bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histidine residues in the IS3–IS4 loop are critical for nickel‐sensitive inhibition of the Cav2.3 calcium channel
Authors: Kang Ho-Won , Moon Hyung-Jo , Joo Seol-hee , Lee Jung-Ha
Published: November 2007

We recently reported that a histidine (H191) in the S3–S4 loop of domain I is critical for nickel inhibition of the Cav3.2 T‐type Ca2+ channel. As in Cav3.2, two histidine residues are commonly found in the IS3–IS4 loops of mammalian Cav2.3 Ca2+ channels, which are also blocked by low micromolar concentrations of nickel. We show here by site‐directed mutagenesis and electrophysiology that both residues contribute to the nickel sensitivity of Cav2.3, with H183 being more critical than H179. These findings strongly suggest that both H179 and H183 in the IS3–IS4 loop are essential structural determinants required for nickel sensitive inhibition of the Cav2.3.
A soluble and active form of Wnt‐3a protein is involved in myogenic differentiation after cholesterol depletion
Authors: Portilho Débora M. , Martins Eliane R. , Costa Manoel L. , Mermelstein Cláudia S.
Published: November 2007

Cholesterol is one of the major lipids of plasma membranes. Recently, we have shown that cholesterol depletion by methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (MβCD) induces the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and enhances myogenic differentiation. Here, we show that MβCD‐conditioned media accelerates myogenesis in a similar way as MβCD does, suggesting that the effects induced by MβCD could be caused by soluble factors present in the culture medium. Soluble Wnt‐3 protein is significantly enhanced in MβCD‐conditioned medium. Wnt‐3a‐enriched media induces myogenesis as much as MβCD does, whereas Wnt‐5a‐enriched media inhibits. We suggest that Wnt‐3a is involved in the myogenic induction observed after cholesterol depletion.
A novel ferritin gene, SferH‐5, reveals heterogeneity of the 26.5‐kDa subunit of soybean (Glycine max) seed ferritin
Authors: Dong Xiangbai , Sun Qiming , Wei Dongping , Li Jiahuang , Li Jie , Tang Bo , Jia Qi , Hu Wenjun , Zhao Yongjuan , Hua Zi-Chun
Published: November 2007

A novel ferritin cDNA, SferH‐5, has been cloned from 7‐day‐old soybean seedlings. Putative SferH‐5 has 96% identity with SferH‐1 reported previously. All the five amino acid variants distributed in the mature region are not involved in highly conserved residues associated with ferroxidase activity center. We speculate that SferH‐5 encodes a novel 26.5‐kDa subunit of soybean seed ferritin, which is designated H‐5 in this study. Recombinant H‐5 was able to assemble, together with co‐expressed H‐2, as a functional soybean seed ferritin‐like complex, H‐5/H‐2. Our data reveal the potential heterogeneity of the 26.5‐kDa subunit of soybean seed ferritin.
Antenatal detection of arteriovenous anastomoses in monochorionic twin pregnancy
Authors: Sau A. , Weber M. , Shennan A.H. , Maxwell D.
Published: November 2007

Objectives

To revalidate the detection technique for arteriovenous anastomoses in an unselected group of monochorionic twins, and to make recommendations about its applicability for more widespread use.

Methods

Women with monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twins were recruited and underwent placental mapping by color Doppler ultrasound. Images of placental maps showing the location and type of anastomoses were saved as digital video clips. After delivery, dye injection study of all the placentas was performed to delineate the site and type of anastomoses. A digital photograph of each injection study was taken and saved. The antenatal ultrasound images and postnatal dye injection studies were compared.

Results

18 sets MCDA twins were evaluated. In 3 cases there was evidence of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome. Dye injection of 18 placentas revealed 21 arterio‐arterial anastomoses (AAA), 21 arteriovenous anastomoses (AVA) and 4 veno‐venous anastomoses (VVA). Of these, 10 (48%) AAAs and 5 (24%) AVAs were detected antenatally by color Doppler. In all cases, where an AVA was detected, the placenta was located anteriorly.

Conclusion

Antenatal detection of AVA was feasible when the placenta was located anteriorly, but proved difficult in posteriorly situated placentas.
Effect of vitamins C and E supplementation on peripheral oxidative stress markers and pregnancy rate in women with endometriosis
Authors: Mier‐Cabrera Jennifer , Genera‐García Mercedes , De la Jara‐Díaz Julio , Perichart‐Perera Otilia , Vadillo‐Ortega Felipe , Hernández‐Guerrero Cesar
Published: November 2007

Objective

To determine whether vitamins C and E supplementation lowers oxidative stress marker levels and improves pregnancy rate in women with endometriosis.

Methods

Thirty‐four women with endometriosis received a bar containing vitamins C and E (343 mg and 84 mg, respectively) or placebo for 6 months. Plasma and peritoneal fluid levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxides (LOOHs) were measured for all women and compared between the 2 groups. Data were analyzed by the t test or 1‐way analysis of variance for parametric data and the Mann–Whitney rank sum test or Kruskall–Wallis test for nonparametric data. The Fisher exact test was used to compare pregnancy rates.

Results

After 4 months, the study group had lower levels of MDA and LOOHs than the control group, and the difference became statistically significant in the fourth month for MDA levels and in the sixth month for LOOH levels. The postintervention pregnancy rates were 19% and 12% in the supplementation and placebo groups, respectively, but the difference was not significant.

