bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ifosfamide in Urologic Cancer
Authors: Boccardo F. , Guglielmini P.
Published: October 2003

The therapeutic activity of ifosfamide in urologic tumors has been reviewed. Ifosfamide has definite activity in nephroblastoma, where it represents the treatment of choice for children who are not cured by front-line chemotherapy, and for the adults who are diagnosed with this uncommon disease. Definite therapeutic activity has also been shown in patients with urothelial tract malignancies and it represents a major option for patients failing first-line cisplatin-based chemotherapy. However, promising results have been achieved in chemo-naïve patients in combination with taxanes or gemcitabine, though at the price of relevant toxicity. A modest activity has been shown by ifosfamide in renal cancer (including the sarcomatoid variant) and in hormone-refractory prostate cancer, which unfortunately respond poorly to cytotoxic chemotherapy. No results of ifosfamide in penile carcinoma are available so far.
Blood Stem Cell Collections after Mobilization with Combination Chemotherapy Containing Ifosfamide Followed by G-CSF in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Straka C. , Hebart H. , Adler-Reichel S. , Werding N. , Emmerich B. , Einsele H.
Published: October 2003

High-dose chemotherapy with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation is the standard treatment of patients with multiple myeloma today. In this study we used a combination mobilizing chemotherapy containing ifosfamide with G-CSF before stem cell collection. The chemotherapy regimen consisted of ifosfamide (2,500 mg/m2 days 1–3), epirubicin (100 mg/m2 day 1) and etoposide (150 mg/m2 days 1–3) followed by G-CSF (5 µg/kg from day 5). In 30 younger patients (median age 51 years; range 41–60 years) who received the IEV regimen in 100% dosage, a median of 11.15 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg (range 0–44.60 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg) was collected. In 22 elder patients (median age 64 years; range 59–72 years) similar collection results were obtained with a median of 10.82 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg (range 0.99–42.22 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg) after the IEV regimen in 75% dosage. The pretreatment chemotherapy cycles before mobilization were fewer in elder patients with a median of 0 cycles (range 0–7 cycles) compared with younger patients with a median of 4 cycles (range 0–7 cycles). These collection results were favorable and allowed to support a tandem transplantation procedure in younger and elder patients in 97 and 95%, respectively. In the majority of patients, the hematological toxicity of IEV was of WHO grade 3/4. The extramedullary toxicity was mild to moderate and there were only few cases (5–10%) of relevant nephrotoxicity or neurotoxicity associated with the application of ifosfamide.
Prevention of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Human Gastric Cancer Cells by Adjuvant-Type Intraperitoneal Immunotherapy in a SCID Mouse Model
Authors: Piso P. , Aselmann H. , von Wasielewski R. , Dahlke M.H. , Klempnauer J. , Schlitt H.J.
Published: October 2003

Purpose: We analyzed the effect of intraperitoneal immunotherapy in an animal model mimicking locoregional dissemination of tumor cells during resection of advanced tumors. Methods: We first established a tumor model with human gastric cancer cells (MKN-45) in the peritoneal cavity of CB-17-SCID mice. Three hours following the injection of tumor cells into the peritoneal cavity, mAb 17-1A alone and in combination with human LAK cells were given intraperitoneally at different dosages. The results were quantified by determining the weight of the peritoneal tumor masses. Results: After intraperitoneal administration of 17-1A mAb, a tumor reduction could be shown (median tumor mass after 10 µg mAb: 171 µg; after 100 µg: 130 µg) when compared with the control group (632 µg). Following a combined therapy with mAb and LAK cells, a statistically significant tumor reduction could be observed (after 10 µg mAb + 20–50 × 106 LAK cells: 80 µg; after 100 µg mAb + 20–50 × 106 LAK cells: 12 µg, p = 0.0005). With specific dosages of antibody and LAK cells it was even possible to achieve complete tumor clearance. Conclusions: Intraperitoneal immunotherapy reduces the peritoneal tumor masses and can even prevent the peritoneal carcinomatosis formation.
Effects of Parathyroidectomy on Iron Homeostasis and Erythropoiesis in Hemodialysis Patients with Severe Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Lee Chien-Te , Chou Fong-Fu , Chang Hsueh-Wen , Hsu Yun-Hsuan , Lee Wen-Chin , Liao Shang-Chih , Chen Jin-Bor
Published: October 2003

Aims: Secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) worsens anemia and may cause hyporesponsiveness to recombinant human erythropoietin therapy (r-HuEPO). To investigate the effect of parathyroidectomy (PTX) on iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis, we conducted a prospective study in chronic hemodialysis patients who underwent PTX. Methods: Thirty-two patients were enrolled in this study. Based on the increases in hemoglobin level after PTX, patients were divided into responders and nonresponders. Iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis were assessed before and 1 and 3 months after PTX, hemoglobin and parathyroid hormone levels were monitored until 6 months after PTX. Results: In the responders, increased hemoglobin levels were observed in 15 patients at 1 and 3 months after PTX (8.0 ± 0.8 g/dl vs. 9.2 ± 1.3 and 10.1 ± 0.9 g/dl, p < 0.05). The nonresponders had higher pre-PTX hemoglobin levels than the responders (10.3 ± 1.6 g/dl vs. 8.0 ± 0.8 g/dl, p < 0.05). There was no further increase in hemoglobin at 6 months compared to 3 months after PTX in both groups. In neither group did PTX affect serum ferritin, transferrin saturation and serum erythropoietin level. Serum soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) concentration was found to be higher in responders than in nonresponders (3.32 ± 1.28 mg/l vs. 1.70 ± 0.31 mg/l, p < 0.05). Conclusions: We conclude that PTX can improve anemia in hemodialysis patients with severe hyperparathyroidism and greater resistance to r-HuEPO therapy. The reversing of anemia does not involve altering iron mobilization. Pre-PTX hemoglobin and serum sTfR levels can predict the effect of PTX on correcting anemia.
Coupled Plasma Filtration Adsorption: Rationale, Technical Development and Early Clinical Experience
Authors: Ronco Claudio , Brendolan Alessandra , d’Intini Vincenzo , Ricci Zaccaria , Wratten Mary Lou , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: October 2003

