The LCx HIV RNA quantitative assay (Abbott Laboratories, Delkenheim, Germany) was compared with the Versant HIV-1 RNA 3.0 (bDNA) assay (Bayer, Tarrytown, NY) and the COBAS Amplicor HIV-1 Monitor v1.5 test (Roche Diagnostics, Branchburg, NJ), using plasma samples of various viral load levels from HIV-1-infected patients. Considering the lower limit of the linear range of 50 copies/ml of both assays, the detection range of the LCx was 127/151 (84.1%) versus the 131/151 (86.8%) of the bDNA 3.0 assay, while overall agreement between the two assays was 93.4% (141/151). LCx and bDNA 3.0 results were found to be strongly correlated (r = 0.96). The fitted regression line was described by the equation log10(LCx copies/ml) = 0.05 + 1.06 x log10(bDNA 3.0 copies/ml) with 95% CI for the estimated slope and intercept at 1.01, 1.12 and -0.16, 0.26, respectively. Similarly, the detection range of the LCx was 115/148 (77.7%) versus the 128/148 (86.5%) of the Monitor v1.5 test. A 91.2% concordance (135/148) was observed between these two assays at a cut-off of 50 copies/ml. LCx and Monitor v1.5 results were highly correlated (r = 0.96). The fitted regression line was described by the equation log10(LCx copies/ml) = 0.06 + 1.03 x log(10)(Monitor v1.5 copies/ml) with 95% CI for the estimated slope and intercept at 0.97, 1.09 and -0.16, 0.28, respectively.
Although multivariate analytic techniques might identify diagnostic patterns that are not captured by univariate methods, they have rarely been used to study the neural correlates of Alzheimer's disease (AD) or cognitive impairment. Nonquantitative H2(15)O PET scans were acquired during rest in 17 probable AD subjects selected for mild severity [mean-modified Mini Mental Status Examination (mMMS) 46/57; SD 5.1], 16 control subjects (mMMS 54; SD 2.5) and 23 subjects with minimal to mild cognitive impairment but no dementia (mMMS 53; SD 2.8). Expert clinical reading had low success in discriminating AD and controls. There were no significant mean flow differences among groups in traditional univariate SPM Noxel-wise analyses or region of interest (ROI) analyses. A covariance pattern was identified whose mean expression was significantly higher in the AD as compared to controls (P = 0.03; sensitivity 76-94%; specificity 63-81%). Sites of increased concomitant flow included insula, cuneus, pulvinar, lingual, fusiform, superior occipital and parahippocampal gyri, whereas decreased concomitant flow was found in cingulate, inferior parietal lobule, middle and inferior frontal, supramarginal and precentral gyri. The covariance analysis-derived pattern was then prospectively applied to the cognitively impaired subjects: as compared to subjects with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) = 0, subjects with CDR = 0.5 had significantly higher mean covariance pattern expression (P = 0.009). Expression of this pattern correlated inversely with Selective Reminding Test total recall (r = -0.401, P = 0.002), delayed recall (r = -0.351, P = 0.008) and mMMS scores (r = -0.401, P = 0.002) in all three groups combined. We conclude that patients with AD may differentially express resting cerebral blood flow covariance patterns even at very early disease stages. Significant alterations in expression of resting flow covariance patterns occur even for subjects with cognitive impairment. Expression of covariance patterns correlates with cognitive and functional performance measures, holding promise for meaningful associations with underlying biopathological processes.
Sakkas V, Pirli M, Vassilopoulou S, Kaviris G, Kranis C, Voulgaris N, Papadimitriou P, Lagios E, Makropoulos K. Crustal Deformation in the Broader Atalanti Area (Greece). XXIX General Assemply of the European Seismological Commission. 2004:12-17.
In the present paper, we have calculated the outgoing longwave radiation at the top of the atmosphere (OLR at TOA) using a deterministic radiation transfer model, cloud data from ISCCP-D, and atmospheric temperature and humidity data from NCEP/NCAR reanalysis, for the seventeen-year period 1984-2000. We constructed anomaly time-series of the OLR at TOA, as well as of all of the key input climatological data, averaged in the tropical region between 20°N and 20°S. We compared the anomaly time-series of the model calculated OLR at TOA with that obtained from the ERBE S-10N (WFOV NF edition 2) non-scanner measurements. The model results display very similar seasonal and inter-annual variability as the ERBS data, and indicate a decadal increase of OLR at TOA of 1.9±0.2Wm-2/decade, which is lower than that displayed by the ERBS time-series (3.5±0.3Wm-2). Analysis of the inter-annual and long-term variability of the various parameters determining the OLR at TOA, showed that the most important contribution to the observed trend comes from a decrease in high-level cloud cover over the period 1984-2000, followed by an apparent drying of the upper troposphere and a decrease in low-level cloudiness. Opposite but small trends are introduced by a decrease in low-level cloud top pressure, an apparent cooling of the lower stratosphere (at the 50mbar level) and a small decadal increase in mid-level cloud cover.
BACKGROUND: Oxidative damage is one of the major factors that lead to cell damage, organ dysfunction and death in sepsis. Thus, an attractive candidate for the pharmacologic treatment of the septic syndrome is desferoxamine (DFX), an antioxidant iron chelator used for the removal of iron and a potential free radical scavenger.
OBJECTIVE: The impact of DFX administration on the survival of septic animals. The effect on cell integrity and cycle of vital organs.
METHODS: Sepsis was induced in 40 rats using the cecal ligation and puncture method (CLP) and 20 rats randomly received twice subcutaneously DFX (total dose: 40 mg/kg). Rats were monitored for 36 h and all vital organs were harvested for pathology examination and immunohistochemical detection of Bax, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-8 apoptosis regulating proteins.
RESULTS: Mean survival in the DFX group was 34.2 h (median 36.0, S.D. 4.4) and 30.2 h (median 36.0, S.D. 9.1) in the control group (p=0.04), while 36 h after follow up 85% of the DFX-treated rats and 55% of placebo rats were alive (p=0.04). Expression of pro-apoptotic bax protein was significantly increased in the heart, liver and kidney of animals in the DFX group compared to the control group.
CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with the polymeric iron chelator DFX significantly increases survival of septic subjects and alters the expression of bax, an apoptosis regulating protein in certain organs (heart, liver and kidney).
The erosional processes depend on various variables such as lithology, topography,drainage system, rock structure and climatic conditions. The quantitative evaluation on some of the above geological and geomorphological parameters is of primaryimportance for the purpose of developing erosion risk maps. These maps can become useful tools for developing appropriate strategies on environmental protection, hazard assessment and regional planning. The island of Sifnos, in Cyclades, was chosen as a case study, where in the final map of the sub-basins of this island, erosion risk distribution is presented.
Thalidomide-based regimens (TBR) are now widely used for the treatment of refractory multiple myeloma and have shown significant activity in newly diagnosed patients. In some patients with secretory disease, we observed discrepancies between the reduction of the monoclonal protein levels and the plasma cell infiltration in the bone marrow and/or extramedullary sites of relapse after treatment with TBR. The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence and analysis of this phenomenon in all myeloma patients treated with TBR in our Institution. Patients and methods: We studied all patients who received TBRs and had a follow up time of at least 6 months. Partial response (PR) was defined as at least 50% reduction of serum myeloma protein and soft tissue plasmacytomas and/or > 90% reduction of Bence Jones protein excretion and minor response as a > 25% reduction of the serum myeloma protein or > 50% reduction of the Bence Jones myeloma protein. Results: Between July 1999 and July 2002 we treated 94 patients with advanced myeloma and 9 patients with newly diagnosed disease with TBR. Sixty-seven patients (66%) achieved either partial or minor response. In 4 patients (3 with advanced and 1 with newly diagnosed myeloma) the bone marrow was heavily infiltrated by plasma cells, despite a decrease of the paraprotein levels ranging from 38% to 68%. This discordance between monoclonal protein levels and bone marrow plasmacytosis was noted in 6% of patients rated as responders and in 11% of responding patients who actually had a repeat bone marrow assessment. Furthermore 6 responding patients, after achieving a PR which lasted between 5 and 9 months, relapsed with bone marrow (all cases), and extramedullary (2 cases) plasmacytosis, without increase of serum and/or urine monoclonal protein. This hyposecretory conversion was noted in 12.5% of relapsing patients. Conclusion: Our data indicate that after treatment with TBR some patients with myeloma show discordant responses of the monoclonal protein levels and the bone marrow or extramedullary plasmacytosis. If our data are confirmed, they may have practical implications for assessment of response and follow up of patients treated with TBR.
OBJECTIVES: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) may colonize haemodialysis patients, but their epidemiology in this population is not well defined. Within the few last years, VRE strains have emerged and are increasingly isolated in the nosocomial environment in Greece, but colonization of dialysis patients has never been evaluated before. This study sought to determine the epidemiology of VRE colonization within this high-risk population and define the risk factors.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: During a 4 month period, rectal swabs or faecal specimens were collected from 334 consecutive outpatients, who were treated at four independent dialysis units located in the same area of Athens and referring patients to the same local hospital. The relatedness of isolates was defined by molecular typing, and demographic and clinical patient data were recorded.
RESULTS: Thirteen multiresistant Enterococcus faecium vanA strains were isolated corresponding to a colonization frequency of 3.9%. They were separated into seven clusters: type A (two strains), type B (six strains) and types C to G (one strain each). Type B strains originated from three units, while a single unit demonstrated four type B and two type A strains. Univariate statistical analysis revealed that prior hospitalization (P=0.001), prior administration of antimicrobials (P=0.026) and male gender (P=0.019) were associated with VRE colonization.
CONCLUSIONS: In Greece, haemodialysis patients are colonized with VRE at a low frequency. The predominance of one clone and its isolation from several units strongly indicate interfacility transmission of strains, most probably within a health care environment shared by all patients.
Rhinoviruses are the most common precipitants of the common cold and have been associated with different infections of the respiratory tract, such as otitis media and sinusitis. They have also been implicated in the induction of acute asthma exacerbations, most of which are preceded by a common cold. Although in several occasions, mainly in immunocompromised hosts, severe lower respiratory tract infections have been attributed to rhinovirus infections, it is still unclear whether and to what extent these viruses contribute as pathogens in community-acquired pneumonia. Current mechanistic data suggest that rhinoviruses could be the cause of pneumonia in immunocompetent subjects. This notion is supported by epidemiological evidence, however, more clinical studies are needed to assess the actual burden.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) subtypes A and B are present either simultaneously or alternate during yearly epidemics. It is still not clear whether clinical severity of acute bronchiolitis differs between the two subtypes. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to subtype RSV in previously healthy infants hospitalized with RSV bronchiolitis during a winter epidemic. A severity index based on heart rate, respiratory rate, wheezing, difficulty in feeding and oxygen saturation was calculated upon admission. Infants infected with RSV subtype-A were found to have a significantly higher (more severe) clinical score than those infected with RSV-B. There was no statistically significant difference in duration of hospitalization or need of intensive care. Boys and infants younger than 3 months of age were also more severely affected than girls or older infants, respectively. These results support the notion that RSV-A-induced bronchiolitis is more severe than RSV-B-induced one, in agreement with the majority of previously published studies.
In this paper the area of the lakes Iliki and Paralimni are examined (Viotia). The research focuses on the influence of the tectonic on the morphological structure of the area and on the formation of the lakes, with fieldwork and the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems). For this purpose the azimuth directions ofthe rupture zones were calculated with the use of ‘geoline orientation’ algorithm. The analysis of the morphological slopes and of the aspect was performed with the use of the algorithm ‘Triangulation with smoothing’. The outcome of the fault direction concurs with the Pliocene faults direction, as well as the tectonic Fokiko - Viotiko trough direction. The Quaternary faults direction concurs with the recent rupturezone. In general, the dominating morphological slopes are of 0-10%, while the higher slopes are found at the north and east. The aspect that concerns the direction of the morphological slope concurs with the main rupture zone of the tectonic Fokiko - Viotiko trough direction, and the recent rupture zone. The orientation of Iliki lake corresponds to the former rupture zone; the orientation of Paralimni lake corresponds to the later one.
The spin-orbit interaction can cause a nonvanishing density of states (DOS) within the minority-spin band gap of half metals around the Fermi level. We examine the magnitude of the effect in Heusler alloys, zinc-blende half metals, and diluted magnetic semiconductors, using first-principles calculations. We find that the ratio of spin-down to spin-up DOS at the Fermi level can range from below 1% (e.g., 0.5% for NiMnSb) over several percents {[}4.2% for (Ga,Mn)As] to 13% for MnBi. This gives a spin polarization P at E-F ranging from above 99% for NiMnSb to Papproximate to92% for (Ga,Mn)As and to Papproximate to77% for MnBi.
Using steady, axisymmetric, ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) we analyze relativistic outflows by means of examining the momentum equation along the flow and in the transfield direction. We argue that the asymptotic Lorentz factor is γ∞∼μ-σ M , and the asymptotic value of the Poynting-to-matter energy flux ratio—the so-called σ function—is given by σ∞/(1 +σ∞) ∼σ M /μ, where σ M is the Michel’s magnetization parameter and μc 2 the total energy-to-mass flux ratio. We discuss how these values depend on the conditions near the origin of the flow. By employing self-similar solutions we verify the above result, and show that a Poynting-dominated flow near the source reaches equipartition between Poynting and matter energy fluxes, or even becomes matter-dominated, depending on the value of σ M /μ.
Using steady, axisymmetric, ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) we analyze relativistic outflows by means of examining the momentum equation along the flow and in the transfield direction. We argue that the asymptotic Lorentz factor is γ∞∼μ-σ M , and the asymptotic value of the Poynting-to-matter energy flux ratio—the so-called σ function—is given by σ∞/(1 +σ∞) ∼σ M /μ, where σ M is the Michel’s magnetization parameter and μc 2 the total energy-to-mass flux ratio. We discuss how these values depend on the conditions near the origin of the flow. By employing self-similar solutions we verify the above result, and show that a Poynting-dominated flow near the source reaches equipartition between Poynting and matter energy fluxes, or even becomes matter-dominated, depending on the value of σ M /μ.
