bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinearized approach to profile inversion
Authors: Kleinman R. E. , Van Den Berg P. M.
Published: March 2007

A method for reconstructing the index of refraction of a bounded inhomogeneous object of known geometric configuration from measured far‐field scattering data is presented. This work is an extension of recent results on the direct scattering problem wherein the governing domain integral equation was solved iteratively by a successive relaxation technique. The relaxation parameters were chosen to minimize the residual error at each step. Convergence of this process was established for indices of refraction much larger than required for convergence of the Born approximation. For the inverse problem, the same technique is applied, except is this case both the index of refraction and the field are unknown. Iterative solutions for both unknowns are postulated with two relaxation parameters at each step. They are determined by simultaneously minimizing the residual errors in satisfying the domain integral equation and matching the measured data. This procedure retains the nonlinear relation between the two unknowns. Numerical results are presented for the dielectric slab. The algorithm is shown to be effective in cases where the iterative solution of the direct problem is rapidly convergent and outperforms the Born‐based approaches.
Nonrigid object motion and deformation estimation from three‐dimensional data
Authors: Chen Chang Wen , Huang Thomas S.
Published: March 2007

This article presents a model‐based approach for nonrigid object motion and deformation analysis from 3D data. The modeling primitives used in this research are the superquadrics, which have already been proven useful in describing a variety of natural and man‐made objects. This model‐based approach is not only in accordance with the human visual perception process but also able to decouple the large and unstructured nonrigid motion estimation system into simple and well structured subsystems. We develop a recursive algorithm for estimating global motion and object shape, which effectively incorporates aprioriknowledge of the object into the estimation procedure and obtains a good estimate of the global motion and object shape even if the given 3D points are distributed bias. After compensating for the global motion of the object a tensor model of local deformation is introduced and a spherical harmonic surface‐fitting algorithm is described such that the localized deformations of the object surface can be characterized. The local deformations of the object are then estimated using tensor‐description‐based analysis and parametrized by the directions and magnitudes of the extreme deformations in a localized surface element. To illustrate the potential of this model‐based approach for nonrigid motion analysis, a real data example is presented using the proposed approach. This example involves estimating the left ventricle motion and deformations from a time sequence of 3D coordinates of coronary artery bifurcation points. The estimation results show the success of the model‐based approach even when the given bifurcation points are distributed only on half of the left ventricle surface.
Optical waveguides for imaging applications: Design by an inverse scattering approach
Authors: Tamil Lakshman S. , Jordan A. K.
Published: March 2007

An inverse scattering theory is used to design optical waveguides capable of transmitting spatial images without degradation. The propagation characteristics of N modes each carrying a pixel of the image are specified by a transverse rational reflection coefficient. The Gel'fand‐Levitan‐Marchenko inverse scattering theory is used to obtain the unique solution of the permittivity profile of the waveguide from the reflection coefficient
Intensity‐based computer binocular stereo vision: Signal models and algorithms
Authors: Gimel'farb G. L.
Published: March 2007

This article summarizes briefly the results obtained within the symmetrized approach to intensity‐based computer binocular stereo vision, considering it as a problem of optimal statistical estimation of digital terrain model (DTM) from a given stereo pair of images. This approach was proposed by the author in 1972–1979 and then extended to take into account main geometric and photometric characteristics of the binocular stereo vision: symmetry of both channels, nonuniform intensity distortions over the images, limited possibilities for binocular perception of the terrain, and inherent ambiguity of the DTM estimation from the stereo pair.
Simple pinhole camera calibration
Authors: Dawson‐Howe Kenneth M. , Vernon David
Published: March 2007

A large number of cameras may be modeled quite accurately using the simple pinhole camera model, which may be defined either in terms of camera parameters or by the c matrix (which defines the mapping from 3D points to the image plane). We present formulations of the associated transformations between these two equivalent representations. We also introduce an inexpensive technique for calibrating a camera using a single two‐plane calibration object, and employ a novel high‐precision Hough transform technique for determinings calibration grid lines.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Application of ionospheric tomography to single‐site location range estimation
Authors: Bust G. S. , Cook J. A. , Kronschnabl G. R. , Vasicek C. J. , Ward S. B.
Published: March 2007

The estimation of transmitter location based on radio frequency reception at a single site has long been a challenge. The standard technique for location estimation has typically used an active local vertical transmitter (ionosonde) to characterize the local ionosphere for propagation path modeling. A technique that is totally passive and yields a more comprehensive estimate of the propagation path is under development at Applied Research Laboratories, The University of Texas at Austin. This technique uses tomography to describe the two‐dimensional state of the ionosphere over wide ionospheric swaths. ARL:UT deployed an array of Transit satellite receivers in nine locations along a 2000‐km baseline from Pharr, Texas to Pierre, South Dakota. Transit signals received at these nine locations were analyzed using tomography algorithms to estimate the electron density distribution in the plane defined by a “best‐fit” arc through the receiver array and best‐fit arc along the satellite orbital path. Tomographic results were then compared with conventional propagation path estimates obtained using the local ionosonde. Initial results indicate that this completely passive system will provide ionospheric propagation path estimates better than the local ionosonde method.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
High‐resolution interline image sensors using two‐phase CCD technology
Authors: Nichols David N. , Stevens Eric G. , Burkey Bruce C. , Stancampiano Charles V. , Lee Yung‐Rai , Lee Teh‐Hsuang , Kosman Stephen L. , Losee David L. , Lavine J. P. , Torok G. R. , Khosla R. P.
Published: March 2007

