bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Very Old Heart Failure Patients Enrolled in a Trial of Exercise Training
Authors: Witham Miles D. , Argo Ishbel S. , Johnston Derek W. , Struthers Allan D. , McMurdo Marion E. T.
Published: July 2007

Little is known about how physical and psychological status changes with time in older heart failure patients. The authors followed up a cohort of 82 patients (mean age, 80.5 years) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of exercise training in heart failure. Six‐minute walk test, accelerometry, functional status, quality of life, anxiety, and depression were measured at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and a mean of 19 months post‐enrollment. There were no significant differences between the exercise and control groups at long‐term follow‐up. Six‐minute walk distance declined by only 0.2 m/month in those attending final follow‐up (vs 4.6 m/month in nonattenders; P=.03). Similar results were seen for other outcomes. Only a small proportion of the variance in change of any of the outcomes was explained by differences in baseline variables.
The iteration method for downward continuation of a potential field from a horizontal plane
Authors: Xu Shi‐zhe , Yang Jinyu , Yang Changfu , Xiao Pengfei , Chen Shengchang , Guo Zhihong
Published: July 2007

This paper introduces an iteration method for the downward continuation of potential‐field data from a horizontal plane, and compares it with the conventional frequency‐domain method (Fourier transform) using 2D and 3D model tests. The paper evaluates the two methods in terms of the results, i.e. downward‐continuation distance and stability. The iteration method proves to be more stable and able to downward continue the potential for a greater distance than the Fourier transform method.
Developing cultural sensitivity: nursing students’ experiences of a study abroad programme
Authors: Ruddock Heidi C. , Turner De Sales
Published: July 2007

Title.  Developing cultural sensitivity: nursing students’ experiences of a study abroad programme

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore whether having an international learning experience as part of a nursing education programme promoted cultural sensitivity in nursing students.

Background.  Many countries are becoming culturally diverse, but healthcare systems and nursing education often remain mono‐cultural and focused on the norms and needs of the majority culture. To meet the needs of all members of multicultural societies, nurses need to develop cultural sensitivity and incorporate this into caregiving.

Method.  A Gadamerian hermeneutic phenomenological approach was adopted. Data were collected in 2004 by using in‐depth conversational interviews and analysed using the Turner method.

Findings.  Developing cultural sensitivity involves a complex interplay between becoming comfortable with the experience of making a transition from one culture to another, making adjustments to cultural differences, and growing personally. Central to this process was the students’ experience of studying in an unfamiliar environment, experiencing stress and varying degrees of culture shock, and making a decision to take on the ways of the host culture. These actions led to an understanding that being sensitive to another culture required being open to its dynamics, acknowledging social and political structures, and incorporating other people's beliefs about health and illness.

Conclusion.  The findings suggest that study abroad is a useful strategy for bridging the theory–practice divide. However, further research is needed with larger and more diverse students to test the generalizability of the findings. Longitudinal research is also needed to assess the impact of study abroad programmes on the deliver of culturally sensitive care.
Assessing psychometric properties of scales: a case study
Authors: Marshall Andrea P. , Fisher Murray J. , Brammer Jillian , Eustace Paula , Grech Carol , Jones Bronwyn , Kelly Michelle
Published: July 2007

Title.  Assessing psychometric properties of scales: a case study

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to examine the construct validity of The Nursing Students’ Attitudes and Awareness of Research and Development within Nursing Scale.

Background.  The validity of instruments is critical in ensuring that data collected are sound and that the data measures what it purports to measure. When a new instrument is used in a different population or when it has been modified, it is useful to re‐examine the construct validity of the instrument.

Method.  A survey design was used in September 2004 with a sample of 615 undergraduate nursing students to test the factor structure of The Nursing Students’ Attitudes and Awareness of Research and Development within Nursing Scale and to estimate its similarity to the factor structure reported for the original scale developed and tested in a group of Registered Nurses.

Results.  Using Maximum Likelihood Factor Analysis and then Principal Axis Factoring, we were unable to obtain a similar factor structure to that originally identified for the scale. Our data resulted in a two‐factor structure. One factor consisted of 16 items that reflected a positive attitude to nursing research and the other consisted of 14 items that reflected a negative attitude to nursing research.

Conclusion.  The substantially different factor structure identified suggests that this scale requires further refinement and testing. This case study highlights the importance of a systematic and comprehensive approach to determining construct validity of scales, thus enabling researchers to determine their suitability as data collection instruments.
Living with leg ulceration: a synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Briggs Michelle , Flemming Kate
Published: July 2007

Title.  Living with leg ulceration: a synthesis of qualitative research

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to identify and synthesize all published qualitative research studies exploring patients’ experiences of living with a leg ulcer.

Background.  Leg ulceration is a common chronic condition with over 40% of patients having open ulceration for over a year. Leg ulceration can have a significant and detrimental effect on a persons’ life.

Data sources.  Electronic searches of Ovid MEDLINE (R) (1966–2005), CINAHL (1982–2005), EMBASE (1980–2005), British Nursing Index (1985–2005), ASSIA, Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) and PsychINFO (1985–2005) were carried out in June 2005.

