bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Clinical Results of Ab Interno Trabeculotomy Using the Trabectome with or without Cataract Surgery for Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients of High Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Akil Handan , Chopra Vikas , Huang Alex S. , Swamy Ramya , Francis Brian A.
Published: April 2017

Purpose. To assess the safety and efficacy of Trabectome procedure in patients with preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) of 30 mmHg or higher. Methods. All patients who had underwent Trabectome stand-alone or Trabectome combined with phacoemulsification were included. Survival analysis was performed by using Kaplan-Meier, and success was defined as IOP ≤ 21 mmHg, 20% or more IOP reduction from baseline for any two consecutive visits after 3 months, and no secondary glaucoma surgery. Results. A total of 49 cases were included with an average age of 66 (range: 13–91). 28 cases had Trabectome stand-alone and 21 cases had Trabectome combined with phacoemulsification. Mean IOP was reduced from a baseline of 35.6 ± 6.3 mmHg to 16.8 ± 3.8 mmHg at 12 months (p<0.01∗), while the number of medications was reduced from 3.1 ± 1.3 to 1.8 ± 1.4 (p<0.01∗). Survival rate at 12 months was 80%. 9 cases required secondary glaucoma surgery, and 1 case was reported with hypotony at day one, but resolved within one week. Conclusion. Trabectome seems to be safe and effective in patients with preoperative IOP of 30 mmHg or greater. Even in this cohort with high preoperative IOP, the end result is a mean IOP in the physiologic range.
Validation of the Decomposition Method for Fast MIMO Over-the-Air Measurements
Authors: Auinger Bernhard , Zemen Thomas , Gadringer Michael , Tankielun Adam , Gagern Christoph , Bösch Wolfgang
Published: April 2017

Over-the-air (OTA) throughput tests of wireless Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) devices are an important tool for network operators and manufacturers. The user equipment (UE) is placed in an anechoic chamber and a random fading process is emulated by a base-station emulator (BSE). The antenna characteristic of the UE is taken into account by sampling the sphere around the UE with the BSE test antenna at a large number of positions. For low-variance throughput results, long measurement intervals over many fading realizations are required, leading to long and expensive measurement periods in an anechoic chamber. To speed up the OTA test, we analyze the Decomposition Method (DM). The DM splits the throughput measurement into two parts: (1) a receiver algorithm performance tests taking the fading process into account and (2) an antenna performance test without fading process emulation. Both results are combined into a single throughput estimate. The DM allows for a measurement time reduction of more than one order of magnitude. We provide an analytic and numerical analysis as well as measurements. Our detailed results show the validity of the DM in all practical settings.
Activation of NOTCH Signaling by Tenascin-C Promotes Growth of Human Brain Tumor-Initiating Cells
Authors: Sarkar Susobhan , Mirzaei Reza , Zemp Franz J. , Wei Wu , Senger Donna L. , Robbins Stephen M. , Yong V. Wee
Published: April 2017

Oncogenic signaling by NOTCH is elevated in brain tumor-initiating cells (BTIC) in malignant glioma, but the mechanism of its activation is unknown. Here we provide evidence that tenascin-C (TNC), an extracellular matrix protein prominent in malignant glioma, increases NOTCH activity in BTIC to promote their growth. We demonstrate the proximal localization of TNC and BTIC in human glioblastoma specimens and in orthotopic murine xenografts of human BTIC implanted intracranially. In tissue culture, TNC was superior amongst several extracellular matrix proteins in enhancing the sphere-forming capacity of glioma patient-derived BTIC. Exogenously applied or autocrine TNC increased BTIC growth through an α2β1 integrin-mediated mechanism that elevated NOTCH ligand Jagged1 (JAG1). Microarray analyses and confirmatory PCR and Western analyses in BTIC determined that NOTCH signaling components including JAG1, ADAMTS15, and NICD1/2 were elevated in BITC after TNC exposure. Inhibition of γ-secretase and metalloproteinase proteolysis in the NOTCH pathway, or silencing of α2β1 integrin or JAG1, reduced the proliferative effect of TNC on BTIC. Collectively, our findings identified TNC as a pivotal initiator of elevated NOTCH signaling in BTIC and define the establishment of a TN-α2β1-JAG1-NOTCH signaling axis as a candidate therapeutic target in glioma patients. Cancer Res; 77(12); 3231–43. ©2017 AACR.
NRF2 Induction Supporting Breast Cancer Cell Survival Is Enabled by Oxidative Stress–Induced DPP3–KEAP1 Interaction
Authors: Lu Kevin , Alcivar Allen L. , Ma Jianglin , Foo Tzeh Keong , Zywea Susan , Mahdi Amar , Huo Yanying , Kensler Thomas W. , Gatza Michael L. , Xia Bing
Published: April 2017

