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We report on a measurement of Spin Density Matrix Elements (SDMEs) in hard exclusive ρ 0 meson muoproduction at COMPASS using 160 GeV/c polarised μ + and μ - beams impinging on a liquid hydrogen target. The measurement covers the kinematic range 5.0 GeV/ c 2 < W < 17.0 GeV/ c 2 , 1.0 (GeV/c) 2 < Q 2 < 10.0 (GeV/c) 2 and 0.01 (GeV/c) 2 < p T 2 < 0.5 (GeV/c) 2 . Here, W denotes the mass of the final hadronic system, Q 2 the virtuality of the exchanged photon, and p T the transverse momentum of the ρ 0 meson with respect to the virtual-photon direction. The measured non-zero SDMEs for the transitions of transversely polarised virtual photons to longitudinally polarised vector mesons ( γ T ∗ → V L ) indicate a violation of s-channel helicity conservation. Additionally, we observe a dominant contribution of natural-parity-exchange transitions and a very small contribution of unnatural-parity-exchange transitions, which is compatible with zero within experimental uncertainties. The results provide important input for modelling Generalised Parton Distributions (GPDs). In particular, they may allow one to evaluate in a model-dependent way the role of parton helicity-flip GPDs in exclusive ρ 0 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoemission spectroscopy is central to understanding the inner workings of condensed matter, from simple metals and semiconductors to complex materials such as Mott insulators and superconductors1. Most state-of-the-art knowledge about such solids stems from spectroscopic investigations, and use of subfemtosecond light pulses can provide a time-domain perspective. For example, attosecond (10−18 seconds) metrology allows electron wave packet creation, transport and scattering to be followed on atomic length scales and on attosecond timescales2-7. However, previous studies could not disclose the duration of these processes, because the arrival time of the photons was not known with attosecond precision. Here we show that this main source of ambiguity can be overcome by introducing the atomic chronoscope method, which references all measured timings to the moment of light-pulse arrival and therefore provides absolute timing of the processes under scrutiny. Our proof-of-principle experiment reveals that photoemission from the tungsten conduction band can proceed faster than previously anticipated. By contrast, the duration of electron emanation from core states is correctly described by semiclassical modelling. These findings highlight the necessity of treating the origin, initial excitation and transport of electrons in advanced modelling of the attosecond response of solids, and our absolute data provide a benchmark. Starting from a robustly characterized surface, we then extend attosecond spectroscopy towards isolating the emission properties of atomic adsorbates on surfaces and demonstrate that these act as photoemitters with instantaneous response. We also find that the tungsten core-electron timing remains unchanged by the adsorption of less than one monolayer of dielectric atoms, providing a starting point for the exploration of excitation and charge migration in technologically and biologically relevant adsorbate systems. The absolute timing of the photoelectric effect has proved difficult to measure, but the delay between photon arrival at a tungsten surface and ejection of photoelectrons has now been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The array of 3 × 3 modules of the electromagnetic calorimeter ECAL0 of the COMPASS experiment at CERN has been tested with an electron beam of the ELSA (Germany) facility. The dependence of the response and the energy resolution of the calorimeter from the angle of incidence of the electron beam has been studied. A good agreement between the experimental data and the results of Monte Carlo simulation has been obtained. It will significantly expand the use of simulation to optimize event reconstruction algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The propagation and transport of electrons in crystals is a fundamental process pertaining to the functioning of most electronic devices. Microscopic theories describe this phenomenon as being based on the motion of Bloch wave packets. These wave packets are superpositions of individual Bloch states with the group velocity determined by the dispersion of the electronic band structure near the central wavevector in momentum space. This concept has been verified experimentally in artificial superlattices by the observation of Bloch oscillations-periodic oscillations of electrons in real and momentum space. Here we present a direct observation of electron wave packet motion in a real-space and real-time experiment, on length and time scales shorter than the Bloch oscillation amplitude and period. We show that attosecond metrology (1 as = 10−18 seconds) now enables quantitative insight into weakly disturbed electron wave packet propagation on the atomic length scale without being hampered by scattering effects, which inevitably occur over macroscopic propagation length scales. We use sub-femtosecond (less than 10−15 seconds) extreme-ultraviolet light pulses to launch photoelectron wave packets inside a tungsten crystal that is covered by magnesium films of varied, well-defined thicknesses of a few ångströms. Probing the moment of arrival of the wave packets at the surface with attosecond precision reveals free-electron-like, ballistic propagation behaviour inside the magnesium adlayer-constituting the semi-classical limit of Bloch wave packet motion. Real-time access to electron transport