bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation between AT1R Gene Polymorphism and Long-Term Outcome in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Amir Offer , Amir Ruthie E. , Paz Hagar , Attias Eric , Sagiv Michael , Lewis Basil S.
Published: July 2008

Objectives: Angiotensin II plays a key role in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). This study examined the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) polymorphism in patients with systolic HF and its relation to clinical manifestations and patient outcome. Methods: We genotyped 134 patients with HF and reduced systolic function for the AT1R A1166C genotype using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. We analyzed the relationship between the AT1R A1166C polymorphism and clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and laboratory parameters in patients with ischemic and non-ischemic etiology and examined the relation between the AT1R genotype and long-term (30 months) patient survival. Results: In HF patients, frequency of the AT1R 1166C allele and specifically the CC genotype was similar to the general population, but associated with an ischemic and not a non-ischemic etiology (p = 0.02). The CC genotype was associated with more advanced disease and more severe abnormalities of renal function (p = 0.008). Survival analysis showed that AT1R CC homozygous patients had significantly higher mortality (p = 0.008; adjusted odds ratio for mortality 6.35, 95% confidence interval 1.49–11.21, p = 0.01). Conclusion: The CC AT1R genotype was associated with poor prognostic markers and increased mortality. The findings support the principle of genome-based therapies in the future treatment of HF patients.
Refining the Method of Therapeutic Lung Lavage in Meconium Aspiration Syndrome
Authors: Dargaville Peter A. , Copnell Beverley , Tingay David G. , Gordon Michael J. , Mills John F. , Morley Colin J.
Published: July 2008

Background: Therapeutic lung lavage is an emerging treatment for meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), but the ideal fluid volume and lavage technique remain unclear. Objective: To evaluate the impact of suction technique, chest squeeze and aliquot volume on the efficacy of lung lavage in MAS. Methods: MAS was induced in ventilated 2-week-old piglets using 4 ml/kg of 20% human meconium. Lung lavage with either two 8 ml/kg saline aliquots (n = 5) or a single 15 ml/kg aliquot (n = 6) was performed soon after meconium instillation. Lavage fluid was recovered by three methods performed in sequence: closed suction via a suction adaptor; open suction with the ventilator disconnected, and open suction with manual vibratory chest squeezing. Return fluid was collected separately with each method. Recovery of meconium and lavage fluid was determined and expressed as a proportion of the amount instilled. Results: Closed suction resulted in poor meconium and fluid returns, with recovery of meconium being only 5.2 ± (SD) 2.5% with 2 × 8 ml/kg lavage and 19 ± 11% with a single 15 ml/kg aliquot. Chest squeeze during suction increased recovery of both meconium and lavage fluid. Overall recovery of instilled meconium was greater with 15 ml/kg lavage (45 ± 17%) than with two 8 ml/kg aliquots (24 ± 4.5%, p = 0.028, repeated-measures ANOVA); the corresponding values for return of lavage fluid were 73 ± 10 and 49 ± 13%, respectively (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Open suction, vibratory chest squeezing and an aliquot volume of 15 ml/kg each improve the efficacy of lung lavage in MAS, and merit inclusion in the lavage technique in clinical trials of this therapy.
Postnatal Administration of Dexamethasone for Weaning off the Ventilator Affects Thyroid Function
Authors: Buimer Maarten , van Wassenaer Aleid G. , Kok Joke H.
Published: July 2008

Background: Very preterm neonates are at risk of hypothyroxinemia because of prematurity as well as because of neonatal disease. Hypothyroxinemia is associated with impaired developmental outcome. Preterm infants who cannot be weaned from the ventilator can be treated with dexamethasone. Glucocorticoid administration has been found to alter thyroid hormone parameters. Therefore, dexamethasone treatment in these infants might additionally impair their thyroid function, which could have consequences for developmental outcome. Objective: To assess what changes in thyroid function occur in the first hours after initiating dexamethasone treatment in ventilated preterm infants. Methods: Preterm infants, in whom the decision was taken to start dexamethasone treatment, were included. Thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3), reverse T3 (rT3), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and cortisol were determined before and 6–9 h after administration of the first dose of a postnatal dexamethasone course. Details of clinical condition were recorded at both time points. Results: Sixteen very preterm infants were included at a median age of 20 days. While clinical condition was stable between start of dexamethasone and 6–9 h thereafter, TSH and T3 levels decreased significantly. rT3 levels significantly increased, resulting in a decrease in the T3/rT3 ratio. There was no statistically significant effect on the levels of T4. Conclusion: Postnatal dexamethasone administration negatively affects thyroid functionin the preterm infant with severe chronic lung disease.
Suppression and Recovery of the Hypothalamic Function after High-Dose Corticosteroid Treatment in Preterm Infants
Authors: Ng P.C. , Lam C.W.K. , Lee C.H. , Chan I.H.S. , Wong S.P.S. , Fok T.F.
Published: July 2008