The elaboration of analytical microzoning studies involves a multidisciplinary approach comprising geological, geotechnical, seismological, geophysical and dynamic soil analysis data. In an attempt to incorporate the maximum available amount of information and in the view of the continuously expanding use of GIS, as a tool for analyzing and integrating data, a new software environment called AUTOSEISMO-GEOTECH has been developed for handling these multi-parameter data. This user friendly package is presently implemented for the cities of Heraklion (Crete island) and Thiva (province of Beotia) in Greece.
Emerin is an inner nuclear membrane protein that is mutated or not expressed in patients with X-linked Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (X-EDMD/EMD). Cytoplasmic localization of emerin in cultured cells or tissues has been reported, although this remains a controversial issue. Tubular aggregates (TAs) are pathological structures seen in the sarcoplasm of human skeletal muscle fibers in various disorders. The TAs derive from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and represent, probably, an adaptive response of the SR to various insults to the muscle fibers. In the present study, we present immunohistochemical evidence of emerin expression in TAs. Muscle biopsies with tubular aggregates from four male, unrelated patients were studied. The percentage of muscle fibers containing TAs varied between 5 and 20%. Routine histochemistry revealed intense reaction of TAs with NADH-TR, AMPDA, and NSE, but not with COX, SDH, myosin ATPase (pH 9.4, 4.3, 4.6), PAS, and Oil red O staining. Immunohistochemical study revealed strong immunostaining of TAs with antibodies against emerin and 7 SERCA2-ATPase. Immunostaining of TAs was also seen with antibodies against heat shock protein and dysferlin, but not with antibodies to lamin A, dystrophin, adhalin, beta, gamma, delta sarcoglycans, and merosin. These results suggest that emerin, an inner nuclear membrane protein, is present at the TAs. The interpretation and significance of this finding is discussed in relation to experimental data suggesting that normal emerin localization at the inner nuclear membrane depends on lamin A and mutations in the N-terminal domain of emerin cause mislocalization of the protein to the sarcoplasmic membranes.
Water sampleswere collected for coccolithophore analysis at coastal environments, in August 2002, from 7 stations in the Gulf of Kastro (Andros Island, middle Aegean Sea, Eastern Mediterranean). The studies on coccolithophore regional dynamics in the middle Aegean Sea coastal environments have revealed a unique heterococcolith–holococcolith combination coccosphere indicating a life-cycle association of the taxa Syracosphaera halldalii in Gaarder and Hasle 1971 ex Jordan and Green 1994 and Calyptrolithina divergens var. tuberosa (Heimdal 1980) Jordan et al. 1993. Consequently their systematic taxonomy is emended and the name Syracosphaera halldalii is considered as the appropriate one for the well-established association.
Equation (5) in § 2 should readf(x)=[2xlnx+x+1-2x2+(4∊0γx)22(1+4∊0γx)(1-x)]P(1/4γ2,1,x),x=∊4∊0γ2(1-∊/γ),(5)as given by F. C. Jones (ApJ, 561, 111 [2001]). In our original paper, the factor (1-x) in the final term inside the bracket was missing. The correct form was used in all computations.
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in young children is most commonly associated with viral infections; however, the role of viruses in CAP of school-age children is still inconclusive.|Seventy-five school-age children hospitalized with CAP were prospectively evaluated for the presence of viral and bacterial pathogens. Nasopharyngeal washes were examined by polymerase chain reaction for viruses and atypical bacteria. Antibody assays to detect bacterial pathogens in acute-phase and convalescent-phase serum samples were also performed.|A viral infection was identified in 65% of cases. Rhinovirus RNA was detected in 45% of patients; infection with another virus occurred in 31%. The most common bacterial pathogen was Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which was diagnosed in 35% of cases. Chlamydia pneumoniae DNA was not detected in any patient; results of serological tests were positive in only 2 patients (3%). Mixed infections were documented in 35% of patients, and the majority were a viral-bacterial combination.|The high prevalence of viral and mixed viral-bacterial infections supports the notion that the presence of a virus, acting either as a direct or an indirect pathogen, may be the rule rather than the exception in the development of CAP in school-age children requiring hospitalization.
The purpose of this paper is to present the evaluation of a web based nursing documentation system which helps nursing professionals and students to study ICNP Greek beta 2 version and to create nursing diagnoses, interventions and outcomes by selecting relevant terms from ICNP. This advanced web-based ICNP browser enables the authentication of the user, and the creation of a type of nursing care plan through the use of ICNP. It provides different ways for creating nursing diagnoses, interventions and outcomes, by selecting relevant ICNP terms through the tree-structure view, index and search components of the tool. The evaluation of this nursing documentation system is carried out by a survey among nursing professionals working in nursing units in hospitals. The results which have derived from this survey are presented. Moreover, conclusions regarding the future changes that should be made in the system are reported.
Eighteen subjects (ages 18-35) underwent event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (efMRI) while performing a delayed-match-to-sample (DMS) task before and immediately after 48 h of sustained wakefulness. The DMS trial events were: a 3-s study period of either a one-, three-, or six-letter visual array; a 7-s retention interval; and a 3-s probe period, where a button press indicated whether the probe letter was in the study array. Ordinal Trend Canonical Variates Analysis (OrT CVA) was applied to the data from the probe period for trials with six-letter study lists prior to and immediately following sleep deprivation to find an activation pattern whose expression decreased with sleep deprivation in as many subjects as possible, while being present in both conditions. The first principal component of the OrT analysis identified a covariance pattern whose expression decreased as a function of sleep deprivation in 17 of 18 subjects (p<0.001). While overall expression of the pattern showed a systematic decrease with sleep deprivation, the brain regions that make up the pattern show covarying increases and decreases in activation. Regions that decreased their activation were noted in the parietal (BA 7 and 40), temporal (BA 37, 38 and 39) and occipital (BA 18 and 19) lobes; regions that increased their activation were noted in the cerebellum, basal ganglia, thalamus and the anterior cingulate gyrus (BA 32). The reduction in pattern expression with sleep deprivation for each subject was related to the change in performance on the DMS task. Subject decreases in pattern expression were correlated with reductions in recognition accuracy (p<0.05), increased intra-individual variability in reaction time (p<0.005) and increased lapsing (p<0.005).
In this paper we are studying the erosional procedures on the basis of Geographical InformationSystems (GIS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods. More precisely we use fuzzy logic rules toestimate the erosion risk index for the surface rocks and a model of neural networks to spatially categorisethe erosion risk index. The described procedure is applied at Zakynthos island, where acomplete spatial database already exists.
Skeletal muscle differentiation is a complex, highly coordinated process that relies on precise temporal gene expression patterns. To better understand this cascade of transcriptional events, we used expression profiling to analyze gene expression in a 12-day time course of differentiating C2C12 myoblasts. Cluster analysis specific for time-ordered microarray experiments classified 2895 genes and ESTs with variable expression levels between proliferating and differentiating cells into 22 clusters with distinct expression patterns during myogenesis. Expression patterns for several known and novel genes were independently confirmed by real-time quantitative RT-PCR and/or Western blotting and immunofluorescence. MyoD and MEF family members exhibited unique expression kinetics that were highly coordinated with cell-cycle withdrawal regulators. Among genes with peak expression levels during cell cycle withdrawal were Vcam1, Itgb3, Itga5, Vcl, as well as Ptger4, a gene not previously associated with the process of myogenesis. One interesting uncharacterized transcript that is highly induced during myogenesis encodes several immunoglobulin repeats with sequence similarity to titin, a large sarcomeric protein. These data sets identify many additional uncharacterized transcripts that may play important functions in muscle cell proliferation and differentiation and provide a baseline for comparison with C2C12 cells expressing various mutant genes involved in myopathic disorders.
Papanikolaou D, Kranis C. Extract of Transect VII. The Transmed Atlas, A publication of the Mediterranean Consortium for the 32nd International Geological Congress. 2004.
In this study, we examined the hypothesis that dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) shares genetic risk factors with other diseases of presumed autoimmune etiology, and, therefore, the same multiple genes in combination with environmental factors lead to numerous different autoimmune diseases. In accordance with this hypothesis, we showed an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases in first-degree relatives of patients with DCM. Also, T-cell activation, as reflected in high levels of the soluble interleukin-2 receptor, appears to identify patients with DCM with a clustering of autoimmune diseases
Tsakmakidis KL, Gomez-Rojas L, Robertson ID, Hess O, Houston PA, Weiss B. FDTD modelling of an InP traveling-wave HPT. In: Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering. Vol. 5451. ; 2004. pp. 441-449. WebsiteAbstract
The development and application of a three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) model for a travelingwave heterojunction phototransistor (TW-HPT) are presented. The model is enhanced using effective permittivity schemes at the dielectric interfaces and special techniques for the treatment of very thin material sheets. The 3D fullwave electgromagnetic model allows the numerical calculation of the output photocurrent, electrical characteristic impedance, light absorption, microwave losses as well as microwave and optical dispersion. Run in a fast, parallel processing, machine the simulation herein allowed (for the first time, to the best of the authors' knowledge) the simultaneous investigation of the optical and microwave characteristics of the traveling-wave structure. This is in contrast to the approach followed by other researchers in the past, as well as by popular simulation packages, based on which results only for the microwave property can be obtained. Snapshots of the field propagation inside the device provide valuable insight into its passive behavior and clearly demonstrate the device's velocity mismatch between the optical signal and the photogenerated electrical pulse. Numerical results for the effective refractive indices of the optical and electrical wave quantify the difference in the velocities of the two waves.
Three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain modelling of a travelling-wave heterojunction phototransistor is presented. The electromagnetic model allows the simultaneous simulation of the optical and microwave properties of the travelling-wave structure. The results clearly demonstrate the effect of velocity mismatch between the optical wave and the photogenerated electrical wave.
BACKGROUND: While routine immunizations are very safe, their administration to healthy children requires minimization of immunization programmatic errors. In order to estimate the incidence and ascertain the nature of reported immunization errors in the Greek childhood population, we have undertaken a study using data from the National Poison Information Center in Greece, which also has the responsibility to address medication-induced errors.
METHODS: All immunization errors concerning children and reported to the National Poison Information Center during the 2-yr period 1999-2000 were retrieved and the conditions of their occurrence were examined. The incidence of reported errors was calculated under the assumption that during each year 100,000 children are born in Greece, and during their childhood they receive a total of about 20 immunization doses of all childhood immunizations.
RESULTS: There were 40 immunization errors reported, corresponding to a reported incidence of about 11 per million immunization doses. Of these errors, 20 concerned OPV, 13 DTP, 5 MMR, 1 Haemophilus influenza and 1 Hepatitis B immunizations. In 12 instances an erroneous route was used (out of which 11 concerned OPV), whereas overdose was documented in 13 instances (out of which 8 concerned OPV). The third most common error was administration of DTP instead of the recommended Td vaccine. No adverse patient outcomes were reported.
CONCLUSIONS: In Greece, reported errors in immunization practice are relatively rare. Packaging modifications (about one in three errors in this study) of the OPV and DTP could further reduce their incidence.
We report on magnetic and magnetoresistance measurements in two categories of superconducting Nb films grown via magnetron sputtering and MgB2 bulk samples. In the first category, films of T-c = 9.25 K were produced by annealing during deposition. In these films, the magnetic measurements exhibited the so-called 'second magnetization peak' (SMP), which is accompanied by thermomagnetic instabilities (TMI). The characteristic field H-fj, where the first flux jump occurs, has been studied as a function of the sweep rate of the magnetic field. Interestingly, in the regime T < 6.4 K, the respective line H-fj(T) is constant, H-fj(T < 6.4 K) = 40 Oe. A comparison to TMI observed in MgB2 bulk samples is also performed. Our experimental findings cannot be described accurately by current theories on TMI. In the second category, films of T-c = 8.3 K were produced without annealing during deposition. In such films, we observed a peak effect (PE). In high magnetic fields the PE is accompanied by a sharp drop and a narrow hysteretic behaviour (DeltaT < 20 rnK) in the measured niagnetoresistance. In contrast to experimental works presented in the past, the comparison of our magnetic measurements with the magnetoresistance data suggests that the appearance of surface superconductivity rather than the melting transition of vortex matter is the cause of the observed behaviour.
The Health Informatics field is becoming more challenging as the globalization of economy, the advancement of the technology as well as innovative breakthroughs are being incorporated in the discipline. In Europe as well as in other countries the funding into the research areas of this field is increasing. In this chapter, a brief overview of the field as well the trends of Health Informatics are discussed with respect to the new dimensions that the education of the health care professionals has to tackle in the foreseeable future.
Kamberidou I. Gender and Olympism [in Greek]. In: 8ο Πανελλήνιου Συνέδριο Πτυχιούχων Φυσικής Αγωγής & Αθλητισμού (ΠΕΠΦΑ)- the 8th Panhellenic Conference of the Graduates of Physical Ed. and Sport (PEPFA), 7-9 May 2004, Athens Greece. Athens: ΠΕΠΦΑ - PEPFA; 2004.Abstract
Καμπερίδου, Ειρήνη (2004). «Το Έμφυλο [υποκείμενο] και Ολυμπισμός». (Gender andOlympism) Εισήγηση στο 8ο Πανελλήνιου Συνέδριο Πτυχιούχων Φυσικής Αγωγής & Αθλητισμού (ΠΕΠΦΑ), [περίληψη στα πρακτικά τoυ συνεδρίου] 7-9 Μαίου 2004, Αθήνα. [M in Apella]
Kamberidou, I. (2004). Gender and Olympism [in Greek]. Presentation at the 8th Panhellenic Conference of the Graduates of Physical Ed. and Sport (PEPFA), 7-9 May 2004, Athens Greece. PEPFA [M in Apella]
Spanos VC. {Gravitino dark matter in the constrained MSSM}. In: {12th International Conference on Supersymmetry and Unification of Fundamental Interactions (SUSY 04)}. ; 2004. pp. 717–720.
We develop a Green’s function multiple-scattering formalism for the calculation of the density of states and the local density of states of the elastic field in periodic and nonperiodic structures consisting of nonoverlapping scatterers in a homogeneous host medium. The formalism is based on concepts and techniques developed in relation to the similar problem of electrons in solids. We apply the method to a specific example which demonstrates the existence of virtual bound states of the elastic field localized about a plane of nonoverlapping steel spheres in polyester. These states are manifested as dips in the transmission spectrum of the monolayer. They develop into narrow frequency bands in a phononic crystal built by a succession of such planes.
