bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Loss in On-Line Hemofiltration
Authors: Santoro Antonio , Canova Cristina , Mancini Elena , Deppisch Reinhold , Beck Werner
Published: May 2004

Background: The albumin serum level is one of the most important nutritional indices and is directly correlated to the uremic patient’s hemodialysis outcome. One of the factors that can interfere with protein metabolism is the possible loss of albumin through the dialysis membrane that can contribute to keeping levels chronically low, especially for high-flux convective treatments requiring high permeability membranes and the removal of high volumes of plasma water. Methods: Twenty stable patients undergoing chronic renal replacement therapy for at least 3 months were included. Each patient performed four hemofiltration treatments, 2 in post-dilution and 2 in pre-dilution (post-D, pre-D) with a polyamide membrane (Poliflux, 2.1 m2). Results: The amount of albumin found in the ultrafiltrate was 2.9 ± 1.5 g in post-D and 1.7 ± 0.8 g in pre-D (p < 0.01). Albumin loss during online HF was lower than 3 g per treatment, and significantly lower in pre-D than in post-D. Furthermore, we observed a correlation between the transmembrane pressure and the albumin loss in both techniques, but with different slopes (y = 0.351x – 10.014 in post-dilution and y = 0.0639x + 8.2403 in pre-dilution; p = 0.01): the same transmembrane pressure determines larger albumin losses in post-dilution than in pre-dilution. Conclusions: Convective treatments that utilize high exchange volume can be performed with no risk of a significant albumin loss, particularly in pre-D where the proteic component’s contact with the dialysis membrane is lower. In post-dilution the transmembrane pressure is a relevant factor in determining the protein loss.
Molecular Determinants Controlling Homeostatic Recirculation and Tissue-Specific Trafficking of Lymphocytes
Authors: Tanaka Toshiyuki , Ebisuno Yukihiko , Kanemitsu Naotoshi , Umemoto Eiji , Yang Bo-gie , Jang Myoung-ho , Miyasaka Masayuki
Published: May 2004

The homeostasis of the immune system is maintained by the recirculation of naïve lymphocytes through the secondary lymphoid tissues, such as the lymph nodes, Peyer’s patches, and spleen. Upon insult by pathogens or antigens, lymphocytes become activated, and the regulated trafficking of these cells results in the integration of systemic and regional immune responses. The exquisite specificity of such lymphocyte trafficking is determined by tissue-specific guidance signals expressed by the endothelial cells of postcapillary venules, combined with counterreceptors expressed by the circulating lymphocytes. The high endothelial venules can selectively guide naïve lymphocytes into the lymph nodes and Peyer’s patches by expressing a unique combination of vascular addressins, lymphocyte-specific chemokines, and chemokine-binding molecules. The inflamed postcapillary venules in extralymphoid tissues, such as the skin and intestinal lamina propria, also use a distinct array of endothelial adhesion molecules and tissue- selective chemokines, and support the recruitment of effector and memory lymphocytes that express the appropriate receptors for tissue-specific trafficking. In this review, we summarize the present understanding of the homeostatic recirculation of naïve lymphocytes through the secondary lymphoid tissues and the specific targeting of antigen-experienced lymphocytes into the effector sites. We also revisit some previous studies that reported apparently conflicting observations.
The Shadow Sultan: Succession and Imposture in the Mughal Empire, 1628-1640
Authors: Subrahmanyam Sanjay , Flores Jorge
Published: May 2004

This essay explores the problem of imposture in the Mughal empire, through the case of Sultan Dawar Bakhsh, or Bulaqi, who ruled briefly in the late 1620s. Though official Mughal histories had it that he was executed in January 1628 along with several other princes, various persons claiming his identity surfaced, first in India and then in Iran. We examine the views of Mughal, Portuguese, Iranian and other sources on these claimants, and also explore what forms of proof were sought by different early modern agents in order to satisfy themselves of the identity of a returning prince. Cette contribution examine le problème de l'imposture dans l'Empire moghol en étudiant le cas du Sultan Dawar Bakhsh ou Bulaqi, qui a régné pendant quelques mois en 1627-28. Selon les chroniques mogholes de l'époque, Bulaqi aurait été exécuté en janvier 1628 avec plusieurs autres princes. Mais l'on sait que pendant la décennie suivante, plusieurs personnages se sont manifestés, tout d'abord en Inde et ensuite en Iran, prétendant être le sultan disparu. En croisant les informations fournies par les textes et des documents d'archives assez variés, en provenance de l'Etat portugais des Indes, de l'Empire moghol et de l'Etat safavide, l'analyse suit pas à pas le parcours de ce Martin Guerre moghol pour apprécier les preuves apportées sur son identité.
The Determinants of Social Well-being, Economic Development, and Development Index in the Third World Countries
Authors: El-Ghannam Ashraf Ragab
Published: May 2004