The adjuvant treatment of sepsis remains a major therapeutic challenge. Blood purification is theoretically appealing if the humoral theory of sepsis is accepted as the basis for intervention. In this setting, blood purification would provide a broad-based restoration of humoral homeostasis thereby avoiding both excessive inflammation and counterinflammation. Several techniques of blood purification have been tried or are under active investigation. One of these is the so-called coupled plasma filtration adsorption (CPFA). CPFA is a novel extracorporeal blood purification therapy aimed at nonselectively reducing the circulating levels and activities of both pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators during sepsis and multiorgan failure. In vitro studies have shown CPFA to be effective in binding a broad range of such mediators proving its technical efficacy. Subsequent animal models have shown a beneficial effect on survival in endotoxemia. These studies have provided the necessary technical developments and biologic rationale for initial human studies. Two phase I/IIa clinical studies have now been performed. Both studies have shown that CPFA improves blood pressure and restores immune function in patients with severe sepsis and multiorgan dysfunction. In this article, we will discuss some of the basic principles involved in sorbent technology, and how these may contribute to treatment efficacy, review animal experiments with CPFA and finally discuss the results of recent human studies and their implications.
Comparison of Fecal Flora following Administration of Two Antibiotic Protocols for Suspected Maternofetal Infection
Authors: Bonnemaison E. , Lanotte Ph. , Cantagrel S. , Thionois S. , Quentin R. , Chamboux C. , Laugier J.
Published: October 2003

Two protocols are used by French neonatologists for the treatment of suspected maternofetal infection (SMFI). Three groups of premature and term neonates were included to study the impact of antibiotics on fecal flora: 10 infants with SMFI treated with amoxicillin and netilmicin (group BI), 10 infants with SMFI treated with amoxicillin, cefotoxime and netilmicin (group TRI) and 10 infants without antibiotic therapy as controls (group C). Group BI samples were colonized with Klebsiella oxytoca and Escherichia coli resistant to amoxicillin and by Enterococcus faecium and coagulase-negative staphylococci. In group TRI biodiversity of the intestinal flora was low, with rapid growth of staphyloccoci and occurrence of Candida spp. These modifications of the intestinal flora should encourage us to use antibiotic treatment as targeted as possible.
Endoscopic, Histological and Serologic Findings of Gastric Hyperplastic Polyps after Eradication of Helicobacter pylori: Comparison between Responder and Non-Responder Cases
Authors: Ohkusa Toshifumi , Miwa Hiroto , Hojo Mariko , Kumagai Jiro , Tanizawa Toru , Asaoka Daisuke , Terai Takeshi , Ohkura Ryuichi , Sato Nobuhiro
Published: October 2003

Background: Evidence indicates that eradication of Helicobacter pylori leads to the disappearance of hyperplastic polyps in the stomach. However, there are some exceptions. We have compared endoscopic and serologic findings of responder and non-responder cases with hyperplastic polyps to try to identify the cause(s), other than H. pylori infection, of the formation or growth of gastric hyperplastic polyps. Methods: We retrospectively studied 33 patients whose hyperplastic polyps disappeared after eradication of H. pylori and 10 patients whose hyperplastic polyps did not disappear after eradication. The patients were examined both endoscopically and serologically before, 1–3 months after and 12–15 months after the eradication. Results: The responder and non-responder groups were similar with respect to age, sex, coexisting diseases, and histologic findings. The number and maximum size of polyps tended to be larger before treatment in the non-responder group than in the responder group. The serum gastrin level was higher in the non-responder group than in the responder group before, 1–3 months after and 12–15 months after the eradication (p = 0.0096, p > 0.2, p = 0.0014). On histologic examination, similar reductions in the degree of inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa of the antrum and body were seen in both the responder and non-responder groups. In the non-responders, the size and numbers of the polyps regressed in 5 of the 10 patients. The score of glandular atrophy in the antrum and the serum gastrin levels in the non-regressed cases was higher than those in the regressed cases at 1–3 and 12–15 months after eradication. Conclusion: Persistent high gastrin levels were found in the non-responder cases with gastric hyperplastic polyps.
An Open-Label Pilot Study of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor for the Treatment of Severe Endoscopic Postoperative Recurrence in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Dejaco Clemens , Lichtenberger Conny , Miehsler Wolfgang , Oberhuber Georg , Herbst Friedrich , Vogelsang Harald , Gangl Alfred , Reinisch Walter
Published: October 2003

