bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticonvulsive and Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Gastrodia elata Bl. in Kainic Acid-Treated Rats
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Liang , Chiang Su-Yin , Cheng Ken-Sheng , Lin Yu-Hsien , Tang Nou-Ying , Lee Chia-Jung , Pon Chu-Zong , Hsieh Ching-Tou
Published: October 2003

Gastrodia elata Bl. (GE) is a traditional Chinese herb that is commonly used in Chinese communities to treat convulsive disorders such as epilepsy. The purpose of the present study was to determine the anticonvulsive and free radical activities of GE in rats. In vitro studies were conducted by using brain tissue from 6 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats treated with 120 μg/ml of kainic acid (KA), with or without the addition of various concentrations of GE. In vivo studies were conducted in a total of 30 male SD rats divided into 5 groups of 6 rats which were treated as follows: 1) the normal group received an intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of PBS (Phosphate buffer saline, 1 ml/kg); 2) the control group received KA (12 mg/kg) i.p.; 3) the GE 1.0 group received oral administration of GE 1.0 g/kg 30 min prior to KA administration; 4) the GE 0.5 group reveived oral administration of GE 0.5 g/kg 30 min prior to KA administration; 5) the PH group reveived oral administration of phenytoin 20 mg/kg 30 min prior to KA administration. Seizures were verified by behavioral observations, electroencephalograph (EEG) and electromyography (EMG). Lipid peroxide levels in the rat brain, luminol chemiluminescence (CL) and lucigenin-CL in the peripheral blood were measured simultaneously after behavioral observations. The results indicate that GE administration significantly reduced KA-induced lipid peroxide levels in vitro. Oral administration of GE 1.0 g/kg and phenytoin 20 mg/kg significantly reduced counts of wet dog shakes (WSS), paw tremor (PT) and facial myoclonia (FM) in KA-treated rats. In addition, oral administration of GE 1.0 g/kg significantly delayed the onset of WDS, from 30 min in the control group to 46 min in the 0.5 g/kg group, and 63 min in the GE 1.0 g/kg group. A significantly reduced level of lipid peroxides in the rat brain was found in the GE 1.0 g/kg, 0.5 g/kg, and phenytoin 20 mg/kg groups. The GE 1.0 g/kg group showed significant reduction of luminol-CL and lucigenin-CL counts in the peripheral blood compared to the control group. The results of the present study demonstrate that GE has anticonvulsive and free radical scavenging activities. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical effectiveness of GE as an anticonvulsant in humans.
Effects of Puerariae Flos and Puerariae Radix Extracts on Antioxidant Enzymes in Ethanol-Treated Rats
Authors: Lee Mi-Kyung , Cho Soo-Yuel , Jang Joo-Yeun , Choi Myung-Sook , Jeon Seon-Min , Jang Moon Kyoo , Kim Myung-Joo , Park Yong Bok
Published: October 2003

This study was performed to investigate the effect of Puerariae Flos (PF) and Puerariae Radix (PR) water extracts on the activities and mRNA expression of three hepatic antioxidant enzymes in ethanol-treated rates. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups, a control, ethanol-treated, ethanol plus PF-treated, and ethanol plus PR-treated group with seven rats per group. Ethanol (25% v/v, 5g/kg body weight) was orally administered once a day for 5 weeks. The PF and PR water extracts were supplemented in a diet based on 1.2 g of raw PF or PR/kg body weight/day. Ethanol administration without the PF or PR supplement significantly lowered the activities of hepatic Cu/Zn SOD and catalase (CAT), whereas it increased the hepatic GSH-Px activity. However, the PF and PR supplementation resulted in a significant increase in the Cu/Zn SOD and/or CAT activities and a significant decrease in the GSH-Px activity in the ethanol-treated rats. The mRNA levels of these antioxidant enzymes in the ethanol-treated rats were normalized to the control level by the PF or PR supplement. The hepatic glutathione content, which was significantly lower in the ethanol-treated group than in the control group, was also normalized to the control level by supplementing with either PF or PR. The PF or PR supplement resulted in lowering the hepatic malondialdehyde to the control level in the ethanol-treated rats.
Treatment with Sheng-Mai-San Reduces Myocardial Infarct Size Through Activation of Protein Kinase C and Opening of Mitochondrial KATP Channel
Authors: Wang Ningyuan , Minatoguchi Shinya , Uno Yoshihiro , Arai Masazumi , Hashimoto Kazuaki , Hashimoto Yasuko , Yamaguchi Kazushige , Fukuda Kazunori , Akao Seigo , Fujiwara Hisayoshi
Published: October 2003

Sheng-Mei-San (SMS), a traditional Chinese formulation comprising Radix Ginseng, Radix Ophiopogonis and Fructus Schisandrae, has long been used for more than 700 years for patients with coronary heart disease. We attempted to clarify 1) whether SMS reduces myocardial infarct size, and 2) whether the infarct size-reducing effect of SMS is related to activation of protein kinase C and the opening of the mitochondrial KATP channels in Japanese white rabbits without collateral circulation. The results indicate that three days treatment but not acute treatment with SMS reduces myocardial infarct size through activation of protein kinase C and opening of the mitochondrial KATP channels.
Bloodletting Acupuncture of the Engorged Vein Around Bl-40 (Wei-Chung) for Acute Lumbar Sprain
Authors: Chen Chung-Jen , Tsai Wen-Chan , Yen Jeng-Hsien , Tsai Jih-Jin , Ou Tsan-Teng , Lin Chun-Ching , Liu Hong-Wen
Published: October 2003