This study examines the relationship between social well-being and economic development in Third World countries, thus, involving human resources, economic, social, and technological factors. An attempt is made to answer the following question: What factors contribute to the formation of social well-being and economic development? The patterns of development theory are used to help answer this question. Secondary data were collected from various sources. The sample involved 103 countries from the Third World. The study used hierarchical regression and recursive path analysis as statistical methods. Results suggest that more than 66, 64, and 67 percent of the variance in social well-being, economic development, and development index, respectively, is explained by total population, population growth rate, percent of urban population, total exports, health indicators, and energy consumption per capita. This study suggests that there is more support for patterns of development analysis of structural change. Findings in this research demonstrate that social well-being in Third World countries is responsive to changes in the structure of population policy, technique of international trade, investment in social infrastructure, and improvements in energy efficiency.
Sonographers and Registration to Practice
Authors: Lee H R , Paterson A M
Published: May 2004

The matter of whether there should be separate registration for those practising in the field of medical ultrasound has long been debated. The United Kingdom Association of Sonographers (UKAS) has been a protagonist for such registration since it was formed approximately a decade ago. On the other hand, the College of Radiographers (CoR) has held to the view that this was not necessary as ultrasound came within the scope of practice of radiography and the majority of non-medical ultrasound practitioners are radiographers. The advent of the Health Professions Council, the increased focus on regulation of health care practitioners and significant developments in ultrasound applications has led to this matter being debated further. In particular, it has led to joint working by CoR and UKAS to scope an application for 'Sonographer' to become a protected title and, hence, sonography a registered profession. The history and background to this current work is outlined, together with a brief review of the work taking place and the steps that must be taken if the application is to be submitted.
Interaction of Hg(II) with kaolin-humic acid complexes
Authors: Arias M. , Barral M.T. , Da Silva–Carvalhal J . , Mejuto J .C. , Rubinos D.
Published: May 2004

The adsorption and desorption of Hg(II) by humic acid (HA) previously adsorbed on kaolin was studied. In the range of HA concentration investigated (0.0 –26.9 mg g–1), the Hg(II) adsorption capacity of kaolin at pH 4 is enhanced by the presence of HA. For the complexes with the highest HA concentration and for low Hg(II) initial concentrations, adsorption was lower, i.e. as HA concentration on the complexes increases, Hg(II) equilibrium concentration also increases. This behaviour is due to the increasing presence of dissolved organic matter as the HA concentration on the complexes increases. The dissolved organic matter is able to form a soluble complex with Hg, thus decreasing adsorption. Hg(II) adsorption from a 2.5×10–5MHg(II) solution was influenced by pH. For kaolin, a pHmax(pH where maximum adsorption occurs) of 4.5 was observed. At pH values >pHmaxretention decreased with increasing pH. This same behaviour was observed for the kaolin- HA complex containing the lowest HA concentration (6.6 mg g–1). For the other kaolin-HA complexes there was little effect of pH on Hg(II) adsorption between pH 2.5 and pH 6.5. The presence of HA increased the adsorption of Hg(II) on kaolin all along the pH range studied. Desorption experiments showed that the amount of Hg(II) desorbed was quite low (<1%) for all the HA and Hg(II) concentration range studied, except for the kaolin at acid pH (pH 2.5) where the Hg(II) released was >50% of Hg(II) previously adsorbed. The presence of HA dramatically reduced this percentage of desorption to values of <3%, indicating reduced risk of toxicity problems in surface and subsurface waters. The addition of Cu(II) did not favour any Hg(II) desorption, even though Cu exhibits a strong affinity for organic matter.
Predicting spasticity after stroke in those surviving to 12 months
Authors: Leathley M J , Gregson J M , Moore A P , Smith T L , Sharma A K , Watkins C L
Published: May 2004

Objective: To measure muscle tone in a cohort of patients 12 months after stroke and develop a preliminary model, using data recorded routinely after stroke, to predict who will develop spasticity.

Design: A cohort study.

Setting: Initially hospitalized but subsequently community-dwelling stroke survivors in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

Subjects: One hundred and six consecutively presenting stroke patients surviving to 12 months.

Main outcome measures: Spasticity measured at a range of joints using the Tone Assessment Scale.

Results: The Tone Assessment Scale revealed spasticity in 38 (36%) patients and more severe spasticity in 21 (20%) of the 106 patients. Logistic regression analysis revealed that lower day 7 Barthel Index score and early arm or leg weakness were significant predictors of abnormal muscle tone; and lower day 7 Barthel Index score, left-sided weakness and ever smoked to be significant predictors of more severe muscle tone.

Conclusions: Using the models, it may be possible to predict whether or not spasticity will develop in patients 12 months after stroke. The utility of the models is aided by their use of predictor variables that are routinely collected as part of stroke care in hospital and which are easy to measure. The models need testing prospectively in a new cohort of patients in order to test their validity, reliability and utility and to determine if other data could improve their efficiency.
Measurement properties of the Frenchay Activities Index among individuals with a lower limb amputation
Authors: Miller W C , Deathe A B , Harris J
Published: May 2004

Objective: To assess the reliability and validity of the original and a modified version of the Frenchay Activities Index (FAI) among individuals with a lower limb amputation.

Design: Two week test-retest design.

Setting: South Western Ontario Amputee Program, London, Ontario, Canada.