Background: High-dose systemic dexamethasone is effective in facilitating extubation of ventilated infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Although the suppression and recovery of pituitary-adrenal response had been assessed after corticosteroid treatment in very low birth weight infants, its effect on hypothalamic function has not been longitudinally monitored. Aims: This study was designed to assess the longitudinal hypothalamic response before, during and 4 weeks after a 3-week dose-tapering course of systemic dexamethasone treatment. Patients and Methods: Twenty very low birth weight infants had blood collected for corticotropin-releasing hormone, ACTH and cortisol measurements immediately before starting dexamethasone (week 0), after receiving the maximum dose of treatment (week 1), at the end of the 3-week course (week 3) and 4 weeks after stopping corticosteroids (week 7). Results: All circulating hormone concentrations were significantly suppressed during the treatment period at week 1 and week 3 compared with pretreatment concentrations at week 0 (p < 0.001). The recovery of pituitary function started early soon after week 1, whereas that of hypothalamus and adrenal functions started after the end of the dexamethasone course. Plasma ACTH concentration at week 7 had returned to the pretreatment level, but plasma corticotropin-releasing hormone (p < 0.05) and serum cortisol (p < 0.001) concentrations remained significantly suppressed. Partial recovery of hypothalamic and adrenal function was observed at week 7 (62 vs. 36% of their pretreatment levels, respectively). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the hypothalamic function is suppressed during systemic corticosteroid treatment but partial recovery occurs 4 weeks after stopping therapy. Even in preterm infants, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis behaves in a similar manner as in adult subjects and the pituitary function recovers earlier than that of hypothalamus and adrenals.
Resuscitation of Newborn Infants with 21% or 100% Oxygen: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Saugstad Ola Didrik , Ramji Siddarth , Soll Roger F. , Vento Maximo
Published: July 2008

Background: The issue of whether 21% O2 is more effective than 100% O2 for resuscitation of newborn infants remains controversial. Objectives: We have updated the systematic review and meta-analysis including all studies reporting resuscitation of newborn infants with 21 or 100% O2. Methods: Randomized or quasi-randomized studies of depressed newborn infants resuscitated with 21 or 100% O2 with or without masking of treatment were considered for inclusion. The outcomes of interest included neonatal mortality and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Results: Ten studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 6 studies were identified as being strictly randomized. In total, 1,082 infants were allocated to resuscitation with 21% O2 and 1,051 infants with 100% O2. The risk of neonatal mortality was reduced in the 21% O2 group compared to the 100% O2 group both in the analysis of all studies (typical RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.54, 0.88) and in the analysis of strictly randomized studies (typical RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.12, 0.84). A trend toward a decrease in the risk of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy stage 2 and 3 was noted with resuscitation in 21% O2 in the analysis of all studies (typical RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.72, 1.08). Conclusions: There is a significant reduction in the risk of neonatal mortality and a trend towards a reduction in the risk of severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy in newborns resuscitated with 21% O2.
Serum β2-Microglobulin as a Marker of Congenital Toxoplasmosis and Cytomegalovirus Infection in Preterm Neonates
Authors: Nešović-Ostojić J. , Klun I. , Vujanić M. , Trbovich A. , Djurković-Djaković O.
Published: July 2008

Background: Fetal serum β2-microglobulin (β2M) has been reported as a reliable indicator of fetal infectious diseases. Objectives: To evaluate serum β2M as a marker of congenital toxoplasmosis or cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in neonates. Methods: β2M was retrospectively measured in 72 neonatal serum samples from preterm neonates. Of these, 32 originated from neonates with serological evidence of congenital toxoplasmosis (n = 12) and CMV infection (n = 20), while 40 samples from neonates in which both infections were serologically excluded served as controls. β2M levels were compared between the infection and control groups. Results: Mean (±SEM) β2M levels were significantly higher in the groups of neonates infected with Toxoplasma (5.64 ± 0.61 mg/l) (p = 0.014) and CMV (6.06 ± 0.66 mg/l) (p < 0.0001) than in the control group (3.80 ± 0.2). Against the cut-off level of 5 mg/l, β2M was normal in 36 of the 40 uninfected neonates examined, indicating a specificity of 90%. In contrast, it was elevated in 66.7% (8/12) and 65% (13/20) of the Toxoplasma and CMV-infected neonates, respectively, indicating an overall sensitivity of 66%. Conclusions: In the absence of urogenital disorders, an increase in β2M in neonates is likely to be infection-induced. We showed that serum β2M is increased in congenital toxoplasmosis and CMV infection in the first weeks of life.
LPA and PLG Sequence Variation and Kringle IV-2 Copy Number in Two Populations
Authors: Crawford Dana C. , Peng Ze , Cheng Jan-Fang , Boffelli Dario , Ahearn Magdalena , Nguyen Dan , Shaffer Tristan , Yi Qian , Livingston Robert J. , Rieder Mark J. , Nickerson Deborah A.
Published: July 2008