Review methods.  Studies were included if: they described experience of living with a leg ulcer, e.g. phenomenological studies, grounded theory, descriptive, focus groups or interview studies; included adults with chronic leg ulceration (venous, mixed or arterial); published in English. Analysis was undertaken using the Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument software for synthesis of qualitative research.

Results.  Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. There were eight phenomenological studies, two using grounded theory and two ‘descriptive studies’. The location of the research was United Kingdom (7), United States of America (2), Sweden (1), Australia (1). Five common themes related to the experience of living with leg ulceration were identified: Physical effects of leg ulceration; Describing the leg ulcer journey; Patient–professional relationships; Cost of a leg ulcer; Psychological impact.

Conclusion.  Leg ulceration should be viewed as a chronic, debilitating condition. The clinical focus of care should be symptom management through the ‘leg ulcer journey’.
Utilisation of prenatal services and birth outcomes: a community‐based study in Israel
Authors: Shoham‐Vardi Ilana , Levy Esther , Belmaker Iiana , Mazor Moshe , Goldstein David
Published: July 2007

Summary

The purpose of this paper was to assess several measures of utilisation of prenatal care as predictors of birth outcome in a community where the availability and quality of services were equal for all pregnant women. A case‐control study was conducted in a small community in Israel, comparing 189 women whose pregnancy resulted in an unfavourable outcome (perinatal mortality, preterm birth and low birthweight at term) with 384 women, matched by birth order, who had a live, full‐term infant weighing 2500 g or more. In a multivariable analysis, adjusting for pregnancy complications, maternal age, parity and socio‐economic disadvantage, gestational age at initiation of prenatal care was not an independent predictor of unfavourable outcome; neither was lower than the recommended number of visits for the period under care. However, a higher than expected number of visits was associated with unfavourable outcome [odds ratio (OR)=6.10, 95% CI 2.09–17.78], as was non‐compliance with medical recommendations [OR=2.02, 95% CI 1.24–3.29. The context of prenatal care delivery, as well as the process of care and compliance with recommendations, should be assessed in order to determine the impact of prenatal care on birth outcomes.
The organisation of a national survey for evaluating child psychomotor development in Argentina
Authors: Lejarraga Horacio , Krupitzky Sara , Gimenez Eduardo , Diament Nora , Kelmansky Diana , Tibaldi Fabián , Cameron Noel
Published: July 2007

A total of 211 selected paediatricians were invited to participate in a national survey designed to evaluate the age of attainment of developmental milestones in children aged 0–5 years. Following a pilot study and a cascade training design, 61.1% of the paediatricians successfully completed the data collection on 139 developmental items. In the pilot study, there were more missing (not performed) items in children over one year of age, thus confirming the impression that paediatricians are more familiar with evaluating development in infants. However, in the age range 1–5 years, there were significantly fewer missing items in the gross motor area than in the other areas. Following a training programme and data editing and cleaning, a final sample of 3573 healthy, normal children was obtained. The impact of the training process was significant, in the sense that 3.5% of the items in children older than one year were not performed by the paediatricians before training, but this percentage was reduced to 1.9% after training (P < 0.01). The sample formed 0.11% of the national population less than 6 years of age and included a sex ratio of 1.01 compared with a national ratio of 1.02. There were no significant differences in the geographical distribution of the sample in comparison with that of the national population. The social composition, assessed by maternal education level, was biased towards a better education level than the national population. Mean Z‐scores for height and weight were not significantly different from zero, when calculated on the basis of the national growth standards. In addition to successfully obtaining a representative sample for the analysis of the age of attainment of developmental milestones in Argentinian children, the survey also accomplished an educational objective in the training of paediatricians in developmental paediatrics.
Viral infection enables phloem loading of GFP and long‐distance trafficking of the protein
Authors: Peleg Gadi , Malter Dikla , Wolf Shmuel
Published: July 2007

It is generally accepted that viral systemic infection follows the source‐to‐sink symplastic pathway of sugar translocation. In plants that are classified as apoplastic loaders, the boundary between the companion cell–sieve element (CC–SE) complex and neighboring cells is symplastically restricted, and the potential passage of macromolecules between the two domains has yet to be explored. Transgenic tobacco plants expressing green fluorescence protein (GFP) and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)‐encoded proteins fused to GFP under the control of the fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase) promoter were produced in order to localize the encoded proteins in mesophyll and bundle sheath cells and to explore the influence of viral infection on the functioning of plasmodesmata interconnecting the two domains. GFP produced outside the vascular tissue could overcome the symplastic barrier between the CC–SE complex and the surrounding cells to enter the vasculature in CMV‐infected plants. Grafting of control (non‐transgenic) tobacco scions to CMV‐infected FBPase‐GFP‐expressing root stocks confirmed that GFP could move long distances in the phloem. No movement of the gfp mRNA was noticeable in this set of experiments. The ability of GFP to enter the vasculature and move long distances was also evident upon infection of the grafting plants with other viruses. These results provide experimental evidence for alteration of the functioning of plasmodesmata interconnecting the CC–SE complex and neighboring cells by viral infection to enable non‐selective trafficking of macromolecules from the mesophyll into the sieve tube.
Identification of genes expressed in the Arabidopsis female gametophyte
Authors: Steffen Joshua G. , Kang Il‐Ho , Macfarlane Jane , Drews Gary N.
Published: July 2007

