bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Killer Cytotoxicity and Antibody‐Dependent Cell Cytotoxicity to Herpes Simplex Virus‐Infected Target Cells in Murine Pregnancy
Authors: LOFTIN KARIN C. , GONIK BERNARD , KUMARAN PRIYA
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In vitro natural killer cytotoxicity (NKC) and antibody‐dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity against herpes simplex virus (HSV)‐infected cells were evaluated in a pregnant murine model (C57B16inbred strain). Virgin (n = 16) and pregnant (late gestation) mice (n = 15) were infected intraperitoneally with HSV, type 1. After 18 hr, a 0.5‐ml aliquot of the peritoneal wash was frozen for virus plaque assay, and the cells were cultured in the 51chromium release assay for NKC and ADCC. %NKC (mean ± S.E.) to HSV‐infected targets was significantly suppressed (P < 0.05) in pregnant mice, 10.3% ± 1.9, compared to that of virgin mice, 32.5% ± 2.5. This suppression was abrogated with HSV‐specific antisera (%ADCC); 53.9% ± 4.4 (pregnant) compared to 49.1% ± 3.6 (virgin). The diminished NKC activity in pregnant mice was reflected in an increased mean number of virus particles in the peritoneal wash, 266 + 66 PFU/ml, compared to 38 ± 11 PFU/ml in virgin mice (P < 0.05). We concluded that NKC, but not ADCC, to HSV‐infected targets was suppressed and that HSV elimination was impaired in pregnant mice.
Mechanisms of Active Suppression of the Immune Response to Spermatozoa
Authors: WITKIN STEVEN S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The production of autoantibodies to spermatozoa in males and isoantibodies in females is inhibited both by the physical isolation of spermatozoa from the systemic immune system and by active immunosuppression mechanisms. Lymphoid cells present in the epithelial lining of the rete testis, epididymis, and vas deferens, as well as the human ejaculate, are predominantly T suppressor/cytotoxic cells. Mononuclear cells derived from semen inhibit the in vitro activation of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Soluble specific T suppressor/cytotoxic cell activators in semen or on the sperm surface may be responsible for the predominance of this T cell subset in the male reproductive tract. The activation of T suppressor/cytotoxic cells following coitus may also limit the immune response to spermatozoa in females. Spermatozoa can also initiate immunosuppression, either by selectively inducing T suppressor cells or through the generation of activated complement components that block antibody production. Antisperm antibodies in sera from females may be associated with either a deficiency in the ability of their T suppressor/cytotoxic cells to be induced by factors in semen or by the occurrence in their husbands' ejaculates of microorganisms, antibodies, or other factors that induce T helper lymphocytes. Activated T cells produce interferon gamma, which induces Ia antigen expression on macrophages and allows the female's T helper cells to recognize processed sperm antigens. Recognition of the role of cell‐mediated immune functions in the male and female genital tract identifies possible new target sites for the development of contraceptive agents.
Pediatric Gonorrhea: Is it Receiving Adequate Attention?
Authors: ODUGBEMI TOLU , ONILE B.A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: During a 1‐year period, 28 cases of gonococcal infections were confirmed in children whose ages were below 13 years. Of 22 gonococcal isolates from these children, 18 (81.8%) were beta‐lactamase positive. It is remarkable that sexual exposure was established as the mode of transmission of gonorrhea in nine cases. Health education, sex education in schools, and satisfactory microbiology investigations are essential to effective contact tracing and control of gonorrhea.
Hydatidiform Mole Macromolecules Inhibit Interleukin‐2‐Mediated Murine Lymphocyte Proliferation In Vitro
Authors: BENNETT WILLIAM A. , ELLSAESSER CATHERINE F. , COWAN BRYAN D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Macromolecules extracted from hydatidiform mole trophoblast inhibit mitogen‐induced lymphocyte proliferation. To characterize the mechanism of this immunomodulation, we determined the effects of hydatidiform mole vesicle fluid (HMF) and tissue extracts (HME) on lymphokine function in vitro. Utilization of interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) and interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) were determined by using a lymphoma cell line (LBRM‐33‐1A5) and a murine T cell line (CTLL2), respectively. HMF suppressed (P < .05) IL‐2‐dependent CTLL2 cell proliferation at 500 (36.4% of controls) and 50 (74.9% of controls) μg/ml. HME also suppressed CTLL2 proliferation (P < .05) at 500 (46.0% of controls), 100 (67.2% of controls), 50 (71.5% of controls), and 10 (85.4% of controls) μg/culture ml. In contrast, HMF exhibited no effect on IL‐1‐stimulated LBRM‐33‐1A5 production of IL‐2. However, 500 μg/ml of HME inhibited (P < .05) IL‐2 production (63.0% of controls) in the IL‐1 utilization assay. This suppressive effect was probably due to a carry over of HME from the LBRM‐33‐1A5 culture to the target cells (CTLL2) used to measure IL‐2 production. Molecular weight chromatography of an HME sample eluted an IL‐2 inhibitor in a low molecular weight (35–50 kd) and high molecular weight (> 250 kd) fraction. These data suggest that one way in which macromolecules derived from hydatidiform mole could interfere with in vitro immunologic responses is by modulating interleukin‐2 function.
Neutral‐Red Uptake and Expression of Monocytic Antigens in Amniotic‐Fluid Mononuclear Phagocytes: Evaluation of a Novel Approach for Prenatal Diagnosis of Neural‐Tube Defects
Authors: POLGÁR KATALIN , ÁBEL GYÖRGY , SIPKA SÁNDOR , PAPP ZOLTÁN
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In cases of fetal neural‐tube defects macrophages are present in the amniotic fluid. We found that these viable phagocytic cells take up neutral‐red and are easily identified as “red cells” by microscopic examination. This method is suitable for the rapid identification and counting of amniotic‐fluid macrophages in suspension. We have studied 298 amniotic fluid samples. In the 226 normal cases studied, 0 to 1,200 macrophages per milliliter amniotic fluid have been found. In contrast, we found 1,250 to 99,000 macrophages per milliliter amniotic fluid in our 70 open neural tube defect (ONTD) cases. Statistical evaluation was performed to estimate the normal and pathologic ranges. Specificity and sensitivity of the neutral‐red test and predictive value of positive and negative results have been calculated and presented in comparison with alpha‐fetopro‐tein (AFP) determinations and ultrasonic methods. In 5 cases of anencephaly and 7 normal cases amniotic fluid cells were studied by immunocytochemistry: mononuclear cells present in the abnormal cases showed intense immunoreactivity for the Mo1 and Mo2 surface antigens of the phagocytic cell lineage.
Suicide Ideation: Its Relation to Depression, Suicide and Suicide Attempt