Subjects: Consecutive sample of 84 individuals, primarily men (78.6%), mean age 56.5 years with a unilateral transtibial (71.4%) or transfemoral amputation related to traumatic (59.5%) or vascular causes.

Interventions: All subjects completed a questionnaire containing the FAI and other scales, the 2-minute walk and timed up and go tests during a regularly scheduled clinic visit. Fifty-five subjects completed a second FAI which was mailed to them two weeks later. Twenty-nine others completed the second FAI upon return for testing related to another project.

Main measures: FAI, Activity-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire-Mobility Scale, 2-minute walk, timed up and go and walking device aid use.

Results: Relative reliability for the FAI (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.79) and FAI-18 (ICC = 0.78) was acceptable, however bias between measurements was detected. Hypothesized relationships (p B=0.001) between both FAI versions and the Activity-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire-Mobility Scale, 2-minute walk and timed up and go test were observed. Significant group differences were observed for amputation cause, mobility device use, age and years as an amputee. Neither version distinguished between amputee level or gender groups.

Conclusions: The original and modified FAI are valid and reliable tools for unilateral amputees. Reliability is adequate to detect group but not individual level differences. Additional FAI-18 items did not substantially improve the ability to detect between-amputation-group differences.
Correlation between upper limb functional ability and structural hand impairment in an early rheumatoid population
Authors: Adams J , Burridge J , Mullee M , Hammond A , Cooper C
Published: May 2004

Objective: To explore the relationship in individuals with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) between self-report upper limb function, therapist-assessed upper limb function and therapist-assessed measures of structural impairment (handgrip, active hand motion and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint ulnar deviation).

Design: Thirty-six patients with early RA were recruited across seven outpatient occupational therapy departments.

Outcome measures: Upper limb functional activity and ability was measured using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Grip Ability Test (GAT). Upper limb impairment was assessed by bilateral power handgrip using the MIE Digital Grip Analyser, goniometry measures of bilateral metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint ulnar deviation and bilateral active motion of the wrist.

Results: Strong correlations (>0.7) were seen between the self-report DASH questionnaire and the therapist-rated GAT assessment. Bilateral power handgrips were also strongly correlated with both functional assessments. Dominant ulnar deviation at the MCP joints demonstrated a weak correlation (0.3-0.4) with both self-report and therapist-rated functional ability and a weak to moderate. (0.1-0.5) correlation on the nondominant side.

Conclusion: In this early RA population handgrip strength is an accurate indicator of upper limb ability. Ulnar deviation at the MCP joints shows only a weak to moderate association with upper limb functional activity and ability. Although the DASH and the GAT were strongly correlated, the DASH was a more discriminating measure than the GAT in assessing upper limb ability in this sample population.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes in the UK: a national representative survey
Authors: Yohannes Abebaw M , Connolly Martin J
Published: May 2004

Background: Respiratory disease is a common cause of disability in middle and late life. Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes improve exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with chronic lung diseases. However, currently, in the UK the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programmes and their characteristics are unknown.

Methods: We surveyed pulmonary rehabilitation programmes in terms of number, size, duration, content of educational and exercise programme, and staffing. We mailed a 17-item questionnaire previously used in Canadian study to 190 physiotherapy departments within acute hospitals in UK.

Results: One hundred and seventy-one (90%) responses were received. Sixty-eight centres (40%) run a pulmonary rehabilitation programme (99% outpatient). Mean age of subjects was]=70 in only seven centres (10%), though most cited no upper age limit. Ninety-nine per cent of centres incorporated exercise training. Programmes recruited a median group size of 10 patients (range 4 - 17) at a given time with a median duration of eight weeks (range 5 - 24) weeks. Most (71%) run twice per week with a duration of 2 hours (63%). Only half offered smoking cessation support, and a minority gave advice on coping with disease, travel and sexual matters.

Conclusion: Around 40% of surveyed hospitals run a pulmonary rehabilitation programme and most of the programmes are similar in their format, content and staffing. Despite the high prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-related disability in old age most programmes chiefly included younger subjects. This may reflect lack of referral. Greater awareness and expansion of availability of programmes is indicated.
Psychological well-being of spouses of stroke patients during the first year after stroke
Authors: Forsberg-Wärleby Gunilla , Möller Anders , Blomstrand Christian
Published: May 2004

Objective: To investigate whether spouses' psychological well-being changed between the first weeks after their partner's stroke and four months and one year later, and to study the relationship between spouses’ psychological well-being and objective characteristics of the stroke patients.

Design: Prospective, longitudinal study.

Setting: Hospital care and follow-ups.

Subjects: Sixty-seven consecutively enrolled spouses to first-ever stroke patients B/ 75 years.

Main measures: The Psychological General Well-Being (PGWB) Index. Clinical examination of the stroke patients. The Barthel Index.

Results: The spouses' psychological well-being was significantly lower in the first weeks after their partner's stroke as compared with norms. At four months, it had increased significantly. Between four months and one year, individual changes were observed in both positive and negative directions; thus, the mean level of the group remained constant. The spouses’ psychological well-being in the first weeks was significantly related to the patients’ sensorimotor impairments, while it was related at four months to cognitive impairment and the patients’ abilities in self-care. At one year, psychological well-being was related to remaining sensorimotor and cognitive impairments. A significant relationship was also seen between the spouses’ and the stroke patients’ emotional health.