The angiosperm female gametophyte typically consists of one egg cell, two synergid cells, one central cell, and three antipodal cells. Each of these four cell types has unique structural features and performs unique functions that are essential for the reproductive process. The gene regulatory networks conferring these four phenotypic states are largely uncharacterized. As a first step towards dissecting the gene regulatory networks of the female gametophyte, we have identified a large collection of genes expressed in specific cells of the Arabidopsis thaliana female gametophyte. We identified these genes using a differential expression screen based on reduced expression in determinant infertile1 (dif1) ovules, which lack female gametophytes. We hybridized ovule RNA probes with Affymetrix ATH1 genome arrays and validated the identified genes using real‐time RT‐PCR. These assays identified 71 genes exhibiting reduced expression in dif1 ovules. We further validated 45 of these genes using promoter::GFP fusions and 43 were expressed in the female gametophyte. In the context of the ovule, 11 genes were expressed exclusively in the antipodal cells, 11 genes were expressed exclusively or predominantly in the central cell, 17 genes were expressed exclusively or predominantly in the synergid cells, one gene was expressed exclusively in the egg cell, and three genes were expressed strongly in multiple cells of the female gametophyte. These genes provide insights into the molecular processes functioning in the female gametophyte and can be used as starting points to dissect the gene regulatory networks functioning during differentiation of the four female gametophyte cell types.
Tuning the herbivore‐induced ethylene burst: the role of transcript accumulation and ethylene perception in Nicotiana attenuata
Authors: von Dahl Caroline C. , Winz Robert A. , Halitschke Rayko , Kühnemann Frank , Gase Klaus , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: July 2007

Caterpillar‐induced ethylene emissions play an important role in plant–herbivore interactions. The ethylene burst that ensues after attack exceeds wound‐induced ethylene emissions, but the mechanisms responsible remain unknown. Adding larval oral secretions (OS) to wounds mimics this ethylene burst. We demonstrate that fatty acid–amino acid conjugates are the responsible elicitors in Manduca sexta OS, and identify genes that are important in OS‐elicited ethylene biosynthesis and perception in the larvae’s host, Nicotiana attenuata, by examining the consequences of gene silencing on OS‐elicited ethylene emissions, as quantified by photo‐acoustic spectroscopy. OS elicitation increased transcript accumulation of ACC synthase (ACS), virus‐induced gene silencing of ACS halved the OS‐elicited ethylene release, and ACC supplementation to ACS‐silenced plants restored ethylene emissions, demonstrating that ACS activity limits the rate of release. Silencing three wound‐ or OS‐elicited ACC oxidase (ACO) genes with an ACO consensus fragment abolished the OS‐elicited ethylene release. Virus‐induced gene silencing of each ACO individually revealed that only NaACO2a and NaACO3 regulate the OS‐elicited ethylene release. Transforming plants with various etr1‐1 constructs rendered them differentially ‘deaf’ to ethylene, and dramatically increased the OS‐elicited ethylene burst, largely without regulating the transcripts of biosynthetic genes. The volume of the OS‐elicited ethylene ‘scream’ was proportional to the plant’s deafness, as determined by 1‐MCP treatments. We conclude that the OS‐elicited ethylene burst is tuned by a tag‐team of transcriptional responses and ethylene perception. Ethylene signaling is shown to be essential in regulating two traits that are important in the N. attenuata–M. sexta interaction: OS‐induced nicotine levels and floral longevity.
Phaeoacremonium parasiticum subcutaneous infection in a kidney‐transplanted patient successfully treated by surgery
Authors: Farina C. , Gotti E. , Mouniée D. , Boiron P. , Goglio A.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Human infection caused by Phaeoacremonium parasiticum is increasingly being reported. However, only a few case reports show its role as a soil‐related contaminant of kidney recipients. We report here a case of a subcutaneous infection by P. parasiticum in a transplanted man. After 4 years, he reported a nonpainful nodule on his forefinger. It was surgically excised. Histological examination revealed dense fibrous connective tissue showing an extensive granulomatous reaction, including the presence of a wooden sliver, and hyaline, branched, and septate hyphae. Six months later, the patient relapsed and underwent large excision. Culture was positive for P. parasiticum. No antifungal drug was administered. Surgical excision was successful.
Fulminant hepatitis from herpes simplex virus type 2 in an immunocompetent adult
Authors: Abbo L. , Alcaide M.L. , Pano J.R. , Robinson P.G. , Campo R.E.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is regarded as a common viral pathogen that produces a wide variety of diseases. After a primary infection, which usually occurs during childhood and may or may not be clinically evident, the virus establishes a latent infection in the local sensory ganglia and can reactivate throughout the life of the individual. Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) due to HSV infection is a clinical condition well known in pediatric, immunocompromised, and pregnant patients. It is rare in immunocompetent hosts. We report the case of a 51‐year‐old man with no significant past medical history who developed FHF with disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and septic shock secondary to HSV infection. The initial diagnosis was made through a frozen section of a needle liver biopsy and the presence of HSV was confirmed in the permanent section with immunohistochemistry. HSV was grown in cell culture from liver tissue obtained through an autopsy.
Resource use and cost of treatment with voriconazole or conventional amphotericin B for invasive aspergillosis
Authors: Wingard J.R. , Herbrecht R. , Mauskopf J. , Schlamm H.T. , Marciniak A. , Roberts C.S.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Background.Voriconazole, a broad‐spectrum triazole, has demonstrated significantly improved survival compared with conventional amphotericin B (CAB) as initial therapy for invasive aspergillosis (IA).