Background/Aim: Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) promoted healing of Crohn’s disease (CD)-like intestinal lesions in chronic granulomatous disease and glycogen storage disease Ib, both characterized by defective neutrophil functions. We performed a prospective, open-label pilot study with rhG-CSF for the treatment of CD. Patients andMethods: Five patients with clinically inactive CD, but with severe endoscopic ileitis within 1 year after intestinal resection and ileocolonic anastomosis, received 300 µg of rhG-CSF (Filgrastim; Neupogen®) subcutaneously, three times weekly for a total of 12 weeks. Safety was evaluated by assessment of clinical and laboratory data and disease activity. The primary parameter of efficacy was complete mucosal healing, as defined by the Rutgeerts score. Anti-inflammatory mediators were repeatedly measured during treatment. Results: All patients completed the protocol in clinical remission. In 1 subject transient headache resolved after halving the rhG-CSF dosage. Complete mucosal healing was observed in 2 patients: in 1 patient after 12 weeks of therapy and in 1 patient 9 months after treatment cessation. In a single patient, closure of an anovaginal and of a perianal fistula was noted. Neutrophil counts and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor p55 and p75 levels were found to be increased during drug administration. Conclusion: rhG-CSF seems to be safe, well tolerated, and might provide efficacy in CD.
Combined Assessment of Cardiac Systolic Dysfunction and Coronary Atherosclerosis Used to Predict Future Cardiac Deaths after Starting Hemodialysis
Authors: Joki Nobuhiko , Hase Hiroki , Saijyo Tomokatsu , Tanaka Yuri , Takahashi Yasunori , Ishikawa Hiroyasu , Nakamura Ryoichi , Fukazawa Masayuki , Inishi Yoji , Nakamura Masato , Imamura Yoshihiko
Published: October 2003

Background/Aims: Identification of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients at high risk for cardiac events is important for clinical dialysis management. The present study determined whether the combination of cardiac function and coronary atherosclerosis could predict future cardiac events after starting renal replacement therapy (RRT). Methods: We prospectively assessed left ventricle ejection fraction (EF) and Gensini score (GS) using angiographic severity of coronary atherosclerosis in 88 consecutive ESRD patients [mean age 62 years; 69 males (78%); 55 patients (64%) with diabetic nephropathy] at the initiation of RRT. EF was analyzed by echocardiogram, and GS was scored by coronary angiography within 3 months after starting RRT. The study end point was cardiac death. For analysis of the association between cardiac death and EF and GS measures, the univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value, and accuracy of event-free prediction were evaluated. Results: Twenty-four patients (27%) had low cardiac function (EF <50%; low EF) and 44 patients (50%) had severe coronary atherosclerosis (GS >15; high GS). During a follow-up period of 3 years, cardiac death occurred in 21 patients (24%). The PPV of low EF and high GS was 42 and 39%, respectively; the highest PPV (53%) was obtained when low EF and high GS were combined. The cumulative survival rate at 5 years in patients with both low EF and high GS was significantly lower than those with high EF and low GS (91 vs. 22%, p < 0.0005). Conclusion: The combined assessment of cardiac function and coronary atherosclerosis at the initiation of RRT strongly predicts future cardiac events.
Relative Roles of Nitric Oxide, Prostanoids and Angiotensin II in the Regulation of Canine Glomerular Hemodynamics
Authors: Kramer Herbert J. , Horacek Vladislav , Bäcker Angela , Vaneckova Ivana , Heller Jiri
Published: October 2003

Glomerular hemodynamics are controlled by a variety of physical, nervous and hormonal factors including the potent vasoconstrictors, angiotensin (ANG) II and endothelin-1 (ET-1), and the vasodilator prostanoids (prostaglandin = PG) and nitric oxide (NO). Since no micropuncture data on the canine kidney exist with respect to the relative roles of the endogenous vasoactive hormones/autacoids NO, PG and ANG II in modulating glomerular hemodynamics, in the present study using the micropuncture technique in anesthetized dogs on a normal salt intake, we investigated the relative effects of these hormones/autacoids by means of the L-arginine analog, Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME), a competitive NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor, the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (INDO), and the AT1 receptor blocker EXP 3174. An intrarenal arterial (i.r.a.) bolus (within 5 min) of 2.5 mg of L-NAME led to a significant decrease in total renal blood flow (RBF) and single nephron glomerular blood flow (SNGBF) from 4.46 ± 0.51 to 3.52 ± 0.41 ml/min/g kidney weight and from 0.393 ± 0.041 to 0.341 ± 0.037 µl/min (p < 0.01), respectively, without a change in glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The increase in arteriolar resistance was more pronounced at the efferent (+31%) than at the afferent (+13%) arteriole, and Kf decreased from 4.5 ± 0.5 to 3.7 ± 0.4 nl/min/mm Hg (p < 0.01). INDO (5 mg/kg i.v. bolus followed by 0.17 mg/kg/min i.v.) had no effect on glomerular hemodynamics. EXP 3174 (30 µg/kg/min i.r.a.) increased RBF and SNGBF from 4.35 ± 0.45 to 4.99 ± 0.50 ml/min/g kidney weight and from 0.403 ± 0.028 to 0.478 ± 0.039 µl/min (p < 0.01), respectively, without an effect on GFR. It reduced the efferent arteriolar resistance by 25% as compared to 13% at the afferent arteriolar level. EXP 3174 increased Kf from 5.1 ± 0.4 to 8.1 ± 0.6 mm Hg (p < 0.01) in the presence of a decrease in effective filtration pressure from 13.2 ± 1.7 to 8.3 ± 1.0  mm Hg (p < 0.01). The glomerular hemodynamic effects of L-NAME were unaltered by pretreatment with INDO or EXP 3174, whereas its tubular effects were restored in the presence of EXP 3174. Thus, from these first micropuncture data in the anesthetized dog on a normal sodium intake we conclude that (1) acute intrarenal inhibition of NOS by L-NAME decreases RBF and SNGBF due to vasoconstriction of the afferent and, more pronounced, efferent arterioles. Since L-NAME simultaneously decreases Kf, GFR remains unaltered. (2) These renal hemodynamic effects of NOS inhibition were not mediated by prostanoids or intrarenal ANG II. Thus, the tonic activity of intrarenal NOS plays an important role in maintaining glomerular hemodynamics in the canine kidney.
Tóπoι e i'δια nella Retorica di Aristotele
Authors: Rubinelli Sara
Published: November 2003