Conclusions

Vitamins C and E supplementation was associated with a decrease in the concentration of oxidative stress markers in women with endometriosis. The pregnancy rate, however, did not improve during or after the intervention.
An assessment of the onset and duration of action of olopatadine nasal spray
Authors: Patel Piyush , Roland Peter S. , Marple Bradley F. , Benninger Paul J. , Margalias Harriet , Brubaker Michael , Drake Margaret , Potts Susan L. , Wall G. Michael , Michael Brubaker
Published: November 2007

Objective

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) is a highly prevalent disease. This study was conducted to evaluate the onset and duration of action of three concentrations of olopatadine nasal spray.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double‐blind, single‐dose, placebo‐controlled study, conducted in an environmental exposure chamber in patients with SAR. A total of 320 patients were exposed to ragweed allergen in the chamber and randomized to olopatadine nasal spray 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, or placebo nasal spray. Symptoms (sneezing, runny, itchy, and stuffy nose) were self‐assessed during a 12‐hour study period.

RESULTS

All concentrations of olopatadine nasal spray provided clinically meaningful reductions in total nasal symptom scores at 30 minutes compared to the placebo. Olopatadine nasal spray 0.6% was significantly more effective (P<0.05) than placebo nasal spray at all time‐points starting at 90 minutes postdose and continuing over 12 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

Olopatadine nasal spray 0.6% demonstrated a fast onset of action and maintained an effect for at least 12 hours after dosing.
Long‐term improvements in quality‐of‐life after surgical therapy for pediatric sinonasal disease
Authors: Rudnick Emily F. , Mitchell Ron B.
Published: November 2007

Objective

To study long‐term changes in quality‐of‐life (QOL) in children after surgery for chronic sinonasal disease.

DESIGN

Prospective, nonrandomized.

METHODS

Caregivers completed the SN‐5 QOL instrument before surgery. Children underwent either adenoidectomy or endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Caregivers then completed a survey <6 months (short‐term) and between six and 24 months after surgery (long‐term). Scores were compared using a paired t test.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two children were enrolled (mean age, 5.7 years). The majority (59%) of children underwent ESS. The mean preoperative total score was 25.6. Postoperatively, the mean total score was 11.7 at short‐term (P < 0.0001) and 11.5 at long‐term follow‐up (P < 0.0001). Short‐ and long‐term postoperative scores for all domains were significantly different from preoperative scores. In the long‐term scores, the domain with the greatest change was “emotional distress” (SRM 1.9) and with the smallest change was “allergy symptoms” (SRM 1.0). There were no significant differences between children who underwent adenoidectomy compared with ESS.

CONCLUSIONS

After adenoidectomy or ESS, caregivers observe a long‐term improvement in QOL of children with sinonasal disease.
Early experience with minimally invasive esophagectomy in head and neck surgical patients
Authors: Morris Luc G. T. , Tran Theresa N. , DeLacure Mark D.
Published: November 2007

Background

Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) via thoracoscopy and laparoscopy have reduced the morbidity and mortality of total esophagectomy at experienced centers. MIE has not been evaluated in combination with major head and neck surgery, or in the otolaryngology literature.

Methods

Case series of 11 consecutive patients undergoing either open or MIE with an ablative neck procedure.

Results

Comparing 4 MIEs and 7 open operations, similar operative time, blood loss, and ICU and hospital length of stay were observed. There was one mortality in the open group. A 100% rate of major complications was observed in the MIE group.

Conclusion

Our multidisciplinary team was unable to achieve improved outcomes in a series of head and neck surgical patients undergoing MIE. This result may represent an early stage of the learning curve for MIE, but may also be attributed to the escalated surgical requirements of head and neck patients.
Improvements to staged canal wall up tympanoplasty for middle ear cholesteatoma
Authors: Hinohira Yasuyuki , Yanagihara Naoaki , Gyo Kiyofumi
Published: November 2007

Objective

To describe our improvements to staged canal wall up tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy (SCUT) for middle ear cholesteatoma, and to show more successful outcomes of the surgery compared with our data previously reported.

Study Design

Retrospective study in a tertiary referral hospital.

Setting

78 ears of 76 patients with extensive cholesteatoma were operated on using the improved SCUT between July 1998 and December 2006. Improved SCUT included new techniques such as scutum plasty and mastoid cortex plasty performed in a staged manner.

Results

Only 2 ears showed retraction pocket formation (7.7%) without recurrence in 26 ears followed for more than 5 years. In 48 followed for more than 3 years, frequency of postoperative retraction pocket formation (5/48; 10.4%) was significantly lower compared to our previous results (41/134; 30.6%, P 0.01).

Conclusion

Our improvements to SCUT contributed to the decreasing of frequency of postoperative retraction pocket that may lead to cholesteatoma recurrence, although a longer follow‐up study is required.
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy in functional lacrimal obstruction
Authors: Brewis C , Yung M , Merkonidis C , Hardman-Lea S
Published: November 2007

Introduction:

We performed endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy in cases diagnosed with both anatomical and functional lacrimal obstruction, and here report results for the latter cases.

Methods:

Sixty-eight endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomies were performed for functional obstruction on 44 patients. The indication for surgery was epiphora in 66 patients and recurrent dacryocystitis in two. The minimum follow up was six months.