Objective.To compare health care resource use and cost at 12 weeks following first‐line treatment with voriconazole compared with CAB for IA using resource use data collected during a clinical trial.

Methods.Days of hospitalization, intensive care, antifungal drug use, and outpatient care were collected during a large randomized, controlled trial of patients with IA receiving initial treatment with voriconazole or CAB. Unit costs based on published data sources were applied to healthcare use to estimate 12‐week costs following initiation of therapy. Resource use and costs were compared for each treatment arm overall and by survival. The sensitivity of total costs to changes in healthcare use and unit costs was examined.

Results.Total hospital days and intensive care unit (ICU) days were similar for voriconazole and CAB (total: 27.8 vs. 27.7,P=0.97 and ICU: 5.6 vs. 8.1,P=0.11). Among survivors, voriconazole was associated with similar numbers of total hospital days (29.8 vs. 32.0 days,P=0.54) to CAB, but fewer ICU days (3.9 vs. 8.2,P=0.03). For non‐survivors, those treated with voriconazole had a similar number of total hospital days (23.0 vs. 21.8,P=0.73) and ICU days (9.8 vs. 7.9,P=0.44). Patients treated with voriconazole had significantly more days alive and out of the hospital than with CAB at 12 weeks (40.3 vs. 28.4 days,P<0.001). Total costs were similar with voriconazole compared with CAB ($78,860 vs. $83,857,P=0.51). Differences in cost were not sensitive to changes in the input parameter values.

Conclusions.Using voriconazole first‐line for treatment of IA resulted in significantly fewer deaths and similar treatment costs. Hospital‐free survival was significantly greater for patients initially treated with voriconazole.
Development and evaluation of a real‐time PCR assay for detection of Pneumocystis jiroveci
Authors: Bandt D. , Monecke S.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Pneumocystis jiroveci is an important agent of pneumonia in immunocompromised hosts. Usually, this pathogen is detected by Giemsa or direct fluorescence stains of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids. Microscopic methods, however, have 2 disadvantages. P. jiroveci is not stable outside the human body, which means that slow sample transport might result in false‐negative results. Additionally, exact quantification, which is needed for therapy monitoring, is not possible. In this study, we developed a real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay for the LightCycler. Two Pneumocystis‐specific TaqMan systems, one based on the sequence of the 5.8S ribosomal gene and another one targeting the dihydrofolate reductase gene were evaluated. Additionally, the amount of human DNA in the sample was measured by a TaqMan assay based on the human albumin gene, allowing assessment of sample quality and quantification normalized on sample concentration. For clinical evaluation, 69 BAL specimens from 26 positive patients as well as 60 negative controls were tested. Both systems were able to detect all proven cases of Pneumocystis pneumonia. Differentiation of carriage, asymptomatic reactivation, and clinical infection as well as normalized quantification by calculating the ratio of Pneumocystis DNA to human DNA are discussed.
Oral topical cidofovir: novel route of drug delivery in a severely immunosuppressed patient with refractory multidrug‐resistant herpes simplex virus infection
Authors: Sims C.R. , Thompson K. , Chemaly R.F. , Shpall E.J. , Champlin R.E. , Safdar A.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: We present a case of serious treatment‐refractory acyclovir‐ and foscarnet‐resistant herpes simplex virus (HSV) type‐1 orolingual infection that responded to oral cidofovir rinses after failure of acyclovir and foscarnet therapy. The use of 3% cidofovir in a saline rinse for refractory mucosal HSV infection appears promising but needs prospective evaluation.
Expression of factor I‐resistant mutants of the human complement component C3 in heterologous systems
Authors: Fecke W. , Farries T.C. , D'Cruz L.G. , Napper C.M. , Harrison R.A.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Complement plays a major role in hyperacute rejection of xenografts. In order to overcome this, we are developing, by minimal mutagenesis, a modified C3 molecule that, like cobra venom factor (CVF), escapes normal complement regulatory processes and inhibits complement‐mediated responses by systemic depletion of C3. Unlike CVF, this protein should have little or no immunogenicity and be suitable for repeat administrations. As an initial step in this process, we have modified human C3 to make it resistant to inactivation by factor 1. The factor I resistant C3 is capable of forming an active C3 convertase. Preincubation with normal human serum abrogated subsequent complement‐mediated cytolysis by both the classical and alternative pathways, while wild‐type (wt) C3 was inactive. The modified human C3 also blocked complement activity of guinea‐pig serum. For economical and rapid production, we have developed expression of recombinant C3 wt and mutant proteins in the Baculovirus system. Large quantities are also being produced from stably transfected CHO cell lines. In addition, we have developed a fast C3 purification method by engineering a 6XHIS tag into the C3a portion of the molecule, thereby avoiding the need for subsequent separation of the tag from active C3b molecules.
The molecular mechanism of apoptosis induced by xenogeneic cytotoxicity
Authors: Fujiwara Ikuya , Nakajima Hiroo , Yamagishi Hisakaru , Matsuda Tetsuro , Mizuta Naruhiko , Oka Takahiro
Published: July 2007

