bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of ribosomal RNA genes in pre‐implantation In Vitro‐produced and nuclear transfer bovine embryos
Authors: Laurincik J , Zakhartchenko V , Avery B , Stojkovic M , Brem G , Wolf E , Müller M , Hyttel P
Published: March 2003

Contents Transcription of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes occurs in the nucleolus resulting in ribosome synthesis. The rRNA gene activation and the associated nucleolus formation may be used as a marker for the activation of the embryonic genome in mammalian embryos and, thus, serve to evaluate the developmental potential of embryos originating from different embryo technological procedures. In bovine in‐vitro‐produced embryos, functional ribosome‐synthesizing nucleoli become structurally recognizable towards the end of the fourth post‐fertilization cell cycle. A range of important nucleolar proteins (e.g. fibrillarin, nucleophosmin, nucleolin, topoisomerase I, upstream binding factor and RNA polymerase I) become localized to the nucleolar anlage over several cell cycles and this localization is completed towards the end of the fourth cell cycle. In nuclear transfer embryos originating from day 5–6 in‐vitro‐produced bovine embryos, fully developed nucleoli are apparently detected one cell cycle later, and a substantial proportion of the nuclear transfer embryos display aberrations in protein localization in one or more blastomeres. This information may help to explain the abnormalities observed in a proportion of fetuses and offspring derived from nuclear transfer embryos.
Faecal Oestrogens and Progesterone Metabolites in Mares of Different Breeds During the Last Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Palme R , Entenfellner U , Hoi H , Möstl E
Published: March 2003

Non‐invasive pregnancy diagnosis in mares by measuring faecal oestrogens has been performed over years with great accuracy. However, results have indicated breed‐related differences in the amount of excreted steroids during late pregnancy. Therefore faecal samples were collected during the last 4 months of pregnancy of Thoroughbred (n=10), New Forest pony (n=9), Shetland pony (n=10) and Iceland pony mares (n=11). Concentrations of oestrogens, 20α‐hydroxy‐ and 20‐oxopregnanes were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Breed differences concerning both levels (though significant only in case of oestrogens) and time course of measured steroids were observed. There was a highly significant time effect (p < 0.00001) and an interaction between time and breeds (p < 0.02) for all steroids measured, suggesting that the time effect differs for different breeds. Oestrogen concentrations showed a decrease towards parturition, whereas in 20α‐hydroxy‐ and 20‐oxopregnane levels a pronounced increase was found 2 and 1 months, respectively, before parturition. A breed effect was only significant (p=0.001) when comparing oestrogen concentrations and was mainly due to Iceland ponies, which had the lowest concentrations especially during the last 2 months of pregnancy. An almost significant (p=0.06) breed effect was found for 20‐oxopregnanes. In Iceland mares an additional increase in faecal pregnane content was already observed earlier, reaching maximum levels before the 60th day ante‐partum (a.p.), followed by a decrease until the 30th day a.p. The ratio of 20‐oxopregnanes to oestrogens in the samples was significantly higher (p < 0.006) in Iceland ponies in comparison with any other breed throughout all months before parturition. The breed differences observed in the amounts of oestrogens and/or progestagens present during late pregnancy may demonstrate micro‐evolutionary changes in the endocrine system of a species.
Natural killer cell proliferation induced by anti‐NK1.1 and IL‐2
Authors: Reichlin Amy , Yokoyama Wayne M
Published: March 2003

NKR‐P1 molecules are involved in natural killing of certain tumour targets. Indeed, the NK1.1 (NKR‐P1C) molecule is the most specific serological marker on murine NK cells in C57BL/6 mice. Previous studies of NKR‐P1 have indicated that anti‐NKR‐P1 mAb induced NK cells to kill otherwise insensitive targets, NK cell phosphoinositol turnover and Ca++ flux but it was not previously known if all NK cells were activated. In this study we report that immobilized anti‐NK1.1 also specifically induced proliferation as measured by thymidine incorporation. The response required low doses of IL‐2 for a synergistic effect. Cells stimulated with anti‐NK1.1 + IL‐2 displayed characteristic cytolytic activity against a NK‐sensitive tumour target, YAC‐1. However, anti‐NK1.1‐stimulated cells displayed delayed proliferation kinetics, heterogeneity of the expression of the very early antigen marker, CD69, and altered expression of the Ly‐49 family members when compared to NK cells activated by high concentrations of IL‐2. Taken together, these data demonstrate that immobilized anti‐NK1.1 triggers only a subpopulation of NK cells.
Structurally well‐defined macrophage activating factor derived from vitamin D3‐binding protein has a potent adjuvant activity for immunization
Authors: Yamamoto Nobuto , Naraparaju Venkateswara R
Published: March 2003

