bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal colonization of aspen roots following mechanical site preparation
Authors: Pankuch J M , Blenis P V , Lieffers V J , Mallett K I
Published: January 2004

Fungal colonization of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) roots was examined in boreal mixedwood sites that were mechanically site prepared 810 years earlier for white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) regeneration using disc trenchers or ripper plows. A survey of root wounds determined that Armillaria sinapina Bérubé & Dessureault and Armillaria ostoyae (Romagn.) Herink were both wound pathogens of aspen; however, A. sinapina was more frequently associated with wounds than was A. ostoyae. Armillaria ostoyae was more common on unwounded root tissues. Sixty percent of wounds infected by A. sinapina were not compartmentalized and the likelihood of an A. sinapina infection did not increase with increasing wound size. Pathogenic fungi other than Armillaria were rarely associated with root wounds. Sever wounds were associated with furrows; scrape wounds were located both along and between furrows irrespective of the site-preparation technique (ripper plow vs. disk trencher).
Environmental factors responsible for shaping an open peatland  forest complex on the hypermaritime north coast of British Columbia
Authors: Asada Taro , Warner Barry G , Pojar Jim
Published: January 2004

The relationships between the distribution of plant communities and environmental factors were studied in an open peatland  forest complex of the hypermaritime north coast of British Columbia. The entire vegetation gradient, from open through forested peatlands to upland forest, was primarily explained by slope and minimum level of groundwater table. Environmental conditions in the upland TsugaRhytidiadelphus forest were considerably different from those of the other communities; differences were small among the Sphagnum open peatland, the PinusSphagnum woodland, the ChamaecyparisFauria forest, and the ThujaGaultheria forest. Highest level of groundwater table, conductivity minimum, pH, and dissolved oxygen merely helped distinguish the upland TsugaRhytidiadelphus forest from all other communities. The wet ThujaGaultheria forest could be more vulnerable than the upland TsugaRhytidiadelphus forest to local hydrological changes caused by harvesting. Consecutive intraannual measurements of environmental variables are important in clarifying the relationships between distribution of plant communities and environmental variables, especially for communities with peat accumulation.
Bat activity is low in thinned and unthinned stands of red pine
Authors: Tibbels Annie E , Kurta Allen
Published: January 2004

We investigated the use of red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) plantations by bats in the Manistee National Forest of Michigan. Using ultrasonic detectors, we compared the activity of bats in the interior of stands of red pine and in openings within the stands, both before and after thinning (mean time after thinning = 7 years). Bat activity was more than 20 times greater in small openings within thinned and unthinned stands than within the stands themselves, and bat activity was associated with greater insect abundance in openings. Thinning lead to a significant change in structural complexity, as shown by a 39% decrease in basal area and a 45% decline in tree density, although these changes did not lead to an increase in use of red pine stands by bats. Red pine plantations, even after thinning, most likely are too structurally complex and have low insect abundance, making them a largely unsuitable habitat for bats.
The effects of vegetation control and fertilization on net nutrient release from decomposing loblolly pine needles
Authors: Gurlevik Nevzat , Kelting Daniel L , Allen H Lee
Published: January 2004

This study examined the effects of vegetation control and nitrogen + phosphorus fertilization on decomposition and nutrient release dynamics of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) needle litter. Needle litter was placed in litterbags and left to decompose on the forest floor, and changes in mass loss and nutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, Zn, B, Cu) concentrations and contents were observed at 2- to 6-month intervals for 32 months. Fertilization had no effect on mass loss, while vegetation control resulted in a warmer and drier forest floor and led to reduced mass loss (k = 0.39 and 0.28 year1for fertilization and vegetation control, respectively). Concentrations of N, P, Ca, S, Zn, and Cu in the decomposing litter increased two- to three-fold over the 32 months, while concentrations of K, Mg, Mn, and B declined, increased, or did not change depending on time and treatment. Based on the release dynamics, the nutrient mobility series was as follows: Cu [Formula: see text] N [Formula: see text] S < P < Zn [Formula: see text] Ca < K [Formula: see text] Mn < Mg [Formula: see text] B. Fertilization had no effect on release dynamics; however, vegetation control reduced release of N, P, S, and Zn, and increased release of B. The mineral soil may be the main source of plant available N and P in midrotation southern pine stands based on the slow release of these elements from decomposing needle litter.
Forest soil disturbance intervals inferred from soil charcoal radiocarbon dates
Authors: Gavin Daniel G
Published: January 2004

Forest soil disturbance intervals are usually too long to measure using plot-based studies, and thus they are poorly understood. The mean soil disturbance interval (MSDI) in an old-growth forest on the west coast of Vancouver Island was estimated from radiocarbon dates of charcoal from organic and mineral soil horizons. Two assumptions are required to estimate the MSDI: (1) charcoal from forest fires is deposited within the organic horizon and eventually mixed into deeper mineral horizons by soil disturbances, and (2) the probability of soil disturbance is spatially homogeneous and affected only by the time since the last fire or the last soil disturbance. The MSDI is then estimated by the rate at which the proportion of undisturbed sample sites (determined by the proportion of sites with charcoal from the most recent fire in the organic horizon) decreases with increasing time since the last fire. Soil charcoal evidence of time since fire was determined at 83 sites using 141 radiocarbon dates. The estimated MSDI was greater on slopes (ca. 2010 years) than on terraces (ca. 920 years). The long periods between soil disturbances, especially on slopes, are consistent with other evidence from the study area that suggests infrequent tree uprooting is the predominant mode of soil disturbance.
Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP) Restores Immunosuppression Induced by Cyclophosphamide in Rats
Authors: Qian Zhong Ming , Xu Mei Feng , Tang Pak Lai
Published: December 2003