Conclusions: The spouses' psychological well-being increased after the first chaotic weeks. The presence of visible impairments initially seemed to affect spouses’ emotional health, while cognitive and emotional impairments became more evident in everyday life. In the long term, however, the spouses’ individual life situations and coping abilities seem to be of relatively increasing importance for their continued well-being.
Comparison of two ultrasonographic localization techniques for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis with extracorporeal shock wave therapy: a randomized study
Authors: Melegati Gianluca , Tornese Davide , Bandi Marco , Rubini Manuela
Published: May 2004

Objective: To describe and compare two ultrasonographic localization techniques for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis with extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT).

Design: Forty-one subjects selected through clinical examination were randomly assigned to two groups of treatment.

Interventions: Each subject received a three-session ultrasound-guided ESWT (performed weekly). Lateral tangential focusing was used in group A, whereas back tangential focusing was used for group B.

Main outcome measures: Total Elbow Scoring System (TESS) and a visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to evaluate each subject before the treatment and at six months follow-up.

Results: TESS and VAS pretreatment scores were homogeneous between the groups (p/0.05). In both groups there was a significant (p B=0.05) increase in the TESS score and a decrease in the VAS score but there was no resolution of the pain. TESS and VAS follow-up scores were homogeneous between the two groups (p/0.05).

Conclusions: There was no difference between the two techniques of using ESWT.
Glorifying War in a Peaceful City: Festive Representation of Combat in Baroque Siena
Authors: Hanlon Gregory
Published: May 2004

Urban elites across early modern Europe practised a variety of playful activities that extolled martial virtues. In Siena under the Medici grand dukes, nobles played at war for an urban audience, and celebrated those among them who had experienced the real thing. Tuscan cities staged mock-combat games of mazzoscudo, organized jousts and assembled cavalcades of mounted honour-guards whose regalia evoked chivalric themes. These festivities contrasted ever more strikingly with a Counter-Reformation of decency, while the aristocracy demilitarized culturally, as well as professionally. If warlike cultures practised more warlike sports, Italian states and society as a whole demilitarized in the course of the late seventeenth century, and these pageants waned in consequence.
British Logistics and the Conduct of the Carnatic Wars
Authors: Bryant G. J.
Published: May 2004

All armies must feed to exist and move to engage the enemy, so logistical operations are crucial to warfare. Logistical provision for the Madras army was so restricted in its wars between 1746 and 1783 that it dominated strategy rather than served it. This was due to the enemy’s light cavalry being so superior that it could invariably cut British communications. But the enemy was unable to defeat the British in pitched battles or take their fortresses. So the East India Company survived to become dominant in India by keeping the Madras field army ‘in being’, supported by its invulnerable Bengal supply base and usual command of coastal waters.
Sepoys and the Siege of Kut-al-Amara, December 1915-April 1916
Authors: Gardner Nikolas
Published: May 2004

This article examines the role of Indian soldiers and camp followers during the siege of Kut-al-Amara, from December 1915 to April 1916. Historians have traditionally attributed the demise of the British garrison at Kut to the suspect decisions of its commander, Charles Townshend, and his superiors. This article argues that the conduct of the Indians attached to Towns-hend’s force contributed significantly to its defeat. It also demonstrates that many of the difficulties faced by the Kut garrison were a product of the delicate relationship between Indians and the British command structure of the Indian Army during the First World War.
Was there a ‘Boney’ Fuller after the Second World War? Major-General J.F.C. Fuller as Military Theorist and Commentator, 1945-1966
Authors: Searle Alaric
Published: May 2004

The historiography to date on Major-General J.F.C. Fuller has created the impression that his career as a military theorist gradually petered out in the latter half of the 1930s, and that after the Second World War the former enfant terrible devoted himself to the writing of military history. This article argues that such an interpretation is open to question, showing the extent to which he continued to write and reflect as both military theorist and commentator in the post- 1945 period. While his views on the new strategic situation, the Cold War, nuclear weapons and the redefinition of military concepts appeared in too many diverse places to enjoy the same influence as his interwar theories, their existence and remarkable coherence demand that his achievements as a theorist be re-evaluated in the light of this hitherto ignored body of work.
Imaging primary progressive multiple sclerosis: the contribution of structural, metabolic, and functional MRI techniques
Authors: Filippi Massimo , Rovaris Marco , Rocca Maria A
Published: May 2004

Patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) typically experience a progressive disease course from onset, leading to the accumulation of severe neurological disability. This is in contrast with the observation that the burden and activity of lesions on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the brain are much lower in patients with PPMS than in those with other less disabling forms of the disease. Studies with structural and functional MRI techniques are providing relevant contributions to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the accumulatio n of irreversible neurological deficits in patients with PPMS. The results of these studies underpin that the main factors possibly explaining the clinical/MRI discrepancy observed in patients with PPMS include the presence of a diffuse tissue damage that is beyond the resolution of conventional imaging, the extent of cervical cord damage, and the impairment of the adaptive capacity of the cortex to limit the functional consequences of subcortical pathology.
Overview of European pilot study of interferon b-1b in primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Montalban Xavier
Published: May 2004