Background/Aims: Lp(a) levels have long been recognized as a potential risk factor for coronary heart disease that is almost completely under genetic control. Much of the genetics impacting Lp(a) levels has been attributed to the highly polymorphic LPA kringle IV-2 copy number variant, and most of the variance in Lp(a) levels in populations of European-descent is inversely correlated with kringle IV copy number. However, less of the variance is explained in African-descent populations for the same structural variation. African-descent populations have, on average, higher levels of Lp(a), suggesting other genetic factors contribute to Lp(a) level variability across populations. Methods: To identify potential cis-acting factors, we re-sequenced the gene LPA for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discovery in 23 European-Americans and 24 African-Americans. We also re- sequenced the neighboring gene plasminogen (PLG) and genotyped the kringle IV copy number variant in the same reference samples. Results: These data are the most comprehensive description of sequence variation in LPA and its relationship with the kringle IV copy number variant. With these data, we demonstrate that only a fraction of LPA sequence diversity has been previously documented. Also, we identify several high frequency SNPs present in the African-American sample but absent in the European-American sample. Finally, we show that SNPs within PLG are not in linkage disequilibrium with SNPs in LPA, and we show that kringle IV copy number variation is not in linkage disequilibrium with either LPA or PLG SNPs. Conclusions: Together, these data suggest that LPA SNPs could independently contribute to Lp(a) levels in the general population.
Schnitzler’s Syndrome: Monoclonal Gammopathy Associated with Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Rizzi Rita , Curci Paola , Rinaldi Erminia , Rinaldi Francesco , Cimmino Antonia , Ricco Rosalia , Specchia Giorgina , Liso Vincenzo
Published: July 2008

Schnitzler’s syndrome (SS) is defined by monoclonal gammopathy and chronic urticaria combined with at least two of the following features: fever, arthralgia or arthritis, bone pain, hepato- and/or splenomegaly, palpable lymph nodes, elevated ESR, and leukocytosis. We report a 49-year-old man with monoclonal IgM gammopathy and a 4-year history of recurrent urticarial rash, unexplained fever and arthralgias. The skin biopsy from an acute lesion revealed perivascular lymphocytic infiltrates consisting of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an immunophenotypic characterization of skin infiltrates in SS. A lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio of circulating T lymphocytes was also detected. SS usually has a benign course, but in 15% of patients a lymphoproliferative disorder develops.
Experimental Rhinovirus Infection Increases Human Tissue Kallikrein Activation in Allergic Subjects
Authors: Christiansen Sandra C. , Eddleston Jane , Bengtson Sara H. , Jenkins Gavin R. , Sarnoff Robert B. , Turner Ronald B. , Gwaltney, Jr. Jack M. , Zuraw Bruce L.
Published: July 2008

Background: Rhinovirus infection is a major cause of asthma exacerbations. While rhinovirus infection is known to generate kinins in the upper respiratory track, little is known about the effect of rhinovirus on kinin generation in the lower airway. We previously identified human tissue kallikrein (hTK) as the principal lung kininogenase during allergic airway inflammation. In this report we investigate the effect of experimental rhinovirus infection on hTK activity in the airways of atopic subjects with and without asthma. Methods: Eight atopic subjects, 4 with asthma, underwent bronchoscopy with lavage. At least 1 month later, subjects were inoculated with rhinovirus, then underwent repeat bronchoscopy with lavage 4 and 18 days later. hTK mRNA was measured in nasal scrape samples by quantitative real-time PCR. hTK activity (chromogenic substrate assay) and IL-8 levels (ELISA) were assessed in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Results: At day 4 after rhinovirus inoculation, nasal hTK mRNA was modestly increased in both the rhinitis (1.7-fold) and asthmatic (2.1-fold) groups. A doubling or greater increase in hTK activity after rhinovirus infection was observed in all 4 asthmatic subjects (mean 19-fold increase) but only in 1 of 4 atopic subjects without asthma (mean 2-fold increase). Rhinovirus infection also increased the IL-8 protein level in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, which correlated with hTK activity (R = 0.82). Conclusion: Experimental rhinovirus infection in allergic asthmatic subjects is accompanied by increased lower airway hTK activation, which parallels the appearance of IL-8. Rhinovirus-induced hTK activation may contribute to airway inflammation and asthmatic exacerbations.
Assessment of an Effective Visual Field Testing Strategy for a Normal Pediatric Population
Authors: Akar Yusuf , Yilmaz Aygen , Yucel Iclal
Published: July 2008

Aim: To investigate which visual field testing strategy yields more reliable and tolerable field analysis in a normal pediatric population. Material and Methods: 68 healthy children aged 6–13 years with no ocular or systemic diseases were included in the study. One randomly selected eye of each child underwent standard achromatic visual field analysis using a Model 750 Humphrey Field Analyzer II (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, Calif., USA). We evaluated the reliability criteria (false negative, false positive and fixation loss scores) and the duration of the visual field tests performed by Fastpac (with stimulus sizes III and V, respectively) and SITA Fast with stimulus size III. Moreover, subjects underwent Goldmann perimetry testing with stimulus V. Ability to complete the perimetry tests was also scored. Perimetric analysis was stopped before the end if signs of fatigue appeared. Mean sensitivity, mean defect and pattern standard deviation were recorded for automated tests. Results: All subjects but 8 successfully completed each of four tests. The mean duration of the tests was 4.23, 5.46, 6.35 and 11.06 min for SITA Fast with stimulus size III, Fastpac with stimulus size V, Size III and Goldmann perimetry, respectively (p < 0.001). Both false-negative and false-positive test scores were found to be significantly lower for SITA Fast with stimulus size III compared to the other automated tests (p < 0.01). Children older than 8 years (n = 35) achieved significantly higher test reliability scores (p < 0.01). Conclusion: As early detection of structural and functional visual abnormalities may be of utmost importance in the pediatric population considering many potentially serious neurological and ocular problems met with, accurate and reproducible visual field testing is vital. To achieve this goal, visual field testing with SITA Fast algorithm seemed to be a promising strategy for a pediatric population in a typical clinical setting.
The superficial cells of the transitional epithelium in the expanded and unexpanded rat urinary bladder
Authors: Noack W. , Jacobson M. , Schweichel J.U. , Jayyousi A.
Published: July 2008

