bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A synthesis of the Air Pollution Over the Paris Region (ESQUIF) field campaign
Authors: Vautard Robert , Menut Laurent , Beekmann Matthias , Chazette Patrick , Flamant Pierre H. , Gombert Dominique , Guédalia Daniel , Kley Dieter , Lefebvre Marie‐Pierre , Martin Daniel , Mégie Gérard , Perros Pascal , Toupance Gérard
Published: June 2003

Tropospheric photooxidant pollution was investigated in detail for the first time over the Paris area during the Air Pollution Over the Paris Region (ESQUIF) project. From 1998 to 2000, 12 intensive observation periods (IOPs) were carried out. They represented various meteorological situations, all leading to strong polluted events over Paris and its surroundings. During these periods, measurements were performed with a new strategy of circular flights around the city, coupled to stations or remote sensing surface measurements. Such data obtained at various altitudes and at different ranges from the city center document the evolution of pollution events on horizontal and vertical scales. In addition, ESQUIF also allowed for the evaluation of models developed in parallel to the project. In this overview, ESQUIF is presented in terms of the set of IOPs. Periods are compared in terms of meteorology and resulting types of pollution episodes. The occurrence of these latter events is discussed in terms of local production and influence of long‐range transport. Using both measurements and model simulations, some important results are highlighted, especially concerning accuracy of boundary conditions, processes of mixing within the boundary layer, surface emissions estimation (including biogenic), and photolysis attenuation. Finally, results from data assimilation studies and sensitivity studies using adjoint modeling and a Monte Carlo approach are also presented.
Intercomparison of tropospheric ozone models: Ozone transport in a complex tropopause folding event
Authors: Roelofs G. J. , Kentarchos A. S. , Trickl T. , Stohl A. , Collins W. J. , Crowther R. A. , Hauglustaine D. , Klonecki A. , Law K. S. , Lawrence M. G. , von Kuhlmann R. , van Weele M.
Published: June 2003

The present generation of tropospheric chemistry models applies horizontal and vertical model resolutions that are sufficiently fine to represent synoptic‐scale processes. In this study we compare simulations of a tropopause folding event on 20–21 June 2001 from six tropospheric ozone models with tropospheric ozone profiles observed at Garmisch‐Partenkirchen (Germany). The event involves air masses of stratospheric origin and of North Atlantic and North American tropospheric origin. Two coupled chemistry‐climate models, three chemistry‐transport models, and one chemistry‐trajectory model participate in the intercomparison. The models do not explicitly include stratospheric chemistry, and stratospheric ozone is parameterized instead. The horizontal resolution of the Eulerian models, T42 (2.8° × 2.8°) or finer, appears adequate to represent two prominent features, namely, the stratospheric intrusion descending from the upper troposphere to about 4 km altitude on the first day and an ozone‐poor air mass of marine origin in the lower troposphere on the second day. The ozone distribution from the Lagrangian model is less representative because of an insufficient air parcel density. Major discrepancies between model results and observations are the underestimation of ozone levels in the intrusion, too strong downward transport of ozone between the lower stratosphere and the upper troposphere on the first day, and too fast and deep descent of the intrusion. Accurate representation of ozone levels in the intrusion depends directly on the accuracy of the simulated ozone in the lower stratosphere. Additionally, for Eulerian models a relatively coarse vertical resolution in the tropopause region may add to inaccuracies in the simulated ozone distributions.
An increase in damaged hepatocytes in rats after high intensity exercise
Authors: Kinoshita S. , Yano H. , Tsuji E.
Published: June 2003

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of various exercise intensities on damage to the hepatic parenchymal cells.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats were subjected to forced exercise by treadmill running at 60 and 80% of maximum oxygen uptake () for 120 min, sacrificed immediately and 6 h after the exercise, and then the perfused liver was stained with trypan blue solution to estimate the local damage to the liver.

Results:  Although there were no significant increases in damaged hepatic cells immediately after both intensities of exercise, these damaged cells, in particular pericentral hepatocytes, significantly increased at 6 h after the exercise at the 80%. However, there were no significant increases in the serum glutamic–oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic–pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activities immediately and 6 h after both intensities of exercise.

Conclusions:  These results suggested that hepatocytes suffered damage after high‐intensity exercise, although these histochemical findings in the liver were not observed immediately after the exercise. In addition, in the case of physical activity, there might not be an intimate relationship between the release of enzyme as a hepatic functional biomarker and hepatocyte damage.
Various inotropic effects of angiotensin II in post‐ischaemic rat hearts depending on ischaemic time with possible involvement of protein kinase C
Authors: Wang Q.‐D. , Nygren E.
Published: June 2003

Aims:  The present study investigated if the inotropic effect of angiotensin II (AngII) is altered during post‐ischaemic reperfusion in hearts subjected to mild and severe ischaemia. The possible involvement of protein kinase C (PKC) in the change in the inotropic effect was also investigated.

Methods:  Isolated Langendorff‐perfused rat hearts were perfused under constant flow with oxygenated Krebs–Henseleit buffer and paced at 360 beats min−1. A saline‐filled balloon catheter inserted into the left ventricle was used for measurement of contractile force. In the first series of experiments, hearts were subjected to continuous perfusion, 15‐ or 25‐min global ischaemia followed by 45‐min reperfusion. At the end of reperfusion, 0.1 μmol L−1 AngII was infused for 5 min. In a second series of experiments, AngII was infused in hearts subjected to 25‐min ischaemia followed by 45‐min reperfusion in the absence or presence of the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine chloride (5 μmol L−1).