Shell model calculations have been performed for low-excitation states in the Zr isotopes between 90Zr and 96Zr with an emphasis on the g factors and electromagnetic decay rates for the lowest 2+ and 3- states. Overall the 2+ states are reasonably well described. In contrast, the 3- states present a puzzle because the measured g factors imply a single-particle configuration whereas the experimental E3 transition rates imply collective structures that cannot be explained by shell model calculations. A consistent description of the 3 - states in 90Zr and 96Zr is sought in terms of coupling between the single-particle structure and a collective octupole vibration.
Secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis has been reported after infections in immunocompromised hosts or in association with several malignancies. We report a case of secondary hemophagocytic syndrome after chemotherapy for multiple myeloma, which responded dramatically to dexamethasone, etoposide, and cyclosporin A.
Advances in mathematics and physics that deal with fractal geometry, fractal kinetics and chaotic dynamics have offered new insights for complex, kinetic and dynamical phenomena. These concepts can be applied to describe the heterogeneous nature of drug processes in the human body. Using these concepts, all processes related to gastrointestinal drug absorption (i.e. dissolution or release, transit and uptake) are considered to take place in non-homogeneous, disordered media. In pharmacokinetic modeling, fractal spaces and branching transport networks, or stochastic models, replace the classical compartmental models. Classical pharmacodynamics relies on the suppression or amplification of a steady-state baseline; however, the underlying physiological systems are often much more complex. Therefore, tools of nonlinear dynamics are used to analyze the drug effect.
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), has been recently isolated from children with acute respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including bronchiolitis, and classified in the Pneumovirinae subfamily within the Paramyxoviridae family.|Since most bronchiolitis studies fail to detect any viral pathogen in part of the samples, we sought for the presence of hMPV in a well characterized bronchiolitis cohort.|Nasal washes were obtained from 56 children admitted to the hospital for acute bronchiolitis. RNA extraction and subsequent RT-PCR were used to detect hMPV, and correlated the presence of the virus with clinical characteristics of the disease.|PCR revealed the presence of hMPV in 16% of bronchiolitis cases, whereas respiratory syncytial virus (RSV; 67.9%) was the most frequently encountered viral pathogen. hMPV was identified either as a unique viral pathogen or co-existed with RSV, with whom they shared a similar seasonal distribution. There were no differences in disease characteristics, either clinical or laboratory, between bronchiolitis cases where hMPV was present and those caused by RSV or other viral pathogens. These findings suggest that hMPV is a common and important causative agent in infants with bronchiolitis, with clinical characteristics similar to that of RSV.
We demonstrate that hydromagnetic acceleration can be the driving mechanism of outflows in GRB sources. Using semianalytical solutions of the full set of the steady, axisymmetric, ideal hydromagnetic equations in flat spacetime -- i.e., solving the momentum equation along the flow as well as in the transfield direction -- we model the acceleration of the baryon/e±/photon fluid that emanates from a stellar-mass compact object/debris-disk system. We prove that for highly relativistic, multiple-shell outflows one can study the motion of each shell using steady-state equations. Employing a radially self-similar model, we find that the flow is initially thermally and subsequently magnetically accelerated. The Lorentz force is capable of transferring close to a half of the total energy of an initially Poynting-dominated flow to baryonic kinetic energy.
Using relativistic, steady, axisymmetric, ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), we analyze the super-Alfvénic regime of a pulsar wind by solving the momentum equation along the flow, as well as in the transfield direction. Employing a self-similar model, we demonstrate that ideal MHD can account for the full acceleration from high (>>1) to low (<<1) values of σ, the Poynting-to-matter energy flux ratio. The solutions also show a transition from a current-carrying to a return-current regime, partly satisfying the current-closure condition. We discuss the kind of boundary conditions near the base of the ideal MHD regime that are necessary in order to have the required transition from high to low σ in realistic distances and argue that this is a likely case for an equatorial wind. Examining the MHD asymptotics in general, we extend the analysis of Heyvaerts & Norman and Chiueh, Li, & Begelman by including two new elements: classes of quasi-conical and parabolic field line shapes that do not preclude an efficient and much faster than logarithmic acceleration, and the transition σ=σc after which the centrifugal forces (poloidal and azimuthal) are the dominant terms in the transfield force-balance equation.
Using relativistic, steady, axisymmetric, ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), we analyze the super-Alfvénic regime of a pulsar wind by solving the momentum equation along the flow, as well as in the transfield direction. Employing a self-similar model, we demonstrate that ideal MHD can account for the full acceleration from high (>>1) to low (<<1) values of σ, the Poynting-to-matter energy flux ratio. The solutions also show a transition from a current-carrying to a return-current regime, partly satisfying the current-closure condition. We discuss the kind of boundary conditions near the base of the ideal MHD regime that are necessary in order to have the required transition from high to low σ in realistic distances and argue that this is a likely case for an equatorial wind. Examining the MHD asymptotics in general, we extend the analysis of Heyvaerts & Norman and Chiueh, Li, & Begelman by including two new elements: classes of quasi-conical and parabolic field line shapes that do not preclude an efficient and much faster than logarithmic acceleration, and the transition σ=σc after which the centrifugal forces (poloidal and azimuthal) are the dominant terms in the transfield force-balance equation.
The study aimed to identify task-related brain activation networks whose change in expression exhibits subject differences as a function of differential susceptibility to sleep deprivation. Brain activity during a non-verbal recognition memory task was investigated in an event-related functional MRI paradigm both prior to and after 48 h of sleep deprivation. Nineteen healthy subjects participated. Regional covariance analysis was applied to data. An activation network pattern was identified whose expression decreased from pre- to post-sleep deprivation in 15 out 19 subjects (P < 0.05). Differential decrease in expression correlated with worsening performance in recognition accuracy (P < 0.05). Sites of de-activation were found in the posterior cerebellum, right fusiform gyrus and precuneus, and left lingual and inferior temporal gyri; increased activation was found in the bilateral insula, claustrum and right putamen. A network whose expression decreased after sleep deprivation and correlated with memory performance was identified. We conclude that this activation network plays a role in cognitive function during sleep deprivation.
Purpose. To set up a theoretical basis for identifying biowaivers among Class II drugs and apply the methodology developed to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs). Methods. The dynamics of the two consecutive drug processes dissolution and wall permeation are considered in the time domain of the physiologic transit time using a tube model of the intestinal lumen. The model considers constant permeability along the intestines, a plug flow fluid with the suspended particles moving with the fluid, and dissolution in the small particle limit. The fundamental differential equation of drug dissolution-uptake in the intestines is expressed in terms of the fraction of dose dissolved. Results. The fundamental parameters, which define oral drug absorption in humans resulting from this analysis, are i) the formulation-related factors, dose, particle radius size, and ii) the drug-related properties, dimensionless solubility/dose ratio (1/q), and effective permeability. Plots of dose as a function of (1/q) for various particle sizes unveil the specific values of these meaningful parameters, which ensure complete absorption for Class II drugs {[}(1/q) < 1]. A set of NSAIDs were used to illustrate the application of the approach in identifying biowaivers among the NSAIDs. Conclusions. The underlying reason for a region of fully absorbed drugs in Class II originates from the dynamic character of the dissolution-uptake processes. The dynamic character of the approach developed allows identification of biowaivers among Class II drugs. Several biowaivers among the NSAIDs were identified using solubility data at pH 5.0 and in fed-state-simulated intestinal fluid at pH 5.0. The relationships of formulation parameters, dose, particle radius, and the drug properties, dimensionless solubility/dose ratio (1/q), and permeability with the fraction of dose absorbed for drugs with low 1/q values {[}(1/q) < 1] can be used as guidance for the formulation scientist in the development phase.
Recurrent viral infections are frequently observed in children with atopic asthma. In this study we investigated the ability of the synthetic immunomodulator pidotimod to affect in vitro the phenotype and/or cytokine profile of blood cells in relation to atopic asthma. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from 13 atopic asthmatic and 9 normal children and stimulated in culture with mitogen either in the presence or not of the drug. Expression of surface markers was evaluated by flow cytometry, and production of interleukin-4 and interferon-gamma was measured in supernatants. Pidotimod was able to down-regulate the expression of CD30 on cells from both atopic and normal subjects. Because CD30 has been associated with Th-2 cells, this observation supports the possibility of pidotimod being able to affect the Th-1/Th-2 balance in atopic asthma.
We report on combined resistance and magnetic measurements in a hybrid structure (HS) of randomly distributed anisotropic CoPt magnetic nanoparticles (MN) embedded in a 160 nm Nb thick film. Our resistance measurements exhibited a sharp increase at the magnetically determined bulk upper-critical fields H-c2(T). Above these points the resistance curves are rounded, attaining the normal state value at much higher fields identified as the surface superconductivity fields H-c3(T). When plotted in reduced temperature units, the characteristic field lines H-c3(T) of the HS and of a pure Nb film, prepared at exactly the same conditions, coincide for H<10 kOe, while for fields H>10 kOe they strongly segregate. Interestingly, the characteristic value H=10 kOe is equal to the saturation field H-sat(MN) of the MN. The behavior mentioned above is observed only for the case where the field is normal to the film's surface, while it is absent when the field is parallel to the film. Our experimental results suggest that the observed enhancement of surface superconductivity field H-c3(T) is possibly due to the not uniform local reduction of the external magnetic field by the dipolar fields of the MN.
The band gap of half-metallic ferromagnets can be affected by the spin-orbit coupling, which introduces there a small, but non-vanishing, density of states. We study this effect in the case of Heusler alloys. We find that, as a rule, the spin polarization in the middle of the gap decreases for compounds of heavier elements.
The European Union aims to become the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world by 2010. Nevertheless, half the Europe-25 Member States possess limited innovation capacities. This article argues that the co-evolution patterns of physical and social technologies indicate two possible scenarios: either the forward-looking elements will start a chain reaction mobilising the rest of the national system, as in Ireland; or the dynamic elements will integrate sectorally and transnationally to the global system, leaving the rest of the economy in a permanent low-cost and low-competitiveness trap. The former is a win-win scenario for the European system of innovation, whereas the latter is second-best.
A small aperture seismic array was installed by the University of Athens, in the area of Tripoli, Greece, on July 16th 2003, in order to test the performance of seismic array processing in the area of Greece and assess its contribution to earthquake location, especially in offshore areas not azimuthally covered by the existing, conventional seismological networks. The array consists of four three-component seismological stations, one of them in the middle of a small, almost equilateral triangle, formed by the deployment of the other three stations. Despite the fact that array siting is a compromise of array installation criteria, equipment safety and logistics, the test character of the experiment can be served successfully. The array transfer function depicts good azimuthal coverage nonetheless the existence of side-lobes and a rather wide main lobe is characteristic of spatial aliasing and low resolution in the two-dimensional wavenumber domain. The resolvable wavenumber passband of the array permits the determination of most of the common seismic body wave phases (Pn, Pg, Sn, Sg, etc.) for local and regional events in the area of Greece. Location of recorded events was performed using slowness and backazimuth data, calculated by f-k analysis of the seismic waveforms. Preliminary results have been compared to epicentres calculated by the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens. Although some differences are observed, these are not significant and location results as well as overall array performance can be improved by array calibration and travel-time, azimuth and slowness correction calculations.
BACKGROUND: This is a retrospective study presenting the experience of a teaching-oriented laparoendoscopic unit with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in order to add data to the international literature concerning issues such as epidemiology, intraoperative findings, conversion and complication rates.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study 5539 consecutive patients who underwent LC between 1990 and 2000 were included. Elective (n=4903) or emergent (n=636) LC was performed in all but 99 patients (who were converted to the open procedure). Conversion rate, complication rate, mortality, and length of stay were the main outcome parameters in this study.
RESULTS: There was no intraoperative or in-hospital mortality in our series. The conversion rate was 1.8%. The complication rate was 2.92% (162 patients). The vast majority of our patients (92%) were discharged from the hospital on the first postoperative day.
CONCLUSIONS: LC is a safe technique when up-to-date equipment and meticulous dissection techniques are employed. A specialized laparoscopic unit is important in a general surgery department, to have an experienced laparoscopic surgeon in all cases. In our opinion this is the only way to minimize common bile duct injuries and the rates of other major complications.
We develop a method for the calculation of ballistic transport from first principles. The multiple scattering screened Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker (KKR) method is combined with a Green-function formulation of the Landauer approach for the ballistic transport. We obtain an efficient O(N) algorithm for the calculation of ballistic conductance through a scattering region connected to semi-infinite crystalline leads. In particular we generalize the results of Baranger and Stone in the case of Bloch wave boundary conditions and, we discuss relevant properties of the S matrix. We consider the implications on the application of the formalism in conjunction with a cellular multiple scattering description of the electronic structure; and demonstrate the convergence properties concerning the angular momentum expansions.
This article deals with the economic exclusive zone delimitation agreement reached on the17th February 2003 between Cyprus and Egypt. It is the first agreement of this kind concluded in the Mediterranean, where delimitation issues are particularly delicate, not only because of the limited maritime space but also due to the particularly conflictual atmosphere which reigns notably in the Eastern basin of this sea.The article analyses, in the first place, the content of the agreement and the reactions generated by its conclusion. Furthermore, it argues on its side effects, namely the revival of the discourse concerning the exclusive economic zones issue in the Mediterranean sea.
The transport properties of pulsed-laser-deposited NiMnSb films on silicon as a function of film thickness were discussed. It was found that a low-temperature upturn was observed in the resistivity for film thicknesses of 130 nm and below. It was observed that as the film thickness decreased, the magnitude of both the resistivity upturn and the magnetoresistance increased. Analysis shows that the evolution of the field dependence of the magnetoresistance appeared similar to the silver chalcogenides and was indicative of a crossover from hole-dominated to electron-dominated transport as the temperature increased.
