bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicentric Castleman Disease with Cutaneous Manifestations: Report of 2 Cases and Comparison with Systemic Plasmacytosis
Authors: Higashi Yuko , Kanekura Takuro , Sakamoto Ryoko , Mochitomi Yuji , Kanzaki Tamotsu
Published: April 2017

We report 2 patients with multicentric Castleman disease. Both presented with multiple, indurated, hyperpigmented plaques, generalized lymphadenopathy and polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia. Biopsy specimens showed infiltration of mature plasma cells and lymphocytes in the dermis and lymph nodes. Skin specimens were negative for human herpesvirus 8, latent nuclear antigen 1 and Epstein-Barr virus by in situ hybridization. PCR disclosed clonal T-cell receptor gene rearrangement in the bone marrow cells of 1 patient. We discuss the possible relationship between multicentric Castleman disease and systemic plasmacytosis as well as plasma cell proliferation.
Poikiloderma of Civatte: A Histopathological and Ultrastructural Study
Authors: Katoulis A.C. , Stavrianeas N.G. , Panayiotides J.G. , Bozi E. , Vamvasakis E. , Kalogeromitros D. , Georgala S.
Published: April 2017

Background: Poikiloderma of the face and neck (Civatte) has not been studied in depth for decades, especially as far as the histopathology is concerned. Material and Methods: We studied 50 consecutive patients with poikiloderma of Civatte (PC). Their evaluation included: history, physical examination, lesional skin biopsy and histological examination of sections stained with hematoxylin-eosin, PAS, Fontana-Masson, acid orcein Giemsa for elastic fibers and toluidine blue for mast cells. In 10 randomly selected subjects, a second skin biopsy was performed and specimens were examined under the electron microscope. Results: There were 34 females (68%) and 16 males. The mean age at diagnosis was 47.8 years for females and 61.7 years for males. Histological examination revealed an atrophic (62%), flattened (84%) epidermis with hyperkeratosis (92%) and occasional follicular plugging (34%). In some cases, mild hydropic degeneration of the basal cell layer was evident (46%). Melanin was irregularly distributed in the lower epidermis (94%), and melanophages were often present in the dermis (92%). The most prominent and constant feature (100%) was solar elastosis of the papillary dermis. The blood vessels were almost invariably dilated (96%) with a mild perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate (78%), sometimes with plasmacytes (56%). At the ultrastructural level, the epidermis showed only minor changes. The dermoepidermal junction was intact. The most constant findings were swelling and disruption of the collagen fibers as well as focal degeneration of the collagen bundles. Occasionally, several vacuolar spaces were found just under the basal lamina. Melanin-laden macrophages scattered in the dermis were also detected. Conclusions: PC shows distinct histological and ultrustructural features, supporting the theory that it represents a separate entity. The histology of PC is characteristic but not pathognomonic. On this basis, the differential diagnosis from Riehl’s melanosis, poikiloderma atrophicans et vasculare and other acquired poikilodermas can be made. Ultrastructural findings were consistent with the histological findings. Changes of the dermal connective tissue (solar elastosis) predominated, providing morphological evidence for the role of ultraviolet radiation in the pathogenesis of PC.
The LOC387715 Gene, Smoking, Body Mass Index, Environmental Associations with Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Francis Peter J. , George Sarah , Schultz Dennis W. , Rosner Bernard , Hamon Sara , Ott Jurg , Weleber Richard G. , Klein Michael L. , Seddon Johanna M.
Published: April 2017

Background and Aims: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the Western World. It is now evident that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to disease susceptibility. We tested the hypotheses that (a) a common coding SNP in the LOC387715 gene is associated with advanced AMD (geographic atrophy or choroidal neovascularization), and (b) that modifiable environmental exposures alter AMD susceptibility associated with this SNP. Methods: A case-control association analysis was performed on participants (530 advanced AMD cases and 280 controls) ascertained as part of the multi-center Age-Related Eye Disease Study. AMD status was determined by the reading center from fundus photographs using the AREDS AMD grading categorization. Environmental risk factor exposure data was collected from participants whose DNA was also genotyped for the LOC387715 gene SNP rs10490924. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results and Conclusions: The number of risk alleles at the LOC387715 SNP was associated with advanced AMD, with odds ratios (OR) = 3.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1–4.3) for the GT heterozygous genotype and OR = 12.1 (5.6–26.5) for the homozygous TT risk genotype, after controlling for demographic and behavioral risk factors. The LOC387715 SNP was associated with both forms of advanced AMD. Current cigarette smoking and body mass index were independently related to AMD, controlling for genotype. However, there was no statistical interaction between LOC387715 genotype and smoking with regard to advanced AMD development.
Adherence to Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Chlebowski Rowan T. , Geller Michelle L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose: Despite the demonstrated efficacy of long-duration adjuvant tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitor use in breast cancer management, information on adherence to such therapy is limited. Therefore, we reviewed the published literature regarding hormonal therapy adherence in clinical trial and practice settings. Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed database, augmented by a review of manuscript references and conference proceedings, commonly identified adherence reports in clinical trials but identified only 9 adherence reports in clinical practice settings. Results: In adjuvant breast cancer clinical trials with longer (≧4 years) follow-up, hormonal therapy (tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors) was prematurely discontinued by about 23–28% of the study participants. Adherence to aromatase inhibitors did not differ from adherence to tamoxifen in this setting. In breast cancer prevention trials, tamoxifen was prematurely discontinued by 20–46% of the participants. In clinical practice settings, only 2 reports addressed longer-duration (>4 years) adherence to adjuvant tamoxifen use. In these, tamoxifen was prematurely discontinued by 30–50% of the patients. Conclusion: Adherence to prescribed breast cancer hormone therapy has not received concerted attention. Current, albeit limited, evidence suggests long-term hormone therapy adherence may represent an area limiting optimal breast cancer patient treatment.
Frequent Occurrence of Abnormal E-Cadherin/β-Catenin Protein Expression in Advanced Gallbladder Cancers and Its Association with Decreased Apoptosis
Authors: Hirata Kenro , Ajiki Tetsuo , Okazaki Taro , Horiuchi Hideki , Fujita Tsunenori , Kuroda Yoshikazu
Published: April 2017