Results:  The current study demonstrates that AngII exerts a positive inotropic effect in normoxic hearts with an increase of left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) by 11% (P < 0.05 vs. prior to AngII infusion). In post‐ischaemic hearts subjected to 15‐min ischaemia no effect of AngII was observed. In hearts subjected to 25 min of ischaemia, however, AngII evoked a negative inotropic response with a decrease of LVDP by 18% (P < 0.05 vs. prior to AngII infusion). The negative inotropic effect of AngII was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine chloride.

Conclusions:  AngII exerts negative inotropic effect in severely injured post‐ischaemic heart, possibly through the PKC pathway.
Involvement of enteric nerves in permeability changes due to deoxycholic acid in rat jejunum in vivo
Authors: Fihn B.‐M. , Sjöqvist A. , Jodal M.
Published: June 2003

Aim:  Stress and Clostridium difficile toxin A increase epithelial permeability in the small intestine via vagus and visceral afferents, in turn activating mucosal mast cells. Bile acids also increase epithelial permeability but it is not known if nerves or mast cells are involved in this effect in the small intestine.

Method:  In jejunum of anesthetized rats, the effects of hexamethonium and atropine on deoxycholic acid (DCA) induced fluid secretion and increase in epithelial permeability was therefore studied by determining the appearance and disappearance rates of 14C‐mannitol and 51Cr‐EDTA into and from a perfusion system containing 4 or 8 mm DCA and expressed as clearance.

Results:  DCA increased net fluid transport and appearance and to a less extent disappearance rates of the probes. Hexamethonium but not atropine, chronic denervation or the NO synthase inhibitor l‐NNA did significantly decrease the appearance rate and net fluid secretion. The levels of the mast cell protease II (RMCP II) in perfusate and plasma were not increased by DCA. The clearance ratio Cr‐EDTA/mannitol indicates that the plasma clearance of the permeability probes is partly secondary to net fluid transport only at higher DCA concentrations.

Conclusion:  We conclude that the DCA effect on epithelial permeability is to a large part induced by intramural reflex(es) containing nicotinic receptors. The results also suggest that mast cell degranulation and NO release are not involved in the mechanism. This indicates that the nerve effect on intestinal paracellular permeability is not mediated by the mechanisms described for stress or Clostridium difficile toxin A.
Effects of nicotinic receptor blockade on the colonic mucosal response to luminal bile acids in anaesthetized rats
Authors: Sun Ying , Fihn Britt‐Marie , Jodal Mats , Sjövall Henrik
Published: June 2003

Aim: To test the hypothesis that nicotinic receptor mechanisms mediate the effects of bile acids on the colonic mucosa.

Methods: The epithelial transport response to 4 mm deoxycholic acid (DCA) was studied in vitro and in vivo, in rat colon. In vitro, epithelial resistance was measured by square pulse analysis, and net membrane current was calculated from the transmucosal potential difference (PD) and resistance. In vivo, we measured PD and net fluid transport.

Results: In vitro, DCA significantly increased membrane current and induced a progressive decrease in epithelial resistance, which in the distal colon eventually resulted in a significant PD reduction. This response was not significantly affected by hexamethonium. In vivo, DCA reduced PD with a significantly larger response in distal colon, but had no consistent effect on net fluid absorption. Nicotinic receptor blockade per se increased net fluid absorption and slightly reduced PD in proximal colon, and inhibited spontaneous net fluid secretion and markedly reduced PD in distal colon. Nicotinic receptor blockade significantly attenuated the bile‐acid induced PD response.

Conclusion: The data do not support the theory that a bile acid‐activated secretory reflex exists in rat colon. The reduced PD response after hexamethonium suggests that a mechanism involving nicotinic receptors may potentiate the permeability response to luminal bile acids.
13C‐Methacetin metabolism in patients with cirrhosis: relation to disease severity, haemoglobin content and oxygen supply
Authors: Zipprich A. , Meiss F. , Steudel N. , Sziegoleit U. , Fleig W. E. , Kleber G.
Published: June 2003

Background:  Hypoxia may contribute to impairment of liver function and thus interfere with results of liver tests. In patients with cirrhosis, cytochrome P‐450 mediated metabolism of substrates is facilitated in the presence of supplemental oxygen. It has not been studied how this relates to liver function and haemoglobin content.

Aim:  We questioned how oxygen supplementation would influence the hepatic microsomal function as assessed by the 13C‐methacetin breath test in patients with cirrhosis of different severity and different degrees of anaemia.

Methods: 13C/12C ratios in exhaled breath assessed by non‐dispersive infrared spectrometry were studied in 34 patients with cirrhosis (Child A/B/C 9/17/8) after administration of 75 mg 13C‐methacetin p.o. with and without oxygen inhalation (4 L/min).

