‐H.
Published: April 2006

Background II has hecn well documented that environmental factors such as antigenpresenting cells and related cytokines could affect the development of T helper cells.

Objective The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of different adjuvants on T cell development.

Methods Ovalbumin (OVA) combined with aluminum hydroxide (Alum) plus pertussis toxin (PT) or complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) were used to sensitize mice; the production of IgG and IgE anli‐OVA antibodies was then followed. In addition, OVA‐specific proliferative responses and cytokine production by spleen cells were also investigated.

Results The data showed that the adjuvants themselves could modify the pattern of immune response: (1) IgG2a > anti‐OVA antibody was higher in mice sensitized with OVA + CFA compared to that of mice sensitized with OVA + Alum + PT; (2) the ratio of IFN‐γ/IL‐4 produced by OVA‐stimutated spleen cells was higher in mice sensitized with OVA + CFA than that of mice sensitized with OVA + Alum + PT; (3) increased percentage of γδ T cells was noted in the peritoneal exudate cells of OVA + CFA immunized mice; and (4) the immune response of mice sensitized wilh OVA + Alum+ PT was inhibited by the adoptively transferred ascitic cells from OVA + CFA immunized mice.

Conclusion In general, the data suggested higher IgG2a and the ratio of IFN‐γ/IL‐4 was noted In mice sensitized with OVA + CFA. Further elucidation of the regulatory mechanism of allergen‐specific T helper cells development and exploration of possible agents for inmiunotherapy might shed light on the management of atopic diseases.
Elevated levels of substance P in tears of patients with allergic conjunctivitis and vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: FUJISHIMA H. , TAKEYAMA M. , TAKEUCHI T. , SAITO I. , TSUBOTA K.
Published: April 2006

Background Recetit studies have suggested that the nervous system may participate in inflammatory processes. Substance P (SP) acts as a chemical mediator as well as a neurotransmitter.

Objective In order to clarify the pathogenesis of ocular allergic diseases, we assessed the concentration of SP in tears.

Methods Using a highly sensitive and specific double‐antibody enzyme immunoassay (EIA), we determined the SP concentration in tears of 10 patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, 10 with atopic dermatitis without keratoconjunctivitis (AD), 13 with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and 65 normal controls. Giemsa's staining for brush cytology samples and histocytological study by immunocytochemical staining of giant papillary conjunctival cells from VKC and normal controls was conducted.

Results The mean SP level was low in the normal controls and AD, whereas patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and VKC showed significant elevation of SP (P<0.01). Brush cytology samples showed conjunctival epithelial cells with lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils that were not seen in normal subjects. Histocytological examination demonstrated SP positive cells in the conjunctiva of patients with VKC, but not in normal controls.

Conclusion This study suggests that the increased level of SP in tears may contribute to the pathogenesis and severity of ocular allergic diseases.
Altered compartimentalization of transforming growth factor‐β in asthmatic airways
Authors: MAGNAN A. , RETORNAZ F. , TSICOPOULOS A. , BRISSE J. , VAN PEE D. , GOSSET P. , CHAMLIAN A. , TONNEL A. B. , VERVLOET D.
Published: April 2006

Background Asthma is characterized by alterations of the bronchial epithelium associated with inflammatory cell infiltrates and sub‐epithelial fibrosis. Transforming Growth Factor‐β (TGF‐β) is an anti‐inflammatory and fibrosing cytokine normally present in bronchial epithelial cells and also potentially produced by inflammatory cells. Thus, TGF‐β could play a role in the asthmatic process, and its expression could be modified in asthmatic airways.

Objective To test this latter hypothesis, we studied the bronchial distribution of TGF‐β in asthmatic patients.

Methods TGF‐β1, 2, 3 distribution was studied by immunohistochemistry in bronchial biopsies from 12 asthmatic patients and 10 non‐asthmatic subjects.

Results Bronchial epithelial cells from asthmatics were negative or faintly positive while a bright staining was detected in these from non‐asthmatics (P < 0.0l). In both groups, when inflammatory cells were present beneath the basement membrane, they were stained by the anti‐TGF‐β antibody.

Conclusion This study shows an altered compartimentalization of TGF‐β in asthma. (a) TGF‐β is scarse in asthmatic bronchial epithelial cells, which could favour the perennization of the bronchial inflammation, and (b) TGF‐β is present in inflammatory cells beneath the basement membrane, where it could be involved in the frequent sub‐epithelial fibrosis.
Constitutive mRNA and immunoreactivity for IL‐2 in human nasal mucosa
Authors: MOSS R. B. , NAGATA H. , GOFF J. , OKUBO K. , HAUSEFELD J. , KALINER MICHAEL A.
Published: April 2006

Background The nasal mucosa is the initial site in the upper airway of host defence against antigenic challenge in the form of airborne allergens, irritants, toxins and infectious agents, and yet little is known about nasal mucosal cytokine expression and function. We hypothesized that IL‐2 might play a role in immunocompetence of the upper airway.