NRF2 is a transcription factor serving as a master regulator of the expression of many genes involved in cellular responses to oxidative and other stresses. In the absence of stress, NRF2 is constantly synthesized but maintained at low levels as it is targeted by KEAP1 for ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation. NRF2 binds KEAP1 mainly through a conserved “ETGE” motif that has also been found in several other proteins, such as DPP3, which has been shown to bind KEAP1 and enhance NRF2 function upon overexpression. Here we demonstrate the interaction between endogenous DPP3 and endogenous KEAP1. We further show that the DPP3–KEAP1 interaction is strongly induced by hydrogen peroxide and that DPP3 is required for timely NRF2 induction and nuclear accumulation in the estrogen receptor (ER)-positive MCF7 breast cancer cells. Moreover, we present evidence that the binding of DPP3 to KEAP1 stabilizes the latter. Finally, we show that DPP3 is overexpressed in breast cancer and that elevated levels of DPP3 mRNA correlate with increased NRF2 downstream gene expression and poor prognosis, particularly for ER-positive breast cancer. Our studies reveal novel insights into the regulation of NRF2 and identify DPP3 and an NRF2 transcriptional signature as potential biomarkers for breast cancer prognosis and treatment. Cancer Res; 77(11); 2881–92. ©2017 AACR.
Targeting Autocrine CCL5–CCR5 Axis Reprograms Immunosuppressive Myeloid Cells and Reinvigorates Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Ban Yi , Mai Junhua , Li Xin , Mitchell-Flack Marisa , Zhang Tuo , Zhang Lixing , Chouchane Lotfi , Ferrari Mauro , Shen Haifa , Ma Xiaojing
Published: April 2017

The tumor-promoting potential of CCL5 has been proposed but remains poorly understood. We demonstrate here that an autocrine CCL5–CCR5 axis is a major regulator of immunosuppressive myeloid cells (IMC) of both monocytic and granulocytic lineages. The absence of the autocrine CCL5 abrogated the generation of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells and tumor-associated macrophages. In parallel, enhanced maturation of intratumoral neutrophils and macrophages occurred in spite of tumor-derived CCL5. The refractory nature of ccl5-null myeloid precursors to tumor-derived CCL5 was attributable to their persistent lack of membrane-bound CCR5. The changes in the ccl5-null myeloid compartment subsequently resulted in increased tumor-infiltrating cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and decreased regulatory T cells in tumor-draining lymph nodes. An analysis of human triple-negative breast cancer specimens demonstrated an inverse correlation between "immune CCR5" levels and the maturation status of tumor-infiltrating neutrophils as well as 5-year-survival rates. Targeting the host CCL5 in bone marrow via nanoparticle-delivered expression silencing, in combination with the CCR5 inhibitor Maraviroc, resulted in strong reductions of IMC and robust antitumor immunities. Our study suggests that the myeloid CCL5–CCR5 axis is an excellent target for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Res; 77(11); 2857–68. ©2017 AACR.
Clinical Questions Asked by Medical Students: A Learning Tool for Dermatology Rotations
Authors: Collier A.P. , Heilig L.F. , Schilling L.M. , Dellavalle R.P.
Published: April 2017

Background/Aims: To determine whether having medical students answer self-generated patient-specific questions in a clinical setting promotes learning. Methods: Medical students rotating through dermatology clinics at the Denver Veterans’ Affairs (VA) Medical Center were asked to formulate and answer one clinical question arising during patient encounters, and to complete a survey regarding their findings and experience. Results: 49% (44/89) of rotating medical students completed the exercise. Self-generated questions frequently addressed therapy (61%, 27/44), prognosis (13%, 6/44), etiology/risk factors (7%, 3/44), and harm (5%, 2/44). The most frequently used sources of clinical information were journal abstracts/articles (55%, 24/44), UpToDate (50%, 22/44), websites (27%, 12/44) and printed textbooks (25%, 11/44). Medical students rated the impact of answers they obtained on a Likert scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) for the following: can be used to assist in patient’s care (mean 4.1), improved care (mean 3.7), improved communication (mean 4.4), improved confidence in care (mean 4.2), improved knowledge (mean 4.6), and will improve future care (mean 4.5). Conclusions: Medical students report increased knowledge, confidence and patient care skills after completing a self-directed formal exercise consisting of formulating and answering a patient-specific clinical question.
Preliminary Experiences with Bio-Alcamid in HIV Facial Lipoatrophy
Authors: Ramon Yitzhack , Fodor Lucian , Ullmann Yehuda
Published: April 2017

Background: Highly active antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected patients causes metabolic changes known as the lipodystrophy syndrome. Autologous fat injections, dermal fat grafts, malar implants and injected fillers have been reported as treatment options. Objective: To evaluate the results of HIV-infected patients treated with Bio-Alcamid for facial lipoatrophy. Methods and Materials: Over a 3-year period, 13 HIV-infected patients with facial lipoatrophy had Bio-Alcamid injections for aesthetic purposes. The procedure was done under local anesthesia, and the amount of the injected material varied from 5 to 13 ml. Results were independently evaluated by patients and physicians. Results: Most of the patients felt they had good to excellent results. Touch-ups were necessary for 2 patients; the added volume was 2–3 ml for each. No major complications were recorded. A small hematoma was noted in 1 patient. Overcorrection was attained in 2 cases, and some of the filler was removed at the patient’s request. Conclusion: One of the greatest advantages of this filler is that, although permanent, it can be removed easily. We consider Bio-Alcamid to be a safe and useful correcting tool for patients suffering from drug-induced facial lipoatrophy.
The Efficacy and Safety of Topically Applied Indigo Naturalis Ointment in Patients with Plaque-Type Psoriasis
Authors: Lin Yin-Ku , Wong Wen-Rou , Chang Ya-Ching , Chang Chee-Jen , Tsay Pei-Kwei , Chang Shu-Chen , Pang Jong-Hwei Su
Published: April 2017