Il passo della Retorica (1358 a 10-21) dove è introdotta la distinzione τóπoι e i'δια è uno dei più controversi dell'opera aristotelica. Il presente lavoro propone un chiarimento della natura e del ruolo di τóπoι e i'δια nella costruzione di un'argomentazione dialettico-retorica. Tale chiarimento viene presentato attraverso un confronto tra Topici e Retorica che, se pur espressamente evidenziato da Aristotele stesso, sembra essere stato trascurato da quanti si sono occupati dell'esegesi di tale sezione della Retorica.
Treatment of chronic respiratory failure: lung volume reduction surgeryversusrehabilitation
Authors: Decramer M.
Published: October 2003

Several treatment options are available for end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Respiratory rehabilitation and lung volume reduction surgery are reviewed here. Respiratory rehabilitation can now be considered a prime treatment for COPD. Indeed, it has been clearly shown to improve exercise capacity and health status in these patients. Improvements in the former fell just below the minimal clinically important difference, whereas those in the latter exceeded it. In addition, after a respiratory rehabilitation programme, a reduction in the number of hospital admissions and duration of each admission was demonstrated.

It remains, however, difficult to predict accurately which patients will improve after rehabilitation and which will not. Factors that may contribute to this prediction are: baseline peak exercise ventilation/maximal voluntary ventilation, maximal inspiratory pressure, peripheral muscle force, and 6‐min walking distance. Several studies have clearly shown that training effects are as pronounced in patients with severe as in those with moderate airflow obstruction. This is the most significant insight in this area of the 1990s.

Lung volume reduction surgery may also be of benefit in patients with end-stage COPD. It is clear that lung function, exercise capacity and health status improve after this procedure, although the results of only six randomised studies are currently available.

It remains difficult to accurately predict which patients will benefit from the procedure. From a model analysis, the most important action mechanism appears to be resizing of the lungs. Only in patients with an increased residual volume/total lung capacity ratio are beneficial effects expected. The model analysis, however, did not fit the experimental data very well in a recent publication. Emphysema heterogeneity is also likely to be related to the response. The question remains as to whether or not lung volume reduction surgery accelerates the decline in forced expiratory volume in one second in the long run. The technique is undergoing considerable progress as numerous new surgical and endoscopic procedures are currently being developed. The results of these procedures have not yet been systematically evaluated.
Physical and biological triggers of ventilator-induced lung injury and its prevention
Authors: Gattinoni L. , Carlesso E. , Cadringher P. , Valenza F. , Vagginelli F. , Chiumello D.
Published: October 2003

Ventilator-induced lung injury is a side-effect of mechanical ventilation. Its prevention or attenuation implies knowledge of the sequence of events that lead from mechanical stress to lung inflammation and stress at rupture.

A literature review was undertaken which focused on the link between the mechanical forces in the diseased lung and the resulting inflammation/rupture.

The distending force of the lung is the transpulmonary pressure. This applied force, in a homogeneous lung, is shared equally by each fibre of the lung's fibrous skeleton. In a nonhomogeneous lung, the collapsed or consolidated regions do not strain, whereas the neighbouring fibres experience excessive strain. Indeed, if the global applied force is excessive, or the fibres near the diseased regions experience excessive stress/strain, biological activation and/or mechanical rupture are observed. Excessive strain activates macrophages and epithelial cells to produce interleukin‐8. This cytokine recruits neutrophils, with consequent full-blown inflammation.