Methods IL‐2 immunoreactivity was measured by ELISA in nasal secretions and by Western blot. Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy were performed on turbinated tissue. mRNA for IL‐2 was evaluated by RTPCR and Southern hybridization.

Results IL‐2 immunoreactivity was demonstrated by Western blot and quantitated by an enzyme immunoassay. Immunohistochemical and electron microscopy analysis of turbinate tissue revealed interstitial staining for IL‐2. By RTPCR, IL‐2 message was evident in 5/5 atopies and 5/5 non‐atopics. IL‐2 message was expressed in all subjects by Southern hybridization to an internal probe after PCR.

Conclusion This study has demonstrated constitutive expression of IL‐2 protein and mRNA in the upper airway of heallhy individuals. The further characterization of cytokines in the upper airway could provide useful insights into immune regulation at the mucosal level.
IgE response to fur animal allergens and domestic animal allergens in fur farmers and fur garment workers
Authors: SAVOLAINEN J. , UITTI J. , HALMEPURO L. , NORDMAN H.
Published: April 2006

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the IgE response to the most commonly farmed fur animals with that to domestic animals.

Methods IgE‐immunoblotting and RAST‐inhibition analyses were performed using RAST‐positive sera from fur workers sensitized to fur allergens and sera from patients sensitized to domestic animal allergens.

Results The urine extracts of mink, blue fox, silver fox, racoon dog and fitchew contained more protein bands than the fur extracts did. Allergens with the same molecular weight were found in all of the fur and urine extracts. The most prominent allergenic bands had molecular weights of 62–67 kDa, 23–25 kDa and 18–19 kDa. With crossreacting sera the reciprocal RAST inhibition with all five animal extracts indicated common IgE‐binding epitopes, probably common allergens (especially the 62–67 kDa bands). Urine and fur contain common allergens, since urine allergens strongly inhibited the IgE‐binding to fur allergens. The IgE binding to allergenic bands of fur animal extracts was also observed in immunoblotting when dog and cat RAST‐positive sera were used, but not for cow RAST‐ positive sera. RAST inhibition of dog‐positive sera with fur animal extracts and fur‐positive sera with dog extract confirmed the crossreactivity of these IgE antibodies. No such inhibition was seen with cow extract.

Conclusion The results of the RAST inhibition and immunoblotting suggest that fur animals have IgE binding epitopes or allergens in common with cat and dog – possibly albumin but not with cow.
Identification of the major water/salt insoluble wheat proteins involved in cereal hypersensitivity
Authors: SANDIFORD C. P. , TATHAM A. S. , FIDO R. , WELCH J. A. , JONES M. G. , TEE R. D. , SHEWRY P. R. , TAYLOR A. J. NEWMAN
Published: April 2006

Background
Several studies have investigated water/salt soluble proteins which comprise 50% of the proteins in wheat. The remaining 50% of wheat proteins, are water/salt insoluble proteins of which there is limited information on their role in cereal hypersensitivity.

Objectives
To investigate the allergenicity of the water/salt insoluble gliadin and glutenin proteins (prolamins).

Methods
RAST, electrophoresis and Western blotting were used to identify water/salt insoluble wheat allergens. Competitive RAST inhibition was conducted to investigate cross‐reactivity between prolamins and water/salt soluble wheat proteins.

Results
Specific IgE to α‐gliadin and to total glutenins were detected in all sera. IgE to β‐, γ‐, fast ω‐, and slow ω‐gliadin were present in lower numbers of sera. Prolamin allergens of 90–11 kDa were identified by immunoblotting. Water/salt soluble proteins crossreacted with a‐gliadin and total glutenins.

Conclusions
Individuals who are hypersensitive to water/salt soluble wheat proteins produce specific IgE to water/salt insoluble wheat proteins. Western blotting has shown that gliadins, glutenins and proteins with similar molecular weights as the endogenous water/salt soluble wheat enzyme inhibitors are important allergens. Alpha and fast ω‐ are the most allergenic gliadins. The water/salt insoluble proteins share cross‐reacting epitopes with water/salt soluble proteins. These data show that the numbers of proteins involved in the development of cereal hypersensitivity is greater than previously believed and that the development of specific IgE to α‐gliadin may in part depend on the presence of cross‐reacting antibodies to water/salt soluble flour allergens.
Human T‐cell responses to Trichophyton tonsurans: inhibition using the serum free medium Aim V
Authors: SLUNT J. B. , TAKETOMI E. A. , PLATTS‐MILLS T. A. E.
Published: April 2006

Background
Proteins of the fungus Trichophyton tonsurans have been shown to give strong T cell proliferative responses in vitro using lymphocytes from individuals with immediate or delayed skin tests. Furthermore, Trichophyton‐specific T‐cell lines produce distinct patterns of cytokine production depending upon the skin‐test reactivity of the host. However, skin‐test negative individuals generally give limited responses. A recent study has demonstrated dust mite specific proliferation with lymphocytes from atopic and non‐atopic subjects using the serum free medium Aim V.