Background: It has been reported in the Chinese literature that indigo naturalis exhibits potential antipsoriatic effects in systemic therapy. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topically applied indigo naturalis on treating plaque-type psoriasis and to analyze the histological change in skin tissues. Methods: Fourteen patients with chronic plaque psoriasis were enrolled. The patients were topically applied with either indigo naturalis ointment or vehicle ointment on contralateral skin lesions daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated on the basis of the clinical scores, including induration, scaling, erythema and clearing percentage. At the end of treatment, skin punch biopsies were taken and prepared for the immunohistochemical analysis. Results: A significant reduction in clinical scores was achieved with topically applied indigo naturalis ointment. Analysis of biopsies showed a marked improvement of skin histology. The expressions of proliferating marker Ki-67 and inflammatory marker CD3 were decreased, but the differentiation marker such as filaggrin was increased in the epidermis after indigo naturalis ointment treatment. Conclusions: The results suggest that topical application of indigo naturalis ointment may be a novel, safe and effective therapy for psoriasis that is mediated, at least in part, by modulating the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes in epidermis, as well as by inhibiting the infiltration of T lymphocytes and therefore the subsequent inflammatory reactions in psoriatic lesions.
A Pilot Study on Seborrheic Dermatitis Using Pramiconazole as a Potent Oral Anti-Malassezia Agent
Authors: Piérard Gérald E. , Ausma Jannie , Henry Frédérique , Vroome Valérie , Wouters Luc , Borgers Marcel , Cauwenbergh Geert , Piérard-Franchimont Claudine
Published: April 2017

Background: Seborrheic dermatitis is considered to be a Malassezia-driven disease. Little objective information is available so far from biometrological quantitative assessments of this skin condition. Pramiconazole is a novel triazole with potent in vitro antifungal activity, especially against Malassezia spp. Objective: To study the sequential effects of pramiconazole on Malassezia, inflammation and epidermal changes. Method:This study was performed in 2 groups of subjects suffering from seborrheic dermatitis. The first group (n = 17) remained untreated and was used as control. Clinical, mycological and biometrological assessments were performed at inclusion and during the following 2 weeks. The second group of subjects (n = 10) received a single 200-mg oral dose of pramiconazole at inclusion. Clinical, mycological and biometrological evaluations were performed before and during 1 month following the single antifungal intake. For both parts of the study, several parameters were assessed including yeast density, desquamation, erythema, itching and sebum excretion. Results: In the control group, no significant changes were observed in any of the parameters during the observation period. The findings were markedly different in the pramiconazole-treated subjects. The yeast density was significantly improved on days 3, 7 and 28. Desquamation, erythema, itching, and the global clinical evaluation as assessed by the patients and investigators became significantly improved on days 7 and 28. A trend in decrease of scaliness was noted. No effect on sebum excretion was evidenced. In conclusion, a single 200-mg dose of pramiconazole exhibitsin vivo efficacy in controlling some important clinical aspects of seborrheic dermatitis. Following a reduction in the number of yeasts on day 3, a decrease in the severity of clinical signs and symptoms occurred from day 7 onwards. Sebum excretion appeared uninvolved in the clearing process of seborrheic dermatitis. Conclusion: A single 200-mg dose of pramiconazole appears to abate seborrheic dermatitis. The density in Malassezia present on lesional skin is first decreased, followed by clearing of the clinical signs.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of First-Line Chemotherapies in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Borget Isabelle , Aupérin Anne , Pignon Jean-Pierre , Abbas Moncef , Bouché Olivier , Mousseau Mireille , Raoul Jean-Luc , Bedenne Laurent , Cassan Philippe , Clavero-Fabri Marie-Christine , Stremsdoerfer Noël , Nasca Salvador , Queuniet Anne-Marie , Ducreux Michel
Published: April 2017

Background: The De Gramont regimen (or high-dose LV5FU2, HD-LV5FU2) is considered a standard treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and the costs of three regimens as compared to HD-LV5FU2: raltitrexed (R), LV5FU2 with a lower dose of folinic acid (LD-LV5FU2), and weekly infusional 5FU (WI-FU). Methods: An economic analysis was performed prospectively as part of a randomized trial comparing first-line chemotherapy regimens in 294 patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer. The primary endpoint was event-free survival (EFS). Direct medical costs were computed from the health system viewpoint using 2001 unit costs. Results: None of the three regimens improved EFS as compared to HD-LV5FU2. R was less effective and more toxic. The mean total cost per patient was € 15,970 for HD-LV5FU2. The cost of R (€ 10,687) was lower than that of HD-LV5FU2 (p = 0.008). The cost of LD-LV5FU2 (€ 14,888) and of WI-FU (€ 13,760) was not significantly different from that of HD-LV5FU2. Conclusion: The lower efficacy and increased toxicity of R made it a clinically inferior regimen despite its easy administration and lower cost. The HD-LV5FU2 protocol remains a better treatment. LD-LV5FU2 appeared a good alternative regimen because it reduced costs without jeopardizing its efficacy. The WI-FU regimen did not show a significant difference in terms of efficacy, but suggested toxicity to be slightly increased.
Childhood Eating and Weight in Eating Disorders: A Multi-Centre European Study of Affected Women and Their Unaffected Sisters
Authors: Micali N. , Holliday J. , Karwautz A. , Haidvogl M. , Wagner G. , Fernandez-Aranda F. , Badia A. , Gimenez L. , Solano R. , Brecelj-Anderluh M. , Mohan R. , Collier D. , Treasure J.L.
Published: April 2017

