bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histochemical Detection of Ubiquinone in Neutrophil Polymorphonuclear Leucocyte Granules
Authors: Lee J.A.
Published: October 2008

Neutrophil polymorphonuclear leucocytes contain a special electron transport chain which is involved in the killing of bacteria in these cells. Identified components of the chain include NADPH, a flavoprotein dehydrogenase and an unusual cytochrome b, but there has been recent disagreement in the biochemical literature as to whether or not an ubiquinone is also present. This study has looked at this question by using an independent histochemical technique for ubiquinones. The results indicate that an ubiquinone is found in association with neutrophil granules, and hence may be implicated in the radical generating system.
Cyclic AMP and Cell Differentiation in Amphibian Embryonic Explants
Authors: Mattsson Mats-Olof , Løvtrup Søren
Published: October 2008

Conflicting results have been published concerning the effects of cyclic nucleotides on amphibian cell differentiation. Here we report the effects of cyclic adenosine mono-phosphate (cAMP) and dibutyryl-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (db-cAMP) on isolated explants from late blastulae of Ambystoma mexicanum and Xenopus laevis. Both cAMP and db-cAMP (10–4–10–9M) promote ‘neuralizing’ differentiation in Ambystoma explants. Xenopus explants treated with the nucleotides (10–4, 10–6, 10–8M) LiCl or heparan sulphate only give rise to ciliated aggregates or dissociation. The results confirm observations that different amphibian species react in different ways to activating chemicals.
Immunocytochemical Localization of Actin in the Sperm Head of Talpa europaea (Insectivora)
Authors: Castellani-Ceresa L. , Colombo R. , Cotelli F. , Lora-Lamia-Donin C.
Published: October 2008

Actin in the sperm head of Talpa europaea was observed by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. The indirect immunofluorescence technique, using both anti-actin and DNase anti-DNase methods, showed a shining fluorescent band around the sperm head in some spermatozoa, whereas in others the fluorescence was found in the postacrosomal region. Since no labeling was detected in sperms treated with NBD-phallacidin, it is likely that mature mole sperms contain G-actin but not F-actin. The results of electron microscopy indicated the deposition of the anti-actin antibodies in two places in mole spermatozoa: the postacrosomal region and the nuclear segment of the acrosome. In the first case, the actin was localized in the space between the outer surface of the postacrosomal sheath and the plasma membrane; in the second one, the actin was localized in the space between the outer acrosomal membrane and the plasma membrane. The significance of the presence of actin and its role(s) during fertilization are discussed.
Collagen Synthesis in Growing Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Kirchhofer Daniel , Reinhardt Christoph A. , Zbinden Gerhard
Published: October 2008

Collagen and noncollagen protein synthesis in cultured human skin fibroblasts was studied in relation to different growth phases. In order to quantify collagen synthesis, we determined the release of incorporated radioactivity using purified bacterial collagenase. Collagen as well as noncollagen protein synthesis markedly decreased during fibroblast growth. On the other hand, we found a 3-fold increase in relative collagen synthesis (i.e. collagen synthesis compared to total protein synthesis) comparing cells in the log growth phase with cells in the stationary growth phase.
Collagen Production by Rat Liver Fat-Storing Cells in Primary Culture
Authors: Kawase Tateo , Shiratori Yasushi , Sugimoto Tsuneaki
Published: October 2008

Morphological changes, proliferation and collagen synthesis of fat-storing cells (FSC) in primary culture were examined. FSC, isolated from rats treated with vitamin A, showed numerous large lipid droplets in the cytoplasm and positive desmin staining. After 4–7 days culture, these cells were transformed into fibroblast-like cells with a gradual depletion of lipid droplets and with abundant well-developed rough endoplasmic reticulum. The proliferation analysis revealed that DNA synthesis preceded the increase of cell number. Enhancement of the collagen synthesis by FSC were associated with the morphological change of the cells. Quantitative analysis revealed that these cells produced mainly type I collagen (84%) and a small amount of type IIIcollagen (16%).
Cellular Growth Modulation
Authors: Hakim Anwar A.
Published: October 2008

Earlier studies reported the enzymatic modulation of the cell surface in malignant transformation of human normal mammary epithelial cells and in conversion of mammary carcinoma. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a neoplasm-associated antigen, its production and release is used to monitor changes in cell phenotype. The present study shows that CEA production and release by human colon carcinoma (CCC), and by colon cells from patients with familial polyposia coli (FPC) and ulcerative colitis (UCC) is inhibited when the cells are cultured in contact with confluent normal colon epithelial (HNCEC) cell monolayer. Footprints left behind and/or conditioned media from HNCEC cells inhibited, whereas footprints left behind and/or conditioned media from CCC, FPC or Ucc enhanced CEA release. During sequential passages of HNCEC cells grown on footprints and/or in spent media from CCC cultures, HNCEC cells acquire the ability to produce and release CEA, and to develop tumors in athymic Nu/Nu mice. On the other hand, during sequential passages, CCC, FPC or UCC grown in spent media, or on footprints left behind HNCEC cells, showed significant decrease in CEA production and release, and in oncologic ability in athymic mice. It is concluded that both the extracellular matrix, and a growth-regulating factor(s) in the spent medium modulate cellular transformation. Quantitative data on CEA-release indicate that FPC and UCC represent an intermediary stage between normal colon epithelial cells and colon carcinoma cells, i.e. a preneoplastic stage.
A High-Affinity Monoclonal Antibody (GIF-1) to Human Gamma-interferon: Neutralization of Interferon Mediated Inhibition of Retrovirus Production and 2’-5’ (A) Synthetase Induction
Authors: Feit Carl , Sen Ganes , Bartal Arie H. , Hirshaut Yashar , Anderson Sylvia L. , Millet Susan K. , Rubin Berish Y.
Published: October 2008

