bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haemodynamic responses to a ring‐deleted analogue of atrial natriuretic peptide in rats with cirrhosis
Authors: Moreau Richard , Tazi Khalid A. , Komeichi Hirokazu , Pussard Eric , Lebrec Didier
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Aims: In cirrhosis, the effects of selective activation of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) R2‐receptors on haemodynamics, endogenous ANP (ANP1–28) and sodium excretion are unknown. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of selective activation of ANP‐R2 receptors by ANP4–23 (a ring‐deleted analogue of endogenous ANP) on haemodynamics, plasma ANP1–28 concentrations and urinary sodium excretion in conscious cirrhotic and normal rats. Methods: Haemodynamics and sodium excretion were measured prior to and following administration of ANP4–23. Plasma ANP1–28 concentrations were also measured. Results: In cirrhotic rats, ANP4–23 significantly decreased portal pressure and tributary blood flow by 15% and 25% respectively but significantly increased portal territory vascular resistance by 30%. Systemic and renal haemodynamics were not altered by ANP4–23. In normal rats, ANP4–23 did not significantly change splanchnic, renal and systemic haemodynamics. In both groups of rats, ANP4–23 increased plasma ANP1–28 concentrations but did not change sodium excretion. Conclusions: ANP4–23 administration induced splanchnic vasoconstriction in cirrhotic but not in normal rats. ANP4–23‐elicited vasoconstriction caused a portal hypotensive effect in cirrhotic rats. Finally, in both groups, ANP4–23 caused an increase in plasma ANP1–28 concentrations but did not increase sodium excretion.
Red blood cells attenuate sinusoidal endothelial cell injury by scavenging xanthine oxidase‐dependent hydrogen peroxide in hyperoxic perfused rat liver
Authors: Motoyama Satoru , Saito Satoshi , Inaba Hideo , Kitamura Michihiko , Minamiya Yoshihiro , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Saito Reijiro , Kamata Shuichi , Nakae Hajime , Ogawa Jun‐ichi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Aims/Background: Rat liver perfused with an oxygenated buffered solution alone results in degenerative changes even when the perfusion flow is accelerated to give a sufficient oxygen supply. On the other hand, perfusion media supplemented with red blood cells (RBCs) preserve the viability of the liver. The present study was conducted to clarify how RBCs protect the isolated perfused liver. Methods: The liver was perfused with and without RBCs in a perfusate equilibrated with supra‐physiological oxygen tension at regulated inflow pressures, and controlled hepatic oxygen consumption. We examined alanine aminotransferase and purine nucleoside phosphorylase activity in the perfusate as specific markers of liver cells injury. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and morphological changes were determined using cerium electron microscopy. Apoptosis was detected by measuring CPP 32 protease activity and using TdT‐mediated dUTP‐digoxigenin nick end‐labeling. Results: When the liver was perfused with RBC‐free buffer, H2O2 production and consequent injury progressing to apoptosis were initiated in the sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs). After SECs were injured, H2O2 appeared in the hepatocytes. H2O2 production and associated degenerative changes were attenuated both morphologically and enzymatically by the addition of RBCs, a specific xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitor and the H2O2 radical scavenger, catalase. Conclusions: In the liver perfused with RBC‐free buffer, H2O2 production and consequent injury were initiated in SECs. RBCs attenuate liver injury by scavenging XOD‐dependent H2O2.
GB virus‐C/hepatitis G virus infection in a hepatitis C virus endemic village: prevalence in residents with low educational attainment and frequent recovery in females
Authors: Cheng Pin‐Nan , Chang Ting‐Tsung , Yang Mei‐Hui , Hu Shu‐Chen , Young Kung‐Chia , Wu Hua‐Lin , Jen Chung‐Min , Ko Ai‐Wen , Lu Shih‐Chien
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Aims/Background: GB virus‐C/hepatitis G virus (HGV) is a newly identified flavivirus, which may share the same mode of transmission as hepatitis C virus (HCV). The aim of this study was to investigate associated factors of HGV infection and clearance in a HCV endemic village in southern Taiwan. Methods: Five hundred and ninety‐four residents of a village in southern Taiwan were enrolled for hepatitis virus screening. Clinical features were recorded and a questionnaire addressing the possible routes of transmission was filled in by the participating residents. Results: The prevalence of antibody to hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B surface antigen in the 594 residents was 70.7% and 19.5% respectively. Of the 399 residents tested for HGV RNA, GB virus‐C/Hepatitis G virus envelop 2 protein (HGV‐E2) antibody, and HCV RNA, the prevalence was 13.5%, 25.3%, 53.1% respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low educational attainment was associated with HGV infection, old age and low educational attainment were associated with HCV infection, and female gender was associated with HGV clearance. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values were significantly higher for residents with HCV infection alone, HBV infection alone, and co‐infection of HCV and HBV than for those without HBV, HCV, and HGV infection. There were no differences in ALT values between subjects with HGV infection alone and those without HBV, HCV, and HGV infections. Residents with co‐infection of HGV and HBV, or HGV and HCV had ALT values similar to those with HBV or HCV infection alone. Conclusion: HGV infection is common in the HCV endemic village. The transmission of HGV is closely related to low educational attainment. HGV clearance is frequently encountered in females. Co‐infection of HGV does not compound hepatocellular inflammation.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in Germany: a retrospective epidemiological study from a low‐endemic area
Authors: Kubicka Stefan , Rudolph Karl Lenhard , Hanke Martina , Tietze Maja Katrin , Tillmann Hans Ludger , Trautwein Christian , Manns Michael