Background: Previous studies have suggested that childhood eating and weight problems may be risk factors for eating disorders. Robust evidence is still lacking. Aims: To investigate whether childhood eating and weight problems increase the risk of eating disorders in affected women compared to their unaffected sisters. Methods: Women (150) with anorexia (AN) or bulimia nervosa (BN) recruited from clinical and community samples were compared to their unaffected sister closest in age on maternal reports of childhood eating and weight. Results: Women with BN were significantly more overweight at the ages of 5 and 10 (both OR = 2.8, p < 0.01), ate a lot (OR = 1.3, p < 0.01), were less picky (OR = 0.6, p < 0.05) and ate quickly (OR = 2.3, p < 0.05) between the ages of 6 and 10 compared to their healthy sisters. Significantly more women with AN were described as having a higher weight at 6 months (OR = 0.8, p < 0.01) and 1 year (OR = 0.6, p < 0.01) compared to their healthy sisters. Childhood eating was comparable in the women with AN and their unaffected sisters. Conclusions: Traits of childhood overeating were more common in bulimic women compared to their unaffected siblings. Subjects with AN did not differ from their sisters on eating variables. The increased risk of BN due to childhood overweight suggests that prevention strategies for childhood obesity and overweight may therefore be applicable in BN.
Healthy Choices through Family History: A Community Approach to Family History Awareness
Authors: Petruccio Claudia , Mills Shaw Kenna R. , Boughman Joann , Fernandez Carlos , Harlow Ilana , Kruesi Margaret , Kyler Penny , Lloyd-Puryear Michele A. , O’Leary James , Skillman Amy , Terry Sharon , McKain Fredrika
Published: April 2017

Background: The importance of family health history data in health care is widely acknowledged. Few individuals report having collected this information from their own family. Methods: This project implemented a community-based approach to design and pilot a linguistically and culturally appropriate family health history collection toolkit for two minority populations in Harrisburg, Pa. Results: The toolkit relied on oral traditions and family stories as a way to successfully introduce genetics education and family health history to these populations. Participants not only found the tool engaging and culturally appropriate, they were also able to obtain information that they were likely to share with their physician. Conclusion: While limited in scope, this project provides a model to other communities for the design, pilot testing, and implementation of a community-based public health initiative regarding family health histories.
Steroid Protection in the Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Garay Laura , Gonzalez Deniselle Maria Claudia , Gierman Lobke , Meyer Maria , Lima Analia , Roig Paulina , De Nicola Alejandro F.
Published: April 2017

Objectives: Based on evidence that pregnant women with multiple sclerosis (MS) show a decline in the relapse rate during the third trimester and an increase during the first 3 months postpartum, the suggestion was made that high levels of circulating sex steroids are responsible for pregnancy-mediated neuroprotection. As both estradiol (E2) and progesterone exert neuroprotective and myelinating effects on the nervous system, the effects of sex steroids were studied in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS. Methods: EAE was induced in female C57BL/6 mice by administration of a myelin oligodendrocyte protein (MOG40–45) peptide. Clinical signs of EAE, myelin protein expression and neuronal parameters were determined in mice with or without hormonal treatment. Results: Progesterone given prior to EAE induction attenuated the clinical scores of the disease, slightly delayed disease onset and decreased demyelination foci, according to luxol fast blue staining (LFB), myelin basic protein (MBP) and proteolipid protein (PLP) and mRNA expression. Motoneuron expression of Na,K-ATPase mRNA was also enhanced by progesterone. In turn, combined E2 plus progesterone therapy more effectively prevented neurological deficits, fully restored LFB staining, MBP and PLP immunoreactivity and avoided inflammatory cell infiltration. On the neuronal side, steroid biotherapy increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA. Conclusion: Early treatment with progesterone alone or more evidently in combination with E2 showed a clinical benefit and produced myelinating and neuroprotective effects in mice with MOG40–45-induced EAE. Therefore, sex steroids should be considered as potential novel therapeutic strategies for MS.
ß-lnterferon Treatment of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Multicenter Clinical Trial
Authors: Rotola A. , Costa S. , Di Luca D. , Stefanon B. , Villani C. , Micheletti L. , Montemagno U. , Bolis P.F. , Cassai E.
Published: April 2017

Forty-nine women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade II were treated with systemic and/or local Β-interferon (Β-IFN) applications. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of different routes for the administration of Β-IFN, evaluate local and systemic Β-IFN tolerance, and determine whether disappearance of neoplastic lesions was related to the resolution of the concomitant human papillomavirus infection. The patients were randomized to receive intramuscular, intralesional or a combination of intramuscular and intralesional administration, or conventional treatment. Significant differences in the rate of lesion regression were observed between treated and untreated women. The highest fequency of complete response was observed with the therapy combining intramuscular and intralesional treatment.
Contrasting Chimpanzees and Bonobos: Nearest Neighbor Distances and Choices
Authors: White Frances J. , Chapman Colin A.
Published: April 2017