Bloodletting acupuncture is one of the most classic methods of acupuncture therapy, and is still popularly used to treat acute lumbar sprain in the oriental world. However, most physiciants in the western world are not familiar with bloodletting acupuncture, though they may know ordinary acupuncture well. Furthermore based on the literature reviewed, there have been few studies which have investigated the effect of bloodletting acupuncture upon acute lumbar sprain. In this study, we tried to determine if bloodletting acupuncture is effective for acute lumbar sprain. In total, twelve patients were enrolled for analysis. Five patients treated with ordinary acupuncture upon the contralateral SI-3 (Hou-Hsi) point alone. Seven patients were first treated with bloodletting acupuncture to the engorged vein around the ipisilateral Bl-40 (Wei-Chung), and then followed by ordinary acupuncture upon the contralateral SI-3. It was demonstrated that bloodletting acupuncture to the engorged vein around the ipisilateral Bl-40 followed by ordinary acupuncture upon the contralateral SI-3 had more pain relief than ordinary acupuncture upon the contralateral SI-3 alone (83 ± 23% vs. 44 ± 28%) (P < 0.01). And bloodletting acupuncture to the engorged vein around the ipisilateral Bl-40 decreased pain by 56 ± 23%, similar to that of ordinary acupuncture upon the contralateral SI-3 alone (44 ± 28%). These findings suggest that bloodletting acupuncture to the engorged vein around the ipisilateral Bl-40 (Wei-Chung) has a substantial contribution for treatment of acute lumbar sprain.
Modulation of Germination and Growth of Plants by Meditation
Authors: Haid Max , Huprikar Shankar
Published: October 2003

So called primitive peoples of the world share a philosophy that human interaction via ceremony or ritual can affect that natural world. Is it possible to affect the germination and growth of plants by imbuing them with an intent to stimulate or inhibit them? We conducted a double blind series of experiments to determine whether a process of meditation on the water (referred to as "treated") given to a controlled planting of green peas or wheat would affect their germination. Peas were given water treated with stimulating intent. Statistical analysis was done using contingency table, Fisher's test, and Mantel-Haenszel analysis. The germination rate of 504 seeds receiving treated water with stimulating intent was 60.3% compared to 51.8% for the 504 controls (p = 0.006, 0.047, 0.003 respectively). A similar experiment was conducted with wheat with the intent of inhibiting germination. The germination rate of 2970 wheat seeds receiving treated water with inhibitaory intent was 70.7% versus 74.9% for 2970 controls (p < 0.001, 0.0001, 0.001 respectively). During the sixth run of the wheat (inhibition) experiment, the seedlings were harvested and individually weighed on the tenth day after planting to dtermine whether there was any different in growth. The mass of the treated seedlings was statistically significantly lower (mean = 97 mg versus 106 mg for the controls) when compared by analysis of variance (p = 0.000056). We conclude that meditation upon the water supplied to green peas and wheat can affect their germination rates and growth.
Effects of Hokoei-to (Pugongying-Tang), a Kampo Formula, on Monoamine Content in Brain Ragions and Mitogenic Activity of Splenic Lymphocytes in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Song Qing-Hua , Toriizuka Kazuo , Iijima Koji , Yabe Takeshi , Yokozawa Takako , Cyong Jong-Chol
Published: October 2003

Hokoei-to (Pugongying-Tang) is one of the Kampo formulae clinically used for gynecological disturbances such as lack of lactation and mammary swelling. We investigated the effect of Hokoei-to on the nervous and immune systems in ovariectomized mice as a climacteric disorder model. Hokoei-to suppressed the decrease of monoamines in the ventral hippocampus and dorsal hippocampus of ovariectomized mice. It was shown that the Hokoei-to could improve the metabolic turn-over of dopamine. The mitogenic activity of lymphocytes in the spleen was reduced after ovariectomy; a suppression of this reduced activity was observed in the group given Hokoei-to.
Effects of Uwhangchungsimwon on Cell Viability, Proliferation, and Gene Expression of Human Neuronal Cell line IMR32
Authors: Song Keun , Kim Young-Suk , Moon Sang-Kwan , Ko Chang-Nam , Cho Ki-Ho , Bae Hyung-Sup , Lee Kyung-Sup
Published: October 2003

Uwhangchungsimwon (pill, UC) is one of the traditional Korean medical prescription that has been most frequently used for stroke. To Characterize the effects of UC on human neuronal cells, the human neuroblastoma cell line IMR32 was treated with UC, and cell viability, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and gene expression were analyzed. The effect of UC on recovery of cell viability was analyzed following stress induction by nutrient depletion or cold shock. Flow cytometric analysis of the cell cycle showed that UC inhibits cell cycle progression of IMR32 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. UC was also identified to increase cell viability and suppress apoptosis induction by a DNA-damaging agent, etoposide. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that expressions of the p53 tumor suppressor gene and its downstream effect, Waf1, are stimulated whereas expressions of positive cell cycle regulators, c-Myc, c-Fos, and Cyclin D1 were repressed by UC treatment. Moreover, while expression levels of apoptosis inhibitors, Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL were icreased following UC treatment, that of an apoptosis promoter, Bax, was decreased. In addition, expression of BMP-7, which has been recently demonstrated to improve the motor neuron recovery from stroke, was induced by UC while it was not detected in untreated cells. Taken together, our data suggest that the pharmacoclinical effects of UC might be derived in part from its negative regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis through the transcriptional control of related genes.
Effects of Pine Bark Extract Administered to Immunosuppressed Adult Mice Infected withCryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Kim Hyeon Cheol , Healey Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2003