Results:

There was complete cure in 44 (65 per cent) patients, partial cure in nine (13 per cent) and no improvement in 15 (22 per cent). Revision surgery was performed in five of the 15 cases with no improvement, after which there was an overall complete cure in 47 patients (69 per cent), partial cure in 10 (15 per cent) and no improvement in 11 (16 per cent).

Discussion:

Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is indicated in cases of epiphora with a diagnosis of functional lacrimal obstruction. Currently available investigations cannot reliably distinguish partial anatomical obstruction from pump failure.
Three-dimensional simulations of magnetic reconnection in a dusty plasma
Authors: LAZERSON SAMUEL A. , WIECHEN HEINZ M.
Published: November 2007

We present the results of three-dimensional self-consistent multi-fluid simulations of magnetic reconnection in a dusty plasma. We ballistically relax a Harris-like current sheet into a fluid pseudo-equilibrium. We then perturb the current sheet with typical inflow and outflow velocities associated with classical models of reconnection. We find a 20% decrease in magnetic energy for the case of a locally enhanced resistivity. For a parameter-dependent resistivity we find a 26% decrease in magnetic energy in the current sheet. We find dust-neutral relative flow velocities that are a factor of two greater than the dust Alfvén velocity. We then explore the implications of these flows on aerodynamic drag heating of the dust particles.
Twentieth century climate model response and climate sensitivity
Authors: Kiehl Jeffrey T.
Published: November 2007

Climate forcing and climate sensitivity are two key factors in understanding Earth's climate. There is considerable interest in decreasing our uncertainty in climate sensitivity. This study explores the role of these two factors in climate simulations of the 20th century. It is found that the total anthropogenic forcing for a wide range of climate models differs by a factor of two and that the total forcing is inversely correlated to climate sensitivity. Much of the uncertainty in total anthropogenic forcing derives from a threefold range of uncertainty in the aerosol forcing used in the simulations.
“Compression aurora”: Particle precipitation driven by long‐duration high solar wind ram pressure
Authors: Liou Kan , Newell Patrick T. , Shue Jih‐Hong , Meng Ching‐I , Miyashita Yukinaga , Kojima Hirotsugu , Matsumoto Hiroshi
Published: November 2007

The transient behavior of shock‐induced auroras reported by previous workers suggests a cause‐and‐effect relationship between the shock front and the auroral transient. However, it is not known if the high solar wind dynamic pressure downstream of a shock can have significant effects on the global auroral morphology. In this brief report we present results from an observational study on global auroral response to large solar wind dynamic pressure, using global auroral images acquired by the ultraviolet imager on board the Polar spacecraft. It is found that the luminosity of the aurora showed a general prompt and lasting increase in the dawn and dusk flanks of the oval. Such an auroral activity is closely related to the compression of the magnetosphere and is thus christened “compression aurora.” The luminosity increase, though predominantly in the dawn sector of the oval, may persist as long as the solar wind dynamic pressure stays high and may disappear ∼10 min after the dynamic pressure drops. A detailed examination of Defense Meteorological Satellite Program particle data on one fortuitous event on 26 September 1999 indicates that the compression aurora is produced mainly by precipitating electrons originating from the central plasma sheet (CPS). Plasma wave observations made from Geotail in the dawn sector of the near‐Earth plasma sheet indicates no expected plasma wave activity that may have been otherwise considered a primary cause of enhanced CPS particle precipitation through a pitch angle loss by wave‐particle interactions. We propose that reductions of the Earth's magnetic field mirror ratio by magnetospheric compression can be a prime mechanism for the compression aurora as long as there is a continuing supply of particle source.
Radar backscattering properties of nonspherical ice crystals at 94 GHz
Authors: Hong Gang
Published: November 2007

The millimeter wavelength radar backscattering properties at 94 GHz for six nonspherical ice crystals, which include hexagonal column, hollow, plate, bullet rosette, aggregate, and droxtal with 46 maximum dimensions ranging from 2 to 10,500 μm, are investigated using the discrete dipole approximation (DDA) method and Lorenz‐Mie theory. It is found that the radar backscattering cross sections are sensitive to ice crystal habits and their representations, which use spherical particles with equivalent maximum dimension, volume, projected area, or the ratio of volume to projected area to model nonspherical ice crystals for the Lorenz‐Mie theory. The radar backscattering cross sections of the six nonspherical ice crystals from the DDA method are further parameterized as functions of maximum dimensions of ice crystals. The results from the parameterizations agree well with those computed from the DDA method. Moreover, the mean radar backscattering cross sections derived by averaging the results from the parameterizations over gamma distributions for ice clouds are consistent with those from the DDA method. The parameterizations are applied to derive the coefficients for the relationships between equivalent radar reflectivity factor and ice water content for ice clouds consisting of the six nonspherical ice crystal habits or a mixture of habits. The coefficients from the parameterizations are close to those from the DDA method. Both of them are sensitive to ice crystal habits. The pronounced differences among the relationship between equivalent radar reflectivity factor and ice water content for an ice cloud with a mixture of ice crystal habits, which has been extensively used for solar and infrared retrievals of ice cloud properties, and several previous relationships further confirm their sensitivity to microphysical properties of ice clouds.
IMMUNITY IN INVERTEBRATES. THE PURIFICATION OF A HAEMAGGLUTININ TO RAT AND RABBIT ERYTHROCYTES FROM THE HAEMOLYMPH OF THE MURRAY MUSSEL (Velesunio ambiguus).
Authors: Jenkin CR , Rowley D
Published: November 2007

A haemagglutinin present in the haemolymph of the Murray Mussel (Velesunio ambiguus) has been purified by density gradient centrifugation and elution from the specific red cell stroma. The purified haemagglutinin is one of several which behave as a homogeneous group of proteins. Amino acid analyses of these proteins indicate that they lack tyrosine and sulphur‐containing amino acids.
FURTHER STUDIES ON A SKIN CALCIFYING SYSTEM
Authors: Smillie AC , Cousins FB
Published: November 2007

The changes in distribution of phosphorus involved in initiating deposition of hydroxy apatite in an experimental system based on mineralisation of rat skin have been studied.

