bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating three‐dimensional vehicle motion in an outdoor scene using stereo image sequences
Authors: Leung Mun K. , Huang Thomas S.
Published: March 2007

We propose a motion estimation system that uses stereo image pairs as the input data. To perform experimental work, we also obtain a sequence of outdoor stereo images taken by two metric cameras. The system consists of four main stages, which are (1) determination of point correspondences on the stereo images, (2) correction of distortions in image coordinates, (3) derivation of 3D point coordinates from 2D correspondences, and (4) estimation of motion parameters based on 3D point correspondences. For the first stage of the system, we use a four‐way matching algorithm to obtain matched point on two stereo image pairs at two consecutive time instants (ti and ti + 1). Since the input data are stereo images taken by cameras, it has two types of distortions, which are (i) film distortion and (ii) lens distortion. These two distortions must be corrected before any process can be applied on the matched points. To accomplish this goal, we use (i) bilinear transform for film distortion correction and (ii) lens formulas for lens distortion correction. After correcting the distortions, the results are 2D coordinates of each matched point that can be used to derive 3D coordinates. However, due to data noise, the calculated 3D coordinates to not usually represent a consistent rigid structure that is suitable for motion estimation; therefore, we suggest a procedure to select good 3D point sets as the input for motion estimation. The procedure exploits two constraints, rigidity between different time instants and uniform point distribution across the object on the image. For the last stage, we use an algorithm to estimate the motion parameters. We also wish to know what is the effect of quantization error on the estimated results; therefore an error analysis based on quantization error is performed on the estimated motion parameters. In order to test our system, eight sets of stereo image pairs are extracted from an outdoor stereo image sequence and used as the input data. The experimental results indicate that the proposed system does provide reasonable estimated motion parameters.
An imaging device that uses the wavelet transformation as the image reconstruction algorithm
Authors: Letcher John H.
Published: March 2007

Many imaging devices have been constructed that use fourier transform techniques for image reconstruction as well as for image analysis. The basis functions in the fourier transform space are sinusoids. These are not localized. Therefore it should not be expected that highly localized behavior of a signal be characterized well using functions distributed evenly throughout the interval of the integral transform. Also, the phase cancellations of a conventional impulse signal are not handled well by fourier techniques. On the other hand, the basis functions of the wavelet transformation are highly localized, i.e., these exhibit compact support, yet are orthonormal. The multispectral decomposition algorithm of the wavelet transformation is used to analyze the signal returning from the reflections of a single ultrasonic transducer with a focused beam and operated in the focal zone. The choice of frequency depends upon the mutually antagonistic factors of penetration (αf–2) and resolution (αf). The signal sent into the sample should not be the impulse response signal used in conventional devices; rather, it should be a time‐reversed replica of a single or a linear combination of the most highly localized basis function wavelets. The returning signal is a sequence of translates of the wavelets plus perhaps some lower‐resolution wavelets. The translations are proportational to the time of flight of the signal. The wavelet transformation is superb at discriminating the population of each of these translates which is identically the A‐scan signal. The transmitted signal, which is a time‐reversed single wavelet or a linear combination of wavelets, is not easy to produce. Inexpensive ultrasound transducers have resonances which make it difficult to produce any desired wave form. Wavelet shape is far from arbitrary. Precise wave shaping is performed by measuring the impulse response function of the transducer; then, the desired wave shape is convolved with the inverse of the measured impulse response function of the transducer. This produces the signal to be presented to the pulse generation circuit. Care is taken to damp the impulse response so that there are no zeros. The received signal is sampled at an even rate which is carefully chosen to match the time delay of one wavelet translate to the next. B‐scan, C‐scan, and volume imaging are easily accomplished using a sequence of A‐scan data, all by conventional techniques. A single A‐scan requires less than 2 ms to perform and reconstruct with a high‐speed arithmetic unit which was designed in conjunction with this work and is now commercially available.
Application of microwave pulse‐echo radar imaging to the nondestructive evaluation of buildings
Authors: Mast J. E. , Lee H. , Murtha J. P.
Published: March 2007

We present a microwave pulse‐echo radar imaging technique and its application to nondestructive evaluation of structural configurations of the New York State Capitol building. The survey procedure consists of scanning surface areas of the building with the radar data acquisition system, imaging with the backward‐propagation method, and forming an image of the investigated region. This technique not only provides depth and other distance measures, but also provides high‐resolution range and azimuthal spatial visualization of the subsurface region. The results demonstrate the capability of the technique for estimating the depth, span, and size of beams, girders, flues, and masonry arches in floors as well as columns in walls. Also, the mechanical stepping and thickness of outer granite facings on the walls, and the presence of wire mesh and reinforcement in concrete, are also discernible.©1993 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Microwave image understanding and its applications to various imaging schemes
Authors: Li Hsueh‐Jyh , Huang Gen‐Tay
Published: March 2007

