bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Lubrication on Electrical and Mechanical Parametersof Potentiometer Resistive Element
Authors: Nowak S. , Herod B.
Published: April 2008

Fixed resistors are usually protected against environmental influences. For this aim,
special lacquers are used. Much of the environmental qualities of such a resistor are
directly related to its enclosure.

The resistive element of the potentiometer cannot be protected in the same way. The
producers of quality potentiometers, especially thin film ones, designed an effective
seal of their housing but it leads to an increase in production costs.

The first researches on thin film resistive elements for potentiometers, proved the
major sensitivity of the unit to moisture cycling, because of high water chemisorption
on the resistive element surface.

The chemisorption effect has the major influence on the temperature coefficient of
resistance (TCR), because at a higher temperature, water desorption is occuring and the
resistance of the film is undergoing a change.

However, the IEC Standard recommends dry out of resistive elements before TCR
measurement; the potentiometer users feel that total resistance changes as a sum of
temperature change and drying out change.

The present paper deals with trials to eliminate this disadvantage of thin film
potentiometers by protection against moisture.

The protective coating should, because of its affinity to the resistive film, form
durable protection against environmental influences, but should not increase the
contact resistance of the wiper (CRV). Such a coating also should not increase the
friction coefficient of the wiper.

To verify the hypothesis that polar lubricants can play a part in protective coating of
thin film potentiometers, several different lubricants have been examined.
Modelling Thermal Resistance of Power Modules Having Solder VoidsWith Finite Elements
Authors: Tatara R. A.
Published: April 2008

A general thermal model to calculate the thermal resistance of a power module having rectangular die and
layers has been constructed. The model incorporates a finite element computer program to solve for three‐dimensional
heat conduction. Effects of voids in the solder regions are included. A sample case is analyzed, and
a comparison is made to a recent study.
About the Influence of SiO2 on the Temperature Behaviour ofRuthenate Based Thick Film Resistors
Authors: Storbeck I. , Wolf M.
Published: April 2008

Substituting glass by SiO2 in thick film resistors results in a small increase of R□, a decrease of dR□/dT and an
increase of d2R□/dT2 (at room temperature). From these experimental results it follows that substituting glass
by SiO2 leads to an increase in the resistance of the tunnel barrier, determining the resistivity of the TFRs. The
other microscopic quantities, like charging energy and HTCρ of ruthenate, are estimated using the model of Pike
and Seager, the generalization of Which (necessary in order to take into account the influence of the strain
dependence of R□ and R□ (T) in a correct way) is derived.
The Relationship Between the Electrical Properties of Thick FilmResistors and the Thermal Expansion Coefficient of the Substrates
Authors: Inokuma Toshio , Taketa Yoshiaki , Haradome Miyoshi
Published: April 2008

The temperature characteristics of RuO2‐based thick film resistors on various substratcs having different thermal
expansion coefficient have been investigated.

It became clear that, if the thermal expansion coefficient of the substrate is larger than that of the thick film resistor,
a compression is being exerted by the substrate on the as‐fired resistor at low temperature. As temperature rises, the
resistance value increases, and the TCR becomes positive.

On the contrary, if the thermal expansion coefficient of the resistor is larger than that of the substrate, the as‐fired
resistor is being stretched by the substrate at low temperature. As temperature rises, the resistancc value decreases,
and the TCR becomes negative.
The Effect of Various Factors on the Resistance and TCR of RuO2 Thick Film Resistors—Relation Between the Electrical Properties and Particle Size of Constituents, the Physical Properties of Glass and Firing Temperature
Authors: Abe Osamu , Taketa Yoshiaki , Haradome Miyoshi
Published: April 2008

Thick film resistors were prepared with different variables, they included various
conductive particle sizes, glass particle sizes, glass softening temperatures, thermal
expansion coefficients of the glass, mixing ratios of the conductive element and glass,
firing temperatures, firing cycles, etc. The relation between these factors and electrical
properties of the thick film resistors was studied. As a result, it was found that when
a specific glass is chosen, its R‐TCR curve, which indicates the relation between
resistance and TCR of a thick film resistor, is unconditionally fixed regardless of
various preparation factors, and the R‐TCR curve can be moved only by changing the
thermal expansion coefficient of the glass. In addition, the higher the resistance and
the larger the thermal expansion coefficient of glass, the larger the resistance change
against the external force.
Physical Properties of Sputtered Germanium‐Doped Indium Tin Oxide Films(ITO: Ge) Obtained at Low Deposition Temperature
Authors: Wen S. J. , Campet G. , Manaud J. P.
Published: April 2008

Undoped and Ge‐doped ITO films (ITO: Ge) deposited at low temperature (70℃) have been studied.
Although both samples have the same carrier concentration, a higher carrier mobility occurs for ITO: Ge.
An evaluation of the relative position of the dopant associated energy states has been carried out.
Some Remarks on Quasi‐Solitons in Optical Fibers
Authors: Caffaro M. A. Grado , Caffaro M. Grado
Published: April 2008

In this paper a unique analysis of solitary waves corresponding to the solutions of the non‐linear cubicquintic
Schr6dinger equation for optical fibers is performed. These results imply that for an intensitysquared
dependent refractive index, the behavior of the solitary waves is at most quasi‐soliton. In our
context there is not soliton behavior so that the existence of Raman solitons is not possible. However,
under certain conditions it is reasonable to expect the existence of Raman quasi‐solitons in the anomalous‐
dispersion regime.