In order to prevent initiation of ventilator-induced lung injury, transpulmonary pressure must be kept within the physiological range. The prone position may attenuate ventilator-induced lung injury by increasing the homogeneity of transpulmonary pressure distribution. Positive end-expiratory pressure may prevent ventilator-induced lung injury by keeping open the lung, thus reducing the regional stress/strain maldistribution. If the transpulmonary pressure rather than the tidal volume per kilogram of body weight is taken into account, the contradictory results of the randomised trials dealing with different strategies of mechanical ventilation may be better understood.
Forced response analysis of a shaft-driven lift fan
Authors: Sayma A I , Vahdati M , Lee S J , Imregun M
Published: October 2003

The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the multi-bladerow forced response analyses carried out on a shaft-driven lift fan. The lift fan, used for vertical landing and take-off, is situated behind the cockpit and contains seven bladerows, of which two are counter-rotating rotors. The aim of the analysis is to determine the maximum vibration amplitudes of the two rotor bladerows for a range of configurations and speeds. Unlike typical axial-flow compressors, a significant part of the unsteady aerodynamic excitation is due to the distortion of the inlet flow over the cockpit and fuselage, a situation that creates several low engine-order harmonics. In addition, the main blade passing harmonics, arising from the bladerows immediately upstream, also need to be considered. Both the blading and the inlet geometry are difficult to discretize, the former due to overlapping bladerows and the latter due to complexity of the aircraft geometry including the louvred doors. The forced response analysis methodology is based on using an integrated aeroelasticity model which combines a non-linear, time-accurate, viscous unsteady flow representation with a modal model of the structure. The rotor vibration response was assessed at various shaft speeds for both stationary aircraft and at a number of flight speeds and yaw angles. Wherever possible, the findings were compared against measured experimental data and good agreement was obtained in most cases. The main conclusion is the feasibility of being able to use a numerical tool as an integral part of the design process, a route that allows a much more efficient coverage of the flight envelope compared to actual rig and engine tests.
Fourier analysis of holographic data from a noisy disc brake and its implication for modelling
Authors: Talbot C , Fieldhouse J D
Published: October 2003

Double pulsed laser holography is used to obtain images with fringe lines giving detailed information about the mode of vibration of a braking system generating high-frequency noise or squeal. If the images obtained are digitized, it is shown to be possible, using image processing techniques, to develop algorithms that determine the displacement field of the exposed part of the disc surface.

Using least-squares mathematical approximations it is then feasible to generate Fourier series type representations of the out-of-plane motion of the vibrating disc. Holograms of the disc rim can also be analysed to show how the vibrating motion varies throughout the thickness of the disc (in-plane motion). The results demonstrate the existence of travelling waves as well as significantly large amplitude and quite complex in-plane vibrations. Implications for the construction of mathematical models of disc brake noise are discussed.
Performance comparison of vehicle suspensions featuring two different electrorheological shock absorbers
Authors: Choi Seung-Bok
Published: October 2003

This paper proposes a novel type of semi-active electrorheological (ER) shock absorber for a small-sized passenger vehicle. The field-dependent damping forces of the proposed orifice type of ER shock absorber are experimentally evaluated and compared with those of a conventional cylinder type of ER shock absorber. The governing equations of motion for a vehicle suspension system equipped with ER shock absorbers are derived and an optimal controller is designed to attenuate vibration due to bump and random road excitations. Control responses such as vertical acceleration of the vehicle body are evaluated in time and frequency domains, and comparative work is done between the orifice type and cylinder type of ER shock absorbers.
Basic characteristics of direct injection combustion fuelled with compressed natural gas and gasoline using a rapid compression machine
Authors: Huang Z , Shiga S , Ueda T , Nakamura H , Ishima T , Obokata T , Tsue M , Kono M
Published: October 2003

The basic characteristics of direct injection (DI) combustion fuelled with compressed natural gas (CNG) and gasoline was studied using a rapid compression machine. The characteristics of stratified combustion and emission of natural gas and gasoline direct injection at the optimum injection settings over a wide range of equivalence ratios were investigated. The results showed that, similar to premixed combustion, natural gas stratified combustion was of shorter duration than gasoline DI combustion. In contrast to this, the heat release pattern for gasoline DI combustion was similar to that of diesel combustion, which seems to have both a premixed phase and a diffusion phase. This phenomenon tends to be more obvious at a lower overall equivalence ratio, which suggests that fuel and charge stratification have a great influence on DI stratified charge combustion. Thus, this faster burn for natural gas promotes extremely lean combustion and a higher pressure rise. However, natural gas DI stratified combustion produces more hydrocarbons (HC) than gasoline DI stratified combustion at a low overall equivalence ratio. Combustion effciency is at the same level for the two fuels, and natural gas DI combustion was shown to have a slightly leaner combustion capability than gasoline DI combustion, which suggests the better feasibility of natural gas stratified combustion.
Image Threshold and Segmentation
Authors: Russ John C.
Published: October 2003

The process of reducing a gray scale or color image to a binary (black and white) image in which distinct features are isolated (usually for measurement) is called thresholding or segmentation. The words refer to slightly different but overlapping sets of procedures. Thresholding usually implies the selection of a range of gray scale or color values that distinguish the features from the background. It is widely used and very fast since it operates globally on images, but often does not provide perfect delineation of features because some pixels (particularly along feature edges) are misclassified, and features may touch each other. Segmentation implies the separation of features from the background and each other, usually based on local comparison of pixel values along feature boundaries. These methods are often slow, may not find all of the features present, and sometimes require assumptions about the shape or size of the features.
Infrared Thermography
Authors: Griffith Brent , Türler Daniel , Goudey Howdy
Published: October 2003

Infrared (IR) thermographic systems, or IR imagers, provide images that represent surface temperatures, orthermograms, by measuring the magnitude of infrared radiation emanating from the surface of an object. Because IR imagers see the radiation naturally emitted by objects, imaging may be performed in the absence of any additional light source. Modern IR imagers resolve surface temperature differences of 0.1 °C or less. At this high sensitivity, they can evaluate subtle thermal phenomena that are revealed only as slight temperature gradients. Some applications that employ IR thermography include inspections for predictive maintenance, nondestructive evaluation of thermal and mechanical properties, building science, military reconnaissance and weapons guidance, and medical imaging.