This short monograph describes a trial of interferon b-1b in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) or transitional MS. Designed as a randomized, placebo -controlled pilot, the trial randomly placed 73 eligible patients into two groups, placebo or interferon b-1b 8 MIU given subcutaneo usly every other day for two years. Significant differences favouring interferon b-1b in the MSFC score, T2 lesion volume and T1 lesion volume at 24 months were observed. Further study of interferon b-1b therapy in PPMS patients is warranted.
The PRO MiSe trial: baseline data review and progress report
Authors: Wolinsky Jerry S ,   PROMiSe Trial Study Group
Published: May 2004

The PRO MiSe trial is a multinational, multicentre, double-blind, placebo -controlled trial evaluating the effects of glatiramer acetate treatment over 3 years in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). A total of 943 patients were enrolled, and all those remaining on-study had completed at least 24 months as of O ctober 2002. Baseline clinical and MRI character istics and select correlations are reported here. A total of 3.9% of patients exhibited confirmed relapse over 1904 patient-years of exposure, indicating success of efforts to exclude relapsing MS types. O f the 26.3% of patients who have prematurely withdrawn from the study, only 36% discontinued after meeting the study primary endpoint of disease progression. The progression rate in patients in the low Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) stratum (3.0-5.0) observed thus far is markedly lower than the 50% annual progression rate estimate used for determining size and statistical power of the trial; progression was observed in 16.1% of patients with 12 months of study exposure. These early findings raise some concern about the ability of the trial to demonstrate a significant treatment effect, and suggest that the short-term natural history of PPMS may not be as aggressive as previously assumed.
Mathematical methods of combining deterministic/probabilistic criteria in short-term generating reserve scheduling
Authors: Billinton R , Fotuhi-Firuzabad M
Published: May 2004

Probabilistic approaches generally base the design and operating constraints on the criterion that the risk of certain events must not exceed preselected limits. Many utilities still prefer to use deterministic techniques owing to the difficulty in interpreting a numerical risk index and the lack of sufficient information provided by a single index. This is especially true in the power system operating domain as existing probabilistic risk indices do not provide any assessment of the capacity reserve available during the course of system operation. A practical way to overcome these difficulties is to embed deterministic considerations into the probabilistic framework in the form of system well-being analysis. Incorporating this framework in system operation overcomes some of the difficulties in interpreting the risk index and also provides the system operator with important information on the degree of system well-being. The intent of this paper is to present the basic mathematical principles of short-term generating reserve scheduling utilizing the well-being framework. The evaluation process is illustrated using an educational test system, designated as the RBTS.
Analysis methods for fault trees that contain secondary failures
Authors: Dunnett S , Andrews J D
Published: May 2004

The fault tree methodology is appropriate when the component level failures (basic events) occur independently One situation where the conditions of independence are not met occurs when secondary failure events appear in the fault tree structure. Guidelines for fault tree construction that have been utilized for many years encourage the inclusion of secondary failures along with primary failures and command faults in the representation of the failure logic. The resulting fault tree is an accurate representation of the logic but may produce inaccurate quantitative results for the probability and frequency of system failure if methodologies are used that rely on independence. This paper illustrates how inaccurate these quantitative results can be. Alternative approaches are developed by which fault trees of this type of structure can be analysed.
Infrared Complex Refractive Index Measurements and Simulated Reflection Mode Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy of Shock-Compressed Polymer Thin Films
Authors: Moore D. S. , McGrane S. D. , Funk D. J.
Published: May 2004

Thin film interference effects complicate the interpretation of reflection-mode infrared absorption spectra obtained in shock-compressed thin film materials and must be carefully accounted for in any analysis attempting to unravel shock-induced energy transfer or reactivity. We have calculated such effects for spectrally simple model systems and also, to the extent possible, for real systems such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and nitrocellulose (NC). We have utilized angle-dependent infrared (IR) reflectometry to obtain the ambient spectral complex index for PMMA and NC for use in the calculations and to interpret experiments. A number of counterintuitive spectral effects are observed versus film thickness and during uniaxial shock compression: absorption band shifts, changes of shape, and changes in both absolute and relative peak intensities. The film thickness effects can be predicted by thin film interference alone, while additional assumptions are required to predict the effects due to shock compression. Since it is very difficult to obtain the complex index in the shock state, we made very simple assumptions regarding the change in vibrational spectra upon shock loading. We illustrate general thin film interference effects that could be expected and compare them to experimental results for the antisymmetric NO2 stretch mode of NC.
Photoacoustic Distributed Feedback Laser Spectroscopy on Hydrogen Flouride
Authors: Wolff M. , Groninga H. , Harde H.
Published: May 2004