Three methods of producing microwave images of rotating objects are reviewed and correlated. These are range Doppler processing, coherent tomographic imaging, and a physical optics‐based technique using the Bojarski identity. We use an understanding of these processes to interpret and predict the appearances of images reconstructed from data collected over specified frequency and angular windows. Based on the understanding of the fundamental image formation processes, we have developed several image reconstruction algorithms applicable when objects are situated in different environments. Examples are bistatic imaging, near field imaging, moving target imaging, irregularly spaced array imaging, and imaging of objects embedded in a homogeneous dielectric background. Numerical and experimental results have verified the effectiveness of our proposed algorithms.©1993 John Wiley & Sons Inc
ISAR motion compensation using the burst derivative measure as a focal quality indicator
Authors: Bocker Richard P. , Jones Scott A.
Published: March 2007

Inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) is an imaging technique that shows great promise in classifying airborne targets in real‐time under all weather conditions. The success of classifying targets using ISAR is predicated upon forming highly focused radar images of these target. Efforts to develop highly focused radar imaging computer software have been challenging, mainly because the imaging depends on and is affected by the motion of the target. Computationally intensive motion compensation algorithms have been developed to remove the unwanted degrading effects of target motion. Those particular motion compensation algorithms which require the use of a space domain focal quality indicator (e.g., entropy) to determine image sharpness as processing proceeds pay a severe computational penalty due to the large number of two‐dimensional fast Fourier transforms (2D‐FFTs) which must be computed. This is due to the fact that the actual processing of ISAR data is done primarily in the spatial frequency domain and not in the space domain where the final ISAR image is displayed. If a focal quality indicator could be developed to measure image sharpness in the spatial frequency domain, then the computational burden introduced by the numerous 2D‐FFTs could be greatly relaxed. This article describes the use of a new focal quality indicator called the burst derivative measure for determining ISAR image sharpness in the spatial frequency domain. Tests have been performed on simulated as well as actual ISAR data using both the burst derivative measure and the entropy measure. Results indicate that the burst derivative measure, when used in conjunction with the entropy measure, can greatly reduce the number of 2D‐FFTS presently required in these motion compensation algorithms.©1993 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Motion and structure from line correspondences: Some further results
Authors: Holt Robert J. , Netravali Arun N.
Published: March 2007

A great deal of dynamic computer vision literature deals with the determination of motion and structure of rigid objects by observing points on objects at two or more time instants. In some situations point correspondences may not be available but line correspondences may be, such as when edges on the objects are visible. In this article we investigate the multiplicity of solutions when various numbers of line correspondences among several snapshots of an object are known. The case given the most consideration is that in which the object is moving with constant motion, that is, with constant rotation about an unknown center which itself is moving with constant translation. In this case we show that there is a unique solution given three line correspondences over three frames, two line correspondences over four frames, and one line correspondence over five or more frames. With fewer line correspondences there are infinitely many solutions. In the more general case where the motion is allowed to vary between successive frames, we show that there can be no more than 600 solutions to motion and structure with six line correspondences over three views, and that there is a unique solution with seven line correspondences. Several examples are given to illustrate our results.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Phase and phase‐difference ionospheric radio tomography
Authors: Kunitsyn V. E. , Andreeva E. S. , Razinkov O. G. , Tereshchenko E. D.
Published: March 2007

Variants of ray ionospheric radiotomography (RT) are considered: the phase RT based on measuring the absolute phase or the total electron content and the phase‐difference RT based on measuring the phase‐difference RT based on measuring the phase difference or Doppler frequency. The phase technique is shown to give poor results with typical errors in determining the absolute phase. The previously developed technique of the phase‐difference RT is presented.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
The grand alliance transport system for terrestrial HDTV transmission
Authors: Joseph Kuriacose , Smith Terry , Zdepski Joel , Deiss Michael S.
Published: March 2007

This article describes the format and functionality of the Grand Alliance transport bistream that is intended for the terrestrial broadcast of digital HDTV in the United States. The article begins with an introduction of the HDTV system selection process within the United States, and proceeds with an overview of the Grand Alliance and a description of the Grand Alliance system architecture. The transport functionality and format is the described in detail. The format is based on the use of a fixed‐length packet structure, with packet headers to support different communications protocol functions. The advantages of the packetization approach are first described. The format choice is shown to take into account several diverse system requirements including flexibility, robustness, scalability, and simple interoperability of the bitstream with other transmission media such as ATM network. Higher‐layer protocol functionality in the format, including the ability to extract programs, and the elements of these programs, including the video, audio, and data components, from a multiplexed bitstream, are described. The details of the packet format and the functionality of the different header fields are presented.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Facts and fiction: Some aspects regarding the design of digital television cameras using CCD image sensors
Authors: Hamalainen Jukka , Leacock Tom , Westerink Peter
Published: March 2007

The architecture of CCD sensors and their relationship to digital processing of images requires a re‐examination of traditional analog signal processing conventions. Digital processing now requires different methods of analysis and processing in areas such as frequencv response, noise, and scanning techniques. The purpose of this paper is to encourage researchers and engineers to forget some of the traditional analog practices and have them step up to the future with an open mind.©1994 John Wiley & Sons Inc
Study of the degree of III conditioning of the phase space of pencil‐beam radiotherapy using singular value decomposition
Authors: Lefkopoulos D. , Grandjean P. , Laouar A. , Schlienger M.
Published: March 2007