Results:  In patients breathing room air the total amount of 13C exhaled weakly correlated both with the Child–Pugh score (r = − 0.41, P < 0.02) and haemoglobin concentrations (r = 0.46; p = 0.006). Oxygen supplementation increased the total amount of 13C exhaled by 68 ± 90% (P < 0.001). This effect was similar in Child–Pugh classes A (43 ± 55%), B (83 ± 80%) and C (66 ± 123%) and not related to the Child–Pugh score.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that tests of microsomal liver function are independently influenced both by oxygen delivery and the Child–Pugh score.
Expression profile of wild‐type ETV6 in childhood acute leukaemia
Authors: Patel Naina , Goff Lindsey K. , Clark Taane , Ford Anthony M. , Foot Nicola , Lillington Debra , Hing Sandra , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Jones Louise K. , Saha Vaskar
Published: June 2003

Summary. Comparative expression analysis of wild‐typeETV6 in the disease state showed an absence of expression in ETV6–CBFA2 acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) when compared with non‐ETV6–CBFA2 ALL and acute myeloid leukaemia. Fluorescent in‐situ hybridization and loss of heterozygosity studies showed that 73% of the ETV6–CBFA2 samples had a fully or partially deleted second ETV6 allele, explaining the lack of wild‐type expression in these patients. Although the second ETV6 allele was identified in the remaining patients, no ETV6 expression was detected. These observations support the hypothesis that loss of ETV6 expression is a critical secondary event for leukaemogenesis in ETV6–CBFA2 ALL.
Regulation of tumour necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐induced apoptosis in Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Mouzakiti Amalia , Packham Graham
Published: June 2003

Summary. Tumour necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a potent inducer of apoptosis in sensitive cells and may be suitable for novel anti‐cancer therapies aimed at inducing apoptosis via the activation of TRAIL receptors on malignant cells. Here we have characterized the TRAIL sensitivity of a panel of Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) cell lines. Overall, 5/12 BL cell lines and 1/2 lymphoblastoid cell lines were sensitive to TRAIL‐induced apoptosis, although only one BL cell line approached the sensitivity of Jurkat cells, a widely used model for TRAIL‐induced apoptosis. Whereas, 4/5 of the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐negative cell lines were TRAIL sensitive, only 1/7 EBV‐positive BL cell lines were TRAIL sensitive. However, isogenic BL cell lines with different EBV status were not differently sensitive to TRAIL, indicating that EBV is not a major determinant of TRAIL sensitivity. All cell lines expressed the death receptor (DR)5 TRAIL receptor, whereas expression of DR4 was more variable. Differences in the expression of downstream signalling molecules [Fas‐associated death domain protein (FADD), caspase 8] and inhibitors [decoy receptor 1 (DcR1), cellular FLICE‐like inhibitory protein (c‐FLIP)] did not correlate with TRAIL sensitivity. Therefore, a subset of BL cell lines are sensitive to TRAIL‐induced apoptosis, however, the molecular mechanism that determines responsiveness remains to be identified.
Inflammatory infiltrate of chronic periradicular lesions: an immunohistochemical study
Authors: Liapatas S. , Nakou M. , Rontogianni D.
Published: June 2003

Aim  To determine the cellular profile of human chronic periradicular lesions using immunohistochemical methods in order to study the differences in the cell infiltrate of periradicular granulomas and cysts.

Methodology  The study population consisted of 45 individuals without any systemic disease. Biopsies were obtained during periradicular surgery. Paraffin‐embedded sections were stained by the avidin–biotin complex method (ABC), whilst cryostat tissue sections were stained using the alkaline phosphatase antialkaline phosphatase assay (APAAP). These methods are highly valid and sensitive using a panel of specific monoclonal antibodies: CD4, CD8, CD3, CD10, HLADR, CD20, CD45RO, CD68 and CD57. The 45 specimens were characterized by the use of both techniques.

Results  The 45 specimens were histologically diagnosed as: 25 periradicular granulomas, 17 periradicular cysts and 3 scar tissues. No statistically significant differences were detected in the inflammatory infiltrate between periradicular granulomas and cysts. Observation of the sections showed that the majority of inflammatory cells consisted of T and B lymphocytes and macrophages. T and B lymphocytes were equally distributed in 60% of the cases. The T4/T8 ratio ranged approximately from 1 to 3 and greater, being consistent with inflammation of periradicular tissues. The final differentiation of B lymphocytes to plasma cells was also detected, whilst natural killer (NK) cells were found in only 10 cases (22%). Moreover, antigen presenting cells and T suppressor/cytotoxic cells were found to be associated with both pre‐existing and newly formed epithelium.

Conclusions  Periradicular granulomas and cysts represent two different stages in the development of chronic periradicular pathosis as a normal result of the process of immune reactions that cannot be inhibited.
How important are large vs. small forest remnants for the conservation of the woodland flora in an urban context?
Authors: Godefroid Sandrine , Koedam Nico
Published: June 2003

Aim  To test whether, in an urban area, small forest fragments are more important than large ones, the present study aimed at firstly exploring the relationship between plant functional groups or individual species and urban woodlot characteristics such as patch area and isolation, and secondly investigating whether equal‐sized combinations of islands tend to differ in species richness.

Location  The city of Brussels.

Methods  We considered the relationship between size, species richness and plant functional groups among one very large (1666 ha) and 11 rather small (2–123 ha) woodlots.