The mathematical aspects involved are emphasized because the theoretical research is very important
in the context of non‐linear optics to clarify various, often confusing ideas derived from certain experimental
works.
New Results on Bandwidth of GaAs PIN Photodiodes
Authors: Caffaro M. A. Grado , Caffaro M. Grado
Published: April 2008

In this paper an equivalent circuit of a GaAs PIN photodiode for the millimeter wave range is proposed.
Moreover, an approximate expression for the bandwidth of this circuit is obtained. By using the effective
quality factor concept, an equation that includes the value of a hypothetical resistance involved in the
circuit mentioned above, is derived. In the context of fiber optic communications, this "resistance"
represents the losses due to the fiber‐photodiode coupling.
A New Mathematical Model for Cluster Calculation in TetrahedrallyBonded Amorphous Semiconductors
Authors: Caffaro M. A. Grado , Caffaro M. Grado
Published: April 2008

Tetrahedraily bonded amorphous semiconductors exhibit a structure suitable for applying the so‐called
extended Hückel theory (EHT) to determine the electronic density of states by means of the cluster
calculation. In the following, a new mathematical model based on EHT is established. The results
obtained from this model have sufficient accuracy for applications and provide a useful methodology
that combines adequately with the spectrum computations. Density of valence states has been obtained
experimentally with monochromatized X‐rays and the theoretical results obtained in this paper are in
good agreement with these experiments.
Some New Results on Vibrational Properties of Amorphous Group IVSemiconductors
Authors: Caffaro M. A. Grado , Caffaro M. Grado
Published: April 2008

For neutron scattering, an interesting formula is derived from the coherent one‐phonon dynamic structure
factor. In this derivation, phonon density of states is involved; this density is related to spectra
due to structural disorder, which is investigated. Our considerations refer to amorphous Group IV
semiconductors.
High‐Tc Superconducting YBa2Cu3O7-δ Filmsand YBa2Cu3O7-δ/PrBa2Cu3O7-δ Superlattices Deposited by Laser Ablation
Authors: Levoska J. , Leppävuori S.
Published: April 2008

High Tc superconducting YBa2Cu3O7-d thin films and YBa2Cu37-δ/PrBa2Cu3O7-δ superlattices with various periods and layer thicknesses were deposited by laser ablation on SrTiO3 (100) single crystal substrates
using an XeCl excimer laser (λ = 308 nm). The structure of the films was studied by SEM/EDS and
X‐ray diffraction. The films and superlattices deposited in an in situ process were epitaxial with the c‐axis
perpendicular to the substrate surface and the a‐ and b‐axes parallel with the SrTiO3 [100] or [010]
directions. The electrical properties were studied by measuring the current‐voltage characteristics,
resistivity and critical current. For the in situ deposited YBa2Cu3O7-d films the zero resistivity temperature was 87 to 90 K and the critical current at 77 K was above 2 × 106 A/cm2. For the films deposited at
room temperature and post annealed under in situ deposition conditions, the critical temperature was
the same, but the critical current was 0.5 × 106 A/cm2.
Digitally Programmable Partially Active‐R Sinusoidal Oscillators
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher , Al-Ali Abdulrahman Khalaf , Buhalim Sami Saud , Ahmed Syed Tauseef
Published: April 2008

New, simple sinusoidal oscillator circuits are proposed. Each circuit uses an internally compensated
operational amplifier, a resistor, and a capacitor. The feasibility of obtaining digitally programmable
sinusoidal oscillation is studied and a new digitally programmable capacitorless resistorless sinusoidal
oscillator is developed.
On The Realization of Current‐Mode Integrator Using Current Conveyors
Authors: Abuelma′Atti Muhammad Taher
Published: April 2008

An improved analysis of a recently proposed current‐mode integrator [1] is presented. The analysis
includes the parasitic serial resistance on port X of the current conveyor. The feasibility of obtaining
an error cancellation is considered.
Novel Current‐Mode Quotient Circuit
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher
Published: April 2008

A novel current‐mode quotient circuit is presented. The circuit uses available devices. Effects of non‐ideal
active‐elements are considered.
Some Comments on London Theory for Superconductors
Authors: Caffaro M. A. Grado , Caffaro M. Grado
Published: April 2008

The basic formulae of London theory for superconductors are reviewed. Moreover, an expression for the spatial charge density in a type‐II superconductor is obtained; this equation is associated with
sinusoidal oscillations. Considerations on both penetration depth and coherence length are exposed.
Photoluminescence Spectra of MESFET and HEMT
Authors: Conti P.
Published: April 2008

Photoluminescence spectroscopy has been employed in previous studies of semiconductor quantum
wells and of buried interfaces in heterostructures. Nevertheless, the low amplitude of the signals collected,
and the experimental difficulties, have limited the analyses to samples made on purpose.

On the contrary, in this work, the analyses at room temperature and at 4 K of a commercial MESFET
and of a commercial HEMT are presented. With the performed experiments, new informations about
the composition of these components were achieved; in particular signals from deep levels and from
the Cr states of the HEMT substrate were detected.