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Aims/Background: This study was undertaken in order to assess the main features of hepatocellular carcinoma in Germany, a country with low incidences of this tumor. Methods: Two hundred and eighty consecutive patients with hepatocellular carcinomas admitted to the Medical School Hannover between 1993–1997 were retrospectively studied. Results: Reliable data for the assessment of the etiology and the tumor stage of HCC were available for 268 patients. The female/male ratio was 1/4. In 51.9% of the patients, HCC was associated with hepatitis virus B or C (HBV, HCV) infection: 35.1% with HBV, 26.9% with HCV and 10% coinfection with HBV/HCV. This result emphasizes the major impact of HBV and HCV infection in liver cancer in Germany. Of all patients with HCC 74.6% had liver cirrhosis. The predominant majority of the HCC (87%) were restricted to the liver: in only 5.9% could regional lymph node metastases as well as 8.5% metastases in other organs be clinically diagnosed by chest X‐ray, computed tomography scan or sonography. Data to asses the Okuda tumor stage were available for 166 patients: 47% were classified as stage I, 47% as stage II and only 6% as stage III. Serum AFP were determined in 195 patients. In 66% of the patients, the AFP value was elevated, but only in 30% did the AFP level reach the value of 500 μg/l, which is considered to be significant for HCC diagnosis in patients with liver cirrhosis. The proportion of liver cirrhosis was higher in HCV (97.8%) versus HBV (80.6%) associated HCC, which was the only significant (p<0.05) difference in the characteristics of HCC according to the etiology. Conclusion: Our study shows that liver cirrhosis is the prime risk factor for hepatocarcinogenesis in Germany. However, the very high proportion of hepatitis virus related HCC, in particular the high proportion of HBV infections, contradicts the common view that alcohol is by far the most important etiological factor for hepatocarcinogenesis in low hepatitis virus endemic areas such as Germany.
Plasma elimination of cholyl‐lysyl‐fluorescein (CLF): a pilot study in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Milkiewicz Piotr , Saksena Sushma , Cardenas Teresa , Mills Charles O. , Elias Elwyn
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Background: Cholyl‐lysyl‐fluorescein (CLF) is a fluorescein‐labelled bile acid whose biological behaviour closely resembles that of naturally occurring cholyl glycine. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the CLF plasma elimination in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: A dose of CLF at 0.02 mg/kg b.w. was administered i.v. in 26 patients with liver cirrhosis and 9 healthy volunteers. Blood samples were collected before injection and then at 10 min intervals over 60 min. Plasma fluorescence was measured by a luminescence spectrometer and residual fluorescence over the time of the study was compared in each group. Routine liver function tests (rLFTs) were performed before each injection. Results: Plasma elimination of CLF was significantly impaired in patients with cirrhosis compared to healthy subjects with p values <0.0001 at each analyzed time point. CLF test showed 100% sensitivity for liver cirrhosis when residual fluorescence was measured 30, 40, 50 and 60 min after injection. Routine LFTs showed 85% sensitivity for bilirubin, 84% for total bile acids, 69% for aspartate aminotransferase 62% for albumin and 50% for alkaline phosphatase. CLF elimination measured 60 min after injection correlated with Child‐Pugh score (r=0.3945; p<0.05) and albumin (rs=0.6451; p<0.001). No adverse reaction or side effects of CLF were observed. Conclusions: CLF test clearly distinguished between the two analyzed groups and was more sensitive than routine liver function tests. The test appears safe, simple to perform and analyze and after validation in larger cohorts of patients may have the potential to become a useful dynamic test of liver function.
Surgery for biliary atresia
Authors: Ohi Ryoji
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Although the prognosis of biliary atresia has been improved in recent years, particularly in the era of liver transplantation, hepatic portoenterostomy, e.g., the Kasai operation, is still the first line of surgical treatment. Successful hepatic portoenterostomy depends on early diagnosis and operation, adequate operative technique, prevention of postoperative cholangitis, and precise postoperative management. The pathophysiology of the liver and of the intrahepatic bile ducts in this disease is still controversial.
Concomitant inflammatory pseudotumor of the liver and spleen
Authors: Di Vita Giuseppe , Soresi Maurizio , Patti Rosalia , Carroccio Antonio , Leo Pietro , Franco Vito , Montalto Giuseppe
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We report the case of a 53‐year‐old man with inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) of the liver and spleen. This concomitant association has rarely been reported. The patient presented with a hypoechoic mass in the liver and a clinical picture of recurrent sepsis; hematochemical exams and imaging data were nonspecific. Antibiotic therapy improved the clinical course, but did not resolve it definitively. After 50 days of therapy, as the hepatic mass decreased a similar lesion appeared in the spleen. The final diagnosis was made on splenectomy and an intra‐operative biopsy of the residual liver lesion. The diagnostic problems encountered in this very rare association of IPT of the liver and spleen were similar to those for isolated IPT in the respective single organ sites. After 15 months of follow‐up, the patient is in good health and no recurrence of symptoms or masses has been observed.
Analysis of haemochromatosis gene mutations in a population from the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Campo Salvatore , Restuccia Tea , Villari Daniela , Raffa Giuseppina , Cucinotta Domenico , Squadrito Giovanni , Pollicino Teresa , Raimondo Giovanni
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Background/Aims: The C282Y mutation in the haemochromatosis gene (HFE) located on chromosome 6 has been identified as the main genetic basis of hereditary haemochromatosis (HH). Two more mutations of that gene, H63D and S65C, appear to be associated with milder forms of HH. A high allele frequency for C282Y and H63D mutations was reported in populations from North Europe, while incomplete information is available for individuals from the Mediterranean Basin where C282Y homozygotes comprise a smaller percentage of HH cases. In this study we investigated the allele frequency of HFE mutations and the association between HFE mutations and cases of HH in a population from the South of Italy (Sicily and Calabria). In addition, we evaluated a possible association between HFE mutations and either chronic liver disease or type II diabetes. Patients and Methods: Three hundred and twenty‐seven individuals (654 chromosomes) were tested for C282Y, H63D and S65C mutations of the HFE gene by restriction fragment length polymorphism. Four had HH, 23 had hepatocellular carcinoma, 100 had chronic liver disease, 100 had type II diabetes, and 100 were healthy controls. Results: Both C282Y and S65C mutations were each detected in one of the 654 chromosomes analysed (allele frequency=0.15%), while H63D change was found in 122 chromosomes (allele frequency=18.6%) and was equally distributed in all the categories examined. One healthy individual had compound heterozygosity for C282Y and H63D mutations. The frequency of C282Y in this Southern Italian sample was the lowest yet reported for a population of European origin. None of the four HH patients was either homozygous or heterozygous for C282Y. Conclusions: In Mediterranean populations from Southern Italy the C282Y mutation occurs sporadically and HFE polymorphisms seem to have little diagnostic relevance.