Objective: Our aim is to assess the clinicopathological significance of E-cadherin and β-catenin expression, as well as their association with apoptosis in gallbladder cancers. Methods: The expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin proteins was examined in 4 biliary tract cancer cell lines and 49 gallbladder cancer specimens by immunofluorescent or immunohistochemical methods and Western blotting. The apoptotic status was evaluated in the cell lines by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase Western blotting and in the tumors by the TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay. Results: Expression of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (apoptosis) was only seen in cell lines that expressed both E-cadherin and β-catenin. Reduced expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin was frequently seen in advanced gallbladder cancer cases (61 and 83%, respectively) relative to pT1 cases (25 and 63%, respectively). The 5-year survival rate in cases with reduced E-cadherin expression was 26%, significantly lower than in cases with preserved E-cadherin expression (70%; p = 0.017). Cases with reduced expression of both had lower apoptotic indices and showed a worse prognosis compared with cases with reduced expression of either E-cadherin or β-catenin (p = 0.04 and 0.049, respectively). Conclusions: The expression of E-cadherin or β-catenin frequently diminishes as the tumor progresses, and abnormalities of E-cadherin and β-catenin expression were associated with decreased apoptosis in gallbladder cancers. E-cadherin expression might be a useful prognostic marker in this tumor.
Computerised Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tumur Indra , Kaltenthaler Eva , Ferriter Michael , Beverley Catherine , Parry Glenys
Published: April 2017

Background: Computer-guided therapy is an innovative treatment strategy that could have an important role in the future of psychological treatment. This paper summarises the available published evidence that assesses the effectiveness of a computerised cognitive behaviour therapy (CCBT) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Methods: Fifteen electronic bibliographic databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Cinahl, PsycINFO, Biological Abstracts, HMIC and NHS CRD databases were comprehensively searched in March 2004: [‘obsessive compulsive disorder’ (text and indexed terms)] AND [‘cognitive therapy’ (text and indexed terms)] AND [‘computer’ (text and indexed terms)]. Reference lists of included studies, guidelines, generic research, trials registers and specialist mental health sites were hand-searched. Results: The search produced 149 citations from which we identified two RCTs and two single-arm studies with relevant data. All four studies used one software programme – BTSteps.In the large RCT, YBOCS effect sizes for BTSteps, therapist-led cognitive behaviour therapy (TCBT) and relaxation (RLX) were 0.84, 1.22, and 0.35, respectively. The smaller RCT found significantly better outcomes with brief scheduled support compared to brief on-demand phone support. Conclusions: BTSteps was as good as TCBT for reducing time spent in rituals and obsessions and for improving the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSA), and was superior to RLX treatment. The available evidence also showed that improvement of OCD persisted beyond the end of CCBT. TCBT was more effective than CCBT for all patients overall though not in those who went on to start self-exposure. Such a system has the potential to widen the access to CBT in general and considerably shorten clinician-guided care.
Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Atypical Antipsychotics for the Treatment of Behavioural Problems in Persons with Dementia
Authors: Yury Craig A. , Fisher Jane E.
Published: April 2017

Background: To review published reports of the usage of atypical antipsychotics for behavioural problems of dementia patients. Methods: The electronic database Medline was searched from 1999 to 2006 with a combination of search terms including ‘behavioural problems’ and ‘atypical antipsychotics’. Results: Thirteen eligible studies were included in the overall analysis. The total number of participants was 1,683, of whom 1,015 received medication and 668 received placebo. Medications studied were risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine. Other studies examined other types of medications, such as typical versus atypical antipsychotics, but only data for atypical antipsychotics were included in the meta-analysis. The mean effect size for 7 placebo-controlled studies was 0.45 (95% CI = 0.16–0.74) for atypical antipsychotics, and 0.32 (95% CI = 0.10–0.53) for placebo. The mean effect size of all 13 studies included in the analysis was 0.31 (95% CI = 0.08–0.54). Conclusions: In general, effect sizes of atypical antipsychotics for behavioural problems are medium, and there are no statistically or clinically significant differences between atypical antipsychotics and placebo.
Use of Mycobacterium austroafricanum IFP 2012 in a MTBE-Degrading Bioreactor
Authors: Maciel Helena , Mathis Hugues , Lopes Ferreira Nicolas , Lyew Darwin , Guiot Serge , Monot Frédéric , Greer Charles W. , Fayolle-Guichard Françoise
Published: April 2017