Results  The largest woodlot harboured species missing in the smaller ones. The species‐area relationship plotted for these wooded patches fitted the semilog model very well. Twenty‐three species had a significantly higher frequency in the main forest. Only six species had a significantly higher frequency in smaller woodlots. The occurrence of species groups with high conservation value (e.g. ancient forest species, rare species) was higher in large patches. However, a SLOSS analysis showed that habitat subdivision appeared to be associated with increased species counts. A marginally nonsignificant effect of distance to the main forest became significant when matrix species were removed from the patch samples.

Conclusions  Although overall the data showed a higher conservation value for large woods, some plant functional groups (e.g. woodland species vs. ancient forest species) responded differently to fragmentation. This illustrates that, for conservation strategies, studies considering the biotic characteristics of remnants should focus on the species number of particular plant functional groups, especially those with high conservation value. Furthermore, matrix species should be removed from the analysis in order not to mask underlying patch size and distance effects.
Cardiovasoactive Peptides in Hemodialysis Patients: Diagnostic Tools and Predictors of Outcome: A Review of Present Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Odar‐Cederlöf I. , Kjellstrand C. M.
Published: June 2003

The main cardiovasoactive peptides involved in cardiovascular adaptation to renal failure and dialysis are reviewed with a special focus on their possible role in pathophysiology, diagnosis of cardiovascular and fluid volume abnormalities, and prognostic information.

The role of vasoactive peptides in cardiovascular stability during hemodialysis (HD) are best seen in sequential HD, where the release of vasoconstrictors is stimulated by volume reduction during ultrafiltration, but is blunted during isovolemic HD, whereas plasma vasodilators increase.

Plasma levels of the natriuretic peptides atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are elevated in fluid volume overload and heart failure and decrease during dialysis. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is elevated in severe volume overload and hypertension and calcitonin gene‐related peptide in large‐volume overload. Plasma BNP increases with left ventricular failure and improves during dialysis.

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system as reflected by increased plasma levels of NPY is associated with poor prognosis. High levels of the natriuretic peptides ANP and BNP are likewise predictors of poor prognosis.

Determinations of plasma levels of cardiovasoactive peptides may be helpful in clinical practice to diagnose volume overload and heart failure and to assess the severity of heart failure and of hypertension, as a guide to the choice of dialysis treatment and pharmacotherapy and to monitor treatment. Clinical studies will be needed in HD patients to establish the value of measurement of plasma cardiovasoactive peptides in clinical practice.

The research in this field is still in its infancy and promises to be exciting in the future. There appears to be a balance of vasomotor tone and cardiac response to meet any emergency and stress such as intermittent dialysis. Further knowledge will increase our chances for major therapeutic interventions.
Hematologic recovery after autologous PBPC transplantation: importance of the number of postthaw CD34+ cells
Authors: Feugier Pierre , Bensoussan Daniele , Girard Florence , Alla Francois , Schuhmacher Anne , Latger‐Cannard Veronique , Hulin Cyrille , Witz Francis , Witz Brigitte , Carret Anne Sophie , Bordigoni Pierre , Lederlin Pierre , Janot Christian
Published: June 2003

BACKGROUND: The implementation of a quality‐assurance program is a major requirement to ensure quality and safety of the final PBPC components intended for clinical use. It is not clear whether the quantification of CFU‐GM and CD34+ cells should be done on fresh components and after cryopreservation, which better represents the actual composition of the graft.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Correlation between prefreeze and postthaw MNCs, CD34+ cells, and CFU‐GM collected from 126 patients undergoing BMT (n=43) or PBPC (n =83) transplantation were evaluated. The statistical incidence of prefreeze and postthaw parameters as well as patient characteristics and conditioning regimens on hematologic recovery were analyzed.

RESULTS: By multivariate analysis, prefreeze and postthaw CD34+ cells were the only two variables significantly and independently correlated to hematologic recovery. Low prefreeze and postthaw CD34+ cell numbers associated to a low CD34+ yield characterize PBPC grafts from patients who have the slowest hematologic recovery. The postthaw PBPC CD34+ cell number can be estimated before conditioning regimen by thawing a small aliquot of the graft.

CONCLUSION: In association to prefreeze CD34+ cell number and to CD34+ yield, postthaw CD34+ cell number may be useful in monitoring cell loss during processing and identifying patients at risk of slow PBPC engraftment.
An automatable format for accurate immunohematology testing by flow cytometry
Authors: Roback John D. , Barclay Sheilagh , Hillyer Christopher D.
Published: June 2003

BACKGROUND: Current immunohematology testing methods have limitations including cost, throughput, and adaptability to automation. Furthermore, current automated and semiautomated workstations cannot accommodate many other tests relevant to blood transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Authentic clinical samples from hospitalized patients were tested for ABO group, D type, and presence of RBC alloantibodies by column agglutination technology (CAT), standard tube methods, and a recently developed flow cytometry (FC) technique. Included were challenging samples with rouleaux, autoantibodies, mixed‐field reactions, and weak antibodies. Antibody staining of RBCs for FC was initially performed in test tubes and subsequently in microtiter filter plates interfaced with a vacuum manifold.