Using ideal magnetohydrodynamics we examine an outflow from a disk surrounding a stellar-mass compact object. We demonstrate that the magnetic acceleration is efficient (>~ 50% of the magnetic energy can be transformed into kinetic energy of γ > 102 baryons) and also that the jet becomes collimated to very small opening angles. Observational implications, focusing on the case of an initially neutron-rich outflow, are discussed in Königl's contribution.
Using ideal magnetohydrodynamics we examine an outflow from a disk surrounding a stellar-mass compact object. We demonstrate that the magnetic acceleration is efficient (>~ 50% of the magnetic energy can be transformed into kinetic energy of γ > 102 baryons) and also that the jet becomes collimated to very small opening angles. Observational implications, focusing on the case of an initially neutron-rich outflow, are discussed in Königl's contribution.
We report a rare case of a 21-year-old man with leptospirosis mimicking acute pancreatitis and cholecystitis. This case report aims at pointing out the need of taking into consideration the possibility of leptospirosis in patients with an influenza-like syndrome, headache accompanied by acute abdominal pain and a suspicious exposure in order to prevent unnecessary surgical interventions.
The mean monthly shortwave (SW) radiation budget at the top of atmosphere (TOA) was computed on 2.5° longitude-latitude resolution for the 14-year period from 1984 to 1997, using a radiative transfer model with long-term climatological data from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP-D2) supplemented by data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction - National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP-NCAR) Global Reanalysis project, and other global data bases such as TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder (TOVS) and Global Aerosol Data Set (GADS). The model radiative fluxes at TOA were validated against Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE) S4 scanner satellite data (1985-1989). The model is able to predict the seasonal and geographical variation of SW TOA fluxes. On a mean annual and global basis, the model is in very good agreement with ERBE, overestimating the outgoing SW radiation at TOA (OSR) by 0.93 Wm-2 (or by 0.92%), within the ERBE uncertainties. At pixel level, the OSR differences between model and ERBE are mostly within ±10 Wm-2, with ±5 Wm-2 over extended regions, while there exist some geographic areas with differences of up to 40 Wm-2, associated with uncertainties in cloud properties and surface albedo. The 14-year average model results give a planetary albedo equal to 29.6% and a TOA OSR flux of 101.2 Wm-2. A significant linearly decreasing trend in OSR and planetary albedo was found, equal to 2.3 Wm-2 and 0.6% (in absolute values), respectively, over the 14-year period (from January 1984 to December 1997), indicating an increasing solar planetary warming. This planetary SW radiative heating occurs in the tropical and sub-tropical areas (20° S-20° N), with clouds being the most likely cause. The computed global mean OSR anomaly ranges within ±4 Wm-2, with signals from El Niño and La Niña events or Pinatubo eruption, whereas significant negative OSR anomalies, starting from year 1992, are also detected.
There is growing evidence that relativistic jets in active galactic nuclei undergo extended (parsec-scale) acceleration. We argue that, contrary to some suggestions in the literature, this acceleration cannot be purely hydrodynamic. Using exact semianalytic solutions of the relativistic MHD equations, we demonstrate that the parsec-scale acceleration to relativistic speeds inferred in sources such as the radio galaxy NGC 6251 and the quasar 3C 345 can be attributed to magnetic driving. Additional observational implications of this model will be explored in future papers in this series.
There is growing evidence that relativistic jets in active galactic nuclei undergo extended (parsec-scale) acceleration. We argue that, contrary to some suggestions in the literature, this acceleration cannot be purely hydrodynamic. Using exact semianalytic solutions of the relativistic MHD equations, we demonstrate that the parsec-scale acceleration to relativistic speeds inferred in sources such as the radio galaxy NGC 6251 and the quasar 3C 345 can be attributed to magnetic driving. Additional observational implications of this model will be explored in future papers in this series.
The magnetic properties of the Zr2FeV3O11 vanadate, characterized by a disordered distribution of diamagnetic Zn 2+ and high-spin Fe3+ ions, are studied using magnetization and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements. The dc susceptibility reveals antiferromagnetic interactions between Fe3 +spins with a Curie-Weiss temperature Θ = -58(1) K, followed by a transition to a frozen, spin-glass-like state at low temperature T f ≈ 2.55 K, indicating an inhomogeneous magnetic ground state. The temperature variation of the EPR parameters confirms the antiferromagnetic coupling of Fe3+ spins at high temperatures, while a distinct divergence is observed at T ≈ 55 K. This behavior is attributed to the inherent magnetic inhomogeneity of the system due to antiferromagnetic spin clusters.
We have grown films of the half-metallic ferromagnet NiMnSb on single crystals of the narrow gap semiconductor InSb by pulsed laser deposition. NiMnSb is a possible candidate for spin injection applications. The film depositions occurred at 200°C. X-ray diffraction studies indicate a high degree of (220) texture and no secondary phases. A saturation magnetization of four Bohr magnetons, μB. at 5 K and coercive fields down to 5 Oe at 300 K indicate the good quality of the films.
We study the magnetization and the magnetic phases of II-VI-based n-doped non-magnetic-semiconductor (NMS) / narrow to wide dilute-magnetic-semiconductor (DMS) / n-doped NMS quantum wells under in-plane magnetic field. The parallel magnetic field is used as a tool, in order to achieve non-step-like density of states in these -appropriate for conduction-band spintronics- structures.
Several epidemiological studies using sensitive detection methodologies have confirmed that the majority of acute asthma exacerbations follow upper respiratory tract infections–common colds. Most of these colds are due to human rhinoviruses (RVs). RVs are able to reach and replicate in epithelial cells of the lower airways and can activate these cells to produce pro-inflammatory mediators. Under some circumstances, RVs can also become cytotoxic to the epithelium. Atopic asthmatic individuals produce less interferon-gamma and more interleukin-10 than normal subjects in response to RV infection. Symptom severity as well as viral shedding after experimental RV infection, is inversely correlated with 'atopic' status, expressed as the interferon-gamma to interleukin-5 ratio. Expression of co-stimulatory molecules on immune cells is also affected in atopic asthmatics, suggesting an aberrant immune response to RV that may lead to suboptimal viral clearance and viral persistence. Some of the above effects can be reversed in vitro by corticosteroids, second-generation antihistamines or anti-oxidants; however, the optimal strategy for treating acute asthma exacerbations requires further research at both mechanistic and clinical levels.
This paper focuses on the question of discovering the keystone of the South-East (SE) Mediterranean geopolitical shell which is located on the crucial security problem faced by the state of Israel as well as on the question of how the Greek and Greek-Cypriot sides will cope with the impetuously immediate resolution of the Cyprus Issue in accordance with the Annan Plan on “a Comprehensive Settlement of the Cyprus Problem” which creates a new strategic image for Cyprus with significant medium and short term repercussions for the entire SE Mediterranean geopolitical complex-and the Greek-Turkish & Turkish-Cypriot relations. This paper’s conclusion is the proposal to politically handle all negotiations, namely to actually negotiate in principle-so that the Greek-Cypriot side shall not be held responsible for an a priori dismissal of the Annan Plan-but it is the author’s estimate that the Greek and Greek Cypriot sides should not have accepted the said plan on 12/12/2002 unless it has incorporated the modifications suggested herein.
Konstantinidou AE, Morphopoulos G, Korkolopoulou P, Eftychiadis C, Stamokosta E, Saetta A, Agapitos E. Menetrier disease of early infancy: a separate entity?. Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition. 2004;39(2):177-182.
From a sample of 304 carbon stars in the central parts of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), ~27 per cent have Merrill-Sanford (MS) bands of the SiC2 molecule. The data are based on a uniform set of spectra taken with 2dF on the Anglo-Australian Telescope, and give useful statistics on the incidence of MS bands and on their correlation (or otherwise) with other properties. All of these are red stars, cooler than 3100 K. The proportion of stars showing the bands is highest amongst the coolest stars, but not all very cool stars show the bands. There is no evidence that MS bands are more common in J-type stars (carbon stars with a high 13C/12C ratio) than in N-type carbon stars, at least within this sample of LMC stars. There is no apparent correlation with stellar variability, or between the photospheric temperature [as measured by (J-K)] and the occurrence of the `hot' MS bands from excited molecular states.
Two different approaches were used to study the kinetics of the enzymatic reaction under heterogeneous conditions to interpret the unusual nonlinear pharmacokinetics of mibefradil. Firstly, a detailed model based on the kinetic differential equations is proposed to study the enzymatic reaction under spatial constraints and in vivo conditions. Secondly, Monte Carlo simulations of the enzyme reaction in a two-dimensional square lattice, placing special emphasis on the input and output of the substrate were applied to mimic in vivo conditions. Both the mathematical model and the Monte Carlo simulations for the enzymatic reaction reproduced the classical Michaelis-Menten ( MM) kinetics in homogeneous media and unusual kinetics in fractal media. Based on these findings, a time-dependent version of the classic MM equation was developed for the rate of change of the substrate concentration in disordered media and was successfully used to describe the experimental plasma concentration-time data of mibefradil and derive estimates for the model parameters. The unusual nonlinear pharmacokinetics of mibefradil originates from the heterogeneous conditions in the reaction space of the enzymatic reaction. The modified MM equation can describe the pharmacokinetics of mibefradil as it is able to capture the heterogeneity of the enzymatic reaction in disordered media.
Nemaline myopathy (NM) is a slowly progressive or nonprogressive neuromuscular disorder caused by mutations in genes encoding skeletal muscle sarcomeric thin filament proteins. It is characterized by great heterogeneity at the clinical, histopathological, and genetic level. Although multiple molecular pathways are commonly affected in all NM patients, little is known about the molecular characteristics of muscles from patients in different NM subgroups. We have analyzed a group of global gene expression data sets for transcriptional patterns characteristic of particular nemaline myopathy classes. Differential expression between disease subgroups was primarily seen in mitochondrial-, structural-, and transcription-related genes. Multiple lines of evidence support the hypothesis that muscles from cases with "nontyping" NM, although clinically classified as typical NM, share a unique pathophysiological state and are characterized by distinct patterns of gene expression. Determination of the specific molecular differences in NM subgroups may eventually lead to improved prognostic determinations and treatment of these patients.
This article demonstrates morphometric methods by applying them to an orthodontic sample. A total of 150 pretreatment cephalograms of consecutive patients (84 female, 66 male) were traced and digitized. Fifteen points were used for the analysis. The tracings were superimposed by the Procrustes method, and shape variability was assessed by principal component analysis. Approximately 70% of the total sample variability was incorporated in the first 5 principal components. The most significant principal component, accounting for 29% of shape variability, was the divergence of skeletal pattern; the second principal component, accounting for 20% of shape variability, was the anteroposterior maxillary relationship. It is recommended that Procrustes superimposition and principal component analysis be incorporated into routine cephalometric analysis for more valid and comprehensive shape assessment.
BACKGROUND: Motor signs (MOSIs) are common in Alzheimer disease (AD) and may be associated with rates of cognitive decline, mortality, and cost of care.
OBJECTIVE: To describe the progression and identify predictors of individual MOSIs in AD.
METHODS: A cohort of 474 patients with AD at early stages was followed semiannually for up to 13.1 years (mean 3.6 years) in five centers in Europe and the United States. MOSIs were rated using a standardized portion of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Overall, 3,030 visits/assessments of MOSIs (average 6.4/patient) were performed. Prevalence and incidence rates were calculated, and cumulative risk graphs were plotted for individual non-drug-induced MOSI domains. Rates of change over time taking into account potential covariates were also estimated. With use of each MOSI domain as outcome in Cox models, predictors of MOSI incidence were identified.
RESULTS: At least one MOSI was detected in 13% of patients at first examination and in 36% for the last evaluation. Total MOSI score increased at an annual rate of 3% of total possible score. Rates of annual change for speech/facial expression (4%), rigidity (2.45%), posture/gait (3.9%), and bradykinesia (3.75%) were of similar magnitude, and their occurrence increased from first (3 to 6%) to last (22 to 29%) evaluation. Tremor was less frequent throughout the course of the disease (4% at first and 7% at last evaluation) and worsened less (0.75% increase/year).
CONCLUSIONS: Most motor signs occur frequently and progress rapidly in Alzheimer disease. Tremor is an exception in that it occurs less frequently and advances at slower rates.
We report on first-principles calculations for multilayers of zinc-blende half-metallic ferromagnets CrAs and CrSb with III-V and II-VI semiconductors, in the {[}001] orientation. We examine the ideal and tetragonalized structures, as well as the case of an intermixed interface. We find that, as a rule, half-metallicity can be conserved throughout the heterostructures, provided that the character of the local coordination and bonding is not disturbed. We describe a mechanism operative at the interfaces with semiconductors that can also give a non-integer spin moment per interface transition atom, and derive a simple rule for evaluating it.
We present the basic steps for the study of the linear near field absorption spectra of semiconductor quantum dots under magnetic field of variable orientation. We show that the application of the magnetic field alone is sufficient to induce -increasing the spot illuminated by the near field probe- interesting features to the absorption spectra.
During two observational seasons of international campaign of YY Her we secured photometric data which covered the primary as well as the secondary minima and revealed unexpected outburst activity of this system.
Deep seismic and gravity measurements were conducted along profiles in CW Attica to investigate the subsurface structure of the area that suffered heavy damages after the Mw=5.9 of September, 7th 1999 earthquake. Within the framework of this investigation the following tasks were accomplished: a) Three long seismic lines of about 10km each, two of which in the epicentral area of Thriassion plain (west part of Athens) and one along the Parnitha Mtn-Penteli Mtn axis (central part of Athens) and b) eight gravity profiles, comprising 338 gravity measurements, four of which in the Thriassion plain, three in the meizoseismal area of Petroupoli, Aharnes and Thrakomacedones (east of Parnitha Mtn) and one along the Parnitha Mtn-Penteli Mtn axis.
Geopolitical and political reality as well as its proper reading were, are and will always be a challenge for all social and spiritual leaders. Today’s reality is characterised by the end of traditional hermeneutic systems, i.e. those stochastic examples from which the lot of social, political, economic and philosophical issues drew their “safe” and lucid answers. These traditional, holistic examples that were also used in the cases of individual national social formations as well as groups of national social formations were – roughly – the following two: the Socialist one and the Liberal one. The two conflicting worlds, the Eastern and Western ones respectively, rallied ideologically and geopolitically around these two axes. The government elites of the National Social Formations (NSF’s) that used to comprise these two worlds concur with this Procrustean division. The same phenomenon also characterized for nearly fifty years the respective political cultures and dominant ideologies as well as the geopolitical approaches of the said National Social Formations.