Mycobacterium austroafricanum IFP 2012 is able to slowly grow on methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), a fuel oxygenate widely used as a gasoline additive. The potential of M. austroafricanum IFP 2012 for aerobic MTBE degradation was investigated in the presence of a secondary carbon source, isopropanol. The strain was then tested for MTBE biodegradation at the laboratory-scale in a fixed-bed reactor using perlite as the matrix, and isopropanol was injected once a week to maintain M. austroafricanum IFP 2012 biomass inside the perlite bed. The biofilter was operated for 85 days at an influent flow rate of 20 ml/h by varying the MTBE concentration from 10 to 20 mg/l. The hydraulic retention time was fixed at 5 days. The removal of MTBE depended on the inlet MTBE concentration and a MTBE removal efficiency higher than 99% was obtained for MTBE concentrations up to 15 mg/l. A set of 16S rRNA gene primers specific for M. austroafricanum species was used to analyze the DNA extracted from the biofilter effluent in order to detect the presence of M. austroafricanum IFP 2012 and to estimate the effect of periodic injections of isopropanol on the release of the strain from the perlite bed. The results demonstrated that the injection of isopropanol served to maintain an active MTBE degrading biomass in the biofilter and that this system could be used to effectively treat MTBE contaminated groundwater.
Genetic Association between SORL1 Polymorphisms and Alzheimer’s Disease in a Japanese Population
Authors: Shibata Nobuto , Ohnuma Tohru , Baba Hajime , Higashi Shinji , Nishioka Kenya , Arai Heii
Published: April 2017

Background/Aims: It has recently been shown that the neuronal sortilin-related receptor (SORL1) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: To investigate whether variations around the SORL1 gene are associated with AD, 7 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using TaqMan® technology with 180 AD patients and 130 age-matched controls. Results: Our results confirmed the strong linkage disequilibrium among the 7 SNPs studied. However, our study failed to detect any association between the SNPs and AD. We could not confirm any synergetic interaction between the SNPs and apolipoprotein E in our AD patients either. Conclusion: Further genetic studies are needed to clarify the relationship between the SORL1 gene and AD.
W-Plasty Technique in Tracheal Reconstruction: A New Technique?
Authors: Han S. , Han U. , Atinkaya C. , Cavusoglu T. , Osmanoglu G. , Dikmen E.
Published: April 2017

Background: Tracheal stenosis and dehiscence of anastomosis due to excessive tension are well-known problems after long-segment tracheal resections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the W-plasty technique to prevent these two complications. Methods: Animals were divided into a study and a control group. Each group consisted of 6 animals. In the control group, we performed a 5-cm tracheal segment resection, and then reconstruction was performed with an interrupted technique with 6/0 Prolene sutures. In the study group, we used the W-plasty technique with 6/0 Prolene interrupted sutures. The animals were sacrificed on the 30th day postoperatively and tracheal resection including the entire anastomosis site was performed. The traction and pullout test was applied to each specimen and all the specimens were analysed histopathologically. The intraluminal diameter and the thickness of the tracheal wall at the level of anastomoses were measured by using a micrometer. The pattern of the reaction and localization were recorded. Results: The traction and pullout test results were 131.6 ± 4.3 g and 187.5 ± 6.4 g in the control and the study group, respectively, which was a significant difference (p = 0.004). The intraluminal diameters were 3.3 ± 1.2 mm and 4.3 ± 0.9 mm in the control and study group, respectively (p = 0.134). In contrast to the control group, early inflammatory and late fibroblastic reactions were negative in the study group. Conclusion: Considering the outcomes of this study, we think that the W-plasty technique has much more advantages than the standard techniques in terms of anastomosis durability and development of stenosis.
Systemic and Local Cytokine Kinetics after Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Authors: Bastian D. , Tamburstuen M.V. , Lyngstadaas S.P. , Reikerås O.
Published: April 2017

Background: Trauma induces local and subsequent systemic inflammatory reactions. Aberrant reactions can lead to a systemic inflammatory response syndrome, with a potentially lethal outcome. Our aim was to investigate the early local cytokine kinetic compared to systemic changes in a standardized surgical trauma. Methods: In 7 patients with total hip replacement, drained blood samples and venous blood samples were taken 3 times within the first day after the operation. Interleukin (IL) release was assessed by a multiplex antibody bead kit and compared to pre-operative values. Results: The major findings were significant increases in systemic levels of IL-6 and in local levels of IL-6, IL-8 and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), and that the local levels of these cytokines were significantly higher than the systemic ones after surgery. Besides, there were only modest changes in local and systemic levels of tumour necrosis factor α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-2Ra, IL-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-15 and IL-17. Conclusions: The acute sterile inflammation after major orthopaedic surgery is principally characterized by significantly increased local and systemic levels of IL-6 and significantly increased local levels of IL-8 and IL-1Ra. Furthermore, the concentrations are higher at the local site of injury. Hence, we conclude that systemic cytokine levels might not reflect local reactions.
The Lymphatic System as Contributor of Plasminogen Activator to the Blood
Authors: Menon Sudhakaran , Weightman D. , Dewar H.A.
Published: April 2017