Dose distribution optimization algorithms are necessary in pencil‐beam radiotherapy to exploit efficiently the multiple parameters of this powerful irradiation technique. We propose as an optimization technique singular value decomposition (SVD) analysis, which allows the measurement of ill conditioning of the stereotactic radiotherapy inverse problem and yields optimal weights for conformal treatment. Our approach to dose distribution optimization is to recover estimates of the minibeams weights from well‐defined previsional dose matrices to study the influence of the different parameters on the stereotactic radiotherapy inverse procedure. The adjustment of the different parameters of the stereotactic irradiation to the “SVD optimizer” procedure is realized taking into account the ratio of the quality reconstruction to the calculation time. It will permit a more efficient use of the SVD optimizer in clinical applications with real three‐dimensional lesions. We show the efficiency of the SVD optimizer in analyzing and predicting ill conditioning in stereotactic radiotherapy and in recognizing the topography of the different beams to create an optimal vector containing the beam weights (reconstructed weighting vector).
Effects of large vessels in functional magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5T
Authors: Duyn Jeff H. , Frank Joseph A. , Ramsey Nick R. , Mattay Venkata S. , Sexton Roy H. , Tallent Kathleen A. , Weinberger Daniel R. , Moonen Chrit T. W. , Van Gelderen Peter
Published: March 2007

To further investigate the effects of large vessels on the activation maps generated with functional magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5T, we studied activation of the human visual and motor cortex using a multitude of dedicated FLASH and echo‐planar imaging (EPI) scanning techniques. Both slice and volume scans were performed to assess relative contributions of T2* effects, in‐flow, and phase‐shift effects, specifically within and around the larger vessels (around 1 mm in diameter). The contrast mechanism in single‐slice FLASH studies appeared to be predominantly sensitive to in‐flow and phase effects of the blood water within these larger vessels, and their relative contributions were dependent on experimental parameters and vascular geometry. The contrast mechanism in gradient echo EPI studies was governed predominantly by T2* effects in tissue water (and to a lesser extent cerebrospinal fluid) surrounding the larger vessels.
HST image restoration developments at the ST‐ECF
Authors: Adorf H.‐M. , Hook R. N. , Lucy L. B.
Published: March 2007

When spherical aberration was found to be degrading the performance of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), great interest in image restoration methods arose in the astronomical community. The Richardson‐Lucy (RL) method became the preferred tool for restoring such data which typically has Poisson noise characteristics and a low signal‐to‐noise ratio. Subsequently, corrective optics were inserted into the telescope which is now operating close to the original specifications. However, generalized RL methods and some new techniques based on projections onto convex sets have proved useful both for the present HST data, which are often insufficiently sampled, and also for many other classes of astronomical images. The ST‐ECF staff have worked extensively in this and related areas, and some of these developments and their application to real data are described.
Gentamicin‐loaded bioresorbable films for prevention of bacterial infections associated with orthopedic implants
Authors: Aviv Moran , Berdicevsky Israela , Zilberman Meital
Published: March 2007

Adhesion of bacteria to biomaterials and the ability of many microorganisms to form biofilms on foreign bodies are well‐established as major contributors to the pathogenesis of implant‐associated infections. Treatment of bone infection remains problematic, due to the difficulty of systemically administered antibiotics to locally penetrate bone. The current research addresses this issue by focusing on the development and study of novel gentamicin‐loaded bioresorbable films designed to serve as “coatings” for fracture fixation devices and prevent implant‐associated infections. Poly(L‐lactic acid) and poly (D,L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) films containing gentamicin were developed through solution processing. The effects of polymer type, drug content, and processing conditions on the drug release profile were studied with respect to film morphology. The examined films generally exhibited a burst effect followed by a moderate approximately constant rate of release. The drug contents in the surrounding medium exceeded the required minimal effective concentration. Various gentamicin concentrations that were released from the films with time exhibited efficacy against bacterial species known to be involved in orthopedic infections. The developed systems can be applied on the surface of any metallic or polymeric fracture fixation device, and may therefore comprise a significant contribution to the field of orthopedic implants. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Modeled gravitational unloading induced downregulation of endothelin‐1 in human endothelial cells
Authors: Infanger Manfred , Ulbrich Claudia , Baatout Sarah , Wehland Markus , Kreutz Reinhold , Bauer Johann , Grosse Jirka , Vadrucci Sonia , Cogoli Augusto , Derradji Hanane , Neefs Mieke , Küsters Sabine , Spain Mike , Paul Martin , Grimm Daniela
Published: March 2007