By using isothermal magnetization measurements in polycrystalline MgB2 samples, we estimate the H-c2(c) in the interval [0, T-c]. By combining these measurements to the estimated H-c2(ab) from the onset of the diamagnetic transition in isofield and isothermal magnetic measurements, an estimation of the anisotropy parameter can be achieved. The H-c2(c) values coming from high quality polycrystalline samples agrees nicely to those obtained on single crystals. Our results show a temperature variation of the gamma(T) = H-c2(ab) / H-c2(c) with gamma(T-c) approximate to 3.
Six- and five-coordinate Fe(II) complexes with the pincer Iigand 2,6-bis(imidazolylidene)pyridine (C-N-C), [(C-N-C)Fe(MeCN)3][BPh 4]2 and [(C-N-C)FeBr2], respectively, were synthesized. Substitution of tmeda in [FeCl2(tmeda)]2 by C-N-C gave the sixcoordinate {[Fe(C-N-C)(C-N-C*)][FeCl4]}, in which one of the pincer ligands is bound to the metal via the 2- and 5-imidazole carbons.
We analyze the important changes induced in the density of states of narrow-to-wide conduction-band dilute magnetic semiconductor quantum wells subjected to an in-plane magnetic field, B. We show quantitatively that the DOS diverges significantly from the famous step-like two-dimensional electron gas form, by providing results for many values of B and grades of spatial localization. This introduces changes in the pertinent electronic properties. The self-consistent approach is indispensable and the eigenvalue problem has to be solved for each subband index i, spin σ, and in-plane wave vector, e.g. kx. We can select the appropriate parameters so that the structure is populated by carriers of spin-down or exploit the effect of the depopulation of the higher spin-subbands to eliminate carriers with spin-up.
Purpose. i) To develop novel approaches for the construction of bio-equivalence ( BE) limits incorporating both the intrasubject variability and the geometric mean ratio (GMR), and ii) to assess the performance of the novel approaches in comparison to several scaled BE procedures and the classic unscaled average BE. Methods. Plots of the BE limits or the extreme GMR values accepted as a function of the coefficient of variation ( CV) were constructed for published and the developed scaled procedures. Two-period crossover BE investigations with 12, 24, or 36 subjects were simulated with assumptions of a CV 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40%. The decline in the percentage of accepted studies was recorded as the true GMR for the two formulations was raised from 1.00 to 1.50. Acceptance of BE was evaluated by published and the developed scaled procedures, and, for comparison, by the unscaled average BE. Results. Two GMR-dependent BE limits are proposed for the evaluation of average BE: i) BELscG1 with Ln(Upper, Lower BE limit) = +/-{[}(5-4GMR)0.496s + Ln(1.25)], and ii) BELscG2 with Ln(Upper, Lower BE limit) = +/-{[}(3-2GMR)(0.496s + Ln(1.25))], where s is the square root of the intrasubject variance. The range of BE limits becomes narrower as GMR values deviate from unity, and increases with variability. The two new approaches exhibit the highest statistical power at low CV values. At high levels of variability, BELscG1 and BELscG2 show high statistical power, as well as the lowest percentages of acceptance among the scaled methods when GMR = 1.25. The latter becomes more obvious when a large number of subjects is incorporated in the studies. Conclusions. The GMR and CV estimates of the BE study can be used in conjunction with the GMR vs. CV plot for the assessment of average BE. The new approaches, BELscG1 and BELscG2, appear to be highly effective at all levels of variation investigated.
De Leenheer M, Van Breusegem E, Thysebaert P, Volckaert B, De Turck F, Dhoedt B, Demeester P, Simeonidou D, O'Mahoney MJ, Nejabati R, et al.An OBS-based grid Architecture. In: GLOBECOM - IEEE Global Telecommunications Conference. ; 2004. pp. 390-394. Website
We recently found that female aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice that are deficient in oestradiol due to a targeted mutation in the aromatase gene show deficits in sexual behaviour that cannot be corrected by adult treatment with oestrogens. We determined here whether these impairments are associated with changes in general levels of activity, anxiety or 'depressive-like' symptomatology due to chronic oestrogen deficiency. We also compared the neurochemical profile of ArKO and wild-type (WT) females, as oestrogens have been shown to modulate dopaminergic, serotonergic and noradrenergic brain activities. ArKO females did not differ from WT in spontaneous motor activity, exploration or anxiety. These findings are in line with the absence of major neurochemical alterations in hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex or striatum, which are involved in the expression of these behaviours. By contrast, ArKO females displayed decreased active behaviours, such as struggling and swimming, and increased passive behaviours, such as floating, in repeated sessions of the forced swim test, indicating that these females exhibit 'depressive-like' symptoms. Adult treatment with oestradiol did not reverse the behavioural deficits observed in the forced swim test, suggesting that they may be due to the absence of oestradiol during development. Accordingly, an increased serotonergic activity was observed in the hippocampus of ArKO females compared with WT, which was also not reversed by adult oestradiol treatment. The possible organizational role of oestradiol on the hippocampal serotonergic system and the 'depressive-like' profile of ArKO females provide new insights into the pathophysiology of depression and the increased vulnerability of women to depression.
Using the first-principles layer-multiple-scattering method we developed in previous work, we analyze recent experimental data on the extinction of light by rectangular two-dimensional arrays of gold nanoparticles on a dielectric waveguide. The theoretical results reproduce accurately the measured spectra and provide a transparent physical picture of the underlying processes.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of virus infection of the human respiratory tract during the first two years of life, with virtually all children experiencing at least one infection within this period. Although this usually leads to mild respiratory illness, some infants develop more severe disease (bronchiolitis, pneumonia, etc.) affecting the lower airways and frequently requiring hospitalisation. There is evidence that bronchiolitis hospitalisations have increased during the last two decades and many of the hospitalised children develop wheezing later in life. The immune response to the virus is probably a major factor in the development or the expression of the pathological phenotype. In particular, a bias towards type-2 cytokine responses seems to be associated with more severe disease, whereas a type-1 response leads to more effective viral clearance and milder illness. Although the virus by itself triggers a type-1 response, a preexisting type-1 deficiency may contribute to the severity of the disease. In that sense, RSV bronchiolitis may serve as a marker, reflecting predisposition of the individual for virus induced wheezing early in life and/or asthma later in life.
{Purpose. Better dosing is needed for antibiotics, including teicoplanin (TEI), to prevent emergence of resistant bacterial strains. Here, we assess the TEI pharmacokinetics (PK) related to a 10 mg/l minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) target in ICU children (4 to 120 months; n=20) with gram+infections. Methods. Standard administration of TEI was with three 10 mg/kg Q12h, loading infusions, and maintainance with 10 mg/kg or 15 mg/kg Q24h. During maintenance, 9 samples (3/day) were collected per patient and the PK analyzed with Nonlinear Mixed Effects Model (NONMEM). Results. Thirty-five percent of concentrations in older children (greater than or equal to2 months) vs. 8% in younger infants (<12 months) were below the target MIC. The global bicompartmental population PK parameters were {[}mean (interindividual CV%)] CL=0.23 l/h {[}72%]
This paper reports new photometric observations of minima of two very long-period eclipsing systems: AZ Cas (P=3402 °}) and EE Cep (P=2050 °). In order to match the observed depth of the primary minimum of AZ Cas we had to introduce a third light component. For EE Cep, the shape of the eclipse can be explained by a model that includes a dark precessing disk in the system.
The paper presents combined spectroscopic and photometric orbital solutions for five close binary systems: V 402Aur, SX Crv, V829 Her, VZ Lib and V753 Mon. The photometric data consist of new complete, multicolor light curves, while the spectroscopy has been recently obtained within the radial velocity program at the David Dunlap Observatory. For one target, SX Crv, new spectroscopic data were obtained using the 6.5 m Magellan telescope. A contact configuration was found through light curve modeling for all targets except V753 Mon. Our solution for V753 Mon resulted in a semidetached configuration with the slightly less massive component filling its Roche lobe.
Indicator dilution studies are used to provide estimates for several physiological parameters such as cardiac output as well as intra- and extravascular volumes. This study introduces a novel technique for the estimation of recirculatory parameters. A mathematical model based on a dispersion-convection partial differential equation (PDE), derived from the fractal geometry of the vascular tree and the hydrodynamics of the blood flow, is used to describe the spatiotemporal profile of tracers in the circulatory system. Initially, the equation is fitted to concentration-time (C, t) data of a tracer to derive the parameter estimates of the model equation; in a subsequent step, these estimates along with appropriate changes of the parameters of the PDE are used to generate the early concentration-time profile of a hypothetical appropriate tracer without recirculation. Thus, the area under the concentration-time curve of the first passage of the tracer is calculated and used for the estimation of various physiological parameters, including cardiac output, miscellaneous partial blood volumes, and the corresponding mean transit times. The procedure was applied successfully to literature data of various tracers from humans and dogs.
Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) is a discrete subset of large B-cell lymphoma with unique clinicopathologic features. The question of optimal treatment emerges because it is an uncommon but not rare occurrence. A retrospective study was therefore conducted in a group of patients in Greece to evaluate the clinical features and treatment outcome in this disease. Twenty patients with PMBCL, with a median age of 42 years, treated at centers participating in the Hellenic Cooperative Oncology Group over the last 20 years, were reviewed. Thirteen (65%) had bulky disease at the time of presentation, 7 (35%) had superior vena cavae obstruction, and 15 (75%) had extranodal involvement. All received doxorubicin-containing chemotherapy, followed in 11 cases by mediastinal radiotherapy. With a median follow-up of 91 months, the median survival is 67.7 months. These data are consistent with those reported from other centers concerning the patient's characteristics, natural history, response pattern to chemoradiation therapy, and prognosis. Response to therapy proved of prognostic significance. A key question that remains is the prompt identification of patients who would benefit from innovative or more intensive therapies.
Background: High-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation after initial cytoreductive chemotherapy with the combination vincristine, doxorubicin and dexamethasone (VAD) is considered an effective therapy for many patients with newly diagnosed, symptomatic multiple myeloma. Response to initial cytoreductive chemotherapy is important for the long-term outcome of such patients. Thalidomide has recently shown significant antimyeloma activity. We studied the efficacy and toxicity of the combination of a liposomal doxorubicin-containing VAD regimen with thalidomide, administered on an outpatient basis, as initial cytoreductive treatment in previously untreated patients with symptomatic myeloma. Patients and methods: Thirty-nine myeloma patients were treated with vincristine 2 mg intravenously (i.v.), liposomal doxorubicin 40 mg/m2 i.v. administered as single dose on day 1, and dexamethasone 40 mg per os daily for 4 days. Dexamethasone was also given on days 15-18 of the first cycle of treatment. The regimen was administered every 4 weeks for four courses. Thalidomide was given daily at a dose of 200 mg at bedtime. Response to treatment was evaluated after four cycles of treatment. After completion of four cycles, the patients were allowed to proceed to high-dose chemotherapy or to receive two additional cycles of the same treatment. Results: On an intention-to-treat basis, 29 of the 39 patients (74%) responded to treatment. Four patients (10%) achieved complete and 25 (64%) partial response. Three patients (8%) showed minor response and seven (18%) were rated as non-responders. Major grade 3 or 4 toxicities consisted of neutropenia (15%), thrombocytopenia (15%), deep vein thrombosis (10%), constipation (10%), skin rash (5%) and peripheral neuropathy (5%). Two patients (5%) experienced early death due to infection. Conclusions: The combination of vincristine, liposomal doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (VAD doxil) with thalidomide is an effective and relatively well-tolerated initial cytoreductive treatment.Prospective randomized studies are required in order to assess the effect of this regimen on the long-term outcome of patients with multiple myeloma.
The low-energy levels of 120Pd74 were populated by ? decay of 120Rh75, which was produced via projectile fragmentation of a 136Xe82 beam at 120 MeV/nucleon. Delayed ?-gated ? rays with energies of 438 and 618 keV were observed in coincidence with 120Rh75 fragments and assigned to the 21+ ? 0+ and 41+ ? 21+ transitions, respectively, in 120Pd74. Isomeric ?-ray transitions are also reported for 120Rh75 and 126Cd78. The low-energy structure of 120Pd74 shows remarkable similarity to those of the isotopic 108Pd62 and isotonic 128Xe74 suggesting that these nuclides share the same Z=50 and N=82 closed shell structures with neutron-rich 120Pd 74.
Purpose: To evaluate the prognostic significance of the immunohistochemical expression of p53, bcl-2, c-erbB-2 and cathepsin-D in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods: We analyzed 100 patients with ovarian carcinoma, FIGO Stage IC-IV who underwent primary cytoreductive surgery and received adjuvant chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide and a platinum analogue (CP) (n = 46) or paclitaxel and a platinum analogue (TP) (n = 54). Immunohistochemical expression was studied on paraffin-embedded tissue from the primary tumor. Results: After a median follow-up of 55 months median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 16 and 41 months, respectively. Positive bcl-2 staining and absence of cathepsin-D expression were associated with an increased complete response rate in the CP group (p = 0.011 and p = 0.003) but not in the TP group. PFS and OS were not associated with the expression of any of the markers studied. FIGO stage (p = 0.006) and histology (p = 0.047) were the only independent prognostic factors for survival. Conclusion: Bcl2 and cathepsin D expression are associated with response to CP but not TP chemotherapy. P53, bcl-2, c-erb B-2 and cathepsin D expression was not correlated with PFS and OS in our study.
We examine how an in-plane magnetic field B modifies the density of states (DOS) in narrow-to-wide, conduction-band dilute-magnetic semiconductor quantum wells. We demonstrate that the DOS diverges significantly from the ideal steplike two-dimensional electron gas form and this causes severe changes to the physical properties, e.g., to the spin-subband populations, the internal and free energy, the Shannon entropy, and the in-plane magnetization M. We predict a considerable fluctuation of M in cases of vigorous competition between spatial and magnetic confinement.