Freund's adjuvant produced severe inflammation that augments development of antibodies. Thus, mixed administration of antigens with adjuvant was not required as long as inflammation was induced in the hosts. Since macrophage activation for phagocytosis and antigen processing is the first step of antibody development, inflammation‐primed macrophage activation plays a major role in immune development. Therefore, macrophage activating factor should act as an adjuvant for immunization. The inflammation‐primed macrophage activation process is the major macrophage activating cascade that requires participation of serum vitamin D3‐binding protein (DBP; human DBP is known as Gc protein) and glycosidases of B and T lymphocytes. Stepwise incubation of Gc protein with immobilized β‐galactosidase and sialidase efficiently generated the most potent macrophage activating factor (designated GcMAF) we have ever encountered. Administration of GcMAF (20 or 100 pg/mouse) resulted in stimulation of the progenitor cells for extensive mitogenesis and activation of macrophages. Administration of GcMAF (100 pg/mouse) along with immunization of mice with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) produced a large number of anti‐SRBC antibody secreting splenic cells in 2–4 days. Thus, GcMAF has a potent adjuvant activity for immunization. Although malignant tumours are poorly immunogenic, 4 days after GcMAF‐primed immunization of mice with heat‐killed Ehrlich ascites tumour cells, the ascites tumour was no longer transplantable in these mice.
Random length assortment of human and mouse T cell receptor for antigen α and β chain CDR3
Authors: Johnson George , Wu Tai T
Published: March 2003

In view of the recently determined three‐dimensional structures of complexes formed by the T cell receptor for antigen (TCR), the processed peptide and the MHC class I molecule, it is expected that the combined configuration formed by the third complementarity determining regions (CDR3) of TCR α and β chains will be very restricted in size and shape due to the limited length variations of the processed peptides. Thus, the combined TCR α and β chain CDR3 lengths should have a fairly narrow distribution. This feature can be due to the selective association of long α chain CDR3 with short β chain CDR3 and vice versa or due to random assortment of α and β chain CDR3 of even narrower length distribution. Based on existing translated amino acid sequence data, it has been found that the latter mechanism is responsible.
Protective immunity to UV radiation‐induced skin tumours induced by skin grafts and epidermal cells
Authors: Sluyter Ronald , Yuen Kylie S , Halliday Gary M
Published: March 2003

There is little evidence that cutaneous dendritic cells (DC), including epidermal Langerhans cells (LC), can induce immunity to UV radiation (UVR)‐induced skin tumours. Here, it is shown that cells within skin can induce protective antitumour immunity against a UVR‐induced fibrosarcoma. Transplantation of the skin overlying subcutaneous tumours onto naïve recipients could induce protective antitumour immunity, probably because the grafting stimulated the tumour Ag‐loaded DC to migrate to local lymph nodes. This suggests that cutaneous APC can present tumour Ag to induce protective antitumour immunity. Previously, it has been shown that immunization of mice with MHC class II+ epidermal cells (EC) pulsed with tumour extracts could induce delayed‐type hypersensitivity against tumour cells. Here, this same immunization protocol could induce protective immunity against a minimum tumorigenic dose of UVR‐induced fibrosarcoma cells, but not higher doses. Epidermal cells obtained from semiallogeneic donors and pulsed with tumour extract could also induce protective immunity. However, presentation of BSA Ag from the culture medium was found to contribute to this result using semiallogeneic EC. The results suggest that LC overlying skin tumours may be able to induce protective immunity to UVR‐induced tumours if stimulated to migrate from the skin.
Complement and myoblast transfer therapy: Donor myoblast survival is enhanced following depletion of host complement C3 using cobra venom factor, but not in the absence of C5
Authors: Hodgetts Stuart I , Grounds Miranda D
Published: March 2003

Myoblast transfer therapy (MTT) is a potential cell therapy for myopathies such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and involves the injection of cultured muscle precursor cells (‘myoblasts’) isolated from normal donor skeletal muscles into dystrophic host muscle. The failure of donor myoblast survival following MTT is widely accepted as being due to the immune response of the host. The role of complement as one possible mechanism for the initial, very rapid death of myoblasts following MTT was investigated. Donor male myoblasts were injected into the tibialis anterior (TA) muscles of female host mice that were: (i) untreated; (ii) depleted of C3 complement (24 h prior to MTT) using cobra venom factor (CVF); and/or (iii) deficient in C5 complement. Quantification of surviving male donor myoblast DNA was performed using the Y‐chromosome specific (Y1) probe on slot blots for samples taken at 0 h, 1 h, 24 h, 1 week and 3 weeks after MTT. Peripheral depletion of C3 was confirmed using double immunodiffusion, and local depletion of C3 in host TA muscles was confirmed by immunostaining of muscle samples. Cobra venom factor treatment significantly increased the initial survival of donor myoblasts, but there was a marked decline in myoblast numbers after 1 h and little long‐term benefit by 3 weeks. Strain specific variation in the immediate survival of donor male myoblasts following MTT in untreated C57BL/10Sn, DBA‐1 and DBA‐2 (C5‐deficient) female hosts was observed. Cobra venom factor depletion of C3 increased initial donor male myoblast survival (approximately twofold at 0 h) in C57BL/10Sn and DBA‐1 host mice and approximately threefold in DBA‐2 hosts at 0 h and 1 h after MTT. The rapid and extensive number (approximately 90%) of donor male myoblasts in untreated DBA‐2 mice (that lack C5) indicates that activation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) plays no role in this massive initial cell death. The observation that myoblast survival was increased in all mice treated with CVF suggests that CVF may indirectly enhance donor myoblast survival by a mechanism possibly involving activated C3 fragments.
Characterization of a human synovial cell antigen: VCAM‐1 and inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Carter RA , O'Donnell K , Sachthep S , Cicuttini F , Boyd AW , Wicks IP
Published: March 2003