Authors: Vandivort Daniel S. , Locke Ben Z.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A random sample of 3,935 adults from a general population were interviewed and asked to report how often they had thoughts of suicide as well as their opinion on the frequency of suicide ideation in others. Depression was found to be related to the respondent's reports of his/her own suicidal thoughts and to reports of frequent suicide ideation in others. A total of 5.4 percent of the respondents reported some degree of suicide ideation in the previous month and 9.1 percent reported that others think about suicide once a month or more. When the demographic characteristics of those who report suicide ideation in themselves or others were compared to those of suicide attempters and committers, some consistencies were found, suggesting that such questions may be useful in identifying those “at risk.” Nevertheless, sufficient discrepancies were found which suggest that there may be a number of factors which increase or decrease the likelihood that someone with thoughts of suicide will attempt or commit suicide. Follow‐up studies are necessary to uncover such factors and the degrees to which they influence the occurrence of suicide.
The Suicide Rate Among Psychiatrists Revisited
Authors: Bergman Jerry
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A review of the literature which examined the suicide rate among psychiatrists and other doctors was made. Particular attention was given to statistical and methodological problems. Common problems include small research sampling, inappropriate comparisons, lack of controls for age, sex, or other relevant factors, interpolating rates from a level per 10,000 to a level per 100,000, and inclusion of a number of unwarranted assumptions. The review did not find evidence that the suicide rate among psychiatrists is higher compared to the population as a whole; nor is there any evidence that the rates of any medical specialty are above average, controlling for the relevant variables. The materials reviewed included all published studies. In order adequately to assess the suicide rate among psychiatrists, a systematic and extensive study must be made, controlling for the relevant methodological variables.
Munchausen Syndrome and Necrophilia
Authors: Faguet Robert A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Munchausen syndrome and necrophilia are uncommon disorders which do not appear to be related. It is suggested, however, that both of them center on “return to the womb” fantasies and may represent variants of each other. Specifically, the Munchausen patient's symptom triad (factitious illness, peregrination, pseudologia fantastica) is seen to reflect a wish for death and reunion with the maternal object.
D.H. Lawrence and Modern Destructiveness
Authors: Gutierrez Donald
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This article discusses twentieth century societal destructiveness as reflected in four key prose works by D.H. Lawrence—the novels Sons and Lovers, Women in Love, Lady Chatterley's Lover and the early travel book Twilight in Italy. Sons and Lovers, which projects the young Lawrence persona's struggle between life and death, partly accounts for a deepening sensitivity to life and death in modern society in Lawrence's subsequent works. It is seen that Lawrence's writings depict the perilous trends today towards the mechanization of our fundamental being, and the resultant life‐threatening qualities of sensationalism and reduction of the individual inner life.
Suicide in Denmark: A Statistical Review for the Past 150 Years
Authors: Paerregaard Grethe
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This paper presents a survey of suicide in Denmark from the time when statistics were first kept 100 years ago, up to the present. The remarkable high suicide rate at the start is discussed. The belief that suicide rate is influenced by several factors outside the individual, factors which to some extent can be influenced, is supported by the great variability of the suicide index during the last 100–150 years, being 29.9 in 1861, 12.8 in 1918 and 26 in 1976. The distribution according to sex and age today compared to 100 years ago suggests that the present social‐political arrangements in Denmark have helped many elements of the population, especially the youngest and the eldest, and especially the men. However, among women 35 to 70 years old and especially those between 45 and 55 the suicide rate has increased. One possible explanation is today's greater number of divorces with all the troubles that follow. Finally, the changing of suicide methods is discussed.
Interventions for Suicidal Children and Their Parents
Authors: Pfeffer Cynthia R.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Five features of the family organization of suicidal children include family inhibition of change, lack of defined generational boundaries, severity of spouse conflict, projection of inappropriate parental feelings onto the child, and a symbiotic parent‐child interaction. The treatment of suicidal children must encompass a holistic family technique. The acute phases of treatment include protecting the child from harm, promoting family recognition of the seriousness of the child's suicidal behavior, promoting appropriate parental role responsibilities, and effecting an immediate significant family change. During the long‐term process of treatment, attention must be focused on the child's unique psychopathology, the conflicts that preclude appropriate parental response to the child's needs, and the characterological difficulties of each parent.
A Comparison of the Effects of Prejob Training and Job Experience on Nonprofessional Telephone Crisis Counselors
Authors: Elkins Randell L. , Cohen Carol R.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This study, carried out in a telephone crisis intervention program in which nonprofessional volunteer counselors received 55 hours of prejob training, isolates the effects of prejob training and on‐the‐job experience. Participants in the study were evaluated on several parameters including knowledge, counseling skills, acceptance of others, and dogmatism. Three groups of volunteers were measured: group 1—measured immediately before and after prejob training, group 2—measured just after prejob training, and group 3—measured after five months of telephone counseling experience. Results indicate that counselor skills and knowledge significantly increased with prejob training, but did not show further improvement as a result of five months of experience. Attitudes such as acceptance of others and dogmatism did not change either as a result of training or experience. Dogmatism was found to be inversely related to both counselor skill and knowledge.
Genuine versus Simulated Suicide Notes: An Issue Revisited Through Discourse Analysis
Authors: Edelman Ann M. , Renshaw Steven L.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Classic studies of written suicide notes have sought to develop criteria for discriminating genuine from simulated notes. In this article, the authors provide a method of discourse analysis and apply this method to the discrimination of genuine from simulated notes used in previous studies. Reports of significant differences among language measures as well as the results of a multiple discriminant analysis using the discourse analysis are reported. In addition, a language profile of the suicidal individual is given along with suggestions for research and clinical use of the method.
The Preventive Effect of Strict Gun Control Laws On Suicide and Homicide
Authors: Lester David , Murrell Mary E.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: States with stricter handgun control laws in 1968 were shown to have lower suicide rates by firearms both in 1960 and in 1970. These states also had higher rates of suicide by “other means.” In contrast, no such effect of strict handgun control laws was found for mortality from homicide by firearms. More detailed analyses indicated that restrictions on selling and buying handguns were more important than restrictions on carrying handguns.
Attributes of Suicide in Females
Authors: Bourque Linda B. , Kraus Jess F. , Cosand Beverly J.
Published: December 2015