Polysaccharide peptide (PSP) is a protein-bound polysaccharide extracted from an edible mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. Effects of PSP (2g/kg/day) on cyclophosphamide (CPA, 40 mg/kg/2 days)-induced immunosuppression were investigated by determining lymphocyte proliferation, Natural Killer (NK) cell function, IgG and IL-2 concentration, WBC count and the weight of organs after rats were treated with or without CPA in the presence or absence of PSP. The results demonstrated that PSP possessed immunopotentiating effect, being effective in restoring CPA-induced immunosuppression such as depressed lymphocyte proliferation, Natural Killer cell function, production of white blood cell and the growth of spleen and thymus in rats as well as in increasing both IgG and IL-2 production on which CPA did not have significant effects under the conditions of our experiments. PSP can partly restore CPA-induced immunosuppression. Based on our findings and the data accumulated so far, it was suggested that PSP should be considered as an useful adjuvant especially combined with CPA or other chemotherapy in clinical treatment of cancer patients. The mechanism by which PSP restores the immunosuppression induced by CPA is unclear.
Effects of Baicalein on Prostanoid Generation from the Lung and Contractile Responses of the Trachea in Guinea Pig
Authors: Miyamoto Koji , Katsuragi Takeshi , Abdu Parhat , Furukawa Tatsuo
Published: December 2003

Effects of baicalein on release of slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) or leukotriene (L T) from the sensitized guinea pig lung after antigen challenge and tonus of guinea pig tracheal muscles were studied. Baicalein inhibited release of SRS-A from sensitized guinea pig lung after antigen challenge. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed that released SRS-A consisted of LTC 4 and D 4. Baicalein also reduced release of LTC 4 and D 4 from the sensitized lung after antigen challenge. Baicalein relaxed the isolated guinea pig tracheal smooth muscle contracted by LTD 4, carbachol or histamine. However, this compound produced a contraction when the tracheal muscle was contracted by prostaglandin F 2α ( PGF 2α). This contraction by baicalein was abolished by pretreatment with indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. Baicalein elicited a relaxation in the normal non-sensitized tracheal preparation but a contraction in the tissue isolated from actively sensitized guinea pig in 4 among 7 cases. Baicalein also produced a contraction in the trachea pretreated with phorbol dibutyrate and contracted by carbachol, which was eliminated after treatment with indomethacin. The results suggest that baicalein exerts action via, at least, two different mechanisms, the inhibition of releasing SRS-A (LTs) and direct relaxing effects on the trachea. Besides, baicalein seems to produce contraction under certain conditions, which may involve stimulation of the cyclooxygenase pathway.
Effects of Poncirus trifoliata on Type I Hypersensitivity Reaction
Authors: Lee Young Mi , Kim Chang Young , Kim Youn Chul , Kim Hyung Min
Published: December 2003

A study was carried out to examine the effect of an aqueous extract from immature fruit of Poncirus trifoliata L. (Rutaceae) (PTIFE) on the type I hypersensitivity reaction. Forty-eight hour PCA (passive cutaneous anaphylaxis) in rats was significantly inhibited by the oral administration of PTIFE (200 mg/kg). It also inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) induced by mouse anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP)-lgE and dinitrophenyl-human serum albumin (DNP-HSA). These results suggest that PTIFE has anti-allergic action against the type I hypersensitivity reaction.
Preventive Effect of Oren-gedoku-to (Huanglian-Jie-Du-Tang) Extract on Progression of Carbon tetrachloride-induced Acute Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Ohta Yoshiji , Sasaki Emi , Nishida Keiji , Hayashi Takahiro , Nagata Minoru , Ishiguro Isao
Published: December 2003

The effect of oral administration of Oren-gedoku-to (Huanglian-Jie-Du-Tang) extract (TJ-15) on the progression of acute liver injury was examined in rats intoxicated with carbon tetrachloride ( CCl 4). When TJ-15 at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) was administered to male Wistar rats aged seven weeks 6 hours after i.p. injection of CCl 4 (1.0 ml/kg b.w.), an apparent liver injury occurred. Significant prevention against the progression of liver injury was found 24 hours after the injection judging from the activities of serum transaminases and other indices of liver cell damage. An increase in lipid peroxide level and decreases in reduced glutathione level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity occurred in the liver at 6 and 24 hours after CCl 4 injection. Serum SOD activity increased 24 hours after CCl 4 injection. Post-oral TJ-15 administration significantly ameliorated all these changes found at 24 hours after CCl 4 injection. An increase in liver triglyceride level and a decrease in serum triglyceride level also occurred 6 and 24 hours after CCl 4 injection. Post-oral TJ-15 administration prevented the increase in liver triglyceride level at 24 hours after CCl 4 injection. Although the activity of liver tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), a marker of the inhibition of liver protein synthesis by CCl 4, decreased 6 and 24 hours after injection of the toxicant, post-oral TJ-15 administration had no effect on this decrease in TDO activity at 24 hours after the injection. These results indicate that oral TJ-15 administration can prevent the progression of acute liver injury in CCl 4-injected rats, and suggest that this prevention could be due to the action of TJ-15 to scavenge free radicals formed in the liver and to inhibit triglyceride accumulation in the liver.
Efficacy of Toki-shigyakuka-gosyuyu-syokyo-to (Danggui-Sini-Jia-Wuzhuyu-Shengjiang-Tang) on Peripheral Circulation in Autonomic Disorders
Authors: Kanai Shigeyuki , Okano Hideyuki , Abe Hiroko
Published: December 2003