Pseudomonas luteola is uncommonly implicated in clinical infections, but it constitutes a significant nosocomial pathogen causing mainly infections associated with foreign material. This report describes an unusual case of a Pseudomonas luteola strain that infected and caused cutaneous abscess and bacteraemia in a previously healthy man.
Τα εκπαιδευτικά συστήματα κατά καιρούς ρυθμίζονται είτε για να διορθωθούν κάποιες ατέλειες της προηγούμενης ρύθμισης, είτε για να ανταποκριθούν σε νέες ανάγκες των καιρών. Οι ρυθμίσεις αυτές ονομάζονται συνήθως "εκπαιδευτικές μεταρρυθμίσεις"...Οι νέες τεχνολογίες μπορούν να προσφέρουν κάποιες δυνατότητες οι οποίες δε θα υπήρχαν χωρίς αυτές ή/ και θα κόστιζαν πολύ ακριβά...Το ερώτημα είναι μήπως η τεχνολογία φέρνει μαζί της το σπόρο μίας μεγάλης μεταρρύθμισης και όχι μίας μικρής ρύθμισης όπως αυτές που έγιναν κατά καιρούς...Η προσεχής μεταρρύθμιση φαίνεται ότι θα έχει πολλούς στόχους...Επομένως, το μελλοντικό σχολείο πρέπει να μεταπλασθεί σε "εργαστήριο γνώσης" όπου ο μαθητής παύει να είναι απλός θεατής και γίνεται "πρώιμος μέτοχος"...Τα παιδιά είναι περισσότερο έτοιμα από όλους μας για μία παρόμοια εναρκτήρια φάση της μεταρρύθμισης. Είναι απαραίτητη για να προχωρήσουν μπροστά οι ιδιαίτερα ταλαντούχοι μαθητές μας, αλλά θα επωφεληθούν σημαντικά και οι υπόλοιποι μαθητές για να γίνουν και αυτοί περισσότερο ταλαντούχοι...Το βιβλίο αυτό είναι αφιερωμένο σε νέες προσεγγίσεις της διδασκαλίας των μαθηματικών...Οι συγγραφείς του είναι όλοι άνθρωποι με μεγάλη εξειδίκευση και εμπειρία στα εκπαιδευτικά θέματα. Εντυπωσιάστηκα διαβάζοντας τις συνεισφορές τους λίγο πριν πάνε στο τυπογραφείο...
Radial velocity measurements and sine-curve fits to the orbital velocity variations are presented for the eighth set of 10 close binary systems: AB And, V402 Aur, V445 Cep, V2082 Cyg, BX Dra, V918 Her, V502 Oph, V1363 Ori, KP Peg, and V335 Peg. Half of the systems (V445 Cep, V2082 Cyg, V918 Her, V1363 Ori, and V335 Peg) were discovered photometrically by the Hipparcos mission, and all systems are double-lined (SB2) contact binaries. The broadening function method permitted improvement of the orbital elements for AB And and V502 Oph. The other systems have been observed for radial velocity variations for the first time; in this group are five bright (V<7.5) binaries: V445 Cep, V2082 Cyg, V918 Her, KP Peg, and V335 Peg. Several of the studied systems are prime candidates for combined light and radial velocity synthesis solutions. Based on the data obtained at the David Dunlap Observatory, University of Toronto.
The regions around the doubly magic nuclei 100Sn and 78Ni are of great interest from a nuclear structure standpoint. These nuclei also play a key role in the astrophysical rp- and r-processes, respectively. Recently, nuclei in these regions were studied at the Coupled Cyclotron Facility at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) at Michigan State University.
A review of recent advances in spintronics is presented. We report the structural, magnetic, electrical and thermal properties of the ferromagnetic half-Heusler alloy NiMnSb grown by arcmelting. The bulk material is used to deposit highly crystalline thin films at low temperature (200°C) by Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD). The structural and magnetic and transport properties of these films are nearly bulk-like suggesting that these films can be grown by PLD in multilayer structures for efficient spin injection in spintronics.
In this study, a comprehensive methodology for modelling the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic is proposed to predict the future disease burden and assess whether the recent decline in the incidence of HCV may affect the future occurrence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases. Using the prevalence of HCV, the distribution of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients within the various transmission groups and their infection-onset times, it was possible to reconstruct the incident infections per year in the past that progressed to CHC in Greece. The natural history of the disease was simulated in subcohorts of newly infected subjects using transition probabilities derived either empirically between fibrosis stages 0-4 or from literature review. Annual estimates of the incidence and prevalence of CHC by fibrosis stage, HCC and mortality in Greece were obtained up to 2030. HCV incidence peaked in the late 1980s at five new infections/10,000 person-years. Under the assumption of 20-100% decline in HCV incidence after 1990, the cumulative number of incident cirrhosis and HCC cases from 2002-2030 was projected to be lower by 9.6-48.2% and 5.9-29.5%, respectively, than that estimated under the assumption of no decline. However, the prevalent cirrhotic/HCC cases and HCV-related deaths are predicted to decline in the next 30 years only under the assumption of complete elimination of new HCV infections after 1990. Despite the progress in the reduction of HCV transmission, primary prevention does not seem adequate to reverse the rise in the incidence of cirrhosis and HCC.
Gerolymatos PG, Manenkov AB, Tigelis IG, Amditis AJ. Reflectivity of buried slab waveguides. Journal of the Optical Society of America A: Optics and Image Science, and Vision [Internet]. 2004;21:2009-2018. Website
Language relativism can be associated with two major conceptions: that “eachlanguage has or is a particular spirit” and that “each language has or is a—real or imagined—territory.” Spirituality and territoriality combined giverise to the ideology of a language as a realm. This ideology of Modern Greekas a regime language has become dominant after the official establishment of astandard norm (demotic) and the resolution of the perennial “GreekLanguage Question.” As it is evidenced by a host of “language issues” raisedin the Greek newspapers since 1976, relativism has determined what countedas a “language issue” that was worth publishing, which language issues wereeligible for public debates, and the extent to which language issues were allowedto penetrate “public opinion.”
There are observational indications that relativistic outflows in AGNs are accelerated over distances that far exceed the scale of the central engine. Examples include the radio galaxy NGC 6251, where knots in the radio jets were inferred to accelerate from ∼0.13 c at a distance of ∼0.53 pc from the galactic nucleus to ∼0.42 c at r=1.0 pc, and the quasar 3C 345, where the Lorentz factor of the radio knot C7 was deduced to increase from ∼ 5 to >10 as it moved from r=3 pc to r=20 pc}. It is argued, using exact semianalytic solutions of the relativistic MHD equations, that this behavior is a signature of magnetic acceleration. The same basic driving mechanism may apply to the relativistic jets in AGNs, gamma-ray burst sources, and microquasars.
There are observational indications that relativistic outflows in AGNs are accelerated over distances that far exceed the scale of the central engine. Examples include the radio galaxy NGC 6251, where knots in the radio jets were inferred to accelerate from ∼0.13 c at a distance of ∼0.53 pc from the galactic nucleus to ∼0.42 c at r=1.0 pc, and the quasar 3C 345, where the Lorentz factor of the radio knot C7 was deduced to increase from ∼ 5 to >10 as it moved from r=3 pc to r=20 pc}. It is argued, using exact semianalytic solutions of the relativistic MHD equations, that this behavior is a signature of magnetic acceleration. The same basic driving mechanism may apply to the relativistic jets in AGNs, gamma-ray burst sources, and microquasars.
Spherically symmetric hydrodynamical outflows accelerated thermally in the vicinity of a compact object are studied by generalizing an equation of state with a variable effective polytropic index, appropriate to describe relativistic temperatures close to the central object and nonrelativistic ones further away. Relativistic effects introduced by the Schwarzschild metric and the presence of relativistic temperatures in the corona are compared with previous results for a constant effective polytropic index and also with results of the classical wind theory. By a parametric study of the polytropic index and the location of the sonic transition it is found that space time curvature and relativistic temperatures tend to increase the efficiency of thermal driving in accelerating the outflow. Thus conversely to the classical Parker wind, the outflow is accelerated even for polytropic indices higher than 3/2. The results of this simple but fully relativistic extension of the polytropic equation of state may be useful in simulations of outflows from hot coronae in black hole magnetospheres.
We report on magnetic measurements as a function of field, temperature and time (relaxation) in superconducting Nb films of critical temperature T-c = 9.25 K. The magnetic measurements as a function of field exhibited a "second magnetization peak" (SMP) which in general is accompanied by thermomagnetic instabilities (TMIs). The lines H-smp(T) where the SMP occurs and the H-fj(T) where the first flux jump in the virgin magnetization curves is observed, end at a characteristic point (T-0, H-0) approximate to (7.2K, 80 Oe). Relaxation measurements showed that for T < T-0 approximate to 7.2 K the activation energy U-0 and the normalized relaxation rate S exhibit non-monotonic behavior as a function either of temperature or field. The extrema observed in U-0 and S coincide with the points H-on(T) or H-smp(T) of the SMP. In the regime T > T-0 approximate to 7.2 K both U-0 and S present a conventional monotonic behavior. These results indicate that the SMP behavior observed in Our Nb films is promoted by the anomalous relaxation of the magnetization. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of markers of bone remodelling, and osteoclast activation/function in patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). We have measured serum levels of soluble RANKL (sRANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1α), markers of bone resorption [N-telopeptide of collagen type-I (NTX), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoform-5b (TRACP-Sb)] and bone formation [bone-alkaline phosphatase (bALP)] in 40 MGUS patients. These parameters were compared with those of 42 newly diagnosed myeloma patients, and 45 healthy, gender- and age-matched controls. MGUS patients had elevated levels of NTX, sRANKL, and sRANKL/OPG ratio compared with controls (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, TRACP-5b, MIP-1α and NTX were decreased in patients with MGUS compared with myeloma patients (P < 0.001), while OPG and bALP were increased (P < 0.001). Serum levels of MIP-1α, as well as TRACP-Sb, and sRANKL/OPG ratio were reduced, while bALP was increased in MGUS patients, even when compared with myeloma patients who had stage I/II disease. These results demonstrate that increased osteoclastogenesis leading to increased bone resorption is present in MGUS but seems to be compensated for by normal bone formation, which is absent in MM. Furthermore MIP-1α, bALP, and sRANKL/OPG may be useful tools for distinguishing between cases of MGUS and early myeloma.
Papaparaskevas J, Houhoula DP, Papadimitriou M, Saroglou G, Legakis NJ, Zerva L. Ruling out Bacillus anthracis. Emerg Infect Dis. 2004;10(4):732-5.Abstract
Optimization of methods for ruling out Bacillus anthracis leads to increased yields, faster turnaround times, and a lighter workload. We used 72 environmental non-B. anthracis bacilli to validate methods for ruling out B. anthracis. Most effective were the use of horse blood agar, motility testing after isolates had a 2-h incubation in trypticase soy broth, and screening isolates with a B. anthracis-selective agar.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the predictive value of serum beta2-microglobulin (beta2m) levels for virological breakthrough in hepatitis B e antigen-negative chronic hepatitis B patients under long term lamivudine monotherapy.
METHODS: Serum beta2m levels were calculated at baseline and every three months during lamivudine monotherapy in 25 patients with chronic hepatitis B, using microparticle enzyme immunoassay technology to investigate their association with biochemical, virological and histological outcome data. Cox proportional hazard models were used to investigate the association between serum beta2m levels and virological breakthrough.
RESULTS: Seven of 25 (28%), nine of 25 (36%) and 14 of 25 (56%) chronic hepatitis B patients exhibited virological breakthrough at months 12, 24 and 36 of treatment, respectively. All chronic hepatitis B patients who did not show virological breakthrough in the follow-up period exhibited beta2m elevation in month 3 of treatment. The duration (in months) of serum beta2m elevation was significantly higher in the responders group than the nonresponders group (7.3 +/- 2.6 versus 3.8 +/- 3.4, P=0.02). In contrast to patients whose serum beta2m levels were increased at three months, patients whose beta2m levels were decreased had a 4.6 times higher risk of experiencing virological breakthrough (hazards ratio 4.6, 95% CI 1.22 to 17.36). When age, pretreatment serum alanine aminotransferase and hepatitis B virus DNA levels, and grade of liver disease were simultaneously included in the same Cox model, decreased beta2m status was still associated with increased risk of virological breakthrough (hazards ratio 12.2, 95% CI 1.28 to 116.8).
CONCLUSIONS: In hepatitis B e antigen-negative chronic hepatitis B patients under long term lamivudine monotherapy, serum b2m levels at three months of treatment, compared with baseline levels, are good predictors of risk for virological breakthrough.
BACKGROUND: The effect of dietary nucleotides on lipid metabolism has been the subject of clinical studies with conflicting results. We measured serum triglycerides, total cholesterol (total-C), and lipoprotein cholesterol levels (HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL-C) in preterm neonates fed formula with and without nucleotide supplements. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, controlled study included 150 healthy preterm neonates (gestational age, 33.0 +/- 1.9 weeks) matched for gestational age, birth weight, and gender. Subjects were assigned at birth to receive either a standard milk formula supplemented with nucleotides (group F-NT) or the same formula without nucleotides (group F). Serum was obtained before discharge (29.1 +/- 10.0 days of life) and triglycerides, total-C, and HDL-C were determined enzymatically. LDL-C and VLDL-C were estimated by the Friedewald formula. For statistical analysis t test, Mann Whitney-U test, two-way ANOVA, and chi2 test were used, as appropriate. The influence of several factors on serum lipid levels was evaluated by linear regression analysis. RESULTS: Serum triglycerides, total-C, and VLDL-C levels did not differ between groups. HDL-C levels (median; 25th-75th percentiles) were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in group F-NT (48.0 mg/dL; 40.5-57.0 mg/dL) than in group F (34.5 mg/dL; 27.2-44.0 mg/dL). On the contrary, LDL-C levels (median; 25th-75th percentiles) were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in group F-NT (39.0 mg/dL; 26.0-54.0 mg/dL) than in group F (65.0 mg/dL; 41.0-73.0 mg/dL). In the multiple regression analysis, nucleotide supplementation was identified as one of the controlled independent factors influencing serum HDL-C and LDL-C levels. CONCLUSIONS: Preterm neonates fed from birth with formula supplemented with nucleotides have significantly higher HDL-C and lower LDL-C serum levels than do neonates fed unsupplemented formula. The clinical relevance of these results remains to be elucidated.