Two interline, 30 frames/second, high‐resolution image sensors are described that use two‐phase charge coupled device (CCD) technology. One is a two‐megapixel, interlaced high‐definition television, sensor, and the other is a 1‐megapixel, progressive‐scan sensor for machine vision applications. These sensors include features such as dual‐horizontal CCD readout, antiblooming protection, electronic shutter capability, low smear, and no lag.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Similarities and differences in radiation therapy optimization and tomographic reconstruction
Authors: Brahme Anders
Published: March 2007

Modern photon radiotherapy optimization methods require the use of a number of nonuniform dose distributions incident on the tumor. From this point of view, radiotherapy optimization has strong similarities with the reconstruction problem in tomographic imaging. In general, the image reconstruction problem is simpler because in the absence of noise and with sufficiently many projections and exact solution always exists. However, it is in general impossible by external beam irradiation to produce an arbitrary desired dose distribution in the patient. This is primarily because the order of events from physical collection of projection data to reconstruction theory is reversed in therapy optimization, starting with the theory and ending with physical irradiation, where negative dose delivery is impossible. Despite this fundamental problem, many approximate image reconstruction methods work quite well for therapy optimization even though strict optimization requires radiobiological models and the finest external beam radiation tool available: the pencil beam.
Spatially adaptive iterative algorithm for the restoration of astronomical images
Authors: Katsaggelos Aggelos K. , Kang Moon Gi
Published: March 2007

This article develops an iterative spatially adaptive regularized image restoration algorithm. The proposed algorithm is based on the minimization of a weighted smoothing functional. The weighting matrices are defined as functions of the partially restored image at each iteration step. As a result, no prior knowledge about the image and the noise is required, but the weighting matrices as well as the regularization parameter are updated based on the restored image at every step. Conditions for the convexity of the weighted smoothing functional and for the convergence of the iterative algorithm are established for a unique global solution which does not depend on initial conditions. Experimental results are shown with astronomical images which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Regularization methods in image restoration: An application to HST images
Authors: Bertero M. , Boccacci P. , Maggio F.
Published: March 2007

The mathematic problem of restoring an image degraded by blurring and noise is ill‐posed, so that the solution is affected by numeric instability. As a consequence, the solution provided by the so‐called inverse filter is completely contaminated by noise and, in general, is deprived of any physical meaning. If one looks for approximate solutions, the ill‐posedness of the problem implies that the set of these solutions is too broad. For this reason, one must look for approximate solutions satisfying some kind of a priori constraints, the so‐called a priori information. This fact explains the variety of methods, usually called regularization methods, which have been designed for solving this kind of problems. In this article we briefly review some of the most widely used methods, both deterministic and probabilistic, and show their effectiveness in the restoration of some HST images.
Speckle imaging in astronomy
Authors: Horch Elliott
Published: March 2007

This article discusses current research in speckle interferometry and speckle imaging in astronomy. These techniques continue to have a significant impact on problems such as stellar formation, stellar masses, and planetary astronomy. In a regime of increasingly sophisticated and impressive instrumentation designed for high‐resolution imaging, there is still an important role for the single‐aperture passive technique of speckle imaging.
Biosensors: An overview
Authors: Rechnitz Garry A.
Published: March 2007

Biotechnology and biomedicine require improved measurement devices for purposes of analysis, monitoring, and control, with specific applications in fermentation, antibody production, drug testing, and patient monitoring. Electrochemical biosensors provide a possible means of meeting such needs provided the capabilities of such sensors can be extended to a wider range of biomolecules and more complex matrices. Several recent initiatives suggest that some new approaches to the development of potentiometric and amperometric biosensors may be effective for this purpose. Such initiatives for the development of novel biosensors require a synthesis of biological and analytical concepts. Possible strategies involve the use of chemoreceptor structures, immunoagents, and cellular materials from plant or animal sources.
Comparison of phenotyping and genotyping of lymphoid neoplasms
Authors: Sun Tsieh , Eisenberg Arthur , Benn Peter , Ngu Mei , Guarino Theresa , Henshall Joan , Grossman Abraham , Cuomo Joanne , Vinciguerra Vincent
Published: March 2007

Comparison of phenotyping (PT) and genotyping (GT) of lymphoid neoplasms was performed on 51 specimens including lymph nodes, bone marrows, and body fluids. PT was performed with a flow cytometer using a large monoclonal antibody panel. GT included the testing for gene rearrangements of heavy chain, κ and λ light chains, and T‐cell receptor β‐chain genes with DNA probes. The results obtained from these two techniques were generally compatible in terms of clonality and cell lineage. Only one case of B‐cell lymphoma was not diagnosed by PT but showed gene rearrangement. For T‐cell lymphoma, GT offers a more definitive diagnosis than does PT. Biclonality was demonstrated in one case of hairy cell leukemia by GT only. The rearranged band also offers a definitive clonal identification based on electrophoretic mobility. GT can detect a monoclonal population as small as 5% and can be performed on old or fresh specimens. PT requires 20% abnormal cells and a fresh specimen. It is concluded that GT is superior to PT for lymphoid tumor diagnosis, but it should be reserved as a supplementary test at this stage because of its technical complexity.
Effects of storage conditions on lymphocyte phenotypes from healthy and diseased persons
Authors: Claramae H. , Miller H. , Levy Norman B.
Published: March 2007