through atomic layers and interfaces promises unprecedented insight into phenomena that may enable the scaling of electronic and photonic circuits to atomic dimensions. In addition, this experiment allows us to determine the penetration depth of electrical fields at optical frequencies at solid interfaces on the atomic scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large samples of Λ, Σ(1385) and Ξ(1321) hyperons produced in the deep-inelastic muon scattering off a 6LiD target were collected with the COMPASS experimental setup at CERN. The relative yields of Σ(1385) +, Σ(1385) −, $\bar{\varSigma}(1385)^{-}$ , $\bar{\varSigma}(1385)^{+}$ , Ξ(1321) −, and $\bar{\varXi}(1321)^{+}$ hyperons decaying into $\varLambda(\bar{\varLambda})\pi$ were measured. The ratios of heavy-hyperon to Λ and heavy-antihyperon to $\bar{\varLambda}$ were found to be in the range 3.8 % to 5.6 % with a relative uncertainty of about 10 %. They were used to tune the parameters relevant for strange particle production of the LEPTO Monte Carlo generator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Multiplicities of charged hadrons produced in deep inelastic muon scattering off a 6LiD target have been measured as a function of the DIS variables xBj, Q2, W2 and the final state hadron variables pT and z. The $p_{T}^{2}$ distributions are fitted with a single exponential function at low values of $p_{T}^{2}$ to determine the dependence of $\langle p_{T}^{2} \rangle$ on xBj, Q2, W2 and z. The z-dependence of $\langle p_{T}^{2} \rangle$ is shown to be a potential tool to extract the average intrinsic transverse momentum squared of partons, $\langle k_{\perp}^{2} \rangle$ , as a function of xBj and Q2 in a leading order QCD parton model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is evidence for the efficacy of psycho-oncological interventions (POI) in randomized controlled trials for cancer patients. Our objective was to explore, under naturalistic conditions (using propensity score matching), whether POI are effective to decrease anxiety, depression, distress and overall psychopathological symptoms within cancer patients and their partners. Methods: This study was conducted in the Oncology and Hematology Center of a University clinic in Switzerland with a group of 186 patients and 117 partners. Outcome measures of mental health were the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Symptom Checklist (SCL-9-K). Repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to analyze change over time and group effects between individuals with POI vs. without POI. Results: Highly distressed patients and their partners participating in POI reported better mental health over time. Among moderately distressed patients, a decrease over time emerged in depression and distress independent of POI. No effectiveness of POI could be demonstrated in moderately distressed patients and partners. Conclusion: Most of the highly distressed patients receive additional POI and therefore conclusions about the efficacy of POI are difficult. For moderately distressed individuals, POI as implemented in Switzerland does not improve mental health in such patients and their partners, which may be caused by very time limited POI treatments. Studies with more intense POI treatments are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute and chronic diseases of workers exposed to vinyl chloride in the manufacture of vinyl chloride and its polymers are listed as nr. 1302 in the Occupational Disease Ordinance. If employers are exposed to vinyl chloride and show characteristic symptoms of the illness it has to be registered with the accident insurance. Pathological symptoms of integuments, bones, blood vessels, liver and blood were first observed in the 1970s in vinyl chloride workers caused by deficient occupational health and safety. Current safety and health concepts are used to reduce the concentration of vinyl chloride and its metabolites in the workplace and vinyl chloride disease has therefore taken a back seat. Regardless of industrial safety persons with symptoms of vinyl chloride disease in areas of production of polyvinyl chloride in the past have already been registered. Furthermore the importance of vinyl chloride will rise in newly industrialized countries. Because of deficient occupational health and safety programs symptoms of vinyl chloride disease in workers have already found there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of D and D mesons in inelastic scattering of 160 GeV/c muons off a LiD target has been investigated with the COMPASS spectrometer at CERN for 0.003 (GeV/c)< Q<10 (GeV/c) and 3×10< x<0.1. The study is based on 8100 events where a D or $\bar{D}^{0}$ is detected subsequently to a D or D decay, and on 34000 events, where only a D or $\bar{D}^{0}$ is detected. Kinematic distributions of D, D and $K_{2}^{*} (1430)$ are given as a function of their energy E, transverse momentum p, energy fraction z, and of the virtual photon variables ν, Q and x. Semi-inclusive differential D production cross-sections are compared with theoretical predictions for D production via photon-gluon fusion into open charm. The total observed production cross-section for D mesons with laboratory energies between 22 and 86 GeV is (1.9±0.4) nb. Significant cross-section asymmetries are observed between D and D production for ν<40 GeV and z>0.6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Baseline monitoring at the proposed enhanced gas recovery site in Altmark (Germany) was carried out in combination with theoretical and laboratory investigations to describe and predict the principles of