Long‐term trends in suicides among females were investigated using data from Sacramento County, California. Of the 3,741 cases, 3,398 were Caucasian and 952 (25.4 percent) were females. These analyses focus on 837 Caucasian and Hispanic females. Female suicide rates in Sacramento County have increased gradually since 1925 with a corresponding decline in the male/female sex ratio. The suicide data suggest that a minimum of three types of female suicides can be identified and that the incidence of each type varies with the age of the women. Indicators that help in identifying cases and in tentatively describing an etiology include marital status, employment status and occupation, physical ill health, familial loss or disruption, and psychiatric symptoms.
Family Loss and Hospital Suicide
Authors: Conroy Robert W. , Smith Kim
Published: December 2015

In 19 consecutive cases of inpatient suicide occurring over many years, 18 out of the 19 cases (95 percent) were judged to have a significant “family” loss issue affecting the suicide. In five cases (26 percent), there seemed to be a powerful institutional attachment and loss threatened that attachment. In 13 cases (68 percent), a major family issue was involved which included events that estranged the patient from the family (real or imagined); divorce or separation issues; death or illness of a significant other; a family that insisted on continued treatment (and/or growth). In 13 cases (68 percent), significant communication from or about the “family” occurred which seemed to have an impact on the suicidal behavior often within days of the final event. In 10 cases (53 percent), an actual family visit had occurred within two weeks of the death. These issues are discussed and case examples presented.
An Unusual Case of Self‐inflicted Death in Childhood
Authors: Eth Spencer , Pynoos Robert S. , Carlson Gabrielle A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The authors report the details of the case of a ten year old boy whose self‐inflicted death by gunshot featured the involvement of a nine year old companion. The authors examine the material from the viewpoints of a possible case of suicide, of a certain case of violent death, and of a case with repercussions on the other child and the community.
Lethality of Suicide Attempt Rating Scale
Authors: Smith K. , Conroy R.W. , Ehler B.D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: An 11‐point (0–10) scale for measuring the degree of lethality of suicide attempts is presented. The scale has nine example “anchors” and uses the relative lethality of an extensive table of drugs. The psychometric studies show the scale to be of at least equal‐interval, possibly even ratio measurement level. The equal‐interval quality allows suicidal behaviors to be specified in numeric relationship to each other relieving us of the burden of using unquantified labels such as “mild,” “moderate,” and “serious.” Having a standardized, commonly used reference scale should greatly facilitate our research and clinical efforts to communicate our findings. The scale can be used reliably by nonmedical personnel with no prior training.
A Proposed Curriculum on Suicide Care for Psychiatry Residency
Authors: Lomax James W.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This paper discusses suicide care as a core curriculum component of psychiatry residency. The reasons for formal conceptualization of suicide care education are discussed, and a model curriculum is offered. The model is in no way intended to be restrictive, but is offered as a reference point for residency programs to compare their own activities in this important area of psychiatry. The paper grew from discussion of this topic in the Core Curriculum Committee of the American Association Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training.
Suicide and Homicide Rates: Their Relationship to Latitude and Longitude and to the Weather
Authors: Lester David
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The variation of suicide and homicide rates in the major standard metropolitan statistical areas of the United States was explored to see whether regional variations in temperature and precipitation could account for some of the variation. Controls for temperature eliminated the North–South variation in suicide rates, but not the North–South variation in homicide rates or the East–West variation in suicide rates. Only the correlation between precipitation and homicide rates survived controls for latitutde and longitude.
Suicide, Homicide, and the Quality of Life: An Archival Study
Authors: Lester David
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A study of the various United States as of 1940 showed that suicide rates were higher and homicide rates were lower in states where the quality of life was higher. These findings support a hypothesis derived from Henry and Short's theory of suicide and homicide.
States' Public Welfare Expenditures as Predictors of State Suicide Rates
Authors: Zimmerman Shirley L.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This exploratory multiple‐regression study took its cue from social integration theory to examine the relative importance of state per capita expenditures for public welfare in predicting state suicide rates when controlling for the effects of state divorce rates, state population change rates, and the percentage of persons with annual incomes between $10,000 and $19,999. While the four variables together accounted for .73 of the explained variance in state suicide rates, the effects of state per capita expenditures for public welfare were not very important when those of the other variables were taken into account. This, however, does not mean that state per capita expenditures for public welfare are inconsequential with respect to state suicide rates, inasmuch as they were inversely related to each of the other three independent variables, each of which was positively related to state suicide rates. This means that state per capita expenditures are indirectly related to suicide—in a negative direction. The implications of the findings for policy and suicide prevention are briefly discussed.
Cognitive Predictors of Depression and Suicide Ideation
Authors: Prezant Daniel W. , Neimeyer Robert A.
Published: December 2015