The treatment of cryptosporidiosis using pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®) in immunosuppressed adult C57BL/6N mice infected with Cryptosporidium parvum was investigated. Five groups of 10 mice/group were used. Groups 1, 2, 3, and 5 served as normal, toxicity, placebo, and positive controls, respectively. Mice in groups 2—5 were immunosuppressed with dexamethasone phosphate administered ad libitum in drinking water at a dosage level of 12 μg/ml. Mice in groups 3—5 were inoculated per os with 106C. parvum oocysts on the day immunosuppression was started. Mice in groups 2 and 4 were treated by administering Pycnogenol® orally at 30 mg/kg/day. In group 4, Pycnogenol® was first administered on day 3 postinoculation. Of the four groups of mice immunosuppressed with DEXp (groups 2—5), the two groups treated with Pycnogenol® (groups 2 and 4) had no premature deaths. The other two groups (groups 3 and 5) had 3 and 4 mice die, respectively, before the experiment ended. Consequently, Pycnogenol® was judged to be non-toxic at the dosage level used and even afforded mice some positive health benefits. Fecal oocyst shedding in groups 3—5 was initially detected on day 3 postinoculation. These mice continued to shed oocysts throughout the duration of the 28-day experiment. Oocyst shedding intensities were greater in group 3 and 5 than in group 4. However, histological examination of infected intestinal tissues in groups 3—5 revealed no significant difference with regard to parasite colonization and villus/crypt (V/C) length ratios. As a result, Pycnogenol® was determined to be therapeutically effective against C. parvum at 30 mg/kg/day only when measured by fecal oocyst shedding intensity. There was no effect on parasite tissue colonization and V/C ratios in infected mice. We conclude that Pycnogenol® is a useful dietary supplement for C. parvum-infected patients by affording some positive health benefits, significantly reduces fecal oocyst shedding, but does not decrease parasite colonization of intestinal tissue.
Effect of SKI 306X, a New Herbal Anti-Arthritic Agent, in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study
Authors: Jung Young Bok , Roh Kwon-Jae , Jung Jin-A , Jung Kiwon , Yoo Hunseung , Cho Yong-Baik , Kwak Wie-Jong , Kim Dae-Kee , Kim Key H. , Han Chang-Kyun
Published: October 2003

SKI 306X is a purigied extract from a mixture of three oriental herbal medicines (Clematis mandshurica, Trichosanthes kirilowii and Prunella vulgaris) that have been widely used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as lymphadenitis and arthritis in far East Asia. A double-blind, controlled study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SKI 306X with placebo in 96 patients with classical osteoarthritis of the knee. Patients were randomized to four treatment groups: placebo, 200 mg, 400 mg and 600 mg of SKI 306X t.i.d.. Clinical efficacy and safety were evaluated for 4 weeks continuous treatments. SKI 306X demonstrated its clinical efficacy, as assessed by 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS), Lequesne index and patients' and investigators opinion of the therapeutic effect compared with placebo (p<0.01). No significant adverse events were observed in patients treated with SKI 306X. This study demonstrated that SKI 306X, a new herbal anti-arthritic agent provided clinical efficacy in patients with osteoarthritis.
Evaluation of the Hepatic and Renal-protective Effects of Ganoderma lucidum in Mice
Authors: Shieh Ying-Hua , Liu Chi-Feng , Huang Yao-Kuan , Yang Jen-Yuann , Wu I-Lin , Lin Chia-Hsien , Lin Song-Chow
Published: October 2003

The antioxidative effect of hot water extract of the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum on ethanol-induced free radical generation had been studied. In order to further investigate the hepatic and renal protective mechanism of Ganoderma lucidum, rates of lipid peroxidation were determined. The hot water extract of Ganoderma lucidum dose-dependently exhibited antioxidative effect on mouse liver and kidney lipid peroxidation; our results indicated that hepatic and renal homogenates have a higher malonic dialdehyde level in an ethanol administered group than in the Ganoderma lucidum treated group. It was concluded that the hepatic and renal protective mechanism of Ganoderma lucidum, might be due at least in part to its prominent superoxide scavenging effect. Ganoderma extract could protect the liver and kidney from superoxide induced hepatic and renal damages.
Effects of Jiawey Siwu on Rat Activity
Authors: Jian Zhi-Hong , Chen Chien-Chih , Lu Hsi-Yen , Chu Chih-Pang , Ng Yee-Yung , Yu Sue
Published: October 2003

Jiawey Siwu (JS) is a modified formula of Siwu with the addition of Ginseng Radix and Eucommiae Cortex. We studied the CNS effect of JS on pentobarbital-induced hypnosis in ICR mice after acute oral administration. We also investigated the motor activity and exercise performance effects of JS in SD rats after subchronic (12 days) and chronic (8 weeks) oral administration with an activity cage and rotarod, respectively. The duration of pentobarbital-induced hypnesis was significantly decreased in mice after acute oral administration of 0.21, 1.05 or 4.2 g/kg JS. The time of ambulatory activity and time on the rotarod significantly increased in rats after subchronic and chronic oral administration of 1.05 g/kg JS, respectively. These results indicate that JS potentially increased the excitability of the CNS in mice, as well as increasing motor activity and physical endurance in rats.
Sensitization of a Tumor, but not Normal Tissue, to the Cytotoxic Effect of Ionizing Radiation using Panax Notoginseng Extract
Authors: Chen F.D. , Wu M.C. , Wang H.E. , Hwang J.J. , Hong C.Y. , Huang Y.T. , Yen S.H. , Ou Y.H.
Published: October 2003