Major liver resection results in a changed plasma amino acid pattern as reflected by a decreased Fischer ratio which improves by bactericidal/permeability increasing protein
Authors: Nijveldt Robert J. , Wiezer Marinus J. , Meijer Catharina , Prins Hubert A. , Muller Markwin G. Statius , Gouma Dirk J. , Teerlink Tom , Van Gulik Thomas M. , Rinkes Inne H. M. Borel , Tilanus Hugo W. , Van de Velde Cornelis J. H. , Wiggers Theo , Zoetmulder Frans A. N. , Scotté Michel , Cuesta Miguel A. , Meijer Sybren , Leeuwen Paul A. M. van
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Background/Aims: Major liver resection results in a high morbidity and mortality, and endotoxin plays a role in post‐resection hepatic failure. Severe hepatic failure as seen in hepatitis and cirrhosis may be accompanied by hepatic encephalopathy and is characterized by a typical plasma amino acid pattern reflected by a decreased Fischer ratio. This study was performed to evaluate the plasma amino acid pattern in patients undergoing major liver surgery receiving placebo or the endotoxin‐neutralizing agent bactericidal/permeability‐increasing protein (rBPI21). Patients and methods: Forty‐eight patients were randomized in this phase II, dose escalation, multicenter trial. Plasma amino acid profiles were determined preoperatively, and on the first (day 1) and third (day 3) postoperative day. Results: In the placebo group the Fischer ratio decreased significantly on both postoperative days. Administration of rBPI21 also resulted in a decreased Fischer ratio on day 1, but not on day 3. Highly elevated alanine plasma levels were observed on day 1 in placebo‐treated patients, whereas rBPI21 prevented this elevation. Plasma alanine levels on day 1 correlated with the duration of post‐resection hepatic failure. Conclusions: Major liver resection results in a decreased Fischer ratio and a rise in plasma alanine levels. Plasma levels of alanine on the first postoperative day correlated with the duration of the post‐resection hepatic failure. rBPI21 improved the Fischer ratio and prevented the rise of plasma alanine levels.
Presence of low levels of anti‐HBs antibody in so‐called ‘anti‐HBc alone’ subjects
Authors: Greub Gilbert , Frei Philippe C.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Background/Aims: The ‘anti‐Hbc alone’ pattern could sometimes be that of subjects who produced anti‐HBs after recovery, but at a lower level than that detectable using commercial assays. This study aimed to test this hypothesis. Methods: A total of 104 ‘anti‐HBc alone’ serum samples, i.e.positive for the anti‐HBc antibody but not for HBsAg nor for anti‐HBs antibody, were recruited when routine testing a broad population of employees, patients and pregnant women from a university hospital. A possible subliminal anti‐HBs production, that would have escaped detection by commercial EIAs, was investigated by comparing the optical densities (ODs) obtained in vaccinees (commercial anti‐HBs EIA) to those of a control group of 100 nonimmunised and nonvaccinated subjects. Results: The median OD was significantly higher (p<0.0001) in the ‘anti‐HBc alone’ subjects (OD=0.035) than in the controls (OD=0.023). Thirty‐six percent of the ‘anti‐HBc alone’ subjects had an anti‐HBs OD higher than the median OD of the controls+2SD. ‘Anti‐HBc alone’ subjects with anti‐HBe antibody had higher anti‐HBs ODs (0.041) than had those without anti‐HBe (0.029). In ‘anti‐HBc alone’ subjects, the anti‐HBs ODs, although under the cut‐off value of the EIA, were found to be higher than in the controls. Conclusion: Our results show low anti‐HBs production in some of the subjects studied.
Meta‐analysis of propylthiouracil for alcoholic liver disease – a Cochrane Hepato‐Biliary Group Review
Authors: Rambaldi A. , Gluud Christian
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Aims/Background:The aim of this review was to determine the benefits and adverse effects of propylthiouracil for patients with alcoholic liver disease.Methods: Systematic Cochrane Review of randomised clinical trials. The Cochrane Hepato‐Biliary Controlled Clinical Trials Register, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and full text searches were combined. All analyses were performed according to the intention‐to‐treat method. Only randomised clinical trials studying patients with alcoholic steatosis, alcoholic fibrosis, alcoholic hepatitis and/or alcoholic cirrhosis were included. Interventions encompassed propylthiouracil at any doseversusplacebo or no intervention. The trials could be double‐blind, single‐blind or unblinded.Results: Six randomised clinical trials randomising 710 patients demonstrated no significant effects of propylthiouracilversusplacebo on mortality (Peto odds ratio (OR) 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.59 to 1.40), liver‐related mortality (OR 0.78, CI 0.45 to 1.33), complications to the liver disease (OR 1.14, CI 0.58 to 2.24), and liver histology. Propylthiouracil was associated with a nonsignificant trend toward an increased risk of nonserious adverse events (OR 1.49, CI 0.74 to 2.99) and with the rare occurrence of serious adverse events (leukopenia).Conclusions:This systematic review could not demonstrate any significant effect of propylthiouracil on any clinically important outcomes (mortality, liver‐related mortality, liver complications and liver histology) of patients with alcoholic liver disease.
Naturally occurring fatal herpes simplex virus 1 infection in a family of white‐faced saki monkeys (Pithecia pithecia pithecia)
Authors: Schrenzel M.D. , Osborn K.G. , Shima A. , Klieforth R.B. , Maalouf G.A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: A family of three white‐faced saki monkeys (Pithecia pithecia pithecia) died 48–96 hours after the onset of anorexia, nasal discharge, pyrexia and oral ulceration. One animal also had clonic seizures. Lesions found post‐mortem consisted of oral and esophageal ulcers, hepatic and intestinal necrosis, meningoencephalitis and sporadic neuronal necrosis. Intranuclear inclusion bodies and syncytial cells were present in oral lesions and affected areas of liver. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1) was identified as the etiology of disease by virus isolation, polymerase chain reaction, or in situ hybridization in all three animals. Immunohistochemistry for detection of apoptotic DNA and activated caspase‐3 showed significant levels of apoptosis in oral and liver lesions and occasional apoptotic neurons in the brain. These findings demonstrate the vulnerability of white‐faced saki monkeys to HSV‐1 and provide initial insight into the pathogenesis of fatal HSV‐1‐induced disease, indicating that apoptosis plays a significant role in cell death.
Jet‐liquid interaction in a steelmaking electric arc furnace
Authors: Lee Mark , Whitney Victoria , Molloy Neil
Published: March 2003