A total of 136 adult subjects who met the Research Diagnostic Criteria for major (unipolar) depression were assessed for intensity of depressive symptomatology (using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and the Beck Depression Inventory) and for lethality of current suicide ideation (using the Scale for Suicide Ideation). In addition, they were administered a variety of questionnaires assessing cognitive variables presumed to mediate depression and suicidality. Multiple regression analyses indicated that depressive symptomatology was best predicted by Beck's Hopelessness Scale in combination with the Detachment factor of the Crandell Cognitions Inventory. In addition, suicidality was significantly predicted by the Selective Abstraction and Overgeneralization factors of Lefebvre's Cognitive Error Questionnaire, when the effects of the Beck Depression Inventory were partialed out. The practical implications of these findings for discriminating suicidal from nonsuicidal depressives are discussed.
The Participation of Females in the Labor Force and Rates of Personal Violence (Suicide and Homicide)
Authors: Yang Bijou , Lester David
Published: December 2015

This study explored the relationship between the participation of married women in the labor force, both part‐time and full‐time, and rates of personal violence (suicide and homicide) in the continental United States. The participation of married women in the labor force was related to homicide rates. Homicide rates were higher in states where a greater percentage of married women worked full‐time. In contrast, suicide rates were more strongly related to indices of social integration (e.g., interstate migration and divorce rates). These results are discussed in terms of differences in social attitudes in the various regions of the United States and the stresses created by women's working.
Short‐Term Suicide Awareness Curriculum
Authors: Abbey Karen J. , Madsen Charles H. , Polland Ronald
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The present study attempted to determine the effectiveness of a suicide awareness curriculum and to assess two methods of presenting the information. It was hypothesized that students receiving instruction via lectures and handouts would score significantly higher than students who only received handouts. Dependent variables included the Suicide Intervention Response Inventory (SIRI), the Knowledge of Suicide Test (KOST), the Suicide Prevention Questionnaire (SPQ), and specific suicide‐related vignettes. There was a significant main effect for treatment. Univariate analyses demonstrated significant treatment effects for all dependent measures. Two orthogonal contrasts demonstrated significant differences on the KOST and the vignettes, suggesting that the lectures were instrumental in the increased performance on those tasks.
Dermatomyositis: factors predicting relapse
Authors: Vuong V. , Duong T.A. , Aouizerate J. , Authier F.J. , Ingen‐Housz‐Oro S. , Valeyrie‐Allanore L. , Ortonne N. , Wolkenstein P. , Gherardi R.K. , Chosidow O. , Cosnes A. , Sbidian E.
Published: December 2015

Background

The course of dermatomyositis (DM) can be chronic with relapses, which are associated with major morbidity.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify presentation features that predict DM relapses.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of patients with DM recorded from 1990 to 2011, including muscle biopsy results. Characteristics of patients with and without relapses were compared. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using a Cox model.

Results

We identified 34 patients, with a mean age of 46 ± 17 years (range, 18–77) and 24 (71%) women. The muscle and skin abnormalities relapsed in 21 (61%) patients. By univariate analysis, two presentation features were significantly associated with a subsequently relapsing course, namely, dysphonia [HR = 3.2 (1.2–8.5)] and greater skin lesion severity defined as a Cutaneous Disease Area Severity Index [CDASI] > 20 [HR = 3.5 (1.2–7.9)].