To investigate the improvement in peripheral circulation in autonomic disorders, we monitored skin temperature in the tails of rats by thermography before and after the oral administration of boiled water extract of Toki-shigyakuka-gosyuyu-syokyo-to (TSGS-to). Oral administration of this extract elevated the temperature, calculated as the calories of radiant heat in the rat tail 5-10 min after uptake. The temperature elevation remained stable for more than 20 min. Calories were significantly reduced 60 min after uptake and almost returned to initial values 90 min later. Some of the constituent herbs, especially Angelicae radix, Cinnamomi cortex, Evodiae fructus, and Zingiberis rhizoma, appeared to be active in relieving hypothermia.
Effects of Guan-mu-tong (Caulis aristolochiae manshuriensis) in Combination with other Natural Products on Normal and Preneoplastic Mammary Gland Growth in Mice
Authors: Nagasawa Hiroshi , Wu Guojuan , Sakamoto Shinobu , Yamamoto Kazutoshi , Inatorni Hideo
Published: December 2003

The effects of combined treatment with Guan-mu-tong (Gmt: Caulis aristolochiae manshuriensis) and other major components of Shi-Liu-Wei-Liu-Qi-Yin (SLWLQY), a Chinese herbal medicine prescribed for breast diseases, on normal and preneoplastic mammary gland growth were investigated. SHN virgin mice were divided into 6 groups at 3 months of age and treated with the samples in drinking water as shown in Table 2 for 8 weeks. Each sample was extracted repeatedly with hot water, dried in vacuo and dissolved with tap water at the concentration indicated in Table 2. Normal and preneoplastic mammary gland growth and thymidylate synthetase activity in the mammary gland were inhibited by Gmt alone; but its effect was affected slightly by the further addition of other products. However, the excretion of urinary components, which is abnormally low in SHN mice, was gradually enhanced by the addition of other products to Gmt and was highest by SLWLQY. The elongated estrous/metestrous stage of the estrous cycle induced by Gmt+Zq was returned to the control level by further addition of other products and by SLWLQY. The normal parameters in this strain during this age period such as body weight change, food and water intake and immune system were affected little by all treatments. All these findings strongly suggest that one of the principles of prescribing Chinese herbal medicines is to normalize the physical conditions, which, in turn, contributes to therapy and protection from diseases.
Inhibition Effect of Shengma-Gegen-Tang on Measles Virus in Vero Cells and Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Huang Shang Pang , Shieh Gow Jen , Lee Lili , Teng Hwa Jen , Kao Shang Tei , Lin Jaung Geng
Published: December 2003

Shengma-Gegen-Tang has long been used against measles virus in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) as well as in Vero cells. One hundred μg/ml Shengma-Gegen-Tang in PBMC displays significant anti-measles activity, whereas the same concentration in Vero cells does not. After eight days of infection, the release of virus is significantly suppressed by Shengma-Gegen-Tang in the case of PBMC. In addition, Shengma-Gegen-Tang has a selective stimulation to the secretion of cytokine TNF-α in PBMC. Time kinetic analysis indicated that the stimulation of secretion was rapid and could be detected only 2 hrs following the treatment of the PBMC. It rose to an optimal level in 8-12 hrs. These findings suggest that the magnification of anti-measles virus activity of this agent is lymphocyte dependent and may well be mediated by TNF-α.
Experimental Evidence of a Plant Meridian System IV.
Authors: Hou T. Z. , Li M. D.
Published: December 2003

We have shown previously that plants exhibit functional characteristics similar to the meridian system in humans and animals, such as high potential and low electrical resistance, high temperature, and spontaneous sound production. Here we will show the effect of acupuncture on plants. When plants of Phaseolus vulgaris L. pole bean (cv. Kentucky wonder) and bush bean (cv. Slenderette) were subjected to acupuncture by inserting two needles into opposite sides of the stem of the unifoliolate buds, it was found that acupuncture strengthened the growth and development of the plants. Two repeated experiments showed that the mean net photosynthesis rate of plants subjected to acupuncture increased about 20.5%, the mean transpiration 27.2%, the growth and total length of internodes 22.5%, and the total dry weight of shoots from the cotyledon to the apex 22.9%, in comparisons with control plants under the same growing conditions. In addition, treated plants flowered three days earlier and had 14.4% more fruit than the untreated control plants. Thus, acupuncture may serve as a viable technique for increasing yield in agricultural plants.
Effects of Siegesbeckia pubescens on Immediate Hypersensitivity Reaction
Authors: Kim Hyung Min
Published: December 2003

This study was carried out to examine the effect of an aqueous extract from Siegesbeckia pubescens (Compositae) (SPAE) on immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated immediate hypersensitivity reaction. Forty-eight hours passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats was significantly inhibited by oral administration of SPAE (100 μg/g). It also inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells induced by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP)-IgE and DNP-human serum albumin. The data indicate that SPAE has antiallergic activity, and that its action may be due to inhibition of histamine release from mast cells.
Studies on the Antimicrobial Activity of Juglans regia
Authors: Alkhawajah Abdulaziz M.
Published: December 2003