The aim of the present study was to investigate any sensitization effect of the Panax notoginseng extract (PNE) and the purified Saponin (Rb1) on the radiation response of an experimental tumor (KHT sarcoma) in mice, in comparison with any effects on a normal tissue (bone marrow). PNE at a concentration of 0.1–100 mg/kg produced an increase in tumor radiosensitivity. The senitization effect was maximal at 10 mg/kg and at 30 minutes after injection. Higher dose were toxic to the bone marrow stem cells. Similarly Rb1 at a concentration 0.001 to 1 mg/kg. Higher doses were not toxic to the bone marrow stem cells in this case. Radiosensitization factors were calculated as ratios of D0 (the radiosensitivity parameter), and these were highly significant for the tumor and very similar for both compounds at the doses used, namely 1.18–1.19. There was no significant effect for bone marrow stem cells (sensitization factors of 0.99 ± 0.01 for both compounds). The differential effect on tumor, and the magnitude of the radiosensitization, suggest that further purified or synthetic versions of this extract may be useful not only in vascular-related diseases but also in cancer therapy.
Predicting Traditional Chinese Medicine's Use and the Marginalization of Medical Care in Hong Kong
Authors: Lau Joseph T.F. , Leung Edward M.F. , Tsui H.Y.
Published: October 2003

The study examined the importance of socio-demographic factors, health conditions, health beliefs and health seeking behaviors in predicting the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Hong Kong. A sample of 4,339 respondents was randomly selected and interviewed. Among the 1,651 respondents who had consulted a doctor in the three months prior to the survey, 8.6% consulted a TCM doctor. Besides, 13.5% of the entire sample reported that they had been using TCM drugs frequently or occasionally. Socio-demographic factors, health conditions, health beliefs and health seeking behaviors were all found predictive of the use of TCM. In particular, those who were older, female, new immigrants, unemployed, retired, had chronic disease such as rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, and those taking non-prescribed medication and not seeking treatment when falling ill were more likely to use TCM. Perceived difficulty in obtaining medical services and high medical cost also predicted TCM use. In sum, the findings suggest that TCM users are likely to be those who have been marginalized in obtaining medical care.
SUPERFLUIDITY AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY IN DOUBLE-LAYERED QUANTUM HALL STATE
Authors: WEN X. G. , ZEE A.
Published: October 2003

We discuss and review the basic physics that leads to superfluidity/superconductivity in certain quantum Hall states, in particular the so-called double-layered (mmm) state. In the K-matrix description of the quantum correlation in quantum Hall states, those states with det (K)=0 contain a special correlation that leads to superfluidity/superconductivity. We propose a four-terminal measurement to test the DC Josephson-like effect in interlayer tunneling, so that the issue of superfluidity/superconductivity in the (mmm) states can be settled experimentally.
ENERGY SPECTRUM AND SUPERFLUID-MOTT INSULATOR PHASE TRANSITION OF ULTRACOLD BOSONS IN OPTICAL LATTICE
Authors: LIANG JUN-JUN , LIANG J.-Q. , LIU W.-M.
Published: October 2003

Green function metheod is introduced to investigate ultracold dilute gas of bosonic atoms in an optical lattice which can be described by a Bose–Hubbard model. The superfluid–Mott insulator phase transition condition is determined by the related energy-band structure with an obvious interpretation of the transition mechanism.
AMPLIFICATION OF A BOSE–EINSTEIN CONDENSATE BY AN ATOMIC BEAM
Authors: PARANJAPE V. V. , PANAT P. V. , LAWANDE S. V.
Published: October 2003

Law and Bigelow have proposed an elegant scheme for the amplification of a beam of atoms by utilizing the coupling between the beam and the Bose–Einstein condensate. The condensate, trapped in an optical cavity is subjected to a laser excitation. The Raman interaction is used to transfer the atoms from the condensate to the atomic beam in an energy conserving transitions involving the absorption of a laser quantum and simultaneous emission of a cavity mode. We show that the process put forward by Law and Biglow can be reversed such that the atoms in the beam can be used as a source to increase the size of the condensate. Explicit expressions for the amplification of the condensate are derived.
CHARACTERISTICS OF MESOSCOPIC PHASE TRANSITIONS IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL SIMPLE NANOSTRUCTURED MATERIALS
Authors: YAMAZAKI YOSHITAKE , GLEITER HERBERT , WU CHENXU , ALYOSHIN VLADISLAV , KRASILNIKOVA JULY , KRASILNIKOV ILYA
Published: October 2003

In order to study nanostructured materials, a fundamental framework of the theory and the computer-experimental studies is established. The essential characteristics of the mesoscopic phase transitions and critical phenomena in these materials are evaluated by means of this approach. For nanostructured materials consisting of inert gas atoms, we study mesoscopic phase transitions and critical phenomena by generalizing the renormalization theory and the Metropolis Monte Carlo method. The results obtained by the both methods are reported in two papers: computational results in the present paper and the theoretical results in the paper which follows.
TWO-DIMENSIONAL LOCALIZATION: SYNTHESIS OF OLD AND NEW RESULTS
Authors: SRIVASTAVA VIPIN , KRISHNAN RAISHMA
Published: October 2003