After further studies on the shape of the spectra, the photoluminescence could probably be employed
in reliability assessments to show the modifications in the semiconductor layer composition and in the
shape of the heterostructure′s surfaces of single devices.
Grounded Capacitor Oscillators Using A Single Operational Transconductance Amplifier
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher , Khan Muhammad Haroon
Published: April 2008

New oscillator circuits using operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) are presented. Each circuit uses a single OTA and grounded capacitors. The feasibility of obtaining oscillators with independent control of frequency and oscillation is considered. Also, the feasibility of exploiting, to advantage, the frequency dependence of the OTA‐transconductance is considered. This may result in OTA‐based RC oscillators using only one externally‐connected capacitor.
Open‐Circuit End Effect of Microstrip Line Configuration in Plasma Medium
Authors: Mital Prem Bhushan
Published: April 2008

The extension in length for open microstrip configuration in plasma media is determined using spectral domain technique under quasi static approach [1, 2]. The results were verified by modifying Hammerstad equation for plasma media. Good agreement is found between the two results.
New Current‐Mode Notch and Allpass Filters with Single Current Difference Amplifier
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher
Published: April 2008

A new configuration for realization of current‐mode notch and allpass filters is presented. It can synthesize second‐order notch and allpass filters using a single current difference (Norton) amplifier and at most eight passive RC one port elements. Experimental results obtained from a notch filter realization are presented.
Parametric Amplification/Mixing Using the Varactor Diode
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher
Published: April 2008

This paper deals with the large‐signal analysis of parametric amplification/mixing using reverse biased p‐n junction varactor diodes. Expressions are obtained for the current components of the parametric amplification/mixing. The special case of relatively small input amplitudes is considered and the results are compared with previously published results.
Analysis of the Density of Electron‐Hole Pairs for Minimal Pump Energy in a Laser Diode with Coherent Feedback
Authors: Grado-Caffaro M. A. , Grado-Caffaro M.
Published: April 2008

The average value in the time domain of the density of electron‐hole pairs in a
semiconductor laser with coherent feedback is calculated under conditions of minimal
pump energy. This value is found to be finite; the significance of this result is discussed as
well as the asymptotic value of the above carrier density.
A Study on the Transversal Optical Mode in Amorphous Gallium Arsenide
Authors: Grado-Caffaro M. A. , Grado-Caffaro M.
Published: April 2008

Contributions to the far‐infrared spectrum corresponding to both dynamical and
structural disorders in a‐GaAs are examined when frequency coincides with the
transversal optical mode. Under these circumstances, dipole moment matrix element is
discussed.
A Simplified Spice Model for IGBT
Authors: Haddi A. , Maouad A. , Elmazria O. , Hoffmann A. , Charles J. P.
Published: April 2008

A simplified IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) SPICE macromodel, based on its
equivalent circuit, is proposed. This macromodel is provided to simulate various
mechanisms governing the behavior of the IGBT, and it takes into account specific
phenomena limiting its SOA (Safe Operating Area), such as forward and reverse biased
SOA, as well as latch‐up. The validity of this model is confirmed by comparison between
simulation and experimental results as well as the data sheets. This comparison is tested
for two IGBT devices showing two different powers and switching speeds, and a good
agreement is recorded for both IGBT devices.
Behaviour of Thin Film TiO2 Overlaid λ/2 Microstrip Rejection Filter Due to Ageing of the Overlay
Authors: Rane S. B. , Puri Vijaya
Published: April 2008

The long term behaviour of TiO2 thin film overlaid λ/2 L‐section rejection filter due to
the ageing of the overlay is reported in this paper. The observations are over a period of
upto 600 days with exposure to moisture in between. Due to overlay, existence of double
resonance peaks and shifts in resonance due to the various ageing process is observed.
The circuit after 600 days show a considerable shift in the resonance frequency to higher
frequency side and increase in Q. The long term ageing aspects of the dielectric layers
used for protection, passivation and improvement of circuit properties should be taken
into consideration during design and fabrication.
A Programmable Phase Shifter for Sinusoidal Signals
Authors: Abuelma′atti Muhammad Taher , Baroudi Uthman
Published: April 2008

A simple current(voltage)‐controlled phase shifter is presented. The circuit uses a small
number of active and passive Components. The feasibility of obtaining a temperature‐insensitive
phase shifter is explored. Experimental and simulation results are included.
Stromal-mediated protection of tyrosine kinase inhibitor-treated BCR-ABL-expressing leukemia cells
Authors: Weisberg Ellen , Wright Renee D. , McMillin Douglas W. , Mitsiades Constantine , Ray Arghya , Barrett Rosemary , Adamia Sophia , Stone Richard , Galinsky Ilene , Kung Andrew L. , Griffin James D.
Published: April 2008

Clinical studies of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia revealed that a common pattern of response is a dramatic fall in the circulating population of blast cells, with a minimal or delayed decrease in marrow blasts, suggesting a protective environment. These observations suggest that a greater understanding of the interaction of stromal cells with leukemic cells is essential. Here, we present an in vivo system for monitoring relative tumor accumulation in leukemic mice and residual disease in leukemic mice treated with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and an in vitro system for identifying integral factors involved in stromal-mediated cytoprotection. Using the in vivo model, we observed high tumor burden/residual disease in tissues characterized as significant sources of hematopoiesis-promoting stroma, with bone marrow stroma most frequently showing the highest accumulation of leukemia in untreated and nilotinib-treated mice as well as partial protection of leukemic cells from the inhibitory effects of nilotinib. These studies, which showed a pattern of leukemia distribution consistent with what is observed in imatinib- and nilotinib-treated chronic myeloid leukemia patients, were followed by a more in-depth analysis of stroma-leukemia cell interactions that lead to protection of leukemia cells from nilotinib-induced cytotoxicity. For the latter, we used the human BCR-ABL-positive cell line, KU812F, and the human bone marrow stroma cell line, HS-5, to more closely approximate the bone marrow–associated cytoprotection observed in drug-treated leukemia patients. This in vitro system helped to elucidate stromal-secreted viability factors that may play a role in stromal-mediated cytoprotection of tyrosine kinase inhibitor-treated leukemia cells. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(5):1121–9]
Canine cytogenetics – from band to basepair
Authors: Breen M.
Published: April 2008