Measurement of several major phosphate fractions indicated considerable movement of phosphorus, particularly between the inorganic and organic phosphate pools of the skin. There was also an uptake of phosporus by a collagen‐rich fraction, which was related both temporally and sequentially to mineralisation. The phosphate taken up was released from the collagen fraction within a few hours if calcification did not occur. Attempts to demonstrate an inhibitory role for pyrophosphate in this calcifying system were unsuccessful.
COLICIN‐LIKE ANTIBIOTICS AND BACTERIOPHAGES OF SALMONELLAS
Authors: Atkinson Nancy
Published: November 2007

In an investigation of 1825 strains of a wide variety of Salmonella serotypes and Kauffmann‐White groups, between 5 and 10% were found to produce colicin‐like antibiotics, and at least 40% produced phage; the majority were sensitive to salmonellin, and about 40% of those tested were sensitive to at least one colicin. It is suggested that some combination of these characters might be useful for exact strain identification.
“NATURAL” ANTIBODY IN MAN TO FLAGELLAR ANTIGENS OF SALMONELLA ADELAIDE
Authors: Rowley Merrill J
Published: November 2007

“Natural” antibodies to flagellin from Salmonella adelaide (SW 1338) were detected by tanned cell haemagglutination in 79% of 611 men, women and children. These antibodies were not detected in cord blood, but became demorstrable in serum within two weeks of birth, after which the incidence of antibodies increased, and titres rose to a peak in the twenties. Thereafter titres fell slowly. Natural antibodies to fiagellin were of IgM class and were specific for flagellin from Salmonella adelaide.

Studies on natural antibodies to flagellin, an antigen of restricted provenance, should clarify how natural antibodies originate and what relation they have to immune antibodies.
MURINE DISEASE INDUCED BY AVIAN REOVIRUS
Authors: Phillips PA , Stanley NF , Walters M N‐I
Published: November 2007

Mice infected neonatally by the oronasal route with an avian reovirus (Fahey‐Crawley virus) developed pathological changes in the liver similar to those caused by murine infections with mammalian reoviruses. Further changes occurred in the central nervous system, and in the lungs, where there was severe suppurative bronchopneumonia apparently caused by secondary bacterial invasion with endogenously derived Pasteurella pneumotropica.
EFFECTS OF URINARY ACIDITY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEPHROCALCINOSIS IN RATS
Authors: Goulding Ailsa , Malthus RS
Published: November 2007

Weanling rats fed a semi‐purified dirt containing 25 per cent casein and 67·8 per cent sucrose developed considerable deposits of calcium phosphate in their kidneys. Rats given ammonium chloride supplements in the diet excreted more hydrogen ions as ammonium and develope significantly less nuphrocalcinosis; the greater the quantity of ammonium chloride ingested. the less severe was the nephrocalcinosis, but even rats feil 5·7 per cent NH4Cl developed some mineral deposits. However, feeding ammonium chloride did not appear to dissolve deposits already formed. Mineral deposition was only reduced whilst the diet contained ammonium chloride; when the acidifying diet was replaced, mineral deposition progressed rapidly. Rats given supplements of sodium bicarbonate in the diet excreted alkaline urine containing significantly less hydrogen ion as ammonium than that of rats fed the original diet and accumulated significantly more mineral in their kidneys.
THE INFLUENCE OF SYNTHETIC OESTROGEN AND PROGESTOGEN ON THE RAT MYOCARDIUM
Authors: Frank S , Zelcer J , Walters WAW
Published: November 2007

Changes in wet and dry weight of the heart were investigated in female rats after ovariectomy anti following the administration of oestrogen, progestogen and a combination of oestrogen and progestogen. These changes were related to body weight and the size of the extracellular fluid space of the myocardium.

Heart dry weight and body weight in the animals given combined oestrogen and progestogen were maintained closer to those of the controls than in the animals given either hormone separately. Ovariectomy resulted in an increase in body weight and a relative decrease in wet and dry weight of the heart.

The extracellular fluid space was increased in the hearts of animals treated with a combination of oestrogen and progestogen, whereas it was not altered in ovariectomized animals or in those given either hormone separately.
INCREASED UPTAKE AND EFFLUX OE CALCIUM WITH ACETYLCHOLINE STIMULATION IN SMOOTH MUSCLE OF TOAD STOMACH
Authors: Potter Julia M , Sparrow MP , Simmonds WJ
Published: November 2007

The effect of acetylcholine stimulation on Ca movements in depolarized smooth muscle from toad stomach muscle was investigated.

No difference in the content of Ca45 due to ACh stimulation could be detected in muscle containing its full complement of Ca. However, in Ca depleted muscle exposed to Ca 0·05 mM, solution, uptake of Ca was accelerated and the equilibrium content of total and exchangeable Ca was increased by some 5% of the total tissue Ca. This amount was similar to the extra Ca lost when muscle was depleted into Ca‐free solution with intermittent ACh stimulation.