expected stable carbon isotope and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) trends during CO injection in reservoirs. This provides fundamental data for site-specific characterisation for monitoring purposes. Baseline δC values at the Altmark site ranged between −1.8 and −11.5 ‰ and DIC values were about 2 mmol L. These baseline values form the basis for a theoretical study on the influences of the ambient reservoir conditions on the state of geochemical and isotope equilibrium of the reservoir fluids. Transferring this theoretical study to the Altmark site enables predictions on geochemical trends during potential injection. Assuming that CO would be injected at the Altmark site to pCO = 100 bar and with a δC of −30 ‰, at isotopic and geochemical equilibrium, δC values would approach this end-member, and DIC concentrations of 1,000 mmol L would be expected. Laboratory experiments were conducted at low pCO levels (4-35 bars) to mimic the approach of a CO plume at a monitoring well. These results support field investigations from other sites: that δC is a sensitive tool for monitoring CO migration in the subsurface and simultaneously allows quantification of geochemical trapping of CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by progressive motor and non-motor symptoms, leading to distinct diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in all stages of the disease. This study investigated a mobile biosensor-based gait analysis system for patients in early and intermediate stages of PD compared to controls. Subjects wearing a motion sensor-equipped shoe performed a standardized gait exercise. Accelerometer- and gyroscope-based signals were analysed using a complex set of pattern recognition algorithms. The analysis was able (1) to distinguish between PD patients and controls, (2) to identify patients at an early stage of the disease and (3) to distinguish between early and intermediate stage patients. Thus, using this mobile biosensor-based analysis system we were able to obtain objective classifications of gait characteristics in PD. Future studies will show that mobile biosensor-based movement detection technology will support identification of early PD stages and allow objective characterization of motor fluctuations in advanced stages of the disease. This will provide an important and supportive tool for patients, caregivers and therapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac damage after an accident mostly occurs in connection with penetrating or blunt chest trauma and is often decisive for the prognosis of a patient. It is known that an emotional trauma can also lead to acute cardiac disease, the so-called stress-induced cardiomyopathy, however this condition is ill-defined. We present two cases with symptoms of an acute myocardial infarction occurring directly after an emotional trauma at work or while travelling to work. Diagnostic procedures defined the cardiac disease as takosubo cardiomyopathy without coronary occlusion but with a typical dysfunction of the left ventricle. Legal and assessment aspects concerning the accident insurance are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Autophagy, an evolutionarily conserved lysosome-mediated degradation, promotes cell survival under starvation and is controlled by insulin/target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling. In Drosophila, nutrient depletion induces autophagy in the fat body. Interestingly, nutrient availability and insulin/TOR signaling also influence the size and structure of Drosophila ovaries, however, the role of nutrient signaling and autophagy during this process remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that starvation induces autophagy in germline cells (GCs) and in follicle cells (FCs) in Drosophila ovaries. This process is mediated by the ATG machinery and involves the upregulation of Atg genes. We further demonstrate that insulin/TOR signaling controls autophagy in FCs and GCs. The analysis of chimeric females reveals that autophagy in FCs, but not in GCs, is required for egg development. Strikingly, when animals lack Atg gene function in both cell types, ovaries develop normally, suggesting that the incompatibility between autophagy-competent GCs and autophagy-deficient FCs leads to defective egg development. As egg morphogenesis depends on a tightly linked signaling between FCs and GCs, we propose a model in which autophagy is required for the communication between these two cell types. Our data establish an important function for autophagy during oogenesis and contributes to the understanding of the role of autophagy in animal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological distress is common in patients with chronic heart failure. The impact of different psychological variables on prognosis has been shown but the comparative effects of these variables remain unclear. This study examines the impact of depression, anxiety, vital exhaustion, Type D personality, and social support on prognosis in chronic heart failure patients. One hundred eleven patients (mean age 57 ± 14 years) having participated in an exercise based ambulatory cardiac rehabilitation program were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Psychological baseline data were assessed at program entry. Mortality, readmission, and health-related quality of life were assessed at follow up (mean 2.8 ± 1.1 years). After controlling for disease severity none of the psychological variables were associated with mortality, though severe anxiety predicted readmission [HR = 3.21 (95% CI, 1.04-9.93; P = .042)]. Health-related quality of life was independently explained by vital exhaustion, anxiety and either body mass index (physical dimension) or sex (emotional dimension). As psychological variables have a strong impact on health-related quality of life they should be routinely assessed in chronic heart failure patients` treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