Humans and dogs have coexisted for thousands of years, during which time we have developed a unique bond, centered on companionship. Along the way, we have developed purebred dog breeds in a manner that has resulted unfortunately in many of them being affected by serious genetic disorders, including cancers. With serendipity and irony the unique genetic architecture of the 21st century genome of Man’s best friend may ultimately provide many of the keys to unlock some of nature’s most intriguing biological puzzles. Canine cytogenetics has advanced significantly over the past 10 years, spurred on largely by the surge of interest in the dog as a biomedical model for genetic disease and the availability of advanced genomics resources. As such the role of canine cytogenetics has moved rapidly from one that served initially to define the gross genomic organization of the canine genome and provide a reliable means to determine the chromosomal location of individual genes, to one that enabled the assembled sequence of the canine genome to be anchored to the karyotype. Canine cytogenetics now presents the biomedical research community with a means to assist in our search for a greater understanding of how genome architectures altered during speciation and in our search for genes associated with cancers that affect both dogs and humans. The cytogenetics ‘toolbox’ for the dog is now loaded. This review aims to provide a summary of some of the recent advancements in canine cytogenetics.
Psoriasis and Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Coincidence or Associated Diseases?
Authors: Eliakim-Raz Noa , Shuvy Mony , Lotan Chaim , Planer David
Published: April 2008

Psoriasis is a common immune-mediated disease which affects 1–3% of the population. The etiology of psoriasis is unknown. Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy is probably the end result of a variety of toxic, metabolic or infectious agents. During a computerized search for cardiomyopathy among all patients hospitalized with psoriasis in the Hadassah University Hospital since 1980 we found an increased prevalence of cardiomyopathy, and specifically dilated cardiomyopathy. We present 4 patients who suffer from both conditions. In accordance with previous data, an association between preexisting psoriasis and dilated cardiomyopathy is suggested. We suggest that the genetic risk factors of dilated cardiomyopathy are shared by psoriasis, and more specifically psoriatic arthritis. Alternatively, the immune reaction that is triggered in dilated cardiomyopathy leading to the progression of the disease might be enhanced in patients with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Chronic inflammation and persistent secretion of proinflammatory cytokines may be considered a potential pathway, triggering the initiation and progression of dilated cardiomyopathy in psoriatic patients. Further investigation of the genetic and immune risk factors involved in dilated cardiomyopathy and in psoriasis may lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy.
Two Autocrine Pathways to Regulate Cyclic GMP Synthesis in Cultured Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Diederen Roselie M.H. , La Heij Ellen C. , Markerink-van Ittersum Marianne , Hendrikse Fred , de Vente Jan
Published: April 2008

Aim: To investigate the role of two separate enzymatic pathways [soluble (sGC) vs. particulate (pGC) guanylyl cyclase] in the synthesis of cyclic GMP (cGMP) in cultured human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Methods: cGMP accumulation was evaluated by quantitative analysis of cGMP immunoreactivity. RPE cells were also stained for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), ANP and β1- and α2-subunits of sGC. Results: We showed nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) diaphorase activity and iNOS immunoreactivity in RPE cells. Incubation of the cells in the presence of 1 mM IBMX to inhibit phosphodiesterase activity, and the simultaneous inhibition of NOS activity with L-NAME suggested the involvement of sGC in maintaining a low level of cGMP in the RPE cells. The involvement of sGC was further supported by detection of the β1- and α2-subunits of sGC. Incubation of the cells in the presence of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) to stimulate pGC strongly increased cGMP immunoreactivity. We also demonstrated the presence of ANP in all RPE cells. Conclusion: Cultured human RPE cells are capable of producing cGMP after stimulation of sGC or pGC. The presence of iNOS and ANP in all cells suggests two different autocrine pathways of stimulating cGMP production in these cells. The possible role of cGMP in the regulation iNOS gene expression and in the regulation of ANP is discussed.
Utility of a Biopsy in Suspicious Pigmented Iris Tumors
Authors: Schalenbourg Ann , Uffer Sylvie , Zografos Leonidas
Published: April 2008