The contribution of synovial cells to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is only partly understood. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) 1D5 is one of very few mAb ever raised against RA synovial cells in order to study the biology of these cells. Studies on the expression pattern and structural features of the 1D5 Ag suggest that 1D5 recognizes human vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1), which is an intercellular adhesion molecule. Vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 may be involved in a number of crucial intercellular interactions in RA.
Expression and localization of IL‐1β mRNA is interrelated with cytoskeletal rearrangement in monocytes stimulated by adherence: A light microscopy in situ hybridization study
Authors: Böcker U , Sirenko OI , Morris JS , Sartor RB , Singer MV , Haskill JS , Watson JM
Published: March 2003

Differences in IL‐1β mRNA expression, stability and translation between non‐adherent monocytes and those stimulated by adherence suggest that cytokine regulation is coupled to the function and assembly of cytoskeletal structures. In situ hybridization studies were performed to visualize expression and positioning of IL‐1β mRNA in adherently cultivated monocytes. IL‐1β mRNA expression was heterogeneous with high transcript levels found in spread or polarized cells. Transcripts were compartmentalized to the perinuclear region in spread cells, and partially redistributed with polarization. In contrast to mRNA distribution in other motile cell populations, IL‐1β mRNA did not localize to the distal or proximal actin cytoskeleton. Perinuclear confinement of transcripts required intact actin microfilaments. Treatment with cytoskeleton disruption and detergent extraction suggested that most non‐translated IL‐1β mRNA was associated with intermediate filaments. In monocytes stimulated by LPS, IL‐1β, but not IL‐1Ra transcripts were redistributed and partially associated, yet not bound to actin microfilaments. The present study demonstrates that IL‐1β mRNA expression and localization in adherent monocytes is interrelated with the cytoskeletal rearrangement upon adherence, spreading and polarization.
Tracking membrane and secretory immunoglobulin α heavy chain mRNA variation during B‐cell differentiation by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Xiang Sue D , Benson Elizabeth M , Dunn Ian S
Published: March 2003

Primary transcripts for all Ig heavy chain isotypes are alternatively processed to encode either secreted or membrane forms of the same antibody and, in plasma cells, a shift towards the secreted form occurs. In principle, measuring the relative quantities of secreted and membrane forms for a particular isotype could monitor B‐cell plasmacytoid differentiation. Ratios of α heavy chain mRNA secreted (αs) to membrane (αm) form were assessed by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR; TaqMan) using an IgA plasma cell line (NCI‐H929), a surface IgA+ line (Dakiki) and human tonsillar B cells. While NCI‐H929 cells showed the highest αs : αm ratio as expected, αs mRNA predominated for all unstimulated B cells and Dakiki cells. Treatment of B cells and Dakiki cells with IL‐2 and IL‐10 resulted in a further progression towards the αs form, correlating with increased human plasma cell antigen‐1 (HPC1) mRNA levels. However, α mRNA processing and HPC1 expression were independently regulated, as IFN‐γ treatment suppressed HPC1 levels while increasing αs : αm ratios. Cytokine‐mediated increases in the αs : αm ratio resulted from strongly enhanced levels of αs with relatively constant αm values. Differentiation‐related changes in mRNA processing can thus be tracked by automated quantitative PCR.
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and zymosan‐resistant mutant isolated from a macrophage‐like cell line, WEHI‐3, with a defective response to LPS under serum‐free conditions
Authors: Ohki Kazunori , Amano Fumio , Kohashi Osamu
Published: March 2003

A LPS‐resistant mutant, W3SF‐1, was isolated from a murine macrophage‐like cell line, WEHI‐3. The W3SF‐1 mutant did not produce a significant amount of nitric oxide (NO) or TNF‐α even with high concentrations of LPS in the presence or absence of FCS, whereas the parental WEHI‐3 cells produced them in response to LPS. The parental cells expressed a significant level of TNF‐α mRNA after LPS stimulation, whereas the mutant cells did not. This defective response of the mutant cells to LPS was neither dependent on the concentration or chemical structure of LPS, nor on the time of LPS treatment. The mutant cells also showed a defective response to zymosan, suggesting that the defect in the mutant cells is common to LPS and zymosan in the signal transduction pathways. The parental and mutant cells showed similar levels of Mac1, F4/80 and CD14, suggesting that these surface markers of macrophages are not linked directly to the defective responses of the mutant to LPS. The treatment of mutant cells with IFN‐γ did not restore the defect of NO or TNF‐α production on LPS treatment. Binding experiments with 125I‐labelled LPS showed a similar binding affinity for LPS in the parental and the mutant cells. These results suggest that the defect in the W3SF‐1 mutant cells may not reside in the LPS binding but rather in the early step of signal transduction pathways in the cells after LPS binding.
Trypanosoma cruzi heat‐shock protein‐70 kDa, alone or fused to the parasite KMP11 antigen, induces functional maturation of murine dendritic cells
Authors: Planelles L , Thomas MC , Pulgar M , Marañón C , Grabbe S , López MC
Published: March 2003

We analyse the effect of Trypanosoma cruzi heat‐shock protein‐70 (HSP70) on the maturation of murine dendritic cells (DC) generated from bone marrow precursor cells. The results obtained show that HSP70, both alone and fused to the KMP11 antigen, as well as a HSP70 fragment, is capable of maturing murine DC. Mature DC have enhanced expression of IL12, TNF‐α cytokines, costimulation molecules and activation markers, showing a clear increase in the allostimulatory capacity. These findings suggest that T. cruzi HSP70 may be a very useful vehicle for developing DC‐based immunoprophylaxis and therapy against infections.
Unlicensed assistive personnel in the critical care unit: What is their role?
Authors: Chaboyer Wendy , McMurray Anne , Patterson Elizabeth
Published: March 2003

Unlicensed assistive personnel in the critical care unit: What is their role?

