bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Width‐independent fast skeletonization algorithm for binary pictures
Authors: Kiyko V. M. , Schlesinger M. I.
Published: March 2007

An effective algorithm of skeletonization for digital binary pictures based on input‐time‐tracing principle and sequential decomposition of input picture into simple parts is described. The proposed algorithm is fast and requires no image memory. Its computing complexity does not depend on the thickness of picture patterns and is determined not by the number of picture pixels but by the essentially small number of horizontal and vertical lines constituting the contour of the picture.
Two‐dimensional operation of a scanning optical microscope using a vibrating knife‐edge corner
Authors: Korpel A. , Samson S. , Feldbush K.
Published: March 2007

We analyze and demonstrate a scanning optical microscope that uses a vibrating knife‐edge corner to provide arbitrary, electronically variable resolution. Implications for general near‐field microscopy are discussed.©1993 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Imaging device that uses the wavelet transformation as the image reconstruction algorithm. II. The L transform
Authors: Letcher John H.
Published: March 2007

An ultrasound‐device image‐reconstruction algorithm has been described previously that uses orthonomal wavelets as the basis of a transform space. The transform algorithms make it possible to analyze the reflected ultrasound signal from a sample to produce a map of one of its internal properties, the acoustical impedance. Conventional wavelets do not exhibit translation invariance, the lack of which ofttimes generates nonzero expansion coefficients for wavelets of lower sequency than the transmitted signal. By a transformation of basis to a set of functions which exhibit a form of translation invariance the aforementioned problem is removed. However, the new functions are no longer orthogonal. An algorithm is described to perform this transformation extremely efficiently. Also described is an algorithm to unsmear the image due to the fact that the transmitted signal may not be a single wavelet but instead is a short sequence (linear combination) of wavelets. The coefficients of the array used to deconvolve the signal are determined by performing a forward wavelet transformation on the transmitted signal itself.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Tomographic imaging of 3D seismic low‐velocity anomalies to simulate monitoring of enhanced oil recovery
Authors: Brzostowski Matthew A. , McMechan George A.
Published: March 2007

Tomographic velocity estimation of a three‐dimensional (3D) anomaly as a function of time is implemented by the simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique (SIRT) using synthetic observed travel times as data. Rays are retraced every 6–7 iterations to ansure consistency between rays and velocities. An expanding steam front modeled within a shallow reservoir is imaged at two points in time using three different survey geometries containing both cross‐well and well‐to‐surface paths. Synthetic data can be used to evaluate and optimize survey design and resolution prior to field data acquisition. Resolution is evaluated by computing point spread functions and can (theoretically) be made as high as desired (up to the limit imposed by wave phenomena and the noise in the data) by increasing the number of independent observations and correspondingly reducing the image voxel size. ©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Analysis of MTF degradation in the imaging of cells in a flow system
Authors: Ong S. H. , Nickolls P. M.
Published: March 2007

The time‐delay and integration method can be used with a charge‐coupled device array to acquire images of cell in a flow cytometer. The loss of high spatial frequency components in images acquired with this technique is studied by deriving the modulation transfer function (MTF) for each of the main causes of image degradation: finite sampling aperture, nonsynchronism between image movement and charge transfer rate, discrete charge motion, transfer inefficiency, and axis misalignment. The system MTF and resolution in the horizontal and vertical directions are then examined.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Video compression for the grand alliance: A historical perspective
Authors: Lebègue Xavier , McLaren David , Saint‐Girons Régis
Published: March 2007

This article outlines the evolution of the Grand Alliance (GA) highdefinition television (HDTV) standard from its divided beginnings among several systems to its final state as the proposed standard for HDTV transmission in the United Stales today. Earlier video compression standards are briefly described, and their influence on the first four all‐digital HDTV proposals is demonstrated. The salient features of each proposed video compression system are high‐lighted, and the more recent MPEG‐2 compression standard is introduced. MPEG‐2 was adopted as the basis for video compression by the GA, a group of the former HDTV competitiors. The formation of the GA is described, and the work of its Video Compression Specialists Group on evaluating modifications to MPEG‐2 is reviewed.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Partial closed‐loop versus open‐loop motion estimation for HDTV compression
Authors: McVeigh Jeffrey S. , Wu Siu Wai
Published: March 2007

Motion estimation is a vital function of video coders that use motion compensated prediction to exploit the temporal redundancy of video signals. The reference images used in the motion estimation process can be either original images (open‐loop architecture) or reconstructed images (closed‐loop architecture). While the closed‐loop architecture is intuitively superior to the open‐loop architecture, closed‐loop motion estimation is more difficult to implement in a real‐time video encoder. A compromise is to perform open‐loop integer‐pel accurate motion estimation followed by closed‐loop half‐pel accurate estimation. In this article we present a comparative study of the performance of half‐pel closed‐loop versus open‐loop motion estimation for coding of high definition television with the MPEG algorithm. Simulation results indicate that on average, closed‐loop half‐pel accurate motion estimation provides slightly better performance than open‐loop half‐pel accurate estimation. This improvement depends on the bit rate of the coded video biststream. For relatively high bit rates, the closed‐loop implementation often provides no improvement, and sometimes an actual degradation of performance. An analysis of why a closed‐loop implementation does not guarantee a better performance is presented.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
The IBM POWER visualization system: A system for HDTV postproduction, and more
Authors: Epstein David A. , McDowell Curtis S.
Published: March 2007

