bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Das experimentelle HIPA-Plasmozytom der Maus
Authors: Pedio G.
Published: October 2008

HIPA tumor is the denomination of an experimental plasmacytoma of mice. It can be transmitted by inoculation of cell-free extracts in syngenic or allogenic mice or by tumor cell transplant in syngenic mice. HIPA tumor was originally induced in the mesentery of BALB/c mice by intraperitoneal injection of spleen homogenate, obtained from a syngenic mouse, pretreated with incomplete Freund’s adjuvant. The original HIPA tumor was histologically an undifferentiated sarcoma. It underwent differentiation to plasmacytoma in the course of several transplant generations. This differentiation was characterized by loss of collagen fibers and appearance of annulate lamellae and dilatation of ergastoplasmic cysternae. HIPA tumor presented the following characteristics: (a) secretion of abnormal proteins in the course of the 3rd to 28th transplant generation; (b) appearance of a thrombocytopenía in the host after intraperitoneal inoculation of tumor cells; (c) formation of osteolytical and osteoplastic bone lesions after inoculation of tumor cells; (d) absence of splenic metastases regardless of the route of tumor inoculation. Oncogenic virus-like type C and A particles were found in the spleen of mineral oil-treated BALB/c mice and in HIPA tumor tissues of numerous transplant generations. After repeated attempts to isolate and enrich HIPA oncogenic virus by conventional methods, a double inoculation method was devised. It consisted of an initial intraperitoneal transplantation of HIPA tumor cells followed by intraperitoneal injection of HIPA cell-free tumor extracts. This procedure was repeated in several subsequent generations. Cell-free extracts of tumors which developed after double inoculation contained numerous virus-like type C particles. Such extracts induced plasmacytomas in syngenic and allogenic mice.
Bedeutung der Mikroorganismen für aquatische Stoffkreisläufe
Authors: Wuhrmann K.
Published: October 2008

A short survey of the characteristics of ecological niches in aquatic environments, settled by microbes (procaryotes), is given. Cell density and substrate concentration for heterotrophic species are strongly correlated in natural water masses (oceans, lakes). The low concentration in water of conventional substrates for organotrophic microbes (order of magnitude 10-9 Mol/l for amino acids, carbohydrates, etc.) affects the kinetics of the substrate uptake and the growth rate of water bacteria. It must be assumed that substrate receptor activities at cell surfaces of so-called oligocarbophilic bacteria are much higher than with saprophytes from more concentrated media (e.g. terrestrial strains).
Antigenic Relationship between the Fission-Yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Ascosporogenous and Asporogenous Yeasts
Authors: Segal E. , Eylan E.
Published: October 2008

Antigenic relationship of ten asporogenous and ascosporogenous yeast strains were studied by the agar-gel diffusion, slide and tube agglutination tests. Five Candida species (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. pseudotropicalis, C. krusei, C. guillermondii), three Saccharomyces species (S. cerevisiae var. elipsoideus, S. uvarum, S. bayanus), the fission-yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, and Kluyveromyces fragilis, were tested against anti-extract sera of Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. elipsoideus and Candida albicans. The precipitation and agglutination data obtained with the anti-Schizosaccharomyces serum, the strongest of the three analyzed sera, show a close antigenic relationship between Schiz. pombe and S. uvarum. Cross-precipitation and agglutination reactions between some of the studied Candida species and the anti-Schizosaccharomyces serum were obtained.
Study of Efficiency of some Modifications of Medium B-2 for the Primary Cultivation of Tubercle Bacteria
Authors: Banič S. , Budič Sonja
Published: October 2008

It was found that the addition of 0.5% of glucose to the medium B-2 decreases the latter’s efficiency. The same was true for the addition of ribonucleic acid. Penicillin was a little more effective as decontaminant than malachite green. The medium prepared with fresh human plasma gave the same results as the medium prepared with human serum.
Die Marburg-Virus-Enzephalitis der weissen Maus
Authors: Dinges H.P. , Kovac W. , Hofmann H. , Kunz Ch.
Published: October 2008