Background: In the presence of pigmented iris lesions evocative of malignant melanoma and implying oncological treatment, a foregoing biopsy to exclude a benign lesion may seem a reasonable approach. After examining patient files, the utility of such a diagnostic approach was explored. Material and Methods: Retrospective, consecutive histopathologic case series of 10 pigmented iris tumor specimens excised since 1993. Histopathologic diagnosis was compared with final diagnosis and outcome in the patient’s medical chart. Results: Five biopsies had only nevus cells, whereas ulterior clinical data or histopathologic examinations were compatible with the diagnosis of malignant melanoma. One biopsy contained insufficient sample tissue. Four biopsies confirmed clinical suspicion of iris melanoma. Conclusion: In the current case series, 6 out of 10 biopsies provided a falsely reassuring negative or an inconclusive result. Modern management techniques such as ultrasound biomicroscopy and proton therapy of the whole anterior segment have equally diminished indications for a biopsy. In cases clinically evocative of iris melanoma, a biopsy has only a relative value.
Serum Levels of the Advanced Glycation End Products Nε-Carboxymethyllysine and Pentosidine Are Not Influenced by Treatment with the Angiotensin Receptor II Type 1 Blocker Irbesartan in Patients with Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy and Hypertension
Authors: Busch Martin , Franke Sybille , Wolf Gunter , Rohde Richard D. , Stein Günter
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: The aim of this post-hoc analysis of a prospective study in patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy was to investigate whether treatment with the angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker irbesartan leads to a reduction in the serum levels of the advanced glycation end products (AGEs) pentosidine and NΕ-carboxymethyllysine (CML). Methods: One hundred and ninety-six patients of the Irbesartan in Diabetic Nephropathy Trial cohort (mean age 61 ± 6.5 years, 62 female, 134 male) with a mean estimated glomerular filtration rate of 47.7 ml/min were treated with irbesartan (n = 65), the calcium channel blocker amlodipine (n = 61) or by placebo (n = 70). Serum levels of pentosidine and CML were measured at baseline and after follow-up (23.4 months). Results: Estimated glomerular filtration rate decreased in all groups by a mean of 8.6 ml/min. Serum levels of AGEs increased significantly (p < 0.001) during follow-up. After controlling for renal function and total protein concentration, changes were 53, 55, 50% for pentosidine and 29, 24, 23% for CML (irbesartan, amlodipine and placebo group, respectively). The increase was not significantly different between the treatment groups. Conclusion: Irbesartan did not alter the increase in pentosidine and CML in serum of type 2 diabetic patients with progressive nephropathy. This finding suggests that angiotensin receptor blockade alone is insufficient to reduce serum levels of AGEs in diabetic nephropathy.
The Role of Nuclear Factor Kappa B in Lens Epithelial Cell Proliferation Using a Capsular Bag Model
Authors: Lee Seok-Jong , Bae Sangwoo , Seomun Young , Son Min-Jung , Joo Choun-Ki
Published: April 2008

Purpose: This study was performed to elucidate the role of nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) in lens epithelial cell proliferation in the capsular bag model for this study. Methods: Capsular bags were prepared from porcine eyes and cultured in a 5% CO2 atmosphere at 37°C. NF-ĸB translocation was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. The effects of sulfasalazine and SN50 peptide, inhibitors of NF-ĸB activation, were observed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Results: NF-ĸB was found in the cytoplasm of nonproliferated lens epithelial cells. However, NF-ĸB moved to the nucleus in proliferation cells, proliferating-cell-nuclear-antigen-positive cells. This translocation was inhibited by treatment with sulfasalazine or NF-ĸB SN50 peptide. These inhibitors also blocked lens epithelial cell migration from the equatorial to the posterior capsule. Conclusion: NF-ĸB controls proliferation and regulates the growth of lens epithelial cells. In this study, sulfasalazine and NF-ĸB SN50 peptide inhibited cell proliferation in the capsular bag model. These results suggest that the regulation of NF-ĸB in lens epithelial cells may modulate posterior capsule opacification.
Dose-Dependent New Bone Formation by Extracorporeal Shock Wave Application on the Intact Femur of Rabbits
Authors: Tischer T. , Milz S. , Weiler C. , Pautke C. , Hausdorf J. , Schmitz C. , Maier M.
Published: April 2008

Background: Whereas various molecular working mechanisms of shock waves have been demonstrated, no study has assessed in detail the influence of varying energy flux densities (EFD) on new bone formation in vivo. Methods: Thirty Chinchilla bastard rabbits were randomly assigned to 5 groups (EFD 0.0, 0.35, 0.5, 0.9 and 1.2 mJ/mm2) and treated with extracorporeal shock waves at the distal femoral region (1,500 pulses; 1 Hz frequency). To investigate new bone formation, animals were injected with oxytetracycline at days 5–9 after shock wave application and sacrificed on day 10. Histological sections of all animals were examined using broad-band epifluorescent illumination, contact microradiography and Giemsa-Eosin staining. Results: Application of shock waves induced new bone formation beginning with 0.5 mJ/mm2 EFD and increasing with 0.9 mJ/mm2 and 1.2 mJ/mm2. The latter EFD resulted in new bone formation also on the dorsal cortical bone; cortical fractures and periosteal detachment also occurred. Conclusion: Here, for the first time, a threshold level is presented for new bone formation after applying shock waves to intact bone in vivo. The findings of this study are of considerable significance for preventing unwanted side effects in new approaches in the clinical application of shock waves.
Ischemic Stroke and Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The Latest Evidence on Mortality, Readmissions and Hospital Costs from Scotland
Authors: Christensen Michael C. , Munro Vicki
Published: April 2008