Juglans regia L. bark is used in some countries as a toothbrush and as a dye for coloring the lips for cosmetic purposes. Its extract showed a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity in a dose dependent manner. It inhibited the growth of several species of pathogenic micro-organisms representing Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans), Gram-negative bacteria (Esherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and a pathogenic yeast (Candida albicans). The extract has either synergistic or additive action when tested with a wide range of antibacterial drugs. It also increased the pH of saliva. Thus, brushing the teeth with this bark may improve oral hygiene, prevent plaque and caries formation, and reduce the incidence of gingival and periodontal infections.
Antifungal Activity of Plant Extracts against Candida albicans
Authors: Perez Cristina , Suarez Cristina
Published: December 2003

In previous papers, we reported the antimicrobial activity of plants used in Argentine folk medicine against different micro-organisms. The present study deals with the screening of 11 of these plants against the opportunistic pathogen fungus Candida albicans. Aqueous extracts 6% p/v (6 mg dry plant per 100 ml of water) were checked against fungus cultures by the agar-well diffusion method. Five extracts showed antifungal activity.
The Effects of Ninjinyoeito on Cultured Venous Endothelial Cells
Authors: Uchiyama Yasuhiko , Nakajima Shigekatsu , Yoshida Kazuo , Mizukawa Hiromi , Haruki Eiichi
Published: December 2003

The effects of Ninjinyoeito on endothelial cells in human umbilical veins was examined. We found that Ninjinyoeito accelerates the inhibition and decomposition of Endothelin-l production, which is known to constrict veins and raise blood pressure, and promote the synthesis of nitric oxicide which is known to have a vasophypotonic effect. We also found that Ninjinyoeito accelerates Interleukin 1-β (IL-1β) production. IL-1β is a substance that plays important roles in maintaining the homeostasis of living organisms in immunity and inflammation, for example, as well as in the production of tissue plasminogen activators, which are known to have an anti-thrombotic effect on blood coagulation and on the fibrinolysis mechanism. Thus, it is suggested that Ninjinyoeito is effective in accelerating the physiological functions of human vein endothelial cells in vitro.
Analgesic Effect of a Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea - A Double-blind Study
Authors: Kotani Naoki , Oyama Tsutomu , Sakai Ichiro , Hashimoto Hiroshi , Muraoka Masatoshi , Ogawa Yasuhiro , Matsuki Akitomo
Published: December 2003

We evaluated the analgesic effect of Toki-shakuyaku-san (TSS) in women who had a combination of "deficiency," of "Yin," "cold," and "stagnated blood" syndromes, and were suffering from dysmenorrhea. A diagnostic scoring system was used for determination of these conditions. We treated patients with either TSS or placebo during 2 menstrual cycles with a double-blind technique, and we followed them for 2 additional cycles. A significant alleviation of dysmenorrhea was observed in patients treated with TSS as compared to those treated with placebo. Our results suggest that TSS is effective for treatment of dysmenorrhea in patients with the above-mentioned conditions.
Computerized Color Analysis of "Xue Yu" (Blood Stasis) in the Sublingual Vein Using a New Technology
Authors: Takeichi Masashi , Sato Takeshi
Published: December 2003

Computer-assisted image analyses were performed on the color of the tongues of 95 medical students to enhance the accuracy and objectivity of tongue inspections for determining blood stasis. Areas from the sublingual vein were selected and subjected to image analysis. A slide scanner was used to digitize the color slides, and the digital information was transmitted to a personal computer for subsequent feature extraction and analysis. A comparison was then made between the computerized data using Red-Green-Blue color components, and inspection with the naked eye based on the diagnostics of traditional Chinese medicine. The results obtained suggest that there are statistically significant correlations between visual analyses and the computerized normalized R value (F value; 3.397, p<0.05). The examination of sublingual veins with the naked eye showed the validity of computer-assisted image analysis. This analysis may provide a potential solution to the demand for a sophisticated means of quantitative and qualitative observation of physiological parameters regarding blood stasis, including that for the sublingual vein.
Comparison between Ethnopharmacology in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Brazilian Popular Phytotherapy
Authors: Botsaris Alexandros S.
Published: December 2003

850 Chinese medicinal plants contained in various publications were compared with plants existing in Brazil. The species were classified according to Chinese ethnopharmacological groups, and these were compared to Brazilian ones. According to the principles proposed by the author, 122 species existing in Brazil could be related to the Chinese species (14.35% of the samples). In this comparison, 62.27% of the plants had similar ethnopharmacological use. Comparison between the ethnopharmacological groups showed some similarity in 91.60%. Pharmacological actions disclosed by research also showed concordance with ethnopharmacological uses.
Experimental Evidence of a Plant Meridian System V.
Authors: Hou T. Z. , Li M. D.
Published: December 2003

When the first unifoliolate leaf of Phaselus vulgaris L. cv. Kentucky wonder pole bean was at the expended stage, two needles were inserted into opposite sides of the stem near the unifoliolate bud and left there for the entire experiment. Changes of the period of circumnutation movement at the shoots of Phaselus vulgaris L. pole bean were measured. Results from two separate experiments are reported in this communication. In the first experiment, the mean period of the ultradian rhythms of the horizontal circumnutation movement of shoots was reduced significantly (p = 0.0022) from 124.2 minutes in controls to 116.3 minutes in the treated plants. The average period of the ultradian rhythms of circumnutation movement in the treated and the untreated groups from the second experiments were 96.7 and 132.1, minutes respectively, which was statistically significant (p<0.0001). This study demonstrates for the first time that acupuncture markedly shortens the period lengths of the ultradian rhythms of circumnutation movement of the shoots of the Phaselus vulgaris L. pole bean.
Effects of Electroacupuncture and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Survival of Musculocutaneous Flap in Rats
Authors: Niina Yoriko , Ikeda Kazuhisa , Iwa Masahiro , Sakita Masakazu
Published: December 2003

The effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) were investigated in the musculocutaneous flap in a rat model by measuring the surviving area and blood flow in the flap. Rats were divided into the control group, and groups treated with EA and TENS. Experimental results of this study show that flap survival area did not increase by EA but increased significantly by TENS treatment, and that blood flow in the periphery was significantly larger than that at the base.
Thermal and Antiradical Properties of Indirect Moxibustion
Authors: Chiba Atsushi , Nakanishi Hiromoto , Chichibu Shiko
Published: December 2003

The thermal and antiradical properties of indirect moxibustion stimulation were investigated by thermal qualitative and spectroscopic methods. The thermal effect of indirect moxibustion was mainly dependent on the spacing distance between the moxa and skin, and not on the moxa weight. The radical scavenging activities of moxa and moxa-tar were measured by a photometric absorbance method, chemical reaction with 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. The obtained results indicate that the inhibitory effects of moxa and moxa-tar on superoxide production are due to the radical scavenging mechanism.
A Substance Isolated from Cornus officinalis Enhances the Motility of Human Sperm
Authors: Jeng Hellen , Wu Chao Mei , Su Shuen-Jiing , Chang Wen-Chang
Published: December 2003

The effects of a Chinese herb, Cornus officinalis, on the motility of human sperm was studied. An aqueous extract was prepared from the dried fruits of the herb and used in this study. The crude extract at a final concentration of 0.5 μg/μl in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4) increased sperm motility from 25.8 ± 7.7% to 42.8 ± 10.3% (i.e. 68% increase, n = 7), as determined by the computer-aided-sperm-analysis (CASA) method. The crude extract was fractionated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) into four fractions: Cl , C2, C3 and C4. Their effects on sperm motility were further studied by CASA. Only the C4 fraction showed substantial stimulatory effects on sperm motility. At a concentration of 5 ng/μl, C4 increased the sperm motility from 15.7 ± 3.8% to 34.5 ± 6.4% (i.e. 120% increase, n = 6) by CASA and from 14.9 ± 4.3 to 28.5 ± 8.1 (i.e. 91% increase, n = 8) by transmembrane migration ratio (TMMR) method. This result suggests that C4 is the active component in Cornus officinalis that enhances sperm motility.
The Hepatoprotective and Therapeutic Effects of Propolis Ethanol Extract on Chronic Alcohol-induced Liver Injuries
Authors: Lin Song-Chow , Lin Yun-Ho , Chen Chin-Fa , Chung Chia-Yu , Hsu Shih-Hsien
Published: December 2003

Propolis designates a mixture of gums, resins and balms, of viscous consistency, which are gathered on certain parts (buds and bark, mainly) of vegetables (especially coniferous trees) by honeybees. They bring this back to the hive, where it is modified and mixed with other substances (essentially their own wax and salivary secretions). In this study, the hepatoprotective and therapeutic effects of propolis ethanol extract on chronic alcohol-induced liver injuries were investigated in rats. 3.125 ml of 99.5% alcohol was added to animal's daily diet for four weeks to induce chronic alcohol liver injuries. After sacrifice, serum transaminases (GOT, GPT), triacylglyceride and hepatic triacylglyceride (HTG) concentration were assayed to observe liver injuries induced by chronic alcohol abuse. In addition, the phenomenon of alcohol induced fatty liver were also observed by histopathological changes. Different doses of propolis ethanol extract were p.o. administered three times per day for three days, after four weeks' alcohol administration. It was found that 10 mg/kg of propolis ethanol extract significantly decreased the elevations of serum GOT, GPT, TG and HTG. In histopathological examination, 30 mg/kg of propolis ethanol extract also remarkably decreased the hepatocellular fatty degeneration, apparent as vacuolization, induced by chronic alcohol abuse.
Biphasic Effects of Pu-Chung-I-Chi-Tang on Sedation and Excitation
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Tsuen , Lu Su-Ping , Peng Wen-Huang , Chang Kuang-Hsiung , Pan I-Horng
Published: December 2003

The biphasic effects of Pu-Chung-I-Chi-Tang (PCT) on sedation and excitation in acute treatment or after one-week consecutive treatment were studied. The results indicated that PCT produces sedation in acute treatment and excitation after one-week consecutive treatment. The sedative mechanism of PCT in acute treatment might be due to an increase in serotonergic activity and a decrease in dopaminergic activity. However, the excitatory mechanism of PCT after one-week consecutive treatment might involve the increase in dopaminergic activity and the decrease in serotonergic activity.
The Use of Chinese Herbal Medicine on Experimental Fracture Healing
Authors: Huang Hui-Feng , You Jyh-Sheng
Published: December 2003

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Ru- Yih-Jin-Huang-Saan (RYJHS) and Jie-Guu-Saan (JGS) on experimental fracture healing in rats. Seventy-five rats were fractured in the middle of the left tibia and fibula. They were randomly divided into experimental and control groups and injected with Ringer's solution and applied with Ru- Yih-jin-Huang-Saan externally or fed with Jie-Guu-Saan respectively. The animals were sacrificed at 4, 8 and 12 days after fracture. The contents of hydroxyproline and the synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein were observed. The results demonstrate that groups treated with herbal medicine were more rapidly and thoroughly healed than the control group in respect to collagen formation and bone cell metabolism.
Pulse Spectrum Study on the Effect of Sie-Zie-Tang and Radix Aconiti
Authors: Wang Wei Kung , Hsu Tse Lin , Chiang Yi , Wang Yuh Yin Lin
Published: December 2003