zimuthal asymmetries in semi-inclusive production of positive ( h) and negative hadrons ( h) have been measured by scattering 160 GeV muons off longitudinally polarised deuterons at CERN. The asymmetries were decomposed in several terms according to their expected modulation in the azimuthal angle φ of the outgoing hadron. Each term receives contributions from one or several spin and transverse-momentum-dependent parton distribution and fragmentation functions. The amplitudes of all φ-modulation terms of the hadron asymmetries integrated over the kinematic variables are found to be consistent with zero within statistical errors, while the constant terms are nonzero and equal for h and h within the statistical errors. The dependencies of the φ-modulated terms versus the Bjorken momentum fraction x, the hadron fractional momentum z, and the hadron transverse momentum $p_{h}^{T}$ were studied. The x dependence of the constant terms for both positive and negative hadrons is in agreement with the longitudinal double-spin hadron asymmetries, measured in semi-inclusive deep-inelastic scattering. The x dependence of the sin φ-modulation term is less pronounced than that in the corresponding HERMES data. All other dependencies of the φ-modulation amplitudes are consistent with zero within the statistical errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AquaTerra is one of the first environmental projects within the 6th Framework program by the European Commission. It began in June 2004 with a multidisciplinary team of 45 partner organizations from 13 EU countries, Switzerland, Serbia, Romania and Montenegro. Results from sampling and modeling in 4 large river basins (Ebro, Danube, Elbe and Meuse) and one catchment of the Brévilles Spring in France led to new evaluations of diffuse and hotspot input of persistent organic and metal pollutants including dynamics of pesticides and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as metal turnover and accumulation. While degradation of selected organic compounds could be demonstrated under controlled conditions in the laboratory, turnover of most persistent pollutants in the field seems to range from decades to centuries. First investigations of long-term cumulative and degradation effects, particularly in the context of climate change, have shown that it is also necessary to consider the predictions of more than one climate model when trying to assess future impacts. This is largely controlled by uncertainties in climate model responses. It is becoming evident, however, that changes to the climate will have important impacts on the diffusion and degradation of pollutants in space and time that are just at the start of their exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empiric treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) should be focused on the suspected pathogens. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin vs ceftriaxone in patients with HAP without risk of infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria. We performed a prospective, randomized, non-blind, multicentric and multinational study to compare the efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin 400 mg IV once daily followed by oral moxifloxacin 400 mg once daily to ceftriaxone 2 g IV once daily followed by oral cefuroxime axetil 500 mg twice daily to treat mild-to-moderate HAP in adult patients requiring initial parenteral therapy. The primary efficacy variable was clinical response 7–10 days after the end of a 7–14-day treatment period, secondary endpoints included clinical and bacteriologic response at different intervals for up to 31 days after treatment. The trial was terminated prematurely due to slow patient recruitment. A total of 161 subjects (87 men, 74 women) between 18 and 95 years of age were enrolled, 120 of whom were eligible for per protocol efficacy analyses (60 each in the moxifloxacin and the comparator groups). Clinical success rates were 87% for moxifloxacin and 83% for the comparator [95% CI (–9.77 to 15.96%)]. The results for secondary endpoints were comparable between groups. Both treatments were safe and well tolerated. Moxifloxacin IV/oral can be considered as a possible alternative for the antibiotic treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate nosocomial pneumonia without risk factors for highly resistant microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The longitudinal double spin asymmetry A1 ρ for exclusive leptoproduction of ρ0 mesons, μ+N→μ+N+ρ, is studied using the COMPASS 2002 and 2003 data. The measured reaction is incoherent exclusive ρ0 production on polarised deuterons. The Q2 and x dependence of A1 ρ is presented in a wide kinematical range, 3×10-32< 7 (GeV/ c)2 and 5×10-51 ρ at small Q2 (Q2< 0.1 (GeV/ c)2) and small x (x<3×10-3). The asymmetry is in general compatible with zero in the whole kinematical range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their natural inhibitors, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), regulate important biological processes including the homeostasis of the extracellular matrix, proteolysis of cell surface proteins, proteinase zymogen activation, angiogenesis and inflammation. Studies have shown that their balance is altered in retinal microvascular