We have developed a photoacoustic spectrometer based on a distributed feedback (DFB) diode laser. The single-mode emission of the laser can be tuned continuously over 700 GHz enabling the precise determination of absorption line parameters. Our experiments were performed on the rotational lines P2 and P3 of the vibrational transition 2–0 (overtone) of hydrogen fluoride (HF) at 1304.534 nm and 1312.591 nm (vacuum), respectively. The pressure broadening coefficient due to elastic collisions with N2 molecules is found to be 5.92 ± 0.04 GHz/atm (296 K) and 5.38 ± 0.04 GHz/atm, respectively. The Doppler linewidths turn out to be 630 ± 40 MHz and 670 ± 40 MHz (296 K), respectively. The pressure-induced line shifts of the absorption lines for N2 are 540 ± 40 MHz/atm and 580 ± 40 MHz/atm, respectively.
Vibrational Spectra and Surface-Enhanced Vibrational Spectra of 1-Nitropyrene
Authors: Carrasco-Flores E. A. , Clavijo R. E. , Campos-Vallette M. M. , Aroca R. F.
Published: May 2004

The present report on the vibrational spectra of 1-nitropyrene (1-NP) describes the infrared and Raman spectra; their interpretation is aided by local density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP/6–311G(d,p) level of theory and by the surface-enhanced vibrational spectra (SEVS) with the final objective of trace organic analytical applications. The surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) on silver island films and mixed silver/gold island films was investigated with several laser lines in the visible region. Surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA) was attempted on silver and gold island films. The interface of the organic 1-NP with smooth metal surfaces of silver and copper was also probed using reflection–absorption infrared (RAIRS) spectra that, in conjunction with the transmission spectra, allow one to extract the molecular orientation in vacuum evaporated thin solid films. Chemical adsorption of 1-NP on silver and further photochemical decomposition of the 1-NP-metal adsorbates was detected with all visible laser lines. Resonance Raman scattering (RRS) using UV-laser excitation at 325 nm was also recorded.
Adsorption of a Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Polyester on Silver Nanoparticles Studied by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering and Micro Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Pérez-Méndez M. , Marsal-Berenguel R , Sanchez-Cortes S.
Published: May 2004

A Raman study of the adsorption of thermotropic cholesteric liquid crystal polyester PTOBDME ([C34H36O8]n) on Ag surfaces is presented in this work. The affinity and adsorption mechanism of this polymer was tested on Ag metal colloids and on Ag films obtained by direct immobilization of the colloidal nanoparticles. We have first studied the structure of PTOBDME suspended in several solvents in order to identify the Raman bands used as structural markers. The adsorption of the polymer leads to a deep conformational change involving both the main chain and the aliphatic side chain. The interaction of polymers like PTOBDME with metals could be interesting in the formation of functionalized surfaces, providing them with specific physicohemical properties with possible applications in recognition phenomena, which can be easily characterized by Raman spectroscopy.
Photon Migration in Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Everall Neil , Hahn Thomas , Matousek Pavel , Parker Anthony W. , Towrie Michael
Published: May 2004

Monte Carlo simulation has been applied to study time-resolved Raman and Tyndall photon migration in opaque samples under isotropic and forward scattering conditions. For isotropic scattering, Raman and Tyndall intensities are predicted to decay according to t(1– n) and t−n, respectively, where the value of n depends on the ratio of the optical collection aperture to the mean scattering length. The simulation correctly reproduced the analytical results of n = 3/2 and n = 5/2 for a point source in infinite and semi-infinite media, respectively. In addition the model can be used to relate the time at which a Raman photon exits the sample to the mean depth at which it was generated. This could provide a useful tool for depth profiling the chemical composition of turbid systems, and hence be a useful addition to the established array of photon-migration techniques. The model was applied to analyze experimentally observed Raman and Tyndall decay profiles from powdered trans-stilbene. The transport mean free path ( lt) was calculated to be ∼400 μm, which was significantly larger than the particle sizes present in the sample (∼10–100 μm). This implies that the particles were highly forward scattering, as would be expected for this size range. When highly anisotropic scattering was introduced into the model a much more reasonable scattering length ( ls ∼ 40 μm) was obtained. Finally, a simple analytical model was developed that gives the correct relationship between the Raman and Tyndall decay exponents for isotropic scattering. To the best of our knowledge this work represents the first detailed study of Raman photon migration under time-resolved conditions.
Characterization of the Structures of Size-Selected TiO2 Nanoparticles Using X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Choi Hyun Chul , Ahn Hyo-Jin , Jung Young Mee , Lee Min Kyu , Shin Hyun Joon , Kim Seung Bin , Sung Yung-Eun
Published: May 2004

To investigate the relationship between the size and structure of TiO2 nanoparticles, three size-selected samples of TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared via a hydrolysis method that uses Ti[OCH(CH3)2]4 as the starting material. The structures of the nanoparticles were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Analysis of the XRD patterns and of the TEM images showed that the samples were dispersed, with an average particle size of ∼30 nm (sample A), ∼12 nm (sample B), and ∼7 nm (sample C). Their X-ray absorption spectra indicate that samples A and B have an anatase structure, whereas sample C has a structure very similar to that of the TiO2 II phase, which generally arises only under high-pressure conditions. This difference can be attributed to size-induced radial pressure within the smaller nanoparticles, which plays an important role in the phase of TiO2 nanoparticles in sample C.
Comparison of Methods for Rapid Evaluation of Lifetimes of Exponential Decays
Authors: Moore Christopher , Chan Sing Po , Demas J. N. , DeGraff B. A.
Published: May 2004