An hybridoma clone secreting an IgG 1 monoclonal antibody (GIF-1) specific for human gamma-interferon (HuIFN-γ) has been generated using HAT medium supplemented with insulin (HIAT) at the initial stage of cell fusion. This antibody is capable of neutralizing the antiviral activity of HuIFN-γ, the ability of HuIFN-γ to inhibit retroviral replication in RD-114 cells, and the ability of HuIFN-γ to induce the 2’-5’ oligoadenylate (A) synthetase in RD-114 and HeLa cells. Eluate from an immunoaffinity column containing GIF-1 yielded two protein bands of molecular weight of 20 and 25 kd when subjected to SDS-PAGE.
Cloning of Cells from Synovial Membrane for the Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Andreasen A. , Jensen P.K.A. , Jakobsen E.
Published: October 2008

In an attempt to make well-defined cell culture systems, a method has been developed to produce clones of cells obtained from the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and patients with HLA B-27 associated arthritis. A preliminary characterization of the cloned cells based on morphologic appearance, avidity for Sudan black B, phagocytosis of latex particles and E-rosette formation is here described.
Neuraminidase and Hematopoietic Factors from Human Urine
Authors: Shimizu Tomoe , Noguchi Junko , Schuebel Kornel , Miyake Takaji , Murphy, Jr. Martin J.
Published: October 2008

Human urinary neuraminidase, an enzyme that releases sialic acid from hematopoietic factors found in urinary preparations, was partially characterized, and a method was developed to derive these hematopoietic factors free of enzyme activity. Neuraminidase in urinary preparations from healthy humans and aplastic anemic (AA) patients had optimal activity at pH 5.3 and hydrolyzed both α2 → 3 and α2 → 6 type ketosidic linkages of N-acetyl-neuramin lactose and α1-acid glycoprotein. When subjected to Sephacryl S-300 gel filtration, urinary neuraminidase showed a single peak of activity with an apparent molecular weight of 380,000 daltons, even under denaturing conditions (6 M guanidine hydrochloride). Furthermore, among a variety of compounds tested, no potent inhibitor of the enzyme was found. Heat treatment of AA urinary preparations eliminated about 80% of neuraminidase activity, while successive two-step ethanol precipitation eliminated residual enzyme. Erythropoietin, megakaryocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) and granulocyte/macrophage CSF activities were retained after these treatments.
Morphometric Analysis of Collagen Fibrils in Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Stransky Gregor , Weis Serge , Neumüller Josef , Hakimzadeh Ahmed , Firneis Fred , Ammer Kurt , Partsch Gerald , Eberl Rudolf
Published: October 2008

Surgical biopsies of dissected transverse carpal ligaments of patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome were examined with an electron microscope revealing collagen fibrils with varying diameters. Morphometric analysis of transversely cut collagen fibrils was performed on photomicrographs exhibiting fibrils with a small diameter comparable to that in normal tissue as well as fibrils with a large diameter that could not be observed in normal tissue.
Chromosomal Aberrations in Early Stages of Development of Methotrexate Resistance in HeLa Cells
Authors: Delinassios J.G. , Talieri M.J.
Published: October 2008

High incidence of dicentrics, rings, double rings, acentric rod-like fragments and double minutes in polyploid cells during the early stages of development of methotrexate resistance in HeLa cells suggests that hypertetraploid cells are precursors of cells with higher resistance levels.
Influence of Testicular Secretions on Differentiation in the Rat Epididymis: Ultrastructural Studies after Castration, Efferent Duct Ligation and Cryptorchidism
Authors: Delongeas Jean-Luc , Gelly Jean-Louis , Leheup Bruno , Grignon Georges
Published: October 2008

The differentiation of the rat epididymis was studied in prepubertal castrated, ligated or cryptorchid rats, in order to assess the influences of blood-borne and luminal androgens. The principal cells showed partial differentiation: decrease in cell height, decreased numbers of cytoplasmic organelles implicated in the elaboration phenomena (Golgi apparatus, smooth endoplasmic reticulum), whereas the organelles implicated in the absorptive function remained relatively intact. The lamina densa of the basement membrane underlying the epithelium was irregular, thicker than normal and followed the irregular outline of the basal parts of the epithelial cells. These changes were evident in castrated rats, to a lesser degree in ligated and cryptorchid rats, and were more prominent in the initial part of the duct. On the other hand, the narrow cells and the clear cells followed a normal differentiation pattern in the experimental rats, suggesting that a differential androgen dependence exists among the various type of epididymal cells.
Synergistic Action of Recombinant-Derived Murine Interleukin-1 on the Augmentation of Colony Stimulating Activity on Murine Granulocyte-Macrophage Hematopoietic Stem Cells in vitro
Authors: Gallicchio Vincent S. , Watts Thomas D. , DellaPuca Richard
Published: October 2008