The unique combination of processing power, memory capacity, and I/O bandwidth found in the IBM POWER Visualization System (PVS) makes it an ideal tool for high‐end, format and resolution‐independent, digital postproduction applications. From computer graphics rendering to video editing, rotoscoping, and special effects, the versatile nature of this general‐purpose computer allows it to adapt constantly to the specific tasks required during almost any phase of the postproduction process. In this articles, we first examine the hardware architecture of the PVS with specific attention paid to the different subsystems and peripherals which provide the large computational power and bandwidth necessary to do HDTV editing and effects work. Next, we describe the PVS system software layer which enables application level software to fully use all of the capabilities of the hardware. We then explore a novel on‐line, nonlinear editing and effects environment available for the PVS, which allows HDTV resolution material to be digitally edited and processed at full resolution. Finally, we conclude by describing some of the applications of the PVS which allow it to be used in a variety of other ways.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Development of treatment techniques for radiotherapy optimization
Authors: Lind Bengt , Brahme Anders
Published: March 2007

Over the last decade a large number of new treatment techniques have been developed to allow a true optimization of the delivered dose distribution in radiation therapy. The most important clinical requirement of most optimization techniques is to be able to deliver strongly nonuniform beams on the patient from arbitrary directions. For very complex tumors the number of beams required to eradicate the tumor without severe injury to normal tissues is quite high, to accurately make the three dimensional dose distribution conform to the target volume. For more simple target geometries fewer beams are sufficient, and in many cases with small tumors the classical uniform rectangular beams will do nicely. A number of new treatment techniques, from narrow beam robot mounted linear accelerators through fan beam devices using linear multileaf collimation in rotary gantries, to the most flexible external beam devices with scanned electron and photon beams and/or dynamic multileaf collimation available over the whole treatment field, are now rapidly coming into clinical use.
Functional spectroscopy of brain activation following a single light pulse: Examinations of the mechanism of the fast initial response
Authors: Hennig J. , Janz C. , Speck O. , Ernst T.
Published: March 2007

Localized proton spectroscopy using the PRESS sequence was performed to measure the free induction decay of the water signal in a 2 × 2 × 2 = ml voxel located in the visual cortex after a short light pulse. The experiment was run continuously with a repetition time of 400 ms; the onset of the light pulse was triggered by the spectrometer. The FIDs were measured as a function of the echo time (TE) and the length of the stimulus (TS). The time course showed three different phases: An initial response was observed 400 ms after the onset of the stimulus, which was demonstrated to be mainly a change in the apparent spin density and/or T1 with a minor contribution of T2*. No significant change in T2 could be measured. Changes in the ionic cell environment and/or the subsequent increase in cell size upon stimulation are discussed as a potential mechanism for the observed signal response.
Evaluating conventional FMRI with respect to noninvasive localization of neuronal activity
Authors: Beisteiner R. , Erdler M. , Teichtmeister C. , Moser E. , Deecke L.
Published: March 2007

Conventional functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) allows the measurement of functional cerebral blood flow changes occurring with specific tasks using standard clinical MR systems. However, the spatial relationship between neuronal activity and functional cerebral blood flow changes is not yet known. This article reviews studies which compared the center of neuronal activation (measured by magnetoencephalography) with that of the hemodynamic response (measured by FMRI) using motor and visual stimulation.
Super‐resolution of images: Algorithms, principles, performance
Authors: Hunt B. R.
Published: March 2007

A new facet of image restoration research has begun to emerge in recent years: super‐resolution of images, which we define as the processing of an image so as to recover object information from beyond the spatial frequency bandwidth of the optical system that formed the image. Simple Fourier analysis would indicate that super‐resolution is not possible. Therefore, it is important to reconcile this simplistic view with the existing algorithms that have been demonstrated to achieve super‐resolution. In this article, we consider some of the algorithms that have demonstrated super‐resolution and discuss the common principles that they share which makes it possible for them to recover some of the lost bandwidth of the object. We also consider the question of super‐resolution performance, which is the measure of how much lost bandwidth can be recovered from a super‐resolution algorithm, and how the performance is related to the algorithm principles that allow super‐resolution to occur. We conclude with examples of super‐resolution.
Multiresolution in astronomical image processing: A general framework
Authors: Murtagh Fionn , Starck Jean‐Luc , Bijaoui Albert
Published: March 2007

Multiresolution transforms, including a wavelet transform, are applied simage visualization, image restoration, filtering and compression, × object detection. Variance stabilization is used, when appropriate, cater for common astronomical image noise models. We discuss idation of such methods in the case of astronomical image processing. A range of examples illustrate the effectiveness of this aproach in handling point source and extended astronomical objects.
Convolution connection paradigm neural network enables linear system theory‐based image enhancement
Authors: Blass William E. , Mahan Stephen L. , Chin Gordon
Published: March 2007