Infrared thermography can be used both as a qualitative and a quantitative tool. Some applications do not require exact surface temperatures. In such cases, it is sufficient to acquirethermal signatures, characteristic patterns of relative temperatures of phenomena or objects. This method of qualitative visual inspection is expedient for collecting a large number of detailed data and conveying them, so that they can be easily interpreted. In contrast, accurate quantitative thermography demands a more rigorous procedure to extract valid temperature maps from raw thermal images. However, the extra effort can produce large arrays of high‐resolution temperature data that are unrivaled by contact thermal measurement techniques, such as using thermocouple wires. A skilled operator of an IR thermographic system, orthermographer, must be conscious of the possibility that reflected or transmitted, rather than emitted, IR radiation may be emanating from an object. These additional sources manifest themselves as signals that appear to be, but are not actually, based exclusively on the temperature of the spot being imaged.

To understand the challenges and possibilities of IR thermography, it is necessary to review the principles of physics on which it relies. Types of imaging systems, guidance and good practice in operation are covered.
Wavelet Transforms
Authors: Rao Raghuveer
Published: October 2003

In a 1984 paper, Grossman and Morlet investigated the problem of representing square‐integrable functions by using shifts and dilations of a single function called a wavelet. The motivation lay in the fact that there is evidence for the usefulness of such representations in analyzing seismic traces. Although earlier articles dealing with similar problems can be found, the Grossman–Morlet paper provides an integral transform along with conditions under which one can invert the transform. Thus was born the field of wavelet transforms. Subsequent developments in the field such as the formulation of discrete basis functions, the relationship to subband filtering, and the application to signal/image processing have contributed to widespread interest in the subject. The purpose of this article is to provide a short overview of wavelet transforms and their application to certain image processing problems.
Evidence for shared susceptibility in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Berrettini Wade
Published: October 2003

This article reviews evidence that bipolar disorder (BPD) and schizophrenia (SZ) share familial risk characteristics. The topic is introduced with a brief discussion of various shared epidemiologic characteristics of SZ and BPD. Family studies of BPD and SZ, conducted by multiple independent groups of investigators, are consistent with partial overlap in familial susceptibility. Given that the family study data suggest overlap in familial susceptibility for BPD and SZ, several confirmed linkages of BPD or SZ are reviewed, with the conclusion that there are five genomic regions for which evidence suggests shared genetic susceptibility of BPD and SZ. It is suggested that nosology must be changed to reflect the genetic origins of the multiple disorders that are collectively described by the terms BPD and SZ. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epigenetics and bipolar disorder: New opportunities and challenges
Authors: Petronis Arturas
Published: October 2003

Despite significant effort, understanding of the molecular causes and mechanisms of bipolar disorder (BD) remains a major challenge. Numerous molecular genetic linkage and association studies have been conducted over the last two decades; however, the data are quite inconsistent or even controversial. This article develops an argument that molecular studies of BD would benefit significantly from adding an epigenetic (epiG) perspective. EpiG factors refer to modifications of DNA and chromatin that “orchestrate” the activity of the genome, including regulation of gene expression. EpiG mechanisms are consistent with various non‐Mendelian features of BD such as the relatively high degree of discordance in monozygotic (MZ) twins, the critical age group for susceptibility to the disease, clinical differences in males and females, and fluctuation of the disease course, including interchanges of manic and depressive phases, among others. Apart from the phenomenological consistency, molecular epiG peculiarities may shed new light on the understanding of controversial molecular genetic findings. The relevance of epigenetics for the molecular studies of BD is demonstrated using the examples of genetic studies of BD on chromosome 11p and the X chromosome. A spectrum of epiG mechanisms such as genomic imprinting, tissue‐specific effects, paramutagenesis, and epiG polymorphism, as well as epiG regulation of X chromosome inactivation, is introduced. All this serves the goal of demonstrating that epiG factors cannot be ignored anymore in complex phenotypes such as BD, and systematic large‐scale epiG studies of BD have to be initiated. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesechemie expandierter Porphyrine
Authors: Sessler Jonathan L. , Seidel Daniel
Published: October 2003

Expandierte Porphyrine sind synthetische Analoga der Porphyrine und unterscheiden sich von diesen und anderen natürlichen makrocyclischen Tetrapyrrolen durch einen größeren zentralen Ring mit mindestens 17 Atomen, wobei die ausgedehnte Konjugation erhalten bleibt, die die biologischen Pigmente kennzeichnet. Durch die Erweiterung des zentralen Rings entstehen Verbindungen mit neuen spektralen und elektronischen Merkmalen, ungewöhnlichen Komplexbildungseigenschaften und in vielen Fällen der Eigenschaft, in bestimmten Protonierungszuständen Anionen zu binden. Zum Interesse an den expandierten Porphyrinen trägt auch ihre Schlüsselrolle bei der Klärung von Fragen zur Aromatizität bei. In vielen Fällen weisen sie in der Chemie der Porphyrine einmalige Strukturmerkmale auf, z. B. die nichtplanaren Figure‐Eight‐Konformationen. Dieser Aufsatz beschreibt schwerpunktmäßig die heute verwendeten Syntheseverfahren für expandierte Porphyrine und geht daneben auf spezielle Anwendungsaspekte ein.
Titelbild: Kompetitive Bindungsstudien leicht gemacht – mit nativem Marker und massenspektrometrischer Quantifizierung (Angew. Chem. 42/2003)
Authors: Höfner Georg , Wanner Klaus Theodor
Published: October 2003