Anticoagulant and room temperature storage of peripheral blood was evaluated in healthy and diseased persons (AIDS and CLL) for its effect upon lymphocyte phenotyping by flow cytometry. Whole blood was stored in either Li heparin, EDTA, or ACD for up to 96 hours. Aliquots at 5 time intervals were evaluated using CD3, CD2, CD4, CD8, and CD19 monoclonal antibodies.

Blood from healthy donors stored in EDTA produced an apparent increase in T cells and decrease in B cells most evident by 96 hours storage. Blood from diseased persons stored in Li heparin up to 96 hours showed insufficient changes in phenotype to warrant a different clinical interpretation.

We conclude that all three anticoagulants are adequate for short term (< 24 hr) room temperature transport and storage of peripheral blood for flow cytometry. Li heparin or ACD are more appropriate if prolonged transport times are anticipated.
Alterations of nonspecific immunity in patients with common migraine
Authors: Covelli Vito , Maffione Angela B. , Munno Irene , Jirillo Emilio
Published: March 2007

In 23 patients with common migraine (CM), immune responsiveness and frequency of immunocompetent cells were investigated. In particular, phagocytosis and killing of Candida albicans by polymorphs (PMNs) and monocytes were analyzed. Also, the percentages of CD3 +, CD4 +, CD8 +, natural killer, and CD15 + cells were evaluated by direct immunofluorescence using specific monoclonal antibodies. The results showed deficits of phagocytosis or killing exhibited by PMNs and monocytes. These immunological findings are discussed in terms of perturbation of immune status in CM patients during migraine attacks.
Production of human α‐ and γ‐interferon is dependent on age and sex and is decreased in rheumatoid arthritis: A simple method for a large‐scale assay
Authors: Kita M. , Yamaji M. , Kitoh I. , Kishida T. , Shiozawa S.
Published: March 2007

We examined host ability to produce α‐ and γ‐interferon on a large scale by culturing 2 ml of peripheral blood for 20 hr with Sendai virus or concanavalin A as inducer of α‐ or γ‐ interferon, respectively. Production of γ‐but not α‐interferon was lower in females (n = 351) than in males (n = 531) (P <0.001). Both α‐ and γ‐interferon production declined gradually with ageing. The production of α‐interferon (3,233 ± 1,773 IU/ml) and γ‐interferon (19 ± 20 IU/ml) in rheumatoid arthritis patients was significantly lower than the values found in total and age‐matched healthy donors (P < 0.01). These results suggest that interferon production is dependent on age and sex and is significantly lower in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Evaluation of the clinical utility of platelet aggregation studies in the long‐term follow‐up of patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease
Authors: Ferroni Patrizia , Gazzaniga Pier Paolo
Published: March 2007

The present study was designed to evaluate the usefulness of laboratory monitoring of antiplatelet therapy by means of a multiparametric evaluation of in vitro platelet aggregation tests in the attempt to individually optimize a given therapeutic regimen. The presence of a condition of hyperaggregability was shown in approximately 80% of patients with different forms of athero‐sclerotic vascular disease not undergoing any therapeutic regimen with antiplatelet agents. Conversely, a significant decrease in platelet activity was observed in patients undergoing different therapies based on acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), ticlopidine, or indobufen. The similar antiaggregatory effect of low‐dose vs. high‐dose ASA therapies was also shown. Dipyridamole alone showed no antiaggregatory effect, which, in turn, was reached only by the addition of ASA. Nevertheless, the association of ASA plus dipyridamole did not show any stronger antiplatelet effect than ASA alone. The evaluation of in vitro platelet activity in a group of patients treated with picotamide failed to show any significant change in comparison with the untreated group, probably due to the short half‐life of picotamidein man and/or to its capability of reversibly antagonizing the action of thromboxane at receptor level. The evaluation of a long‐term follow‐up of 90 patients treated with different antiplatelet agents supports the idea that a multiparametric analysis of in vitro platelet aggregation may provide valuable help in monitoring and optimizing a given therapeutic regimen. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impaired cytokine production in whole blood cell cultures from patients with colorectal carcinomas as compared to benign colorectal tumors and controls
Authors: Elsässer‐Beile U. , von Kleist S. , Fischer R. , Mönting J. Schulte
Published: March 2007

Cytokine production was investigated in whole blood cell cultures from 74 patients with colorectal carcinomas, 20 patients with benign colorectal tumors, and 314 healthy controls. In the 4 day post induction supernatants the levels of IFN‐gamma, IL‐1‐alpha, IL‐2, and TNF‐alpha were mesured by a sensitive immunoassay.