The superficial epithelial layer in the urinary bladder of adult rats was examined, in various states, using the transmission and scanning electron microscopes. A good agreement was obtained between the results of the two methods. When the urinary bladder is unexpanded, the superficial cells show marked bulges into the bladder lumen and the contacts between cells (mainly desmosomes) are displaced deep into the epithellium. The luminal surface is bizarrely bent and large parts of the membrane intrude into the cytoplasm, where they give the appearance of discoid and fusiform vesicles. Between neighboring cells, deep interdigitations are observed. In the scanning electron microscope, the surface of the epithelium appears cauliflower-like and has deep grooves, gullys and folds. When the bladder is expanded, the surface becomes smoother and the contacts between cells move to the surface. The stretched cells are angular in form (5-, 6- or 7-sided) and show great variations in surface area (150–500 μm2). The luminal cell membrane consists of an alternation of asymmetrical areas (120 Å thick and 0.2–0.4 μm in length) with normal sections which are 80 Å thick. In the scanning electron microscope, these thick areas appear as 4-, 5- or 6-sided plaques with a maximal diameter of 0.4 μm. The borders of the plaques are formed of portions of cell membrane which have a normal thickness and extrude as microcristae into the lumen. This produces a honeycomb appearance on the cell surface.
The connective tissue skeleton in the mammalian kidney and its innervation
Authors: Doležel S.
Published: July 2008

A special reticular basket-like system of connective tissue strips (called connective tissue skeleton – CTS) was found between the cortex and medulla in the kidney of various mammals. It enlarges the wall of the renal calyx (or pelvis) into the parenchyma. The main component of this system is collagen. A small amount of smooth muscle cells was found in one part of CTS strips situated around the papilla (the levator fornicis muscle). A dense monoaminergic and scanty cholinergic innervation was found in the whole system of the CTS. The functional importance of this system is discussed: (i) a tightly linked connection between the urine-discharging system and the kidney, (ii) ‘milking’ and similar effects in the papilla as well as perception of intrapelvic and intrarenal pressure, (iii) penetration of infection into the kidney and (iv) liberation of the monoaminergic transmitter.
A study on the different types of spermatogonia in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Dhingra L.D. , Goyal H.O.
Published: July 2008

As a first step to understanding spermatogenesis in the buffalo bull the cytological details of different types of spermatogonia were determined in adult buffalo bulls. Morphological changes in the nuclear details were used as a basis for classifying the different types of spermatogonia. The type A spermatogonia had a spherical to ovoid nucleus with finely granulated chromatin, homogeneously dispersed in the nucleoplasm and having one to two nucleoli adhering to the nuclear membrane. The type A₀ spermatogonia were characterized by nuclei containing moderately stained, finely granulated chromatin and a nucleolus attached to the nuclear envelope. The Aj type spermatogonia, on the other hand, have pale stained, finely granulated chromatin with the nucleolus adhering to the nuclear membrane. The nuclei of A2 type spermatogonia resembled those of type Ax, but contained coarse granular chromatin dispersed in the pale nucleoplasm. The intermediate type of spermatogonia acquired a central position of the nucleolus, but the chromatin remained coarsely granulated and non-clumped. Three classes of type B (B1–B3) spermatogonia were determined on the degree of clumping of the chromatin and the central position of the nucleolus. The type B1cells were characterized by nuclei containing a few flakes of lightly stained chromatin and a centrally located nucleolus. The type B2 cells showed comparatively more clumping of chromatin than typeB1 spermatogonia, which was dispersed at random in the pale nucleoplasm and along the nuclear envelope. The type B3 spermatogonia demonstrated chromo-philic chromatin dispersed in the slightly grey nucleoplasm and adhering along the nuclear membrane. Since there seems to be a succession of events following differentiation of type Aτ spermatogonia till the last type B cell differentiates into resting primary spermatocytes, many intermediate stages between the presently described classes of type A (A₀–A2) and type B (B1–B3) could also be located in sections of the seminiferous tubules.
Annulate lamellae in adenomas of human pituitary glands
Authors: Kovacs K. , Horvath E. , Bilbao J.M.
Published: July 2008