Baby mice, a few hours old, were infected intracerebrally with the mouse-adapted strain ‘F’ of ‘Marburg virus’. 4, 8 and 11 days thereafter the animals were sacrificed and examined histologically as well as mice which died after 11 days post infectionem. From the histological examination it can be concluded that 8 days p.i. a spotted polioencephalitis develops in relation to the blood vessels. However, 11 days p.i. a panencephalitis was observed. Only weak defense mechanisms of the brain tissues were found. All the other inner organs examined were free of pathological alterations. Differences to other well-known experimental encephalitides are discussed.
Detection of Vaccinia Antigen and Antibody by Counterelectrophoresis
Authors: Kyriakidou A. , Kourea-Kremastinou T. , Papaevangelou G. , Vassiliadis P.
Published: October 2008

Counterelectrophoresis (CEP) for detection of vaccinia antigen and antibody is described. This method gives precipitation lines and reactions of immunological identity in less than 1 h. Moreover it is 5 times more sensitive than immunodiffusion (ID). CEP as well as ID are not sensitive enough to be used for the demonstration of vaccinia antibody in vaccinated persons.
Nature’s Experiments and Medical Research
Authors: Hutt M.S.R.
Published: October 2008

The majority of human diseases are due to environmental factors and this largely determines the differences in disease pattern between different parts of the world. The situation in Africa and other developing countries, presents a series of natural experiments which, properly observed and investigated, throw light on many of the major problems of world health such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. The frequency of malnutrition and infectious disease has given a better understanding of the interplay of these two conditions and of their effects on immunological mechanisms. It is concluded that observations on natural experiments can still play an important role in medical research.
Geographical Variations in the Morphology of the Small Intestinal Mucosa in Apparently Healthy Individuals
Authors: Baker S.J.
Published: October 2008

Macroscopic and microscopic photographs of seven jejunal biopsies illustrating the range of morphological changes found in southern Indian control subjects were circulated, together with a questionaire, to observers in different parts of the world. There was general agreement among the observers regarding the ‘normality’ of the biopsy showing the least changes and the abnormality of the two showing the most marked changes, but considerable disagreement over those intermediate between these two extremes. Opinion regarding the prevalence of the different biopsy appearances in control subjects varied significantly between temperate and tropical areas. A hierarchy of abnormality has been drawn up ranking countries in decreasing order of prevalence of the two most abnormal biopsies. Possible factors in the pathogenesis of the morphological changes in the jejunal mucosa in the tropics are discussed.
The Carotid Body in Human Cardiopulmonary Disease
Authors: Heath D.
Published: October 2008

Both carotid bodies were weighed in a series of 29 subjects in whom the cardiac ventricles were weighed separately and the percentages of lung involved by emphysema were measured by point counting. The carotid bodies were enlarged in some cases of emphysema but there was no relation between total carotid body weight and the type or severity of emphysema. Rather the enlargement occurred in those cases complicated by right ventricular hypertrophy which is in itself a consequence of hypoxia.
The Carotid Bodies at Simulated High Altitude
Authors: Blessing M.H. , Wolff H.
Published: October 2008

Female Wistar rats were adapted in consecutive steps to a simulated altitude of 7,500 m over 3 to 4 month in a low-pressure chamber. Compared to control groups from a level of 36 m the adapted animals showed less increase in body weight. There is a rise in the erythrocyte count, the haemoglobin and the haematocrit. The carotid bodies of the experimental animals are increased in volume from 32.8 106µm3 in controls to 194.5 106µm3. The chief cells are large and project histologically into the dialated capillary bed. There is frequent intravascular thrombosis with partial hyalinisation of the glomera and degeneration of chief cells.
Ultrastructural Study of the Normal Rabbit Synovium
Authors: Watanabe H. , Spycher M.A. , Rüttner J.R.
Published: October 2008

The major lining cells of normal rabbit synovium are morphologically classified into two types. One type resembling macrophages or histiocytes (M type) is characterized by dense peripheral nuclear chromatin, many cytoplasmic vacuoles, coated vesicles, poorly developed, rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and numerous filopodia. Some of the superficially located M cells containing accumulated cytoplasmic filaments are small and less active than the lower M cells. The second type resembling fibroblasts (F type) possesses dispersed nuclear chromatin, distended RER, prominent Golgi apparatus and abundant smooth-surfaced pino-cytotic vesicles. Lysosomal inclusions are commonly seen in both types of cells. In view of the morphological and functional similarities of M cells and regular macrophages or histiocytes, respectively, it seems likely that they are derived from common precursors and these precursor cells differ from those of F cells.
Identification and Typing of Viruses and Detection of Antiviral Antibodies by Counterimmunoelectrophoresis
Authors: Tsotsos A.S.A.
Published: October 2008