Driven by an economic imperative, the use of unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) has proliferated in the health care system, however, their use in the critical care (CC) environment remains relatively new. An analysis of the first phase of a mixed method study, in which interviews with 17 CC nurses were conducted in order to provide data upon which to devise a larger survey, provides insight into the potential uses and misuses of these UAP. An examination of the transcripts, field notes, and diagrams and a comparison of the emerging categories to the literature assisted in identifying several themes important to CC nursing practice. Three themes identified in the analysis—ongoing vigilant assessment, quick response and seeing the whole picture—provide evidence that if UAP are asked to complete tasks allocated to them in other areas, CC nurses will be robbed of vital, albeit subtle, aspects of their nursing practice. As reflective practitioners, CC nurses must be wary of giving away tacit features of their role which enable them to synthesise contextual variables with espoused theory and experience, in order to ensure optimal patient care and outcomes.
Ovarian cancer: An update for nursing practice
Authors: Mannix Judy , Jackson Debra , Raftos Maree
Published: March 2003

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer is a crisis for any woman. Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality of all the gynaecological cancers. In addition to the very real threat of death, such a diagnosis raises critical issues concerning femininity, motherhood and sexuality. The high mortality associated with this disease is due (in part) to problems associated with early diagnosis. Women frequently experience non‐specific symptoms, which may be attributed to other, less alarming causes. The lack of specific symptoms experienced by women, as well as the lack of effective mass screening strategies, make early detection difficult. This makes it crucial that nurses involved in the care of women be alert to the insidious and non‐specific onset of this serious condition.
Life control of members of the Kainuu Martha Organization in Finland
Authors: Eirola Raija , Nikkonen Merja , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to describe the life control of members of the Kainuu Martha Organization (the Marthas), based on their written autobiographic material. The study material consisted of written thematized autobiographies of members of the organization (n = 41). The material was analysed using qualitative content analysis with concepts of the health portrait. The Marthas were classified into three groups (member, participating and leading) on the basis of their participation in Martha activities. According to the generational categorization of Roos, the member Marthas represented the Finnish generations of well‐being, structural change and shortage. They did not participate actively in the Martha activities. Their feeling of life control was based on the sense life made to them. The member Marthas emphasized the meaning of family in their lives. The participating Marthas represented the generations of structural change and shortage. They participated in the Martha activities as observers or by attending the functions of their local organizations. Their feeling of life control was related to a favourable attitude towards life and concern for their human relations. The leading Marthas represented the generation of shortage and participated actively in the Martha activities. They believed in the continuity of the Martha Organization in Kainuu. They had a strong feeling of life control. This manifested as an enterprising spirit in everyday life, which included a skill to live life as it occurred. The lives of the leading Marthas were characterized by a favourable attitude, a feeling of responsibility and initiative.
Migrant farm workers and their families: Cultural patterns and delivery of care in the United States
Authors: A Bechtel Gregory , Davidhizar Ruth , Spurlock Wanda R
Published: March 2003

Migrant farm workers and their families represented a critical labour pool in the planting and harvesting of agricultural products in the United States, yet their diminished health status parallel many non‐industrialized communities. The interaction of social, political, environmental and financial obstacles severely restrict access to health care among this community who often perceive insurmountable barriers to navigating the health‐care system. Through the provision of a culturally competent and sensitive assessment, community health nurses and other health providers can positively impact on health outcomes by incorporating the unique health beliefs and practices of this vulnerable population into a mutually defined plan of care.
Registered nurses’ experiences of caring for the elderly in different health‐care areas
Authors: Fagerberg Ingegerd , Kihlgren Mona
Published: March 2003

Caring for elderly patients is an undertaking for a majority of Swedish nurses in different health‐care sectors. The purpose of the study was to understand how nurses experienced the meaning of caring for elderly patients after 2 years as Registered Nurses. Interviews were conducted with 20 nurses 2 years after graduation. Data were analysed with a phenomenological–hermeneutic method and resulted in two themes: (i) providing the elderly with a sense of trust; and (ii) commitment to elderly patients. Each theme was made up of four subthemes, expressing both positive and negative aspects. Caring for the elderly means that the core of caring is in focus. Nurses need a supportive context for their care of the elderly, especially when they experience that they or their staff cannot provide the optimal quality of care for the patients.
Are nasal spectacles adequate for supplementary oxygen in patients after anaesthesia?
Authors: Bolton Jane , Russell Walter John
Published: March 2003