Twelve nontumorous adenohypophyses and 36 various pituitary adenomas, removed by surgery, have been investigated by electron microscopy in order to shed some light on annulate lamellae, primarily on their ultrastructural features, incidence, origin, fate and functional significance. No annulate lamellae were found in the nontumorous adenohypophyses and in 33 pituitary adenomas. They were, however, detected in two adenomas consisting of undifl rentiated cells and one adenoma composed of sparsely granulated prolactin cells indicating that these unique membrane configurations cannot be regarded as an exceedingly rare finding and, furthermore, that they may be disclosed not only in undifferentiated but occasionally in highly differentiated cells. Annulate lamellae may arise from endoplasmic reticulum and/or nuclear envelope and consist of arrays of smooth walled double membrane sheets exhibiting regularly spaced interruptions as well as continuities with the endoplasmic reticulum. No relationship was established between annulate lamellae and adenohypophysial secretory activity. Our findings seem to be consistent with the view that annulate lamellae are present in those cells which have the tendency to proliferate.
Entstehung einer besonderen Form der »polypoiden Polster» und klappenähnlicher Bildungen in Arterien
Authors: Plenk, jr. Hanns , Lorenz Markus
Published: July 2008

Intraarterial structures, known as ‘polypoid cushions’ and ‘valve-like’ projections at arterial branching sites, were observed in serial sections of human cleft lip and nasal mucous membrane biopsies. A particular type of ‘polypoid cushions’, which additionally contains a small artery in its center, is distinguished. It is suggested that both the particular type of ‘polypoid cushions’ and these ‘valve-like’ projections originate from the invagination of the entire vessel wall at arterial branching sites according to the location of the dissection or damage. The differences between these ‘valve-like’ formations and genuine arterial valves are mentioned.
Stereometric observations of the hypothalamic neurosecretory system of the spotted owlet, Athene brama Temminck, in total preparations
Authors: Singh Kunwar Bahadur , Dominic C.J.
Published: July 2008

The configuration of the HNS of the spotted owlet, Athene brama Temminck, was studied by employing the bulk-staining technique. This enabled a three-dimensional view of the HNS. The neurons of the SON are distributed into three divisions, namely, the preoptic, median and lateral. The PVN is U-shaped; the distal portion of the arms of the U extends laterally to form the lateral division of the PVN, which remains in continuity with the lateral division of the SON. The periventricular division of the PVN joins ventrally the median division of the SON. Unlike in the passerine birds, in the spotted owlet the PVN is more prominently developed than the SON. Since the axonal pathways are not stained, the proximal portion of the hypothalamo-hypophysial tract could not be demonstrated in bulk-stained preparations. Hence it was not possible to trace with certainty the origin of the axonal terminations in the ME and in the NL. Anterior of the ME, the tract branches into two; one branch enters the zona externa to the ME and the other is continued into the NL. The ME is divisible into an AF-positive anterior region and an AF-negative posterior region. The NL is saccular and heavily loaded with the NSM. Studies on the HNS of the spotted owlet by the bulk-staining technique reveal that the general configuration of the system is comparable to that of the HNS of birds studied previously.
Abdominal vagal paraganglia: distribution and comparison with carotid body, in the rat
Authors: Deane Barbara M. , Howe A. , Morgan Miriam
Published: July 2008

A study was made of the distribution of abdominal vagal paraganglia in the gastro-oesophageal region of 12 rats. In all rats 4–40 paraganglia were found embedded in, or closely associated with, the vagus nerves and their branches. The paraganglia consisted of groups of rounded, weakly chromaffin-positive cells surrounded by flattened cells and supplied by small nerves and blood vessels. The paraganglia were morphologically identical to simultaneously fixed carotid body tissue and showed similar fluorescence characteristics.
Transplantation of the future coronal suture on the dura mater of 3- to 4-month-old rats
Authors: Markens I.S.
Published: July 2008

From fetal rat skulls, tissue containing the presumptive coronal suture was excised and transplanted onto the exposed dura mater of adult rats. Donor animals were sacrificed at specific ages determined by developmental stages of the suture as occurs in the rat. Thus, sacrifices were made at (a) the 19th day of fetal life when a blastema formation in the suture is not yet observable; (b) the 20th day when blastema formation becomes apparent, and (c) the 21st day when the blastema is clearly visible. From the results of these experiments, the following conclusions could be drawn: (1) transplants from 19- and 20-day-old fetuses are not capable of autonomous development in host tissue; continuation and regulation of this process occur in situ only; (2) within the connective tissue of the 19- and 20-day transplants the process of suture formation is arrested; instead chondrogenetic activity occurs, resulting in the production of ectopic cartilage, and (3) when formation of the blastema has been completed prior to transplantation, i.e. at the 21st day, its capability of producing a suture in the host tissue remains unimpaired. Sutures originating from these transplants do not ossify, not even when left in situ for 2 or 3 weeks. These findings suggest the existence of an osteogenesis-inhibiting mechanism located in embryonic sutural tissue, being transmitted to the developing dura.
Quantitative investigation of stem cell candidates in the bone marrow of growing guinea pigs
Authors: Björkholm M. , Ernström U.
Published: July 2008