A new type of robust numeric solution of one form of the Fredholm integral equations of the first king has been discovered. This discovery has its most immediate and important applications in the deconvolution or deblurring of data acquired using scientific instruments. A solution of this integral equation has very general applications. For example, investigator‐controlled mapping of the instrumental point‐spread function to a more useful form is made feasible. The solution of the linear systems imaging model integral equation results from operations performed on the instrumental kernel, response, or point‐spread function with the direct result being the production of a robust, effective inverse kernel. The effective inverse is robust even in the presence of noise. The generation of the inverse kernel in no way depends on the observational data. Therefore, the image enhancement produced by this method contrasts with other numeric schemes that operate only on the observed data. This is an important distinction. This technique, which uses simple numeric operations, offers the possibility of attaining real‐time data enhancements for observational instruments. The concept of taking control of the instrument kernel or point‐spread function forms the basis of the work presented. Investigations of the application of artificial neural networks to resolution enhancement of Hubble Space Telescope imagery have led to a novel extended instrument paradigm that permits reliable and robust resolution enhancement. In addition to resolution enhancement, the fruits of this investigation have provided a powerful data mapping tool that permits nontrivial, numeric apodization of observed data. The applications of the novel convolution connection paradigm neural network has a great potential for multidisciplinary applications such as resolution enhancement of image and spectral data.
A tale of two proteins: Differential roles and regulation of Smad2 and Smad3 in TGF‐β signaling
Authors: Brown Kimberly A. , Pietenpol Jennifer A. , Moses Harold L.
Published: March 2007

Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) is an important growth inhibitor of epithelial cells, and insensitivity to this cytokine results in uncontrolled cell proliferation and can contribute to tumorigenesis. Smad2 and Smad3 are direct mediators of TGF‐β signaling, however little is known about the selective activation of Smad2 versus Smad3. The Smad2 and Smad3 knockout mouse phenotypes and studies comparing Smad2 and Smad3 activation of TGF‐β target genes, suggest that Smad2 and Smad3 have distinct roles in TGF‐β signaling. The observation that TGF‐β inhibits proliferation of Smad3‐null mammary gland epithelial cells, whereas Smad3 deficient fibroblasts are only partially growth inhibited, suggests that Smad3 has a different role in epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Herein, the current understanding of Smad2 and Smad3‐mediated TGF‐β signaling and their relative roles are discussed, in addition to potential mechanisms for the selective activation of Smad2 versus Smad3. Since alterations in the TGF‐β signaling pathway play an important role in promoting tumorigenesis and cancer progression, methods for therapeutic targeting of the TGF‐β signaling pathway are being pursued. Determining how Smad2 or Smad3 differentially regulate the TGF‐β response may translate into developing more effective strategies for cancer therapy. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 9–33, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Change in a protein's electronic structure induced by an explicit solvent: An ab initio fragment molecular orbital study of ubiquitin
Authors: Komeiji Yuto , Ishida Toyokazu , Fedorov Dmitri G. , Kitaura Kazuo
Published: March 2007

The effect of solvation on the electronic structure of the ubiqutin protein was analyzed using the ab initio fragment molecular orbital (FMO) method. FMO calculations were performed for the protein in vacuo, and the protein was immersed in an explicit solvent shell as thick as 12 Å at the HF or MP2 level by using the 6‐31G* basis set. The protein's physical properties examined were the net charge, the dipole moment, the internal energy, and the solvent interaction energy. Comparison of the computational results revealed the following changes in the protein upon solvation. First, the positively charged amino acid residues on the protein surface drew electrons from the solvent, while the negatively charged ones transfer electrons to the solvent. Second, the dipole moment of the protein was enhanced as a result of the polarization. Third, the internal energy of the protein was destabilized, but the destabilization was more than compensated for by the generation of a favorable protein–solvent interaction. Finally, the energetic changes were elicited both by the electron correlation effect of the first solvent shell and by the electrostatic effect of more distant solvent molecules. These findings were consistent with the picture of the solvated protein being a polarizable molecule dissolved in a dielectric media. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2007
C‐Reactive protein: Current status and future perspectives
Authors: Hokama Yoshitsugi , Nakamura Robert M.
Published: March 2007

This review encompasses all aspects of recent C‐Reactive protein studies. Emphasis has been in the areas of (1) the physical, chemical, and potential functions of C‐Reactive protein; and (2) the pass and recent procedures of C‐Reactive protein analysis relative to simplicity and sensitivity. The responses of C‐Reactive protein in various diseases and its future prospects are also discussed in this review.
Detection of oncogene‐related proteins with site‐directed monoclonal antibody probes
Authors: Niman Henry L.
Published: March 2007

Sequences of oncogenes define related families and provide a large data bank for the production of synthetic peptides. These peptides can be used to produce site‐directed monoclonal antibody probes, which identify oncogene‐encoded and oncogene‐related proteins. The creation and utilization of these probes for clinical laboratory analysis are discussed.
Chediak‐higashi syndrome derived t cell lines manifest giant lysosomal granules, normal natural killer cell, and lectin‐mediated cytotoxicity
Authors: Merino Fernando , Collins Michaeleen , Purtilo David T.
Published: March 2007