The efflux of Ca45 from normal and replcted muscle was studied, using a constant flow system. ACh stimulation of both normal and repleted muscle resulted in a transient increase in the efflux of Ca45. The slow component of the efflux curve occupied a larger proportion of the cellular Ca in the repleted than in the normal muscle. The increment of Ca uptake due to ACh stimulation during repletion was found to be wholly in this fraction.

The significance of these results in relation to an excitation‐contraction‐coupling fraction are discussed.
CHANGES IN PHAGOCYTIC ACTIVITY AND MORPHOLOGY OF RETICULOENDOTHELIAL ORGANS IN MICE INDUCED BY ANTILYMPIIOCYTE SERUM
Authors: Gotjamanos T , Gill PG
Published: November 2007

Rabbit anti‐mouse antilymphocyte sera and antilymphocyte globulin preparations went studied for their effects on (1) phagocytic activity of peritoneal and fixed macrophages and (2) morphology of reticuloendothelial organs. Antilymphocyte sera did nut adversely affect the ability of peritoneal macrophages to carry out phagocytosis in vivo or in vitro. One and 2 does of antilymphocyte sera given to mice depressed the rate of carbon clearance from the circulation; multiple doses of antilymphocyte sera stimulated the rate of carbon clearance and induced marked hepatosplenomegaly. The increased liver mass in serum‐treated mice was due mainly to hypertrophy although some antilymphocyte sera‐treated mice also exhibited an increase in the relative numbers of Kupffer cells. Splenic enlargement followed administration of unabsorbed antilymphocyte sera as well as antilymphocyte sera that had been absorbed with mouse erythrocytes and bone marrow cells. Histologically, these enlarged spleens showed marked lymphoid depletion and intense extramedullary haematopoiesis. The changes in phagocytic activity and morphology of reticuloendothelial organs observed in adult mice used in the present investigation closely parallel those which have been reported to occur in neonatally thymectomized mice. The results obtained thus tend to support the concept that antilymphocyte sera can confer a state of “immunothymectomy” when administered to adult animals, and, furthermore, are in accord with its principal mode of action.
LOCAL CELLULAR ANTIBODIES, RESPONSE IN SPLENECTOMIZED RATS FOLLOWINC ORAL MUCOSA IMMUNIZATION WITH SHEEP ERYTHROCYTES
Authors: Thonard JC , Aladjem Racheune
Published: November 2007

Normal and splenectomized male albino rats were injected in the oral mucosa between the lower central incisor teeth with sheep erythrocytes twice weekly for three weeks. Specific cell immune competence was assayed in the areas of local injection, the draining lymph nodes and spleens by a modified Jerne plaque technique. Sera were analysed for haemagglutinins and haemolysins und the mercaptoethanol sensitivity of the immune responses tested. Results indicate that the spleen is primarily involved in 19S‐type antibody response, whereas the draining lymph nodes and/or the local injection site can account for the 7S response following local antigen stimulation. The spleen is not necessary for the production of immunocompetent cells in a local inflammatory site. The immunocompetent cells found in a local site of antigen stimulation must therefore be derived from lymph nodes or from a local cellular differentiation into antibody forming cells. These possibilities are discussed.
A COMPARISON OF THE CHANGES PRODUCED IN RETICULOENDOTHELIAL ORGANS OF MICE DURING HOST‐VERSUS‐GRAFT AND GRAFT‐VERSUS‐HOST REACTIONS
Authors: Gotjamanos T
Published: November 2007

A host‐versus‐graft reaction initiated by the intravenous injection of F1 (Balb/c × C57 Black) spleen cells into Balb/c mice is characterized by hepatosplenomegaly and a marked increase in the phagocytic activity of the reticuloendothelial system. Although the host‐versus‐graft reaction is accompanied by changes in reticuloendothelial organs which are also found in the graft‐versus‐host reaction, viz., phagocytic stimulation, splenomegaly and hepatomegaly, significant differences exist in the onset, duration and nature of the functional and morphological changes produced. They occur much earlier in the host‐versus‐graft reaction and persist for shorter periods. No increase in the relative number of liver macrophages occurs in the host‐versus‐graft reaction, and splenic enlargement is due to white pulp hyperplasia with prominent germinal centre development. In a situation where the potential exists for host‐versus‐graft and graft‐versus‐host reactions to occur simultaneously, such as that created by injecting CBA spleen cells into Balb/c mice, the host‐versus‐graft reaction develops and is of sufficient intensity to prevent the transplanted cells from mounting a graft‐versus‐host reaction against the recipient animal.
THE ASSESSMENT OF A SELECTED SET OF BACTERIOPHAGES IN THE TYPING OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS OF BOVINE ORIGIN IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Frost AJ
Published: November 2007

The action of 20 selected phages on 1187 strains of Staphylococcus aureus from dairy cattle was studied. The phage patterns of 933 strains were analysed; 45 simple patterns accounted for 69·3% of strains and 6·9% were non‐typable. The phages were separated into lytic groups and the staphylococci classified into the following phage groups: group I 11·4%, group II 0·8%, group III 2·2%, group III/IV 20·9%, group IV 51·4%, miscellaneous 5·8%, others 7·5%.
DISTRIBUTION VOLUMES OF LABELLED RED BLOOD CELLS AND LABELLED PROTEIN AND “F CELLS” IN INTACT AND SPLENECTOMIZED HbA AND HbB TYPE SHEEP
Authors: Dooley PC , Morris RJH , Harris LRJ
Published: November 2007

The dilutions of labelled red blood cells and labelled albumin were studied over a 10 hour period in HbA and HbB sheep, both before and after splenectomy.