Many space missions have shown that prolonged space flights may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Using a three‐dimensional clinostat, we investigated human endothelial EA.hy926 cells up to 10 days under conditions of simulated microgravity (µg) to distinguish transient from long‐term effects of µg and 1g. Maximum expression of all selected genes occurred after 10 min of clinorotation. Gene expression (osteopontin, Fas, TGF‐β1) declined to slightly upregulated levels or rose again (caspase‐3) after the fourth day of clinorotation. Caspase‐3, Bax, and Bcl‐2 protein content was enhanced for 10 days of microgravity. In addition, long‐term accumulation of collagen type I and III and alterations of the cytoskeletal alpha‐ and beta‐tubulins and F‐actin were detectable. A significantly reduced release of soluble factors in simulated microgravity was measured for brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, tissue factor, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and interestingly for endothelin‐1, which is important in keeping cardiovascular balances. The gene expression of endothelin‐1 was suppressed under µg conditions at days 7 and 10. Alterations of the vascular endothelium together with a decreased release of endothelin‐1 may entail post‐flight health hazards for astronauts. J. Cell. Biochem. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 1439–1455, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inducible cAMP early repressor splice variants ICER I and IIγ both repress transcription of c‐fos and chromogranin A
Authors: Misund Kristine , Steigedal Tonje S. , Lægreid Astrid , Thommesen Liv
Published: March 2007

Inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER) splice variants are generated upon activation of an alternative, intronic promoter within the CREM gene. ICER is proposed to downregulate both its own expression, and the expression of other genes, containing cAMP‐responsive promoter elements. To examine the biological function of the two ICER splice variants, I and IIγ, in comparable cellular systems, we generated HEK 293 cell variants with controllable overexpression of either ICER I or IIγ. These two splice variants contain two different variants of DNA binding domains. Overexpression of either ICER I or IIγ strongly represses CRE‐driven reportergene transcription but not AP1‐ or NFκB‐driven transcription. Thus, high specificity is maintained even at ICER overexpression. We here show that both ICER I and IIγ repress Pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP)‐mediated c‐fos mRNA induction with similar efficiency, indicating that both splice variants play an important role in modulating PACAP‐mediated transcriptional activation of the c‐fos gene. ICER I and IIγ also repress cAMP‐mediated activation of chromogranin A (CgA), indicating that these splice variants may function as negative feedback regulators in CgA synthesis. The proliferation rate was not altered in cells overexpressing ICER I or IIγ. Thus, in the epithelial cells HEK 293, ICER I and IIγ splice variants seem to exert similar biological function. J. Cell. Biochem. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 1532–1544, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DFT and ab initio calculations on two reactions between hydrogen atoms and the fire suppressants 2‐H heptafluoropropane and CF3Br
Authors: Lee Edmond P. F. , Dyke John M. , Chow Wan‐Ki , Chau Foo‐Tim , Mok Daniel K. W.
Published: March 2007

Reaction enthalpies and barrier heights of the reactions CF3Br + H → CF3 + HBr {reaction (1)} and CF3CHFCF3 + H → CF3CFCF3 + H2 {reaction (2)} have been calculated at the near state‐of‐the‐art ab initio level, and also by employing the B3LYP, BH&HLYP, BB1K, MPW1K, MPWB1K and TPSS1KCIS functionals. In addition, the integrated molecular orbital + molecular orbital (IMOMO) method has been used to study reaction (2). The ab initio benchmark values of the reaction enthalpy (298 K) and barrier height (0 K) of reaction (2) are reported for the first time {−(0.7 ± 0.7) and 13.3 ± 0.5 kcal/mole respectively}. When density functional theory (DFT) results are compared with ab initio benchmarks for both reactions (1) and (2), the MPWB1K functional is found to have the best performance of the six functionals used. The IMOMO method with the RCCSD/aug‐cc‐pVTZ and/or RCCSD(T)/aug‐cc‐pVTZ levels, as the high levels of calculation on the model system, gives reaction enthalpies and barrier heights of reaction (2), which agree with ab initio benchmark values to within 1 kcal/mole. Computed key geometrical parameters and imaginary vibrational frequencies of the transition state structures of reactions (1) and (2) obtained at different levels of calculation are compared. The magnitudes of the computed imaginary vibrational frequencies of the transition states of both reactions considered are found to be very sensitive to the levels of calculation used to obtain them. The heat of formation (298 K) of CF3CFCF3 calculated at the near state‐of‐the‐art level has a value of −(318 ± 3) kcal/mole. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2007
Theoretical calculations: Can Gibbs free energy for intermolecular complexes be predicted efficiently and accurately?
Authors: Isayev Olexandr , Gorb Leonid , Leszczynski Jerzy
Published: March 2007

The theoretical study has been performed to refine the procedure for calculations of Gibbs free energy with a relative accuracy of less than 1 kcal/mol. Three benchmark intermolecular complexes are examined via several quantum‐chemical methods, including the second‐order Moller‐Plesset perturbation (MP2), coupled cluster (CCSD(T)), and density functional (BLYP, B3LYP) theories augmented by Dunnings correlation‐consistent basis sets. The effects of electron correlation, basis set size, and anharmonicity are systematically analyzed, and the results are compared with available experimental data. The results of the calculations suggest that experimental accuracy can be reached only by extrapolation of MP2 and CCSD(T) total energies to the complete basis set. The contribution of anharmonicity to the zero point energy and TΔSint values is fairly small. The new, economic way to reach chemical accuracy in the calculations of the thermodynamic parameters of intermolecular interactions is proposed. In addition, interaction energy (De) and free energy change (ΔA) for considered species have been evaluated by Carr‐Parrinello molecular dynamics (CPMD) simulations and static BLYP‐plane wave calculations. The free energy change along the reaction paths were determined by the thermodynamic integration/”Blue Moon Ensemble” technique. Comparison between obtained values, and available experimental and conventional ab initio results has been made. We found that the accuracy of CPMD simulations is affected by several factors, including statistical uncertainty and convergence of constrained forces (TD integration), and the nature of DFT (density functional theory) functional. The results show that CPMD technique is capable of reproducing interaction and free energy with an accuracy of 1 kcal/mol and 2–3 kcal/mol respectively. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2007
Advances in diagnostic clinical microbiology: An overview
Authors: Sun Tsieh
Published: March 2007