Objective
Compare the T‐cell reactivity to Triehophyton and dust mite antigens in Aim V and media containing 10% pooled AB serum.

Methods
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were separated from subjects with different skin‐test reactivities and cultured either in media with serum or serum free media.

Results
Proliferation to two Trichophyton extracts was decreased in serum free media among subjects with either immediate or delayed hypersensitivity. Trichophyton skin‐test negative subjects gave poor proliferative responses in both culture conditions. A similar decrease in proliferation in serum free media was observed in cultures with PHA and tetanus toxoid. In contrast, the majority of individuals showed increased proliferation to dust mite antigens when cultured in serum free media. Cultures in serum free medium produced less IFNγ, IL‐4, or IL‐5 compared with cultures in AB medium.

Conclusions
In vitro T‐cell responses to the dermatophyte fungus T. tonsurans are inhibited by the serum free medium Aim V. This inhibition is seen equally with cells from individuals with delayed and immediate hypersensitivity. Furthermore, the results do not support the view that AB serum is masking T‐cell responses in skin‐test negative individuals.
B‐cell epitopes recognized by IgE from patients sensitive to Amb a 5
Authors: KIM K.‐E. , ROSENBERG A. , LEMKE T. , CALDERON J. , RICH S. , BLUMENTHAL M. N.
Published: April 2006

Background
The response to allergens characterized hy IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity is selective. The search for the inherited contribution to atopy has among other things, focused on the linkage of sensitivity to the presence of specific alleles in the DR and DQ locus. More than 90% of the responders to Amb a 5, an allergen from ambrosia artemisifolia, are DR‐2 positive. This relationship is logically linked to the T‐cell epitope presentation by the HLA complex.

Objectives
This study aims to investigate a possible relationship between T‐cell epitopes. B‐cell epitopes and the alleles of the DR and DQ loci in Amb a 5 sensitive DR‐2+ and DR‐2 – individuals.

Methods
Inhibition of solid state Elisa assays by IgE‐enriched and IgG‐depleted, heated sera. The inhibition was carried out in checkerboard pattern, bidirectionally; A inhibits B and B inhibits A.

Results
The B‐cell epitopes defined hy the inhibition pattern were all found to be conformational. Three different epitope patterns (A, B, C) were recognized. The IgE and IgG complexes were found in only one responder. The DR and DQ locus alleles were all sequenced. Although all the individuals studied responding to Amb a 5 show presence of alleles such as 1501, associated with DR‐2, our data indicates no correlation between the B‐cell epitopes recognized and the DR and DQ locus alleles. A well known, general T‐cell motif was recognized in the known sequence of Amb a 5.

Conclusions
Our investigation suggests that the choice of B‐cell recognition is regulated independently of a putative link between T‐cell epitope recognition and the D locus.
Clinical characteristics of peanut allergy
Authors: HOURIHANE J. O'B , KILBURN S. A. , DEAN P. , WARNER J. O.
Published: April 2006

Background Current clinical advice regarding peanut allergy is based on small series of patients.

Objective To determine, in a large group of peanut allergic subjects, the patterns of clinical severity, symptom progression and availability and use of rescue medications.

Methods Questionnaire study of 622 self‐reported allergic subjects

Results A total of 406 patients (66%) reported symptoms on contact with peanut. Only 121 (19%) had been knowingly exposed to peanut before the first documented reaction, implying a high frequency of occult sensitization. Severe symptoms were more common in adults. Abdominal symptoms were significantly associated with collapse. Fifty per cent reported reactions in the previous year. Only 82 (13%) had been admitted to hospital because of a reaction. Adrenaline was carried in some form by 65% though only 78 subjects (12.5%) had ever received injected adrenaline. Only 18/43 subjects (41%) who collapsed were given adrenaline. Skin‐prick test weal size correlated weakly with severity but there were large overlaps between the groups. Peanut‐specific IgE peaked in the teenage group, but did not correlate with severity.

Conclusions Peanut allergy is characterized by more severe symptoms than other food allergies and by high rates of symptoms on minimal contact. Skin‐prick testing and peanut‐specific IgE levels do not predict clinical severity. Avoidance of peanut is difficult. Many people suffering severe relations are inadequately treated. Sufferers need education and training in the use of rescue medication.
The most common phenotypes of sensitization to inhalant allergens in childhood
Authors: VAN'S GRAVESANDE K. STORM , MOSELER M. , KUEHR J.
Published: April 2006

Background Atopic individuals are frequently sensitized to a limited number of certain allergens, although most of them are exposed to multiple inhalant allergens in daily life. Objective We investigated the hypothesis that observed common patterns of sensitization might occur with similar frequency within two independent study populations of school‐children.

Methods The results were derived from skin‐prick tests conducted on two large samples of children (study 1:n= 583; study 2: n= 1099) examined with the same panel of six inhalant allergens.