This communication reports studies that were designed to investigate the role of recombinant-derived murine interleukin-1 on granulocyte macrophage (CFU-GM) progenitor stem cells in vitro. Interleukin-1 (IL-1, 5–25 units/ml culture) in a dose-dependent fashion, stimulated CFU-GM with a maximum effect at 25 units (147.3 ± 6.4 colonies/105 nonadherent-derived marrow cells). At a higher concentration (50 units/ml) this stimulation was significantly reduced. IL-1, in combination with various types of conditioned media: pokeweed mitogen stimulated spleen cell, mouse lung and WEHI-3 cell, as a source of colony-stimulating activity (CSA), produced more CFU-GM when compared to controls (conditioned media alone). Furthermore, when assayed for their esterase activity, IL-1 increased both types of nonspecific and specific esterase content in CFU-GM colonies. Also, the actual ratio between neutrophilic and monocyte/macrophage colonies was reduced when compared to cultures stimulated in the presence of CSA, indicating that IL-1 increased myeloid differentiation. In the presence of indomethacin, an effective inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis (1 µg/ml), greater numbers of CFU-GM were present with IL-1 and/or CSA than without indomethacin. Cultures with anti-CSA demonstrated a reduced number of CFU-GM when plated in the presence of CSA but not with IL-1 demonstrating the specificity of IL-1 to stimulate CFU-GM in the presence of anti-CSA antibody. These results indicate a role for IL-1in modulating granulopoiesis in vitro.
Effect of Dimethylsulfoxide and Hexamethylene Bisacetamide on the JOK-1 Hairy Cell Leukemia Derived Cell Line Propagated in the Nude Mouse
Authors: Hooper Craig , Barth Rolf F. , Houchens David P. , Nines Ron
Published: October 2008

The JOK-1 hairy cell leukemia derived cell line has been propagated as a subcutaneous tumor in nude mice. After the tumor had been serially transplanted for at least two successive generations, mice were treated with either dimethylsulfoxide or hexamethylene bisacetamide (HMBA). These agents have been shown to induce terminal leukemic cell differentiation in vitro. Our results indicated that these agents had an in vivo growth inhibitory effect, with HMBA exerting a dose-dependent response. Histopathological examination revealed massive areas of necrosis with no overt signs of cellular differentiation. These data suggest that in vitro inducers of differentiation may act via another mechanism in vivo.
Vascularization of Normal Human Thyroid Tissue Transplanted to Nude Mice
Authors: Mölne Johan , Jörtsö Erik , Smeds Staffan , Ericson Lars E.
Published: October 2008

The vascularization of normal human thyroid tissue transplanted to nude, athymic mice was examined by light, electron microscopy and autoradiography after continuous infusion of 3H-thymidine during 2, 4 and 6 days after transplantation. Labelled vascular sprouts were found in the surrounding host connective tissue after 2 days, in between peripheral follicles after 4 days and in central parts of the transplants after 6 days. The autoradiographic observations indicate that the sprouts originated from the surrounding host tissue. The amount of sprouts increased up to a maximum after 2 weeks of transplantation. At this time large interfollicular areas were occupied by sprouts. At later observations (3–5 weeks) sprouts occurred together with typical fenestrated capillaries. After 7 weeks all sprouts had differentiated into mature vessels. Our observations suggest that the transplanted thyroid tissue induces the formation of vascular sprouts in the surrounding host connective tissue. The sprouts then penetrate and vascularize the thyroid tissue.
Influence of Race on Kidney Transplantation in the Department of Defense Healthcare System
Authors: Oliver, III James D. , Neff Robert T. , Leeser David B. , Swanson S.J. , Yuan C.M. , Falta Edward M. , Elster Eric , Reinmuth Bruce , Bohen Erin M. , Jindal Rahul M. , Abbott Kevin C.
Published: October 2008

Background: We report the influence of race on transplant outcomes in the Department of Defense (DOD) system. Methods: Retrospective cohort analysis of all kidney transplants performed at WRAMC from 1996 to 2005. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess for differences in graft survival, and Cox regression was used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios for graft loss. For our analyses, we used the cutoff of 6 years (year 2000) when we introduced thymoglobulin induction; maintenance immunosuppression consisted of mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus, and rapid steroid taper (completed withdrawal at 6 weeks) was used for all patients. Results: There were 220 transplants (91 Blacks, 107 Caucasians and 22 Asians). Because the curve for graft survival for Blacks over time violated the proportional hazards assumption (at 6 years post-transplant), analysis was segregated into two segments. Through 6 years of follow-up, graft survival was 77% for Blacks and 81% for non-Blacks (p = 0.74 by log rank). Through 9 potential years of follow-up, graft survival for Blacks was 56% and 78% for Whites (p = 0.005). In Cox regression analysis, Black race, compared with non-Black race, was not significantly associated with graft loss at 6 years, but was significantly associated with graft loss occurring after 6 years. Conclusions: In the DOD health system, no significant differences were seen in graft survival among recipients of different races at 6 years. Black recipients who received a kidney transplant before the year 2000 showed decreased graft survival compared to non-Blacks. This was consistent with change in immunosuppressive regimen in our institution with the introduction of thymoglobulin induction and maintenance therapy with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and withdrawal of prednisone at 6 weeks.
Gender-Dependent Effect of ACE I/D and AGT M235T Polymorphisms on the Progression of Urinary Albumin Excretion in Taiwanese with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tien Kai-Jen , Hsiao Jeng-Yueh , Hsu Shih-Chieh , Liang Hui-Ting , Lin Shiu-Ru , Chen Hung-Chun , Hsieh Ming-Chia
Published: October 2008