The advances in medical technology in recent years has brought highly progressive developments into diagnostic microbiology. Therefore, it is not feasible to enumerate all the recent advances in clinical microbiology; attempts are made here to discuss only those developments of clinical relevance.

The two major aspects of advances in microbiology are the discovery or isolation of new pathogens and the breakthrough in new technology. Of equal importance are some known pathogens which have taken on new roles either as the cause of a new clinical syndrome or as the leading cause of a known clinical syndrome.
The murine subrenal capsule human tumor implant assay
Authors: Stratton Joan A.
Published: March 2007

The murine subrenal capsule assay can be used to estimate the susceptibility of fresh human tumor explants to various antineoplastic agents. As a result, the assay has been proposed as a rapid and accurate preclinical laboratory evaluation to determine the sensitivity of human tumors to chemotherapeutic drugs and thereby to assist the direction of cancer patient treatment. The subrenal capsule assay is described in detail and the predictive accuracy of the assay in the clinical setting is discussed.
Homogeneous enzyme immunoassay for macromolecular antigens using hybrid antibody
Authors: Ashihara Yoshihiro , Nishizono Isao , Suzuki Hiromasa , Kasahara Yasushi
Published: March 2007

A new homogeneous enzyme immunoassay for the determination of macromolecular antigens has been developed based upon competitive enzyme inhibition using hybrid antibody‐containing anti‐ligand and anti‐enzyme inhibitory antibodies.

The hybrid antibody was prepared by the reaction of anti‐glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) mouse IgG maleimide with anti‐human IgM goat IgG‐SH. In the absence of the antigen, the hybrid antibody inhibits the enzyme activity. On the other hand, in the presence of an excess amount of antigen, the hybrid antibody binds to the antigen and is unable to bind with the enzyme.

The hybrid antibody inhibited 80% of the original activity of enzyme and saturated the inhibition of G6PDH within 10 min. The enzyme activity was proportional to the concentration of human IgM. The measurable range for IgM was 78 μg/ml to 1 mg/ml. Human IgG present in the serum did not affect this method.
Diagnostic immunohistochemistry of lymphoma and related disorders: Practical aspects of frozen section technique and interpretation
Authors: Robbins Bruce A.
Published: March 2007

The diagnosis and classification of malignant lymphomas increasingly relies upon analysis of lymphocyte markers. Immunohistochemical techniques applied to frozen sections of lymphoid tissue have the advantage of allowing simultaneous evaluation of both immunologic phenotype and histologic/cytologic features. This paper describes the methodology currently employed in the Scripps institution for lymphocyte marker studies on tissue biopsies, including avidin‐biotin complex (ABC) immunoperoxidase and direct immunoperoxidase techniques. Emphasis is placed on technical aspects of the procedures and pitfalls in interpretation. A detailed listing of monoclonal antibodies against lymphocyte markers is provided, including technical features and important cross reactivities. The results of 60 cases analyzed over a one‐year period are presented. Essential immunophenotypic features of lymphoid hyperplasia, B‐cell lymphomas, T‐cell lymphomas, Hodgkin's disease, thymomas, and undifferentiated carcinoma are discussed.
Diagnostic immunohistochemistry of epithelial neoplasms: Practical aspects of technique and interpretation
Authors: Robb James A.
Published: March 2007

The immunohistochemistry of routine formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded malignant neoplasms is a useful adjunct to morphologic diagnosis. This paper describes the rationale for and the technique of the immunohistochemical profiles that are routinely used for malignant epithelial neoplasms at the Green Hospital. Emphasis is placed on the organ of origin of metastatic neoplasms and on the type of differentiation present (e.g., glandular, squamous, neuroendocrine). Clinical relevance is discussed when appropriate (e.g., breast, lung, and urothelial carcinomas).
Use of a sensitive enzyme immunoassay for human thyrotropin in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism
Authors: Gupta Manjula K. , Seifarth Karen , Deodhar Sharad D. , Schumacher O. P.
Published: March 2007