Possible candidates for hemic stem cells were studied in a quantitative investigation of the bone marrow of growing guinea pigs. The stem cell candidates were classified as lymphoid cells of types I–IV, roughly corresponding to small lymphocytes, large lymphocytes, micromyeloblasts and myeloblasts of other authors. The cellular content of the bone marrow of guinea pigs of three different ages was determined. All types of nucleated cells per femur were found to increase with age. When the cellular content was related to the body weight, a peak number of lymphoid cells was found in the intermediate age group with the exception of the lymphoid cells of type III, which reached its peak in the oldest animals. This cell type has been suggested by Dicke et al. as the probable stem cell responsible r colony formation.
Räumliche Darstellung der funktionellen Lebereinheit (Azinus)
Authors: Sasse D. , Schenk A.
Published: July 2008

The reconstruction of the liver parenchyma of a golden hamster after poisoning with allyl formate is described. Allyl formate primarily destroys the periportal areas and leads, following the microvascularisation of the liver parenchyma, to a necrosis of the hepatocytes progressing towards the terminal hepatic venule. The still intact parenchymal zones can be characterized by the positive PAS reaction. In this study the preterminal and the terminal portal branches as well as zone 3, situated in the vasculatory periphery, were reconstructed. By this method, a three-dimensional presentation of the acinar functional zones was possible for the first time.
Comparaison histochimique et biométrique du muscle peroneus longus et de son innervation chez Gallus gallus et Coturnix c. japonica
Authors: Boesiger B.
Published: July 2008

Following a previous comparison of the peroneus longus muscle of the quail and the starling, the present paper deals with a comparative study of this muscle in two birds of the order Gallinaceae, the quail and the bantam, bearing in mind certain data found in the starling. The study deals with the types of muscle fibres, their frequency in various parts of the muscle, their lipid content and their innervation. In the quail, two types of fibres are found, with a low and high lipid content respectively, while the bantam and starling have also a third, intermediate type. These intermediate fibres have a characteristically intermediate lipid content, peripherally situated nuclei and areas with a myofibrillar structure. The proportion of the two or three types of fibres varies with the species and in the distal and proximal parts of the muscle. The innervation of the peroneus longus muscle is different in the three species. In the quail, the two types of fibres have only one arboriform motor end-plate per fibre. In the bantam, the two types of homologous fibres also have only one motor end-plate, but with fewer arborifications. The intermediate fibre type, on the other hand, is innervated by several small nerve endings for each muscle fibre. This type of multiple innervation is also found in the starling. The peroneus longus muscle is thus functionally different in the two birds of the order Gallinaceae, whereas the rapid and slow system of innervation is found in the bantam and the starling. In the quail and the bantam, there is a strong positive correlation between the diameter of the muscle fibre and the longitudinal extent of the motor end-plate. This correlation is not marked in the starling. The characteristics of the innervation revealed by the cholinesterase activity concentrated in the synaptic grooves were confirmed by a direct study of the nerve fibres, using the Bielschowsky-Gros method. In the quail only ‘en plaque’ endings are found, while in the bantam and the starling both ‘en plaque’ and ‘en grappe’ endings are present. A parallel is drawn between the differences in function of the peroneus longus muscle and the characteristic features of its histology and innervation in the three species.
Electron-microscopic study of monotreme neuroglia
Authors: Lambeth L. , Blunt M.J.
Published: July 2008

Glia cells were examined in the brains of a mature platypus and an immature echidna. In the echidna a few dark, organelle-rich glia cells were encountered. The lighter glia cells had resemblances with the single type of glia cell encountered in the brain of the platypus. These cells were characterised by highly homogeneous areas of nuclear chromatin and light cytoplasm containing dark, finely granular condensations which frequently surrounded Golgi membranes. Microtubules were present within the cytoplasm but neither filaments nor glycogen-like particles were encountered. It was concluded that the cells described conformed to the types of neither astrocytes nor oligodendrocytes as encountered in metatherian and eutherian mammals. Among their functional capacities such cells presumably include, either in the immature or mature forms, the roles of both astrocytes and oligodendrocytes.
Response of the pituitary of the catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch), to bilateral ovariectomy
Authors: Anand T.C. , Sundararaj Bangalore I.
Published: July 2008

Hypophyseal response to bilateral ovariectomy was studied in the catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis, during the prespawning (May) and the spawning (July) periods. During the prespawning period, a significant increase in the number of granulated PAS-positive basophils in the proximal pars distalis of the castrates was recorded on day 45 post-ovariectomy; thereafter a gradual degranulation of basophils was observed. However, in the spawning period a dramatic increase in the number of granulated basophils of the castrates was seen on day 8 post-ovariectomy and the number decreased thereafter. This differential response of the hypophysis to ovariectomy is discussed.
Postnatal study on the histochemistry of epididymis in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Goyal Hari Om , Dhingra L.D.
Published: July 2008