The interaction of liquid steel and an inclined impinging oxygen jet in an electric arc furnace is of interest both commercially and scientifically. The bath activity in the EAF may vary from a surface splash ejected to high elevation to intense sub‐surface mixing. The system is appropriately modelled using water and nitrogen with scaled flowrates. In previous work, the gas‐liquid contacting of the EAF was investigated by use of a geometrically similar 1/3rd scale 3‐dimensional water model. The cavity formed by the jet contacting the liquid surface was characterised by 4 modal regimes. These regimes were seen to depend on the lance angle, the height of the lance and the jet flowrate. To investigate the evolutionary mechanisms of the cavity regimes a two dimensional water model study was undertaken. The 2‐dimensional water model was a rectangular viewing tank with an inner movable glass wall that allowed a very thin slice of the system to be obtained. The shape of the cavity formed on the water surface was seen clearly along with the expected cavity oscillations. High‐speed video footage of the two dimensional system allowed the cavity oscillation to be directly observed. The gas‐liquid interaction produced a wave that travelled along the surface of the cavity until it reached the cavity crest where it was torn from the liquid surface and dispersed in a splash. It is the regular progression of the waves’ nodes and anti‐nodes along the cavity surface that make the cavity appear to oscillate. When the wave reaches the crest of the cavity, it will either fall back into the path of the gas jet or be projected as a splash depending on the verticality of the cavity surface. The 2‐dimensional work, along with the initial 3‐dimensional investigation, has shown that the troublesome splash in the EAF is caused by how the lance is positioned directionally or azimuthally. By changing the lance angle or height the deleterious splashing of molten metal may be prevented, ameliorated or controlled. The frequency of the wave production was determined from the high speed video footage. The cavity oscillation was found to be a function of the size of the cavity, the inclined height of the lance and the modal regime being produced. Alterations to the flow through the lance had only a moderate effect on the frequency of oscillation indicating that velocity was not the major influential factor.
Front‐end bending in plate rolling
Authors: Nilsson A.
Published: March 2003