It is suggested that the lymphatic system through the chyle contributes plasminogen activators to the circulating blood.
Choice of Sclerosant: An Experimental Study
Authors: Blenkinsopp W.K.
Published: April 2017

The sclerosant hydroxypolyethoxydodecan (HPD) was studied in rats, and the results were compared with those from a previous study of tetradecyl sulphate of sodium (TSS). There appeared to be no significant difference between the two. The sclerosant efficiency increased with increasing concentration up to 6%, but a higher concentration than 6% is unlikely to be more effective in the rat or in man. In man, good results probably depend on exposure of the endothelium to sclerosant undiluted with blood for 1 s, and the total volume of 6% HPD or 6% TSS injected at one visit should not exceed 10 ml.
Effects of Serotonin and Angiotensin on Testicular Blood Vessels in the Rat
Authors: Kormano M.
Published: April 2017

The effect of serotonin and angiotensin on the testicular and epididymal blood vessels in the rat was demonstrated by in vivo angiography, using thorium dioxide as contrast substance. Doses of 10 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg serotonin caused vasoconstriction and temporary total occlusion of the testicular blood flow, respectively. Angiotensin caused only vasoconstriction and not total occlusion of the circulation. This experiment shows that serotonin is able to induce severe ischaemia in the rat testis.
Etude d’un modèle de rèpartition des débits dans le lit vasculaire
Authors: Lefort M. , Stoltz J.F. , Larcan A.
Published: April 2017

The authors try to precise the distribution of a Newtonian fluid at the level of a glass-tube bifurcation, a model grossly similar to blood vessel branches. Different types of bifurcations are obtained by means of translucent polyester resins. The length of the tubes is chosen in order not to alter the flow at the entrance and at the outlet (the length is approximately 90 times greater than the diameter). The fluid used is a mixture of water and glycerin; its viscosity is determined according to the temperature. The flow rates are measured by chronometry and the pressure with a pressure gauge made of capillary tubes. With certain hypotheses, the geometrical characteristics of the bifurcations permit the calculation of the induced charge losses; however, the shape of the area of influence and its evolution cannot be accurately precised.
Comparison Between Blood Fibrinolytic Activity in the Legs and Arms and its Possible Role in Phlebothrombosis
Authors: Menon Sudhakaran , Gibson A.L. , Weightman D. , Dewar H.A.
Published: April 2017

A significant increase of the fibrinolytic activity in the femoral vein blood after exercise of the legs has been observed. It is suggested that this increase is beneficial to the human organism from the point of view of practical therapeutics since fibrin clots oftener than platelet thrombi cause venous obstruction.The fibrinolytic activity was found to be lower in the blood obtained from the femoral vein in subjects confined to bed. It is tentatively suggested that this decrease may at least to some extent play a part in the increased incidence of phlebothrombosis in the lower limbs of patients who are bed-ridden.It is further suggested that the increase in the activator content in the blood after exercise of the leg is due to larger amounts of activator being contributed by the muscles during the accelerated bloodflow.
Radio-Fibrinogen Studies in Renal Hypertension
Authors: Wardle E.N.
Published: April 2017

The aorta of hypertensive rabbits has an increased content of water, sodium and fibrinogen. Fibrinogen catabolism is normal in most hypertensive animals and is, therefore, not a concomitant of increased vascular permeability but accelerated catabolism can be demonstrated when there is associated shock, red cell fragmentation due to DOCA angiopathy, hypertension in pregnancy, coincidental anoxia and acidosis, or in terminal uraemia. Under all these conditions, fibrin is deposited particularly in the kidney and may, therefore lead to further renal ischaemia.
Bestimmungen der unveresterten Fettsäuren im Blutserum bei chronischen arteriosklerotischen obliterierenden Gefässerkrankungen
Authors: Müller G.
Published: April 2017

For the free fatty acids in serum from normal adults was found a log-normal distribution. The free fatty acids were decreased by patients with chronic arteriosclerotic vascular diseases of the lower extremities.
Versuche in vitro über den Einfluss der Muskelkontraktion auf die Dynamik der Gefässwand
Authors: Hardung V. , Laszt L.
Published: April 2017

The present paper deals, firstly, with an in vitro determination of impedance of large sections of carotide arteries. These experiments were thought of as a complement to our earlier experiments on the living animal. Their results can also be explained by a diminished damping factor, when the vascular muscles are brought into a contracted state. In some further experiments, pressure alone was recorded; the vessel was connected to a pump with sinusoidal movement of its piston, as in the first series of experiments. If the pump is set in such a position that, at the beginning of its movement, the piston is near the entrance for the artery attached to it, and when the vessel is inactive, the pump will produce pressure waves whose maxima will coincide with the static pressure before the onset of pumping. On the other hand, if the vessel is brought to an excited state by application of histamine, the pressure maxima exceed the pressure at rest. We conclude, therefore, that an excited vessel will produce additional forces or tension when it is quickly stretched and will follow the stretch, even when the frequency of these stretches is as high as 1 to 4 cps.
Etude théorique et expérimentale du concept de zone d’influence à une bifurcation du lit vasculaire
Authors: Stoltz J.F. , Larcan A. , Lefort M. , Wackenheim E.
Published: April 2017