Results In order to ensure that the comparison was uniform, the younger subpopulation of study 1 (n= 147) was compared with the sample of study 2 (n= 374). The highest frequency for monosensitization was found for sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (study 1: 18.4%, study 2: 20.3%), followed by monosensitization to grass pollens (study 1: 12.2%; study 2: 8.8%). Using multiple logistic regression for each specific sensitization, a significantly increased relative risk of sensitization to hazel pollens (study 1 OR 5.9; study 2 OR: 24.3) appeared to be associated with sensitization to birch pollens. The same applied to dog dander (study 1 OR: 7.3; study 2 OR: 2.6), which showed an association with sensitization to cat dander.

Conclusion In summary, our data suggest that certain clusters of monosensitization and polysensitization to common inhalant allergens exist among a given population. This may well be a reflection of diversity in disposition to specific sensitization and/or antigen crossreactivity. From a practical point of view the data also might help in counselling parents of allergic children.
T‐cell sensitization to epitopes from the house dust mites Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Euroglyphus maynei
Authors: HALES B. J. , THOMAS W. R.
Published: April 2006

Background
Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Euroglyphus maynei frequently occur in house dust but little is known about primary sensitization to the less abundant E. maynei.

Objective
To determine the occurrence of primary sensitization to E. maynei by T‐cell responses and the crossreactivity to D. pteronyssinus.

Methods
The proliferative response ot peripheral blood cells to overlapping peptides from Derp I and Eur m 1 were measured as well as to peptides from Der f 1, an allergen not found in the study environment.

Results
The most frequent and strongest responses were to Der p 1 peptides especially in the region 105–133. However, 3/17 responders to mite peptides were stimulated predominantly by Eur m 1 peptides and a further two had their highest response to an Eur m 1 peptide. There was very little crossreactivity between Der p 1 and Eur m 1 peptides and very little response to peptides from Der f 1.

Conclusion
E. maynei group 1 allergens are a significant source of primary T‐cell sensitization and have little T‐cell crossreactivity with D. pteronyssinus or D. farinae.
Inhibition of substance P‐induced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells by ultraviolet light B irradiation: decreased intracellular calcium as a partial mechanism
Authors: AMANO H. , KUROSAWA M. , MIYACHI Y.
Published: April 2006

Background
Ultraviolet light irradiation has been shown to suppress immunological reactions of irradiated individuals, however, less attention has been paid to the effects on neurogenic inflammation.

Objective
We have investigated the effect of ultraviolet light B (UVB) irradiation on substance P (SP)‐induced histamine release from rat mast cells.

Methods
Rat peritoneal mast cells were treated with UVB irradiation and challenged by SP. Histamine release from the cells and intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in the cells were measured.

Results
UVB irradiation at doses used in the present study did not induce histamine release from mast cells. UVB irradiation at doses from 25 to 200mJ/cm2 inhibited 10–5mol/L SP‐induced histamine release in a dose‐dependent manner. On the other hand, SP‐induced increase of [Ca2+]i was inhibited by UVB irradiation only at doses of 100 and 200 mJ/cm2.

Conclusion
These data suggest that UVB irradiation inhibits histamine release from SP‐activated rat peritoneal mast cells partially through the suppression of an increase in [Ca2+]i.
Bronchoalveolar lavage findings suggest two different forms of childhood asthma
Authors: STEVENSON E. C. , TURNER G. , HEANEY L. G. , SCHOCK B. C. , TAYLOR R. , GALLAGHER T. , ENNIS M. , SHIELDS M. D.
Published: April 2006

Background
It seems plausible that children with atopy and persistent asthma symptoms will, like their adult counterparts, have chronic airways inflammation. However, many young children with no other atopic features have episodic wheezing that is triggered solely by viral respiratory infections. Little is known as to whether airways inflammation occurs in these two asthma patterns during relatively asymptomatic periods.

Methods
Using a non‐bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) procedure on children presenting for an elective surgical procedure, this study has investigated the cellular constituents of BAL fluid in children with a history of atopic asthma (AA) non‐asthmatic atopic children (NAA) or viral associated wheeze (VAW).

Results
A total of 95 children was studied: 52 with atopic asthma (8.0 years, range 1.1–15.3, 36 male), 23 with non‐asthmatic atopy (median age 8.3 years, range 1.7–13.6, 11 male) and 20 with VAW (3.1 years, range 1.0–8.2, 13 male). No complications were observed during the lavage procedure and no adverse events were noted post‐operatively. Total lavage fluid recovered was similar in all groups and the total cell numbers were higher in the VAW group. Eosinophil (P≤ 0.005) and mast cell (P≤ 0.05) numbers were significantly elevated in the group with atopic asthma.

Conclusions
During relatively asymptomatic periods there is on‐going airways inflammation, as demonstrated by eosinophil and mast cell recruitment, in children with asthma and atopy but not in children with viral associated wheeze or atopy alone. This strongly suggests that there are different underlying pathophysiological mechanisms in these two groups of children who wheeze.
The role of profilin and lipid transfer protein in strawberry allergy in the Mediterranean area
Authors: Zuidmeer L. , Salentijn E. , Rivas M. F. , Mancebo E. G. , Asero R. , Matos C. I. , Pelgrom K. T. B. , Gilissen L.J.W.J. , Van Ree R.
Published: April 2006

Background
In contrast to other Rosaceae fruit, only few cases of patients with adverse reactions to strawberry are listed in literature.