The histochemical localisation and development of carbohydrates, acid mucopolysaccharides, lipids and desoxyribonucleic acid has been determined in the head, body and tail segments of buffalo epididymis at different stages of postnatal development from 3–76 weeks of age. The cytoplasm contains numerous Schiff-positive, diastase-resistant granules which are abundant in the apical region of the epithelial cells at 3–52 weeks. They decrease in number at 72–76 weeks and instead, a diffuse Schiff-positive material is observed in the cytoplasm of the cells, particularly in regions III–VI of the epididymis. In all the stages of development, the basement membrane and the luminal border of the epithelial cells have strong PAS-positive reaction. The intertubular connective tissue is mildly PAS-reactive, with moderate activity on the endothelial lining and smooth muscles of blood vessels. The capsule shows an intense Schiff-positive material in the fibers while the stereocilia are mildly reactive. PAS activity is less in region I and greater in regions V–VI as compared with the other regions of the epididymis. A moderate quantity of lipids is present in the epithelial cells and smooth muscles of the tubules. Sudanophilia is more pronounced in the tail region as compared with the head and body regions of the epididymis. Acid mucopolysaccharides are present, minutely, in the epithelial cell cytoplasm, with moderate activity on the stereocilia of the tubules. The Feulgen reaction is deep in region I and light to moderate in the other regions of the epididymis.
Neurohistological and histochemical observations on the lung of Rattus rattus rufescens (Indian black rat)
Authors: Purwar R.S.
Published: July 2008

The intrinsic innervation of the lungs (right and left) has been studied by the cholinesterase technique, considering the effect of various pH, incubation periods and temperatures. Cholinergic innervation dominated. The peribronchial ganglia, large, medium-sized and irregular-shaped, rounded and small, showed a positive cholinesterase reaction. Maximum ChE activity was noticed in the bronchi and their branches and on the periphery of the alveoli.
Histochemical observations on the juxtanuclear complex of organelles in the hamster oocyte
Authors: Guraya Sardul S.
Published: July 2008

The hamster ovarian oocyte surrounded by 2–3 layers of granulosa cells develops a large juxtanuclear complex of organelles, consisting of basophilic substance, mitochondria and some lipid inclusion bodies. The basophilic substance staining for RNA, protein and so me diffuse lipoprotein forms the material with which the granular mitochondria, composed of protein and phospholipid, apparently multiply. The lipid inclusion bodies consist of phospholipids. The results of this histochemical investigation have been correlated with those of ultrastructural studies on the hamster oocyte. The paranuclear complex of organelles described in this paper has also been compared and contrasted with that seen in the primordial oocyte of hamster, as reported in the previous publication. The functional significance of juxtanuclear entities has been discussed in relation to the multiplication of organelles to be accumulated during oocyte growth.
Effect of carbon tetrachloride on the hepatic alkaline and acid phosphatases in a teleost fish, Heteropneustes fossilis
Authors: Sastry K.V. , Agrawal V.P.
Published: July 2008

The effect of carbon tetrachloride on the liver of Heteropneustes fossilis was investigated in relation to the activity of phosphatases. 3 h after intraperitoneal injection, the liver showed binucleate cells, balloon cells and necrosis. The cell membrane of the hepatocytes around the biliary canaliculi is ruptured at a few places and the cellular exudates are accumulated in the canaliculi. The nucleus is enlarged and becomes pycnotic. Intense alkaline and acid phosphatase activity is observed along the cell membrane, around the nucleus and nucleolus. 5 h after injection, the liver cell membrane is ruptured and cirrhosis results. The cell volume is decreased and the contents of the cell are accumulated at a few places. The nucleus is fragmented. Strong phosphatase activity is seen throughout the cells, especially around the nucleus and cell membrane.
Response of the hypothalamic neurosecretory system of the female catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch), to hypophysectomy
Authors: Viswanathan N. , Sundararaj Bangalore I.
Published: July 2008

The effect of hypophysectomy on the hypothalamic neurosecretory system of the catfish, H. fossilis, was studied. Hypophysectomy resulted initially in an accumulation of NSM at the distal ends of the cut axons. The axons had grown and were reorganized into a neurohypophysis-like structure 3 weeks after hypophysectomy, and this persisted even more than 3 years post-hypophysectomy.
Hypothalamohypophysial vascular and neurosecretory link in the teleost Bagarius bagarius (Ham.)
Authors: Sathyanesan A.G. , Jose T.M.
Published: July 2008

A three-dimensional picture of the hypothalamohypophysial neurosecretory system of B. bagarius could be obtained by adopting in situ staining techniques. The paired NPO give rise to left and right neurosecretory tracts which, although they approximate as a common tract, maintain their individuality till entering the pars intermedia. The ventral hypothalamic and the hypophysial arteries take their origin from the internal carotid artery. The former contributes to the formation of the primary plexus of the median eminence and the latter enters the pituitary directly, giving rise to the neuroadreno-interface vasculature. The vasculature of the median eminence lies in close contact with the long common neurosecretory tract. Morphological evidence suggests that in B. bagarius there are three pathways of hypothalamic control of the hypophysis: (1) A direct neuroglandular pathway, where the neurosecretory axons come directly in contact with the adreno-hypophysial cells. (2) An indirect neurovasculoglandular pathway, where the blood exposed to the NSM at the median eminence comes in contact with gland cells. (3) Another indirect neurovasculoglandular pathway, where the blood is exposed to NSM at the neurohypophysis prior coming in contact with the gland cells. Thus, B. bagarius has the ‘median eminence equivalent’ neuroadeno-interface vasculature typical of the teleosts and the median eminence comparable to the Elasmobranchs, Holocephali and primitive Actinopterygians. This shows that the pituitary portal system of teleosts is in general agreement with that of other fish groups, except that in some it is restricted to the neuroadreno-interface, whereas in others like B. bagarius it extends to the hypothalamus also. These may be termed anterior and posterior median eminence.
Cytochrome oxidase and ascorbic acid in the normal and regenerating tail of the Scincid lizard, Mabuya carinata
Authors: Ramachandran A.V. , Radhakrishnan N. , Shah R.V.
Published: July 2008