Two methods of oxygen delivery were compared when used postoperatively after a general anaesthetic had been administered. There were 255 patients randomly allocated to receive oxygen via nasal spectacles or a Hudson face mask in the initial postoperative period. Oxygen saturation was monitored using pulse oximetry. Seven percent of patients who received the Hudson mask and 14% of patients who received nasal spectacles desaturated below 94% (P = 0.10). Age, weight or American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) status did not predict oxygen desaturation; however, desaturation occurred more frequently in male patients with nasal spectacles undergoing abdominal surgery. If male patients who had abdominal surgery with muscle relaxants are excluded from the nasal spectacle group, the desaturation incidences for spectacles and masks are similar (10% versus 7%, P = 0.38). Using nasal spectacles for all postoperative oxygen therapy in selected patients is therefore feasible and could provide substantial cost‐saving.
Allowing the patients to sleep: Flexible medication times in an acute hospital
Authors: RN Heather Jarman , RN Elly Jacobs , RN Ruth Walter , RN Cynthia Witney , RN Valerie Zielinski
Published: March 2003

In 1999, under the leadership and direction of the Director of Clinical Services (Nursing), Roger Napthine, Project Consultant, was commissioned to undertake a review of medication policies and practices for a regional acute‐care hospital. This initiative was taken with the view of improving nursing practice and patient care. Recommendations from Napthine’s review included the trial in a medical and a surgical unit of a change in the administration of routine morning and evening medication times. A descriptive study that included a convenience sample of 52 patients and 25 registered nurses was conducted in the two units. The findings demonstrated that patients were able to sleep longer. Further, although they tended to wake earlier, their ‘in hospital’ and ‘at home’ sleeping patterns were more closely aligned. There was agreement among the nurse participants that the change to flexible medication times allowed patients to sleep longer. However, concerns were raised about the impact of the change on other nursing duties, particularly those performed in the mornings.
K–Ar age–chemistry–fabric relations of phengite from the Sanbagawa high‐pressure schists, Japan
Authors: Itaya Tetsumaru , Fujino Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2003

The Sanbagawa high‐pressure schists from central Shikoku in Southwest Japan have experienced high‐strain ductile deformation during exhumation and cooling. This study examines the effects of high‐strain ductile deformation on K–Ar ages of phengites on the basis of fabric, chemistry and K–Ar ages of phengites from the pelitic, psammitic and quartzose (or albitic) schists collected from the same outcrop in the albite–biotite zone. Phengites in the pelitic and psammitic schists generally occur forming aggregates consisting of fine‐grained phengite crystals and are extremely fine‐grained in domains close to relatively rigid garnet and albite porphyroblasts, indicating that deformation‐induced grain‐size reduction had taken place in phengite during the ductile deformation accompanying the exhumation of host schists. We suggest that the grain‐size reduction of phengite is due to strain‐induced recrystallization or dynamic recrystallization. The matrix phengites in schists are chemically heterogeneous on the thin‐section scale but the phengites from pelitic and psammitic schists from the same outcrop have similar chemical range. Phengite included in garnet has a high Si value and its Na/(Na + K) and Mg/(Mg + Fe) ratios are significantly low in comparison with those in matrix. The phengite included in garnet records the chemistry in equilibrium with other major silicate phases during the higher pressure stage of the P–T–t history of the schists. In contrast, the matrix phengites having low Si values are likely to have been formed during retrograde metamorphism in extremely restricted equilibrium domains. The two or three different types of schists from the same outcrop, which have a similar grain size of phengite, have similar K–Ar ages, suggesting that the closure temperature does not depend on chemistry. However, the hematite‐rich quartzose schist with strong grain‐size reduction of both phengite and quartz has a significantly younger K–Ar phengite age than the pelitic and quartzose schists in the same outcrop that do not show grain‐size reduction. We suggest that the exhumation tectonics of the schists, which have experienced strong ductile deformation at temperatures less than ~350°C, played an important role resulting in the observed variation in age.
Subhorizontal boundary between ultrahigh‐pressure and low‐pressure metamorphic units in the Sulu–Tjube area of the Kokchetav Massif, Kazakhstan
Authors: Ishikawa Masahiro , Kaneko Yoshiyuki , Anma Ryo , Yamamoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2003

Abstract The Kokchetav Massif of Kazakhstan includes high to ultrahigh‐pressure (HP–UHP) metamorphic rocks (some of which were recrystallized at depths in excess of 150 km), juxtaposed against much lower pressure metamorphic components. We investigated the relationship between the HP–UHP metamorphic unit and the low pressure (LP) unit (Daulet Suite) in the Sulu–Tjube area, where the metamorphic rocks have previously been interpreted as constituting a megamelange with subvertical structural attitudes. Analyses of fold structures suggest that the HP–UHP metamorphic unit overlies the LP unit across a west‐dipping subhorizontal boundary. In addition, kinematic indicators display top‐to‐the‐north senses of shear along the tectonic contact between the two units, indicating that the HP–UHP unit has been extruded northward onto the LP unit. Following the juxtaposition of the two units, upright folds developed in both units, and these are associated with the previously reported steeply dipping metamorphic foliations. These data have important implications for the mode of exhumation of the UHP rocks from upper mantle to shallow crustal depths.
Omeprazole attenuates neutrophil–endothelial cell adhesive interaction induced by extracts of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Suzuki Masayuki , Mori Mikiji , Fukumura Dai , Suzuki Hidekazu , Miura Soichiro , Ishii Hiromasa
Published: March 2003