Asymmetric rolling conditions often cause front‐end bending in the plate mills. In this work, experiments were performed to study how different parameters influence front‐end bending in plate rolling. The parameters studied were: the influence of different peripheral speeds on the top and bottom work rolls, different reductions, a thermal gradient across the thickness of the plate and the position of the roller table in relation to the neutral axis of the roll gap. The results were evaluated statistically and a good model was obtained. Finite‐element simulations were made to simulate ski‐end behaviour for the different plates. A comparison with the experimental results was made.
The effect of austempering time on mechanical properties of a ductile iron
Authors: Baydogˇan Murat , Çimenogˇlu Hüseyin
Published: March 2003

In this study, the effects of austempering treatment on hardness, tensile properties and wear resistance of a ductile iron were examined. Austempering at 300 °C after austenitising at 900 °C for 100 min improved the mechanical properties of the investigated ductile iron with respect to as‐cast condition. Increase of austempering time from 45 min to 180 min did not cause further improvement in hardness and strength, but increased the ductility and wear resistance, progressively.
Aluminium fluoride consumption and control in smelting cells
Authors: Hyland M. M. , Patterson E. C. , Stevens‐McFadden F. , Welch B. J.
Published: March 2003

For optimum operation and performance of aluminium smelting cells, each technology has an ideal aluminium fluoride concentration for the solvent electrolyte. The actual value used is influenced by the alumina dissolution and varies because of different alumina‐feeding technologies. The aluminium fluoride is consumed within the cell and therefore, chemical analysis is performed as part of the process to determine the amount required for replenishment of the consumption. However the cell has a dynamic energy balance and that causes simultaneous variations in the distribution of solid and liquid electrolyte components, complicating the overall situation. Ultimately, it results in the chemical analysis varying. Thus, it becomes a major challenge to determine the amount of aluminium fluoride that needs to be added to replenish the consumption, whilst maintaining the cell at close to its optimum range.
Olivine slags: the ultimate solution to low copper slags?
Authors: Vartiainen A. , Kytö M.
Published: March 2003

The background of direct blister copper smelting is discussed, especially copper solubility to iron silicate and calcium ferrite slags. The use of olivine type of slags has been introduced in the literature, and the theoretical possibilities to decrease copper solubility using these slags is shown. From a practical and economical point of view, the problem in blister copper making is due to the high amount of fluxes requirement and thus a high amount of slag is produced while trying to reach the minimum copper solubility area for normal type of copper concentrates. However, for concentrates with low iron content, and high copper content, olivine type of slags are one interesting option to be used.
Coating of iron oxide pellets for direct reduction
Authors: Basdağ Ali , Arol Ali Ihsan
Published: March 2003

Depending upon their chemical composition and, to a lesser extent, on their physical properties, iron oxide pellets exhibit varying degrees of sticking tendency during direct reduction at elevated temperatures. For an efficient shaft furnace operation in direct reduction (DR), it is imperative to prevent pellets from sticking to each other and, hence, forming clusters. Coating of pellets with a suitable inorganic material has increasingly been gaining recognition amongst the pellet producers and DR plant operators as an effective method of preventing sticking. In this study, the effect of coating on the sticking of DR‐grade pellets with low and high basicity (Midrex and HyL quality pellets, respectively) was investigated. The results show that bauxite and serpentine alone, and limestone and bentonite in combination are suitable materials for the prevention of sticking of both types of pellets.
The status of twin‐roll casting technology
Authors: Wechsler Richard
Published: March 2003

Within the coming days the world's first commercial, direct twin‐roll caster for carbon steel strip less than 2.0 mm, without further hot or cold rolling, will be started by Nucor in the United States. Although the process has been previously proven on a technical basis during full‐scale development in Australia, the Nucor caster is unique in that it will have to demonstrate both its technical and economic advantages in a rigorous commercial environment. The advent of any new technology naturally raises the question of whether there is a need for that technology, and where the new technology will fit into the spectrum of existing processes. Experience to date indicates that twin‐roll casters will quickly fill a latent demand for ultra‐thin cast strip (UCS), i.e., a new product category for sheet steel. In the future, thick slab casters, thin slab casters and twin‐roll casters will coexist and become increasingly specialized. The result will be both new and better products for steel consumers and satisfactory financial returns for steelmakers. The CASTRIP®1 process produces steel strip between 0.7 and 2.0 mm in thickness, directly from liquid steel. For many applications the UCS product will be directly usable by end users, without further hot rolling, pickling or cold rolling. It can be galvanized, coated with aluminum/zinc, painted and formed without further processing, and will be available in strength levels from about 250 Mpa to more than 600 Mpa—all using a single, simple chemistry. End‐users will be able to buy a new product with price and properties intermediate between today's hot‐rolled and cold‐rolled steels.

Among the unique features of the process is its much lower consumption of energy and reduced environmental emissions.
Importance of patch scale vs landscape scale on selected forest birds
Authors: Lee Michelle , Fahrig Lenore , Freemark Kathryn , Currie David J.
Published: March 2003

The management and protection of natural areas have primarily occurred in isolation from surrounding land management. The structure of surrounding land cover, however, may be important to the abundance and reproductive success of birds within a habitat patch. We investigated the relative importance of forest patch area, within patch habitat and surrounding landscape forest cover on the abundance of three Neotropical migrant bird species thought to be area‐sensitive (ovenbird [Seiurus aurocapillus], wood thrush [Hylocichla mustelina] and red‐eyed vireo [Vireo olivaceus]), and on pairing success of the ovenbird. We selected 31 isolated forest patches of differing sizes, and three 80‐ha plots in continuous forest each centered within non‐overlapping 200‐ha landscapes, such that patch area and landscape forest cover were uncorrelated among landscapes. Each study plot was surveyed to estimate abundances of territorial males and ovenbird pairing success. Landscape forest cover (p<0.05) explained the most variation in ovenbird abundance, while percent deciduous forest cover within patches (p<0.05) and patch size (p<0.05) explained the most variation in red‐eyed vireo and wood thrush abundance, respectively. Patch size was a significant (p<0.05) predictor of abundance for all three study species; however, density for all species decreased significantly (p<0.05) with patch size. Ovenbird pairing success was higher in continuous forest plots than in forest patches (p=0.018). This study's findings suggest that the relative importance of within patch characteristics, patch size and landscape forest cover varies for different bird species, and that conservation efforts would benefit from the inclusion of all three factors.
Components of short‐term invasibility in experimental Mediterranean grasslands
Authors: Troumbis Andreas Y. , Galanidis Alexis , Kokkoris Giorgos D.
Published: March 2003