Lymphoblastoid T cell lines from patients with Chediak‐Higashi syndrome (CHS) have been established by stimulating lymphocytes with phytohemagglutinin and interleukin‐2. This culture technique produced T cells containing giant granules which are characteristically seen in peripheral blood leukocytes of children with the disease. The granules were lysosomes as demonstrated by their reactivity with acid phosphatase. Functionally, they exhibited normal natural killer cell activity and/or lectin‐induced cytotoxicity. Variations in function of freshly obtained and long‐term cultured T cells are discussed. These cell lines will permit further studies to elucidate defects in lymphoid cells derived from patients with CHS.
Generation and measurement of interleukin‐1, interleukin‐2, and mitogen levels in small volumes of whole blood
Authors: Lyte Mark
Published: March 2007

Whole blood assays that allow simultaneous performance of IL‐1 and IL‐2 production as well as lymphocyte mitogen responsiveness are described. The advantages to these techniques are: (1) small volume of sample required (1 ml of whole blood or less), (2) time required to perform the assays (10 min), and (3) use of whole blood rather than isolated cells in the evaluation of immune competency which is more reflective of the in vivo condition. The techniques described lend themselves to application in the clinical setting.
Quantitative magnesium analysis of mononuclear cells: Electron probe x‐ray microanalysis and atomic absorption spectroscopy methods compared
Authors: Hook Gregory R. , Hosseini Jeanette M. , Elin Ronald J.
Published: March 2007

We quantitated magnesium concentration of pooled human peripheral mononuclear blood cell populations and individual human peripheral mononuclear blood cells by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and electron probe X‐ray microanalysis, respectively. We found no significant difference (p > .1) between the mean cell magnesium concentrations (61.4 ± 10.9 and 51.2 ± 11.2 mmol/kg dry weight) determined by electron probe X‐ray microanalysis and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, respectively. Using electron probe X‐ray microanalysis, we found a 20% variation in magnesium concentration among individual cells. The cell magnesium concentration was independent of cell size, but the cell magnesium content increased with cell volume. We discuss the analytical limitations and artifacts of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and electron probe X‐ray microanalysis for determination of mononuclear blood cell magnesium.
Use of a synthetic peptide‐based elisa for the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis and other diseases
Authors: Geltosky John E. , Smith Richard S. , Whalley Alice , Rhodes Gary
Published: March 2007

A simple enzyme immunoassay has been developed based on measuring antibodies to synthetic peptides corresponding to sequences in the Epstein‐Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA). This assay, which is reproducible, quantitative, and simple to perform and interpret, can be an effective tool to aid in the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Sensitive enzyme immunoassay of human growth hormone for clinical application: A review
Authors: Ishikawa Eiji , Hashida Seiichi , Kato Yuzuru , Imura Hiroo
Published: March 2007

Radioimmunoassay, a useful tool to measure human growth hormone (hGH) in serum, cannot measure very low hGH levels in serum and urine under some conditions. This work reviews recent studies on the development and applicability of sensitive enzyme immunoassay technique for hGH, which can measure very low levels of hGH in serum and urine that have not been measured by radioimmunoassay.
Cyclobenzaprine overdose: The importance of a clinical history in analytical toxicology
Authors: Merigian Kevin S. , Schoeder Timothy J. , Tasset Jerry J. , Pesce Amadeo J.
Published: March 2007

Clinicians have become increasingly dependent on advanced analytical technology to supplement their diagnostic impression of comatose patients. We report a comatose patient who had ingested cyclobenzaprine, penatazocine, and ethchlorvinyl. The cyclobenzaprine was mistakenly identified as amitriptyline. Structurally these two agents are very similar with the exception of one double bond at the central aromatic group. The techniques of conventional thin‐layer chromatography, high‐efficiency thin‐layer chromatography, Toxi‐Lab thin‐layer chromatography, gas chromatography, high‐performance liquid chromatography, EMIT enzyme immunoassay, and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry could not distinguish between the two compounds. An additional investigation of urine specimens from four volunteers who took (1) 50 mg of amitriptyline, (2) 20 mg of cyclobenzaprine, and (3) both 50 mg of amitriptyline and 20 mg of cyclobenzaprine was unable to distinguish the two agents. These results serve to reinforce the necessity of a clinical history taken in conjunction with analytical techniques before identifying potential agents present in various biological material.
Diagnosis of entamoeba histolytica in feces by ELISA
Authors: Oliva Angel , Herion Pascal , Capin Ruth , Ortiz‐Ortiz Librado , del Muro Ruben
Published: March 2007

A diagnostic test for intestinal amebiasis was developed by using an ELISA that incorporated a well‐defined monoclonal antibody specific for a membrane antigen of Entamoeba histolytica. The ELISA was found to be sensitive and quite specific for E. histolytica, since there were no cross reactions with other parasites, especially Entamoeba coli, with which Entamoeba histolytica is often confused. In addition, this test detected not only E. histolytica trophozoites but also cysts. This technique will be of great value in the rapid and accurate diagnosis of E. histolytica in human fecal material.
Detection of cell surface antigens on biopsied human tumor cells using monoclonal antibody‐containing fluorescent microspheres
Authors: Chang Suk K. , Irie Reiko F. , Morton Donald L.
Published: March 2007

An immunoassay using fluorescent microspheres was developed for the detection of cell surface antigens on biopsied human cancer cells. A murine IgM monoclonal antibody 202 that was raised against a human melanoma cell line detected monosialogangliosides having sialic acid‐galactose residue, and was used as an antibody source. Purified 202 antibody was coupled with 1‐μm fluorescent micro‐spheres (Immunosphere) by carbondiimide reaction at pH 4.7–5.5, and the assay was standardized using an antigen‐positive human melanoma cell line. Over 90% of cells were positive when 4 μg antibody‐containing immunospheres were used. The specificity of the reactivity was demonstrated by a blocking assay using uncoupled 202 antibody. The binding activity was stable for 2 weeks after preparation.