Background: We investigated the gender differences in the effect of ACE I/D and AGT M235T polymorphisms on the prognosis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods: A total of 525 type 2 diabetics were enrolled to participate in this prospective observational study. ACE and AGT gene polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction. The progression of DN was defined as a shift to a higher stage of DN or a doubling of the baseline serum creatinine level by the end of the study. Results: The baseline biophysical parameters show no gender differences in progression and non-progression of DN. The women who were ACE D allele carriers were found to be at an increased risk of DN progression compared to those with II genotypes (p = 0.024, OR 2.176). No such difference was seen in male patients (p = 0.619, OR 0.833). After adjusting for confounding factors (age, SBP, DBP, BMI, HbA1c, total cholesterol, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, ACEI, and ARB) in our multiple regression analysis, these women were still found to be at increased risk of progressing to more severe DN (p = 0.008, OR 3.082) but not the men (p = 0.183, OR 0.586). Neither the AGT TT genotype nor the T allele were associated with the progression of DN in either sex after adjusting for confounding factors. Conclusion: Our follow-up study suggests that female diabetic carriers of the ACE D allele might be at an increased risk of DN progression.
Helper T-Cell-Replacing Factors and T-Cell-Growth Factors Produced by Concanavalin A-Stimulated and Pokeweed Mitogen-Stimulated Mouse Spleen Cells
Authors: Frey Johann R. , Lefkovits Ivan
Published: October 2008

Variables affecting helper factor induction by two T-cell mitogens, concanavalin A (Con A) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM), were examined. It was found that both factors are capable of reconstituting T-cell-dependent antibody response as well as enhancing mitogen-stimulated thymocyte proliferation. Detectable factor production is obtained within 6–12 h of culture; Con A factor production reaches a peak usually around 24 h, while no factor activity is detectable after 72 h of culture period. PWM factor production persists throughout 72 h of culture. Con A factor production can be rescued at culture periods beyond 24 or 48 h by using supraoptimal Con A doses. Con A factor, if incubated at 37°C under cell-free conditions in a serum-free medium, shows a rapid rate of decay; in the presence of cells the decay is considerably reduced.
The Suppression of Tumorigenicity in Human X Mouse Cell Hybrids
Authors: Chopan Michael , Kopelovich Levy
Published: October 2008

We have studied the expression of transformation-related parameters in tertiary hybrid clones from an apparently transformed human cell strain (ME) and a malignant mouse cell line (A9). The derivation of these hybrid clones, chromosome analysis, and tumorigenic potential have been reported elsewhere (1). In the present work, the serum sensitivity, saturation density, cloning efficiency on plastic surfaces and in semisolid medium, survival in aggregate form, concanavalin A agglutinability, sugar uptake, and secretion of plasminogen activator in 4 tertiary hybrid clones and in both parent cells have been determined. While, in general, the extent to which these transformation-related traits were expressed in the hybrid clones closely resembled the malignant A9 parent cell, all hybrids displayed partial to complete suppression of tumorigenicity. These results suggest no apparent relationship between the extent or quality of transformation and tumorigenicity in these cell hybrids.
Growth of Human Colorectal Tumor Xenografts in Immunosuppressed Mice Reconstituted with Normal Cells
Authors: Kopper L. , Van Hanh Tran , Hegedüs C. , Lapis K.
Published: October 2008

The growth of human colorectal tumor xenograft lines was studied in immunosuppressed mice after reconstitution with sensitized and nonsensitized macrophages, thymocytes and splenocytes obtained from normal mice. Intravenously injected macrophages caused temporary inhibition of tumor growth. This effect needed intact cells and was independent from the presence of the spleen. The weight of spleen increased in normal mice sensitized with xenograft tumor, and the sensitized splenocytes injected into tumor-bearing immunosuppressed mice caused substantial tumor-growth delay.
Immunological Reconstitution of Tumour-Transplanted and Thymus-Grafted Nude Mice
Authors: Jacobsen Krag , Rygaard J. , Povlsen C.O.
Published: October 2008

Two different malignant tumours were transplanted prior to or after thymus grafts in nude mice, and the degree of immunological reconstitution was studied. All mice which rejected either of the tumour types had reconstitution as expressed by an excess of splenic plaque-forming cells. The level of response was dependent upon the age of the thymus graft and whether a tumour was transplanted or not. In contrast, the result of the phytohaemagglutinin stimulation assays of spleen cells were always subnormal in thymus-grafted as well as in thymus-plus tumour-transplanted mice.
Concanavalin A Agglutination Assays in the Multistage Transformation of a Pig Cell Line
Authors: Bouillant A.M.P. , Greig A.S.
Published: October 2008