In the blood cell cultures of the patients with colorectal carcinomas significantly lower values of IFN‐gamma (P ⩽.001), IL‐1‐alpha (P⩽.001), and IL‐2(p⩽.01) were found as compared to the patients with bening tumors and the controls, although total and differential leukocyte counts were similar in all three groups. A liner correlation between the levels of IFN gamma and IL‐1‐alpha and the tumor stages could be shown.

Our results suggest that a growing tumor burden may induce increasing immunological deficiencies as reflected by a decreasing cytokine production of the immune cells. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Autoantibodies in the sera of Trypanosoma cruzi‐infected individuals with or without clinical Chagas disease
Authors: Unterkircher Carmelinda , Avrameas Stratis , Ternynck Thérèse
Published: March 2007

Variations in the levels and the specificities of autoantibodies directed against a panel of antigens (cytoskeleton proteins, DNA, laminin) were analyzed in the sera from two groups of humans infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. One group was constituted of apparently healthy blood donors (BD) and the other of patients with clinically confirmed Chagas disease (CCH). In both infected groups, a high proportion but not all sera exhibited dramatic enhancement of IgM and IgG autoantibodies directed against all antigens tested. Sera positive for IgG autoantibodies were generally found more frequently in the CCH than in the BD group, except for anti‐actin antibodies more often present in BD sera. Anti‐laminin IgG antibodies were present in a similar number of individuals in both groups. Although the titers of anti‐laminin IgG antibodies were in general higher in CCH, their dissociation constants were in the same range (7 × 10−8–10−7M) in both groups. IgG autoantibodies were demonstrated to be polyreactive with laminin and other self antigens as well. Circulating immune complexes were present in sera from both groups and the activity of the antibodies dissociated from these complexes was directed against all the antigens of the panel. Although the IgE concentration was significantly enhanced in several subjects from both groups, the incidence of positive sera was higher in the CCH (60%) than in the BD (39%) group. Our results demonstrate that autoantibodies with the characteristics of natural autoantibodies are found in both T. cruzi‐infected apparently healthy individuals and patients. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of the susceptibility of human colorectal tumor explants to lak‐cell lysis: Comparison of various cytotoxicity tests
Authors: Ochalek Tomasz , Kleist Sabine Von
Published: March 2007

The susceptibility of tumor cells from cultures of 8 human colorectal tumor explants to a standard LAK preparation originating from a single healthy donor was assessed in 5 various cytotoxic tests. Target cells were suspended or attached (in three different 51Cr‐release 4 hr tests), grown as a confluent monolayer (in a colorymetric 72 hr test) and grown as three‐dimensional spheroids (in a 51Cr‐release 24 hr assay). The susceptibility to lysis observed for one tumor in the 5 tests varied from 4 to 15 times and was a tumor attribute independent of the susceptibility to lymphocyte attack. There was no correlation of results between the 4 hr tests and a 72 hr test performed on monolayer, or the spheroid test taking into account the resistance of the three‐dimensional structure to lymphocyte invasion. Our study excludes the possibility of quantitative interpolation of assessments of tumor cell susceptibility to lymphocytes received from various tests. It also refers to simple reductionist tests which may be compared, however, after ranking the qualitative categories. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of nonisotopic labeling and detection techniques for nucleic acid hybridization
Authors: Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Hassapoglidou Stavroula , Bean Courtney C.
Published: March 2007

We have used a double‐stranded DNA probe linked to the cystic fibrosis locus to detect a single‐copy gene from varying amounts of genomic DNA, with Southern blot analysis. The DNA plasmid probe was labeled with either biotin or digoxigenin. Biotin or digoxigenin was then linked to alkaline phosphatase (ALP) with use of streptavidin or anti‐digoxigenin antibodies, respectively. ALP activity was then detected with a chromogenic (BCIP/NBT), chemiluminogenic (AMPPD), or fluorogenic (HNPP) substrate. Our results suggest that biotin and digoxigenin perform similarly and that the three substrates exhibit similar detectability under appropriate substrate incubation times: 20‐120 min (AMPPD), 2‐12 h (HNPP), and 18‐48 h (BCIP/NBT). Under optimised conditions and the probe used, these methods detect single‐copy genes from as little as 0.3 μg of total genomic DNA. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advanced glycosylation end products: A new disease marker for diabetes and aging
Authors: Wu James T.
Published: March 2007

Advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) are a potentially useful marker for monitoring glycemic control, predicting the risk of diabetes‐ and aging‐associated clinical complications, and monitoring the treatment of patients with micro‐ and macrovascular diseases, including retinopathy, atherosclerosis, nephropathy, and neuropathy. AGEs or AGEproteins are derived from nonenzymatically glycated proteins (Amadori products) after further cross‐linking with other proteins and additional rearrangement. AGE‐proteins can be assayed by either radioreceptor or immunoassays in blood and tissues. No commercial kit is available at this time. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunoquantification of lipoprotein(a): Comparison of nephelometry with electroimmunodiffusion
Authors: Tiran Andreas , Tiran Beate , Hojas Sabine , Kostner Gerhard M. , Wilders‐Truschnig Martini M.
Published: March 2007