In this study, the influence of omeprazole on the adhesive activity of neutrophils, provided by an extract of Helicobacter pylori, was determined. Human neutrophils were collected from peripheral blood and labelled with a fluorochrome. Helicobacter pylori (NCTC11637) was cultured and its water extract was obtained by centrifugation of the bacterial suspension. Neutrophils were incubated with the extract in a plastic plate. Percentage adherence was calculated by measuring the fluorescence of floating and adherent cells. Rat mesenteric venule was prepared on an intravital microscope and the number of neutrophils which adhered to venular endothelium was counted. Neutrophil adherence to the plastic plate was increased by the presence of H. pylori extract. Pretreatment with omeprazole significantly decreased this adherence in a dose‐dependent manner (10–6–10–4 mol/L). Neutrophil adherence to the mesenteric venule was also increased by H. pylori extract and significantly inhibited by omeprazole. These results indicate that the neutrophil–endothelial adhesive interaction is inhibited by omeprazole, suggesting that omeprazole prevents neutrophil recruitment to the gastric mucosa associated with H. pylori infection.
Endoscopic variceal ligation is a sufficient procedure for the treatment of oesophageal varices in patients with hepatitis C liver cirrhosis: Comparison with injection sclerotherapy
Authors: Hata Yasuo , Hamada Eiji , Takahashi Morio , Ota Shinichi , Ogura Keiji , Shiina Shuichiro , Okamoto Makoto , Okudaira Tsuyoshi , Teratani Takuma , Maeda Shin , Koike Yukihiro , Sato Shinpei , Obi Shuntaro , Tanaka Torao , Kawabe Takao , Shiratori Yasushi , Kawase Tateo , Nomura Masuyo , Omata Masao
Published: March 2003

Aims: Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) is a recently developed alternative to endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) for the treatment of oesophageal varices. Endoscopic variceal ligation and EIS were compared in an attempt to clarify the efficacy and safety of EVL for patients with cirrhosis due to hepatitis C.

Methods: Endoscopic variceal ligation was performed in 60 patients and EIS in 30. Varices were eradicated in all patients by EVL and 87% (26 out of 30) by EIS.

Results: There was no significant difference between EVL and EIS in relation to the incidence of bleeding and the 5 year survival rate after treatment. There were no severe complications except mild substernal pain after EVL, while pulmonary embolism occurred in one patient receiving EIS.

Conclusions: Endoscopic variceal ligation is a safe and effective technique for eradicating oesophageal varices in patients with hepatitis C cirrhosis.
Evaluation of endoscopic variceal ligation in prophylactic therapy for bleeding of oesophageal varices: A prospective, controlled trial compared with endoscopic injection sclerotherapy
Authors: Gotoh Yudai , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Sakata Yasushi , Koyama Takanori , Noda Takahiro , Matsunaga Chika , Ogata Shin‐Ichi , Ishibashi Sadatoshi , Sakata Hiroyuki , Tsunada Seiji , Fujimoto Kazuma
Published: March 2003

Background: To evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) in prophylactic therapy for oesophageal varices, we performed a randomized prospective trial to compare the recurrence of oesophageal varices treated by EVL with those treated by endoscopic injection sclerotherapy.

Methods: Fifty patients with liver cirrhosis were divided into two groups at random, after informed consents were obtained, to receive prophylactic therapy for bleeding of oesophageal varices. Group 1 patients underwent sessions of sclerotherapy with 5% ethanolamine oleate used as the sclerosant. Group 2 patients underwent EVL followed by one or two sessions of sclerotherapy.

Results: During the 18 month follow‐up period, both the recurrence rate in group 2 (56%) and the incidence of bleeding (20%) were significantly higher compared with group 1 (recurrence rate 16%, bleeding 0%).

Conclusions: This result indicates that EVL is not effective for prophylactic therapy for oesophageal varices in liver cirrhosis.
CASE REPORT: Histological changes during clearance of chronic hepatitis B virus infection by adoptive immunity transfer
Authors: Lau George , Yuen Siu , Au Wing , Wu Pui , Liang Raymond
Published: March 2003

Background: Serological clearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) has been described after reception of hepatitis B surface antibody positive marrow, via allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Histological changes during the clearance of HBsAg are unknown.

Methods and Results: We described two chronic hepatitis B carriers (both hepatitis B e antigen negative), who cleared HBsAg after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Both received hepatitis B surface and core antibody positive human leucocyte antigen identical donors’ marrow and had serological clearance of HBsAg 15 and 7 weeks after allogeneic BMT, respectively. Both events were preceded by hepatic flare. Both patients were also treated with famciclovir for the prevention of hepatitis B reactivation after BMT. Histological examination during the flare showed only mild necroinflammatory activity with multiple foci of confluent necrosis, associated with moderate lymphocytic infiltration. The majority of these lymphocytes were cluster of differentiation (CD) 8 positive. Using immunohistochemistry, there was no detectable hepatic expression of hepatitis B core antigen. However, HBsAg was positive, mainly in the area of confluent necrosis. Using in situ hybridization, hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA was detected in the nucleus of 5% of hepatocytes, but not in the cytoplasm.