Biopsied specimens that had been viably frozen in a form of single‐cell suspension were thawed and purified by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. All of the five melanoma specimens tested were positive (>5% fluorescent cells) with a mean percent of positive cells = 35%, whereas only two of the five nonmelanoma tumor specimens were positive (m = 10.8%). None of the ten noncancer tissues, including skin, liver, kidney, and lymphocyte cells, showed greater than 5% positivity. When these tissues were tested after a 3‐day incubation of the cells in a CO2 incubator, a significant increase in the antibody reactivity was obtained in melanoma tissues (m = 57.8%). In contrast, the antigenic expression of other types of human cancer was changed only slightly (m = 16.2%) within the same period of incubation. Whether the assay is applicable to cell surface antigens of other epitopes of human biopsied tissues or only to ganglioside antigens is currently under investigation.
Effects of pancreaticoduodenal allografts on diabetic testicular lesions in the rat
Authors: Chen Chris , Scott Michael H. , Wolf Paul L. , Moossa A. R. , Haghighi Parviz , Lee Sun
Published: March 2007

Abnormal testicular histology is common in untreated diabetic animals and men. Reversal of testicular lesions with return of function and fertility are seen in controlled diabetes. We investigated the effects of pancreaticoduodenal (PD) allografts on testicular lesions of alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. For periods of l to 15 months, 190 diabetic Lewis rats were allowed to remain diabetic before receiving PD transplants and Cyclosporin A (CsA); 190 other rats were divided into 4 control groups: normal rats with and without CsA, and diabetic rats with and without CsA. Following transplantation, transplanted rats and corresponding controls were sacrificed at 3‐month intervals. Testicles were morphometrically examined. CsA did not affect rat testicular histology. All successfully transplanted rats (n = 97) had complete reversal of hyperglycemia. In the first 6 months following transplantation, the testicular lesions appear to worsen; thereafter, the testicular sizes, tubular densities, and percentages of germinal tissue converge toward nondiabetic levels. This convergence was more marked in the later transplantation groups (≥ 9 months of diabetes before receiving transplantation) than in the earlier groups (<9 months). Overall, these results suggest that PD transplantation may partially reverse testicular lesions. Although pancreas transplantation may initially worsen diabetic testicular lesions, after 6 months, improvement of the lesions can be expected. Thus, an important result from this study relating to the clinical laboratory is that good control of the blood glucose in diabetics causes reversal of diabetic testicular lesions with return of function and fertility. In addition, Cyclosporin levels should be monitored in clinical laboratories in transplant patients to prevent toxic injury to the kidney and liver. However, Cyclosporin did not damage the testis in our study.
Quantitation of Kappa and Lambda Light Chains for the Detection of Monoclonal Gammopathy
Authors: Sun Tsieh , De Szalay Helga , Lien York Y. , Chang Victor
Published: March 2007

This study compared the quantitation of immunoglobulins and light chains with qualitative analysis by immunoelectrophoresis and immunofixation to determine the usefulness of these techniques for the detection of monoclonal gammopathy. Emphasis was on the recently available nephelometric technique for light chain quantitation. Quantitation of immunoglobulins and light chains correctly typed 142 of 159 cases of monoclonal gammopathy. False‐negative results were only seen in 17 cases of minimonoclonal gammopathies (IgG‐kappa, IgG‐lambda, and kappa light chain), in which either the quantitation of light chains or of immunoglobulins, or the kappa/lambda ratio remained normal. Among 92 control cases, abnormal kappa/lambda ratios were seen in three AIDS patients, two cases of polyclonal gammopathy, and one case of hypogammaglobulinemia, but none of them were misdiagnosed as monoclonal gammopathy by quantitation. For clinical laboratories, quantitative assays have some advantages over qualitative analysis because they are less demanding with respect to technique and interpretation, and they allow earlier result reporting and discernment in patients' follow‐ups. Qualitative analysis should be reserved for equivocal cases.
Enzymatic basis for increased expression of GD3 on human melanoma cells derived from metastatic lesions
Authors: Rosenberg Jay M. , Sander Diane J. , Derango Regina E. , Cheresh David A.
Published: March 2007