Conclusion

Dysphonia and skin lesion severity at disease onset must be recorded, as they significantly predict a relapsing disease course.
Inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling reduces multidrug transporter activity and anti‐epileptic drug resistance in refractory epileptic rats
Authors: Shao Yiye , Wang Cuicui , Hong Zhen , Chen Yinghui
Published: December 2015

It is widely recognized that P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) mediates drug resistance in refractory epilepsy. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the up‐regulation of P‐gp expression remains unclear. Our previous studies have demonstrated that p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) regulates P‐gp expression in cultured K562 cells. However, a lack of in vivo research leaves unanswered questions regarding whether p38MAPK regulates P‐gp expression or drug resistance in refractory epilepsy. This in vivo study examined the effects of p38MAPK on the expression of P‐gp and mdr1 in the rat brain and quantified antiepileptic drug (AED) concentrations in the hippocampal extracellular fluid. In addition, the role of p38MAPK in electrical and behavioral activity in a rat epilepsy model was studied. The results indicated that p38MAPK inhibition by SB202190 reduced P‐gp expression, while increasing AED concentration in the hippocampal extracellular fluid in refractory epileptic rats. SB202190 also reduced the resistance to AEDs in drug‐resistant rats and significantly reduced the severity of seizure activity. These results suggest that p38MAPK could participate in drug resistance in refractory epilepsy through the regulation of P‐gp.

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We show that the specific inhibitor of p38MAPK could down‐regulate the expression of multidrug transporter (P‐glycoprotein) in blood–brain barrier, increase the concentration of antiepileptic drugs in the hippocampal extracellular fluid and reduce anti‐epileptic drug resistance in refractory epileptic rats. We propose that the p38MAPK signaling pathway participates in drug resistance in refractory epilepsy through the regulation of P‐glycoprotein expression.
COMMUTING TIME AND HOUSEHOLD RESPONSIBILITIES: EVIDENCE USING PROPENSITY SCORE MATCHING
Authors: Gimenez‐Nadal J. Ignacio , Molina José Alberto
Published: December 2015

We examine the relationship between individual commuting behavior and household responsibilities, with a focus on gender differences in that relationship. Using the Dutch Time Use Survey for the years 2000 and 2005, we analyze the relationship between commuting time, home production, and childcare. To deal with reverse causality, we use Propenstity Score Matching techniques to obtain imputed data for individuals. We find that the effect of home production on commuting time for women is more than double that for men, while childcare time has an effect on women's commuting behavior only. Our results shedding light on the Household Responsibility Hypothesis.
Dynamic distributions of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha and its receptors in the red nucleus of rats with spared nerve injury
Authors: Wang Jing , Ding Cui‐Ping , Yu Jing , Zeng Xiao‐Yan , Han Shui‐Ping , Wang Jun‐Yang
Published: December 2015

Previous studies have demonstrated that tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) in the red nucleus (RN) plays a facilitated role in the development of neuropathic pain, and its effect is transmitted through TNF‐α receptor (TNFR) subtypes 1 and 2. Here, the dynamic distributions of TNF‐α and TNFRs in the RN of rats with spared nerve injury (SNI) were investigated. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining indicated that TNF‐α was hardly expressed in the RN of normal rats but significantly increased at 1 week and peaked at 2 weeks after SNI. Neurons and oligodendrocytes showed TNF‐α expression at both 1 week and 2 weeks after SNI, while astrocytes and microglia produced TNF‐α later than neurons and oligodendrocytes starting at 2 weeks after SNI. TNFR1 was constitutively expressed in the RN of normal rats and significantly enhanced at 2 weeks but not 1 week after SNI; it was mainly localized in neurons, oligodendrocytes and microglia. Astrocytes were not immunopositive for TNFR1 under normal conditions and at 1 week after injury, but small amounts of astrocytes showed TNFR1 expression at 2 weeks after SNI. A low level of TNFR2 was expressed in the RN of normal rats, but it was significantly increased at 1 week and 2 weeks after SNI and localized in neurons and all three types of glia. These findings suggest that neurons and three types of glia in the RN all contribute to TNF‐α production and participate in the initiation and/or maintenance of neuropathic pain induced by SNI. TNF‐α exerts its effects in different types of cells maybe through different receptors, TNFR1 and/or TNFR2, in the different stages of neuropathic pain.
Do endoflip assessments of anal sphincter distensibility provide more information on patients with fecal incontinence than high‐resolution anal manometry?
Authors: Gourcerol G. , Granier S. , Bridoux V. , Menard J. F. , Ducrotté P. , Leroi A. M.
Published: December 2015

Background

Anal manometry is the standard technique for evaluating anal sphincter function. However, the functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIP®) can be used to measure sphincter distensibility during volume‐controlled distensions. Our aims were (i) to assess anal distensibility in patients with fecal incontinence (FI) and in healthy subjects using the EndoFLIP® and (ii) to compare the results with anal pressures measured by 3D high‐resolution manometry (3D‐HRM) to determine whether the EndoFLIP® was more sensitive and specific for diagnosing FI than 3D‐HRM.