tissues in diabetes. Since LDLs modified by oxidation/glycation are implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular complications, we examined the effects of modified LDL on the gene expression and protein production of MMPs and TIMPs in retinal pericytes. Quiescent human retinal pericytes were exposed to native LDL (N-LDL), glycated LDL (G-LDL) and heavily oxidised and glycated LDL (HOG-LDL) for 24 h. We studied the expression of the genes encoding MMPs and TIMPs mRNAs by analysis of microarray data and quantitative PCR, and protein levels by immunoblotting and ELISA. Microarray analysis showed that MMP1, MMP2, MMP11, MMP14 and MMP25 and TIMP1, TIMP2, TIMP3 and TIMP4 were expressed in pericytes. Of these, only TIMP3 mRNA showed altered regulation, being expressed at significantly lower levels in response to HOG– vs N-LDL. Quantitative PCR and immunoblotting of cell/matrix proteins confirmed the reduction in TIMP3 mRNA and protein in response to HOG-LDL. In contrast to cellular TIMP3 protein, analysis of secreted TIMP1, TIMP2, MMP1 and collagenase activity indicated no changes in their production in response to modified LDL. Combined treatment with N– and HOG-LDL restored TIMP3 mRNA expression to a level comparable with that after N-LDL alone. Among the genes encoding for MMPs and TIMPs expressed in retinal pericytes, TIMP3 is uniquely regulated by HOG-LDL. Reduced TIMP3 expression might contribute to microvascular abnormalities in diabetic retinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The ageing population is expected to increase the burden of osteoporosis on the health care system. Secondary causes of osteoporosis are found in a proportion of patients. There is much controversy regarding the best work-up for patients who have been diagnosed as having osteoporosis based on bone mineral density. It is difficult to decide where interventions should be targeted both from a patient’s perspective and for cost effectiveness. We evaluated the utility of a standard panel (full blood count, plasma viscosity, plasma protein, electrophoresis, urine Bence Jones protein, thyroid function test, bone profile, fasting lipids and liver function test) of biochemical investigations in 327 consecutive patients (287 females, 40 males) referred to the new patient osteoporosis clinic from April 1999 to March 2000. Patients were characterised after measurement of spinal/femoral neck bone mineral density after a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. There were 88 patients with osteoporosis, 91 with osteopenia, 130 had normal bone mineral density and 20 who did not have a bone scan. No case of multiple myeloma was found in this cohort of patients. There was no difference in the mean plasma viscosity of patients with and without osteoporosis ( P=0.182). There was no significant difference in the abnormal urine calcium/creatinine (Ca/Cr ratio) in patients with osteoporosis and those without osteoporosis ( P=0.316). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of hypothyroidism ( P=0.213) or thyrotoxicosis ( P=0.138) in patients with and without osteoporosis. There was no strong correlation between cholesterol concentrations and osteoporosis ( r=0.069). We found no utility in performing a myeloma screen. A small proportion of patients had abnormalities of calcium homeostasis or thyroid disease. We recommend that a screening biochemical evaluation should be restricted to calcium/bone profile and thyroid function tests in patients with a presumptive diagnosis of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The engineering of electron wave functions in reduced dimensions has allowed researchers to explore and visualize fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics and has also led to new ideas for advanced materials and devices. The scanning tunnelling microscope, in particular, has been used to create two-dimensional structures such as quantum corrals by moving individual atoms on metal surfaces and then probing the quasi two-dimensional surface state electron gases confined therein. However, this serial approach is time-consuming and not suited to producing ensembles of nanostructures for the control of electrons. Here we introduce a novel bottom-up method for the fabrication of nanoscale confinement structures on the Ag(111) surface. Scanning tunnelling spectroscopy data show that self-assembled molecular gratings act as one-dimensional resonators, and allow us to tune the characteristics of quantum-well states. We also demonstrate zero-dimensional confinement in quantum corrals down to 2 × 5 nm in size by positioning single Fe atoms, which act as additional electron reflectors, in the molecular gratings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:Case report describing the management of repeated perioperative bleeding probably due to Protein-Z-deficiency in a post-traumatic paraplegic patient.Objectives:To describe the difficulty in diagnosing this rare form of hypocoagulability and the monitoring and substitution concept during three elective surgical interventions.Setting:Spinal Cord Injury Center, Bergmannstrost, Halle, Germany.Case report:A 19-year-old male suffering from a post-traumatic paraplegia sub Th8 (ASIA-A) since childhood had experienced two life-threatening intraoperative bleeding incidents before finally Protein-Z-deficiency as the underlying coagulation disorder was diagnosed. After substitution of 2000 IE PPSB (Beriplex P/N) a repeatedly postponed implantation of a sphincter-externus (Brindley-) stimulator could be performed without bleeding complications, and this was also true for two additional