Objective
To identify allergenic proteins in strawberry and to express and characterize recombinant strawberry lipid transfer protein (LTP; rFra a 3).

Methods
Established apple‐allergic patients were recruited on the basis of a reported allergic reaction to strawberry (n=28, confirmed by double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenge in four patients) or on the basis of IgE reactivity to LTP (n=34). Sensitization to purified natural and recombinant allergens was assessed by RAST, immunoblot (inhibition) and basophil histamine release (BHR). A strawberry cDNA library was screened for genes homologous to known fruit allergens. Fra a 3 was cloned and expressed in the yeast Pichia pastoris and compared with peach and apple LTP by RAST, immunoblot‐inhibition and BHR tests.

Results
Genes homologous to Bet v 1, Bet v 6, profilin and LTP were identified in a strawberry cDNA library. In BHR the rFra a 3 induced histamine release at a 100‐fold higher concentration than peach LTP. RAST inhibition showed high cross‐reactivity to peach and apple LTP, although IgE reactivity was lower by a factor 5. On strawberry immunoblot, patients' IgE showed reactivity to a Bet v 1 homologue, profilin, LTP and high‐molecular weight bands.

Conclusion
In addition to a Bet v 1 homologue, strawberry also contains IgE‐binding profilin and LTP. The rFra a 3 has less allergenic potency than peach and apple LTP, and therefore is an interesting tool for future immunotherapy. Fra a 3 does not seem to be clinically relevant.
Letterer-Siwe disease in an elderly patient: histological and ultrastructural findings
Authors: EADY R.A.J.
Published: April 2006

A 91-year-old woman presented with an itchy, erosive and scaly eruption of about 2 years duration. Clinical, histological and ultrastructural examination of the skin lesions showed typical changes due to Letterer-Siwe disease.

Large mononuclear cells with deeply idented or convoluted nuclei and with Langerhans' cell granules in the cytoplasm, were found to invade the superficial dermis, epidermis and dermo-epidermal junction.
Active chronic hepatitis and pyoderma gangrenosum: report of a case
Authors: BURNS D.A. , SARKANY I.
Published: April 2006

An association of pyoderma gangrenosum and active chronic hepatitis is reported. In view of the well known occurrence of pyoderma gangrenosum in ulcerative colitis and in other diseases based on a disturbance of the immune system, the absence of the expected combination of pyoderma gangrenosum and active chronic hepatitis from previously reported series was surprising. This further report of such an association is therefore both expected and significant.
THE DESIGN OF ELECTROMAGNETIC GEOPHONES*
Authors: DENNISON A. T.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

This paper summarizes and extends the published information on the theoretical design of electromagnetic geophones. Both moving‐coil and moving‐armature instruments are considered, their behaviour compared and various design criteria established.
SUR LE CALCUL DE L'INFLUENCE GRAVIMETRIQUE DES STRUCTURES DEFINIES PAR LES ISOBATHES*
Authors: BARANOV V.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

The triple integral for the attraction of a mass on a point is transformed in a double sum. This double sum serves to construct a graph for the rapid determination of the gravimetric influence of structures given by depth contours. The influence of topography can also be computed with this graph.
A RESISTIVITY INVESTIGATION INTO A WASHOUT FEATURE IN COAL MEASURE STRATA*
Authors: HABBERJAM G. M. , WHETTON JOHN T.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

The paper consists of an account of a resistivity investigation into an old river valley in Coal Measure strata. This valley denuded several of the upper coal seams leaving behind unconsolidated material and it was the purpose of the work to be described to investigate how far the extent and nature of this material could be determined by resistivity methods conducted at the surface.

As such the survey fits into a wider programme of research instigated by the National Coal Board.

The feature, which is quite well known geologically, was surveyed by conventional methods and the results obtained are discussed in relation to the above project.

Thus, the investigations succeeded in tracing the approximate centre line of the feature and in yielding some information on the nature and order of thickness of the deposits. Limitations of the method and its future application are also discussed.
POSSIBILITIES AND LIMITATIONS IN APPLYING GEOELECTRICAL METHODS TO HYDROGEOLOGICAL PROBLEMS IN THE COASTAL AREAS OF NORTH WEST GERMANY*
Authors: FLATHE H.
Published: April 2006

On the basis of results of extensive geoelectrical investigations in East Frisia as well as of theoretically calculated data, it is shown to what extent geoelectrics can furnish a contribution to success during the preliminary work for the establishment of water works, or for the enlargement of existing water works, in coastal areas. One of the most important tasks in this sphere is the search for permeable beds suitable for intake, the delimitation of their thickness and extent (catchment areas), and then the location of favourable places for wells. This task is rather difficult because of thickness variations in and change of facies of the old‐pleistocene basin clay (Lauenburg clay) and the presence of Tertiary clay and fine clayey sands which, acting as impervious layers, often divide a permeable bed into several storage horizons. Further difficulties arise from the occurrence of brine bearing deposits near the coast, and water from the depths with a high salt content as a result of leaching processes around salt domes.