For evaluating exponential luminescence decays, there are a variety of computational rapid integral methods based on the areas of the decay under different binned intervals. Using both Monte Carlo methods and experimental photon counting data, we compare the standard rapid lifetime determination method (SRLD), optimized rapid lifetime determination methods (ORLD), maximum likelihood estimator method (MLE), and the phase plane method (PPM). The different techniques are compared with respect to precision, accuracy, sensitivity to binning range, and the effect of baseline interference. The MLE provides the best overall precision, but requires 10 bins and is sensitive to very small uncorrected baselines. The ORLD provides nearly as good precision using only two bins and is much more immune to uncompensated baselines. The PPM requires more bins than the MLE and has systematic errors, but is largely resistant to baseline issues. Therefore, depending on the data acquisition method and the number of bins that can be readily employed, the ORLD and MLE are the preferred methods for reasonable signal-to-noise ratios.
Tissue Distribution of the Death Ligand TRAIL and Its Receptors
Authors: Spierings Diana C. , de Vries Elisabeth G. , Vellenga Edo , van den Heuvel Fiona A. , Koornstra Jan J. , Wesseling Jelle , Hollema Harry , de Jong Steven
Published: May 2004

Recombinant human (rh) TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) harbors potential as an anticancer agent. RhTRAIL induces apoptosis via the TRAIL receptors TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 in tumors and is non-toxic to nonhuman primates. Because limited data are available about TRAIL receptor distribution, we performed an immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of the expression of TRAIL-R1, TRAIL-R2, the anti-apoptotic TRAIL receptor TRAIL-R3, and TRAIL in normal human and chimpanzee tissues. In humans, hepatocytes stained positive for TRAIL and TRAIL receptors and bile duct epithelium for TRAIL, TRAIL-R1, and TRAIL-R3. In brains, neurons expressed TRAIL-R1, TRAIL-R2, TRAIL-R3 but no TRAIL. In kidneys, TRAIL-R3 was negative, tubuli contorti expressed TRAIL-R1, TRAIL-R2, and TRAIL, and cells in Henle's loop expressed only TRAIL-R2. Heart myocytes showed positivity for all proteins studied. In colon, TRAIL-R1, TRAIL-R2, and TRAIL were present. Germ and Leydig cells were positive for all proteins studied. Endothelium in liver, heart, kidney, and testis lacked TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2. In alveolar septa and bronchial epithelium TRAIL-R2 was expressed, brain vascular endothelium expressed TRAIL-R2 and TRAIL-R3, and in heart vascular endothelium only TRAIL-R3 was present. Only a few differences were observed between human and chimpanzee liver, brain, and kidney. In contrast to human, chimpanzee bile duct epithelium lacked TRAIL, TRAIL-R1, and TRAIL-R3, lung and colon showed no TRAIL or its receptors, TRAIL-R3 was absent in germ and Leydig cells, and vascular endothelium showed only TRAIL-R2 expression in the brain. In conclusion, comparable expression of TRAIL and TRAIL receptors was observed in human and chimpanzee tissues. Lack of liver toxicity in chimpanzees after rhTRAIL administration despite TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 expression is reassuring for rhTRAIL application in humans. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:821–831, 2004)
Functional Analysis of the Matricellular Protein SPARC with Novel Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Sweetwyne Mariya T. , Brekken Rolf A. , Workman Gail , Bradshaw Amy D. , Carbon Juliet , Siadak Anthony W. , Murri Carrie , Sage E. Helene
Published: May 2004

SPARC (osteonectin, BM-40) is a matricellular glycoprotein that is expressed in many embryogenic and adult tissues undergoing remodeling or repair. SPARC modulates cellular interaction with the extracellular matrix (ECM), inhibits cell adhesion and proliferation, and regulates growth factor activity. To explore further the function and activity of this protein in tissue homeostasis, we have developed several monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that recognize distinct epitopes on SPARC. The MAbs bind to SPARC with high affinity and identify SPARC by ELISA, Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, immunocytochemistry, and/or immunohistochemistry. The MAbs were also characterized in functional assays for potential alteration of SPARC activity. SPARC binds to collagen I and laminin-1 through an epitope defined by MAb 293; this epitope is not involved in the binding of SPARC to collagen III. The other MAbs did not interfere with the binding of SPARC to collagen I or III or laminin-1. Inhibition of the anti-adhesive effect of SPARC on endothelial cells by MAb 236 was also observed. Functional analysis of SPARC in the presence of these novel MAbs now confirms that the activities ascribed to this matricellular protein can be assigned to discrete subdomains.
Electron Microscopic Cytochemistry of Adenylyl Cyclase Activity in Mouse Spermatozoa
Authors: Liguori Lavinia , Rambotti Maria Grazia , Bellezza Ilaria , Minelli Alba
Published: May 2004