urological interventions 1 year later. Protein-Z levels were monitored before, during and after the operations. The preoperative application of between 1000 and 2000 IE PPSB was safe and sufficient to raise the patients' plasma Protein-Z level to almost normal and so prevent excessive intraoperative blood loss.Conclusion:In case of repeated bleeding tendency of unknown origin it is mandatory to look for rare causes of hypocoagulability such as Protein-Z-deficiency. We developed a substitution concept using a plasma concentrate with guaranteed Protein-Z amount (PPSB) allowing the safe performance of elective surgical interventions.Spinal Cord (2006) 44, 636–639. doi:10.1038/sj.sc.3101897; published online 3 January 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of sequential intravenous (IV)/oral therapy with moxifloxacin in pneumonia under general hospital treatment conditions. Patients and methods: Patients with pneumonia were documented in this non-interventional multicentre study. The patients were treated with IV moxifloxacin or moxifloxacin sequential therapy (IV and oral) in hospitals throughout Germany. Exclusion criteria were limited to the contraindications mentioned in the summary of product characteristics. The participating hospital-based physicians documented the patients’ demography, anamnesis, antibiotic pretreatment, concomitant diseases and medications. Moxifloxacin therapy and symptom status were recorded daily up to the ninth day and on the last day of treatment. The physicians assessed the efficacy and tolerability of IV moxifloxacin therapy and reported all adverse events observed within the treatment period. Results: The 1749 documented patients had a mean age of 66.2 (SD 15.5) years; 56.4% were males and 43.5% females. The majority (99.3%) were treated with moxifloxacin 400mg once daily. On average, moxifloxacin was given for 7.6 days (SD 3.2). In cases of sequential therapy (78.9% of patients), IV moxifloxacin was switched to oral moxifloxacin after a mean of 4.1 days (SD 1.8). Moxifloxacin produced a significant clinical improvement in 58.2% of patients by day 3 of therapy, in 84.2% by day 5 and in 89.4% by day 7. Recovery occurred in 27.0% of patients by day 5, in 54.0% by day 7 and in 87.0% by day 14. It took a mean of 3.4 days (SD 1.9) until improvement and 7.2 days (SD 3.0) until cure. Overall efficacy of IV moxifloxacin therapy was rated by the physicians as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ in 82.9% of patients. Tolerability was rated in 94.3% of patients as ‘very good’ or ‘good’. Adverse events were recorded for 92 (5.3%) patients, but events were considered by the attending physician to be related to moxifloxacin therapy for only 45 patients (2.6%). Conclusions: IV moxifloxacin shows high efficacy in the treatment of pneumonia under routine clinical treatment conditions. IV moxifloxacin relieves pneumonia-associated symptoms rapidly and allows an early switch to oral administration. Because of its high efficacy and very good safety and tolerability profile, moxifloxacin delivers excellent benefits as first-line therapy for pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction ?p?K0S+ was measured in the photon energy range from threshold up to 2.6 GeV with the SAPHIR detector at the electron stretcher facility, ELSA, in Bonn. Results are presented on the reaction cross-section and the polarization of the S+ as a function of the kaon production angle in the centre-of-mass system, cosTc.m.K, and the photon energy. The cross-section is lower and varies less with photon energy and kaon production angle than that of ?p?K+S0. The S+ is polarized predominantly at cosTc.m.K ˜ 0. The data presented here are more precise than previous ones obtained with SAPHIR and extend the photon energy range to higher values. They are compared to isobar model calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction ?p?K0S+ was measured in the photon energy range from threshold up to 2.6 GeV with the SAPHIR detector at the electron stretcher facility, ELSA, in Bonn. Results are presented on the reaction cross-section and the polarization of the S+ as a function of the kaon production angle in the centre-of-mass system, cosTc.m.K, and the photon energy. The cross-section is lower and varies less with photon energy and kaon production angle than that of ?p?K+S0. The S+ is polarized predominantly at cosTc.m.K ˜ 0. The data presented here are more precise than previous ones obtained with SAPHIR and extend the photon energy range to higher values. They are compared to isobar model calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoproduction of ?0-mesons and ?-baryons at photon energies up to 2.6 GeV has been studied with the SAPHIR detector at the electron stretcher ELSA. Total and differential cross-sections were obtained. The decay angular distributions of ?0-mesons show thats-channel helicity conservation, which is valid at high photon energies, is broken near threshold. The energy dependencies of the decay angular distributions in the helicity system as well as in the Gottfried-Jackson system hint at smalls- oru-channel resonance contributions. For the reactions ?p? ?