Extracts of the traditional Chinese fomlula Sie-Zie-Tang as well as one of its main components, Radix Aconiti were injected into rats intraperitoneally to observe pressure wave spectrum changes at the caudate artery. We found that Radix Aconiti decreased the C0 (DC term of the pulse), C5 and C6 (the harmonic proportions of the 5th and the 6th harmonic), but increased C2 and C3 (the harmonic proportions of the second and the third harmonic) significantly. For Sie-Zie-Tang, the increases of C2, C3, and C4 were accompanied by the decreasing of C0. The decreases of C5, C6 were small and not significant. The additional ingredients in the formula reduce toxic side effects (arrhythmia or heart failure caused by faster and stronger heart beat) due to Radix Aconiti. For human subjects, low dose Sie-Zie-Tang tends to normalize the Fourier components of the pressure wave. Orally taking the formula elevates the harmonic proportion of the harmonic that is lower than normal, but suppresses the higher one. Our result provides a possible mechanism for heart meridian related herbs. It strengthens heart beats, and normalizes energy distribution to different meridians. The study on Sie-Zie-Tang reveals another formula construction to reduce toxic side effects.
Factors Associated with the Utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine in a Small Town in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong T. W. , Yu T. S. , Liu J. L. Y. , Lee N. L. , Lloyd O. L.
Published: December 2003

The practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is largely unregulated in Hong Kong. Yet, as previous studies have shown, a sizable segment of the population consults TCM practitioners for health problems. This paper uses health care utilization data from a telephone health survey of 847 adult subjects in Tai Po District who had suffered from acute illness in the past month, to examine the profile of TCM users in the District. Women, older residents, unemployed workers, low skill laborers, current smokers and subjects dissatisfied with the quality of private sector clinics were significantly more likely to consult TCM practitioners.
TOPOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF THE HORIZON TEMPERATURE
Authors: PADMANABHAN T.
Published: December 2003

A class of metrics gab(xi) describing spacetimes with horizons (and associated thermodynamics) can be thought of as a limiting case of a family of metrics gab(xi;λ)without horizons when λ→0. We construct specific examples in which the curvature corresponding gab(xi;λ) becomes a Dirac delta function and gets concentrated on the horizon when the limit λ→0 is taken, but the action remains finite. When the horizon is interpreted in this manner, one needs to remove the corresponding surface from the Euclidean sector, leading to winding numbers and thermal behavior. In particular, the Rindler spacetime can be thought of as the limiting case of (horizon-free) metrics of the form [g00=ε2+a2x2; gμν=-δμν] or [g00=-gxx=(ε2+4a2x2)1/2, gyy=gzz=-1] when ε→0. In the Euclidean sector, the curvature gets concentrated on the origin of tE-x plane in a manner analogous to Aharanov–Bohm effect (in which the vector potential is a pure gauge everywhere except at the origin) and the curvature at the origin leads to nontrivial topological features and winding number.
NONCOMMUTATIVITY AS A POSSIBLE ORIGIN OF THE ULTRAHIGH ENERGY COSMIC RAY AND THE TeV-PHOTON PARADOXES
Authors: CHEN SHAO-XIA , YANG ZHAO-YU
Published: December 2003

In this paper, we present a general modified dispersion relation derived from q-deformed noncommutative theory and apply it to the ultrahigh energy cosmic ray and the TeV-photon paradoxes — threshold anomalies. Our purpose is not only trying to solve these puzzles by noncommutative theory but also to support noncommutative theory through the coincidence of the region in the parameter space for resolving the threshold anomalies with the one from the q-deformed noncommutative theory.
EFFECTIVE 't HOOFT–POLYAKOV MONOPOLES FROM PURE SU(3) GAUGE THEORY
Authors: DZHUNUSHALIEV VLADIMIR , SINGLETON DOUGLAS
Published: December 2003

The well-known topological monopoles originally investigated by 't Hooft and Polyakov are known to arise in classical Yang–Mills–Higgs theory. With a pure gauge theory, it is known that the classical Yang–Mills field equation do not have such finite energy configurations. Here we argue that such configurations may arise in a semi-quantized Yang–Mills theory, where the original gauge group, SU(3), is reduced to a smaller gauge group, SU(2), and with some combination of the coset fields of the SU(3) to SU(2) reduction acting as effective scalar fields. The procedure is called semi-quantized since some of the original gauge fields are treated as quantum degrees of freedom, while others are postulated to be effectively described as classical degrees of freedom. Some speculation is offer on a possible connection between these monopole configurations and the confinement problem, and the nucleon spin puzzle.
ALGEBRAIC-NUMERICAL METHODS FOR EVALUATING MULTI-LEG AND MULTI-LOOP FEYNMAN DIAGRAMS
Authors: UCCIRATI SANDRO
Published: December 2003

We present some methods which aim to express multi-leg and multi-loop Feynman diagrams in a form suited for a fast and reliable numerical evaluation, without any restriction on masses and phase-space region of the process.
QUANTUM FORCE DUE TO DISTINCT BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: FÜLÖP TAMÁS , MIYAZAKI HITOSHI , TSUTSUI IZUMI
Published: December 2003