A new fully automated nephelometric immunoassay for Iipoprotein(a) quantification in human serum was evaluated using the Behring Nephelometer Analyzer. The assay exhibited a good linearity in the concentration range of 110‐1,770 mg/l; at higher concentrations, samples were automatically diluted by a factor of 4. The method is simple, robust, and shows an excellent stability of the calibration curve over several weeks. Intraassay and day‐to‐day coefficients of variation were 2% and 4.5%, respectively. The method correlated well with electroimmunodiffusion (r = 0.977; n = 123; P = 0.0001). Unspecific turbidity as expressed by an elevated blank value occurred in 3% of all freshly measured samples (n = 392). Storage of the samples for 1 week at 4°C had no significant influence on the results. Frozen sera, on the other hand, cannot be assayed by this method. We believe that this assay is well suited for use in clinical routine work. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunoenzymatic assay that measures the expression of murine histocompatibility antigens in macrophages and lymphocytes
Authors: Fragoso G. , Valdez F. , Rosenstein Y. , Govezensky T. , Larralde C. , Sciutto E.
Published: March 2007

A convenient—simple, sensitive, rapid and reproducible—enzyme immunoassay to measure H‐2 particulated and solubilized cellular antigens is described. Cellular antigens were measured by ELISA through the binding of specific biotinylated antibodies and streptoavidin‐peroxidase conjugate to cells in suspension. Endogenous peroxidase activity of activated cells was inhibited by addition of sodium azide and H2O2 in acid conditions. The assay proved capable of distinguishing between two cell lines (EL–4/H–2b and P815/H–2d) and even between the cells of three congenic mouse strains (BALB/B, H–2b, BALB/c, H–2d, and BALB/K, H‐2k) and was sensitive to as few as 2.5 × 104 cells/well. Results were comparable to those obtained with FACS. An inhibition version of this assay was found to be very useful for the detection of H–2 antigens present in whole antigen cells extracts. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Breaking the asymptomatic phase of HIV‐1 infection
Authors: Tomar Russell H.
Published: March 2007

AIDS typically consists of three phases: (1) an acute, infectious mononucleosis‐like syndrome followed by (2) a prolonged asymptomatic stage ending in (3) the appearance of frank AIDS. The asymptomatic phase may last for years and its presence suggests a persistent conflagration between the virus and the host's immune response. There is considerable evidence that an immune response develops but the response is ultimately inadequate. From the work of others as well as our own, we have constructed a hypothesis which attempts to explain some aspects of the immune response. We propose that HIV‐1 preferentially infects a subset of CD4+ lymphocytes which are then either destroyed or altered in their biological functions. Further, we suggest that this subset represents the CD4+ TH1 lymphocyte population. By decreasing the quantity of IL‐2 and interferon‐gamma produced by TH1 lymphocytes, the production of cytokines by TH2 cells is increased. One of the cytokines produced by TH2 lymphocytes is IL‐10, a polypeptide with significant inhibitory properties towards lymphocytes. Sera from patients with frank AIDS have significant lymphocyte inhibitory activities some of which operate through IL‐10. Thus, a gradual shift to a TH2‐type response and release of increasing amounts of inhibitors eventually prevents the host from replacing destroyed cells or mounting new and appropriate immune responses. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Purification of psa‐act complex: Characterization of psa‐act complex by various chromatographic procedures
Authors: Wu James T. , Zhang Ping , Bandhauer Michael E. , Wilson Lorraine , Astill Mark E. , Colemere Jeffrey T.
Published: March 2007

We have explored various chromatographic procedures with the intention of establishing an isolation procedure that would allow us to isolate a large quantity of PSA‐ACT (prostate specific antigen‐α1‐antichymotrypsin) complex either from patients' sera or from incubation mixtures of free PSA and protease inhibitors. We found that at pH 7.2, both free PSA and PSA‐ACT molecules are negatively charged and bind to the DEAE‐Sepharose column. However, they could be separated from each other using a linear gradient of NaCl at pH 7.2. Both free PSA and PSA‐ACT molecules were also found to be retained by the Con A Sepharose column because of the carbohydrate moiety of the PSA molecule. These two molecules were not separable by Con A chromatography. These two molecules apparently differ in their isoelectric points and were well separated by chromatofocusing using a pH gradient from pH 9 to 6. It appears that chromatofocusing can also be used to identify the isoforms of free PSA because of its high resolving power. The large difference in molecular size between free PSA and PSA‐ACT complex allowed their separation by gel filtration chromatography on a column containing either S‐100, S‐200, or S‐300 gel. S‐200 gel appeared to be the best for the separation of free PSA from PSA‐ACT and for the removal of other contaminating serum proteins. We believe that the combined use of these chromatographic procedures would permit the isolation of a large quantity of pure PSA‐ACT complex that should facilitate the preparation of more specific antibodies as well as a calibrator for the establishment of a new generation of PSA assay.©1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nh2‐Terminal sequence of novel pancreatic stone protein‐related protein in human urine
Authors: Kato Masanori , Tatemichi Noriyuki , Hayakawa Shinobu , Hayakawa Tetsuo
Published: March 2007