The paper reports findings of a natural invasibility study in constructed Mediterranean grasslands, located in the Greek site of the BIODEPTH project. Three different components of invasibility, i.e. species richness, abundance and rarity of invaders, have been monitored in experimental plots where the resident diversity ranged from monocultures to 18‐species mixtures. Invaders’ richness and abundance were negatively correlated to the resident diversity, while the occurrence of rare invaders was strongly positively correlated to the resident diversity. Standing biomass explained also a significant part of the variation of communities’ invasibility. Soil nutrients and structural traits of the constructed vegetation such as the space‐filling showed no influence in the definition of the overall pattern of invasibility in these communities. A verbal model of selection of invaders at the neighbourhood scale is proposed to explain these diverging trends of invasibility.
Permeability of three boreal forest landscape types to bird movements as determined from experimental translocations
Authors: Gobeil Jean‐François , Villard Marc‐André
Published: March 2003

Efficient dispersal is critical to metapopulation persistence in fragmented landscapes. Yet, this phenomenon is poorly understood because it is difficult to study. We used an indirect method, experimental translocation, to investigate the permeability of three landscape types of the boreal mixedwood forest region of Canada to movements of a forest specialist, the ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), and a habitat generalist, the white‐throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). We captured a total of 148 males (84 ovenbirds; 64 sparrows), which were then colour banded and displaced ca. 2 km away from their territories in landscapes fragmented either by agriculture, timber harvesting, or natural disturbances. We measured the probability and time of return of individuals to their territories during the 48 h following their translocation. We examined the relative influence of landscape type, territory quality, and age, physical characteristics, and pairing status of individuals on their probability or time of return. For both species, landscape type was the only significant predictor of the probability and time of return of individuals. For the ovenbird, the agricultural landscape was least permeable, followed by the harvested and naturally patchy landscapes. The agricultural and harvested landscapes were equally permeable to white‐throated sparrow movements, and the naturally patchy landscape was the least permeable. Permeability to ovenbird movements increased with the proportion of forest in the landscape. Because matrix type and the proportion and configuration of forest differed significantly among the three landscape types, we could not determine their relative influence on landscape permeability to bird movements. However, our results do indicate that even a long‐distance migrant such as the ovenbird can move more rapidly and efficiently across the landscape as the proportion of suitable (or permeable) habitat increases.
Volatiles from flowers ofPlatanthera bifolia(Orchidaceae) attractive to the silver Y moth,Autographa gamma(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Plepys Dainius , Ibarra Fernando , Löfstedt Christer
Published: March 2003

We examined the attractiveness of a natural headspace sample ofPlatanthera bifoliablossoms, synthetic blends and single compounds to the silver Y moth,Autographa gamma,in a flight tunnel. The synthetic blend consisted of previously identified electrophysiologically active compounds fromP. bifolia: benzyl benzoate, benzyl salicylate, cinnamyl alcohol, lilac aldehydes, methyl benzoate and methyl salicylate. This blend had a similar attractivity as the natural headspace sample. Subtraction of lilac aldehydes significantly decreased attractiveness of the synthetic blend. When a mixture of lilac aldehydes was tested alone, it showed attractiveness similar to that of the synthetic blend. One or a mixture of lilac aldehydes accounts for the attraction of moths toP. bifolia. All other compounds elicited significantly lower responses. Results are discussed in relation to the pollination biology ofP. bifolia.
Intense episodic predation by shorebirds may influence life history strategy of an intertidal amphipod
Authors: Hilton Carol , Walde Sandra J. , Leonard Marty L.
Published: March 2003