The distribution of flow rate in branching vessels remains one of the less studied problems of hemodynamics. In the present paper, the authors try to approach the problem by means of a three dimensioned model. They show that an approximation of the zone of influence by an arc of a circle is in good agreement with the experimental results.
SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) Studies of Aortic Structure
Authors: Chisolm G.M. , Gainer J.L. , Stoner G.E.
Published: April 2017

Scanning electron microscopy reveals the following features of the microstructure of the rabbit aorta: endothelial folds, including luminal and interior structure, connecting ‘bridges’ between the folds and concentric layers of membranes in the cross-section.
Dilator Responses of the Canine Hepatic Vasculature
Authors: Hanson K.M.
Published: April 2017

Experiments were performed on 70 isolated, in situ, autoperfused canine liver preparations. Hepatic artery and portal venous flows were measured by means of an electromagnetic blood flowmeter. Effects of papaverine, dibenzyline, dibenamine and propranolol on hepatic artery and intra-hepatic portal venous vascular resistance were observed. Also the effects of these drugs on certain local vasomotor responses of the hepatic arterial bed (reactive hyperemia, autoregulation and reciprocity response to shunting of portal inflow) were also studied. Inhibition of vasodilator responses by these drugs was largely related to the amount of reduction in basal vascular tone which they produced.
Intraarterielle Vasodilatantieninfusion und Ruhedurchblutung bei peripheren Angioorganopathien
Authors: Bartusch M. , Ridha G. , Mörl H. , Preuss E.-G.
Published: April 2017

32 patients with angiopathy received applications of intraarterial infusions with a vasodilatation mixture. This enabled us to demonstrate a close relationship between the degree of collateralization and inducible blood supply range. On several occasions we observed a local ‘borrowing-lending’ phenomenon, the origin of which seemed to be sufficiently evident as the pressure of the tissue was temporarily below the critical point. According to Fontaine, stages III and IV vasodilatation will not be successful in everycase in increasing the blood supply. Therefore, a positive effect for the further therapy has to be established plethysmographically.
Relation between Extracellular Potassium Ion Concentration and Contracture Force after Abolition of Spike Discharge in Isolated Rat Portal Vein
Authors: Uvelius Bengt , Johansson Börje
Published: April 2017

Spontaneous electrical and mechanical activity of isolated rat portal vein was abolished by cooling to 10°C as indicated by sucrose gap recordings. Graded increases in [K+]o at this temperature caused only transient propagated activity after which the muscle stabilized at constant membrane potentials and contracture tensions. Complete relaxation occurred on return to normal [K+]o. An S-shaped relation was found between log [K+]₀ and contracture force; the mechanical threshold corresponded to about 9 mM K+ and the maximal response was reached at 40-50 mM. Variations in [Ca2+]o from 0.4 to 12.5 mM did not appreciably affect the relative concentration-effect curve for K+. Thus a graded relation between depolarization and contractile force has been demonstrated in this normally spike-generating smooth muscle.
Vascular Resistance and Reactivity in Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Finch L. , Haeusler G.
Published: April 2017

Vascular resistance of the perfused whole body and isolated hindquarters was increased using preparations from renal, deoxycorticosterone/NaCl and genetic hypertensive rats. An increased reactivity to injected noradrenaline was observed in isolated perfused hindquarters from all three types of hypertensive rats. In depolarized mesenteric artery preparations, the calcium dose-response curves in preparations from normotensive and hypertensive rats were similar. The results point to structural changes of the blood vessels and a cellular hyperreactivity involving the process of excitation-contraction-coupling.
Effect of Tropolone on Vascular Sympathetic Neuroeffector Transmission
Authors: Schrold Jørgen , Nedergaard Ove A.
Published: April 2017

After a latency period the catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitor tropolone blocked increasingly the contractile response of rabbit isolated pulmonary artery elicited by electrical-field stimulation. Furthermore, tropolone contracted the artery. These inhibition effects were irreversible. In contrast, phentolamine caused a reversible equilibrium block with a rapid onset. Tropolone, which had been subjected to oxygenated physiological salt solution at 37 °C for a prolonged period, accelerated the development of neurogenic block compared to a freshly prepared solution of tropolone. This suggests that the blocking effect may in part be due to a break-down product of tropolone. Tropolone did not alter the electrical-field stimulation induced outflow of tritium from the pulmonary artery preloaded with 3H-noradrenaline. Initially, tropolone did not alter the cumulative concentration-contraction response curves of exogenous noradrenaline, acetylcholine and serotonin. However, after prolonged exposure of the pulmonary artery to tropolone, this agent inhibited the response elicited by these agonists in an apparent noncompetitive manner. The results suggest that tropolone exerts a direct blocking effect on vascular smooth muscle, which probably is neither mediated through adrenergic receptors nor due to its catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitory activity. The observed non-specific effects of tropolone must be taken into account when tropolone is employed as an enzyme inhibitor.
Differentiation of Calcium Activation Mechanisms in Vascular Smooth Muscle by Selective Suppression with Verapamil and D 600
Authors: Golenhofen K. , Hermstein N.
Published: April 2017