Massenspektrometrische Methoden sind nun auch bei kompetitiven Bindungsstudien auf dem Vormarsch. Solche Studien sind in der Pharmaforschung zur Charakterisierung von Ligand‐Target‐Wechselwirkungen weit verbreitet und nutzen in der Regel radioaktive Liganden. Mithilfe der Massenspektrometrie ist es nun möglich, auf derartige Liganden zu verzichten und stattdessen native Marker einzusetzen. Mehr dazu lesen Sie in der Zuschrift von G. Höfner und K. T. Wanner auf S. 5393 ff., die die ersten Bindungsstudien nach diesem Prinzip am Beispiel von Dopamin‐D1‐Rezeptoren beschreiben.
Advances in the Synthesis of Inorganic Nanotubes and Fullerene‐Like Nanoparticles
Authors: Tenne Reshef
Published: October 2003

In analogy to graphite, nanoparticles of inorganic compounds with lamellar two‐dimensional structure, such as MoS2, are not stable against folding, and can adopt nanotubular and fullerene‐like structures, nicknamed inorganic fullerenes or IF. Various applications for such nanomaterials were proposed. For instance, IF‐WS2 nanoparticles were shown to have beneficial effects as solid lubricants and as part of tribological surfaces. Further applications of IF for high‐tensile‐strength fibers, hydrogen storage, rechargeable batteries, catalysis, and in nanotechnology are being contemplated. This Minireview highlights some of the latest developments in the synthesis of inorganic nanotubes and fullerene‐like structures. Some structural aspects and properties of IF, which are distinct from the bulk materials, are briefly discussed.
Space–time patterns of co‐variation of biodiversity and primary production in phytoplankton guilds of coastal marine environments
Authors: Vadrucci Maria Rosaria , Vignes Fabio , Fiocca Annita , Basset Alberto , Santarpia Immacolata , Carrada Gian Carlo , Cabrini Marina , Umani Serena Fonda
Published: October 2003

The relevance of biodiversity to ecosystem processes is a major topic in ecology. Here, we analyse the relationship between biodiversity and productivity of the nano‐ and micro‐phytoplankton guilds in coastal marine ecosystems.

The patterns of variation of species richness, diversity and primary productivity (as 14C assimilation) were studied in two marine areas: a eutrophic–mesotrophic area beside the River Po delta (northern Adriatic) and an oligotrophic area around the Salento peninsula (southern Adriatic–Ionian). The study was carried out at 23 sites in the northern area and at 45 sites in the southern area. Sites were arranged on expected spatial and temporal gradients of primary productivity variation, according to distance from the coast, optical depths and seasonal period.

167 taxa were identified in the northern area and 153 taxa in the southern area. In both areas, the taxonomic composition of the nano‐ and micro‐phytoplankton guilds exhibited greater temporal than spatial variation. The latter was much higher in the southern area than in the northern area (average dissimilarity between stations being 70.7±0.8% and 44.7±4.2% respectively).

Primary productivity varied in space and time on the gradients considered. Phytoplankton species richness and diversity exhibited significant patterns of variation in space and time; overall, these were inversely related to the primary productivity patterns in the northern area, whereas they were directly related in the southern area.

The small individual size and the high turnover rate of phytoplankton are likely to underlie the observed relationships, which emphasized a threshold response to nutrient enrichment in agreement with the ‘paradox of enrichment’. Under resource enrichment conditions, the high turnover of producers leads to hierarchical partitioning of the available resources with an increasing dominance of a few species. Therefore, the relationship observed here seems likely to be explained by the complementarity hypothesis.

Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The determination of ecological status in shallow lakes — a tested system (ECOFRAME) for implementation of the European Water Framework Directive
Authors: Moss Brian , Stephen Deborah , Alvarez Cristina , Becares Eloy , Bund Wouter Van De , Collings S.E. , Donk Ellen Van , Eyto Elvira De , Feldmann Tõnnu , Fernández‐Aláez Camino , Fernández‐Aláez Margarita , Franken Rob J.M. , García‐Criado Francisco , Gross Elisabeth M. , Gyllström Mikael , Hansson Lars‐Anders , Irvine Kenneth , Järvalt Ain , Jensen Jens‐Peder , Jeppesen Erik , Kairesalo Timo , Kornijów Ryszard , Krause Teet , Künnap Helen , Laas Alo , Lill Evi , Lorens Bogdan , Luup Helen , Rosa Miracle Maria , Nõges Peeter , Nõges Tiina , Nykänen Mirva , Ott Ingmar , Peczula Wojciech , Peeters Edwin T.H.M. , Phillips Geoff , Romo Susanna , Russell Victoria , Salujõe Jaana , Scheffer Marten , Siewertsen Klaus , Smal Halina , Tesch Claudia , Timm Henn , Tuvikene Lea , Tonno Ilmar , Virro Taavi , Vicente Eduardo , Wilson David
Published: October 2003

The European Water Framework Directive requires the determination of ecological status in European fresh and saline waters. This is to be through the establishment of a typology of surface water bodies, the determination of reference (high status) conditions in each element (ecotype) of the typology and of lower grades of status (good, moderate, poor and bad) for each ecotype. It then requires classification of the status of the water bodies and their restoration to at least ‘good status’ in a specified period.