RESULTS: When antibody staining was performed in tubes, FC testing determined the correct ABO group and D type for 99.1 percent of 222 clinical samples, as compared to accuracies of 91.9 percent for CAT and 95.0 percent for standard tube testing. FC testing also detected 99.5 percent of clinically relevant RBC alloantibodies in 239 patient samples, as compared to 98.9 percent for CAT and 94.7 percent for LISS‐IAT. Using the FC filter plate technique, 104 of 109 samples (95.4%) were correctly typed for ABO and D (the remaining five samples were read as “no type determined” due to RBC and serum testing discrepancies), and RBC alloantibodies of the IgG and IgM classes were correctly identified in 98.3 percent of samples.

CONCLUSIONS: Optimized FC testing methods that are comparable in accuracy to standard CAT and tube methods are described. When used with filter plates, this methodology should allow rapid and cost‐effective immunohematology testing of both patient and donor samples in an automated workstation format. The same workstation should support automation of other pretransfusion assays that can be analyzed by FC.
Psychosocial factors at work and self reported health: comparative results of cross sectional and prospective analyses of the French GAZEL cohort
Authors: Niedhammer I , Chea M
Published: June 2003

Background:Psychosocial factors at work have been found to be significant contributors to health, especially cardiovascular health.

Aims:To explore the relation between psychosocial factors at work and self reported health, using cross sectional and prospective analyses for a large occupational cohort of men and women.

Methods:Psychosocial factors at work were evaluated using the Karasek questionnaire, designed to measure psychological demands, decision latitude, social support, and physical demands. Self reported health was used as health outcome. Covariates included chronic diseases, and sociodemographic, occupational, and behavioural factors. The cross sectional and prospective analyses concerned respectively 11 447 and 7664 workers. Men and women were analysed separately.

Results:Cross sectional analysis revealed significant associations between psychological demands, decision latitude, social support, and physical demands, and self reported health for both men and women. Prospective analysis showed that high psychological demands for both genders, low decision authority for men, and low social support and high physical demands for women were predictive of poor self reported health. These results were independent of potential confounding variables.

Conclusions:Results highlight the predictive effects of psychosocial factors at work on self reported health in a one year follow up study. They also underline the need for longitudinal study design and separate analyses for men and women in the field of psychosocial factors at work.
Quantum Statistical Derivation of the Ginzburg–Landau Equation.
Authors: Fujita Shigeji , Godoy Salvador
Published: June 2003

The Cooper pair (pairon) field operator ψ†(r,t) changes, following Heisenberg's equation of motion. If the Hamiltonian ℋ contains pairon kinetic energies h0, a condensation energy α(<0) and a repulsive point-like interpairon interaction βδ(r1-r2), β>0, the evolution equation for ψ is nonlinear, from which we obtain the Ginzburg–Landau (GL) equation: [Formula: see text] for the GL wave function Ψσ(r)≡ , where σ denotes the state of the condensed pairons, and n the density operator. The GL equation with α=-εg(T) is shown to hold for all temperatures (T) below Tc, where εg is the pairon energy gap. Its equilibrium solution yields that the condensed pairon density n0(T)=|Ψσ(r)|2 is proportional to εg(T). The original GL T-dependence of the expansion parameters near Tc:α=-b(Tc-T), β= constant is justified. With the assumption of h0, a new formula for the penetration depth is obtained.
The Estimate of the Electron–Phonon Coupling Constant in the Thin Film
Authors: Pantić M. , Mašković Lj. D. , Tošić B. S.
Published: June 2003

Hamiltonians of electron–phonon interaction for thin metallic films are formulated. This is the basis for the estimate of the superconductivity critical temperature for films and corresponding bulk structures. It is shown that the interaction of surface electrons in the film with bulk phonons could explain the experimental fact that critical temperatures of the films are higher than the corresponding ones in bulk (massive) structures. Since above fact is valid nearly for all pure metallic, one can conclude that the dominant form or the interaction in films is the interaction of surface electrons with bulk phonons.
Study of Phase Transitions in Polymorphic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Nesrullajev A. , Salihoğlu S. , Yurtseven H.
Published: June 2003

This work presents our investigations of mezomorphic properties of two polymorphic liquid crystals, namely, 4-nonyloxy-4-butoxyphenyl benzoate and N-(-4-heptyloxybenzylidene-4-butylaniline) in a wide temperature range, particularly, in the phase transition regions. By means of an original experimental method, the heterophase regions and also the phase transition temperatures have been determined for these materials with high accuracy. These phase transition intervals have been analyzed using a mean field model.
Complex Systems Study as Biology
Authors: Oono Y.
Published: June 2003

If we pay serious and conscientious attention to the connotation of the word "complexity", study of complex systems must basically be biology. Basic questions are raised from this point of view.
Electron-Magnetic, Lattice and Magnon Grüneisen Parameters of Iron and Nickel: Results from Thermal Expansion Measurements and Model Calculations
Authors: Mukherjee Goutam Dev , Bansal C. , Chatterjee Ashok
Published: June 2003

Thermal expansion measurements have been performed on nickel and iron using a three terminal capacitance dilatometer with a new cell design and a theoretical model has been developed to obtain the electron-magnetic, lattice and magnon contributions to thermal expansion and corresponding Grüneisen parameters.
Tunneling Density of States in Quasicrystals and Approximants
Authors: Davydov D. N. , Mayou D. , Berger C. , Jansen A. G. M.
Published: June 2003