Methods

EndoFLIP® and 3D‐HRM assessments of 34 female FI patients and 40 healthy female subjects were performed. Anal distensibility was measured as the median cross‐sectional area at the narrowest point divided by the corresponding intra‐bag pressure at rest and during peak voluntary contraction and was expressed in mm2/mmHg.

Key Results

A 40‐mL anal distensibility index was selected for further comparisons as it provided the best discrimination between the FI patients and the healthy subjects. The index was significantly higher in the FI patients than in the healthy subjects at rest (p = 1.10−4) and during voluntary contraction (p = 1.10−4). The index at rest and during voluntary contraction appeared to be more appropriate than anal pressures for discriminating between FI patients and healthy subjects.

Conclusions & Inferences

The present study confirmed that FI is associated with an abnormally high distensibility index at rest and during voluntary contraction. The ability of the distensibility index to discriminate between FI patients and healthy subjects was significantly better than anal pressure.
Successful management of multilineage autoimmune cytopenia complicated with severe infection and deep vein thrombosis in a patient with Hodgkin lymphoma post‐autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Hsu Wan‐Yi , Chiou Shyh‐Shin , Liao Yu‐Mei , Shu Hsiu‐Lan , Zeng Yu‐Sheng , Wong Cheong‐Chew , Lin Pei‐Chin
Published: December 2015

Autoimmune cytopenia (AIHA, AITP or AIN) were uncommon paraneoplastic manifestations of HL and have been recognized in patients after HSCT with dismal outcome. We presented a case of 16‐yr‐old male with Hodgkin's lymphoma who developed severe AIC involving all three cell lineages after autologus bone marrow transplantation. No disease relapse was noted. Treatments with steroid, IVIG and immunosuppresants were in vain and the disease course was complicated with sepsis and deep vein thrombosis. Rituximab was administered along with broad‐spectrum antibiotics and low‐molecular weight heparin. The condition became stable and pancytopenia recovered after four doses of rituximab treatment. Severe multi‐lineage AIC post HSCT is usually refractory to first‐line treatment and difficult to manage. Second‐line treatment, such as rituximab, and dedicated care for pancytopenia‐induced or treatment‐related complications may provide a better outcome.
Spatial and temporal regulation of sterol biosynthesis in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Suza Walter P. , Chappell Joe
Published: December 2015

Nicotiana benthamiana was used as a model to investigate the spatial and developmental relationship between sterol synthesis rates and sterol content in plants. Stigmasterol levels were approximately twice the level in roots as that found in aerial tissues, while its progenitor sterol sitosterol was the inverse. When incorporation of radiolabeled precursors into sterols was used as measure of in vivo synthesis rates, acetate incorporation was similar across all tissue types, but approximately twofold greater in roots than any other tissue. In contrast, mevalonate incorporation exhibited the greatest differential with the rate of incorporation in roots approximately one‐tenth that in apical shoots. Similar to acetate, incorporation of farnesol was higher in roots but remained fairly constant in aerial tissues, suggesting less regulation of the downstream sterol biosynthetic steps. Consistent with the precursor incorporation data, analysis of gene transcript and measurements of putative rate‐limiting enzyme activities for 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A synthase (EC 2.3.3.10) and reductase (EC 1.1.1.34) showed the greatest modulation of levels, while the activity levels for isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (EC 5.3.3.2) and prenyltransferases (EC 2.5.1.10 and EC 2.5.1.1) also exhibited a strong but moderate correlation with the development age of the aerial tissues of the plants. Overall, the data suggest a multitude of means from transcriptional to posttranslational control affecting sterol biosynthesis and accumulation across an entire plant, and point to some particular control points that might be manipulated using molecular genetic approaches to better probe the role of sterols in plant growth and development.
A parallel root-finding algorithm
Authors: Nijmeijer M. J. P.
Published: December 2015

We present a parallel algorithm to calculate a numerical approximation of a single, isolated root${\it\alpha}$of a function$f:\mathbb{R}\rightarrow \mathbb{R}$which is sufficiently regular at and around${\it\alpha}$. The algorithm is derivative free and performs one function evaluation on each processor per iteration. It requires at least three processors and can be scaled up to any number of these. The order with which the generated sequence of approximants converges to${\it\alpha}$is equal to$(n+\sqrt{n^{2}+4})/2$for$n+1$processors with$n\geqslant 2$. This assumes that particular combinations of the derivatives of$f$do not vanish at${\it\alpha}$.
STUDIES ON THE PITUITARY.—VI. LOCALISATION AND PHYLETIC DISTRIBUTION OF ACTIVE MATERIALS
Authors: Hogben Lancelot T. , de Beer Gavin R.
Published: December 2015

1. The oxytocic and avine depressor responses are given by extracts of the pituitary of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, bony and cartilaginous fishes ; but the activity of extracts of the elasmobranch pituitary is in both respects so small compared with that of extracts of the teleost that no special significance can be attached to the failure of attempts to obtain a rise in blood‐pressure from extracts of the skate's gland.

2. Comparison of the pressor and oxytocic activity of the same extracts of three separate samples of fresh bovine glands with
Dale's uterine technique and the method of pressor standardisation outlined in a previous contribution to this series yielded results consistent with
Herring's conclusion that, as compared with extracts of the pars nervosa, extracts of the pars inter media have a higher oxytocic than pressor activity.