In an effort to understand factors underlying differences in the social organization of Pan troglodytes and P. paniscus, we measured the nearest neighbor distances and choices for chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, Uganda, and for bonobos in Lomako Forest, Zaire. We assume that the spatial organization of a set of individuals should reflect the underlying relationships between them. Bonobos were found to have smaller nearest neighbor distances than chimpanzees. The distribution and variability of the distances suggested that chimpanzees have a more restricted range of nearest neighbor distances than bonobos, avoiding situations of very close proximity. Selection of the sex of the nearest neighbor by a focal animal differed between the species. For example, male bonobos rarely had another male as their nearest neighbor, while male chimpanzees frequently did. Similarly, male bonobos tended to move apart when observed together, while it was female chimpanzees who tended to move apart when together. These observations are considered with respect to the nature of the social interactions in these species.
Intestinal Vascular Responses to Gut Pressure and Acetylcholine in vitro
Authors: Brobmann G.F. , Jacobson E.D. , Brecher G.A.
Published: April 2017

Active and passive elevation of intraluminal pressure in the denervated gut was studied to determine the effect on blood flow. In an in vitro preparation of canine intestinal segments, the vessels were perfused with donor blood from a reservoir. Blood flow increased with acetylcholine and decreased with elevated gut pressure whether induced actively or passively. Rhythmical alterations of intraluminal pressure passively did not increase blood flow by a ‘massage effect’ over that existing at a corresponding constant mean pressure. With each rhythmical pressure rise arterial inflow waned and venous outflow waxed, whereas the reverse occurred with each pressure drop. Loss of vascular and visceral tonus by poisoning the tissue with sodium azide resulted in a marked increase in blood flow. Stepwise pressure elevations in the lumen of the poisoned gut counteracted the flow systematically. It is concluded that resistance to intestinal blood flow is consistently raised by active as well as passive gut pressure elevations, and that the vasodilation induced by acetylcholine is opposed by these mechanical effects to varying degrees.
Extension of Small-Strain Theory to Finite Deformation of Cylindrical Vessels by Internal Over-Pressure
Authors: Hildebrandt J.
Published: April 2017

Calculations of the pressure distention of closed cylindrical vessels using classical infinitesimal-strain theory predict that, for isotropic materials, the length remains fixed while the diameter increases linearly with pressure. These predictions can be verified experimentally only if the radial deformation is less than 2–3%. This paper develops formulae applicable to deformations up to approximately 10 times the above, based on a modification of infinitesimal theory. The results predict significant lengthening of isotropic vessels, and ballooning or ‘blow-out’ above a certain pressure. It is shown that the classical stresses contain a common hydrostatic component which must be subtracted before the stresses can be integrated across the wall thickness to yield wall tensions. When the hydrostatic component is taken into account, Laplace’s law is found to hold for thick-walled vessels as well as for thin-walled vessels.
Effect of the Partial Constriction of Portal Vein on Renal Hypertension in the Rat
Authors: Sonkodi S. , Perényi L. , Zoltán Ö.T.
Published: April 2017

Partial constriction of the portal vein in the rat impedes the development of renal hypertension, or decreases the already developed hypertension, respectively. Taking into consideration the fact that this effect could be observed also in that experimental form (left kidney clipped, the opposite one removed) in which the renin content of the clipped kidney and the increase of plasma renin activity could never be demonstrated – and even in the other experimental form (left kidney clipped, the opposite one untouched)- the protective effect was only present when the above-mentioned increase of renin level was already normalized: it seems that the protective effect of partial constriction of the portal vein does not take place due to the possible hepatic damage leading to an angiotensinogen production in a lower degree.
Haemodynamic Changes of Systemic and Limb Circulation in Extremital Arteriovenous Fistula
Authors: Solti F. , Soltész L. , Bodor E.
Published: April 2017

The regulation of limb and systemic blood circulation was studied in 12 extensive lower extremital and 8 extensive upper extremital arteriovenous shunts. The limb blood flow was determined by the venous isotope dilution method. The cardiac output and the mean transit time were measured by the dye dilution method. Measurements to determine the limb blood flow were made on the side of the arteriovenous shunt as well as on the contralateral (healthy) side. The results of the measurements were compared with the data of patients having an intact circulation. According to these investigations, the limb blood flow nearly triples the normal value under the influence of extremital arteriovenous fistula. Nevertheless, the limb blood flow of the contralateral (healthy) extremity is also in a small degree – but significantly – higher than the normal flow. According to the arteriovenous fistula, the extremital cardiac output fraction is higher than the normal value, while, in the same time, in the healthy, contralateral extremity it is smaller. The arteriovenous oxygen difference in arteriovenous fistula is pathologically low, while the total oxygen uptake of extremital tissues is normal. The blood circulation assumes a hyperkinetic character under the influence of arteriovenous shunt: the cardiac output increases, the velocity of circulation accelerates, the total systemic vascular resistance diminishes. Following the operative elimination or ceasing of the arteriovenous shunt, the changes of circulation mostly regress. According to the calculations made by the authors, the blood flow perfusing through the fistula in an extensive arteriovenous shunt might have been some liters per minute.
Transient Rheoangiographic Changes in the Forearms in Attacks of Anginal Pain
Authors: Karnafel W.
Published: April 2017

The behavior of the relative pulse volume in the forearm during attacks of coronary pain was examined in 10 cases.During coronary pain, the relative pulse volume in the left forearm was significantly reduced. After subsidence of pain, the relative pulse volume returned to normal. These observations seemto indicate that the pathogenesis of pain in the upper left extremity is related toreduced blood flow in this limb.
Pressure-Volume Characteristics of Foot Veins in Normal Cases and Patients with Venous Insufficiency
Authors: Norgren Lars , Thulesius Olav
Published: April 2017