The concentration of ascorbic acid (AA) and the histochemical distribution of this vitamin together with cytochrome oxidase have been investigated in the normal and regenerating tail of the Scincid lizard, Mabuya carinata. An interesting aspect of this investigation is the observation of a total lack of cytochrome oxidase in both the normal and regenerating tail of the lizard, except for the differentiating phase. On the other hand, AA has been found to be present in the normal and regenerating tail with above normal levels during wound healing (twofold) and differentiation (fivefold). In the light of the poor cytochrome oxidase activity, the higher content of AA noted during regeneration has been construed to play a possible role in the respiratory mechanics of the regenerating lizard tail. Further, the importance of AA in cellular metabolism and the wound healing and differentiative processes have also been discussed.
Changes induced by formalin in the hypothalamic neurosecretory system of the spotted owlet, Athene brama Temminck
Authors: Singh Kunwar Bahadur , Dominic C.J.
Published: July 2008

Histological changes induced in the HNS of the spotted owlet, Athene brama Temminck, by injection of 1 ml 5 or 10 % formalin are described. No difference could be detected in the response of the HNS to 5 or 10 % formalin administration. In the HNS of birds killed within 5 min of formalin administration, there was only partial depletion of NSM from the neurons, the tract and the NL; the quantity of NSM in the AME remained more or less unchanged. In animals killed 10–90 min after formalin injection, the depletion of NSM from the neurons, the tract and the NL was more complete. The neurons of the preoptic division of the SON exhibited the maximum response; these neurons were also moderately hypertrophied. The NL also was hypertrophied in some animals; the NSM in the AME registered only a partial loss. The interval between formalin administration and killing did not influence the degree of changes in the HNS. The depletion of NSM was no greater at 90 min following formalin injection than at 10 min. Since it is well established that formalin stress causes augmented secretion of ADH and that there is a close functional relationship existing between ADH and NSM, the depletion of NSM noticed in the HNS of the spotted owlet following formalin administration is interpreted as indicating augmented secretion of ADH. Hence it seems that the responses of the HNS of birds to formalin stress are comparable to those of the HNS of mammals. The results thus provide histological evidence in favour of the concept that stressful stimuli cause increased secretion of ADH.
Histoenzymological demonstration of alkaline and acid phosphatases in the intestinal mucosa of several birds, viz. Ploceus philippinus, Megalaima haemacephala and Halcyon smyrnensis
Authors: Singh S.P.
Published: July 2008

Alkaline and acid phosphatases were histochemically localized in the ileum of three birds with diverse feeding habits. The birds chosen for study included the granivorous Ploceus philippinus, the frugivorous Megalaima haemacephala, and the mainly piscivorous Halcyon smyrnensis. It was found that the activity of these phosphatases tend to be greater in H. smyrnensis and M. haemacephala and comparatively less in P. philippinus, as denoted by variable enzymatic deposition. Simultaneously, their functional significance has been discussed, correlating enzymatic activities with the specific feeding habits of the birds.
Structural changes in the granulosa lutein cells of pregnant cows between 60 and 245 days
Authors: Singh U.B.
Published: July 2008

The structural changes in the granulosa lutein cells in the pregnant cows between 60 and 245 days, were observed. The polyhedral or plump cells had an acido-philic cytoplasm around the spherical nucleus. The glycogen granules increased in number up to 230 days of pregnancy. The lipid globules increased in size and amount during advanced pregnancy. The mitochondria showed a wide range of variations in shape and size. The matrix of many mitochondria contained dense inclusions which replaced the entire matrix in late pregnancy. The endoplasmic reticulum was chiefly of smooth type but a few stacks of the rough variety could be seen in the early days of pregnancy. Sometimes, whorls of smooth-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum enclosing mitochondria were seen. The Golgi complex was fully developed in the granulosa cells of all cases studied. The dense granules and lipid globules increased in size and number in the older corpora lutea. The cell surface showed numerous infoldings of the plasma membrane.
Postnatal study on the histology and histochemistry of ductuli efferentes testis in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) from birth to one and a half years
Authors: Goyal Hari Om , Dhingra L.D.
Published: July 2008

The efferent ductules were situated between the cranial border of the testis and the head of epididymis. The ductules were highly convoluted and formed a conical mass embedded in the dense irregular connective tissue near region I of the head of epididymis. Simple columnar with a few cuboidal cells characterised the epithelium at 3–32 weeks, whereas in later stages of development it was mainly cuboidal with a few columnar cells. The basal cells were also observed lining the basement membrane in some of the tubules. The cells were devoid of cilia, smooth muscles surrounding the tubules were absent. PAS-reactive carbohydrates, glycogen, acid mucopolysaccharides, alkaline phosphatase were demonstrated on the efferent ductules at different stages of postnatal study.