The forced swim test (FST) has been considered as a pharmacologically valid test of the depressive syndrome in rodents. However, few studies have focused on neurochemical and behavioral responses during FST in both male and female rats. Thus, we investigated certain behavioral and neuroendocrine responses as well as the serotonergic activity after the application of FST in both sexes. Our data show that the duration of immobility was increased in both male and female rats during the 2nd session of the FST. Sex differences are observed in some behavioral responses, such as head swinging that is mostly present in male rats. In female rats FST induced a decrease in serotonergic activity in hippocampus and hypothalamus while in male rats it induced an increase in serotonergic activity in hypothalamus. Corticosterone serum levels were elevated in both sexes. However, hippocampal GR mRNA levels tended to be increased in males and females respectively. Moreover, hypothalamic serotonin (5-HT)1A mRNA levels were decreased in female rats while in male rats hippocampal 5-HT1A mRNA levels were increased. These data have shown that FST induces "depressive like symptoms" in both sexes and provide evidence that sex differences characterize certain behavioral aspects in the FST. Notably, hippocampal and hypothalamic serotonergic activity has been differentially modified in male rats compared with female rats and these neurochemical findings could be relevant to the differentiated expression of 5-HT1A receptor. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity was also affected by FST application in a sex specific manner. The present results support that FST induced behavioral, neurochemical and neurobiological alterations, which are sex dependent.
Kamberidou, I. (2004). “Slavery of the Mind and “Mental Imprisonment” (1870) in the harem: the Bodiless Society, a de-gendered or gender-neutral emancipatory social space? Opening presentation (10.30 -11.00) to the ‘Virtual Harem’ for the Consultation Workshop on Gender and Technology, European Commission – Information Society DG. Avenue de Beaulieu 31 6/30, 1160 Brussels, 28 June 2004 [explanation of power structures, limits and lessons that can be drawn] M. 1. in Apella,
Includes Consultation Workshop on Gender and Technology report on presentations, along with Preliminary Agenda/first draft (before corrections) for Gender and Technology Consultation Workshop, European Commission, Brussels
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Gastrointestinal and pancreatic fistulas are characterized as serious complications following abdominal surgery, with a reported incidence of up to 27% and 46%, respectively. Fistula formation results in prolonged hospitalization, increased morbidity/mortality and increased treatment costs. Conservative and surgical approaches are both employed in the management of these fistulas. The purpose of the present study was to assess, evaluate and compare the potential clinical benefit and cost effectiveness of pharmacotherapy (somatostatin versus its analogue octreotide) versus conventional therapy.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty-one patients with gastrointestinal or pancreatic fistulas were randomized to three treatment groups: 19 patients received 6000 IU/day of somatostatin intravenously, 17 received 100 microg of octreotide three times daily subcutaneously and 15 patients received only standard medical treatment.
RESULTS: The fistula closure rate was 84% in the somatostatin group, 65% in the octreotide group and 27% in the control group. These differences were of statistical significance (P=0.007). Overall mortality rate was less than 5% and statistically significant differences in mortality among the three groups could not be established. Overall, treatment with somatostatin and octreotide was more cost effective than conventional therapy (control group), and somatostatin was more cost effective than octreotide. The average hospital stay was 21.6 days, 27.0 and 31.5 days for the somatostatin, octreotide and control groups, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: Data suggest that pharmacotherapy reduces the costs involved in fistula management (by reducing hospitalization) and also offers increased spontaneous closure rate. Further prospective studies focusing on the above parameters are needed to demonstrate the clinicoeconomic benefits.
Τα φυτά ήταν εκεί. προϋπήρχαν. Φυτά μακρόβια. αείφυλλα. βαθύρριζα. ανθεκτικά. εύοσμα. λευκανθή. συμβόλιζαν αλληγορικά τα ιδεώδη. Φυτά που άγγιζαν. στόλιζαν. ζύμωναν την καθημερινότητα στην ιερή Aλτη. Φυτά με αναγεννητικές δυνάμεις. Η ισχυρή δρυς. Η λεύκα της θυσίας. Η λυγαριά της αγνότητας. Η μεθυστική άμπελος. Ο συναπτόμενος κισσός. Η ερωτική μυρτιά. Ο δοξασμένος φοίνικας. Η μαντική δάφνη. Η ιερή ελιά... Διαβάζοντας τα Συμβολικά φυτά των Ολυμπιακών Αγώνων θα ανακαλύψετε όσα σχετικά είχε γράψει ο Θεόφραστος πριν από είκοσι τέσσερις αιώνες -αι παραδεδομέναι φήμαι παρά των μυθολόγων· ελάαν μεν γαρ λέγουσι την Αθήνησι. φοίνικα δε τον εν Δήλω. κότινον δε τον εν Ολυμπία. αφ ου ο στέφανος- και θα μάθετε πολλά για τη χρήση. το μύθο. την ονομασία. τη φυσική ιστορία. Τέλος. θα απολαύσετε το εικονογραφικό υλικό με τα φυτά της Ελλάδας. όπως αποτυπώθηκαν τον 18ο αιώνα από έναν μεγάλο ζωγράφο. Στην αρχαία Ολυμπία ό.τι απέμεινε απλώνεται. διαχέεται κι έρχεται από την όχθη της αθανασίας να αγγίξει το παρόν και το μέλλον. Τα φυτά εξακολουθούν ν αναπτύσσονται εκεί. ως αναπόσπαστο μέρος του ξακουστού τοπίου.
Από την εφημερίδα του ΕΚΠΑ, Το Καποδιστριακό, 1/2/2005: Με την ευκαιρία της τέλεσης των Oλυμπιακών Αγώνων στην πατρίδα μας, πολλά ήταν τα βιβλία που κυκλοφορήθηκαν με θεματολόγιο αντλημένο από την ιστορία τους. Ένα από αυτά τα μελετήματα είναι και το εκδοθέν από την «Εστία» βιβλίο της επίκ. καθηγήτριας του Τμήματος Βιολογίας Σοφίας Ριζοπούλου που εκπόνησε σε συνεργασία με τη φοιτήτριά της Αννέτα Ρίζου, σχετικά με τα Συμβολικά φυτά των Oλυμπιακών Αγώνων. Ξεκινώντας τη μελέτη τους από ορισμένα εδάφια του Θεόφραστου που αναφέρονται σε συμβολικά φυτά και αντλώντας πλούσιο εικονογραφικό υλικό από το μνημειώδες έργο «Flora Graeca» του J. Sibthorp (1758-1796) και τα περιλαμβανόμενα σε αυτό σχέδια του F. L. Bauer (1760-1826), δημιούργησαν έναν κομψό και καλαίσθητο τόμο, πλούσια διακοσμημένο με ενδιαφέρουσες εικόνες. Στον πρόλογο του τόμου τονίζεται ότι «Με το εικονογραφικό υλικό, ως μέσο έκφρασης, το βιβλίο που κρατάτε στα χέρια σας, αφορά 25 φυτικά είδη που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν κατά τους αρχαίους Oλυμπιακούς Αγώνες. Η αναφορά μας έχει σχέση με τη χρήση, τον μύθο, την ονομασία, και τη φυσική και την ιστορία. Τα φυτά άγγιζαν, στόλιζαν και ζύμωναν την καθημερινότητα στην ιερή Άλτη».
Sophia R. Aspects of cell wall extensibility in Ceratonia siliqua L. Flora - Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants. 2004;199: 327-333.
The article concentrates on setting some specific criteria for the EIL (‘English as an international language’) classroom and raising teachers’ awareness of what is needed in order to identify and teach EIL classrooms. It starts by distinguishing between those communicative and teaching situations that are norm-bound and those that prioritise interlocutors’ mutual comprehensibility and cultural identity. On that basis, it goes on to delineate the EIL domain in norm-bound terms and suggests that teachers should also concentrate on teaching English as an intercultural language (EIcL). It subsequently addresses the following questions: What are the defining characteristics of an EIL/EIcL situation? How can a teacher identify such a situation and by what means can this be done? To what extent are EIL/EIcL situations similar to or different from other ESL, EFL, or more general ESOL situations? Are all EIL/EIcL situations around the world the ‘same’ and, if not, to what extent are they similar/different? To what extent do learners’ and teachers’ attitudes towards English, language learning and their own national, cultural and personal identity matter in EIL/EIcL learning/teaching?
The magnetic properties of the polymerized phase of RbC60 have been investigated by static magnetization measurements. The magnetic susceptibility comprises a temperature dependent part that decreases rapidly below 50 K, where the metal-insulator transition and the subsequent antiferromagnetic ordering are expected according to electron spin resonance results. The temperature variation of this contribution resembles that of quasi-one-dimensional gapped systems and shows substantial field dependence suggesting a disordered antiferromagnetic phase.
A brief review is given of some results of our work on the construction of (I) steady and (II) time-dependent MHD models for nonrelativistic and relativistic astrophysical outflows and jets, analytically and numerically. The only available exact solutions for MHD outflows are those in separable coordinates, i.e., with the symmetry of radial or meridional self-similarity. Physically accepted solutions pass from the fast magnetosonic separatrix surface in order to satisfy MHD causality. An energetic criterion is outlined for selecting radially expanding winds from cylindrically expanding jets. Numerical simulations of magnetic self-collimation verify the conclusions of analytical steady solutions. We also propose a two-component model consisting of a wind outflow from a central object and a faster rotating outflow launched from a surrounding accretion disk which plays the role of the flow collimator. We also discuss the problem of shock formation during the magnetic collimation of wind-type outflows into jets.
A brief review is given of some results of our work on the construction of (I) steady and (II) time-dependent MHD models for nonrelativistic and relativistic astrophysical outflows and jets, analytically and numerically. The only available exact solutions for MHD outflows are those in separable coordinates, i.e., with the symmetry of radial or meridional self-similarity. Physically accepted solutions pass from the fast magnetosonic separatrix surface in order to satisfy MHD causality. An energetic criterion is outlined for selecting radially expanding winds from cylindrically expanding jets. Numerical simulations of magnetic self-collimation verify the conclusions of analytical steady solutions. We also propose a two-component model consisting of a wind outflow from a central object and a faster rotating outflow launched from a surrounding accretion disk which plays the role of the flow collimator. We also discuss the problem of shock formation during the magnetic collimation of wind-type outflows into jets.
A novel class of inhibitors of human digestive lipases have been developed. Various sterically hindered triacylglycerols based on 2-methyl- and 2-butylglycerol, and/or 2-methyl fatty acids were synthesized. The triacylglycerol analogues were tested for their ability to form stable monomolecular films at the air/water interface by recording their surface-pressure/molecular-area compression isotherms. The inhibition of human pancreatic and gastric lipases by the sterically hindered triacylglycerol analogues was studied by using the monolayer technique with mixed films of 1,2-dicaprin, which contained variable proportions of each inhibitor. Triolein analogues that contain a butyl group at the 2-position of the glycerol backbone or methyl groups both at the 2-position of glycerol, and the α-position of each oleic acid residue were potent inhibitors; this caused a 50 % decrease in HPL activity at 0.003 molar fraction.
Η διπλωματική εργασία μεταπτυχιακής ειδίκευσης, η οποία εγκρίθηκε από τη Γενική Συνέλευση του Τμήματος Θεολογίας Α.Π.Θ με το βαθμό «΄Αριστα» το Δεκέμβριο του 1992. Τα δύο πρωτότυπα σημεία στη μελέτη αυτή είναι ο ηθικός σχολιασμός των αντισυλληπτικών μεθόδων και τεχνικών μέσων (β΄κεφάλαιο) και η τυποποίηση των απαντήσεων των ποιμένων για την αντιμετώπιση των θεμάτων της τεκνογονίας και της αντισύλληψης στον ορθόδοξο γάμο (γ΄κεφάλαιο).
Στην εισαγωγή της εργασίας επισημαίνεται η σπουδαιότητα του θέματος και παρατίθεται η σχετική με αυτό προβληματική.
Το πρώτο κεφάλαιο έχει τίτλο «H τεκνογονία ως σκοπός του γάμου στην ορθόδοξη παράδοση» και διαιρείται σε δύο υποενότητες. H πρώτη, η οποία επιγράφεται «Ο Γάμος και οι σκοποί του» αποτελείται από δύο παραγράφους. Στην πρώτη ορίζεται ο χριστιανικός γάμος με βάση τη βιβλική και πατερική παράδοση, ενώ στη δεύτερη παράγραφο επιχειρείται προσπάθεια προσδιορισμού των σκοπών του. Στη δεύτερη ενότητα του ίδιου κεφαλαίου διερευνάται το πρόβλημα της τεκνογονίας όπως αυτό αντιμετωπίζεται στην ορθόδοξη θεολογία.
Το δεύτερο κεφάλαιο αναφέρεται στην «Aντισύλληψη και τον Οικογενειακό προγραμματισμό». Περιγράφονται τα μέσα και οι μέθοδοι που χρησιμοποιούνται για αντισύλληψη. Επισημαίνεται ότι και οι φυσικές μέθοδοι απαιτούν τεχνική για την αποτελεσματική εφαρμογή τους και επομένως το ηθικό δίλημμα για την χρήση μιας φυσικής ή τεχνικής μεθόδου είναι πλασματικό. Και στη μία και στην άλλη περίπτωση εκείνο που κυρίως κρίνεται είναι η πρόθεση για φυγοτεκνία και όχι το χρησιμοποιούμενο μέσο. Όπως εξάλλου σημειώνεται, η γνώση των μέσων και των μεθόδων κρίνεται απαραίτητη, όχι μόνο για τους πιστούς αλλά και για τους πoιμένες, καθόσον ορισμένα από αυτά δεν δρουν μόνο αντισυλληπτικά, αλλά και εκτρωτικά.