We have addressed the central question in two-dimensional disordered systems: whether all states are localized even at infinitesimal disorder, as has been believed for over two decades but has come in question after recent experiments. We argue that the answer could still be yes since above a certain density the electrons can be treated effectively as non-interacting. Below this density, though the interactions among electrons get weaker they become more and more important as the electron density reduces. This can cause delocalization and produce a metallic phase. Some recent experimental results have been analysed to understand the nature of the newly found metallic phase at low electron-densities, and also the insulating phase at lower densities.
SPIN MODEL EQUATIONS, CONNECTIONS WITH INTEGRABLE SYSTEMS AND APPLICATIONS TO MAGNETIC VORTICES
Authors: BRACKEN PAUL
Published: October 2003

It is shown how the Landau–Lifshitz model can be related to a nonlinear Schrödinger equation. In two space dimensions, the continuous Heisenberg model and more generally, the nonlinear sigma models are described by gauged Cherns–Simons field theories.
SOME FAMILIES OF q-VECTOR FIELDS ON PATH SPACES
Authors: ELWORTHY K. D. , LI XUE-MEI
Published: October 2003

Some families of H-valued vector fields with calculable Lie brackets are given. These provide examples of vector fields on path spaces with a divergence and we show that versions of Bismut type formulae for forms on a compact Riemannian manifold arise as projections of the infinite dimensional theory.
SUPERSYMMETRY AND BROWNIAN MOTION ON SUPERMANIFOLDS
Authors: ROGERS ALICE
Published: October 2003

An anticommuting analogue of Brownian motion, corresponding to fermionic quantum mechanics, is developed, and combined with classical Brownian motion to give a generalised Feynman-Kac-Itô formula for paths in geometric supermanifolds. This formula is applied to give a rigorous version of the proofs of the Atiyah-Singer index theorem based on supersymmetric quantum mechanics. After a discussion of the BFV approach to the quantization of theories with symmetry, it is shown how the quantization of the topological particle leads to the supersymmetric model introduced by Witten in his study of Morse theory.
CHERN–SIMONS THEORY, HIDA DISTRIBUTIONS, AND STATE MODELS
Authors: ALBEVERIO S. , HAHN A. , SENGUPTA A. N.
Published: October 2003

In this paper we present the central ideas and results of a rigorous theory of the Chern–Simons functional integral. In particular, we show that it is possible to define the Wilson loop observables (WLOs) for pure Chern–Simons models with base manifold M = ℝ3 rigorously as infinite dimensional oscillatory integrals by exploiting an "axial gauge fixing" and applying certain regularization techniques like "loop-smearing" and "framing". The (values of the) WLOs can be computed explicitly. If the structure group G of the model is Abelian one obtains well-known linking number expressions for the WLOs. If G is Non-Abelian one obtains expressions which are similar but not identical to the state model representations for the Homfly and Kauffman polynomials given in [19, 21, 31].
WITTEN LAPLACIAN ON PINNED PATH GROUP AND ITS EXPECTED SEMICLASSICAL BEHAVIOR
Authors: AIDA SHIGEKI
Published: October 2003

A right invariant Riemannian metric is defined on a pinned path group over a compact Lie group G. The energy function of the path is a Morse function and the critical points are geodesics. We calculate the eigenvalues of the Hessian at the critical points when G=SU(n). On the other hand, there exists a pinned Brownian motion measure νλ with a variance parameter 1/λ on the pinned path group and we can define a Hodge-Kodaira-Witten type operator □λ on L2(νλ)-space of p-forms on the pinned path group. By using the explicit expression of eigenvalues of the Hessian of the energy function, we discuss the asymptotic behavior of the botton of the spectrum of □λ as λ→∞ by a formal semiclassical analysis.
Errata: "Managing Maintenance Knowledge in the Context of Large Engineering Projects: Theory and Case Study"
Authors: Hall William P.
Published: October 2003

Tenix Defence, one of Australia's largest defence contractors, depends on winning bids and managing contracts for long-lifecycle engineering projects. The ability to capture, manage and deliver project knowledge in explicit formats is crucial to its success. Tenix is moving from a paradigm of traditional paper documents to electronically managing and automating structured knowledge artefacts in a knowledge management framework based on Karl Popper's (1973) three worlds of knowledge. The new technology captures the authors' implicit knowledge that was inevitably lost when working with paper documents and also moves aspects of personal cognition from the subjective and personal World 2 into the objective, virtual and persistent World 3.
An Integrated Knowledge Management Environment: A Study of Counter Terrorism Technologies
Authors: Rubin Stuart H. , Dai Wei
Published: October 2003

This paper investigates the impact of knowledge management on business practice and proposes a software environment that is in line with our vision. It necessarily ties together a plethora of interrelated computing disciplines — including artificial intelligence, database systems, and software development environments. These disciplines are treated from an applications perspective. The counter-terrorism domain was chosen to demonstrate the links between the technologies and corporate requirements as well as to demonstrate the practical values that can be achieved under the current state of development and business culture. In keeping with our vision, it is further demonstrated that the large volume of commercial and corporate data can be effectively used and controlled through the integration of data and knowledge management techniques to meet real-time information services.
On the numerical solution of the diffusion equation with anonlocal boundary condition
Authors: Dehghan Mehdi
Published: October 2003

Parabolic partial differential equations with
nonlocal boundary specifications feature in the mathematical
modeling of many phenomena. In this paper, numerical schemes are
developed for obtaining approximate solutions to the initial
boundary value problem for one‐dimensional diffusion equation
with a nonlocal constraint in place of one of the standard
boundary conditions. The method of lines (MOL) semidiscretization
approach is used to transform the model partial differential
equation into a system of first‐order linear ordinary differential
equations (ODEs). The partial derivative with respect to the space
variable is approximated by a second‐order finite‐difference
approximation. The solution of the resulting system of first‐order
ODEs satisfies a recurrence relation which involves a matrix
exponential function. Numerical techniques are developed by
approximating the exponential matrix function in this recurrence
relation. We use a partial fraction expansion to compute the
matrix exponential function via Pade approximations, which is
particularly useful in parallel processing. The algorithm is
tested on a model problem from the literature.
Magnetohydrodynamic flow due to noncoaxial rotations of aporous disk and a fourth‐grade fluid at infinity
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Wang Yongqi
Published: October 2003