The dilution curves were analysed into exponentials, and values for red blood cell volume and plasma volume were calculated from various portions of the curves.

Dilution curves for labelled red blood cells in intact sheep showed. important differences from those in splenectomized sheep.

Red blood cell volume was calculated from: The extrapolation of the exponential process with the slowest decay rate; the sum of intercepts of all exponential processes; jugular haematocrit and plasma volume. Splenectomy significantly reduced the values for these parameters.

Plasma volume was calculated from the extrapolation of the exponential with the slowest decay rate and from the sum of intercepts of all exponential processes. Splenectomy significantly reduced the values for these parameters. Blood volume and the value for the ratio of body to jugular haematocrit were calculated from the data, and were found to be significantly reduced by splenectomy.

Differences between HbA and HbB sheep were found only for jugular haematocrit and red blood cell volume calculated from jugular haematocrit and plasma volume.

The differences in values from the several methods of calculating red blood cell volume in intact sheep and the reduction of these values by splenectomy are discussed in relation to the splenic red blood cell content.
THE EFFECT OF THE THERMAL ENVIRONMENT ON PRESSURE‐FLOW CURVES FOR HUMAN SKIN
Authors: Ludbrook J
Published: November 2007

A pressure‐box was used to reduce mean perfusion pressure in the upper limb. Pressure‐flow curves for the skin of the hand and forcann were‐ constructed under a variety of conditions. The blood flow to the skin of the forearm was examined by plethysmosraphy before and after adrenaline ionto‐ phoresis, after alterations to the local thermal environment and after body‐ heating. The skin of the hand was examined by the latter two technique's and by heat‐flow discs. No evidence was fonnd for antorcgulation of blood flow in skill under any of these circumstances.
THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM AND PHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF “OPTIMAL” CARDIOVASCULAR CONTROL
Authors: Korner PI
Published: November 2007

The classic cardiovascular centres of the pons and medulla, and the higher autonomic mechanisms of the hypothalamus and cerebral hemispheres all receive important afferent projections from the 9th and 10th cranial nerve cardiorespiratory afferent inputs. The higher and lower autonomic mechanisms both act in conjunction as a functional circuit to which somatic and other inputs also converge. Of particular importance are the inhibitory systems of the cerebral hemispheres, which appear to have become more developed during evolution, and which limit hypothalamic autonomic activity during moderate stress. Grading of autonomic activity depends on a “comparator” action by the central nervous system of the relative magnitude of two or more inputs. When during severe stress large autonomic effects are produced, it is blood flow distribution which alters, rather than the level of cardiac output. The blood flow patterns in animals without functioning autonomic effectors have been compared with those found in a number of neurological preparations, with different degrees of prominence of the various autonomic effector mechanisms. During severe prolonged stress the benefit of a particular autonomic activity has to be weighed against the potential metabolic cost (i.e. acidosis) of excessive neural vasoconstriction or high rates of secretion of adrenal catecholamines. Suprabulbar mechanisms contribute to “optimal” cardiovascular control during severe disturbances.
COPPER DEFICIENCY IN THE RAT. EFFECT ON ADENINE NUCLEOTIDE METABOLISM
Authors: Gallagher CH , Reeve Vivienne E
Published: November 2007

Copper deficiency does not influence the synthesis of ATP by liver mitochondria not does it alter the concentration of ATP in whole liver homogenates or in isolated mitochondria, macrodomes and supernatant. However, copper deficiency considerably reduces the affinity of mitochondria to bind adenine nucleotides on membrane preparations. This defect leads to failure of ATP transport across the inner membrane resulting in abnormal accumulation of ATP within mitochondria incubated in vitro and a requirement of exogenous ATP for optimal rates of phospholipid synthesis by enzymes of the outer mitochondrial membrane. The effect of copper deficiency on adenine nucleotide metabolism and consequently on phospholipid synthesis is analogous to that of the glycoside atractyloside. The possible mechanisms of action are discussed.
COPPER DEFICIENCY IN THE RAT. EFFECT ON LIVER AND BRAIN LIPIDS
Authors: Gallagher CH , Reeve Vivienne E
Published: November 2007

Copper deficiency in the rat has been found not to alter significantly the total phospholipids of liver or brain. However, in agreement with their defective capacity to synthesize phospholipid. liver mitochondria from copper deficient rats contain significantly less phospholipid than do control mitochondria. The qualitative contort of specific phospholipids in liver or brain homogenates or in liver mitochondria is not changed by copper deficiency, indicating that the effect on phospholipid synthesis is general rather than on the synthesis of a specific phospholipid. The proportion of phospholipids present in liver and brain of control or copper‐deficient rats on the special diet does not differ from that of siblings raised on a stock pellet diet. Liver mitochondria from copper‐ deficient rats contain significantly more polyunsaturated fatty acids than do control liver mitochondria.