Cells of a pig Fallopian tube line were agglutinated by concanavalin A (ConA). Similar ConA agglutination was shown in diploid and nontumoral transformed cells with one (T1) translocation until the 112th subculture. Then a progressive increase of agglutination was shown until the 149th subculture and the rate of agglutination remained constant thereafter. The progression of ConA agglutination paralleled the progression of anchorage independence. The highest ConA agglutination occurred when anchorage independence was well established and persisted until the 193rd T1 subculture when benign tumorigenicity was demonstrated. After the appearance of the second translocation (T2), the self-agglutination of the cells was directly related to malignancy and to high tumor incidence in mice. Anchorage independence and the highest ConA agglutination were directly related to benign transformation and indirectly related to malignant transformation of the pig Fallopian tube cell line.
Developmental Arrest of Mouse Tooth Germs in vitro by 6-Diazo-5-Oxonorleucine (DON)
Authors: Galbraith Donald B. , Wolf Barbara L. , Edelson David R.
Published: October 2008

Molars and incisors were excised from the mandibles of 15-day-old mouse embryos and explanted to agar-solidified Eagle’s basal medium with 10% fetal calf serum and to medium containing 6-diazo-5-oxonorleucine (DON), a glutamine analog which inhibits glycoprotein and glycosaminoglycan synthesis. The concentration of DON ranged from 5-100 µg/ml; the lowest dose at which consistent results were obtained was 75 µg/ml. At the end of a 4-day culture period, controls displayed characteristic incisiform or molariform morphologies and possessed odontoblasts and preameloblasts. The growth and development of DON-treated germs, however, was arrested and such germs remained morphologically and histologically similar to the developmental state attained at the time of explantation. DON-treated germs also contained less abundant Alcian blue staining material than controls. Development arrest by DON was prevented by addition of glutamine but not by glucosamine or the purine analog amino imidazol carboximine. Suppressed germs resumed normal development when removed from medium containing 75 µg/ml of DON to control medium. These results suggest that glycoprotein or glycosaminoglycans play a role in epithelial-mesenchymal inductive interactions.
Inhibitory Effects of the Graft versus Host Reaction upon the Development of the Bursa of Fabricius
Authors: Gérard H. , Gérard A. , Marchal L.
Published: October 2008

The graft versus host reaction elicited in the chick embryo by lymphoid cells from a homologous adult donor is known to alter the histogenesis of the bursa of Fabricius. This paper reports the first scanning and transmission electron microscope studies of this phenomenon. Of the three main bursal components (lymphoid lineage, endodermic epithelium and mesenchyma), the subepithelial mesenchyma (SEM) exhibits the earliest and the most obvious modifications. There is a concomitant decrease of SEM alkaline phosphatase activity. It is suggested that disorganization of the SEM, which is a normal pathway of migration for the lymphoid precursors, reduces the inflow of these cells into the epithelial compartment.
Human Hematopoietic Tumors in Nude Mice
Authors: Sordillo Peter P. , Hansen Herbert , Jhanwar Suresh C. , Beck Jorn , Lieberman Philip , Helson Lawrence
Published: October 2008

Despite the difficulty in establishing human hematopoietic tumors in nude mice, four human lymphomas were successfully heterotransplanted and passaged serially in our laboratory. Additional immunosuppression with chemotherapy, whole-body radiation or splenectomy was not required for establishment of these tumors. All four of these tumors were of the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma type. In each case the tumors in the nude mice were histologically identical to the biopsy specimens from the patient in whom they were derived. Attempts to transplant tumor from 17 patients with Hodgkin’s disease or 4 patients with immunoblastic lymphadenopathy were unsuccessful. Tumors from 2 patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia and 1 with hairy cell leukemia could be grown in nude mice conditioned with whole-body radiation or cytosine arabinoside, but these tumors could not be passaged to other nude mice. Cell surface markers were determined on the four serially passaged lymphomas. These surface markers were similar to the markers on the original tumors, even after long periods of mouse-to-mouse passage. In 1 patient with fevers, night sweats and mediastinal mass in whom a diagnosis had not been made after several biopsies, examination of tumor tissue that had been transplanted from the patient to the nude mouse clearly established the diagnosis of lymphoma.
Age-Dependent Inhibition of Growth of Mouse Neuroblastoma Cells by Mouse Brain Extract
Authors: Endoh Yumiko , Takeda Shumpei , Matsuzawa Taiju
Published: October 2008

In the developing mouse brain, inhibition of cell proliferation and cell death occur naturally. In order to study the factors which control growth and differentiation of neural cells, we added brain extract of mice of various ages to N-18 mouse neuroblastoma cell cultures. Brain extract from newborn mice inhibited N-18 cell growth and, at high concentrations, induced cell death. The colony-forming ability of N-18 cells was also inhibited by brain extract. This inhibitory effect of brain extract on the colony-forming ability increased with fetal age and became most significant at birth, then gradually decreased. Brain extract of 19-day embryos promoted the neurite outgrowth of N-18 cells at low concentrations, at which cell growth was not affected. On the other hand, brain extract of adult mice had no effect on the growth and morphology of cells at the same concentration.
Tunicamycin-Induced Shape Transformation in Rabbit Erythrocytes and Loss of Adhesion in Limnaea Embryonic Cells
Authors: Guha Tapan , Brahmachary R.L.
Published: October 2008