We calculate the quantum statistical force acting on a partition wall that divides a one-dimensional box into two halves. The two half boxes containing the same (fixed) number of noninteracting bosons are kept at the same temperature, and admit the same boundary conditions at the outer walls; the only difference is the distinct boundary conditions imposed at the two sides of the partition wall. The net force acting on the partition wall is nonzero at zero temperature and remains almost constant for low temperatures. As the temperature increases, the force starts to decrease considerably, but after reaching a minimum it starts to increase, and tends to infinity with a square-root-of-temperature asympotics. This example demonstrates clearly that distinct boundary conditions cause remarkable physical effects for quantum systems.
CONDITIONAL INDEPENDENCE STRUCTURES AND GRAPHICAL MODELS
Authors: VANTAGGI BARBARA
Published: January 2004

In this paper we study conditional independence structures arising from conditional probabilities and lower conditional probabilities. Such models are based on notions of stochastic independence apt to manage also those situations where zero evaluations on possible events are present: this is particularly crucial for lower probability.

The "graphoid" properties of such models are investigated, and the representation problem of conditional independence structures is dealt with by generalizing the wellknown classic separation criteria for undirected and directed acyclic graphs. Our graphical models describe the independence statements and the possible logical dependencies among the random variables.
RENEWAL PROCESS WITH FUZZY INTERARRIVAL TIMES AND REWARDS
Authors: ZHAO RUIQING , LIU BAODING
Published: January 2004

This paper considers a renewal process in which the interarrival times and rewards are characterized as fuzzy variables. A fuzzy elementary renewal theorem shows that the expected number of renewals per unit time is just the expected reciprocal of the interarrival time. Furthermore, the expected reward per unit time is provided by a fuzzy renewal reward theorem. Finally, a numerical example is presented for illustrating the theorems introduced in the paper.
MAXIMUM OF ENTROPY FOR CREDAL SETS
Authors: ABELLAN JOAQUIN , MORAL SERAFIN
Published: January 2004

In belief functions, there is a total measure of uncertainty that quantify the lack of knowledge and verifies a set of important properties. It is based on two measures: maximum of entropy and non-specificity. In this paper, we prove that the maximum of entropy verifies the same set of properties in a more general theory as credal sets and we present an algorithm that finds the probability distribution of maximum entropy for another interesting type of credal sets as probability intervals.
SCALAR CARDINALITIES OF FINITE FUZZY SETS FOR t-NORMS AND t-CONORMS
Authors: CASASNOVAS J. , TORRENS J.
Published: January 2004

An axiomatic approach to scalar cardinalities of finite fuzzy sets involving t-norms and t-conorms is presented. A characterization theorem for these cardinalities is proved and it is also proved that some standard properties remain true. On the other hand, properties like finite additivity, valuation property or finite subadditivity depend on the t-norm and the t-conorm.
A NOTE ON ENTROPY OF INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY SETS
Authors: HUNG WEN-LIANG
Published: January 2004

In this paper, two new formulas of fuzzy entropy induced by distances between two intuitionistic fuzzy sets are given. These entropy measures can be computed easily and give reliable results. Some examples are illustrated for the comparison with Burillo and Bustince (1996) and Szmidt and Kacprzyk (2001).
INTERVAL METHODS IN KNOWLEDGE REPRESENTATION
Authors: KREINOVICH VLADIK
Published: January 2004

This section is maintained by Vladik Kreinovich. Please send you abstract (or copies of papers that you want to see reviewed here) to vladik@cs.utep.edu, or by regular mail to: Vladik Kreinovich, Department of Computer Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
OPTICAL NEAR-FIELD INTERACTION ON THE BASIS OF PHOTON WAVE MECHANICS
Authors: KELLER OLE
Published: January 2004

Near-field optical aspects of classical electrodynamics are brought into focus by dividing the electromagnetic field into its transverse and longitudinal vector-field parts. A transverse electromagnetic propagator formalism thereafter is used to study the field-matter interaction in the transverse current density domain, the birth domain of the photon. Subsequently, a brief summary of photon wave mechanics, the first-quantized theory of the photon, is given, paying particular attention to the dynamics in the near-field zone of matter (atom, molecule, mesoscopic particle). In the wake of a discussion of the relativistic transformation properties of the covariant photon field matrix the photon energy wave function is introduced. In a central section, photon wave mechanics and near-field optics are brought in contact, and the photon embryo state, the polychromatic photon concept, and the quantum mechanical theory for the transverse one-photon current density discussed.
METAL-DIELECTRIC COMPOSITE FILTERS WITH CONTROLLED SPECTRAL WINDOWS OF TRANSPARENCY
Authors: GENOV DENTCHO A. , SARYCHEV ANDREY K. , SHALAEV VLADIMIR M.
Published: January 2004

In this report we show the possibility of broadband low-pass filters with windows of transparency in pre-set spectral ranges. Those filters are based on the unique optical properties of metal-dielectric composites near the percolation threshold. In such composites, metal clusters of different sizes and shapes have different plasmon resonances and resonate nearly independently at different wavelengths. All together, the resonant plasmon modes cover a very broad spectral range. Applying the effect of spectrally selective photo-modification, we develop a procedure that creates mid-infrared windows of transparency within the broadband filters. We also investigate the possibilities of making low-pass filters composed of spheroids and conductive sticks with certain distributions of aspect ratios.
DYNAMIC HOLOGRAPHIC GRATINGS IN METHYL RED-DOPED NEMATIC LIQUID CRYSTALS
Authors: RUZAK O. , COLLINGS N. , CROSSLAND W. A. , WILKINSON T. D. , DAVEY A. B. , KHOO I. C.
Published: January 2004

Orientational photorefractivity in liquid crystals doped with azo dye MR crystals is studied. The experiments are carried out with no voltage applied. Dynamic behavior and its dependence on writing beams intensity are presented.