20 virus types and subtypes belonging to several viral groups and their respective antisera were tested by counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIEP). Group-, type- and/or subtype-specific precipitation lines were formed provided the viral antigens and antisera were sufficiently concentrated and potent. Although the CIEP test itself is more rapid (less than 3 h) and simple than other commonly used tests for virus identification, such as complement fixation, it requires concentration of the antigen to a considerable degree, especially in the case of viruses with little antigenic mass (e.g. polioviruses).
F Antigen
Authors: Utzinger R.
Published: October 2008

The liver-specific autoantigen F was purified to monodispersity from man, beef, and mouse by conventional methods of protein chemistry. A negative version of immunosorption with Sepharose-bound rabbit anti-mouse liver immunoglooulins was partly successful. A molecular parameter (designated pIE) was worked out for direct comparison of anion-exchange data from the multiple forms of F antigens found in some of the species. Anion-exchange chromatography was the main tool for separating the multiple molecular forms differing in electrical properties.
Influence of Sex and Sex Hormones on Transplantable Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Rat
Authors: Reuber Melvin D.
Published: October 2008

Palpable subcutaneous transplants of hepatocellular carcinoma-35 appeared slightly earlier in male animals; however, the number of successful growths was no greater than that in female animals. Castration and administration of testosterone or diethylstilbestrol were performed after the transplants reached 1.0–1.5 cm in size. The carcinoma was less well differentiated histologically, had more bile pigment, grew rapidly, metastasized sooner and killed the host quickly in castrated females given testosterone propionate. Bile was present in lung metastases. There was little difference in the growth rate in intact or castrated male or female animals. Exogenous diethylstilbestrol slowed the growth of the transplants and caused weight loss in castrated males. The weight loss was felt to be related to extensive necrosis of the carcinoma.
Cells Involved in the Immune Response
Authors: Richter Maxwell , Behelak Youssef
Published: October 2008

Attempts were made to initiate the primary and secondary humoral immune responses to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in vitro as determined by the hemolytic plaque-forming cell (PFC) response, with cell suspensions prepared from a variety of lymphoid organs of the rabbit – thymus, bone marrow, spleen, appendix, sacculus rotundus, Peyer’s patches, popliteal lymph node and circulating leukocytes. A number of different media and gaseous phases were utilized in order to establish the optimal conditions for the immune response in vitro. The induction of a secondary PFC response was consistently obtained with ‘memory’ spleen cells obtained from rabbits 3–6 months following intravenous immunization with SRBC but not with cells of any of the other lymphoid organs, and this response probably represents the activity of memory cells which reside in the rabbit spleen. A primary response was observed only with ‘normal’ spleen cells, and the medium which facilitated the response was different from that which facilitated the induction of the secondary response in vitro. It was also observed, using a medium in which normal spleen cells were incapable of generating PFCs, that mixed cultures of normal spleen and normal appendix or bone marrow cells could give a marked PFC response in vitro. Whether the PFC response to SRBCs obtained with the lymphoid cells of normal, unimmunized rabbits represents a true primary response, a secondary response, or a response of a different nature as a consequence of continuous subthreshold immunization of the rabbit with enteric microorganisms which cross-react with the antigen, remains to be determined. However, our initial successes with cultures consisting of cells of at least two distinct lymphoid organs in cases where the cells of any one of these organs could not respond, suggest that interaction of at least two functionally distinct cells is required and that the response observed in vitro is probably a primary immune response.
Bacteroides und Appendizitis
Authors: Werner H. , Kunštek-Santos H. , Schockemöhle C. , Gündürewa M.
Published: October 2008