3. It is incorrect to state that there is no nervous tissue in the elasmobranch pituitary, though the nervous element is small in amount.

4. In the present state of knowledge it is perhaps premature to conclude either that the pressor and oxytocic material originate in the cells of the pars inter media or that they pass directly into the cerebrospinal fluid via the pars nervosa.
LIBERATION OF ACETYLCHOLINE FROM THE PERFUSED CAT'S BRAIN
Authors: Chute A. L. , Feldberg W. , Smyth D. H.
Published: December 2015

The almost completely isolated cat's brain was perfused with 50 per cent. defibrinated blood. The addition of eserine to it produced increased reflex‐excitability with spontaneous movements followed by depression, and caused the appearance in the blood of small amounts of acetylcholine which were liberated from the brain. This liberation was temporarily increased by the injection of KCl.
Angiopoietin‐like 4 promotes angiogenesis in the tendon and is increased in cyclically loaded tendon fibroblasts
Authors: Mousavizadeh Rouhollah , Scott Alex , Lu Alex , Ardekani Gholamreza S , Behzad Hayedeh , Lundgreen Kirsten , Ghaffari Mazyar , McCormack Robert G , Duronio Vincent
Published: December 2015

Key points

Angiopoietin‐like 4 (ANGPTL4) modulates tendon neovascularization.

Cyclic loading stimulates the activity of transforming growth factor‐β and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α and thereby increases the expression and release of ANGPTL4 from human tendon cells.

Targeting ANGPTL4 and its regulatory pathways is a potential avenue for regulating tendon vascularization to improve tendon healing or adaptation.

The mechanisms that regulate angiogenic activity in injured or mechanically loaded tendons are poorly understood. The present study examined the potential role of angiopoietin‐like 4 (ANGPTL4) in the angiogenic response of tendons subjected to repetitive mechanical loading or injury. Cyclic stretching of human tendon fibroblasts stimulated the expression and release of ANGPTL4 protein via transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) signalling, and the released ANGPTL4 was pro‐angiogenic. Angiogenic activity was increased following ANGPTL4 injection into mouse patellar tendons, whereas the patellar tendons of ANGPTL4 knockout mice displayed reduced angiogenesis following injury. In human rotator cuff tendons, the expression of ANGPTL4 was correlated with the density of tendon endothelial cells. To our knowledge, this is the first study characterizing a role of ANGPTL4 in the tendon. ANGPTL4 may assist in the regulation of vascularity in the injured or mechanically loaded tendon. TGF‐β and HIF‐1α comprise two signalling pathways that modulate the expression of ANGPTL4 by mechanically stimulated tendon fibroblasts and, in the future, these could be manipulated to influence tendon healing or adaptation.
On the predominantly single innervation of submandibular ganglion cells in the rat.
Authors: Lichtman J W
Published: December 2015

1. Simultaneous intracellular recordings were made from pairs of submandibular ganglion cells to examine why each of these neurons is generally innervated by a single preganglionic axon. 2. Impalements made within isolated clusters of two to fifty cells showed that a preganglionic axon typically innervates several neurons within a group. 3. The neurones innervated by a particular axon tended to be intermingled with other neurons; some neurons were innervated by an axon that was not shared by any of their immediate neighbours. 4. These results indicate a mechanism that causes a preganglionic axon to innervate exclusively many of the neurones it contacts, presumably by successful competition with nearby axons that initially innervate the same cells and continue to provide innervation to neighbouring neurones. 5. Re‐innervation of adult ganglion cells shows that this mechanism persists or can be reactivated in maturity.
Electrical properties of individual cells isolated from adult rat ventricular myocardium.
Authors: Powell T , Terrar D A , Twist V W
Published: December 2015

1. Individual cells were isolated from adult rats ventricular myocardium by a collagenase digestion procedure. 2. Steady membrane potentials recorded with conventional intracellular glass micro‐electrodes from cells in a modified Krebs solution containing 3 . 8 mM‐KCl and 0 . 5 mM‐CaCl2 were less negative than ‐40 mV in most cells (‐25 . 3 +/‐ 10 . 9 mV, mean +/‐ S.D., 211 cells). 3. After addition of the potassium selective ionophore valinomycin (60 nM) to the bathing solution all recorded membrane potentials were more negative than ‐60 mV (‐74 . 8 +/‐ 7 . 0 mV, sixty‐three cells). 4. The internal concentration of potassium in the cells was determined as 120 . 8 +/‐ 1 . 7 mM (+/‐ S.E., n = 24) by flame emission spectrometry after centrifugation through silicone oil, using tritiated water and D‐[1‐14C] mannitol to estimate total and extracellular water in the pellet. 5. In the majority of cells in the standard solution the membrane potential recorded within a few msec of penetration was more negative than ‐70 mV (‐78 . 4 +/‐ 9 . 7 mV, seventy‐three cells). In sixty‐six cells penetration initiated an action potential which overshot zero by 31 . 3 +/‐ 7 . 1 mV. This overshoot was abolished by reducing the external sodium to 0 . 1 of the normal value, and reduced or abolished by addition of tetrodotoxin (30 microM). 6. Modifications of the standard bathing solution which increased the number of cells with steady recorded membrane potentials more negative than ‐60 mV were: isosmotic substitution of sucrose for NaCl; replacement of NaCl and KCl by sodium isethionate and potassium methyl sulphate; addition of 5 or 10 mM‐CaCl2; addition of 10 mM‐MnCl2. 7. For cells in solution containing 2 . 5 or 5 . 5 mM‐CaCl2, input resistances estimated from the amplitude of hyperpolarizations evoked by 200 msec current pulses were approximately 40 M omega at a resting potential close to ‐80 mV and became much greater as cells were depolarized. Time constants measured at the resting potential were approximately 8 msec. 8. In certain conditions, repeated spontaneous action potentials were recorded from contracting cells, and in quiescent cells evoked action potentials could be initiated by applying brief depolarizing pulses through the micro‐electrode. Action potentials were coincident with contractions. 9. It is concluded that the resting potential of these isolated cells is normally more negative than ‐70 mV, and that the cells retain the ionic mechanisms necessary for the generation of active currents.
Mechanisms of glycyl‐L‐leucine uptake by guinea‐pig small intestine: relative importance of intact‐peptide transport.
Authors: Himukai M , Hoshi T
Published: December 2015