In a previous report, we detected the novel PSP‐related protein in urine from a patient with diabetic nephropathy. This protein was different from PSP S1 and PSP S2‐5 on the elution points of Mono S chromatography. To investigate the NH2‐terminal sequence, we purified this protein by reverse phase chromatography and performed amino acid analysis. The results showed that the NH2‐terminal sequence of this protein was one residue (arginine) longer than that of PSP.©1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. S1.
Platelet indices in athletes performing a race in altitude environment
Authors: Banfi Giuseppe , Marinelli Marcello , Roi Giulio Sergio , Giacometti Marino
Published: March 2007

Physical activity could modify platelet count and platelet indices. Previous reports showed modifications after exercise linked to type and duration of sports performances. The shortage of studies in this field stems from the crucial methodological problem of EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)‐dependent, mean platelet volume modifications: the published data on platelets count and indices were obtained by using a light‐scattering system without standardization of the period elapsed from drawing to measurement. We present a study of platelet indices performed in athletes participating in an extreme' performance, a race of 30 km in altitude (6,700 m of ascents and descents), using standardized measurement by an aperture‐impedance instrument transferred in the field. The platelet count and mean platelet volume significantly increased in athletes, whereas platelet distribution width decreased. The mean initial values were 240.6*109/L for platelet count, 8.79 fL for mean platelet volume, and 15.79% for platelet distribution width. The correspondent mean final values were 288.4*109/L, 9.14 fL, and 15.48%. The modifications of platelet count and indices were always in the physiological reference range. The entity and the rapidity of platelet count and indices modifications suggest that the more probable source of variation is the recruitment of noncirculating pools of mature platelets. Strenuous exercise does not show abnormal changes of platelet parameters.©1995 wiley‐Liss, inc.
Evaluation of recombinant ro/ssa, la/ssb, sm, and u1 rnp autoantigens in clinical diagnosis
Authors: Lerma José Gerardo García , Ramos María Jesús , Sequí Julia , Mendoza Antonio Zea
Published: March 2007

This study comprises an analysis of the diagnostic usefulness of Ro/SSA, La/SSB, Sm and U1 RNP autoantigens obtained by DNA recombinant technology. We studied the presence of these autoantibodies in 33 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 30 normal individuals by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using recombinant autoantigens and by Western immunoblot with these same antigens obtained from natural sources (rabbit thymus and human spleen). The strength of agreement between results found with these two techniques was moderate in the case of anti‐Ro/SSA (κ = 0.474, P < 0.001) and anti‐U1 RNP (κ = 0.566. P < 0.001) antibodies and almost perfect in the case of anti‐La/SSB (κ = 0871, P < 0.001) and anti‐Sm (κ = 0.833, P < 0.001). Furthermore, analysis of the disagreement between the two techniques evidenced a measurement bias for anti‐Ro/SSA and anti‐U1 RNP antibodies (Mc NEMAR'S statistic 13 and 11, respectively) whose direction, though difficult to define in the absence of a gold standard for such determinations, could be accounted for by the ELISA technique's greater tendency to produce positive results. Our conclusion is that the diagnostic usefulness of recombinant La/SSB and Sm autoantigens has been satisfactorily proven, whereas the case of the Ro/SSA and U1 RNP systems should be subject to further in‐depth study of the autoepitopes recognised and the possible modifications which the latter might undergo as a result of their obtension from procariotic sources.©1995 wiley‐Liss, inc.
Thyroid function testing evaluated on three immunoassay systems
Authors: Christenson Robert H. , Duh Show‐Hong , Clarisse Diana E. , Zorn Nancy
Published: March 2007

Total thyroxine (TT4), tracer uptake, thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), and free T4 (FT4) testing was examined in the ACS 180, Abbott IMx, and Stratus II systems. TSH sensitivity studies demonstrated that the ACS and IMx are second‐generation assays; the Stratus showed between first‐ and second‐generation performance. Except for one control below the detection limit, TSH imprecision was 3–10%. TSH accuracy was adequate for all systems. TT4 imprecision was 4–7%, except for the lowest control with the Stratus (18%). TT4 method agreement showed bias of about 20% between the systems. TT4 accuracy was compromised at the low end for the Stratus II, but was satisfactory otherwise. FT4 imprecision was 20% for the Stratus, <5% for the IMx and 6% for the ACS. Uptake assays showed imprecision of 5–10%. The laboratory diagnosis indicated by each system's FT4 and calculated FT4 Index results were compared to determine diagnostic accuracy. In routine specimens, different clinical classifications were observed for 25% of specimens with the ACS, 19% with the Stratus, and 7% with the IMx; in the altered protein group, the Stratus showed 9% discordant results, the ACS showed 3%, and the IMx 0%. Of the three systems examined here, the Abbott IMx system showed the best overall performance.©1995 wiley‐Liss, inc.
Novel homogeneous enzyme immunoassay: Chitinase activity enhancement immunoassay (caeia)
Authors: Sekine Sakari , Watanabe Takeshi , Tanaka Hirosato
Published: March 2007