Mechanical activity of the isolated portal vein and thoracic aorta of the guinea-pig was recorded and the effects of verapamil and D 600 (methoxy-verapamü) on the dose-response curves to noradrenaline were measured. Extracellular electrical activity in portal vein was also sometimes recorded. Two calcium activation mechanisms could be differentiated: a ‘spike activation mechanism’ (SAM) inhibited by verapamil and D 600, and a ‘spike-free activation mechanism’ (SFAM) resistant to these antagonists in their specific concentration range (up to 10–5 mol/l). In portal vein, both mechanisms were similarly dependent on extracellular calcium, indicating a D 600-resistant system for transmembrane calcium fluxes. The response of portal vein to increased potassium concentration was also tested. Species differences and differences in the specificity of various calcium antagonistic drugs complicate the picture of calcium antagonism in vascular smooth muscle.
Uptake of 14C-Angiotensin by Canine Cutaneous Blood Vessels
Authors: Liao Ji-Chia , Sybertz Edmund J. , Zimmerman Ben G.
Published: April 2017

The uptake of 14C-angiotensin was studied in canine cutaneous blood vessels in vitro. T/M ratios of 14C were 0.4, 0.5, 0.8 and 1.5 after 7.5, 15, 30 and 60 min of incubation, respectively. The T/M of 14C-sorbitol, an extracellular marker, was 0.4. No difference in the T/M ratios of C14 was found between normal and chronically denervated vessels incubated with 14C-angiotensin; however, the uptake of 3H-norepinephrine was markedly decreased in the denervated preparation. The 14C taken up by the vessels after 30 min of incubation appeared to comprise both intact angiotensin and metabolites. These results suggest that a small quantity of intact angiotensin may be bound by vascular tissue, but is not concentrated in adrenergic nerve endings.
Treatment of Experimental Vasogenic Cerebral Edema with Benzopyrones
Authors: Földi-Börcsök Ethel , Földi M.
Published: April 2017

Vasogenic cerebral edema was induced in rabbits by cold injury. Benzopyrone treatment, started 15 min after freezing, significantly reduced both brain edema and the increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier. On the other hand benzopyrone-treatment was without any effect in cytotoxic brain edema induced in rats by triethyl tin poisoning.
Occurrence and Function of Cyclic Nucleotides in Blood Vessels
Authors: Namm Donald H. , Leader Joan P.
Published: April 2017

The literature concerned with studies of the occurrence and function of the cyclic nucleotides in blood vessels is reviewed. Emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of the evidence which relates to the hypothesis that cyclic nucleotides mediate the effects of drugs and neurotransmitters on vascular contractility. The hypothesis that cyclic AMP mediates vasodilation, especially that induced by β-adrenergic relaxation, is supported by many experimental approaches, but it is concluded that the evidence remains unconvincing based on the criteria established for such a mediator role. Possible sites of action of cyclic AMP are discussed. The demonstrated action of cyclic AMP on vascular membrane electrophysiology and calcium ion pumps are reviewed as possible causes of relaxation. The role of both nucleotides in vascular disease, especially hypertension is discussed. Finally the needs for further research in this area are suggested.
Reduction of 14C-Norepinephrine Metabolism in Rabbit Aorta by Vasodilators
Authors: Williams P.B. , Hudgins P.M.
Published: April 2017

In the present study, both of the major enzymes, monoamine oxidase and catechol-o-methyltransferase, involved in the degradation of norepinephrine were examined indirectly in segments of rabbit aorta by exposure of tissues to 14C-norepinephrine and subsequent isolation of metabolites from homogenates by chromatographic techniques. Segments of aorta were preincubated with vasodilators to examine their influence on accumulation and metabolism of 14C-noreρinephrine. The accumulation of labeled norepinephrine by aortae was enhanced after pre-incubation with hydrochlorothiazide or diazoxide, and reduced after preincubation with sodium nitroprusside or nitroglycerin. However, the fraction of accumulated 14C-norepinephrine which was degraded was significantly reduced after exposure to all four vasodilators. These results suggest that a decrease in degradation of norepinephrine in vascular smooth muscle can be observed (1) in vitro and (2) fairly rapidly after exposure to vasodilators.
Digital Artery Blood Flow and Digital Pad Opacity during Vasoconstriction
Authors: Davis Darrell L.
Published: April 2017