1. Characteristics of glycyl‐L‐leucine influx across the mucosal border of isolated guinea‐pig ileum have been investigated. The influx of the peptide was measured with glycine‐labelled or leucine‐labelled compounds (Gly*‐Leu or Gly‐Leu*) and compared with that of a constituent amino acids under various experimental conditions 2. Gly‐Leu* influx over a wide range of peptide concentrations. The latter obeyed simple Michaelis‐‐Menten kinetics whereas the former could be described in terms of two saturable components. 3. Total replacement of medium Na with mannitol had no effect on Gly*‐Leu influx, while it markedly reduced Gly‐Leu* influx to a level slightly greater than Gly*‐Leu influx. L‐Leucine influx was partially dependent on Na in contrast to glycine influx which was absolutely dependent on Na. 4. Gly*‐Leu influx was not inhibited by the simultaneous presence of glycine or L‐isoleucine, while Gly‐Leu* influx was strongly inhibited by L‐leucine and L‐isoleucine. Gly‐Leu* influx under submaximal inhibition by L‐isoleucine was about the same as Gly*‐Leu influx. Di‐ or tri‐glycine did not inhibit glycyl‐L‐leucine influx, while glycyl‐L‐leucine markedly inhibited diglycine influx, the inhibition being not competitive but of the mixed type. 5. A Michaelis‐‐Menten type relation was observed for the increment in the transmural potential induced by glycyl‐L‐leucine, L‐leucine or the mixture of the dipeptide and L‐leucine. In all cases, the values of the maximum potential change were identical, suggesting that a single electrogenic transfer mechanism was operating in these cases. 6. It is concluded that about a half of glycyl‐L‐leucine influx is mediated by a carrier system for intact glycyl‐L‐leucine which is independent of sodium, and the other half is transported as L‐leucine after membrane surface hydrolysis, part of this component being sodium‐dependent and electrogenic. It is also suggested that the carrier sites for glycyl‐L‐leucine and glycylglycine are very closely located but separated.
Induced changes in the thresholds for voluntary activation of human spindle endings.
Authors: Burke D , McKeon B , Westerman R A
Published: December 2015

1. Recordings were made from forty‐two muscle spindle afferents from the pre‐tibial muscles of human subjects. For each afferent, the contraction level at which its discharge accelerated (its ‘threshold for activation') was defined using isometric voluntary contractions of the receptor‐bearing muscle. The effects on these thresholds of various manoeuvres designed to activate descending pathways or segmental sensory inputs were studied to determine whether the balance between the skeletomotor and fusimotor drives to the contracting muscle could be altered. 2. The Jendrassik reinforcement manoeuvre raised the threshold for voluntary activation of one spindle ending slightly but had no significant effect with seven other endings. It is concluded that the Jendrassik manoeuvre does not excite fusimotor neurons selectively or even preferentially. 3. Caloric vestibular stimulation altered the thresholds for voluntary activation of eight of eleven spindle endings, the most common effect being lowering of the threshold during the irrigation and for 1‐‐1 . 5 min after its cessation. 4. Cutaneous stimulation by vibration lowered the thresholds for voluntary activation of some spindle endings when applied to the dorsum of the foot, and raised thresholds when applied to the lateral plantar surface. 5. Passive stretch of the receptor‐bearing muscle by plantar flexion of the ankle and passive stretch of synergistic muscles in isolation raised thresholds for spindle activation; passive stretch or vibration of triceps surae lowered thresholds. 6. These studies suggest that the relationship between the skeletomotor and fusimotor drives to a muscle during a voluntary contraction is not rigidly fixed, but can be varied appropriately with the changing motor role demanded of the muscle by supraspinal drives and with the changes in sensory feed‐back generated by the movement itself. 7. It is concluded that, provided the skeletomotor effects of a stimulus are known, changes in the threshold for spindle activation in a voluntary contraction can provide a means of determining the effects of that stimulus on fusimotor neurons even when the stimulus alone is not adequate to alter fusimotor drive.