Abstract: In order to clarify the role of natural killer (NK) cells in delayed xenograft rejection (DXR) of discordant xenotransplantation, we used in vitro xenogeneic combination of human NK cells and pig kidney target cells (PK13, and investigated the mechanism of xenogeneic cytotoxicity caused by human NK cells. In the presence of decomplemented human serum or human IgG, freshly isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) caused both membrane (51Cr release) and DNA (3H release) damage on PK15. In contrast, only membrane damage was detected in the presence of normal human serum. To clarify the participation of perforin/granzymes‐cell mediated cytotoxicity (P/G‐CMC), when EGTA or concanamycin B (CMB) was added to the cytotoxicity assays, both cytotoxicities were completely inhibited by these drugs in a dose‐dependent manner. In terms of the involvement of Fas/FasL‐based cytotoxicity (F‐CMC), while the cytotoxicity assays were performed in the presence of antagonistic anti‐human FasL mAb, this antibody was not able to block the cytotoxicity. From these results, it is concluded that xenogeneic cytotoxicity is due to NK cell dependent ADCC (antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity), and their effector mechanism can cause apoptosis on target cells via P/G‐CMC.
In vitro accommodation of porcine endothelial cells by low dose human anti‐pig antibody: Reduced binding of human lymphocytes by accommodated cells associated with increased nitric oxide production
Authors: Dorling A. , Deiikouras A. , Nohadani M. , Poiak J. , Lechler R. I.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:Transplanted xenografts, protected from rejection by depletion of xenoreactive natural antibodies (XNA) and complement, can sometimes survive when complement levels and titres of anti‐graft antibodies return to baseline; this phenomenon is called accommodation. We have previously reported that low concentrations of human IgG induce a change in the phenotype of immortalised porcine endothelial cells (IPEC) consistent with the development of accommodation. The cells acquired a resistance to lysis by human complement and showed a reduced expression of VCAM. In this study, we extend these findings by showing that VCAM expression falls on several IPEC clones and on primary porcine endothelial cells. Moreover, we show that these accommodated cells bind fewer human lymphocytes compared to controls, implying that leukocyte traffic through accommodated endothelium may be altered compared to that through normal endothelium. Finally we show that during the induction of accommodation, porcine endothelial cells produce greater amounts of nitric oxide than controls, due to the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). We speculate that nitric oxide may be an important mediator in accommodation.
An ELISA technique for quantitation of human xenoantibodies binding to pig cells: Application in patients with pig kidneys extracorporeally connected to the circulation
Authors: Rydberg Lennart , Breimer Michael E. , Nilsson Kurt , Svensson Lola , Samuelsson Bo E. , Romano Egidio
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT: A quantitative ELISA technique for determination of human anti‐pig xenoantibody number in serum samples has been established using pig lymphocytes and pig/rabbit erythrocytes as target cells and a pool of serum from human blood group AB donors. The number of low affinity antibodies binding to the cells was determined by quantitation following the use of aqueous washing of the cells and separation of bound and unbound antibodies with the phthalate oil method. The efficiency of different soluble Galal‐3Gal‐terminating di‐ and tri‐saccharides to inhibit antibody binding was tested and found to vary between 70–90% at a saccharide concentration of 10 mg/ml. The assay was used to evaluate the antibody changes in two patients who, after plasmapheresis treatments, had pig kidneys extracorporeally connected to their blood circulation. The number of anti‐pig IgM/IgG antibodies bound to each pig lymphocyte were reduced from 5,600/13,200 to 1,300/3,100 in patient 1 and from 1,200/6,500 to 500/2,100 in patient 2 by three consecutive daily plasmapheresis treatments. Although the lymphocytotoxic titers were reduced to very low levels, the antibody numbers still present in the blood of patient 1 caused a hyperacute rejection of the pig kidney. However, the antibody levels in patient 2 did not cause rejection of this kidney during 15 min perfusion time. A strong anti‐pig antibody response 3 weeks after the perfusion experiment was found in patient 1 as shown by 27,600/245,300 IgM/IgG molecules bound to pig lymphocytes corresponding to an increase of lymphocytotoxic titer from 8 to 512. The second patient showed a much weaker immune response with 1,400/19,800 IgM/IgG antibodies corresponding to a lymphocytotoxic titer increase from 8 to 32. The use of this quantitation technique enables more accurate investigation of antibody bindine to xenoeenic tareet cells than conventional titration techniaues.
Depletion of anti‐Galα1–3Gal antibody in baboons by specific α‐Gal immunoaffinity columns