Bacteroides fragilis is frequently recovered from cases of appendicitis with perforation and from infections developing secondary to appendicitis. In order to assess the part played by B. fragilis in the aetiology of appendicitis, quantitative aerobic and anaerobic culture studies of the contents of 49 inflammated appendices were performed. Anaerobic gram-negative non-sporing rods were cultivated from 43 appendices in the range 103–109/g. A total of 1,473 isolates was differentiated by biochemical methods, and 1,374 cultures were found to belong to the saccharolytic species of the genus Bacteroides (B. fragilis, B. thetaiotaomicron, B. vulgatus, B. distasonis etc.). B. fragilis was detected in 31 appendices; the species predominated in 18 samples. B. thetaiotaomicron, recovered from 27 samples, was prevalent in 4 appendices. In one sample, B. fragilis and B. thetaiotaomicron outnumbered the other appendicular bacteria. B. vulgatus was cultivated from 12 appendices, but did not once constitute the prevalent group. It has been previously shown that B. vulgatus (43% of intestinal isolates) and B. thetaiotaomicron predominate in the normal large bowel flora. On the other hand, approximately 80% of pyogenic Bacteroides strains belong to B. fragilis, B. thetaiotaomicron accounting for 19% and B. vulgatus being virtually absent. From these striking differences in species distribution the conclusion was drawn that B. fragilis possesses the highest virulence for man. Species distribution within the 1,374 appendicular isolates of saccharolytic Bacteroides (percentages of 62, 19 and 4.3 for B. fragilis, B. thetaiotaomicron, and B. vulgatus, respectively) was very similar to that encountered in clinical specimens. From the results obtained it becomes evident that pyogenic Bacteroides, in particular B. fragilis, plays an important role in nearly 50% of cases of appendicitis.
Carcinoma and Cirrhosis of the Liver in A × C Male Rats with One Kidney Ingesting 0.025% N-2-Fluorenyldiacetamide
Authors: Reuber Melvin Dwaine
Published: October 2008

The role of the kidneys in hepatic carcinogenesis was studied in inbred A × C strain male rats ingesting 0.025 % N-2-fluorenyldiacetamide. The experimental groups consisted of male rats with both kidneys intact and male rats that had the left kidney removed. The incidence of hepatic carcinomas and the number of rats with large carcinomas, multiple carcinomas, poorly differentiated and undifferentiated carcinomas, and metastases was greater in rats with a left nephrectomy. The incidence of cirrhosis was the same in animals in both groups; however, cirrhosis was more severe in degree in the rats with the left kidney removed. Some animals in the latter group also developed carcinosarcomas of the salivary glands. The animals with one kidney apparently were not able to excrete the active metabolites of N-2-fluorenyldiacetamide as readily as the animals with both kidneys intact. The metabolites were then returned to the liver and salivary gland.
Inhibition of HBsAg Immunologic Reactivity and Intestinal Aerobic Flora
Authors: Molinari V. , Cacciatore L. , Cozzolino G. , Piazza M.
Published: October 2008

Cultures of human intestinal aerobic flora did not have any inhibiting action on the immunologic reactivity of hepatitis B antigen even after disruption of bacterial cells by freezing and thawing. This suggests that the inhibitor is elaborated by the human intestinal mucosa.
M Protein of Type 12 Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Havlíček Jircaron;í
Published: October 2008

A method for the isolation and purification of M protein was developed. Purified cell walls were sonically disrupted, solubilized M protein was precipitated by ammonium sulphate and then electrofocused. Both in this material and in hot acid extracts type-specific trypsin-sensitive antigens with two separately precipitating moieties were found. Evidence is adduced showing that they both belong to the M protein complex. The molecular weight of our purified M protein ranged between 400,000 and 20,000 daltons, giving a peak at 150,000 daltons. The pI of this material was found to be 5.4–5.6. There were marked differences between the behaviour of the low, medium and high molecular weight fractions obtained from purified M protein by gel filtration.
Immunchemische Aspekte der Antigenität
Authors: Schneider C.H.
Published: October 2008

A number of chemically definable parameters related to antigenicity are discussed. These include determinant size and density, antigen shape as well as eliciting, inhibiting and tolerogenic capacities of model antigens, notably those of the penicillin allergy model. A kinetic argument for a restricted antibody diversity is presented.
Tumorimmunologie
Authors: Barandun S. , Morell A.
Published: October 2008

Prerequisites for immunobiological interactions between host and tumor are the existence of tumor-specific surface antigens on cancer cells on the one hand, and the ability of the host to recognize and to adequately respond to these signals on the other. It seems that in certain selected animal models these conditions are matched. The relations of the spontaneously arising human tumors to these prerequisites, however, are still largely obscure. It is known that immunological measures can both accelerate or inhibit tumor growth. Thus, immunoprophylaxis and immunotherapy in man is still premature and too risky.
Proliferation of Synovial Tissue Cells in Rats with Adjuvant Disease
Authors: Mohr W. , Wild A. , Paulini K.
Published: October 2008