A novel homogeneous enzyme immunoassay has been developed that takes advantage of the observation that the activity of a bacterial chitinase could be enhanced by the binding of a ligand conjugate of a monoclonal antibody to the enzyme (L‐MAbchi). The enhancement was suppressed by an antiligand antibody (AbL). Free ligand molecules competed for AbL combining with L‐MAbchi, and the suppression of the enhancement was reduced. Thus the concentration of free ligand could be estimated. Biotin was used as a ligand in this model experiment. When this monoclonal antibody was conjugated with a ligand (e.g., biotin), we furthermore found that the enhancement could be suppressed by an antiligand antibody (AbL). When free ligand molecules are added to the system, competition with L‐MAbchi results to reduce the suppression of enhancement.©1995 wiley‐Liss, inc.
Evaluation of an automated urine chemistry reagent‐strip analyzer
Authors: Lott John A. , Johnson William R. , Luke Karl E.
Published: March 2007

We evaluated the Miles Inc., Clinitek Atlas Automated Urine Chemistry Analyzer for 11 tests: bilirubin, color, glucose, ketones, leukocyte esterase, nitrite, occult blood, pH, protein, specific gravity, and urobilinogen. The instrument uses a roll of reagent strips affixed to a clear plastic support; urine specimens are automatically pipetted onto these strips. The instrument measures the pads' color using reflectance colorimetry. Specific gravity is measured using a fiberoptic refractive index method. Four hospitals participated in the evaluation, and tests were performed only on fresh urine samples. We found the instrument easy to use; it has walk‐away capability with up to 40‐specimen loading capacity plus spaces for STATs, calibrators and controls. We found good comparability with chemical tests and other nonreagent strip procedures, as well as good agreement with the Miles Inc. Clinitek 200+ urine chemistry analyzer and visual reading of the Miles Inc. Multistix Reagent Strips. The Clinitek Atlas is rugged and reliable, and is suitable for a high‐volume urinalysis laboratory.©1995 wiley‐Liss, inc.
Generation, purification, and characterization of a recombinant source of human prostate‐specific antigen
Authors: Bei Roberto , Paranavitana Chrysanthi , Milenic Diane , Kashmiri S. V. S. , Schlom Jeffrey
Published: March 2007

Human prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), a 33‐ to 34‐kDa serine proteinase with extensive homology to glandular kallikrein, is a single‐chain glycoprotein that contains 7% carbohydrate. The presence of PSA in the serum of patients with prostatic cancer is widely employed as a marker of disease status. PSA has also been thought of as a possible target for use in active specific immunotherapy protocols. To date, the source of PSA employed has been seminal fluid from different individuals; this has raised concerns about differences among PSA batches for standardization of assays. This report is the first description of the production and the purification of a recombinant source of PSA using a baculovirus expression system. A baculovirus recombinant of the cDNA encoding the full length PSA was expressed in insect cells yielding two major immunoreactive products of 31 and 29 kDa. The latter size conforms to the molecular weight of a core preprotein deduced from the sequence of the cDNA insert. The larger protein represents the N‐linked glycosylated form of the preprotein. Western blot analysis showed that both the glycosylated and aglycosylated forms of PSA reacted with a polyclonal and two different monoclonal antibodies specific for PSA. bV‐PSA, like commercially available PSA, showed also low‐molecular‐weight immunoreactive products when culture supernatants were concentrated or taken through steps of purification. bV‐PSA was purified to a final product consisting of a major 29‐kDa protein and a minor 31‐kDa protein. This recombinant source of PSA will make it possible to further evaluate the biological, serological, and functional properties of the antigen and may serve as a more standardized source for serum assays to detect PSA. bV‐PSA may also serve as a potential source for immunogen in active specific immunotherapy protocols.
Pcr in clinical diagnosis
Authors: Ronai Zeev , Yakubovskaya Marina
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this review is to provide an up‐to‐date summary of the clinical application of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based methodologies.
Dna extraction and amplification from giemsa‐stained blood smears
Authors: Yokota Masaharu , Tatsumi Noriyuki , Tsuda Izumi , Yano Ikuya
Published: March 2007

DNA extraction was attempted from Giemsa‐stained blood smears on glass slides that had been stored for several years. High molecular weight DNA bands were clearly visible after electrophoresis when DNA was extracted from specimens stored up to 2 years. Specimens more than 4 years old demonstrated a smeared pattern, suggesting degeneration of the DNA, but they could be rescued by PCR amplification using primers of HLA‐DQA1 genes. The recovery could be pursued even in 11‐year‐old specimens.
Induction of transforming growth factor‐β1 by basic fibroblast growth factor in rat C6 glioma cells and astrocytes is mediated by MEK/ERK signaling and AP‐1 activation
Authors: Dhandapani Krishnan M. , Khan Mohammad M. , Wade F. Marlene , Wakade Chandramohan , Mahesh Virendra B. , Brann Darrell W.
Published: March 2007