Authors: Kozlowski Tomasz , Ierino Francesco L. , Lambrigts Denis , Foley Alicia , Andrews David , Awwad Michel , Monroy Rod , Cosimi A. Benedict , Cooper David K.C. , Sachs David H.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT: Ongoing studies at our center on facilitating transplantation of discordant xenogeneic organs are focused on tolerance induction. To abrogate hyperacute rejection, we have used adsorption methods to eliminate natural anti‐Galα1–3Gal (αGal) antibodies from the circulation of baboons. We have analyzed data concerning antibody removal in baboons that were 1) immunologically naive, 2) receiving conventional pharmacologic immunosuppressive therapy (IS), and 3) treated with a conditioning regimen for tolerance induction. We compared the efficiency of removing αGal antibody 1) by perfusion of whole blood through an αGal affinity column (CP; n=5) with 2) perfusion of plasma (separated from cellular components by apheresis) through an αGal column (CPA; n=39). Our studies demonstrate that 1) CP and CPA are equally effective in removing anti‐αGal antibody, 2) CPA is the method of choice if multiple adsorptions are required, 3) CPA in naive animals transiently affects levels of total IgG and IgM, 4) four CPAs repeated at 2–4 day intervals in association with heavy IS reduce the pool of anti‐αGal antibody and total Ig, and 5) splenectomy and/or IS delay the return of anti‐αGal antibody.
Adoptive transfer: The role of perforin in mouse cytotoxic T lymphocyte rejection of human tumor xenografts in vivo
Authors: Smyth Mark J. , Kershaw Michael H. , Darcy Phillip K. , Trapani Joseph A.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT: The popliteal lymph node cells of immunocompetent mice generated a strong in vitro cytotoxic response to footpad injection of several human tumor cell lines and the resulting mouse effector cells predominantly used a perforin‐mediated cytotoxic mechanism. A relatively minor FasL‐dependent cytotoxic response to CEM‐CCRF and Jurkat leukemias, but not colon carcinoma COLO 205 cells, was also detected in immunized perforin‐deficient mice. In vitro depletion of CD3+ CD8+ T cells, but not CD4+ T or NK1.1+ cells, completely inhibited lysis of human tumor cells, suggesting that CD3+ CD8+ T cells were effectors of perforin‐mediated xenospecific cytotoxicity. Xenospecific cytotoxic T cells from wild‐type mice were extremely efficient at rejecting tumor when adoptively transferred into scid mice bearing established COLO 205, CEM‐CCRF, or Jurkat tumor xenografts. By contrast, cytotoxic T lymphocytes of perforin‐deficient mice had no effect on the growth of established tumor xenografts. These data indicate that perforin, and hence direct cytotoxicity, plays a key role in the ability of adoptively transferred CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes to eradicate established xenografts.
High‐level co‐expression of complement regulators on vascular endothelium in transgenic mice: CD55 and CD59 provide greater protection from human complement‐mediated injury than CD59 alone
Authors: Cowan Peter J. , Shinkel Trixie A. , Aminian Atousa , Romanella Margarita , Wigley Peter L , Lonie Andrew J. , Nottle Mark B. , Pearse Martin J. , D'Apice Anthony J.F.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: High‐level endothelial expression of the human complement regulatory factor CD59 has been shown to protect transgenic mouse hearts from human complement‐mediated injury in an ex vivo perfusion model. In this study we examine whether co‐expression of CD55 provides additional protection. CD55/CD59 double‐transgenic mice were generated by co‐injection of CD55 and CD59 expression constructs driven by the human intercellular adhesion molecule 2 (ICAM‐2) promoter. A line was established from one mouse that exhibited strong expression of CD55 and CD59 on vascular endothelium in the heart and other transplantable organs. An ex vivo perfusion model was used to compare hearts from these CD55/CD59 mice with hearts from a previously established line, which expressed CD59 at a similar level to the double transgenic line. CD59 hearts displayed prolonged survival compared to wild‐type hearts during perfusion with 40% human plasma and maintained approximately 20% maximum work after 60 min. CD55/CD59 hearts were further protected, with work maintained at 35% of the maximum level after 60 min. The data demonstrate that high‐level endothelial co‐expression of CD55 and CD59 provides greater protection from human complement‐mediated injury in this model than expression of CD59 alone.
Complement activation in discordant hepatic xenotransplantation
Authors: Tector A. Joseph , Chen Xuwu , Soderland Carl , Tchervenkov Jean I.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Little is known about hyperacute rejection in hepatic xenotransplantation. Information from clinical xenoperfusions suggests that the liver may be rejected by a mechanism less vigorous than either kidney or heart xenografts. We used the in vitro model of porcine hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (PHEC) incubated with either complement replete or deficient human serum to determine the relative roles of the classical and alternate pathways of complement in the immediate response to hepatic xenotransplantation. Our results suggest that either the classical or alternate pathways are capable of independently activating the complement cascade upon exposure to the porcine hepatic sinusoidal endothelium. Our results also imply that either pathway alone is capable of initiating similar degrees of injury as the entire cascade.
Feinstruktur des groβen Netzes von Schaf und Ziege
Authors: Brandt Angelika , Schnorr Bertram , Weyrauch Dietrich
Published: July 2007