Proliferation of synovial lining cells and fibroblasts in adjuvant arthritis of rats was investigated by autoradiographic methods. As manifestation of the generalized experimental disease increased labelling rates of both cell types were found in all joints. While in the knee joint this cellular proliferation was of a short duration, it progressed in the ankle joint until the joints were destroyed. It is concluded that increased cellular proliferation is an important mechanism leading to joint destruction in adjuvant arthritis.
Chemical Carcinogenesis in the Hamster Cheek Pouch
Authors: Rubin D. , Levij I.S.
Published: October 2008

Squamous cell carcinomas were induced in the hamster cheek pouch with 9,10-dimethyl-1, 2-benzanthracene. The process of carcinogenesis was inhibited by phenylphosphate, an inducer of alkaline phosphatase. Orthophosphate and l-phenylalanine, which inhibit alkaline phosphatase, had a promoting effect on tumor formation. The results are in accordance with those of previous studies on the effect of inducers of alkaline phosphatase on chemical carcinogenesis. The effect of the studied substances on carcinogenesis was apparently unrelated to the presence of phenyl or phosphate groups or of steroid rings. The tumor inhibition or promotion seemed to be related to the potential of the tested substances to induce or inhibit alkaline phosphatase activity.
Beitrag zur Morphologie der myometrialen und dezidualen Arterien bei normalen Schwangerschaften, EPH-Gestosen und mütterlichem Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Emmrich P. , Birke R. , Gödel E.
Published: October 2008

127 specimens, obtained by different methods from the myometrium and the placental bed after parturition, are investigated histologically. This material includes normal pregnancies as well as cases of maternal diabetes with and without hypertension and cases of hypertension in EPH-gestosis. The different parts of the arterial system (spiral arteries, basal arteries, radial arteries) are separately investigated. Physiologically, the pregnancy induces changes in the wall of the decidual arteries and possibly in the distal part of the radial arteries. The fibromuscular layer including the elastic fibers were destructed and replaced by fibrin and connective tissue. For this reason, in these parts of arteries it is very difficult to separate pathological from physiological changes. Maternal hypertension produces in myometrial, basal and decidual arteries (myometrial part) a thickening of the arterial wall. This thickening is caused in arteries with normal structure by hypertrophy of the media, in the spiral arteries by intimal processes (edematous reaction of the intima, deposition of foam cells) and fibrinoid necrosis of the arterial wall. The cases of maternal diabetes without hypertension are characterized by an increase of fibrin deposits in the wall of the distal part of the spiral artery. In the proximal part of the spiral artery we have found in two cases without hypertension some foam cells in the wall. Myometrial arteries show particularly thickening of the wall and narrowing of the arterial lumen, less frequently intimal swelling and groups of foam cells. In diabetes mellitus, complicated by hypertension, we could find changes in the proximal part of the spiral artery and in the basal arteries. This alterations correspond with the changes in cases of hypertension without diabetes. In the myometrial arteries the pathological processes are the same as in cases of diabetes without hypertension. A significant increase of pathological processes by the diabetes mellitus alone exists only in the myometrial arteries. Besides, in the small arterial vessels of the myometrium in diabetes occurs a proliferative angiolopathy, involving cases of White classes D and F only. We could demonstrate the so-called ‘acute atherosis’ in a small number of cases in the myometrial part of the spiral artery and in the distal part of the radial artery, too. It concerns especially cases of maternal hypertension, more seldom cases of normal pregnancy and diabetic pregnancy without hypertension.
Fowl Plague Virus Adapted to Human Leukemia Cells: Interaction with Normal Human Leukocytes and Plastic Surfaces
Authors: Borek Eva , Sauter Christian
Published: October 2008

An avian influenza A virus which grows well in human leukemic myeloblasts was unable to replicate in normal human leukocytes. The virus adhered during the first hours of incubation to plastic surfaces and to leukocytes and was then released into the supernatant; care should be taken not to confuse this with viral growth.
Histogenesis of Hyperplasia and Carcinomas of the Liver Arising around Central Veins in Mice Ingesting Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
Authors: Reuber Melvin Dwaine
Published: October 2008