Though there are many methods for assessing water quality, none has the scope of that defined in the Directive. The provisions of the Directive require a wide range of variables to be measured and give only general guidance as to how systems of classification should be established. This raises issues of comparability across States and of the costs of making the determinations.

Using expert workshops and subsequent field testing, a practicable pan‐European typology and classification system has been developed for shallow lakes, which can easily be extended to all lakes. It is parsimonious in its choice of determinands, but based on current limnological understanding and therefore as cost‐effective as possible.

A core typology is described, which can be expanded easily in particular States to meet local conditions. The core includes 48 ecotypes across the entire European climate gradient and incorporates climate, lake area, geology of the catchment and conductivity.

The classification system is founded on a liberal interpretation of Annexes in the Directive and uses variables that are inexpensive to measure and ecologically relevant. The need for taxonomic expertise is minimized.

The scheme has been through eight iterations, two of which were tested in the field on tranches of 66 lakes. The final version, Version 8, is offered for operational testing and further refinement by statutory authorities.

Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ductal lavage in patients undergoing mastectomy for mammary carcinoma
Authors: Brogi Edi , Robson Mark , Panageas Katherine S. , Casadio Chiara , Ljung Britt‐Marie , Montgomery Leslie
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

Ductal lavage (DL) is a new method for the sampling of breast epithelium. Data regarding its sensitivity in the detection of epithelial abnormalities, including carcinoma in situ (CIS), remains limited.

METHODS

DL was performed in the affected breasts of 26 women undergoing mastectomy for mammary carcinoma and in the clinically normal breast of 4 additional women undergoing risk‐reducing mastectomy. After surgery, dye was injected through the microcatheter used for DL. Three cytopathologists independently reviewed all DL slides and the data reflect consensus by at least two reviewers. Interobserver agreement was assessed. The findings in DL samples were correlated with the features of CIS in the mastectomy specimens.

RESULTS

Four (14%) of 29 DL samples satisfactory for evaluation showed marked atypia, 10 (34%) showed mild atypia, and 15 (52%) were benign. No DL sample was clearly malignant. Interobserver agreement was good (average kappa = 0.52). Of the DL samples satisfactory for evaluation, 27 had been obtained from 24 breasts containing CIS, which included 18 ductal CIS (DCIS), 3 lobular CIS (LCIS), 2 DCIS and LCIS, and 1 solid CIS with mixed ductal and lobular features. Invasive carcinoma was present in 20 samples. Two DL samples from breasts with extensive LCIS showed mild atypia and injected dye was identified in ducts and lobules involved by LCIS.

CONCLUSIONS

DL had low sensitivity for CIS in breasts that also contained invasive carcinoma. The use of DL remains investigational, and close follow‐up should be continued for all patients undergoing DL, including those with benign diagnoses. Cancer 2003. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Lifetime recreational exercise activity and risk of breast carcinoma in situ
Authors: Patel Alpa V. , Press Michael F. , Meeske Kathleen , Calle Eugenia E. , Bernstein Leslie
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND

The incidence rates of breast carcinoma in situ (BCIS) have increased dramatically over the past two decades, primarily because of increased mammography screening. Ductal carcinoma in situ, which accounts for approximately 85% of BCIS and 10–20% of all breast carcinomas, is generally recognized as the final step in the progression to invasive disease. To the authors' knowledge, few studies have been conducted to date to evaluate BCIS risk factors. Because of its potential effects on circulating sex hormones, physical activity has been proposed as a modifiable risk factor for invasive breast carcinoma. However, the relation to BCIS risk is poorly understood.

METHODS

The authors analyzed data from a population‐based case–control study conducted in Los Angeles County. Personal interviews were conducted with 567 white and black women (age range, 35–64 years) who had been newly diagnosed with BCIS between March 1, 1995 and May 31, 1998 and with 1026 control subjects, of whom 616 were screened within 2 years of identification.

RESULTS

After excluding unscreened control subjects (n = 410) and adjusting for potential confounding factors, the risk of BCIS was approximately 35% lower among women with any exercise activity compared with inactive women, although no significant trend was observed. The association between exercise activity and the risk of BCIS was modified by a family history of breast carcinoma. No reduction in risk was observed among women reporting a first‐degree family history of breast carcinoma (homogeneity of trends P value = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the current study suggest that exercise activity may modify the risk of BCIS, particularly among women without a family history of breast carcinoma. Cancer 2003. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
The silence of the genes: Matching mismatch repair defects with tumors
Authors: Boland C. Richard , Goel Ajay
Published: October 2003

Research over the past 20 years has shown that all cancers are diseases of genes. However, the genetic pathways to tumor development are complex and variable. Much of the work in the past decade has been to identify the pathways of development for tumors in individual organs, and to translate these findings into improved methods for the prevention and treatment of malignancies. In this issue of Cancer, Geisler et al. report the role of epigenetic silencing of the hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes in the genesis of ovarian carcinoma