The expression of disialoganglioside GD3 is examined in human melanoma cell lines derived from primary (WM 115 and WM 75) or metastatic (WM 266 and WM 373) lesions resected from the same two patients. GD3 is demonstrated to be preferentially expressed by the metastatic cell lines relative to their primary cell line counterparts as shown by thin layer chromatography and flow cytometric analysis. The enhanced expression of GD3 in the metastatic cell lines is due to the increased activity of its biosynthetic enzyme, cytidine‐5′‐monophospho‐N‐acetylneuraminic acid:GMS sialyltransferase (GD3 synthetase), as evident from assays of GD3 synthetase activity of these cell lines. The activity of this enzyme in membrane extracts of all 4 cell lines is dependent on protein concentration and time, with peak activity occurring after 30 min. GD3 synthetase in both WM 115 and WM 266 exhibits a relatively broad pH optima between 6.2 and 6.6, is stimulated by Mn2+ and Mg2+, and inhibited by EDTA and Hg2+. Subcellular fractionation indicates that GD3 synthetase activity is localized primarily within the Golgi‐enriched fraction. The enhanced expression of GD3 on the metastatic melanoma cell lines WM 266 and WM 373 relative to that of their primary cell line counterparts cannot be attributed to blocked synthesis of other gangliosides utilizing GD3 as a precursor, but is primarily due to the increased activity of GD3 synthetase.
Enzyme inhibitory homogeneous immunoassay for high molecular weight antigen (II)
Authors: Nishizono Isao , Ashihara Yoshihiro , Tsuchiya Hiromichi , Tanimoto Tetsuji , Kasahara Yasushi
Published: March 2007

A sensitive homogeneous enzyme immunoassay for determination of high molecular weight antigens has been developed using thermophilic dextranase. The conjugate of dextranase with Fab' antibody fragment and insoluble blue dextran was prepared. Ferritin and α‐fetoprotein (AFP) were assayed using the conjugate and insoluble blue dextran. The assay procedure is as follows: sample is mixed with the conjugate and incubated at 37° C for 20 min. After addition of substrate, the mixture is incubated at arbitrary temperature for 30 min or 1 hr. Then enzyme reaction is terminated by addition of the stopper; and following centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 1 min the absorbance of the supernatant is measured. The measurable range of ferritin was from 8 to 200 ng/ml for AFP, it was 80‐3,000 ng/ml. The coefficients of correlation with radioimmunoassay (RIA) for ferritin and AFP were 0.971 and 0.987, respectively.
Detection of cystic fibrosis protein by isoelectric focusing and silver staining in serum, dried whole blood, and cultured fibroblasts
Authors: Vladutiu Georgirene D. , Ryan Thomas , Cropp Gerd J. A.
Published: March 2007

Experimental conditions were developed for visualizing cystic fibrosis protein (CFP) in cultured fibroblasts from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) while improving the visualization of CFP in serum. Serum, whole dried blood and cultured skin fibroblast extracts derived from CF homozygotes, heterozygotes, and normal individuals were submitted to isoelectric focusing (IEF) in polyacrylamide gels using a pH gradient of 7.1 to 9.3 and stained for protein with silver. The results showed an improvement in the separation of bands in the cathodal region over that obtained with a pH gradient of 3.5 to 10 and a better visualization of CFP bands than provided with Coomassie blue. Serum IgG could be removed from the cathodal region by including Protein A on the gel during IEF, thus enabling better visualization of CFP bands. With cultured fibroblast extracts, CFP was only observed when gels were stained with silver. This study presents improved sensitivity of a potential diagnostic tool in CF and its use with cultured skin fibroblasts.
Novel enzyme immunoassay (Immune Complex Transfer Enzyme Immunoassay) for anti‐thyroglobulin IgG in human serum
Authors: Kohno Takeyuki , Ishikawa Eiji , Mitsukawa Tomohiro , Matsukura Shigeru
Published: March 2007

A novel enzyme immunoassay (immune complex transfer enzyme immunoassay) for anti‐thyroglobulin IgG in human serum is described. Anti‐thyroglobulin IgG in human serum was reacted with dinitrophenyl thyroglobulin, and the complex formed between anti‐thyroglobulin IgG and dinitrophenyl thyroglobulin was trapped onto an affinity‐purified rabbit (anti‐dinitrophenyl bovine serum albumin) IgG‐coated polystyrene ball. After eliminating nonspecific IgG in test serum by washing, the complex was eluted from the polystyrene ball with dinitrophenyl‐L‐lysine and transferred to a clean polystyrene ball coated with rabbit anti‐thyroglobulin IgG. The amount of human anti‐thyroglobulin IgG in the complex on the rabbit anti‐thyroglobulin IgG‐coated polystyrene ball was estimated using rabbit (anti‐human IgG 7‐chain) Fab'‐horse‐radish peroxidase conjugate. The present enzyme immunoassay was 1,000–3,000‐fold more sensitive than the conventional enzyme immunoassay, in which a thyroglobulin‐coated polystyrene ball was incubated with serum containing anti‐thyroglobulin IgG and subsequently with rabbit (anti‐human IgG 7–chain) Fab'‐horseradish peroxidase conjugate. By the present enzyme immunoassay, anti‐thyroglobulin IgG was demonstrated in all patients with Graves' disease and chronic thyroiditis.
Monoclonal antibodies potentially useful for diagnosis of squamous cell oral carcinoma
Authors: Saito Ichiro , Fox Robert I. , Walker Leslie E. , Fernsten Phillip D. , Howell Francis V.
Published: March 2007