Background and Purpose: Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the UK, yet little information exists on current treatment patterns, outcomes and costs. This study assessed survival, readmissions and total hospital costs over 12 months in patients with first-ever intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) or ischemic stroke (IS) in Scotland. Methods: Hospital-based retrospective inception cohort design using data from the Hospital Record Linkage System in the National Health Service in Scotland. Survival, readmissions and total hospital costs were evaluated in all patients admitted to hospital for ICH or IS from April 1, 2004, to March 31, 2005. Results: A total of 1,016 patients with ICH and 4,295 with IS were identified. The average age was 67.6 years (SD 14.5) for ICH and 70.4 years (SD 12.7) for IS at stroke onset. In-hospital mortality was 45.2% (95% confidence interval, CI, 41.0–49.3) for ICH and 15.6% (95% CI, 14.4–16.7) for IS, while 52.5% (95% CI, 48.0–56.9) and 27.2% (95% CI, 25.7–28.8), respectively, were dead at 1 year after stroke onset. The cumulative 1-year risk of rehospitalization for stroke and severe cardiac events was 15.0 and 1.0% in the ICH cohort, respectively, and 10.8 and 1.5% in the IS cohort. The average length of initial hospital stay was 38.4 days for ICH and 39.3 days for IS. The average total hospital costs over 12 months were GBP 13,960 (SD 21,487) for ICH and GBP 14,051 (SD 17,850) for IS. Conclusion: Individuals experiencing an ICH continue to exhibit a much worse prognosis than IS, and both forms of stroke continue to imply significant hospital costs to the National Health Service in Scotland.
Pragmatic Language and Theory of Mind Deficits in People with Schizophrenia and Their Relatives
Authors: Mazza Monica , Di Michele Vittorio , Pollice Rocco , Casacchia Massimo , Roncone Rita
Published: April 2008

Background: Deficits in theory of mind have frequently been observed in people affected by illnesses characterized by disrupted social behaviour like autism and psychoses. In schizophrenia, a pragmatic deficit in expressive language can also be observed. The present study was designed in order to assess the suitability of theory of mind and pragmatic conversation abilities as possible cognitive endophenotypes of schizophrenia. Methods: First- and second-order false belief tasks and pragmatic deficits in expressive language were examined in 38 patients with schizophrenia, in 34 non-psychotic relatives and in 44 healthy controls. An extensive clinical and neuropsychological assessment was also conducted. Results: Schizophrenic people and their first-degree relatives performedworse than the normal control subjects in false belief and pragmatic conversation tasks. General cognitive ability and neuropsychological measures of executive functions were not related to social cognition tasks. Conclusions: Theory of mind disorders and failing to understand the gricean conversational maxims are associated with schizophrenia liability.
Differential mRNA Expression of Antimicrobial Peptides and Proteins in Atopic Dermatitis as Compared to Psoriasis Vulgaris and Healthy Skin
Authors: Gambichler Thilo , Skrygan Marina , Tomi Nordwig S. , Othlinghaus Nick , Brockmeyer Norbert H. , Altmeyer Peter , Kreuter Alexander
Published: April 2008

Background: Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) are prone to have skin infections. We aimed to investigate mRNA expression levels of various antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) in AD patients, and compare it with psoriasis vulgaris (PV) patients and healthy subjects. Methods: Skin biopsies were obtained from healthy subjects and patients with AD and PV. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR was used to determine the mRNA levels of human β-defensin (hBD)-1, hBD-2, hBD-3, LL-37, psoriasin, RNase 7, interferon-γ, and interleukin-10 (IL-10). Results: Except for LL-37, mRNA of hBDs, psoriasin, and RNase 7 was significantly higher expressed in AD (n = 42) and/or PV (n = 35) patients when compared to controls (n = 18). While PV lesions showed significantly higher mRNA hBD-2 levels than lesions of AD, the latter was associated with significantly higher mRNA levels of RNase 7 when compared to PV. A significant positive correlation of hBD expression was observed both in AD patients and PV patients. hBD mRNA levels of AD skin correlated with psoriasin and RNase 7 levels. hBD-1 mRNA expression correlated with AD activity and IL-10 mRNA expression. Conclusions: Most AMPs investigated in this study proved to be overexpressed in AD as well as PV when compared to controls. However, a statistically significant difference in AMP mRNA expression between AD and PV was only found for hBD-2 and RNase 7. A moderate-to-strong linear relationship between the mRNA expression of particular AMPs appears to exist in AD, and to a lesser extent in PV as well.
Immunostimulatory Sequence CpG Elicits Th1-Type Immune Responses in Inflammatory Skin Lesions in an Atopic Dermatitis Murine Model
Authors: Wang Guoying , Fyhrquist-Vanni Nanna , Wolff Henrik , Dieu-Nosjean Marie-Caroline , Kemeny Lajos , Homey Bernard , Lauerma Antti I. , Alenius Harri
Published: April 2008