Digital artery blood flows were compared with digital pad opacity pulse amplitudes in dogs during vasoconstrictor responses. A high correlation between digital artery flow and opacity pulse amplitudes occurred during infusions of epinephrine and sciatic and tibial nerve stimulations, but not during superficial fibular nerve stimulation. The results confirmed earlier findings that tibial nerve stimulation produced predominantly precapillary constriction, and that superficial fibular nerve stimulation produced predominantly postcapillary constriction. Events in precapillary vessels appeared to be responsible for the opacity pulse. This fact probably forms the basis for the close relationship between opacity pulse amplitude and blood flow.
Stress Relaxation in Hog Carotid Artery as Related to Contractile Activity
Authors: Seidel C.L. , Murphy R.A.
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this work was to test the hypothesis that stress relaxation (SR) in vascular smooth muscle is related to the amount of contractile activity (developed stress) and perhaps a property of the contractile element (CE). Using medial-intimal strips from the hog carotid artery, a strain (Δ1/l₀, where l₀ equals optimal length for force development) of 2% was applied at two different rates in the presence of various levels of developed or passive stress. Developed stress was altered either by changing the extracellular K-ion concentration with the strip length equal to l₀ or by stimulating with a salt solution containing 30 mil KCl at various strip lengths. Passive stress was altered by varying strip length. At each level of developed or passive stress the magnitude of the increment in stress due to the strain (induced stress) and the SR were noted. SR varied directly with the magnitude of the developed stress, but there was a small and relatively unchanging amount of SR when passive stress was varied. At a given level of developed stress, the magnitude of SR was greater at a strain rate of 0.016 than at 0.001 l₀/sec. When developed stress was altered, the magnitude of SR was essentially equal to the amount of induced stress; however, when passive stress was varied, SR was always less than induced stress. These observations are consistent with the hypothesis that, in the presence of developed stress, a large fraction of the SR represents the lengthening of the CE. This increased CE length allows a reequilibration of stress between the series elastic element and the contractile element. In the absence of developed stress, SR may represent a passive, physical property of this heterogeneous tissue.
An Autoradiographic and Pathological Study of Cellular Proliferation in Rabbit Arteries Correlated with an Increase in Arterial Pressure
Authors: Bevan Rosemary D.
Published: April 2017

Following partial constriction of the abdominal aorta, the increase in arterial pressure in vessels proximal to the ligature at 3, 6, 14, 21 and 28 days was correlated with pathological changes and with proliferation of cells in the arterial wall measured by 3H-thymidine labeling indices and mitotic counts. The time course of arterial pressure rise and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation were similar. Patterns of proliferation of cells of the artery wall varied in distribution with time, the presence or absence of traumatic changes seen by light microscopy, and the histological structure of the vessel. Arteries not subject to hypertension did not differ from sham-operated animals.
Studies on Subcellular Fractions from Mesenteric Arteries of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: Alterations in Both Calcium Uptake and Enzyme Activities
Authors: Wei Jiann-Wu , Janis Ronald A. , Daniel Edwin E.
Published: April 2017

Calcium uptake and enzymatic activities were studied on plasma membrane-enriched and other subcellular fractions from mesenteric arteries of normotensive Wistar (NWR) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The specific activities of plasma membrane marker enzymes (5’-nucleotidase, phosphodiesterase I, leucine aminopeptidase, and ouabain-sensitive K+-activated phosphatase) were significantly greater in the plasma membrane-enriched fraction from arteries of hypertensive than in those from normotensive rats. Alkaline phosphatase and Mg++-ATPase exhibited increased activities in all subcellular fractions of arteries from SHR as compared to those from NWR. The maximum calcium uptake in the presence of 5 mM ATP and 17 µM free calcium by the plasma membrane fraction from SHR arteries was significantly greater than that from NWR arteries. In contrast, the maximum ATP-independent calcium uptake in the presence of 1 mM free calcium by the plasma membrane fraction from SHR arteries was significantly lower than that from NWR arteries. The ionophore-induced decrease in calcium uptake by these fractions was 1.5–2.5 times greater for SHR than for NWR arteries. The presence of changes in activities of enzymes believed to be involved in
Effect of Cold Storage on the Sensitivity of and Calcium Influx into Rat, Rabbit and Guinea Pig Portal Veins
Authors: Kaiman M. , Shibata S.
Published: April 2017

After cold storage treatment (5–7 days at 2 °C) the sensitivity to nor-epinephrine (NE) was increased in rabbit portal vein, decreased in rat portal vein and not altered in guinea pig portal vein. Cold storage decreased the sensitivity to methoxamine (ME), Ba++ and Ca++ in rat and guinea pig veins but not in rabbit veins and failed to alter the sensitivity to K+ in all veins tested. Cold storage increased 45Ca-influx while it reduced the NE content and 3H-NE uptake of all portal veins examined. NE and ME-induced 45Ca-influx was greater in cold-stored veins than in fresh veins from rabbit and guinea pig. K+ decreased 45Ca-influx in all cold-stored veins. These results indicate that cold storage induces a prejunctional supersensitivity in rabbit portal vein but not in guinea pig and rat portal veins. However, cold storage increased 45Ca-influx in all three veins.
Nature of the Calcium Regulatory System of Bovine Arterial Actomyosin
Authors: Litten, III R.Z. , Solaro John , Ford George D.
Published: April 2017

A calcium-sensitive actomyosin was prepared from bovine aortic muscularis. The results of applying filament displacement tests indicate that bovine arterial actomyosin possesses predominantly a calcium regulatory system associated with the myosin filament, but also may possess a calcium regulatory system associated with the actin filament. Calcium binding to highly purified myosin preparations could not account for the calcium binding to calcium-sensitive actomyosin. A calcium-insensitive actomyosin preparation, prepared by omitting dithiothreitol from the isolation procedure, showed a definite loss of tropomyosin but no change in calcium binding relative to the calcium-sensitive actomyosin.
Platelet Adherence in Endothelial Cell Cultures
Authors: Wechezak Arlene R. , Holbrook Karen A. , Way Susan A. , Mansfield Peter B.
Published: April 2017