The governing equations for the unsteady flow of a uniformly
conducting incompressible fourth‐grade fluid due to noncoaxial
rotations of a porous disk and the fluid at infinity are
constructed. The steady flow of the fourth‐grade fluid subjected to
a magnetic field with suction/blowing through the disk is
studied. The nonlinear ordinary differential equations resulting
from the balance of momentum and mass are discretised by a
finite‐difference method and numerically solved by means of an
iteration method in which, by a coordinate transformation, the
semi‐infinite physical domain is converted to a finite
calculation domain. In order to solve the fourth‐order nonlinear
differential equations, asymptotic boundary conditions at infinity
are augmented. The manner in which various material parameters
affect the structure of the boundary layer is delineated. It is
found that the suction through the disk and the magnetic field
tend to thin the boundary layer near the disk for both the
Newtonian fluid and the fourth‐grade fluid, while the blowing
causes a thickening of the boundary layer with the exception of
the fourth‐grade fluid under strong blowing. With the increase of
the higher‐order viscosities, the boundary layer has the tendency
of thickening.
Inflammation-Sensitive Plasma Proteins and Incidence of Myocardial Infarction in Men With Low Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Engström Gunnar , Stavenow Lars , Hedblad Bo , Lind Peter , Tydén Patrik , Janzon Lars , Lindgärde Folke
Published: October 2003

Objective—

Myocardial infarction (MI) is sometimes experienced by individuals without any traditional risk factor. This prospective study explored whether incidence of MI in nonsmoking, nondiabetic men with normal blood pressure and serum lipids is related to inflammation-sensitive plasma proteins (ISPs).

Methods and Results—

Five ISPs (α1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, fibrinogen, orosomucoid) were analyzed in 6075 men, 47±3.6 years old. A low-risk group (no traditional risk factor, n=1108) and a high-risk group (≥2 major risk factors, n=1011) were defined. Incidence of MI (n=227) was monitored over 18.1±4.3 years of follow-up. In the low-risk group, the age-adjusted relative risks (RRs) were 1.00 (reference), 1.9 (95% CI, 0.8 to 4.2), 1.8 (95% CI, 0.6 to 5.4), and 2.9 (95% CI, 1.05 to 8.1), respectively, for men with 0, 1, 2 and ≥3 ISPs in the top quartile (trend:
P
=0.03). In this group, the increased risk was observed only after ≥10 years of follow-up. In the high-risk group, the age-adjusted RRs were 1.00, 1.4 (95% CI, 0.9 to 2.2), 1.9 (95% CI, 1.2 to 3.1), and 2.0 (95% CI, 1.3 to 3.1), respectively, for men with 0, 1, 2, and ≥3 ISPs in the top quartile (trend:
P
=0.0004).

Conclusion—

Incidence of MI in nonsmoking, nondiabetic men with normal blood pressure and lipids was related to ISPs. The causes for this relationship remain to be explored.
Reduction of Infarct Size and Prevention of Cardiac Rupture in Transgenic Mice Overexpressing FrzA
Authors: Barandon Laurent , Couffinhal Thierry , Ezan Jérome , Dufourcq Pascale , Costet Pierre , Alzieu Philippe , Leroux Lionel , Moreau Catherine , Dare Danièle , Duplàa Cécile
Published: October 2003

Background—

FrzA/sFRP-1, a secreted, frizzled-related protein and antagonist for the wnt/frizzled pathway, is expressed in the heart and vessels during mouse embryogenesis and adulthood. FrzA is involved in cell cycle control of vascular cells and angiogenesis. We assessed the hypothesis that FrzA could control the healing process after myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods and Results—

We demonstrated an upregulation of sFRP-1 and distinct wnt and fz member expression after MI. We established transgenic (Tg) mice that overexpress FrzA under a cytomegalovirus promoter and developed a model of MI by coronary artery ligation. FrzA reduced cardiac rupture after MI in Tg (6.5% versus 26.4% in controls; n=165,
P
<0.01). MI was smaller in Tg at each time point (18±10.8% of left ventricular circumference versus 30±14.2% in controls at day 30;
P
<0.001). Similar results were found in cryolesion-induced MI. Cardiac function was improved in Tg mice (3800±370 mm Hg/s
dP/dt
max
versus 2800±840 in controls; −2800±440
dP/dt
min
versus −1800±211 in controls at day 15;
P
<0.001). Early leukocyte infiltration had decreased in Tg mice during the first week. Apoptotic index was decreased by 50% in Tg mice at day 7. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and −9 activity was reduced in Tg mice at day 4, and collagen deposition in the scar was increased in Tg mice. Capillary density in the scar was higher in Tg mice (290±103 vessels/mm
2
versus 104±43 in controls at day 15;
P
<0.001). Vessels were more muscularized, and mean lumen area was 3-fold higher in Tg animals.