Using a low temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscope and a break-junction tunneling technique, the tunneling density of states (DOS) measurements on oxidized and bare surfaces of quasicrystalline icosahedral i-AlPdRe and i-AlCuFe, and of the approximant α-AlMnSi, as well as crystalline non-approximant ω-AlCuFe phase were performed. A narrow pseudogap at the Fermi level of about 50 meV width was found in tunneling spectra of icosahedral and approximant phases. For higher energies, the DOS exhibits a square root energy dependence attributed to electron–electron interaction effects. The tunneling DOS differs from the LMTO calculated DOS. The possible role of the electron scattering and the non-homogeneous electronic structure close to the surface are discussed.
Enhanced Velocity-Overshoot Effect Calculated by the Path Integral Quantum Transport Equation
Authors: Schulz-Mirbach C.
Published: June 2003

Based on our quantum transport model7 which we have derived from the real-time Feynman path-integral on the discretized time axis in momentum space including scattering processes, we have calculated the momentum and energy distribution function for homogeneous Gallium Arsenide. We find a strongly enhanced velocity-overshoot effect which we believe to follow from the quantum effects taken into account in our model. The scattering processes take place at discrete points, which the movement in the electrical field is calculated analytically.
Origin and Processes of O-Cu(001) and the O-Cu(110) Biphase Ordering
Authors: Sun Chang Q.
Published: June 2003

From the perspective of bond forming, origin of phase-formation on the O-Cu(001) and the O-Cu(110)is analyzed. It is suggested that the formation of the O -1 and the hybridized- O -2 gives in nature the c (2 × 2)-O and subsequently, the [Formula: see text]phase, on the Cu(001). The re-ordering of the primary Cu2O units transforms the Cu(110)-(2×1)-O into the c (6 × 2)-O. As consequences of the O-2 -hybridization, the Cu(001)-[Formula: see text] differs from the Cu(110)-(2×1)-O in origin by nothing more than that the -O-Cu-chain rotates 45° to fit itself to the coordination-surrounding. It proposed that one metal atom may donate more than one-electron to different oxygen atoms. However, one oxygen, with two directional bonding orbitals and two nonbonding orbitals, can never get more than one-electron from a specific metal atom. The sp-hybridization of oxygen cannot occur before its two bonding orbitals are fully occupied. Besides the ionization of oxygen and metal atoms, the polarization of the metal and the hybridization of O -2 dominate the processes of oxidation and the behavior of the oxides. Further considerations are required regarding how the O-coverage reversibly varies the valence-state of oxygen, and how the coverage and temperature reassemble the Cu2O on the Cu(110).
Characteristics of Aharonov–Bohm Electron Interference in Two-Mode Squeezed Vacuum
Authors: Shao Bin , Zou Jian
Published: June 2003

Electron interference related to Aharonov–Bohm effect in the presence of the two-mode quantized radiation field is investigated. Characteristics of Shapiro steps, the visibility of the interference fringe and the temporal behavior of electron interference in correlated and uncorrelated two-mode radiation field are discussed. It is shown that for the correlated two-mode squeezed vacuum the integer Shapiro steps are obtained and the time evolution of the intensity of electron interference can exhibit very interesting periodic spontaneous collapse and revival (CR), while for the uncorrelated two-mode coherent state the fractional Shapiro steps are obtained and the CR phenomenon does not occur. In addition, the relation between CR and the quantum fluctuation in electron interference is also discussed.
Renormalization Group and Color Confinement
Authors: Nishijima K.
Published: June 2003

It is shown that color confinement is an inevitable consequence of an unbroken non-Abelian gauge symmetry and the resulting asymptotic freedom of quantum chromodynamics.
Dynamically Driven Renormalization Group Applied to Self-Organized Critical Systems
Authors: Vespignani A. , Zapperi S. , Loreto V.
Published: June 2003

The Dynamically Driven Renormalization Group is a general framework developed to study the critical properties of nonequilibrium systems with stationary states. In particular this renormalization scheme allows the systematic analysis of several models showing self-organized criticality in terms of usual concepts of phase transitions and critical phenomena.
Nicht was fehlt, ist entscheidend, sondern was da ist. Psychotherapie für Menschen mit geistiger Behinderung1
Authors: Pörtner Marlis
Published: June 2003

Der Konflikt zwischen Tiefenpsychologie und Theologie kann gelöst werden, wenn man die Bewusstseinsevolution betrachtet. Dann erweist er sich als Folge der Bewusstseinsmutation: jener erkenntnistheoretischen Revolution, bei der im Verlauf der Neuzeit die archaische Weltsicht, aus der die Theologie hervorging, überwunden und durch eine fundamental neue abgelöst worden ist.
Molecular Mechanisms of Dendritic Cell Sublineage Development from Human Hematopoietic Progenitor/Stem Cells
Authors: Strobl Herbert
Published: June 2003