{++}p- and ?p? ?0p+ new data on cross-sections are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactions γp ↠K+ A and γp ↠K+ E0 were measured in the energy range from threshold up to a photon energy of 2.6 GeV. The data were taken with the SAPFHR detector at the electron stretcher facility, ELSA. Results on cross-sections and hyperon polarizations are presented as a function of the kaon production angle and the photon energy. The total cross-section for A production rises steeply with energy close to threshold, whereas the E0 cross-section rises slowly to a maximum at about Eγ = 1.45 GeV. Cross-sections together with their angular decompositions into Legendre polynomials suggest contributions from resonance production for both reactions. In general, the induced polarization of A has negative values in the kaon forward direction and positive values in the backward direction. The magnitude varies with energy. The polarization of E0 follows a similar angular and energy dependence as that of A, but with opposite sign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoproduction of the vector meson w has been studied between threshold and W =2.4 GeV with the SAPFIIR detector at the Bonn electron stretcher ring ELSA. Besides, the total cross- sections angular distributions in the CMS and decay angular distributions in the helicity and Gottfried- Jackson systems have been measured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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: Photoproduction of Φ-vector-mesons has been studied from reaction threshold up to W = 2.4 GeV with the SAPHIR spectrometer at the Bonn electron stretcher ring ELSA. Total cross-sections, differential cross-sections and decay angular distributions were measured. We find evidence for strong non-diffractive contributions to Φ photoproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A post-marketing surveillance (PMS) study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of moxifloxacin 400mg once daily in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (AECB) treated by pulmonologists and pulmonary specialists in community-based practice settings. Patient and methods: 2338 patients with AECB (54% male; 46% female) were included in the analysis. PMS studies are prospective, open, uncontrolled and observational in design. All therapeutic decisions were made by the attending physician, based on their clinical practice and experience. This approach was adopted in order to provide valuable information on the safety and efficacy of moxifloxacin therapy in routine clinical practice. Results: The main symptoms of AECB (cough, expectoration, dyspnoea, chest pain and fever) were either resolved or improved in 80-97% of patients. Most patients (65%) improved within 3 days of starting moxifloxacin therapy and 91.6% by day 5. Mean time to improvement was 3.2 æ 1.6 days. Overall, 96.1% of patients were judged by their physician to be either cured or improved following moxifloxacin therapy. Approximately 57% of patients had previously been treated with an antibiotic for their last episode of AECB. The antibiotics used were mostly macrolides (18.2% of patients), beta-lactams (16.9%), tetracycline/ doxycycline (9.9%) and quinolones (9.5%). The tolerability of moxifloxacin therapy was rated as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ in 95.4% of patients. Adverse events were reported in only 1.5% of patients. Conclusion: In conclusion, moxifloxacin 400mg once daily was effective and well tolerated in this group of patients with AECB, combined with a rapid onset of action and a similarly high clinical success rate to that observed in controlled comparative clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Der Nervenarzt is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

OBJECTIVE: To investigate physiological differences which could influence the balance between energy expenditure and energy intake, between habitual high-fat (HF) and low-fat (LF) consumers and the potential for weight gain. SUBJECTS: Ten HF and nine LF consumers, all young, lean males (% energy from fat 45.4 and 31.8, respectively). MEASUREMENTS: Habitual dietary variables (from the food frequency questionnaire, FFQ), body mass index (BMI), % body fat (% BF, measured by impedance), fasting concentrations of plasma leptin, glucose and triglycerides. RESULTS: HF and LF subjects (selected for their fat intake) did not differ significantly in BMI or % BF. HF subjects had significantly higher concentrations of plasma leptin and lower concentrations of plasma glucose than LF subjects. In all subjects, concentrations of fasting plasma leptin correlated significantly with BMI, % BF and fat mass; difference in leptin between groups remained significant when BMI and % BF were used as covariants. Leptin significantly correlated with dietary variables; particularly dietary fat (% energy and g) and inversely with dietary carbohydrate (% energy), but showed no correlation with dietary protein or total energy intake. CONCLUSION: Significant differences in concentrations of fasting plasma leptin have been observed between lean male HF and LF consumers. These findings suggest that the difference in leptin concentrations could be associated with a metabolic adaptation which could help to offset the weight inducing properties of high fat (high energy) diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Der Schmerz is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Sustained cough is a frequent complaint in methotrexate (MTX) treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and can be a symptom of incipient MTX-induced pneumonitis. This study was performed to characterize MTX-associated cough clinically and to clarify by which means this condition can be distinguished from incipient MTX pneumonitis. Three patients with MTX-induced pneumonitis and 10 patients with sustained cough unassociated with pneumonitis were examined clinically, by pulmonary function testing, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). In MTX pneumonitis, cough was associated with progressive