Conclusions—

Overexpression of FrzA, through direct or indirect interaction with different phases of infarct healing, reduced infarct size and improved cardiac function.
Inactivation of Macrophage Scavenger Receptor Class B Type I Promotes Atherosclerotic Lesion Development in Apolipoprotein E–Deficient Mice
Authors: Zhang Wenwu , Yancey Patricia G. , Su Yan Ru , Babaev Vladimir R. , Zhang Yuomin , Fazio Sergio , Linton MacRae F.
Published: October 2003

Background—

Scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) is expressed in macrophages, where it has been proposed to facilitate cholesterol efflux. However, direct evidence that the expression of macrophage SR-BI is protective against atherosclerosis is lacking. In this study, we examined the in vivo role of macrophage SR-BI in atherosclerotic lesion development in the apolipoprotein (apo) E–deficient mouse model.

Methods and Results—

ApoE-deficient mice with (n=16) or without (n=15) expression of macrophage SR-BI were created by transplanting lethally irradiated apoE-deficient mice with bone marrow cells collected from SR-BI
−/−
apoE
−/−
mice or SR-BI
+/+
apoE
−/−
mice. The recipient mice were fed a chow diet for 12 weeks after transplantation for analysis of atherosclerosis. Quantification of macrophage SR-BI mRNA by real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction indicated successful engraftment of donor bone marrow and inactivation of macrophage SR-BI in recipient mice reconstituted with SR-BI
−/−
apoE
−/−
bone marrow. There were no significant differences in plasma lipid levels, lipoprotein distributions, and HDL subpopulations between the 2 groups. Analysis of the proximal aorta demonstrated an 86% increase in mean atherosclerotic lesion area in SR-BI
−/−
apoE
−/−
→ apoE
−/−
mice compared with SR-BI
+/+
apoE
−/−
→ apoE
−/−
mice (109.50±18.08 versus 58.75±9.58×10
3
μm
2
; mean±SEM,
P
=0.017). No difference in cholesterol efflux from SR-BI
+/+
apoE
−/−
or SR-BI
−/−
apoE
−/−
macrophages to HDL or apoA-I discs was detected.

Conclusions—

Expression of macrophage SR-BI protects mice against atherosclerotic lesion development in apoE-deficient mice in vivo without influencing plasma lipids, HDL subpopulations, or cholesterol efflux. Thus, macrophage SR-BI plays an antiatherogenic role in vivo, providing a new therapeutic target for the design of strategies to prevent and treat atherosclerosis.
Comparison of the Associations of Apolipoprotein B and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol With Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study (IRAS)
Authors: Williams Ken , Sniderman Allan D. , Sattar Naveed , D’Agostino Ralph , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Haffner Steven M.
Published: October 2003

Background—

Risk factors for vascular disease include obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, dysglycemia, insulin resistance, inflammation, thrombosis, and subclinical atherosclerosis. This study compares the associations of apolipoprotein B (apoB) and LDL cholesterol (LDLC) with a wide array of measures of these risk factors.

Methods and Results—

In 1522 individuals in the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study, anthropometric measures and measures of lipids, apoB, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), fasting and postglucose load glucose and insulin concentrations, and carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) were taken and insulin sensitivity was determined by frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test. There were significant differences in measures of abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, and thrombosis between subjects with elevated apoB but normal LDLC versus those with elevated LDLC but normal apoB. In each statistically significant comparison, the elevated-apoB group had higher associated risk than the elevated-LDLC group. Moreover, apoB is highly significantly (
P
<0.0001) correlated with each measure in the direction of higher risk, whereas LDLC was significantly correlated (
P
<0.05) only with blood pressure, triglyceride, fibrinogen, and C-reactive protein. After further adjustment for LDLC, apoB correlations remained significant, whereas several LDLC correlations adjusted for apoB became significant in the direction of lower risk.

Conclusions—

Elevated apoB is more strongly associated than LDLC with other risk factors, including measures in the National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines for lipid treatment and other more recently established risk factors. This may provide new insight into why apoB is a better predictor of vascular risk than LDLC.
Feasibility and Safety of Pulmonary Vein Isolation Using a New Mapping and Navigation System in Patients With Refractory Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Arentz Thomas , von Rosenthal Jörg , Blum Thomas , Stockinger Jochem , Bürkle Gerd , Weber Reinhold , Jander Nikolaus , Neumann Franz Josef , Kalusche Dietrich
Published: October 2003

Background—

Ostial pulmonary vein (PV) isolation by radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation can cure patients with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, this procedure carries the risk of PV stenosis. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a new mapping and navigation technique using a multipolar basket catheter (BC) for PV isolation in patients with refractory AF and to analyze its safety with regard to PV stenosis at long-term follow-up.

Methods and Results—

We studied 55 patients (mean age, 53±11 years; 40 male) with drug-refractory AF (paroxysmal, n=37; persistent, n=18). A 64-pole BC was placed transseptally into each of the accessible PVs. By use of a nonfluoroscopic navigation system, the ablation catheter was guided to the BC electrodes at the PV ostium, with earliest activation during sinus rhythm. RF was delivered by use of maximum settings of temperature at 50°C and power at 30 W. The end point of the procedure was the complete elimination of all distal and fragmented ostial PV potentials. Of 165 targeted veins, 163 were successfully isolated with a mean RF duration of 720±301 seconds per vein. At 1-year follow-up, 62% of the patients were in sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic drugs. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography revealed 2 PV stenoses of >25% out of 165 treated vessels.