The problems arising in this connection are illustrated with the aid of examples from the Rheiderland. The following questions seem to be the most important:

a) the physical interpretation of the measurements with special regard to the principle of equivalence;

b) the correlation of the physical data with the subsurface geology.
A PRACTICAL METHOD OF CALCULATING GEOELECTRICAL MODEL GRAPHS FOR HORIZONTALLY STRATIFIED MEDIA*
Authors: FLATHE H.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

For the quantitative interpretation of field resistivity curves it is necessary to possess theoretically calculated standard graphs. The problem of calculating such graphs for certain parallel stratified media has been solved long ago. The methods developed so far, however, require facilities, which are not normally available to the geophysicist in the field. It has been shown by experience, that the catalogues of graphs, which have been made available for practical use, are inadequate, when the number of layers exceeds three. For this reason endeavours are made to find a method, to allow the geophysicist to calculate model graphs suited to any given special geological situation, with ordinary field facilities and without too great an expenditure of time. The principle of equivalence implies that such a model graph be known with a high accuracy.

To this end, a method for the calculation of model graphs for a series of parallel beds is described. This method is sufficiently simple – no series need to be summed up – to be applied by the geophysicist in practice, even during field work. The study of the kernel function in Stefanescu's integral representation of the “apparent” resistivity leads to a basis for the set of graphs. The prime elements of this basis form a one‐parametric curve‐system, by means of which the graph for any multi‐layer sequence of strata can be obtained to any degree of approximation by linear combination.

The importance of this method in practice is demonstrated with the help of examples.
SOME NOTES CONCERNING THE WENNER CONFIGURATION*
Authors: CARPENTER E. W.
Published: April 2006

This paper deals with the four electrode method of electrical resistivity prospecting using direct current. It is shown that three resistances can be measured for any four electrode configuration, and a simple relation between them is derived. The particular case of the Wenner electrode configuration is discussed and a further relation derived between the three apparent resistivities corresponding to the three resistances. The practical value of the ‐resistance relation as a means of avoiding experimental errors is indicated.

In general the three apparent resistivities are different in magnitude although there are certain particular cases where they are equal to one another. Their actual values are determined for a number of simple problems and the possibility of having a negative apparent resistivity is illustrated.

Finally, examples of field tests are given in which the three resistances were measured, and it is concluded that the method can often provide a simple way of distinguishing between the effects of lateral and vertical resistivity variations.
A NEW METHOD OF MEASURING THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD*
Authors: WATERS G. S. , PHILLIPS G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

This paper describes the measurement of the Earth's total magnetic field by a determination of the frequency of free precession around this field of the protons in a sample of water. The angular frequency of precession, ω, is related to the field F by the relationship ω=γpF where γp is the gyromagnetic ratio of the proton.

A bottle of water is magnetised in a direction approximately at right angles to the earth's field, by passing a current through a coil wound around the bottle. The current is switched off rapidly, leaving the magnetic moment vector to precess around the earth's field direction, inducing in the coil a small alternating voltage. This voltage is amplified and its frequency measured by means of a counter. The accuracy of measurement of the total field is estimated at ± 0.5γ.

In addition to the total field value, the form of the signal voltage contains information on the field gradient across the sample.

Simple theory, experimental details and results are given.
COMBINED ANALYSIS OF GRAVIMETRIC AND MAGNETIC ANOMALIES AND SOME PALAEOMAGNETIC RESULTS*
Authors: LUNDBAK ASGER
Published: April 2006

An attempt is made to interpret some magnetic anomalies in Denmark and Northern Holland. As the thickness of the nonmagnetic sediments in the areas is large, the interpretation must depend mainly on computational procedures, i.e. a combined analysis of gravimetric and magnetic anomalies, assuming that the two kinds of anomalies originate in the same body.

The mathematic basis of these computations is presented, and from this conclusions are drawn about both direction and intensity of the magnetism in the underlying rocks.

On this basis, the magnetic declination in these rocks appears to be westerly for all the areas considered. This declination is, of course, a combined effect of induced and remanent magnetization. The corresponding magnetic inclination is smaller than the inclination existing at the surface, and in several cases the magnetic inclination in the rocks is clearly negative, i.e. directed upwards.

Both the declination and the inclination in the rocks vary considerally from one locality to another. However, if we assume that these varying results are caused mainly by different ratios of the strengths of induced and remanent magnetism, the directions of remanent magnetism group themselves around a fixed declination, about ‐160°, and a fixed inclination, about ‐60°.

Estimates of the magnitude of both induced and remanent intensities of magnetization are contained in these conclusions. In both cases the magnitude may be of the order 10‐2 cgs units.