In vitro differentiation models of human CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells have contributed significantly to our current understanding of dendritic cell (DC) development. DC sublineages seem to arise from common progenitors with monocytic cells. These progenitors seem to respond to instructive signals from cytokine receptors and steroids to follow defined sublineage differentiation pathways. Transcriptional processes involved in the regulation of lineage fate decisions of putative common DC progenitors remain poorly defined, as is our knowledge of the identities of DC precursors in vivo. Most likely, tissue-specific microenvironmental signals, including tumor-derived signals, critically modulate DC phenotype and function in vivo.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Hazel Pollen Protein (70 kD) as a Luminal Binding Protein (BiP): A Novel Cross-Reactive Plant Allergen
Authors: Gruehn Sabine , Suphioglu Cenk , O’Hehir Robyn E. , Volkmann Dieter
Published: June 2003

Background: Tree pollen contains many allergens showing cross-reactivity to proteins from pollen, seeds, and fruits of different plant species. Amongst Fagales, responsible for several allergenic responses, hazel provides the best material to study pollen as well as food allergens in one species. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the physiological function of an allergen from hazel pollen and to determine possible cross-reactivity to proteins from hazelnut. Methods: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against hazel pollen crude extract were produced. On the basis of IgE binding, demonstrated by sera from patients allergic to hazel pollen, one mAb indicating the best correlation has been selected, and the putative allergen was purified by preparative gel electrophoresis. Isoforms were investigated by two-dimensional PAGE, and for molecular identification a hazel pollen cDNA library was constructed. In situ localization of the allergen during pollen development was performed by immunofluorescence labelling. Results: Immunological staining of crude hazel pollen extract with specific IgE and mAb revealed a 70-kD protein. Immunoblot studies with mAb showed cross-reactive proteins of 70–72 kD in different plant tissues and species. After protein purification, the IgE-binding reactivity of the allergen has been reconfirmed, and two isoforms were detected. Molecular cloning identified the allergen as a luminal binding protein (BiP) of the Hsp70 family with 88–92% sequence identity in various plants. Further immunocytological studies indicated involvement of BiP during pollen development. Conclusions: Chaperons like BiP play an important role in protein synthesis and in the protection of cellular structures during stress-related processes. Because of their highly conserved protein sequences, we propose that such allergens could be responsible for at least a part of the allergenic cross-reactivity between proteins from different pollens and plant foods.
Acute Effect of Air Pollution on Respiratory Complaints, Exhaled NO and Biomarkers in Nasal Lavages of Allergic Children during the Pollen Season
Authors: Steerenberg P.A. , Bischoff E.W.M.A. , de Klerk A. , Verlaan A.P.J. , Jongbloets L.M.N. , van Loveren H. , Opperhuizen A. , Zomer G. , Heisterkamp S.H. , Hady M. , Spieksma F.T.M. , Fischer P.H. , Dormans J.A.M.A. , van Amsterdam J.G.C.
Published: June 2003

During 2 months of the pollen season, the acute and putative adjuvant effect of traffic-related air pollution on respiratory health was investigated in children sensitised to grass pollen or house dust mite (HDM). Respiratory complaints were objectified via measurement of exhaled NO and inflammatory mediators in nasal lavage (NAL). During the study children, skin prick negative (n = 31) or positive to grass pollen (n = 22), HDM (n = 34) or grass pollen + HDM (n = 32), kept a daily diary on respiratory symptoms, and NAL and exhaled air was sampled twice a week. The level of air pollutants and pollen was monitored continuously. Like children sensitised to HDM, those sensitised to pollen reported respiratory complaints (shortness of breath, itchy eyes or blocked nose) more frequently than non-sensitised children during (but not before) the pollen season; the respiratory complaints of sensitised children were independent of the pollen level. In addition, exposure to increased levels of PM10 induces ‘shortness of breath’ in pollen- and HDM-sensitised children, whereas ozone induces a blocked nose in HDM-sensitised children. Combined exposure to PM10 + pollen and O3 + pollen induces a blocked nose in both HDM-sensitised children and children sensitised to pollen + HDM. Significant positive associations were found between eNO and the levels of NO2, CO, PM2.5 and pollen in both sensitised and non-sensitised children. At the start of the pollen season, the NAL concentration of eosinophils and ECP in pollen-sensitised children was increased compared to winter, but their levels were not further affected by increased exposure to pollen or air pollution. In conclusion, during the pollen season, sensitised children continuously report a high prevalence of respiratory complaints which coincides with increased levels of upper and lower airway inflammatory markers. No additional pro-inflammatory effect of air pollution was observed, which indicates that air pollution does not facilitate allergen-induced inflammatory responses.
Oral Allergy Syndrome to Fig
Authors: Antico A. , Zoccatelli G. , Marcotulli C. , Curioni A.
Published: June 2003