Platelet adherence in bovine endothelial cultures was studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Following incubation with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet adherence to endothelial cell surfaces was rare as compared to similarly-tested fibroblasts which displayed numerous adherent platelets. When endothelial cells were induced to retract from their substrate by exposure to cold or versene and then incubated with PRP, platelets were observed adhering to endothelial cell processes and to an extracellular microfilamentous network, located beneath the cell. Platelets were attached singly, retained their discoidal shape, and showed no evidence of granule release. In contrast, microfilaments and adherent platelets were conspicuously absent in endothelial cultures which were retracted with trypsin or collagenase and incubated with PRP. These preliminary results suggest that the observed interaction between platelets and the subcellular surface of cultured endothelial cells is specific for an extracellular network of microfilaments produced by the cells.
Vascular Smooth Muscle Activity of 7-Oxa-13-Prostynoic Acid
Authors: Ozaki Nobuyuki , Kohli Jai D. , Goldberg Leon I. , Fried Josef
Published: April 2017

The effects of 7-oxa-13-prostynoic acid (7-OPA), alone and as an antagonist of PGE2 and PGF2α, were investigated in isolated rabbit aortic and canine renal arterial (diameter ∼0.5 mm) strips. 7-OPA caused contractions in both preparations; threshold concentrations were 3-to 10-fold higher than the PGs and maximum contraction was 50-60%. In concentrations of 10–5 M, 7-OPA inhibited contractions by PGF2α and PGE2. The same concentration of 7-OPA did not inhibit norepinephrine-induced contractions. These data indicate that 7-OPA is a partial agonist of PG receptors and produces its antagonism of PGE2 and PGF2α by that mechanism.
Kinetics of Alpha-Adrenoreceptor Blockade by Phentolamine in the Normal and Denervated Rabbit Aorta and Rat Vas Deferens
Authors: Ruffolo, jr. Robert R. , Patil Popat N.
Published: April 2017

The rates of onset and offset of α-adrenoreceptor blockade by phentolamine (5 × 10-7 M) have been studied on the normal and denervated rabbit aorta and rat vas deferens. Removal of the adventitia with its accompanying sympathetic nerve component results in an approximately threefold increase in the rate of onset of α-adrenoreceptor blockade by phentolamine in the rabbit aorta. The rate of offset of blockade by the antagonist on the aorta is likewise faster after the adventitia has been removed (approximately threefold faster for loss of 90% of the antagonist from the region of the receptors). This effect is not likely to be attributed to the absence of sympathetic nerve terminals since surgical denervation of the rat vas deferens has no effect on the kinetics of receptor blockade in this densely innervated organ. These data suggest that the adventitia of the rabbit aorta may serve as a diffusion barrier which limits the antagonist’s access to, and efflux from, the region of the receptors. The dissociation constant of phentolamine (calculated from the equilibrium dose ratio) on the α-adrenoreceptor is unaltered by denervation in either tissue and is identical in both tissues. It is suggested that α-adrenoreceptors in the rabbit aorta and rat vas deferens are of a single type and are not significantly affected, with respect to antagonist affinity, by denervation.
In vitro Relaxation of Arteries and Veins by Prazosin: Alpha-Adrenergic Blockade with No Direct Vasodilation
Authors: Cohen Marlene L. , Wiley Kathryn S. , Slater Irwin H.
Published: April 2017

Controversy exists regarding the mechanism by which prazosin lowers blood pressure without a marked increase in heart rate; a mechanism involving both sympatholytic activity and direct smooth muscle relaxation has been suggested. α-Adrenergic receptor blockade by prazosin is well documented and occurred to exogenous norepinephrine and to field stimulation in vitro in rat arteries and veins. A parallel shift of the norepinephrine concentration response curves in the aorta and mesenteric artery contrasted with a nonparallel shift and a marked depression of maximal norepinephrine responses in the inferior vena cava, portal, iliac and femoral veins. Nonspecific direct acting vasodilators will antagonize contractile responses to all agonists. However, prazosin (10–8 M) specifically antagonized norepinephrine-induced responses. Concentration response curves to potassium chloride or to serotonin were not affected in these rat tissues. In addition, prazosin (up to 10–6M) did not significantly relax aortic tissue previously contracted with potassium chloride or serotonin, whereas the vasodilator, nitroglycerin, produced a clear relaxation. Prazosin only reduced the tone of vessels contracted with norepinephrine. These data indicate that prazosin exhibits minimal, if any, direct smooth muscle relaxant properties in concentrations higher than those producing α-adrenergic receptor blockade, and relaxes rat veins by a mechanism involving α-adrenergic receptor blockade.
Paradoxical Relaxation of Arterial Strips Induced by Vasoconstrictive Agents
Authors: Ohhashi Toshio , Azuma Takehiko
Published: April 2017

Longitudinal strips isolated from canine distributing muscular arteries were relaxed by noradrenaline and contracted by papaverine. This paradoxical relaxation and contraction may be due to a helical and circular arrangement of smooth muscle in the wall which is incompressible. Various vasoconstrictive agents, including noradrenaline, produced a circumferential contraction and longitudinal relaxation in muscular arteries. Vasodilator agents produced the opposite effect. The direction and magnitude of response of a helical strip to a vasoactive substance depended upon its sectioning angle from the transverse axis of the vessel.