In order to evaluate pressure-volume characteristics of foot veins in patients with venous insufficiency compared with a control group, the foot-volumetric method was utilized, combined with intravenous pressure measurements. Calculations of compliance and elastance were performed within a fixed pressure interval, where the veins were filled or almost filled. The investigation demonstrates a lower compliance and a higher elastance in the varicose veins compared with the control cases. This is contrary to most previous investigations, in which the veins have not been fully distended, as the measurements were performed in the lying position with rather low venous pressure. Changes of compliance and elastance were most marked in cases with advanced venous disease and skin changes of the ankle region. The observed changes of a ‘greater stiffness’ of the foot-vascular system can be explained by fibrotic or phlebosclerotic changes. In addition to the observations of slightly altered elasticity factors, we observed volume changes after exercise which seem to be related to capillary filtration.
Biomechanics of a Lymphatic Vessel
Authors: Reddy Narender P. , Krouskop Thomas A. , Newell, jr. Paul H.
Published: April 2017

The principles of mechanics and the current notions of lymphatic physiology are integrated into a simple mathematical model of a lymphatic vessel which establishes a theoretical base for lymph propulsion in the lymphatic system. The model specifically considers the active and passive contractilities of the lymphatics. The model is simulated on a digital computer. The pressure and flow patterns derived from the model are consistent with the currently available experimental data.
Calcium Flux and Binding in the Aortic Smooth Muscle from the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
Authors: Shibata S. , Kuchii M. , Taniguchi T.
Published: April 2017

There was no significant difference in the tissue calcium content between spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) and normotensive rat aortae. 45Ca uptake was significantly greater, whereas 45Ca influx was significantly less in SHR than in control aortae. There was no difference in 45Ca efflux in SHR and control tissues. 45Ca influx in both SHR and control tissues was increased by potassium, not increased by norepinephrine and inhibited by Co:+, Mn++ and La+++ (all 0.5 mM). Both SHR and control aortae were equally inhibited by Mn++ and Co++ (0.1 mM). There was no difference in the 45Ca uptake by microsome fraction from both SHR and control tissue. These data indicate some differences in the translocation of Ca++ at the cellular level in SHR and control aortae.
Contractile System Function in Mammalian Smooth Muscle
Authors: Murphy R.A.
Published: April 2017

The literature on the classical mechanical properties of geometrically simple mammalian smooth muscle preparations is analyzed in an attempt to characterize the contractile system. Although the physiological behavior of smooth muscle is diverse, indices of contractile system function suggest there is considerable uniformity at this level. Compared to vertebrate striated muscles, smooth muscle tissues and possibly individual cells (i) often develop equal or greater maximum isometric force/cell cross-sectional area, with (ii) low and fairly uniform maximum shortening velocities, and (iii) operate over a range of lengths which may be no greater than the potential in striated muscle. Few details are known of filament structure, organization, interactions, and of force transmission in comparison with the extensive information on the contractile unit (sarcomere) for striated muscle. Consequently, tissue or cellular mechanical parameters may not be directly proportional to the output of the myofilamental contractile unit in smooth muscle. A sliding filament mechanism involving actin-myosin interactions qualitatively similar to those in striated muscle seems probable. However, there are important quantitative differences in the contractile apparatus which may be related to functional properties.
Action of Deoxycorticosterone Acetate on the Central Artery of the Rabbit Ear
Authors: Johnson Stephen M. , de la Lande Ivan S.
Published: April 2017

An inhibitor of extraneuronal uptake, deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA), increased the sensitivities of the rabbit ear artery to extraluminal and to intraluminal epinephrine, each approximately threefold. The effect on extraluminal epinephrine was increased in cocaine-treated or chronic sympathetic denervated arteries. That the sensitising actions of DOCA were due to inhibition of extraneuronal uptake was suggested (1) by the relative magnitudes of its sensitising effects on the three amines [in decreasing order, epinephrine > isoprenaline (β-stimulation) > norepinephrine] and (2) by its ability to prevent the potentiation of epinephrine by normetanephrine. That the uptake system was readily saturated was suggested by the observations that the sensitising actions of DOCA were decreased by procedures which decreased the potencies of epinephrine and isoprenaline, namely, phentolamine, and doses of isoprenaline eliciting constriction via α-stimulation, respectively.
Effect of Hormones on the Glycosaminoglycan Content of Canine Renal Arteries
Authors: Sirek Otakar V. , Sirek Anna , Cukerman Eva
Published: April 2017

The effect of hypophysectomy and replacement therapy with individual hormones such as somatotropin, cortisone, estradiol, progesterone and testosterone on the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) composition of renal arteries was studied in young beagles. The renals from normal animals showed a uniformly low total GAG content of about two thirds of the value found for aorta and coronary arteries. Neither hypophysectomy nor hormone replacement altered the GAG content, with the exception of estradiol which showed a marked effect by raising the hyaluronic acid content to nearly double the normal value. These results by being at variance with those obtained for aorta and coronary arteries provide further evidence of the differential hormone sensitivity that exists in the various segments of the canine arterial tree with respect to GAG metabolism.
Sodium in Blood Vessels
Authors: Friedman Sydney M.
Published: April 2017