A sensitive, simultaneous sandwich enzyme immunoassay for TSH was evaluated especially for its ability to distinguish hyperthyroid patients from the euthyroid population. A total of 140 patient samples was analzyed by this assay as well as with a two‐step sandwich radioimmunoassay. The diagnostic sensitivity of the thyrotropin assay was 92.5% and the specificity was 88%. False negatives by thyrotropin assay included two patients with Graves' disease who were being treated with propranolol at the time of testing and one patient who was considered hyperthyroid while receiving synthroid. Twelve patients with elevated free thyroxine index levels were considered euthyroid and 50% of these had thyrotropin values that were undetectable; most were elderly patients with nonthyroidal illnesses. Although the thyrotropin enzyme immunoassay had good sensitivity and precision for the detection of hyperthyroidism, our data suggest the limitation of a single thyrotropin determination in establishing the euthyroid state, especially in elderly patients with associated nonthyroidal illnesses and hyperthyroxinemia.
Clinical update: Cross‐reactive idiotypes and the genetic origin of rheumatoid factors
Authors: Silverman Gregg J. , Fong Sherman , Chen Pojen P. , Carson Dennis A.
Published: March 2007

Rheumatoid factors (RFs) are present in a wide spectrum of diseases, but the diversity of these antibodies may vary greatly according to the underlying disease process. To analyze the diversity of these molecules, we have recently developed in the Scripps laboratory three cross‐reactive idiotypic reagents against human monoclonal rheumatoid factors. These reagents detect unique markers associated with the kappa light chain variable region of the antigen binding site of these molecules. We have characterized the expression of the three cross‐reactive idiotypes in serum RFs of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, and seropositive elderly. The autoantibodies from Sjogren's syndrome patients and from normal patients were restricted in heterogeneity and frequently displayed two or more of the cross‐reactive idiotypes. In contrast, the RFs from rheumatoid arthritis patients expressed only one of the three cross‐reactive idiotypic markers, suggesting greater structural diversity. The presence of shared idiotypes implies a common origin of the light chains from a single light chain gene or closely related genes. Cross‐reactive idiotypes are useful diagnostic tools that distinguish the rheumatoid factors from different clinical processes and may provide insights concerning disease pathogenesis.
Glycated albumin by affinity chromatography and radioimmunoassay in the management of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Woo Jannie , Weinstock Ruth S. , Ozark Carole , Sunderji Shiraz
Published: March 2007

A sensitive and specific assay for glycated albumin (GALB) has been developed. Ten μL of serum is fractionated by affinity chromatography on a boranateagarose column and quantitated by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Assay linearity is 15.6–1,000 ng of albumin. Dose‐response curves prepared from both glycated albumin and albumin standard are superimposable in the range of 31–500 ng, equivalent to 0.1–15% of GALB assuming total albumin concentration to be 50 g/L. Recovery was 93 ± 3%. Sensitivity is 16 ng. Precision (CV) is 14.3% with patient sample duplicates (n = 57) and 15.6% when assaying controls (n = 21).

Our reference interval (RI) for GALB is 0.43–1.19% of total albumin. GALB levels are significantly elevated (p < 0.0001) in random samples from 37 diabetics. GALB correlates positively with both glycated hemoglobin (GHB) (r = 0.901) and serum glucose concentration (r = 0.706). In 10 diabetic patients followed serially with fasting and postprandial glucoses, GALB, and GHB, GALB was more sensitive than GHB in reflecting short‐term changes in glycemic control.

Our data demonstrate the value of GALB measurements when the assessment of glycemic control over a short period of time is important, such as in monitoring the results of changing therapy.
A highly sensitive enzyme immunoassay of anti‐insulin antibodies in human serum
Authors: Kohno Takeyuki , Ishikawa Eiji , Sugiyama Satoru , Nakamura Syuji , Kanemaru Yoshimasa
Published: March 2007

A highly sensitive enzyme immunoassay of anti‐insulin antibodies in human serum is described. Serum samples were subjected to successive processes of the incubation with insulin, the dextran‐charcoal treatment to remove free insulin, the precipitation of insulin anti‐insulin antibodies by polyethylene glycol, the acid treatment of the precipitates to inactivate anti‐insulin antibodies, and the measurement of insulin by sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique. By this enzyme immunoassay, anti‐insulin antibodies were demonstrated in most of serum samples from patients who had been treated with insulin for 0.6–24 months. The detection limit of anti‐insulin IgG in human serum was 1,000 to 3,000‐fold less than that obtained by the previously reported enzyme immunoassay, in which an insulin‐coated polystyrene ball was incubated with diluted serum and subsequently with (antihuman IgG γ‐chain) Fab'‐horseradish peroxidase conjugate. The present enzyme immunoassay may be useful for the measurement of antibodies for not only insulin but also other antigens that are not precipitated by polyethylene glycol.
A highly sensitive sandwich enzyme immunoassay of human thyroid‐stimulating hormone in dried blood on filter paper discs for mass‐screening of neonatal hypothyroidism
Authors: Hashida Seiichi , Tanaka Koichiro , Kohno Takeyuki , Ishikawa Eiji , Umehashi Hozo , Hayashida Toshiyuki , Mori Toru , Imura Hiroo , Ogawa Hiroshi
Published: March 2007