The ultrastructure of the adipose tissue connective tissue, mesothelium and milky spots forming the greater cmentum of sheep and goats was studied.

The mixture of connective tissue fibers and adipose tissue is arranged in submesothelial, marginal, and central layers. – The mesothelial cells are covered by a surface coat and are characterized by numerous microvilli and vesicles. The number of milky spots varies greatly. They are commonly found on the surface of the omentum and are covered by modified mesothelial cells; their interior contains macrophages and lymphoid cells.
La conformation extérieure et la lobation du foie du dromadaire (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Ouhsine A. , Zguigal H.
Published: July 2007

The authors have examined the external conformation and the lobes of 100 livers of one humped camels (Camelus dromedarius), mâles and aged between 5 and 10 years. Similitudes and anatomical differences with other domestic animals were also reported.
Histologic Appearance and Distribution of Synovial Membrane Types in the Equine Stifle Joint
Authors: Updike Susan J. , Diesem Charles D.
Published: July 2007

A study of the histologic organization of normal synovial membranes of the stifle joint of the horse is described. Three types of synovial membrane, which appear to be randomly distributed within the stifle joint, are described.
The Canine Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Adams Donald R. , Hotchkiss Donald K.
Published: July 2007

Tissues of the nasal mucosa were utilized from 20 dogs, for histochemistry, quantitative measurements and scanning electorn microscopy. Attention was given to the type of epithelium, organization of submucosal tissues, distribution of vascular structures and glandular organization. These features are characterized and discussed in regar to the respiratory and immune functions of the nasal mucosa.
Fine Structure of the Retinal Photoreceptors of the Domestic Cat (Felis catus)
Authors: Braekevelt Charlie R.
Published: July 2007

The morphology of the retinal photoreceptors of the domestic cat (Felis catus) has been investigated by light and electron microscopy. In this species the photoreceptors can be readily differentiated and adequately described by the classical terminology of rods and cones, with rods being the more numerous. Rods are long slender cells with inner and outer segments of much the same diameter. Cones are shorter cells with a conical outer segment that tapers distally and an inner segment which is wider than the outer segment. Both rods and cones are highly polarized and compartmentalized cells and consist of an outer segment, a connecting cilium, an inner segment, a nuclear region and a synaptic process leading to an expanded synaptic ending. Morphological similarities and differences are noted between the rods and cones for the various regions of these cells.
The Process of Secretion in Swine Apocrine Sweat Glands
Authors: Gargiulo Anna Maria , Pedini Vera , Ceccarelli Piero
Published: July 2007

The secretory process in swine apocrine sweat glands were studied by electron microscope. The sweat appeared to result from three different mechanisms: (a) fluid transport, probably involving a region of complex cellular interdigitations adjacent to the basement membrane, (b) exocytosis of vesicles, which in this species seem to be derived from the Golgi apparatus and finally (c) apocrine secretion.
A Supratrochlear Foramen in the Humerus of Cattle
Authors: Haziroglu R. Merih , Ozer M.
Published: July 2007

A supratrochlear foramen of the humerus was demonstrated in three Turkish cattle. The average size of the foramen was 1.2 times 0.7 cm. This appears to be a new anatomic finding in the bovine.
Die Kapillarisierung des M. pectoralis der Pute (Meleagris galloopavo) vom Schlupf bis zum 280. Lebenstag
Authors: Salomon F.‐V. , Kurnoth Th. , Sager G. , Gille U.
Published: July 2007

The capillarization of the M. pectoralis of the Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) from birth do day 280

The capillarization of the M. pectoralis was examined in the turkey as it changed with age. Examined was the density of the muscles fibers (per mm2), the density of the capillaries (per mm2) and the quotient muscle fibers/capillaries. In accordance with the sequence of the original data four functions of organismic growth (slightly altered) were utilized for the approximation of the data for descending amounts: Pütter/Bertalanffy (1920, 1934); Richards (1959; Janoschek enlarged after Sager (1980 and Richards enlarged after Sager (1980). The approximations were made via nonlinear regressions, whereby the sum of the error amounts and the sums of teh error squares served as criteria of quality. The results including the deduced initial and end amounts are combined in tables which also contain the parameter of the way the computations were conducted.
Morphological, Histochemical and Ultrastructural Features of the Globule Leukocyte of the Bovine Respiratory Tract
Authors: Akpavie S. O. , Pirie H. M.
Published: July 2007

The histochemical and ultrastructural features of the globular leukocyte of the bovine respiratory tract is described and found to be similar to those localized in the abomasum and bile ducts of cattle. Histochemical analysis of these cells demonstrated low amounts of carboxylated mucin mixed with neutral mucin and large amounts of basic protein. Two types of globules were seen in the leucocytes; one with a homegeneous electron dense material and another with vesiculated, crastalloid containing bodies.
The Triangle of Viborg (Trigonum Viborgi) and its Anatomical Relationships in the Normal Standing Horse
Authors: McCarthy P. H.
Published: July 2007

A detailed description is given of the structures forming the borders of Viborg's triangle and those structures contained within and adjacent to the triangle. Changes in the size, shape and prominence of these structures with changes of head and neck posture of the horse are also described.
Zum Wachstum von Skelett, Körpermasse und Muskelfaserdurchmesser der Pute (Meleagris gallopavo) vom Schlupf bis zum 224. Lebenstag
Authors: Salomon F.‐V. , Anger Th. , Krug H. , Gille U. , Pingel H.
Published: July 2007

On the growth of the skeleton, the body mass and the diameter of muscle fibers in the turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) from birth to day 224

Growth of body mass, femur, tibiotarsus, and tarsometatarsus length as well as the diameter of muscle fibers in the M. pectoralis were measured in (Large White) female turkeys between birth and day 224.