dyspnoea, constitutional symptoms, impaired pulmonary function, and interstitial infiltration of variable degree by chest X-ray. BAL cytology invariably showed lymphocytic alveolitis while transbronchial biopsy revealed active interstitial inflammation in only one patient. Ten patients had sustained, nonprogressive cough in the absence of constitutional symptoms, progressive dyspnoea and impaired pulmonary function. Neither X-ray nor BAL nor transbronchial biopsy revealed any evidence of interstitial lung disease. In the majority of these patients, cough abated with symptomatic treatment with or without temporary discontinuation of MTX. It is concluded that MTX-associated cough can be a reflection of isolated airway disease. Clinically, absence of constitutional symptoms, impaired pulmonary function, and interstitial infiltration on X-ray distinguished this condition from incipient MTX pneumonitis. Cough without pulmonary parenchymal involvement appears to result from an irritant effect of MTX on the airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal cystic disease comprises a mixed group of heritable, developmental, and acquired disorders. Because of their diverse etiology, histology, and clinical presentation, no single scheme of classification has gained acceptance. Conditions include autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, acquired renal cystic disease, medullary sponge kidney, autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, multicystic dysplastic kidney, medullary cystic disease, tuberous sclerosis, cysts of the renal sinus, and von Hippel-Lindau's disease. An awareness of the pathology of each cystic disease is helpful in the understanding of the corresponding radiological images. Imaging techniques used in evaluating renal cystic disease include intravenous urography, sonography, CT, MRI, nuclear medicine, and renal angiography. Many types of cystic disease show similar imaging features. Meticulous attention to subtle radiological findings is therefore essential for reaching a correct diagnosis. Imaging features requiring analysis include whether the cysts are unilateral or bilateral, renal size and functional status, cyst distribution in the kidneys, and the presence of hemorrhagic and calcified renal cysts, solid renal masses, renal sinus cysts, and cysts in adjacent organs. Radiological findings should be carefully correlated with clinical features such as patient age, family history, symptoms, physical findings, and renal functional status before a diagnosis is attempted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In studying the process of mitochondrial transcription, mutants that show altered gene expression as evidenced from transcript pattern differences are a valuable resource. However, such mutants are difficult to find since changes in mitochondrial gene expression will most likely be lethal. Several laboratories have been investigating cytoplasmic male-sterile mutants in maize and have reported changes in transcription patterns due to nuclear background influences on the complex chimeric gene region TURF-2H3 in T-cms. There have been no reports of altered transcription patterns for N cytoplasm that can be attributed to nuclear background differences. Through a Northern hybridization analysis of ORF25 transcription in a number of N lines, we reported invariant expression of this region. Subsequently, we have discovered a line B37N, which shows the presence of a single ORF25-specific transcript of 3,400 nucleotides, in contrast to the transcript sizes of 3,400, 2,300 and 1,600 displayed by most of the cytoplasms we have examined. Experiments presented in this communication demonstrate that the differences in the B37N, ORF25 transcript pattern map to the 5′ flanking sequences of the reading frame. Using restriction enzyme mapping and Southern hybridization analysis, no detectable differences were found in the transcription unit structure for this reading frame in B37N and B73N, which shows the standard, three-transcript pattern. Analysis of nuclear background influences indicates that the transcript patterns for this open reading frame are dependent on nuclear background. These data are presented in part 2 of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Macrpglobulin (A2M) is a major human plasma protease inhibitor capable of inhibiting most endopeptidases tested so far. In the case of the other major plasma protease inhibitor, α-antitrypsin, genetically determined deficiency states are known to increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 20- to 30-fold in affected individuals. No defects of the A2M gene have been described as yet, but A2M may play a role in the regulation of protease activity in the lung, especially with respect to those proteases not inhibited by α-antitrypsin. We report here the molecular genetic detection of an alteration of the A2M gene in a patient with serum A2M deficiency and chronic lung disease since childhood. The alteration involves restriction sites detected with 10 different enzymes and is most probably caused by a major deletion or rearrangement of the gene. Nine of the restriction enzymes used detected no polymorphisms in 40 healthy control subjects and 39 COPD patients. The polymorphism detected in this patient with the enzyme PvuII was different from another described previously, and was found in this patient only. The patient is heterozygous for an alteration in the A2M gene; this may be responsible for his serum A2M deficiency and may be relevant to the early onset of pulmonary disease in his case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]