A sensitive sandwich enzyme immunoassay of human thyroid‐stimulating hormone (hTSH) in dried blood on filter paper discs is described for mass‐screening of hypothyroidism in the neonates. One 3 mm filter paper disc per assay, on which 2.7 μl of neonatal blood had been dried, was incubated in buffer to extract hTSH. One monoclonal anti‐hTSH β‐subunit IgG1‐coated polystyrene ball per assay was incubated with the extract and, after washing, with affinity‐purified rabbit antihuman chorionic gonadotropin Fab′‐β‐D‐galactosidase conjugate. Bound enzyme activity was assayed by fluorimetry using 4‐methylumbelliferyl‐β‐D‐galactoside as a substrate. The assay range of hTSH was 0.037–370 mU/l of blood, and blood hTSH levels in normal neonates were 1.33 ± 0.95 (SD) mU/l (range: 0.18–6.45 mU/l; n = 652). Therefore, this assay with a single protocol may detect not only primary hypothyroidism with abnormally high blood hTSH levels, but also secondary (pituitary) and tertiary (hypothalamic) hypothyroidism with abnormally low blood hTSH levels in the neonates, whereas the previously described enzyme immunoassays can detect only primary hypothyroidism. And this assay may be easily automated with one‐step immunoreaction.
Ganglioside gm2 as a target structure recognized by human natural killer cells
Authors: Ando Iwao , Hoon Dave B. , Golub Sidney H. , Irie Rieko F. , Pattengale Paul K.
Published: March 2007

This report investigates the possibility that the ganglioside GM2 is a common target structure for natural killer cells. A subpopulation of lymphocytes, NK cells may play a role in vivo in controlling the growth of certain tumors.
Natural antibodies in sera of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Fadhel Ferid Ben , Guilbert B. , Matsiota P. , Avrameas S. , Gorgi Y. , Ayed K.
Published: March 2007

Sera obtained from fifty‐five patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and from four patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) previously shown by immunofluorescence and by double immunodiffusion to possess antinuclear antibodies, were tested for the presence of natural antibodies of IgG, IgA, and IgM isotypes. Antibody activity to actin, myosin, DNA, TNP, albumin, and tubulin was examined, using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It was found that, in comparison with the antibody titers in normal sera, most of the SLE and MCTD sera possessed statistically greater amounts of IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies directed against all the antigens tested. Furthermore, the IgG, IgA, and IgM antibody activity to DNA and TNP, compared to that found with all the other antigens, was significantly higher. Antibodies reacting with a saline extract of calf thymus (ECT) were studied by ELISA and by immunodiffusion. No correlation was observed between the natural antibody titers and the serum antibody levels to ECT detected either by ELISA or by immunodiffusion.
Review of the standard tests for syphilis and evaluation of a new commercial elisa, the syphilis bio‐enzabead test
Authors: Larsen Sandra A. , Hambie Edith A. , Cruce Donna D.
Published: March 2007

To date, there are eight serologic tests considered Standard for the serodiagnosis of syphilis; however, the syphilis Bio‐EnzaBead test is the first commercially available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the confirmation of a reactive nontreponemal test result in the serodiagnosis of syphilis. The Bio‐EnzaBead has a sensitivity of 95.2% in untreated syphilis when read at 405 nm with 80% of the 1 + optical density (OD) used as the breakpoint OD between reactive and nonreactive results. This sensitivity is comparable to the sensitivity of the microhemag‐glutination assay (MHA‐TP) of 97.6% in untreated syphilis. The specificity of the syphilis Bio‐EnzaBead when read as described above is 94.7%, compared with the 99.3% of the MHA‐TP and the 98.1% of the fluorescent treponemal antibody‐absorption (FTA‐ABS) test. Heating of the specimens did not adversely affect the test outcome, and it eliminated background readings seen with the negative control beads.
Analysis of erythrocytic polyamines by automated reverse‐phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Killian Carl S. , Vargas Farida P. , Murphy Gerald P. , Beckley Somnulu , Chu T. Ming
Published: March 2007

A sensitive and reproducible method for quantitation of polyamines in erythrocytes by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is described. Spermidine and spermine are first converted to fluorescent dansyl derivatives and are then separated in less than 15 minutes on a C18 reverse‐phase cartridge using methanol in water mobile phase. Sensitivity of the method is 20 pmol with recoveries that average 96% and 95% for spermidine and spermine, respectively. Precision study revealed an average mean coefficient of variation of 5.42 ± 2.95 (mean ± S.D.) from four levels of the polyamines (8.2 to 354.9 nmol/g hemoglobin [Hgb]). The normal ranges for 30 apparently healthy men and women, aged 20–60 years, were 2.9–33.7 nmol/g Hgb (± 2 S.D. from mean) for spermidine and 0‐20.9 nmol/g Hgb for spermine. The quantity of putrescine was negligible. Feasibility of this method was evaluated in serial specimens from an advanced‐stage patient with prostate cancer who was receiving multiple‐modality therapy. Results revealed that this HPLC method can be used in quantifying circulating polyamines in clinical specimens.
The porphyrias: Clinical and laboratory aspects
Authors: Campbell Bruce
Published: March 2007