Background: The few cases of food allergy to fig reported to date, whose main manifestations were anaphylactic reactions, have been related to a cross-sensitisation to weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) or to the ‘latex-fruit syndrome’. Here we report on two cases of the oral allergy syndrome (OAS) to fig in patients whose main allergic manifestations were related to sensitisation to grass and birch pollens. Methods: The patients were characterised by clinical history, skin prick tests (SPT) with commercial and in-house extracts, prick-by-prick test, specific IgE measurements and challenge tests. PBS-soluble and insoluble extracts of both fig skin and pulp were examined for the presence of potential allergens by IgE immunoblotting. Results: Both patients showed OAS followed by respiratory symptoms when challenged with fig. They were negative in both specific IgE detection and SPT with commercial extracts of fig and many other plant materials, including F. benjamina and Hevea brasiliensis, while grass and birch pollens gave positive results. Prick-by-prick tests and SPT with in-house extracts indicated that the fig skin had a much higher allergenicity than the pulp. Despite negative IgE detection by the CAP assay, immunoblotting experiments showed that potential fig allergens were PBS-soluble and present only in the skin of the fruit. Conclusions: OAS to fig followed by respiratory symptoms can be present in patients not sensitised to weeping fig or having the latex-fruit syndrome. Different parts of the fig can have different allergenicities, the most important allergens being proteins related to the skin of the fruit. Improved commercial fig extracts to be used for the diagnosis of this type of allergy have to be developed.
A CD15-Immunoreactive Subpopulation of Radial Glial Cells in the Developing Human Lateral Ganglionic Eminence
Authors: Mai Jürgen K. , Krajewski Stanislav , Ashwell Ken W.S. , Andressen Christian
Published: June 2003

There is evidence that precursor cells for the different derivatives of the ganglionic eminences arise from topographically different areas of the proliferative neuroepithelium, indicating a molecular specification for this histologically homogeneous region. We describe a regionally differentiated expression pattern within the lateral ganglionic eminence during human fetal development of a subpopulation of radial glial cells stained for CD15. These cells were first observed around 12–13 weeks of fertilization in the ventricular layer of the lateral ganglionic eminence at the corticostriatal sulcus. In the following weeks increasing numbers of cells and their positively stained processes concentrate along the lateral perimeter of the striatum, with processes continuing towards the pial surface defining the border between the olfactory tubercle medially and the piriform cortex laterally. The number of immunoreactive cells and processes increases until 24 weeks. At that time, these cells are found throughout the lateral ganglionic eminence, defining a border against the unstained medial ganglionic eminence. Concomitant with the rise in the number of fibres until 24 weeks of fertilization, there is also an increase in immunoreactivity in the dorsal striatum. According to the accepted role of radial glial cells as a guidance structure for migrating postmitotic neurones, these CD15-immunoreactive fibres may enable the registration between localized proliferation areas within the lateral ganglionic eminence and related differentiation areas, thereby helping to characterize the fundamental subdivisions of the brain.
Single-Dipole Analyses of the N100m Are Not Suitable for Characterizing the Cortical Representation of Pitch
Authors: Lütkenhöner Bernd
Published: June 2003

In several previous studies, the deflection N100m of the auditory evoked field (AEF), occurring about 100 ms after the onset of a sound, has been used to investigate whether complex tones are represented in the auditory cortex by their spectrum or their periodicity pitch. However, the results partially contradict each other. Moreover, the basic assumption that N100m originates from a single cortical source has been questioned. To gain clarity, the AEF elicited by a complex tone with a periodicity of 4 ms (pitch 250 Hz) and a spectrum between 1000 and 2000 Hz was compared with the AEF in response to pure tones of 250 and 1000 Hz, respectively (on 12 subjects). While a previous analysis [Audiol Neurootol 2001;6: 263–278] was exclusively devoted to the N100m latency, this article presents source analyses with two variants of a single-dipole model (moving dipole and fixed dipole). Earlier reports, suggesting that N100m arises from a cortical source representing the pitch rather than the spectrum of the sound, could not be reproduced, independent of the method used. It appears that an investigation of the functional organization of the human auditory cortex based on N100m source modeling requires a much higher degree of sophistication than a single-dipole model can provide.
Expression of Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-4 in Normal Human Corneal Cells and Experimental Corneal Neovascularization
Authors: Ma David Hui-Kang , Zhang Fen , Shi Wen , Yao Jeng-Yuan , Hsiao Ching-Hsi , Wu Hui-Chuan , Kim Wan-Soo , Hao Yan-Xia , Hwang David G. , Chen Jan-Kan , Tsai Ray Jui-Fang
Published: June 2003

Purpose: To study the expression of TIMP-4 in cultured corneal cells and in corneal neovascularization. Methods: Human limbo-corneal epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells were cultured in serum-free, PMA- or basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-treated condition. Neovascularization in rat cornea was induced by suturing. The expression of TIMP-4 was examined by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. Results: TIMP-4 was constitutively expressed in cultured human corneal cells. The expression was only mildly enhanced after mitogen treatment. TIMP-4 immunoreactivity was predominantly expressed in normal rat corneal epithelium, and also in ingrowing blood vessels following suturing, which persisted up to day 28. Increased staining in corneal epithelium and blood vessels were also noted in vascularized human corneas. Conclusions: TIMP-4 is expressed in the cornea, which may play a role in modulating extracellular matrix remodeling associated with corneal wound healing and angiogenesis.
Electrochemical copolymerization of pyrrole and propylene oxide
Authors: Shi Chenjun , Xue Huaiguo , Shen Zhiquan , Li Yongfang , Yang Chunhe
Published: June 2003

A copolymer of pyrrole and propylene oxide was synthesized by an electrochemical method. The product was confirmed to be a copolymer by electrochemical and spectral experiments. The influences of the electrode materials and solvents on the copolymerization were explored. A probable mechanism was proposed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 2624–2627, 2003