Growth‐specific approximations were established with the Janoschek function as modified by Sager (1978) and with the Logistic function. While the Janoschek function fairly described the growth of the turkey, the Logistic function throughout gave beginning values that were too high and theoretical end values that were too low. Of the five growth parameters that were measured, the diameter of the muscle fibers showed its maximal rate of growth first on day 21. The following decrease in growth rate took the following sequence: length of tarsometatarsus, femur, and tibiotarsus, diameter of muscle fibers, body mass. 99 % of growth had occurred in the tarsometatarsus length on day 109, femur length on day 117, tibiotarsus length on day 138, diameter of muscle fibers on day 166, and the body mass on day 231. A comparison of this growth with that of other domestic fowl showed close relationships between the way turkeys and chickens grow.
High incidence of newly‐developed gastroesophageal reflux disease in the Japanese community: A 6‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Miyamoto Masaki , Haruma Ken , Kuwabara Masao , Nagano Makoto , Okamoto Takeshi , Tanaka Mio
Published: July 2007

Background and Aim:  We conducted a community‐based study to assess the incidence of newly‐developed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We also analyzed the risk factors of GERD occurrence.

Methods:  A total of 322 patients without acid suppression therapy (135 men, mean age: 59.8 years), who lived in the Japanese community, took a QUEST questionnaire (a self‐administered questionnaire for the screening of GERD) in 1998. Blood samples were taken for the measurement of an anti‐Helicobacter pylori antibody and pepsinogen (PG) I/II to assess the grade of gastric atrophy. Of these patients, 289 scored less than six points and were diagnosed as non‐GERD. Two‐hundred‐and‐forty‐one patients (95 men, mean age: 67.0 years) took the QUEST questionnaire again in 2004 (after 6 years). The incidence of newly‐developed GERD was analyzed. These patients were categorized into three groups based on their initial PG I/II (group A: less than three, group B: three to six, and group C: more than six). The risk factors of GERD occurrence were evaluated.

Results:  Of the 241 non‐GERD patients, 37 patients (15.4%) developed GERD after 6 years. The incidence of newly‐developed GERD in group C was significantly higher than both groups A and B (group A: 3.8% [three of 79], group B: 11.8% (11/93), group C: 33.3% (26/69), P < 0.01, respectively). The prevalence of H. pylori negativity, constipation, and medication of Ca antagonists in newly‐developed GERD were significantly higher than in those who did not develop GERD. [Correction added after online publication on 1 July 2007: the preceding sentence has replaced one that read ‘The prevalence of H. pylori negativity, constipation, and medication of Ca antagonists in newly‐developed GERD were significantly higher than in those who did develop GERD.’]

Conclusion:  The incidence of newly‐developed GERD in the Japanese community was 16.5% for 6 years. The incidence of newly‐developed GERD patients who scored a PG I/II over six was significantly higher than those who scored lower. H. pylori negativity, constipation, and medication of Ca antagonists might be risk factors of GERD occurrence.
Pathological investigation of oxidative stress in the post‐genomic era
Authors: Toyokuni Shinya , Akatsuka Shinya
Published: July 2007

Aerobes, including humans, are consistently exposed to oxidative stress by consuming oxygen. The biological significance of oxidative stress via reactive oxygen and nitrogen species consists of two stages: reversible redox regulation and irreversible oxidative molecular damage, which are sometimes intermingled. During the past decade, many signaling cascades associated with oxidative stress have been discovered. An interaction between Keap1 and the Nrf2 transcription factor is among the most fundamental mechanisms of the defense system against oxidative or similar stress. Furthermore, it became apparent that reactive oxygen species are actively produced through enzymes such as xanthine oxidoreductase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, reduced (NADPH) oxidases in non‐phagocytic cells as well. The role of α‐tocopherol solely as an anti‐oxidant was also questioned. Now there is a long list of pathological states implicating oxidative stress. At the same time, genome projects on various species have been completed. These efforts convincingly led to a new era of oxidative stress investigation, contributing powerful strategies to select candidate genes or biomolecules. Herein are reviewed recent advances and novel concepts in this field, including oxygenomics. These fruitful results may lead to more accurate and useful pathological diagnosis and more efficient prophylaxis and therapeutic interventions on human diseases.
Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the breast: Immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Tamura Gen , Sasou Shun‐ichi , Kudoh Shun , Kikuchi Jun , Ishikawa Akira , Tsuchiya Takashi , Hasegawa Tadashi
Published: July 2007

A case of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) that developed as a breast lump in a 47‐year‐old Japanese woman is reported. After fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology, a mastectomy was performed. The surgical specimen was a well‐circumscribed tumor, 21 × 18 × 18 mm, localized in the breast. The tumor cells were small and round with scant cytoplasm, and proliferated in sheets or solid nests. No intraductal carcinoma component was present. The tumor cells were immunohistochemically positive for neural cell adhesion molecule (CD56), neuron‐specific enolase and synaptophysin, and they showed membranous immunoreactivity for the MIC2 protein (CD99). Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) indicated a rearrangement of the EWS region on chromosome 22, which is highly specific for Ewing's sarcoma and PNET, which are referred to as the Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors (EFT). No other lesions suggestive of the primary site of this tumor, such as bone, soft tissue, or other organs were detected. The patient has been disease free for 6 months after surgery followed by chemoradiation therapy. FISH is extremely useful for accurate diagnosis of EFT, especially in cases of unusual locations.