The decrease in total phospholipid and the increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids of copper‐deficient liver mitochondria are discussed in relation to cytochrome oxidase activity, mitochondrial permeability and the affinity of mitochondrial mombranes to bind and transport ATP. It is concluded that copper deficiency influences phospholipid synthesis by liver mitochondria in vivo as well as in vitro.
A STUDY OF THE CENTRAL ACTION OF FLUROTHYL AND METHOXYFLURANE
Authors: Schuck Sandra L , Shulman A
Published: November 2007

The central nervous system actions of the volatile fluorinated ethers flurothyl and methoxynflurane have been studied quantitatively in the mouse. Both ethers have been titrated against each other and against homologous glutarimides with analeptic, hypnotic or dual stimulant‐depressart central action. Flurothyl has been titrated additionally against the hypnoties hydroxydione, pentobarbitone sodium and trimethadione. The forms of the titration curves and the wide dose ranges of titration of the stimulants flurothyl, bemegride and 3‐methyl‐3‐n‐propylylutarimide have suggested that flurothyl and methoxyflurane produce their opposed stimulant and depressant actions at the same central sites as their structurally‐unrelated titrants. Thus, the ethers may act at excitatory synapses on neurones in the midbrain reticiular formation by increasing or decrcasing respectivcly the liberation of transmitter substance presynaptitally or the flux of ions postsynaptically, or both. Physicochemical properties of flurothyl and methoxyflurane which may contribute to their central actions have been discussed.
IN VITRO EFFECT OF RUBELLA VIRUS ON EMBRYONIC CHICK LENS
Authors: Harley JD , Edwards Anne , Filipic M , Gupta JD
Published: November 2007

Lenses dissected from 12‐day embryonic chicks, then incubated with rubella virus for varying periods of time, were subsequently found to have a shorter metabolic life in organ culture than those treated with uninfected RK13 cell extracts. In high concentrations of virus this inhibitory effect was rapid; with lower concentrations or shorter treatment time the effect was delayed. Virus could be isolated from the supernatant culture media 48 hours after removal of the original virus inoculum, but not subsequently. Distinct histopathological changes were usually apparent in lenses after 4 hours' incubation with rubella virus suspension, and extensive changes were present after 24 hours' incubation. Extract's of rubella‐infected RK13 cells from which rubella virus had been eliminated were also toxic to the lens. The early changes in this experimental system thus appear due to a direct toxic effect; the later changes may result from viral proliferation in the lens.
THE MECHANISM OF TRANSFER OF IMMUNOGLOBULIN INTO MAMMARY SECRETION OF COWS
Authors: Brandon MR , Watson DL , Lascelles AK
Published: November 2007

Changes in the concentration of IgG1, IgG2, IgM, IgA and albumin in serum and mammary secretion were studied in 15 cows and 2 heifers before and after parturition. Concentrations of IgG1 and IgG2 in blood serum 3–5 weeks before parturition were 13·38 ± 0·75 and 10·08 ± 0·39 mg/ml (means ± S.E.) respectively. In all animals the concentration of IgG1 in serum decreased abruptly, usually by more than 50%, 2·3 weeks before parturition, and during the same period the concentrations of IgG2, IgM, IgA and albumin in serum remained unchanged. Four weeks after parturition the concentration of IgG1 in serum had returned to values similar to those observed prior to the abrupt fall.

Five weeks before parturition the concentration of IgG1 in mammary secretion was, on average 11 times higher than that of IgG2. Highest concentrations of IgG1 in secretion (113·89 ± 11·41 mg/ml) were observed 2–3 weeks before parturition in 16 of the 17 animals. The concentration of IgG2 over the 5 weeks prior to parturition remained unchanged at levels of approx 30% of comparable values in serum. Concentrations of IgM (11·85 ± 0·53) and IgA (3·80 ± 0·20) in secretion collected prior to and immediately after parturition were, on average, 2 and 7 times higher respectively than those in serum.

The sharp fall in the concentration of IgG1 in serum in the absence of any suggestion of a concomitant decrease in IgG2 concentration strongly suggests that the degradation hypothesis proposed by Brambell (1958, 1966) for selective transfer of protein across epithelial membranes does not hold for the mammary gland of the cow. The results support an alternative hypothesis based on the existence of IgG1‐specific receptor sites located on the basal or intercellular membrane of the glandular epithelial cells.
RELATIVE EFFICIENCY OF ABSORPTION OF IgG1 IgG2, IgA AND IgM IN THE NEWBORN CALF
Authors: Brandon MR , Lascelles AK
Published: November 2007

To determine whether selective absorption of immunoglobulin occurs in newborn unanaesthetised calves, the concentrations of IgG1, IgG2, IgM and IgA were measured in thoracic duct lymph shortly after the feeding of colostrum. In the 13 calves studied it was found that the concentrations of IgG1, IgG2, IgM and IgA in lymph expressed as a proportion of the concentration of the same immunoglobulins in the colostrum fed were not significantly different. It is concluded that immunoglobulins in the molecular weight range of 150,000 to 1,000,000 are absorbed non‐selectively in the calf.
BUNAMIDINE UPTAKE AND DISTRIBUTION IN RATS AND DOGS
Authors: Virji AS , Laverty R
Published: November 2007

Plasma and tissue contents of bunamidine after oral and intravenous administration to dogs and rats were studied using tritium‐labelled drug. Unfed rats achieved higher plasma and tissue levels more quickly than fed rats. The results with 5 dogs failed to show a consistent effect of feeding on the pattern of absorption. Bunamidine reached peak concentrations in dog plasma 3–8 hours after oral dosing; the drug was distributed in tissues, concentrating particularly in the liver, and only little was excreted in the first 8 hours.
INTERACTION OF EMBRYONIC CHICKEN SPLEEN CELLS AND ADULT ALLOGENEIC LEUCOCYTES
Authors: Killby Virginia AA , Lafferty KJ , Ryan Madeleine A
Published: November 2007

Leucocytes from inbred AA chickens produced pocks when inoculated onto the chorioallantoic membrane of non‐inbred embryos (direct pock formation), but produced very few or no pocks on the chorioallantoic membrane of syngeneic embryos. Pock formation was observed when AA leucocytes were mixed with non‐inbred embryonic spleen cells before being assayed on the chorioallantoic membrane of recipient embryos that were unresponsive to either cell population alone (indirect pock formation).