Conclusions—

The use of a multipolar BC allowed effective and safe PV isolation by combining 3D mapping and navigation. At 1-year follow-up, 62% of the patients were in sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic drugs, and the incidence of relevant diameter reduction of the treated PVs was 1.2%.
Smooth Muscle Cells in Human Atherosclerotic Plaques Express the Fractalkine Receptor CX
3
CR1 and Undergo Chemotaxis to the CX
3
C Chemokine Fractalkine (CX
3
CL1)
Authors: Lucas Andrew D. , Bursill Christina , Guzik Tomasz J. , Sadowski Jerzy , Channon Keith M. , Greaves David R.
Published: October 2003

Background—

Chemokines are important mediators of inflammatory cell recruitment that play a significant role in atherosclerosis. Fractalkine (CX
3
CL1) is an unusual membrane-bound chemokine that mediates chemotaxis through the CX
3
CR1 receptor. Recently, functional polymorphisms in the human CX3CR1 gene have been described that are associated with coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results—

We investigated the expression of the CX
3
C chemokine fractalkine and its receptor CX
3
CR1 in human coronary artery plaques by immunocytometry. We show that a subset of mononuclear cells expresses high levels of fractalkine in human coronary atherosclerotic plaques and that smooth muscle cells within the neointima express the fractalkine receptor CX
3
CR1. There is a positive correlation between the number of fractalkine-expressing cells and the number of CX
3
CR1-positive cells in human atherosclerotic plaques (
r
=0.70, n=15 plaques). Furthermore, we demonstrate that cultured vascular smooth muscle cells express the CX
3
CR1 receptor and undergo chemotaxis to fractalkine that can be inhibited by G protein inactivation by pertussis toxin.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that in human atherosclerosis, fractalkine, rather than mediating inflammatory cell recruitment, can act as a mediator of smooth muscle cell migration.
Antibodies to Oxidized Low-Density Lipoproteins and Angiographically Assessed Coronary Artery Disease in White Patients
Authors: Rossi Gian Paolo , Cesari Maurizio , De Toni Renzo , Zanchetta Mario , Maiolino Giuseppe , Pedon Luigi , Ganzaroli Chiara , Maiolino Pietro , Pessina Achille C.
Published: October 2003

Background—

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can be oxidatively modified by reactive oxygen species, thus generating oxLDL. The latter induce formation of specific antibodies (oxLDLAb), which are detectable in patients with atherosclerosis, in which they might play a pathogenic or a protective role. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association of antibodies with oxidized LDLs (oxLDL) (oxLDLAbs) with coronary artery disease (CAD) and acute coronary syndromes.

Methods and Results—

In a cross-sectional study of 529 consecutive patients undergoing quantitative coronary angiography for suspected CAD, we measured the titer of IgG oxLDLAbs by ELISA. With regression analysis techniques, we also investigated the determinants of oxLDLAb titer and the association of oxLDLAbs with CAD severity. We found no significant differences of oxLDLAb titer between groups of patients without and with different CAD severity. The oxLDLAb titer was 18.6 enzyme units (EU) (11.5 to 25.7 EU/mL) (mean, 95% CI) in patients without CAD; 16.8 EU (9.6 to 24.2 EU) in patients with stenosis <50%; and 19.9 EU (15 to 24.8 EU), 17.2 (13.8 to 20.6 EU), and 14.7 EU (12.1 to 17.3 EU) in those with in 1-, 2-, or 3-vessel ≥50% stenosis, respectively. Similarly, no differences of oxLDLAb titer between patients without and with acute coronary syndrome were found. The oxLDLAb titer correlated weakly with aging and with serum total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol and plasma homocysteine levels; however, only age and HDL cholesterol remained significant predictors of the oxLDLAb titer at a stepwise regression analysis.

Conclusions—

The results of this study, which was adequately powered from the statistical standpoint, provided no evidence for an association of IgG oxLDLAb titer with angiographically assessed CAD in whites.
Human Epicardial Adipose Tissue Is a Source of Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Mazurek Tomasz , Zhang LiFeng , Zalewski Andrew , Mannion John D. , Diehl James T. , Arafat Hwyda , Sarov-Blat Lea , O’Brien Shawn , Keiper Elizabeth A. , Johnson Anthony G. , Martin Jack , Goldstein Barry J. , Shi Yi
Published: October 2003

Background—

Inflammatory mediators that originate in vascular and extravascular tissues promote coronary lesion formation. Adipose tissue may function as an endocrine organ that contributes to an inflammatory burden in patients at risk of cardiovascular complications. In this study, we sought to compare expression of inflammatory mediators in epicardial and subcutaneous adipose stores in patients with critical CAD.

Methods and Results—

Paired samples of epicardial and subcutaneous adipose tissues were harvested at the outset of elective CABG surgery (n=42; age 65±10 years). Local expression of chemokine (monocyte chemotactic protein [MCP]-1) and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) was analyzed by TaqMan real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (mRNA) and by ELISA (protein release over 3 hours). Significantly higher levels of IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, and TNF-α mRNA and protein were observed in epicardial adipose stores. Proinflammatory properties of epicardial adipose tissue were noted irrespective of clinical variables (diabetes, body mass index, and chronic use of statins or ACE inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers) or plasma concentrations of circulating biomarkers. In a subset of samples (n=11), global gene expression was explored by DNA microarray hybridization and confirmed the presence of a broad inflammatory reaction in epicardial adipose tissue in patients with coronary artery disease. The above findings were paralleled by the presence of inflammatory cell infiltrates in epicardial adipose stores.

Conclusions—

Epicardial adipose tissue is a source of several inflammatory mediators in high-risk cardiac patients. Plasma inflammatory biomarkers may not adequately reflect local tissue inflammation. Current therapies do not appear to eliminate local inflammatory signals in epicardial adipose tissue.