The hypothetical geomagnetic poles corresponding to this direction of natural remanence are situated near the central part of the northern Siberian coast and near that part of the Antarctic coast just south of South America.
A THEOREM CONCERNING ANISOTROPY OF STRATIFIED MEDIA AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR REFLECTION SEISMICS*
Authors: KREY Th. , HELBIG K.
Published: April 2006

It is proved that horizontally stratified media, the various materials of which do not differ in their Poisson number, can be considered as isotropic for reflections of a small dip when taking into account quasi‐longitudinal waves which have to be reckoned with in practice. Approximating the surface of the wave by an ellipsoid would, however, result in considerable errors.

Moreover, curves are presented allowing practical calculations for steeper dips to be made.
A SMALL‐SCALE FIELD INVESTIGATION OF MOTION NEAR THE SOURCE *)
Authors: MASON R. G.
Published: April 2006

A seismic field investigation on a reduced scale is described. A falling weight was used as the source of energy, with a recording system which permitted the display on a cathode ray oscillograph of two dimensional pictures of ground displacement in the vertical plane containing the source. These permit a quantitative study of the magnitude and direction of displacement and of the instantaneous velocity of motion.
THE USE OF NEAR SURFACE TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS FOR DISCOVERING ANOMALIES DUE TO CAUSES AT DEPTHS*
Authors: KAPPELMEYER O.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

In this paper an attempt has been made to evaluate the possibilities of determining subsurface features from temperature measurements made at shallow depths. The temperatures at the observation depth used are subject to seasonable variations. The amount of this variation differs, and these differences have been attributed to structural features. Local differences in temperature are also caused by surface factors such as the thermal conductivity of the soil, the vegetation and the micro‐climate. The differences in temperature due to surface factors are so great that the variation in heat flow caused by differing thermal conductivities of the rocks at depth cannot be detected at the surface. It is not possible therefore to use this method to determine the position of subsurface structures such as domes, anticlines or horsts.

It is also shown that concentrations of radioactive elements in the rocks do not provide any measurable heating.

The method has been successfully applied to the problem of finding fissures, cracks and similar features provided that convective heat transport from depth to the surface has taken place along these features. In order to compute the area through which a given amount of water at a given depth must pass to give a specific temperature increase a model has been considered. From the shape of the temperature anomaly above a fissure carrying such heated water, the places at which the rising water enters the groundwater stream can be seen immediately. It is possible to estimate the amount of rising water by computing the amount of heat energy transferred to the surface.

The method is particularly suitable for determining the position of steam deposits in regions of recent vulcanicity. In such a region a location, hitherto unknown, was found where steam rising from depth condenses beneath the surface.

The area and form of the anomaly indicate the extent in depth of this steam bearing zone. By means of observations made at the individual points, it was also possible to compute approximately the energy being released at the surface. This value can give an indication of the extent to which the steam deposits regenerate themselves.

Finally it has been shown that percolating canal water can be detected thermally near the canal banks. Such anomalies are dependent on the season.
MULTIPLY REFLECTED REFRACTIONS IN A SHALLOW LAYER.
Authors: O'BRIEN P. N. S.
Published: April 2006

A strong late arrival, with several cycles, has been observed in line refraction shooting, for distances ranging from 5000 to 30,000 feet. Using equations given by Officer (1953) it has been possible to establish that this event is a multiply reflected refraction. The conclusive factor was its very large amplitude which was about 60 times that expected for the simple head wave, at the distances involved. The wave‐guide was bounded by the surface of the earth and by the base of the Low Velocity layer, at a depth of about 80 feet.

An earlier paper (O'Brien, 1957a) gave a study of the head wave pulse refracted from this interface and the conclusions in the two papers are altogether compatible.
THE ESTIMATION OF THE LIMITING DEPTH OF GRAVITATING BODIES
Authors: BOTT M. H. P. , SMITH R. A.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Some new formulae for the rapid estimation from the gravity field of the maximum possible depth to the top surface of gravitating bodies of positive mass are stated, discussed and proved.
ON THE THEORY OF GAMMA RAY SCATTERING IN BOREHOLES*
Authors: HOMILIUS J. , LORCH S.
Published: April 2006

This paper deals with the theory of the gamma ray scattering method, which is applied in determinations of density, mainly in boreholes. In this method, the gamma radiation from a radioactive source is scattered round the borehole, and recorded by a detector which is protected against direct radiation by lead.

The theory is based on the scattering and absorption properties of matter with regard to gamma radiation, as described by the Klein‐Nishina formula in terms of the quantum theory. The single scattered portion of radiation, which is of particular importance, is calculated. In doing this an absorption dependent on the scattering angle, and a counter efficiency dependent on the energy of radiation and the angle of incidence, are taken into account. The range of the detector can also be considered.

For homogeneous soil, the dependence of the counting rate on the distance between source and detector, on the density, and on the screening of radiation by the lead absorber, is investigated.