We investigated adenylyl cyclase activity of mouse spermatozoa by electron microscopic cytochemistry. Subcellular localization of enzyme activity was determined in the presence and absence of bicarbonate ions. Results confirm the existence in sperm of a bicarbonate-regulated adenylyl cyclase, which suggests microdomain signaling. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:833–836, 2004)
The Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 (VMAT2) Is Expressed by Normal and Tumor Cutaneous Mast Cells and Langerhans Cells of the Skin but Is Absent from Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis
Authors: Anlauf Martin , Schafer Martin K.-H. , Depboylu Candan , Hartschuh Wolfgang , Eiden Lee E. , Kloppel Guenter , Weihe Eberhard
Published: May 2004

Monoamine storage in secretory granules is mediated by the vesicular monoamine transporters 1 and 2 (VMAT1 and VMAT2). The aim of our study was to identify monoamine-handling normal and neoplastic inflammatory cells in the skin by their expression of VMAT1 and VMAT2. Normal skin from various parts of the body, as well as 21 cases of cutaneous mastocytosis and 10 cases of cutaneous Langerhans cell histiocytosis were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, radioactive in situ hybridization, and double-fluorescence confocal microscopy. VMAT2-positive cells in the subepidermal layer were identified as mast cells by their expression of tryptase. Neoplastic mast cells in all cases of cutaneous mastocytosis retained their VMAT2 positivity. The intraepidermal VMAT2-expressing cells were identified as Langerhans cells by their CD1a positivity. VMAT2 was absent from Langerhans cell histiocytosis. VMAT2 is an excellent marker for normal and neoplastic mast cells. The expression of VMAT2 demonstrates the capacity of mast cells for monoamine storage and handling. The presence of VMAT2 in epidermal Langerhans cells revealed a previously unrecognized monoamine-handling phenotype of these cells and indicates possible involvement of amine storage and release associated with antigen presentation. Absence of VMAT2 in neoplastic Langerhans cells indicates a loss of monoamine handling capacity of these cells during tumorigenesis. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:779–788, 2004)
Immunohistochemical Detection of Islet-1 and Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Dorsal Root Ganglia (DRG) of Sheep Fetuses During Gestation
Authors: Luo Haoshu , Cui Sheng , Chen Dawei , Liu Jiali , Liu Zhongxia
Published: May 2004

This study first investigated the ontogeny of Islet-1 and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression and their co-localization in the DRG of sheep fetuses during gestation by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The results showed that Islet-1 and nNOS were located in the nuclei and cytoplasm of DRG neurons, respectively. The relative percentages of Islet-1-immunopositive (Islet-1+) neurons accounting for the total DRG neurons were 90%, 79%, 66%, and 53% at days 60, 90, and 120 of gestation and postnatally, respectively. The percentage of nNOS-immunopositive (nNOS+) neurons was 94% at day 60 and declined to ∼30% at day 90, with no obvious further change until the postnatal period. Dual IHC showed that ∼69% Islet-1+ neurons express nNOS at day 60 of gestation. This proportion declined to ∼24% at day 90, after which there was no significant change until birth. We also observed that most Islet-1+ and nNOS+ neurons belonged to small and medium-sized DRG neurons from day 90 of gestation to the postnatal period. These results suggest that both Islet-1 and nNOS are important for the differentiation and maintenance of some specific phenotypes of DRG neurons during late gestation of sheep fetuses, although the related mechanisms need to be further elucidated. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:797–803, 2004)
Crossreaction with an Anti-Bax Antibody Reveals Novel Multi-endocrine Cellular Antigen
Authors: Utsunomiya Kazuhiro , Watanabe Jun , Takamori Yasuharu , Kataoka Yosky , Kurokawa Kiyoshi , Yamada Hisao
Published: May 2004

We found a novel protein that has crossreactivity with a polyclonal anti-Bax antibody (SCBAX antibody). The protein was localized exclusively in the endocrine cells of hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pancreatic islets. Immunohistochemical (IHC) double labeling revealed that the cells showing crossreactivity with this antibody corresponded precisely to oxytocin neurons and ACTH, α-MSH, and glucagon cells in rat and gerbil. By immunoelectron microscopy, the protein was localized predominantly in and just around the secretory granules in the cytoplasm but not in the mitochondria. Double-labeling IHC with the anti-Bax SCBAX antibody and two anti-Bax monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) showed that cells stained with the anti-Bax SCBAX antibody were not stained with anti-Bax MAbs except for very few cells (probably apoptotic cells). Western blotting analysis revealed that the molecular mass of the protein was ∼55 kD, which differs from that of Bax protein (21 kD). These findings indicate that the anti-Bax SCBAX antibody recognizes not only proapoptotic Bax protein (a 21-kD mitochondrial protein) but also an unknown substance present in one endocrine cell group in each endocrine organ. Therefore, the protein is designated as multi-endocrine cellular antigen (MECA). MECA is probably a 55-kD protein secreted from the particular differentiated cell groups of endocrine tissues. (J Histochem Cytochem 52:805–812, 2004)