When excited by light, the dye tends to bond to the cell surface. Such an effect is irreversible and leads to the permanent component formation in diffracted signal. This is not beneficial for applications where change of written information is required (OASLMs, dynamic holography, all-optical switching). The process was strongly suppressed and was virtually eliminated for the light intensities used, by the choice of materials for alignment surfaces.
GENERATION OF, AND INTERACTIONS BETWEEN, QUADRATIC SPATIAL SOLITONS IN NON-CRITICALLY-PHASE-MATCHED CRYSTALS
Authors: STEGEMAN GEORGE I. , JANKOVIC LADISLAV , KIM HONGKI , POLYAKOV SERGEY , CARRASCO SILVIA , TORNER LLUIS , BOSSHARD CHRISTIAN , GUNTER PETER , KATZ MORDECHAI , EGER DAVID
Published: January 2004

Experiments are reviewed on quadratic solution generation, and soliton interactions between each other and with a nonlinear interface in non-critical birefringence phase-matched KNbO 3 and periodically poled KTP. Spatially symmetric and asymmetric patterns of multiple soliton-like beam generation were observed and interpreted when only a high intensity fundamental beam is used as the input. The nonlinear reflection of quadratic solitons from a nonlinear interface characterized by a half wavelength shift in the poling structure was obtained. Finally the interactions between pairs of solitons were measured in KNbO 3, including the creation of new solitons in non-coplanar geometries.
OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF TRANSITION-METAL DOPED SPINELS
Authors: HANAMURA EIICHI , KAWABE YUTAKA , TAKASHIMA HIDEAKI , SATO TOKUSHI , TOMITA AYANA
Published: January 2004

Strong blue emission is observed from Ti-doped MgAl 2 O 4, yellow emission from a Mn-doped one and white light emission from a V-doped one. The optimum condition to obtain the strongest emission was studied by changing the doping density and growing atmosphere. The microscopic models for these emission processes are proposed from observation of other optical responses and electron spin resonance spectra both in the electronic ground and excited states.
MOLECULAR NONLINEAR OPTICS: FROM PARA-NITROANILINE TO ELECTROCHEMICAL SWITCHING OF THE HYPERPOLARIZABILITY
Authors: CLAYS KOEN
Published: January 2004

Molecular nonlinear optics describes the nonlinear optical properties of materials at the molecular level. At this most fundamental level, the nonlinear response can be described in terms of molecular parameters, such as number of polarizable electrons, non-centrosymmetric substitution by electron-donor or electron-accepting groups, molecular conformation, position of charge, or degree of charge transfer. We recount the shifts in molecular paradigms for second-order nonlinear optics, largely based on the instrumental possibilities offered to experimentally determine the nonlinear response. We start at the shift from the dipolar paradigm to the octopolar one, initiated by the possibilities of hyper-Rayleigh scattering, and end with the perspectives recently offered by electrochemical switching of the second-order nonlinear optical response at the molecular level.
UNPOLAR AND POLAR HOLOGRAPHIC GRATING RECORDING BY CIRCULARLY POLARIZED LIGHT ON PHOTOANISOTROPIC AZOBENZENE LANGMUIR–BLODGETT FILMS
Authors: BLINOV L. M. , BARBERI R. , CIUCHI F. , DE SANTO M. P. , CIPPARRONE G. , MAZZULLA A. , PALTO S. P. , YUDIN S. G.
Published: January 2004

A comparative study of photo-induced optical anisotropy was carried out on Langmuir–Blodgett films prepared from five different amphiphilic azobenzene derivatives. The anisotropy was induced by a linearly polarized pump beam of an Ar-ion laser at λ=514 nm and monitored by a linearly polarized probe beam of a He–Ne laser at λ=633 nm . Large optical anisotropy up to 0.35 has been induced. Holographic gratings were recorded by two left circularly polarized beams of the Ar-ion laser and time evolution of the first-order diffraction efficiency of the probe beam was recorded in an automatic regime. In such a geometry, the spatial modulation of refraction index reaches 0.14. The experimental data is consistent with a model for a photo-induced collective chromophore realignment in the heterogeneous domain structure of the films studied. The influence of an electric field of the corona discharge on the grating recording process was also studied and polar diffraction gratings have been prepared by a spatially periodic photo-poling process.
NEW POLARIZATION TECHNIQUES FOR PRECISE CHARACTERIZATION OF SECOND-ORDER THIN FILMS
Authors: CATTANEO STEFANO , SILTANEN MIKAEL , KAURANEN MARTTI
Published: January 2004

We present two new techniques with increased precision to determine the second-harmonic susceptibility tensor of thin films. The tensor is associated with the macroscopic structure of such samples but cannot be measured directly. Instead, it must be extracted from experimental results using a theoretical model. The first technique is based on regression analysis of a large number of independent measurements. The second technique relies on the use of two, instead of one, input beams at the fundamental frequency. Both techniques allow for addressing the quality of the theoretical models used to describe the experiment.