Furthermore, the scattering range for various soil densities and distances between source and detector is also determined. The existence of a substantial degree of agreement between theory and experimental findings is demonstrated. Results are compared with those of the Djadkin diffusion theory, and are illustrated by means of examples of the gamma gamma probe and the gamma density meter for surface measurements.
THE PLUS‐MINUS METHOD OF INTERPRETING SEISMIC REFRACTION SECTIONS*
Authors: HAGEDOORN J. G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

The elastic impulse‐from an explosion is propagated through the earth as an expanding shell bounded by the wavefront. This wavefront and its motion are a physical reality while rays or trajectories are much less sharply defined and cannot actually be observed because the wavelengths involved in seismic processes are too long. This means that the visualization and the interpretation of seismic processes can be carried out in a more satisfactory, simple and comprehensible way with wavefronts than with rays.

H. R. Thornburgh (1930) introduced the very lucid and simple method of interpreting seismic refraction sections, using Huygen's principle to construct wavefronts from two symmetrical shotpoints by working back from their observed arrival times at the surface. The depths are found first with only a knowledge of the velocities down to the refractor and after that the velocities in the refractor can be determined.

The pattern of the two wavefronts at equal time intervals, obtained when carrying out Thornburgh's construction, leads to the very simple, approximative “Plus‐Minus” method. The additions of the travel times from two symmetrical shotpoints to‐each geophone give the relative depths and their subtractions give the velocities of the refractor. The method extrapolates exact quantities from the refractor boundary up to the surface by the “Plus”‐ and “Minus” lines. This extrapolation introduces errors that can, more or less, be corrected for. A number of hypothetical cases are presented to give an insight into the applicability and reliability of the “Plus‐Minus” method. Its main applications are for fairly shallow refraction investigations and for determining weathering corrections for refraction and reflection work.
DIRECTION SHOOTING*
Authors: BORTFELD R. , HÜRTGEN H. , KOPPEL H.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

By direction shooting is understood a method of continuous seismic profiling with shots distributed along the total length of the geophone spread, the shots being fired either with time delays in the field, or, recorded singly on magnetizable material and composited with time‐delays. Therewith, the subsurface can be probed in any desired direction, enhancing reflections from these directions and attenuating or eliminating events from all other directions. For each reflection, the correct delay can be found by a simple procedure from a single trial record.

A complete description of the method is given, inclusive of all procedures and proofs pertaining to it. Synthetic examples and field examples illustrate the efficiency of the method and its resolving power.
CONTRIBUTION DES ABAQUES BILOGARITHMIQUES A L'INTERPRETATION GRAVIMETRIQUE*
Authors: NAUDY H.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Among the means of comparing experimental anomalies with theoretical ones, logarithmic master curves constitute a very practical procedure. Theoretical anomalies for a large number of simple structures have been calculated once for all and drawn on logarithmic scale, in a condensed and handy way. The experimental anomalies are all represented in the same manner, and comparison with the master curves reveals one or several gravimetrically valid structures. If many master curves are available, various hypotheses can be put to the test.

Logarithmic master curves have the advantage of taking into account the whole of the anomaly to be interpreted. For each structure they furnish all parameters defining it: depth, dimensions, density contrast. As master curves can be used very quickly, several hypotheses for each anomaly can be tried out in a very short time, so as to associate a group of possible structures with the anomaly. This seems to be the best way of coping with the indeterminateness of the gravimetric method.
THE DETECTION OF CAVES BY GRAVITY MEASUREMENTS*
Authors: COLLEY G. C.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Caves will give rise to gravity minima detectable by the gravity meter if of sufficient volume in relation to their depth. The dimensions required for caves of different geometrical forms to give readable gravity effects are shown by curves. Maps are included of small, sharp gravity minima in Iraq which may be caused by solution caverns.
A LABORATORY INVESTIGATION INTO THE ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF LIMESTONES*
Authors: KOEFOED O. , OOSTERVELD M. M. , ALONS I. J. G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Measurements have been made by the resonance method of the longitudinal bar velocities and the transverse velocities of 29 chemically pure limestones of varying porosity. The elastic anisotropy factors of the limestones were found to vary over a wide range. For the isotropic limestones, both the longitudinal and the transverse velocity decrease in general with increasing porosity, but this decrease is somewhat irregular. The irregularities in the velocity were found to correlate with the irregularities in the electrical resistivity of the samples when saturated with a standard salt solution, and with those in their tensile strength. This correlation indicates an influence on the velocity of the geometry of the pore space of the rock and of its counterpart: the geometry of the matrix. Indications have been obtained that a condition akin to weathering may be partly responsible for the irregularities in the velocities.

Saturating the samples with water was found to result in a decrease of their velocities. An investigation of the available literature, combined with measurements made in our laboratory with a low frequency pulse method, indicate that water saturation results in a decrease of the velocity at low frequencies and in an increase of the velocity at high frequencies.

Since other investigators have shown that the velocities of dry rock are hardly effected by the frequency, one must conclude that the velocities of water saturated rock do change appreciably with frequency.

The values of Poisson's ratio were found to decrease with increasing porosity, but more so for the dry samples than for the water saturated samples. A possible explanation is that the cross‐contraction and cross‐dilatation is partly consumed in changing the diameters of the pores, thus reducing the effect on the outer diameter of the sample; this mechanism would be partly resisted by water filling the pores.