Conclusions: At their last follow up, 22 and 16 months after BMT, the serum of both patients remained HBsAg negative, hepatitis B surface antibody positive and HBV‐DNA negative by branched DNA assay.
CASE REPORT: An unusual cause of rectal bleeding in a patient with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Treepongkaruna Suporn , Hardikar Winita , Chow Chung , Smith Arnold , Oliver Mark
Published: March 2003

Here we identify a previously unreported cause of rectal bleeding (juvenile polyposis) in a patient with cystic fibrosis (CF). We believe this patient most likely has two coexisting genetic diseases. It also raises many issues about organ transplantation in a patient with medical conditions that individually increase the risk of gastrointestinal malignancy and stresses the diagnostic value of endoscopy in CF patients with rectal bleeding.
Role of bile salt hydrophobicity in distribution of phospholipid species to carriers in supersaturated model bile solutions
Authors: Tsuchimoto Denya , Tazuma Susumu , Yamashita Gunji , Kajiyama Goro
Published: March 2003

Background: Phospholipid species modulate cholesterol‐holding capacity and, therefore, regulate bile metastability.

Methods: In this study, we investigated the effect of bile salt hydrophobicity on the distribution of phospholipids among lipid particles in supersaturated model bile solutions (total lipid concentration, 9 g/dL; taurocholate/phospholipid ratio 3.0, cholesterol saturation index 1.3), by using gel permeation chromatography.

Results: With an increase of bile salt hydrophobicity in the elution buffer, the uptake of cholesterol and phospholipids into bile salt micelles was increased, associated with an increased cholesterol/phospholipid molar ratio of the vesicles. In contrast, there was an inverse correlation between the hydrophobicity of the phospholipid species in the vesicles and that of bile salts in the elution buffer, suggesting that hydrophobic bile salts induced preferential uptake of hydrophobic phospholipids into bile salt micelles, while less hydrophobic phospholipids, with a relatively low cholesterol‐holding capacity, remained in the vesicles.

Conclusions: These data indicate that bile salt hydrophobicity regulates vesicular cholesterol metastability by modulating the hydrophobicity of phospholipids in vesicles, as well as the lipid distribution among various biliary lipid particles.
Rebamipide prevents occurrence of gastric lesions following transcatheter arterial embolization in the hepatic artery
Authors: Nomura Hideyuki , Miyake Katsuhisa , Hirakata Ryosuke , Migita Shinobu , Okamoto Osamu , Shiraishi Genji
Published: March 2003

Background:Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) of the hepatic artery is a common treatment method for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but it often induces gastric mucosal injury. We examined whether or not rebamipide administration, beginning 1 week before and ending 2 weeks after TAE, can prevent worsening of gastric mucosal disorders.

Methods: The subjects were 73 chronic hepatitis C or type C liver cirrhosis patients who concomitantly had HCC and received TAE in our hospital. The patients were randomly allocated to the rebamipide group (oral, 300 mg/day for 3 weeks starting 1 week before TAE) or the non‐rebamipide group. Gastric endoscopy was performed 1 week before and 2 weeks after TAE and the presence of erythema, erosion and/or submucosal haemorrhagic spots was monitored. Based on the findings, gastric mucosal disorder before and after TAE was quantitatively evaluated using the modified Lanza score (MLS).

Results: Overall, MLS after TAE increased significantly (P < 0.05). However, in the rebamipide group, MLS did not change. The MLS after TAE increased significantly in patients who had either liver cirrhosis, oesophageal varices or gastropathy (P < 0.01 or < 0.05). In the non‐rebamipide group, a significant increase in MLS after TAE was observed in patients who had one of the above‐mentioned three diseases (P < 0.01 or < 0.05).

Conclusions: Gastric lesions which were present before TAE were significantly worsened after TAE. Rebamipide administration prevents TAE‐induced aggravation of gastric lesions.
CASE REPORT: A case of lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma of the oesophagus and review of the literature
Authors: Sashiyama Hiroshi , Nozawa Akinori , Kimura Masayuki , Nomura Eiichi , Tamaru Jun‐Ichi , Ninomiya Eiichiro , Koide Yoshio , Iino Masatoshi , Ozawa Kosuke
Published: March 2003

Abstract A 78‐year‐old Japanese female was admitted to our hospital with dysphagia and weight loss. An oesophageal tumour was demonstrated radiologically and endoscopically, and was diagnosed as oesophageal cancer by biopsy. Histologically, the resected tumour showed poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with prominent lymphoid stroma and was diagnosed as the so‐called lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (LELC). Epstein–Barr virus in the tumour was negative by polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization. Oesophageal LELC is extremely rare. The cases in the literature, as well as the one reported here, presented with gross features of a submucosal tumour‐like appearance. Although the differentiation of the tumour cells is often poor, prognosis seems to be better than for other types of oesophageal cancer. Oesophageal LELC has characteristic clinicopathological features and should be classified by criteria independent of other types of tumour.