The effect of tunicamycin (TM), a nucleoside antibiotic, known to inhibit growth of a number of virus, protozoan and metazoan organisms, presumably by intervening in the glycosylation of glycoproteins, has been studied on Limnaea egg cells and rabbit erythrocytes. TM decreases the adhesion of cells in Limnaea morula and, apparently, induces a high degree of membrane permeability probably leading to the extrusion of cytoplasmic material. The effect of TM is more specific on mature rabbit erythrocytes which have no subcellular structure. TM treatment in vitro alters the normal biconcave disc-shaped erythrocytes successively into crenated discs, crenated spheres, and smooth spheres. This type of transformation is known to be caused by a number of substances but the present report is the first to indicate a nucleoside-containing compound. This irreversible reaction may be attributed to a structural change of the cellular membrane of erythrocytes.
Essential Role of Developmentally Activated Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1α for Cardiac Morphogenesis and Function
Authors: Krishnan Jaya , Ahuja Preeti , Bodenmann Sereina , Knapik Don , Perriard Evelyne , Krek Wilhelm , Perriard Jean-Claude
Published: October 2008

Development of the mammalian heart is governed by precisely orchestrated interactions between signaling pathways integrating environmental cues and a core cardiac transcriptional network that directs differentiation, growth and morphogenesis. Here we report that in mice, at about embryonic day (E)8.5 to E10.0, cardiac development proceeds in an environment that is hypoxic and characterized by high levels of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1α protein. Mice lacking HIF1α in ventricular cardiomyocytes exhibit aborted development at looping morphogenesis and embryonic lethality between E11.0 to E12.0. Intriguingly, HIF1α-deficient hearts display reduced expression of the core cardiac transcription factors Mef2C and Tbx5 and of titin, a giant protein that serves as a template for the assembly and organization of the sarcomere. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that Mef2C, Tbx5, and titin are direct target genes of HIF1α in vivo. Thus, hypoxia signaling controls cardiac development through HIF1α-mediated transcriptional regulation of key components of myofibrillogenesis and the cardiac transcription factor network, thereby providing a mechanistic basis of how heart development, morphogenesis, and function is coupled to low oxygen tension during early embryogenesis.
Who Knows Best what the People Want: Women or Men?
Authors: Lindgren Karl-Oskar , Inkinen Magdalena , Widmalm Sten
Published: October 2008

The notion of representation lies at the heart of liberal democratic thinking, and over the years considerable effort has gone into defining and measuring the concept. The least common denominator in the voluminous literature is that in a representative political system there should be a certain amount of attitudinal congruence between masses and elites. One much-debated strategy for obtaining a better match between elite and mass policy opinion is that of increasing the representation of women in important decision-making positions in society. Using data on nearly 5,000 elite-mass dyads within 24 Indian villages, the authors find strong support for the view that a more equal representation of women increases opinion congruence between masses and elites. The results are challenging because they show that women are not only better equipped than men to politically represent women but also that they are better at representing men—and the results are shown to apply in a variety of socioeconomic contexts.
Practitioner Views of Priorities, Policies, and Practices in Juvenile Justice
Authors: Mears Daniel P. , Shollenberger Tracey L. , Willison Janeen B. , Owens Colleen E. , Butts Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2008

Dramatic changes in juvenile justice have occurred in recent decades. One result has been the emergence of new policies and practices, many of which remain largely unexamined. One avenue for gaining insight into whether such policies and practices are needed or effective, as well as into how the juvenile justice system might be improved, is to tap into the perceptions of people who work within this system. Drawing on a national survey of juvenile court practitioners, the authors investigate key questions about the effectiveness of juvenile justice and discuss the implications of the study’s findings for research, policy, and practice.
On Shape and Spaciousness
Authors: Stamps Arthur E.
Published: October 2008

Theory suggests that having enough space is a fundamental human need and so research on how environments can be modified to increase perceived spaciousness is important. Two experiments, covering 109 participants and 30 stimuli, investigated possible effects of horizontal area and aspect ratios of recesses on judged spaciousness of streets. One experiment simulated the streets with dynamic virtual reality models in which participants could move around. The other experiment simulated the streets with three static colored images. Both simulation protocols generated the same conclusions. The most important factor in judged spaciousness was horizontal area. Larger areas were judged as being more spacious. Streets with setbacks that were shallower but longer were judged as being more spacious than streets with setbacks that were deeper but shorter. The results suggest that even if the actual size of a space is fixed, it is possible to increase perceived spaciousness by modifying the shape of the space.
Attitude-Based Target Groups to Reduce the Ecological Impact of Daily Mobility Behavior
Authors: Hunecke Marcel , Haustein Sonja , Böhler Susanne , Grischkat Sylvie
Published: October 2008