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, for which no fundamental therapy exists. Immunostimulatory sequence CpG (ISS CpG) has potential in reducing susceptibility to allergic diseases and reversing established allergic reactions. Objective: To investigate the effects of ISS CpG in the prevention and treatment of AD in an AD murine model. Methods: BALB/c mice were epicutaneously exposed to ovalbumin (OVA) for 3 or 4 weeks with a 2-week resting period between each exposure week. ISS i.d. injection was given either on the 1st day of each exposure week (in the prevention experiment) or 3 days before and on the 1st, 4th and 7th day of the last exposure week (in the treatment experiment). Skin biopsy and blood were obtained at the end of the experiments. Results: ISS CpG treatment increased drastically mRNA expression of proinflammatory and Th1-type cytokines and chemokines in OVA-treated skin both in the prevention and treatment experiments. The suppressing effect of ISS CpG on Th2-type cytokines and chemokines was weak and limited to IL-13 and CCL24 in the treatment experiment. No significant reduction in OVA-elicited infiltration of eosinophils and T cells in the skin was seen after ISS administration but infiltration of plasmacytoid dendritic cells was absent in ISS CpG-treated skin. In contrast, ISS injection elicited dramatic infiltration of F4/80+ and CCR5+ cells into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Conclusion: Due to unwanted side effects and minor beneficial effects in our model, administration of ISS CpG may not be suitable for the treatment of AD in humans.
Genetic Suppression of GH-IGF-1 Activity, Combined with Lifelong Caloric Restriction, Prevents Age-Related Renal Damage and Prolongs the Life Span in Rats
Authors: Zha Yan , Taguchi Takashi , Nazneen Arifa , Shimokawa Isao , Higami Yoshikazu , Razzaque M. Shawkat
Published: April 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of kidney pathology on overall survival and longevity and the combined effects of chronic suppression of growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) activity and lifelong caloric restriction on age-associated nephropathy. Methods: We analyzed the kidneys of rats with suppressed GH activity through genetic manipulation with an antisense GH transgene. Rats were fed normally or with a 30% calorie-restricted diet for 24–26 months. The kidneys of male wild-type young (6 months) and old (24–26 months) rats were compared with male hemizygote transgenic young (6 months) and old (24–26 months) rats fed with either regular diet or 30% calorie-restricted diet for their entire life span. Results: The transgenic rats had relatively less pituitary GH-secreting cells, and the plasma levels of IGF-1 were decreased by 53% in homozygote rats (tg/tg) and by 28% in hemizygote rats (tg/wt) compared to wild-type rats (wt/wt) of the same age (6 months). Wild-type rats fed the regular diet developed age-associated nephropathy as they aged, showing severe inflammatory cell infiltration, glomerulosclerosis, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. In addition, about 83% of the wild-type rats allowed to survive naturally showed signs of nephropathy. In contrast, only 26% of the naturally surviving hemizygote rats showed features of nephropathy, despite the fact that these rats lived 8% longer (maximum survival 171 weeks) than the wild-type rats (maximum survival 158 weeks). When chronic suppression of GH/IGF-1 activity was combined with lifelong caloric restriction, however, age- associated nephropathy was nonexistent in hemizygote transgenic rats, and they showed about 30% increase in survival (maximum survival 204 weeks). There was no significant difference in the rate of neoplastic or nonneoplastic lesions (other than in the kidney) in the regularly fed wild-type rats or in the calorie-restricted hemizygote transgenic rats that survived longer. Conclusion: We concluded that kidney pathology is an important determinant of overall survival, and that prevention of kidney pathology by dietary restriction, combined with chronic suppression of GH/IGF-1 activity, significantly extends overall survival and longevity.
Dose and Time Effects of Estrogen on Expression of Neuron-Specific Protein and Cyclic AMP Response Element-Binding Protein and Brain Region Volume in the Medial Amygdala of Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Fan Lu , Hanbury Rose , Pandey Subhash C. , Cohen Rochelle S.
Published: April 2008

Although estrogen has been shown to be neuroprotective, studies concerning its effect on some behaviors are contradictory, reporting both ameliorative and detrimental effects. A factor involved in hormone efficacy is the estrogen regimen. We reported an effect of 10 µg estrogen for 14 days on the cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) pathway, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, in rat medial amygdala (MeA). To determine the effects of estrogen on neuronal numbers and brain region volume in MeA and central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), we used stereology to test the effect of various estrogen regimens on the number of neuron-specific protein (NeuN)-labeled neurons and brain region volume of MeA and CeA. Ovariectomized rats were injected with vehicle for 14 days, 2.5 µg estradiol benzoate (E2) for 4 or 14 days, or 10 µg estrogen for 14 days. Because NeuN-labeled neuronal number may be related to neuronal survival and upregulation of CREB signaling, we tested the effect of these regimens on levels of phosphorylated CREB (pCREB) labeling in the MeA and CeA. The 2.5 µg estrogen for 14 days regimen increased the mean number of NeuN-labeled neurons and pCREB-labeled cells in the MeA compared to vehicle or 2.5 µg for 4 days. There was an increase in volume of the MeA with 2.5 µg estrogen for 14 days compared to vehicle or 2.5 µg for 4 days. No differences in these parameters were seen in CeA. These data indicate a neuroanatomical heterogeneity of a time effect of estrogen on cells expressing NeuN and pCREB in the MeA versus CeA.
Supplementation with 200 mg/Day Docosahexaenoic Acid from Mid-Pregnancy through Lactation Improves the Docosahexaenoic Acid Status of Mothers with a Habitually Low Fish Intake and of Their Infants
Authors: Bergmann Renate L. , Haschke-Becher Elisabeth , Klassen-Wigger Petra , Bergmann Karl E. , Richter Rolf , Dudenhausen Joachim W. , Grathwohl Dominik , Haschke Ferdinand
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: The supply of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6ω–3), important for fetal/infant neurodevelopment, depends on the maternal fatty acid (FA) status, which may be marginal in central Europe. Therefore, we investigated the effect of a daily vitamin/mineral supplement with and without 200 mg DHA from mid-pregnancy through lactation on the DHA concentrations in maternal and infant red blood cell phospholipids (RBC%), and in breast milk FA (%). Methods: At 21 weeks’ gestation, 144 women were enrolled into a randomised, double-blind clinical trial receiving daily: (1) a basic vitamin-mineral supplement (Vit/Min group), (2) Vit/Min plus 4.5 g fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS group), or (3) Vit/Min plus 4.5 g FOS plus 200 mg fish oil-derived DHA (DHA-FOS group). FAs were determined by capillary gas-liquid chromatography. Results: While maternal RBC-DHA% at enrolment was not different, at 37 weeks gestation, and 3 months after delivery RBC-DHA% were significantly higher in the DHA-FOS group. The breast milk DHA% was twice as high in the DHA-FOS group (0.50%) than in the two others (0.25 %) (p < 0.001), and the ratio ARA/DHA in the DHA-FOS group was 1.0 ± 0.43, in the others 2.1 ± 0.43 (p < 0.001). The RBC-DHA% of the infants in the DHA-FOS group was also significantly higher, and correlated significantly with maternal RBC-DHA% before and 3 months after delivery. Conclusions: In central Europe, a dose of 200 mg/day DHA from mid-pregnancy through lactation seems appropriate to improve the DHA status of mothers and infants.
Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in an XO Individual
Authors: Gartler S.M. , Vullo C. , Gandini E.
Published: April 2008