Indirect pock formation was found to be more radio‐resistant than direct pock formation and doses of Mitomycin‐C that inhibited direct pock formation by AA leucocytes did not inhibit the capacity of these cells to induce indirect pocks. Indirect pock formation was inhibited when non‐inbred embryonic spleen cells were treated with Mitomycin‐C prior to mixing with AA leucocytes. It is suggested that indirect pock formation does not result from the stimulation of adult leucocytes by antigen presented on the surface of allogeneic embryonic cells. Rather, this response is a manifestation of the direct stimulation of embryonic spleen cells by adult allogeneic leucocytes.
INERT GASES IN THE KIDNEY: INFLUENCE OF THE COUNTERCURRENT MULTIPLICATION OF SODIUM
Authors: Abernethy JD
Published: November 2007

Small, but significant, partial pressure differences between urine and blood can be detected, indicating that in passage through the kidney N2 tension is reduced by 1·35% (7 mm Hg) whereas argon tension is increased by 0·77%. This differential behaviour is viewed as an inevitable side effect of the countercurrent multiplitation of sodium in the medulla given the known propensity of electrolytes for increasing the chemical potential of non‐polar solutes, i.e. the salting‐out effect. The primary event in sodium multiplication— removal of sodium from the ascending limb of Henle's loop—is then of necessity accompanied by a local reduction in partial pressure of dissolved gas. This initiates a chain of events culminating in active countercurrent attenuation of partial pressure, the effect being greater for the gas with the greater diffusivity (N2). The multiplication of sodium which parallels this attenuation tends also to offset it: increased salt concentration of necessity potentiates partial pressure through a direct salting‐out effect. The net result is a dynamic balance determined for each gas by its diffusivity and salting‐out factor. Because there is an equilibrium between inner medulla and urine (verified for hydrogen gas) these changes in the inner medulla are also reflected in the urine, This analysis is supported by a single‐loop model which predicts a value for maximal sodium concentration in the inner medulla reasonably close to physiological values (particularly if the contribution of urea to salting‐out is included). Low values of helium in urine found during inhalation experiments were also consistent with the model, although there were indications that attenuation takes several hours longer than potentiation for completion. The implications for acute (non‐steady state) experiments are that urine concentrations of non‐ electrolytes will tend to be elevated with respect to blood, a probable example of this being the ethanol concentration of urine in forensic studies.
SILVER DEPOSITION IN RAT GLOMERULAR BASEMENT MEMBRANE
Authors: Ham Kathryn N , Tange JD
Published: November 2007

Silver given in the drinking water of hooded and albino rats is deposited in various tissues and particularly in glomerular basement membrane; individual and strain variations appear to occur. The deposits become aggregated along the endothelial side of the basement membrane. After silver administration has stopped, some silver deposits increase in size; heavy deposits persist in axial basement membrane, and there is a progressive accumulation of silver in axial cells in the peripheral basement membrane the silver deposits decrease in number and eventually disappear. This pattern is consistent with the hypothesis of new formation of glomerular basement membrane by epithelial fells and absorption by axial and endothelial cells.
ANTIGENS IN IMMUNITY. ANTIGEN LOCALIZATION IN CONGENITALLY ATHYMIC “NUDE” MICE
Authors: Mitchell Judith , Pye J , Holmes Margaret C , Nossal GJV
Published: November 2007

This study seeks to establish whether patterns of antigen trapping in lymphoid tissues, and consequent cellular proliferative changes, differ in congenitally athymic “nude” (nu/nu) mice and in their phenotypically normal (nu/ + or +/+) litter‐mate controls. Mice were injected in foot pack with the 125I‐labelled antigens polymerized flagellin from Salmonella adelaide or bovine serum albumin; in some eases passive antibody had been given 4 hours before labelled antigen. Mice were killed at intervals of 1 hour to 10 days after antigen. Radioautographs of sections of spleen and of lymph nodes close to and remote from injection sites were studied. In addition, information relevant to germinal centre formation was obtained from examination of conventional histological sections of nude mice not intentionally immunized, or given a large dose of sheep red blood cells.

The key findings of the study were that, though capacity to develop germinal centres in response to antigenic stimulation was grossly deficient in nude mice, follicular localization of antigen in primary lymphoid follicles was qualitatively normal. There was some quantitative reduction in follicular retention of POL. but this did not appear to be sufficient in degree to account for failure of germinal centre development. Total antigen capture in lymphoid tissue and macrophage antigen localization were both normal in nude mice.

It was concluded that thymus‐derived cells are required, in addition to a specialized antigen‐trapping mechanism in primary lymphoid follicles, for vigorous germinal centre development.