This study analyzes the usefulness of an attitude-based target group approach in predicting the ecological impact of mobility behavior. Based on a survey of 1,991 inhabitants of three large German cities, constructs derived from an expanded version of the Theory of Planned Behavior were used to identify distinct attitude-based target groups. Five groups were identified, each representing a unique combination of attitudes, norms, and values. The groups differed significantly from each other with regard to travel-mode choice, distances traveled, and ecological impact. In comparison with segmentations based on sociodemographic and geographic factors, the predictive power of the attitude-based approach was higher, especially with regard to the use of private motorized modes of transportation. The opportunities and limits of reducing the ecological impact of mobility behavior on the basis of an attitude-based target group approach are discussed.
Residential Satisfaction and Levels of Environment in Students’ Residences
Authors: Amole Dolapo
Published: October 2008

This study investigates the relationship between residential satisfaction and levels of the residential environment. Specifically, it identifies the levels of environment to which users respond in relation to satisfaction, how significant satisfaction is across levels of environment, and the dimensions of satisfaction across the levels. The study uses data collected from 1,124 students in 20 residence halls in four Nigerian universities. Responses to 49 satisfaction items about various attributes of the residence halls are subjected to factor analysis. Three levels of environment, namely, the bedroom, the floor, and the hall emerge from the analysis, and satisfaction is significantly different across these levels. Although the experience of satisfaction is different, separate, and hierarchical at the different levels of environment, the users respond to similar dimensions of satisfaction at each level. The implications of these results are also discussed.
Recklessness in Context
Authors: Harris Paul B. , Houston John M.
Published: October 2008

Traffic-related injury and fatality are major health risks in the United States and worldwide. One contributor to road accidents is unsafe and aggressive driving practices. We examined individual and situational aspects of aggressive driving by having 152 undergraduate students complete self-report measures. Aggressive driving was related to personality variables, such as hostility, sensation seeking, and competitiveness, as well as to social variables such as driving without passengers and characteristics of the target vehicle (e.g., passengers, age, and status of driver), environmental variables (e.g., type of road, traffic, and weather), and temporal variables (e.g., time pressure and time of day).
Synchronous Provider Visit and Self-management Education Improves Glycemic Control in Hispanic Patients With Long-Standing Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gold Robert , Yu Katherine , Liang Li-Jung , Adler Fredric , Balingit Peter , Luc Penny , Hernandez Jose , Toro Yvonne , Modilevsky Tamara
Published: October 2008

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a multidisciplinary diabetes self-management program. The study focused on improving diabetes control by synchronizing regularly scheduled provider visits with a multidisciplinary diabetes education program. This intervention was instituted in Hispanic patients with long-standing poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.

Methods The study was initiated as a performance improvement project. A group of 44 type 2 diabetes patients followed by the internal medicine faculty with HbA1c levels greater than 9.5 over a 12-month period was identified. Twenty-three of the identified patients were enrolled in a synchronous care group. A cohort control group of the remaining 21 patients not participating in the intervention was followed with routine care. The intervention group shared similar demographic characteristics, medication regimens, initial diabetes control, and a number of provider visits with the control group. The primary outcome of interest for the study is the HbA1c level.

Results The findings demonstrated that our synchronous management approach significantly improved HbA1c level over standard management for medically indigent Hispanic patients with long-standing poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (P < .001). The majority of the patients (89%) in the Intensive Management Group had declines in HbA1c level from baseline, compared to the Standard Management Group (60%, P = .04).

Conclusion The temporal linkage between routine provider visits and a diabetes self-management education intervention in poorly controlled Hispanic patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes led to a significant improvement in HbA1c levels.
Couples' Reasons for Cohabitation
Authors: Rhoades Galena K. , Stanley Scott M. , Markman Howard J.
Published: October 2008

This study uses a new measure to examine how different types of reasons for cohabitation are associated with individual well-being and relationship quality in a sample of 120 cohabiting heterosexual couples ( N = 240). Spending more time together and convenience are the most strongly endorsed reasons. The degree to which individuals report cohabiting to test their relationships is associated with more negative couple communication and more physical aggression as well as lower relationship adjustment, confidence, and dedication. Testing the relationship is also associated with higher levels of attachment insecurity and more symptoms of depression and anxiety. Men are more likely than women to endorse testing their relationships and less likely to endorse convenience as a reason for cohabiting.
A Model of Substance Abuse Risk
Authors: Chandrika Ismail Anne , De Alwis Seneviratne Rohini , Newcombe Peter A. , Wanigaratne Shamil
Published: October 2008

This study translated and validated the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale (SURPS) among 13 to 18 year old Sri Lankan adolescents attending school. A standard systematic translation procedure was followed to translate the original SURPS into Sinhala language. A Delphi process was conducted to determine judgmental validity of Sinhala SURPS. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to test the translated version against the original theoretical model of the SURPS. Test-retest and internal consistency were used to ensure reliability. A few terms in one of the items posed some difficulty in translating into Sinhala. Adequate judgmental validity was determined except for one item, which was modified to suit the Sri Lankan setting. The four subscales introversion/ hopelessness, impulsivity, sensation seeking and anxiety sensitivity showed satisfactory test-retest reliability estimates of .74, .68, .76, and .88, respectively. The Sinhala SURPS is applicable in Sri Lankan context. Several implications based on the results are discussed.
Interlocal Agreements as Collaborations
Authors: Chen Yu-Che , Thurmaier Kurt
Published: October 2008