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) play an important role in proliferation, differentiation, and survival of malignant gliomas and in normal glial cell biology. Because of these critical roles, potential interactions between these key growth factors were investigated. We previously demonstrated that bFGF potently stimulates TGF‐β1 release from rat glioma cells. The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the mechanism(s) of this regulatory effect, establish its functional importance, and examine whether it extends to nontransformed rat hypothalamic astrocytes (RHA). The results revealed that RHA express the high‐affinity FGF(1–4) receptors, and similarly to glioma cells, bFGF stimulated TGF‐β1 release in an isoform‐specific manner. A mediatory role for ERK signaling in bFGF‐induced TGF‐β release was suggested by the fact that MEK1 inhibition prevented this effect. Additionally, bFGF enhanced MEK1/2 phosphorylation and ERK activation/nuclear translocation, which culminated in increased activity of AP‐1‐mediated gene transcription. bFGF markedly induced TGF‐β1 mRNA levels in an isoform‐specific manner, an effect that was dependent on MEK/ERK/AP‐1 signaling. Functionally, bFGF‐induced proliferation of glioma cells was attenuated by MEK/ERK inhibition or immunoneutralization of TGF‐β1, suggesting that this pathway may have important implications for brain tumor progression. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unilateral hippocampal blockade reveals that one hippocampus is sufficient for learning a passive avoidance task
Authors: Cimadevilla J.M. , Mendez M. , Mendez‐Lopez M. , Arias J.L.
Published: March 2007

Understanding hippocampal participation in memory processes is one of the goals in neuroscience research. By blocking the hippocampus unilaterally in Wistar rats, we assessed the contribution of this brain structure to memory in a passive avoidance task. Subjects were distributed into four groups. Group 1 received tetrodotoxin (TTX) in the right hippocampus during acquisition and retrieval phases. Group 2 had the same procedure as group 1, except that the contralateral hippocampus was blocked during retrieval. Subjects from group 3 acquired the task with saline (both hippocampi intact) and retrieved with the right hippocampus inactivated. Finally, group 4 received TTX unilaterally 2 min after acquisition to determine the hippocampal role in consolidation. Results showed that group 2 was impaired, compared with the other groups, during retrieval. These findings reveal that the hippocampal contribution to this task differs from that in other tasks considered to be hippocampus dependent. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A role for minerals in the development of superficial scald of apples
Authors: Wills Ronald B. H. , Scott Kevin J.
Published: March 2007

The addition of EDTA to Granny Smith apples reduced the incidence of superficial scald at concentrations of <0.5 μmol/fruit but increased the disorder at higher concentrations. It is suggested that EDTA initially inactivates a mineral that is catalysing the development of scald but at higher concentrations it also inactivates a mineral which is inhibiting scald. The addition of copper and cobalt were found to increase scald while barium and strontium reduced the disorder.
Influence of supranutritional vitamin E supplementation in the feed on swine growth performance and deposition in different tissues
Authors: Asghar Ali , Gray J Ian , Miller Elwyn R , Ku Pao‐Kwen , Booren Alden M , Buckley D Joseph
Published: March 2007

The effects of supranutritional vitamin E supplementation in the diet on the growth performance of pigs, the deposition of α‐tocopherol in different tissues and the activity of certain blood enzymes were investigated. Pigs receiving diets supplemented with 100 and 200 IU vitamin E kg−1 feed exhibited significant improvement in daily body gain and feed conversion efficiency in the early growth phase (P < 0.05). With advance in age. the growth curves of pigs fed the higher levels of vitamin E tended to become parallel to that of the control group (10 IU vitamin E kg−1 feed), suggesting that the advantage gained in body weight in the early growth period actually persisted in subsequent phases.

The concentrations of α‐tocopherol in blood plasma and different tissues (heart, kidney, lung and liver) significantly increased (P<0.05) with increasing levels of dietary vitamin E. However, the activity of lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase in blood plasma was not influenced by the levels of vitamin E supplementation.
Evaluation of the isotope dilution technique for determining ileal endogenous nitrogen excretion in the rat
Authors: Moughan Paul J , Buttery Peter J , Essex Christine P , Soar John B
Published: March 2007

Three body amino acid pools (plasma free, plasma bound and small intestinal tissue) were evaluated as precursors to allow measurement using the isotope dilution technique of endogenous excretion at the terminal ileum of animals. Eighteen 150‐g bodyweight rats were given either a protein‐free, an enzyme‐hydrolysed casein based or a synthetic amino acid based diet, and digesta were collected from the terminal ileum. The animals had been subjected to a constant 8‐day infusion of tritiated leucine via subcutaneously implanted osmotic mini pumps. Specific activities (dpm nM−1 leucine) of the ileal digesta and the plasma free, plasma bound and small intestinal tissue pools were determined and the specific activity for the ileal digesta was expressed as a proportion of the respective precursor pool value to give dilution factors for each dietary treatment. For the protein‐free diet, where the ileal nitrogenous flow is endogenous by definition, the dilution factor for an appropriate precursor pool would be unity.

For the hydrolysed casein and synthetic amino acid diets, in which the peptides and amino acids are expected to be virtually completely absorbed anterior to the ileum, high dilution factors (close to unity) would be expected. The mean dilution factors based on the plasma free amino acid pool were untenably low (0‐2 to 0‐3). For the plasma bound amino acid pool mean dilution factors of 1‐3 were found for animals given the protein‐free and synthetic amino acid diets, while a lower value (0‐7) was obtained for the hydrolysed casein treatment. Untenably high factors (1‐5) were found with the small intestinal tissue for the protein‐free and synthetic amino acid treatments, while the corresponding value for the hydrolysed caseinfed rats was unity. The dilution factor data within treatments were highly variable, and none of the pools examined gave consistently reliable results and could thus be accepted as a valid precursor pool for the endogenous proteins.