Five murine monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) (F1/A, F1/B, F1/C, F1/D, and F1/E) were produced that react with different antigenic determinants on the cell surface of human oral squamous cell carcinomas. They each immunoprecipitate a complex containing three polypeptides with molecular weights 38, 80, and 180 kD on SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under reducing conditions. These monoclonal antibodies were used in immunohistochemical analysis to study frozen tissue sections of surgical specimens from the floor of the mouth. Antibodies F1/A and F1/B: 1) detected virtually all malignant cells in 13/14 cases of high‐grade squamous cell oral carcinomas; 2) reacted weakly with nonneoplastic cells in oral biopsies showing severe dysplasia; and 3) did not react with normal stratified squamous epithelium. In comparison, antibodies F1/C, F1/D, and F1/E reacted only with approximately 50% of oral carcinomas, but not with cells in dysplastic oral lesions. These MoAbs were able to sensitize squamous tumor cells to killing by antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) cells and complement‐mediated cytolysis. Our data suggest that these antibodies may be potentially useful for diagnosis and perhaps treatment of squamous cell oral carcinoma.
Detection of platelets in urinary sediments from patients with “Advanced” stages of immunoglobulin a nephropathy
Authors: Tomino Yasuhiko , Ma Yuanchao , Sakai Hideto , Shirato Isao , Ito Kiichi
Published: March 2007

The presence of platelets in urinary sediments was studied by an immunofluorescence method in patients with immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy. The aim of the present study was to determine if the presence of platelets in urinary sediments is correlated with glomerular injuries in patients with IgA nephropathy. Sixteen patients with IgA nephropathy and eight with diffuse proliferative glomerulo nephritis (DPGN) were examined.

This study showed a significant correlation between the number of platelets found in urinary sediments and the severity of glomerular injuries in patients with IgA nephropathy. It was suggested that detection of platelets in urinary sediments is useful in evaluating the degree of histopathological changes and/or prognosis in IgA nephropathy prior to renal biopsy.
Flow cytometric analysis of cytologic specimens in hematologic disease
Authors: Hanson Curtis A. , Schnitzer Bertram
Published: March 2007

Cytologic evaluation of body fluids and fine needle aspirations (FNA) is frequently required in patients with hematologic diseases. In this study we have correlated immunophenotyping and DNA analysis by flow cytometry with cytologic findings and tissue biopsies from 20 patients with body fluid specimens and 5 with FNA. Nineteen of 25 cases, including all FNA cases, had an immunophenotype consistent with malignancy: 12 monoclonal lymphomas, 2 T‐cell lymphomas, 2 T‐ALL and 3 non‐T‐ALL. By cytologic examination, 14 of these 19 cases were positive for malignant cells, 2 suspicious and 3 negative; the latter 5 cases, including 2 FNA cases, had small monoclonal B‐cell populations detected by flow cytometry. Six cases had a benign immunophenotype; cytologic examination was benign in 4 of these and suspicious for lymphoma in 2. Our results show the feasibility of using flow cytometry to evaluate body fluids or FNA and demonstrate that small malignant populations that may be missed by routine cytology can be detected by flow cytometry.
Generation and selection of monoclonal antibodies identifying surface molecules discriminating between fetal and adult fibroblasts
Authors: Funaro A. , Bellone G. , Demonte L. , Alessio M. , Roggero S. , Peruui L. , Cappa A. P. M. , Malavasi F.
Published: March 2007

The present report describes the reactivity of two murine monoclonal antibodies, i.e., CB11 and CB43, the first obtained by using embryonic material as immunizer and the second elicited against a human cell line. These reagents recognize two distinct molecules marking a peculiar differentiation stage on fetallembryonic fibroblasts. The first structure is a single chain of 14.5 kd, the second one a heterodimer of 40‐80 kd. Even if these reagents are not strictly fibroblast restricted, translineage expression does not diminish the medical relevance of the reagents; in fact, they may have application in prenatal diagnostics and amniocentesis testing, in which it is necessary to discriminate between fetal and maternal cells.
Murine monoclonal antibodies binding to the specific antigens of aspergillus fumigatus associated with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Kurup Viswanath P.
Published: March 2007

Four murine monoclonal antibodies, which were produced against Aspergillus fumigatus antigens using hybridoma technology, reacted with different antigenic components of A. fumigarus, and in turn these antigens showed reactivity with the sera from allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). All four antibodies were of IgM isotype. These antibodies reacted against eight antigen preparations from three different strains of A. fumigatus by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELSA). Only two of four antibodies reacted with the antigens in crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE), rocket immunoelectrophoresis, and agar gel double diffusion. In western blot analysis it was found that the antigenic components reacting with the monoclonal antibodies were mostly of the low molecular weight components of A. fumigarus antigens. These components also showed binding to both IgG and IgE antibodies in the sera of ABPA patients, but failed to show any reactivity with sera from aspergilloma patients. Hence these antigenic components may be of diagnostic significance and can be isolated using immunoaffinity chromatography.
Pancreatitis in patients with aids presumptively due to CMV
Authors: Wolf Paul , Reiser Janet R. , Edwin Fellow J. , Haghighi Parviz
Published: March 2007