Extracellular Na can be accurately partitioned into free and bound components; the latter component is directly related to the hydration and stiffness of the vascular wall. Cell Na can be similarly partitioned: [Na+]i is about 10 mM and the transmembrane gradient about 15:1 in a physiological medium. The transmembrane gradient remains constant over a wide range of change in [Na+]₀· Although active Na transport is largely responsible for developing the transmembrane ion distribution pattern, the membrane potential depends mainly on movements of K+ and Cl-No certain direct role can be assigned to Na+ in short-term vasoconstriction, but an indirect role through the regulation of catecholamine release and uptake is now established. There is evidence that the entry of Na+ into cells plays a fundamental role in the protein-synthesizing activity of the vascular smooth muscle cell and is thereby involved in the longer term determination of peripheral vascular resistance.
Orientation of Nuclei as Indicators of Smooth Muscle Cell Alignment in the Cerebral Artery
Authors: Walmsley James G. , Canham Peter B.
Published: April 2017

Geometric measurements were made of the nuclei of the muscle cells of the tunica media of human intracranial arteries. The nuclei measured 37 ± (SD) 6.4 µm in length, and 2.0 ± (SD) 0.83 µm average width and have a number density of 105 nuclei/mm3 (number per unit volume of tunica media). From the work of others it was known that the nuclei are centrally located within the cytoplasm of the muscle cell; because of this we have used the nuclei as indicators of alignment of the muscle cells themselves, making measurements from light micrographs of arterial sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin. On average, the nuclei were oriented at an angle that was not significantly different from a zero-degree pitch for the five sections analyzed in detail.
Interaction between Neuronal Amine Uptake and Prejunctional Alpha-Adrenergic Receptor Activation in Smooth Muscle from Canine Blood Vessels and Spleen
Authors: Lorenz Robert R. , Vanhoutte Paul M. , Shepherd John T.
Published: April 2017

Experiments were performed to determine the conditions in which norepinephrine release from adrenergic nerve terminals in smooth muscle from canine blood vessels and spleen might be inhibited by prejunctional α-adrenergic receptor activation. Strips of aorta, mesenteric and splenic arteries, splenic capsule and portal and saphenous veins were labeled with 7-3H-norepinephrine and mounted for superfusion. In the portal vein, an inhibitory effect of prejunctional receptor activation with exogenous norepinephrine (1.2 × 10–6 M) on transmitter efflux could be demonstrated during electrical stimulation (9 V, 2 Hz) of the nerve terminals. By contrast, in the other tissues, inhibition of transmitter release during electrical stimulation or depolarization of the nerve terminals with K+ (40 mEq/l) could only be demonstrated after blockade of the neuronal uptake mechanism. That activation of prejunctional α-adrenergic receptors in blood vessels inhibits the exocytotic process is suggested by the failure of exogenous norepinephrine to affect either the basal efflux of 3H-norepinephrine or the displacement of 3H-norepinephrine by tyramine.
Angiotensin Induction of Active Responses in Cultured Reaggregates of Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Zelcer Elane , Sperelakis Nick
Published: April 2017

Electrical activity was studied in cultured reaggregates of vascular smooth muscle cells prepared from the aortas of normotensive (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats. There were no significant differences between the resting membrane potentials of WKY (–44.7 ± 0.5 mV) and SHR (–45.6 ± 0.5 mV) reaggregates. Electrical field stimulation elicited active responses that consisted of two components: an initial spike component (amplitude, 30–40 mV; +Vmax 1–3 V/s) and a plateau component (amplitude, 10–30 mV; duration 3–5 s; +Vmax, 0.1–0.3 V/s). Often the spike component was absent. Both components of the response were abolished by verapamil, Mn++, and Na+-free solutions indicating that Na+ and Ca++ currents may be associated with them. Addition of 10 mM TEA increased the duration of the response, and addition of 0.5 mM BaCl2 to the TEA solution increased the duration even further. The spike component always occurred in the presence of TEA and Ba++. No differences were observed between responses in WKY and SHR reaggregates. A bolus of angiotensin II (All) (bolus concentration of 1 µM) elicited a transient depolarization. In some cells an active membrane response was triggered by the depolarization and sometimes included the spike component. Replacing all the Na+ in the solution with either Tris or choline resulted in loss of the response to All, and in some cells a hyperpolarization was actually seen on addition of the AH. The response to All was insensitive to verapamil (up to 10–5M), but was blocked by 1 mM MnCl2. Reaggregates from both WKY and SHR animals gave similar responses to AIL The data indicates that cultured reaggregates of vascular smooth muscle are electrically excitable and are sensitive to angiotensin. Therefore functional angiotensin receptors must be present in the cultured cells.
Comparative Morphologic and Histochemical Studies on the Collagen of Vertebrate Arteries
Authors: Carrasco F.H. , Montes G.S. , Krisztán R.M. , Shigihara K.M. , Carneiro J. , Junqueira L.C.U.
Published: April 2017

Arteries of representative species from the main vertebrate classes were studied by a method that quantitates collagen-proteoglycans interaction, by the histochemical Picro-sirius polarization method and by electron microscopy. The collagen of the adventitia presents features which are characteristic of collagen type I. The collagen in the tunica media revealed histochemical and ultrastructural aspects which are typical of collagen type III. As these results were consistently observed in all species studied, they suggest the presence of a general structural pattern of collagen distribution in vertebrate arteries.
Relaxation of Isolated Middle Cerebral Artery Induced by Diazoxide
Authors: Estrada C. , Conde M.V. , Balfagón G. , Gómez B. , Lluch S.
Published: April 2017