Το τρίτο κεφάλαιo επιγράφεται «H τεκνoγoνία στη σύγχρονη πoιμαντική πράξη» και αποτελεί το σημαντικότερο τμήμα της μελέτης, καθώς συνιστά καρπό ερευνητικής προσπάθειας. Η τέταρτη παράγραφος είναι η πλέον ενδιαφέρουσα και πρωτότυπη της μελέτης, καθώς ασχολείται με την τυπολογία της σύγχρονης ποιμαντικής στο θέμα αυτό, όπως προκύπτει από τις απαντήσεις των ερωτηθέντων πνευματικών.
Τα ερωτήματα που τέθηκαν στους πνευματικούς ήταν τα εξής: α) Ποιος ο σκοπός του ορθόδοξου γάμου και ποιος της συζυγικής συνουσίας; β) Ο σύγχρονος χριστιανός έχει το δικαίωμα να ρυθμίζει τη γονιμότητα και να προγραμματίζει την οικογένεια; γ) Ποια είναι η θέση σας για την αντισύλληψη ως πράξη ρυθμίσεως των γεννήσεων και ποια για τα αντισυλληπτικά μέσα; δ) Ποια είναι η γνώμη σας για τη μέθοδο των γόνιμων και άγονων ημερών; ε) Ποια είναι η σχέση της χρήσης αντισυλληπτικών μέσων και της συμμετοχής στο μυστήριο της Θείας Ευχαριστίας; στ) Ποια είναι η γνώμη σας για τη συζυγική συνουσία κατά την περίοδο της εγκυμοσύνης; στ) Ποια είναι η γνώμη σας για την εγκύκλιο του 1937;
Οι ποιμαντικοί τύποι αναφέρονται στα προβλήματα της τεκνογονίας, του ελέγχου των γεννήσεων, της αντισύλληψης, της ρυθμίσεως της ανθρώπινης γονιμότητας και του προγραμματισμού της οικογένειας. 'Ετσι διακρίνονται δύο κυρίως γραμμές: α) H παραδοσιακή (που εκφράζεται με δύο τύπους: τον αυστηρό και τον επιεική) και β) η νεωτερίζουσα. Ανάλογες με τους τύπους που αναφέρθηκαν είναι και οι απαντήσεις στα ερωτήματα αυτά. Οι χαρακτηρισμοί αποτελούν προσωπικές εκτιμήσεις και επιλογές του γράφοντος.
Η εργασία κατακλείεται με τον επίλογο, όπου παρουσιάζονται τα πορίσματα. Τέλος, στο παράρτημα παρατίθενται τρία κείμενα, που συνδέονται άμεσα με το υπό πραγμάτευση θέμα, δηλαδή: 1) Η περί του ζητήματος της τεκνογονίας εγκύκλιος της Ιεραρχίας της Εκκλησίας της Ελλάδος του 1937, 2) «Το διάγγελμα της Iεραρχίας της Εκκλησίας της Eλλάδoς προς τον λαόν περί τεκνογονίας (9.10.1978)», 3) Ο Νόμος υπ' αρ. 1036/1980 για τον οικογενειακό προγραμματισμό και για άλλες διατάξεις καθώς και τα στατιστικά στοιχεία με τις θέσεις των εγγάμων και αγάμων πνευματικών, που συμμετείχαν στην έρευνα.
Σε επικείμενη έκδοση θα συμπεριληφθούν οι διορθώσεις των λαθών, τα οποία επισημάνθηκαν όλα αυτά τα χρόνια και θα προστεθεί η βιβλιογραφική ενημέρωσή της.
ISBN 960- 7814-23-1. Κωδικός Βιβλίου στον Εύδοξο: 24999
We propose a process by which the kinetic energy of the protons, that carry most of the energy of GRB relativistic blast waves (RBW), is converted explosively into relativistic electrons of the same Lorentz factor, which then produce the observed prompt γ-ray emission of the burst. This conversion is the result of the combined effects of the reflection of photons produced within the flow by upstream located matter, their re-interception and conversion into e +e --pairs on the RBW by the pγ→ pe +e - reaction. This process depends on kinematic and dynamic thresholds; the former depends on the RBW Lorentz factor Γ while the second on the column density of the post shock matter to the pγ→e +e - reaction; this latter condition is in effect that of the criticality of a nuclear pile, hence the erminology. It is shown that, when operating near threshold, the resulting GRB spectrum produces its peak luminosity at energy (in the lab frame) E≃ mec2, thereby providing an answer to this outstanding question of GRBs.
Novel anomeric spironucleosides and 1'-cyano-2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dideoxyuridine, a structural analogue of known anti-HIV agent, were prepared by nucleophilic addition of organolithium reagents to 1'-cyano-2'deoxy- and 1'-cyano-2'-deoxy-2'beta-bromouridine derivatives, respectively. The yield and distribution of products depended on the reaction conditions, whichwere studied in detail. Although none of the compounds exhibited antiviral activit, twocompounds displayed cytostatic activity against both murine leukemia and human T-lymphocyte cells.
Novel anomeric spironucleosides and 1′-cyano-2′,3′- didehydro-2′,3′-dideoxyuridine, a structural analogue of known anti-HIV agents, were prepared by nucleophilic addition of organolithium reagents to 1′-cyano-2′-deoxy- and 1′-cyano-2′-deoxy- 2′$\beta$-bromo-uridine derivatives, respectively. The yield and distribution of products depended on the reaction conditions, which were studied in detail. Although none of the compounds exhibited antiviral activity, two compounds displayed cytostatic activity against both murine leukemia and human T-lymphocyte cells.
The synthesis and physical properties of arc melted NiMnSb were studied using X-ray diffraction analysis. It was observed that the half metallicity in NiMnSb is supported by the integer saturation magnetization value at 5 K. It was found that the magnetic properties were due to magnetic moments localized at the Mn atoms. The results show that in the temperature region of 80 K to 150 K a crossover takes place from half metallic behavior to normal ferromagnetic behavior.
New BVRI CCD observations of the pulsating star SZ Lyn are presented. The light curves are analyzed using Fourier transform techniques and a new period is determined. A new ephemeris, based on recent times of maxima, is proposed. The photometric data collected over the last 40 years are used to determine the pulsational and orbital elements, since SZ Lyncis is a member of a binary system. The results are compared with those found in previous studies.
SZ Lyncis (=HD 67390) is a high amplitude Delta Scuti star, discovered by Hoffmeister in 1949. Van Genderen (1967) noticed that the residuals in the O-C diagrams followed a sinusoidal variation with a period of Porb = 3.091 years. Several years later, Barnes & Moffett (1975) improved this period to Porb = 3.138 years and suggested that the sinusoidal variations in the O-C diagrams, observed by van Genderen (1967), originate from the light travel time effect, since SZ Lyn is a member of a binary system. This hypothesis was confirmed by Bardin & Imbert (1984) with measurements of radial velocities. Soliman et al. (1986) found the pulsation period to be 0.120534896 days and the orbital period 1173.5 days.
The aim of this study was to investigate children‘s perceptions (i.e. expectations) of the interventions that teachers should implement to deal with their loneliness. The role of significant others in children‘s attempts to cope with loneliness and the children‘s perceptions of that role have been neglected by researchers. A random sample of 180 second, fourth and sixth graders from Athens, the capital of Greece, were individually interviewed. Qualitative analysis using the ‘concept-indicator model‘ (Strauss, 1987) showed that school-age children have an adequate understanding of the loneliness alleviation strategies that teachers can and should use. The strategies may be distinguished into the two already known broad categories of coping, that is problem-focused or active coping strategies (i.e. manifestation of interest and care, intervention in the peer group, encouragement to approach peers and make friends, consultation for personal improvement, informing parents), and emotion-focused or avoidance coping strategies (i.e., emotion regulation, encouragement to engage in activities and inability to cope). Results are discussed in terms of their implications for the role of the teacher in alleviating loneliness, for school-based interventions with this purpose, as well as for their contribution in the existing knowledge about coping with loneliness strategies.
Patsantaras N, Kamberidou I. Technoethics-Technoethos. In: Second study presented [submitted] at the Consultation Workshop on Gender and Technology in Brussels, 28 June 2004, Venue: European Commission, Information Society Directorate-General Miniaturisation, Embedded Systems, Societal Applications. Brussels, Belgium: CORDIS, European Commission; 2004.Abstract
Patsantaras, N. & Kamberidou, I. (2004). Technoethics-Technoethos. Second study presented [and submitted] at the Consultation Workshop on Gender and Technology in Brussels, 28 June 2004, Venue: European Commission, Information Society Directorate-General Miniaturisation, Embedded Systems, Societal Applications, June 28, 2004, Brussels. ***
Also included, Consultation Workshop on Gender and Technology revised report, along with our draft Policy Proposal on GENDER AND THE INFORMATION SOCIETY, July 2004.
A 10 year (1984-93) climatology is given of the global distributions of net shortwave (SW), net longwave (LW) and net all-wave radiation budget at both top-of-atmosphere (TOA) and at the Earth's surface, on a mean monthly basis, computed with a radiative transfer model with input data for key atmospheric and surface parameters. The model input data were taken from complete and comprehensive global climatological data sets, such as the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project, the National Centers for Environmental Prediction and National Center for Atmospheric Research Global Reanalysis or the TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder, among others. Seasonal and latitudinal variations and mean annual and mean hemispherical and global averages are given, based on model results computed for each month of the period from January 1984 to December 1993. At TOA, the net incoming SW radiation has larger latitudinal variation and range of values (0-400 W m-2) than the outgoing LW radiation (100-350 W m-2). At the surface, the net downward SW radiation has similar features to that at TOA, but with smaller magnitudes. The net upward LW radiation is quite different than at TOA, with a smaller seasonal and geographical variability than the surface net SW radiation. The global system of Earth-atmosphere is found to be net radiatively heated at TOA by 3 W m-2; the Earth's surface is net heated by 98 W m-2, mainly due to solar absorption equal to 147 W m-2, a value in agreement with surface-based measurements. At TOA, there is a radiative energy surplus between 40 °S and 30 °N and a radiative loss poleward; however, at the surface the surplus regions extend from 70 °S to 70 °N. Globally, the atmosphere is found to absorb 27% of the incoming solar radiation at TOA, while it emits 79% of the outgoing terrestrial radiation.
Downwelling longwave fluxes, DLFs, have been derived for each month over a ten year period (1984-1993), on a global scale with a spatial resolution of 2.5x2.5 degrees and a monthly temporal resolution. The fluxes were computed using a deterministic model for atmospheric radiation transfer, along with satellite and reanalysis data for the key atmospheric input parameters, i.e. cloud properties, and specific humidity and temperature profiles. The cloud climatologies were taken from the latest released and improved International Satellite Climatology Project D2 series. Specific humidity and temperature vertical profiles were taken from three different reanalysis datasets; NCEP/NCAR, GEOS, and ECMWF (acronyms explained in main text). DLFs were computed for each reanalysis dataset, with differences reaching values as high as 30 Wm-2 in specific regions, particularly over high altitude areas and deserts. However, globally, the agreement is good, with the rms of the difference between the DLFs derived from the different reanalysis datasets ranging from 5 to 7 Wm-2. The results are presented as geographical distributions and as time series of hemispheric and global averages. The DLF time series based on the different reanalysis datasets show similar seasonal and inter-annual variations, and similar anomalies related to the 86/87 El Niño and 89/90 La Niña events. The global ten-year average of the DLF was found to be between 342.2 Wm-2 and 344.3 Wm-2, depending on the dataset. We also conducted a detailed sensitivity analysis of the calculated DLFs to the key input data. Plots are given that can be used to obtain a quick assessment of the sensitivity of the DLF to each of the three key climatic quantities, for specific climatic conditions corresponding to different regions of the globe. Our model downwelling fluxes are validated against available data from ground-based stations distributed over the globe, as given by the Baseline Surface Radiation Network. There is a negative bias of the model fluxes when compared against BSRN fluxes, ranging from -7 to -9 Wm-2, mostly caused by low cloud amount differences between the station and satellite measurements, particularly in cold climates. Finally, we compare our model results with those of other deterministic models and general circulation models.
Highly spin polarized Heusler alloys, NiMnSb and Co2MnSi, attract a great deal of interest as potential spin injectors for spintronic applications. Spintronic devices require control of interfacial properties at the ferromagnet: semiconductor contact. To address this issue we report a systematic study of the ordinary and anomalous Hall effect, in Ni 1.15Mn0.85Sb films on silicon, as a function of film thickness. In contrast to the bulk stoichiometric material, the Hall carriers in these films become increasingly electron-like as the film thickness decreases, and as the temperature increases from 50 K toward room temperature. High field Hall measurements confirm that this is representative of the majority transport carriers. This suggests that current injected from a NiMnSb: semiconductor interface may not necessarily carry the bulk spin polarization. The films also show a low temperature upturn in the resistivity, which is linked to a discontinuity in the anomalous Hall coefficient. Overall these trends indicate that the application of Heusler alloys as spin injectors will require strictly controlled interfacial engineering, which is likely to be demanding in these ternary alloys.
Autopsy specimens are often used in molecular biological studies of disease pathophysiology. However, few analyses have focused specifically on postmortem changes in skeletal muscles, and almost all of those investigate protein or metabolic changes. Although some structural and enzymatic changes have been described, the sequence of transcriptional events associated with these remains unclear. We analyzed a series of new and preexisting human skeletal muscle data sets on approximately 12,500 genes and expressed sequence tags (ESTs) generated by the Affymetrix U95Av2 GeneChips from seven autopsy and seven surgical specimens. Remarkably, postmortem specimens (up to 46 h) revealed a significant and prominent upregulation of transcripts involved with protein biosynthesis. Additional upregulated transcripts are associated with cellular responses to oxidative stress, hypoxia, and ischemia; however, only a subset of genes in these pathways was affected. Overexpression was also seen for apoptosis-related, cell cycle regulation/arrest-related, and signal transduction-related genes. No major gene expression differences were seen between autopsy specimens with <20-h and 34- to 46-h postmortem intervals or between pediatric and adult cases. These data demonstrate that, likely in response to hypoxia and oxidative stress, skeletal muscle undergoes a highly active transcriptional, and possibly, translational phase during the initial 46-h postmortem interval. Knowledge of these changes is important for proper interpretation of gene expression studies utilizing autopsy specimens.