Life history theory suggests that selective predation on older or larger individuals in prey populations or a disturbance such as intense and episodic predation should lead to smaller size at maturity, and a tendency toward semelparity. Many populations of the intertidal amphipod, Corophium volutator, in the western Atlantic are subjected to an intense period of size‐selective predation for about one month in summer, during the southward migration of shorebirds. We compared size at maturity and fecundity of populations of C. volutator from mudflats that are intensively used by shorebirds with populations that are visited by very few birds. We found that mature females were of similar size in May, but those from bird mudflats produced more offspring during the first reproductive episode. In July, females of the summer generation began to reproduce at a smaller size on bird mudflats, and as a consequence, produced fewer offspring that grew more slowly. The results of this correlative study suggest that shorebird predation has shaped C. volutator life history in two ways. First, females on bird mudflats concentrate their reproductive effort into a larger early brood, probably because later broods would come to maturity during the period of intense predation. Second, in summer, amphipods begin to reproduce at a smaller size so as to produce a brood before the arrival of the birds in mid‐July. Predators are not present at the time that these responses occur, and thus they are probably not a plastic response to perceived predation risk. Thus the patterns we observed agree with the predictions of recent theories: individuals faced with a predictable disturbance alter their life cycles so as to minimize the effect of that disturbance.
Predictors of tobacco and alcohol consumption and their relevance to oral cancer control amongst people from minority ethnic communities in the South Thames health region, England
Authors: Khan F. A. , Robinson P. G. , Warnakulasuriya K. A. A. S. , Newton J. T. , Gelbier S. , Gibbons D. E.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the determinants of the health behaviour of ethnic groups in relation to alcohol and tobacco use. A cross‐sectional questionnaire survey was carried out using network sampling amongst community groups in the South Thames region of the United Kingdom. Self‐classified ethnic groups were identified: Black‐African; Black–Caribbean; Indian; Pakistani; Bangladeshi and Chinese/Vietnamese. A total of 1113 people were recruited in the study. In all of the ethnic groups, men were more likely than women to smoke tobacco. Chewing of pan and tobacco was common in the South Asian communities and alcohol consumption was high among the Black–Caribbean group. Those factors were predicted by education, employment, gender and being born in the UK. It is important to examine the determinants of such risk behaviours in order to aid appropriate targeting of health promotion interventions, particularly those related to cancer control.
Cellular heterogeneity of granular cell tumours: a clue to their nature?
Authors: Maiorano Eugenio , Favia Gianfranco , Napoli Anna , Resta Leonardo , Ricco Rosalia , Viale Giuseppe , Altini Mario
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Most granular cell tumours (GCTs) are benign proliferations of purported Schwannian derivation, showing immunoreactivity for Schwann cell‐related antigens. Due to incomplete agreement on the precise nature of GCTs (reactive vs neoplastic), we performed an immunohistochemical study with the alkaline phosphatase/anti‐alkaline phosphatase (APAAP) technique on 30 GCTs. The aim was to evaluate their growth patterns and the possible relationships of granular cells with other nerve sheath‐related cell types (i.e., Schwann and perineurial cells, and dendritic cells displaying CD34/vimentin immunoreactivity). An expansive growth pattern was detected in five cases, a pseudoinfiltrative growth pattern in nine cases and a mixture of the above in the remaining 16 cases. Besides immunoreactivity for S‐100 protein, neuron‐specific enolase, vimentin, CD57, CD68, MAC 387, α‐1‐antitrypsin and α‐1‐antichymotrypsin in granular cells, we documented intimate architectural relationships between granular cells, Schwann and perineurial cells, and a third type of CD34/vimentin‐positive nerve sheath‐related cell in most GCTs. These results suggest that GCTs are heterogeneous lesions. Some of them show a pseudoinfiltrative growth pattern and retain close relationships with the normal components of the nerve sheath. In other lesions, granular cells grow in an expansive fashion and constitute the predominant cell component of the tumour. These architectural and immunophenotypic differences may reflect a different nature of GCTs: they may initially represent reactive or hamartomatous lesions that subsequently acquire truly neoplastic potential.
TNF‐α expression and apoptosis‐regulating proteins in oral lichen planus: a comparative immunohistochemical evaluation
Authors: Sklavounou Alexandra , Chrysomali Evanthia , Scorilas Andreas , Karameris Andreas
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Apoptosis appears to be the mode of cell death by which damaged cells are removed from the lesional tissue in oral lichen planus (OLP). In the present study, OLP biopsies were immunohistochemically evaluated for TNF‐α and apoptosis‐regulating proteins in an attempt to compare their phenotypic expression. Deparaffinized tissue sections from 22 OLP and 10 control oral biopsy specimens were immunohistochemically stained with anti‐Bcl‐2, anti‐Bcl‐x, anti‐Bax and anti‐TNF‐α antibodies. Keratinocytes did not show any immunoreactivity for Bcl‐2, while a uniform intense staining for this protein was evident in the lymphocytic infiltrate of OLP specimens. Immunoreactivity for TNF‐α was seen in 17/22 OLP cases. All control tissues were TNF‐α negative, thus indicating a possible involvement of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of OLP. The differences in the staining intensities of Bcl‐x and Bax between OLP and normal epithelium were slight; therefore an obvious association of the phenotypic TNF‐α expression with these apoptosis‐regulating proteins was not apparent.
Cystic and glial mixed hamartoma of the tongue
Authors: Halfpenny W. , Odell E. W. , Robinson P. D.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Choristomas and mixed hamartomas of the oral cavity are uncommon lesions that show a variety of clinical presentations, histological appearances and growth patterns. We report a case of an unusual mixed hamartoma of the posterior tongue composed of dermoid cyst, sebaceous and glial elements. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated a predominantly cystic lesion limited to the pharyngeal and posterior part of the anterior tongue. A conservative approach was adopted and the lesion has shown minimal growth for 2 years following diagnosis.
Identification of a stop codon mutation in the CBFA1 runt domain from a patient with cleidocranial dysplasia and cleft lip
Authors: Yamachika E. , Tsujigiwa H. , Ishiwari Y. , Mizukawa N. , Nagai N. , Sugahara T.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We examined a patient with cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) and cleft lip and found a new stop codon mutation in CBFA1. This mutation was a heterozygous C‐to‐T transition in exon 3 of CBFA1. This nucleotide change converts a CAA codon to a TAA (stop) codon at amino acid position Gln195 in the runt domain of CBFA1.
Clinico‐pathological aspects of a residual natal tooth: a case report
Authors: Tsubone Hanako , Onishi Tomoyuki , Hayashibara Tetsuyuki , Sobue Shizuo , Ooshima Takashi
Published: March 2003