A family segregating for G6PD deficiency is reported in which one member has an XO chromosomal constitution. The association of G6PD deficiency and Turner’s syndrome in the same individual adds further evidence to presumed sex linkage of the G6PD gene. The segregation of the G6PD gene in this family indicates that the X chromosome of the propositus was maternal in origin.
A Male with XXXXY Sex Chromosomes
Authors: Fraccaro M. , Klinger H.P. , Schutt W.
Published: April 2008

Cultured skin and blood cells of a 12 year old boy displayed 49 chromosomes and an XXXXY sex chromosome constitution. A large proportion of buccal mucosa nuclei had three Barr bodies. There was a shift to the left in the degree of lobulation of the polymorph nuclei and only 6 drumsticks were found in 3021 neutrophils. The patient’s parents and brother had apparently normal chromosome complements. Major clinical symptoms were mental deficiency, undescended testes and radio-ulnar synostosis. Since some of the other XXXXY cases reported displayed similar clinical signs it is possible that this chromosomal constitution leads to a characteristic syndrome.
Sex Appendages, Arneth Formula, and the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Caratzali A.
Published: April 2008

Fluctuations in the frequency of sex appendages in the polymorpho-nuclear neutrophil leucocytes were studied in 10 women at different phases of the menstrual cycle. These fluctuations, which are statistically significant, seem to show that the proportion of sex appendages depends on hormonal factors acting during the menstrual cycle.
Multiple Anomalies Associated with an Extra Small Autosome
Authors: Frøland A. , Holst Grethe , Terslev E.
Published: April 2008

A boy now aged two years has a number of congenital defects, including mental deficiency, cerebral atrophy, spastic tetraplegia, low-set, malformed ears, dental abnormalities and malformations of the extremities. Chromosome studies have revealed a modal number of 47, the extra chromosome being a very small metacentric chromosome. The karyotypes of the parents and of a brother showed nothing abnormal.
Deletion of the Short Arm of Chromosome 18
Authors: Summitt R.L.
Published: April 2008

A 4 10/12 year old girl with mental defect and multiple minor congenital anomalies was found to have a deletion of the short arm of chromosome 18. Limited investigation for loss of an allele did not reveal such a loss. Comparison of the phenotype of this patient with that of other patients with apparently identical cytogenetic abnormalities suggests a wide spectrum of variability in phenotype. Evidence suggests that the abnormal chromosome might not be a true telocentric chromosome.
Hematologic and Cytogenetic Evidence for Hematopoietic Chimerism in the Marmoset, Tamarinus nigricollis
Authors: Gengozian N. , Batson J.S. , Eide P.
Published: April 2008

Peripheral blood smears of 20 male and 20 female tamarins were examined for the presence of the nuclear drumstick appendage in neutrophils. This chromatin body characteristic of female cells was found in significant numbers of neutrophils from males and in some females was found to be absent or in a lower frequency than expected. The distribution of drumstick-bearing neutrophils among these animals was such that they suggested male-female blood chimerism resulting from prenatal vascular placental anastomoses between fraternal twins of this species. Heterosexual chimerism was confirmed by sex-chromosome analyses of tissues from both male and female animals. The drumstick marker, however, did not provide a reliable quantitative index of chimerism as determined by sex-chromosome analysis. Chimerism was found in blood, bone-marrow, lymph-node, and splenic tissue indicating intermixing of the hematopoietic systems of fraternal twins. A new micromethod utilizing an in vivo diffusion chamber for the procurement of mitotic cells for chromosome spreads was described.
Two Leukemic Peripheral Blood Stemlines During Acute Transformation of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia in a D/D Translocation Carrier
Authors: Engel E. , McGee Barbara J. , Hartmann R.C. , Engel-de Montmollin Mireille
Published: April 2008

Two characteristic malignant cell lines were consistently found in each of two different studies performed at a three month interval in a 53-year-old white female with acute blastic transformation of chronic myelogenous leukemia. One stemline included the Philadelphia (Ph1) chromosome; the other, probably derived from the former, showed in addition replacement of an E17 member by an abnormal chromosome. This marker (M) had symmetrical limbs, each the length of the long arm of the single E17 identified in these cells. Both leukemic stemlines also carried a D/D translocation similarly present in cells derived from skin cultures. A tentative interpretation was the following: D/D translocation = congenital; D/D translocation + marker Ph1 = chronic myelogenous leukemia; D/D translocation + Ph1 + marker M replacing one E17 (? isochromosome for long arm of E17) = acute transformation of the chronic myelogenous leukemia, the final step being regarded as speculative.