We have studied two patients who developed pancreatitis and who died of complications of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). From clinical analysis, presumptively, both patients developed CMV pancreatitis as a complication of AIDS.
Humoral and cellular immune responses to salmonella typhi in patients with typhoid fever
Authors: Mastroianni C. M. , Jirillo E. , De Simone C. , Grassi P. P. , Maffione A. B. , Catino A. M. , Vullo V. , Misefari A. , Delia S.
Published: March 2007

Humoral and cellular immune responses to Salmonella typhi have been studied in nine children with typhoid fever. By using dot immunobinding assay, anti‐O‐polysaccharide chain and antilipid A antibody titers have been evaluated during the course of the disease. Anti‐O‐polysaccharide chain antibody titers are lower at the first week and increase up to the third week of the infection. On the other hand, antilipid A antibody levels, which are already higher at the beginning of the disease, progressively augment during the following weeks. Concerning cellular immunity to S. typhi, antibacterial activity mediated by typhoid peripheral mononuclear cells has been determined. Results show this function to be depressed in the initial phase of typhoid, increasing with the time. Together, these data bring new insight on immunity in typhoid patients.
Low circulating T‐helper cells in relapsing multiple myeloma
Authors: Hicks Mary Jane , Durie Brian G. M. , Slymen Donald J.
Published: March 2007

Peripheral blood T‐lymphocyte subsets were studied serially over a 6 year period in 50 patients with monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance and multiple myeloma. The results were correlated with clinical status as measured by responsiveness to treatment (response vs. relapse). To allow assessment of the effects of treatment per se upon T‐lymphocyte subset levels, patients were studied prior to as well as on and off therapy. After adjustment for treatment effects, the significant correlation (P <0.001) between low percentages of T4‐bearing cells and relapse status persisted in all patients. Following multivariate analysis, β2‐microglobulin and m‐protein values correlated with relapse status, but these correlations were not unexpected since these parameters were often used in association with other clinical and laboratory findings to assess relapse status. The most striking finding of this study was the independent correlation between decreasing percent of T4 levels and increasing probability of relapse (P ≤ 0.003). Specifically, in this study the proportion of subjects with T4 levels <20% who relapsed was 67% regardless of other parameters. The strength of the correlation between the T4 values and relapse may provide insight into the biology of relapsing myeloma as well as adding a clinically useful test for disease assessment.
Changes in lymphocyte subset distribution aid in the differential diagnosis of renal allograft dysfunction
Authors: Rees John C. , Lifton Michelle A. , Light Jimmy A.
Published: March 2007

The distribution of selected lymphocyte subset populations in renal transplant patients was used to assist in the differential diagnosis of graft dysfunction. Patients experiencing dysfunction due to rejection showed consistent and significant decreases in relative numbers of CD 8 (cytotoxic/suppressor) lymphocytes. The ratio of CD 4 cells to CD 8 cells in this group of patients was generally greater than 2.00 due to decreases in CD 8 cells. Patients showing graft dysfunction due to viral infections showed consistent and significant increases in CD 8 cells which also bear the HNK‐1 or the HLA‐Dr determinants. Serial monitoring for these dual‐marked lymphocytes on a weekly basis can be of con‐ siderable use in determining the etiology of graft dysfunction. Increases in other “activation” markers, including transferrin receptors, CD 38, and a T cell lineage specific activation antigen (TLiSA) were not specific for rejection; in fact, increases in CD38 were more often associated with viral infections. These studies indicated that lymphocyte subset determinations done on a regular basis can help distinguish graft dysfunction due to viral infections from other causes. The ability to distinguish rejection episodes from stable grafts is less obvious. Although the alterations in lymphocyte subset distribution are not entirely specific, they can distinguish viral infections from rejection.
A knowledge‐based system for automatic interpretation of an analytical profile of complement factors
Authors: Wiener Fred , Groth Torgny , Nilsson Ulf
Published: March 2007

A comprehensive assay to evaluate the complement system includes functional tests of both classical and alternative pathways and immunochemical measurements of C3, C4, B, C1‐INA, and C3d. The purpose of this analytical profile is to screen for rare hereditary deficiencies and acquired abnormalities of complement and to define the activation pathway in cases of complement consumptive processes. Based on several years' experience, a routine was established in our laboratory to report the data to the clinician, together with a computer‐generated interpretive statement. This routine was formulated into a knowledge base by specifying a series of decision rules for each of the complement disorders. After the rules were tested and updated against some 400 complement profile analyses, reasonable analytical comments were produced by the system. This knowledge‐based system for reporting and interpreting complement results offers several advantages: the interpretative work is facilitated and made more reliable; a consistent interpretative comment is generated that is recognized and therefore more meaningful for the clinician; the communication of analytical procedures and policy is enhanced.
Utility of the polymerase chain reaction in detection of gene expression in drug‐resistant human tumors
Authors: Scanlon Kevin J. , Kashani‐Sabet Mohammed
Published: March 2007

Recently, an enzymatic amplification method, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), was modified to amplify a sequence of a drug resistance gene. The PCR assay can confirm data achieved by conventional molecular biology techniques, while requiring less time and fewer patient cells. It can be quantitated for gene expression. The data generated make it possible to analyze m‐RNA expression in tumor samples without being limited to detecting only gene amplification in response to cancer chemotherapy. The PCR assay can be an effective device in the early detection of resistance to chemotherapy.