A Japanese girl was referred to Osaka University Dental Hospital for examination of a tooth‐like structure that had erupted following spontaneous exfoliation of a natal tooth in the lower left primary central incisor region. The structure had erupted at 6 months of age, and radiographic and clinical examination showed composition of pulp and dentin, but no enamel. On histological examination, the majority of the dentin area had a tubular dentin‐like appearance, while the outer area of the root appeared to be composed of an osteodentin‐like substance. Most of the dentin was covered by cementum. These findings suggest that the structure had originated from a developing remnant of the extracted natal tooth, which must have remained in the gingival tissues. We termed this calcified structure a residual natal tooth.
Cytokine profile and supposed contribution to scarring in cicatricial pemphigoid
Authors: Caproni Marzia , Calzolari Anna , Salvatore Elisabetta , Giomi Barbara , Volpi Walter , D'Agata Alberino , Santucci Marco , Fabbri Paolo
Published: March 2003

Background:  The progressive scarring observed in cicatricial pemphigoid (CP) is still partially unexplained but recently the release of soluble fibrogenic factors by inflammatory infiltrating cells has been considered as pathogenically relevant. In the present study we evaluated the expression of mRNA for IL‐4, IL‐5, TGF‐β1, IFN‐γ in CP in comparison to bullous pemphigoid (BP) patients, investigating the role of cytokine profile as possible cause of the different disease evolution.

Methods:  Biopsies from patients with oral (n = 10), preputial (n = 3) and cutaneous (n = 1) CP were studied by in situ hybridisation performing a new amplification system based on biotinyl‐tyramide. As control, four patients affected by BP were also examined, together with healthy tissue from two CP and two BP patients, respectively.

Results:  In CP IL‐4 mRNA expression was present in 4 out of 14 cases analysed. IL‐5 was detected in 12 CP biopsies. TGF‐β1 and IFN‐γ mRNAs were identified in 9 and 11 CP cases, respectively. In BP, IL‐4 hybridisation signal could not be observed in any of the cases. By contrast IL‐5, TGF‐β1 and IFN‐γ mRNA analyses were positive in all BP cases. Healthy specimens did not show any expression for IL‐4, IL‐5 and IFN‐γ, while a poor staining for TGF‐β was found in epithelium and subjunctional areas.

Conclusions:  Our results highlight the presence of a mixed cytokine pattern in the cellular infiltrate of both blistering diseases, with a corresponding increase of Th2‐like activity in fully developed lesions, irrespective of the different sites involved. In addition, the constant presence of TGF‐β1 mRNA in the different lesional phases of CP, and its overlapping expression in BP suggest that the involvement of additional factors is responsible for the scarring course typical of CP.
Abschied vom Surrealismus. Zur Verwüstung der Bilder in Edmond Jabès' Je bâtis ma demeure
Authors: Erbertz Carola
Published: March 2003

Die frühe Lyrik von Edmond Jabès legt den Grundstein der Spezifität seines komplizierten Spätwerkes, welches sich ab 1963, zentriert um den Begriff ‘des Buches’, jenseits literarischer Gattungen ansiedelt. Doch die charakteristische Schreibweise des Autors zeichnet sich bereits in dem Lyrikband Je bâtis ma demeure von 1959 ab, wenngleich sie hier noch auf der Suche nach sich selbst ist. Die Loslösung von literarischen Traditionen und insbesondere vom Surrealismus begleitet diesen Prozeß, wie anhand des schwindenden Stellenwertes surrealistischer Ideen, Verfahren und Bilder in der frühen Lyrik ersichtlich ist. Die folgende Untersuchung legt dar, wie sich die Dynamik des späteren Textverständnisses von Jabès aus einem Prozeß der Emanzipation heraus entwickelt, der zugleich ein Abschied von der Lyrik ist. Vorbereitet wird Jabès' Bruch mit dem Surrealismus in der nuancierten Abgrenzung von einem der Ahnen der Bewegung, von Arthur Rimbaud. Hier beginnt sich zu zeigen, daß die Unantastbarkeit der Sprache, ihre Selbstreferentialität die Existenz eines metaphysischen Bereichs, ja jeder höheren Realiät ausschließt. Das Eindringen des Nichts in den Text hat ein Zurückweichen des Bildlichen zur Folge. In Je bâtis ma demeure situiert und konstituiert Jabès seine eigene, im Entstehen begriffene Poetologie. Die Selbstüberschreitung in der poetischen Reflexion bereitet die Selbstbefragung des Jabèsschen Spätwerkes entscheidend vor.
Tales of Buddha, Dreams of Arabia: Joyce and Images of the East
Authors: Almond Ian
Published: March 2003

This article attempts to examine and compare the presentation of the Orient in two separate texts by Joyce, the short story “Araby” and Ulysses. Whereas the attitude towards the ‘East’ in the young Joyce is essentially Romantic and almost transcendental (the Orient as a kind of afterlife where everything will be better), in Ulysses we see a more intelligent awareness of the Orient as a Western construct – a gallery of exotic images which has little to do with reality. Where the semantic emptiness of the Orient in “Araby” produces a sense of woe and melancholy, the author of Ulysses affirms the emptiness and appears unpertubed by the absense of any reality behind the various Buddhas, camels and bellydancers that appear in the novel.

I have seen Mankind in various Countries and find them equally despicable, if anything the Balance is rather in favour of the Turks. – Byron, “Memorandum”, May 22nd 1811