The porphyrias, a group of diseases caused by enzyme deficiencies in the heme biosynthetic pathway, are reviewed. The clinical features and pathophysiology of each porphyria are discussed. Analytical techniques used in both screening and definitive investigations are reviewed. The final sections integrate the previous information to provide a protocol to assist in planning the investigation of any particular case of porphyria according to clinical presentation and in interpreting the results of laboratory investigations.
Glucocorticoid receptors in normal human lymphocytes and human leukemia and lymphoma cells
Authors: Steiner Ann E. , Wittliff James L.
Published: March 2007

Glucocorticoids have been used widely in the treatment of leukemia; however, response has been variable. Glucocorticoid receptors have been implicated as the molecular basis of response to this hormonal therapy. Glucocorticoid receptor levels have been found to extend over a wide range in normal human lymphocytes, as well as in various leukemia and lymphoma cells. In several cases, correlations have been made between the concentration of glucocorticoid receptors and patient response to endocrine therapy. Other at tempts have been made to correlate glucocorticoid receptor levels with age, sex, immunological subtype of cell, and hematological classification of leukemia.
Ciguatera fish poisoning
Authors: Hokama Y.
Published: March 2007

Ciguatera fish poisoning following consumption of a variety of fishes presents a distinct complex of polymorphous symptoms, including gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea), neurological (primarily parasthesia, dysesthesia), and cardiovascular (bradycardia, hypotension, tachycardia). The fishes involved include herbivores (surgeonfish) and carnivores (e.g., snapper, grouper, barracuda, jack, amberjack). Clinical symptoms seem to differ according to whether toxicity is caused by herbivores or carnivores, that is, there seem to be differences between the gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms associated with herbivores, and the gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular symptoms following consumption of carnivores. The final structure of ciguatoxin (CTX) from a carnivore species (moray eel livers) has been recognized as a lipid polyether closely related to other polyethers from dinoflagellates (okadaic acid, brevetoxin, maitotoxin, scaritoxin), to sponges (okadaic acid and norhalichondrin A), and to the streptomyces (antibiotics, monocarboxylic polyethers). Pharmacological studies suggest that, like the antibiotic polyether ionophores, ciguatoxin (Na +) and its related polyethers likewise affect cell membrane and electrolyte imbalances. Screening of toxin fishes for ciguatoxin and related polyethers may soon be a reality employing monoclonal antibodies in the stick enzyme immunoassay. Research in human diagnostic tests and treatment of afflicted individuals is presently limited for ciguatera poisoning.
Skin‐sniffing/ion mobility spectrometric analysis: A potential screening method in clinical toxicology
Authors: Lawrence A. H. , Nanji A. A. , Taverner J.
Published: March 2007

This paper deals with the detection of drug residues on the hands of subjects who simulated overdose situations. The results demonstrate that detectable amounts of particulate matter are transferred to the hands when certain types of drugs are handled in the manner of a person taking them. The residues are recovered from the hands by means of a suction probe and thermally desorbed directly into an ion mobility spectrometer (IMS). The IMS was shown to respond selectively to the drugs investigated, and thus ion mobility peaks can be used as markers for the presence of these drugs. Mass characterization of ions giving particular mobility peaks was achieved by coupling the IMS to a quadrupole mass spectrometer (IMS/MS). The major drugs detected were codeine, benzodiazepines, acetaminophen, dimenhydrinate, and some tricyclic antidepressants. The method was tested in a hospital environment. It has the potential as a preliminary screening test for drugs in emergency patients suspected of drug overdose.
Immunotherapy of cancer: A perspective view
Authors: Reisfeld R. A.
Published: March 2007

The current intense interest in cancer immunotherapy is largely based on the fact that progress in the clinical treatment of solid tumors has been less spectacular than anticipated, whereas efforts in basic and preclinical cancer research made some rather remarkable strides during the last two decades.

The major challenge that now faces research investigators in cancer immunotherapy is to determine the functional characteristics of potentially new molecules, important for cancer immunotherapy in both structural and functional terms, to attempt a correlation of their structure with function and to develop, at the basic and preclinical levels, approaches suitable for potential therapy regimens that can be transferred to the clinic for further development.
Sera from AIDS patients contain multiple factors that suppress in vitro proliferation of lymphoid cells
Authors: Hennig Anne K. , John Patricia A. , Blair Donald C. , Tomar Russell H.
Published: March 2007

In previous studies we found that sera from patients with AIDS and AIDS‐related disorders inhibit mitogen‐stimulated proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors. We have extended these studies to examine the effect of AIDS sera on proliferation of various IL‐ 2independent, well‐characterized T4‐positive and T4‐negative continuous human lymphoid cell lines. The results suggest that AIDS serum inhibition results from several mechanisms, one involving the induction of prostaglandin E2.
Bilayer lipid membrane‐based electrochemical biosensors
Authors: Tien H. Ti
Published: March 2007

This paper presents a brief review on the bilayer lipid membrane (BLM) system and its potential applications as a chemical/biosensor. The applications reviewed include substrate‐enzyme complexes, antigen‐antibody‐complement interactions, electrochemical assay of drugs, as well as light‐sensitive BLMs for optical sensors. Suggestions for improvements in the development of BLM‐based electrochemical biosensors for the clinical setting are also presented.