The effect of diazoxide on isometric tension of goat middle cerebral arteries was investigated both under resting conditions and under contraction produced by 10–6 Af serotonin. In addition, the inhibitory action of diazoxide was tested against contractile effects induced by different experimental interventions such as electrical field stimulation, norepinephrine, tyramine, histamine, and KCl. Diazoxide caused dose-dependent relaxation of cerebral arteries which was more pronounced when the vessels were previously contracted. High doses of diazoxide (10–3M) inhibited significantly the contraction induced by electrical field stimulation and all the vasoactive agents used. This inhibitory effect of diazoxide was greater for those drugs that directly or indirectly act through alpha-adrenergic receptor stimulation. Tritium release induced by electrical field stimulation of cerebral arteries previously labelled with 3H-norepinephrine was not affected in the presence of diazoxide. We conclude that diazoxide has a dilatory effect on goat brain vessels due to direct relaxation of smooth muscle together with a possible blockade of the alpha-adrenergic receptors. This effect might explain the maintenance of cerebral blood flow observed in vivo during diazoxide-induced arterial hypotension.
Quantitative Changes in the Size of Fenestrations of the Elastic Laminae of Sheep Thoracic Aorta Studied with SEM
Authors: Song S.H. , Roach Margot R.
Published: April 2017

The elastic laminae were extracted from thoracic aortas of 6 adult sheep by treating them in 0.1 N NaOH at 75 °C, and the surface of internal elastic lamina (IEL) was observed for windows by scanning electron microscopy. The fenestration analysis on IEL showed that mean diameters of the holes ranged from 0.46 µm ( ± 0.013 SEM) to 1.35 µm ( ± 1.019 SEM), which is smaller than those of human cerebral arteries (7.0 ± 0.34 at the apex of the bifurcation and 2.1 ± 0.13 SEM µm in the straight sections; [3]), and mean densities ranged from 6,513 to 31,544/mm2. Both size and density of windows are found to increase when the digestion time in the hot alkaline solution is increased form 1 to 3 h. It is concluded that the IEL of the sheep thoracic aorta has smaller windows than human cerebral arteries and because of the wall thickness the thoracic aorta requires longer digestion times than human cerebral arteries.
Frequency of Neuromuscular Junctions on Arteries of Different Dimensions in the Rabbit, Guinea Pig and Rat
Authors: Luff Susan E. , McLachlan Elspeth M.
Published: April 2017

The medio-adventitial border of a variety of perfusion-fixed arteries of young adult rabbits, guinea pigs and rats has been studied in the electron microscope. The arterial media in the different vessels ranged from 2 to 25 cells thick. Neuromuscular junctions, defined as axon varicosities containing synaptic vesicles closely apposed to the outer surface of smooth muscle cells, with only a single layer of basal lamina intervening between axon and muscle membranes, were identified in all three species. Junctions were found in most vessels < 1 mm in diameter with a frequency ranging from 8,000–150,000 junctions per square millimeter of smooth muscle surface, the number generally increasing with decreasing arterial diameter. These small arteries were mostly, but not exclusively, muscular rather than elastic. In large arteries, such as abdominal aortae and some elastic arteries lying close to the heart (e.g. the carotid), no junctions were found. In a few vessels, such as guinea pig basilar (muscular) and rat and guinea pig superior mesenteric (elastic) arteries, junctions were found infrequently (1,000–4,000/mm2). The data indicate that all muscular arteries in rats and guinea pigs, and most muscular arteries in rabbits, receive innervation in the form of sympathetic neuromuscular junctions. Whilst a few elastic vessels are sparsely innervated with junctions, some are surrounded by axon bundles containing vesicle-filled varicosities. The physiological significance of the latter is obscure.
Vascular Changes Associated with Deoxycorticosterone-NaCl-Induced Hypertension
Authors: Lee R.M.K.W. , Richardson M. , McKenzie R.
Published: April 2017

Rats were injected with deoxycorticosterone (DOC) and salt was added to the drinking water (DOC/NaCl) for 3 weeks. Approximately half of the animals became hypertensive (DOC-H), whereas the remainder showed no increase in blood pressure (DOC-N) compared to age-matched, untreated controls. Morphometric analysis of the alterations in the arteries of the mesenteric bed was carried out in vessels fixed at maximum relaxation. Alterations were observed in the arteries, some of which were related to hypertension, but not to treatment, and some were due to treatment alone. The alterations within the arteries of the mesenteric bed depended in part on the type of artery, i.e. elastic, muscular or arteriolar. An increase in lumen area, in intimal area, and in the area of the media was seen in all types of arteries from DOC-H, but not in either group of normotensive animals. The medial hypertrophy was positively correlated with the increase in blood pressure; and was due to an increase in the number of smooth muscle cell layers in the elastic and muscular arteries, and probably to smooth muscle cell hypertrophy in the arterioles. The adventitial area was increased only in the elastic and muscular arteries. Endothelial injury, degeneration of the basement membrane, loss of heparan sulfate proteoglycan and intimal edema was observed in all the DOC/NaCl-treated animals, but was more severe in those which were also hypertensive. Hypertrophy of the heart and kidneys were observed in both normotensive and hypertensive DOC/NaCl-treated animals. These data indicate that changes in the rat cardiovascular system can be induced by DOC/NaCl treatment in the absence of hypertension, but also that hypertension is associated with specific arterial structural alterations, which vary according to the type of artery.