© 1999 Blackwell Science Asia Pty Ltd
Effects of bilirubin ditaurate on biliary secretion of proteins and lipids: Influence on the hepatic vesicle transport system
Authors: Kajihara Tsuyoshi , Tazuma Susumu , Yamashita Gunji , Kajiyama Goro
Published: March 2003

Background
: Several organic anions cause dissociation of biliary lipid secretion from bile acid secretion (uncoupling). As bile lipids originate from liver microsomes and are transported by carrier proteins and/or transcytotic vesicles, such a reduction of biliary lipid secretion may lead to cytosolic accumulation of vesicles. This study investigated whether bilirubin conjugate, a physiologically important organic anion, caused uncoupling and whether hepatic retention of compounds carried by transcytotic vesicles occurred subsequently, using bilirubin ditaurate, a synthetic commercially available compound.

Methods
: Cannulation of the bile duct and femoral vein was done in male Sprague‐Dawley rats. Sodium taurocholate was infused intravenously at a constant rate of 100 nmol/min per 100 g bodyweight. Bilirubin ditaurate (50 nmol/min per 100 g bodyweight) was infused concomitantly, followed by periodical bile collection for analysis of lipids, total protein and immunoglobulin A.

Results
: Biliary bile acid secretion was not changed significantly by infusion of bilirubin ditaurate. In contrast, the secretion of cholesterol, phospholipids and immunoglobulin A was decreased by 57.3, 48.7 and 44.8%, respectively. The biliary cholesterol:phospholipid ratio was increased by 19%. Uncoupling was caused by bilirubin ditaurate and biliary immunoglobulin A secretion was decreased.

Conclusions
: As immunoglobulin A is a major protein carried by intrahepatic transcytotic vesicles, uncoupling may involve impairment of intrahepatic vesicular transport. Also, a reduction of immunoglobulin A secretion into bile by organic anion‐induced uncoupling may weaken biliary immunity.

© 1999 Blackwell Science Asia Pty Ltd
Butyrate from bacterial fermentation of germinated barley foodstuff preserves intestinal barrier function in experimental colitis in the rat model
Authors: Kanauchi Osamu , Iwanaga Toshihiko , Mitsuyama Keiichi , Saiki Tomohisa , Tsuruta Osamu , Noguchi Kazunori , Toyonaga Atsushi
Published: March 2003

Background and Aims
: The consumption of germinated barley foodstuff (GBF) prevents inflammation and diarrhoea in a colitis model. In this study we investigated the mechanism of the preventative effect of GBF on experimental colitis in rats, in view of production of bacterial butyrate and preservation of intestinal barrier function.

Methods
: Sprague–Dawley rats administered with diets supplemented with 3.5% dextran sodium sulphate were used as an experimental colitis model. Butyrate was given to rats orally or intracaecally. Intestinal barrier function was estimated by light microscopic observation of the mucosa, intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation.

Results
: Mucosal damage was reduced by intracaecal administration of butyrate, but not by oral administration. Bacterial butyrate production and reduction of mucosal damage depended on the dose of GBF in diets. The action of endogenous bacterial butyrate, including the reduction of intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation, was inhibited by administration of an inhibitor of β‐oxidation of short‐chain fatty acids.

Conclusions
: The feeding of GBF promotes bacterial butyrate production and improves intestinal barrier function in rats, resulting in mitigation of experimental colitis.
Budd–Chiari syndrome: A short radiological review
Authors: Al‐Damegh Saleh
Published: March 2003

A short review of Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) is given with detailed radiological findings from ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and angiography and illustrated with two case reports. The cases had different clinical presentations: one antedated by Behçet’s syndrome and complicated with aortic aneurysm, the other with a provisional diagnosis of a tuberculous abdomen. The radiological features of BCS, especially the changing appearance under dual‐phase CT, are discussed. The respective diagnostic sensitivity and efficacy of other imaging modalities are mentioned.

© 1999 Blackwell Science Asia Pty Ltd
EFFICACY OF SERUM PEPSINOGENS IN THE PREDICTION OF ENDOSCOPIC FEATURES OF GASTRITIS
Authors: Urita Yoshihisa , Torii Naotaka , Hike Kazuo , Sasajima Masahiko , Kanda Eiko , Matsuzaki Hiroshi , Miki Kazumasa
Published: March 2003

Objective

The efficacy of serum pepsinogen (PG) test is widely accepted as a screening test to select persons for endoscopy in the diagnosis of gastric cancer. In this study, we would like to examine whether serum PG levels give us information on endoscopic findings of gastric mucosa.

Materials and methods

The serum level of PG++ and PG+− and the PG+/PG− ratio were compared with endoscopic 13C‐urea breath. H.pylori status was defined as an increase in the intragastric 13CO2/12CO2 ratio of 10% over baseline. Intestinal metaplasia was made visible as the purple‐stained area using a 0.05% crystal violet spraying method. PG level of less than 70μg/L and I PG+/PG− ratio of less than 3 was adopted for a (+) result, and PG level of less than 30μg/L and a PG+/PG− ratio of less than 2 for a (++) result.

Results

Prevalence of endoscopic features and H. pylori infection in different groups classified by serum PG tests.

Conclusions

Lintestinal metaplasia was identified in more than 80% of PG positive patients. The prevalence of linear reddness and raised erosion in the antrum were higher in PG (‐) group than in PG(+) and (++) groups. H. pylori‐positive rate was the highest in PG (+) group.