Interlocal agreements (ILAs) have long been a useful tool for municipal and county governments to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of local government services. Yet although they have a long history in practice, there is little empirical study of the impetus and success of ILAs, especially on a statewide basis. This study presents results from a statewide survey of ILAs in Iowa created in the period, 1993-2004. Results suggest that ILAs are created to increase the effectiveness as well as efficiency of local services. The impetus for ILAs provides a focusing effect. Moreover, equitable sharing of benefits is important for the success of ILAs, and population and type of service also matter.
Simulating History to Understand International Politics
Authors: Weir Kimberly , Baranowski Michael
Published: October 2008

To understand world politics, one must appreciate the context in which international systems develop and operate. Pedagogy studies demonstrate that the more active students are in their learning, the more they learn. As such, using computer simulations can complement and enhance classroom instruction. CIVILIZATION is a computer simulation game that allows players to build a civilization, competing against other civilizations. As players manage resources to develop their civilizations, establish diplomatic relations with other civilizations, strengthen trade relations, and engage in military and peace alliances, they become immersed in a simulated international system. This article explores the value of using CIVILIZATION as an active learning approach to teach international relations, focusing on the many ways in which students can better understand and appreciate the defining concepts, as well as the complexities, of international politics through playing a computer game.
Micromechanical Elastoplastic Damage Mechanics for Elliptical Fiber-Reinforced Composites with Progressive Partial Fiber Debonding
Authors: Ju J.W. , Yanase K.
Published: October 2008

By considering progressive interfacial partial debonding, a multi-level elastoplastic damage formulation is proposed to predict the overall transverse behavior of continuous elliptical fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites within the framework of micromechanics and homogenization. Based on the method of equivalent inclusion and taking the evolutionary interfacial debonding angle into consideration, partially debonded isotropic elliptical fibers are replaced by equivalent orthotropic yet perfectly bonded elliptical fibers. Three interfacial damage modes are considered. The Weibull’s probabilistic function is employed to describe the varying probability of progressive partial fiber debonding. The effective elastic moduli of four-phase composites, consisting of a ductile matrix and randomly located yet unidirectionally aligned elliptical fibers are derived via a micromechanical formulation. Further, the explicit exact exterior-point Eshelby’s tensor for an elliptical fiber is presented to investigate its effects upon inelastic responses of composites due to the cross-sectional shapes of fibers. In order to characterize the overall transverse elastoplastic damage behavior, an effective yield function is derived based on the ensemble-area averaging and the first-order effects of eigenstrains upon the overall yielding. Finally, comparisons between the present predictions and experimental data, and biaxial simulations are performed to illustrate the potential of the proposed framework.
Cohesive Micromechanics: A New Approach for Progressive Damage Modeling in Laminated Composites
Authors: Haj-Ali Rami
Published: October 2008

A new cohesive micromechanical modeling framework is presented for the progressive damage analysis of laminated composite materials and structures. The cohesive micromechanics (CM) modeling approach is based on simplified 3D unit cell with incremental and damage formulations. The unidirectional CM model formulated in this paper is implemented in a local—global nonlinear damage modeling framework that recognizes the fiber and matrix constituents along with the cohesive interface/interphase subcells at the lower level. The cohesive elements are embedded between the fiber—fiber, fiber—matrix, and matrix—matrix subcells. Separate tension and compression traction-separation constitutive relations are used for the cohesive subcells in order to degrade the traction and internal resisting force across the plane between the two adjacent constituents. As a result, progressive damage modeling in the structural level can be achieved at the micromechanical level while maintaining the full advantage of using concurrent nonlinear micromechanical modeling prior and during damage progression spanning the entire structure. The proposed CM damage framework allows nonlinear anisotropic response, including strain softening, and damaged elastic loading/unloading behavior. Robust and efficient numerical stress correction algorithms have been also developed in order to satisfy the local traction continuity and strain compatibility of the micromechanical model. The effectiveness of the proposed modeling approach is demonstrated by predicting the response of composite plates with an open hole under tension and compression loading using available test results from the literature.
An Investigation of the Microscopic Mechanism of Fracture and Healing Processes in Cortical Bone
Authors: Deng Q. , Chen Y. , Lee J.D.
Published: October 2008

A nonlocal nonlinear multiscale field theory is briefly introduced in this paper. The theory is then reduced to a nonlocal linear elastic theory. A meshfree method is applied to solve the governing equation. The entire process of microcrack propagation in the cortical bone, including the propagation of microcrack toward the osteon, around the osteon, and out of the osteon, is simulated. The results show that the cement line between the osteanal bone and the interstitial bone serves as a protective barrier for the Haversian canal. We also observed that, with healing process incorporated in the simulation, cement line serves as a barrier for the microcracks propagation.
Investigation of Mechanical Properties of ZSM-5-based Materials through MD Simulations
Authors: Xiong Liming , Chen Youping , Lee James
Published: October 2008

Mechanical properties of ZSM-5 zeolites are investigated through molecular dynamics simulation in this work. Negative thermal expansion (NTE) of ZSM-5 is observed and the mechanism of NTE at atomic scale is discussed. Effects of environment temperature and material defects are studied. It is shown that tensile strength decreases when the ambient temperature is increased. It is found that introducing defects into the material leads to lower tensile strength. With the onset of failure of the sample, there occurs a sudden drop of virial stress.