The development of hyperplastic and neoplastic lesions of parenchymal cells of the liver adjacent to central veins was observed in C3H mice ingesting the chlorinated hydrocarbons, dieldrin or aldrin, in the diet. Lesions could be followed from pericentral hyperplasia to areas of hyperplasia, nodules of hyperplasia, small hepatocellular carcinomas, and large well-developed carcinomas, occasionally with metastases. Sometimes pericentral hyperplasia was diffuse throughout most or all of one lobe of the liver. These hyperplastic cells collided to become one large nodule and also one large carcinoma. The carcinomas were well-differentiated or moderately well-differentiated and grew on transplantation to isologous hosts. Histologically, the hyperplastic cells adjacent to central veins were increased in size, frequently with double nuclei. Carcinoma cells varied in size and shape and were huge with large nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and eosinophilic cytoplasm. Similar hepatocellular carcinomas were seen previously with carbon tetrachloride, another organochlorine chemical.
Effects of Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) on Infection of Adult Mice with the Thogoto-Like Ar-126 Arbovirus
Authors: Salerno Alfredo , Albanese Mario , Byfield Patricia
Published: October 2008

Inoculation of mice with Newcastle disease virus (NDV) alters the course of infection with the Thogoto-like arbovirus Tho-Ar-126. The Tho-Ar-126 content of liver, spleen, and lymph nodes was approximately 10 times greater in mice treated with NDV 24 h before infection; the mortality was somewhat increased, but liver damage (as indicated by serum transaminase levels) did not seem to be potentiated. Lymphocytopenia was observed in NDV-inoculated mice, and in the spleen and lymph nodes the proportion of lymphocytes susceptible to lysis by anti-Éµ (a marker for thymus-derived lymphocytes) was markedly decreased in these animals. This suggests that NDV potentiates infection by Tho-Ar-126 through its action on thymus-derived lymphocytes.
Presence of HBsAg in the Bile of Subjects with Acute HBsAg Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Piazza M. , Cacciatore L. , Molinari V. , Guadagnino V. , Cataldo Tullio , Borgia G. , Gravina E. , Manzillo G. , Maio G.
Published: October 2008

During acute HBsAg serum positive viral hepatitis, the surface antigen was not detectable in duodenal bile but was almost always present in gallbladder and hepatic bile when cholecystokinin was intravenously administered. The immunologic nondemonstrability of HBsAg in duodenal bile is probably due to the presence of a factor elaborated by the intestinal mucosa. The possible role played by this factor in the non transmission of type B viral hepatitis via faecal-oral route is suggested.
Clones of Interstitial Cells From Bovine Aortic Valve Exhibit Different Calcifying Potential When Exposed to Endotoxin and Phosphate
Authors: Rattazzi Marcello , Iop Laura , Faggin Elisabetta , Bertacco Elisa , Zoppellaro Giacomo , Baesso Ilenia , Puato Massimo , Torregrossa Gianluca , Fadini Gian Paolo , Agostini Carlo , Gerosa Gino , Sartore Saverio , Pauletto Paolo
Published: October 2008

Objective—

Our purpose was to study in vitro whether phenotypically-distinct interstitial cell clones from bovine aortic valve (BVIC) possess different calcifying potential in response to endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide [LPS]) and phosphate (Pi).

Methods and Results—

Among various clones of BVIC obtained by limited dilution technique we selected 4 clones displaying different growth patterns and immunophenotypes. Uncloned and cloned cells were treated with combinations of LPS (100 ng/mL) and Pi (2.4 mmol/L). Uncloned BVIC showed increased alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) after treatment with LPS, which resulted in calcification after addition of Pi. Among BVIC clones, only
Clone 1
(fibroblast-like phenotype) showed a relevant increase in ALP after LPS treatment in parallel with prevention of smooth muscle (SM) α-actin accumulation. No effect was observed in clonal cells harboring a more stable SM cell-like profile (
Clone 4
). None of the isolated clones calcified but mineralization was induced in the presence of LPS plus Pi when
Clone 1
was cocultured with
Clone 4
or after seeding on type I collagen sponges.

Conclusion—

Endotoxin and phosphate can act as valve calcification promoters by targeting specific fibroblast-like interstitial valve cells that possess a unique procalcific potential.
Adenosine 5′-Tetraphosphate Is a Highly Potent Purinergic Endothelium-Derived Vasoconstrictor
Authors: Tölle Markus , Jankowski Vera , Schuchardt Mirjam , Wiedon Annette , Huang Tao , Hub Franziska , Kowalska Joanna , Jemielity Jacek , Guranowski Andrzej , Loddenkemper Christoph , Zidek Walter , Jankowski Joachim , van der Giet Markus
Published: October 2008

Besides serving as a mechanical barrier, the endothelium has important regulatory functions. The discovery of nitric oxide revolutionized our understanding of vasoregulation. In contrast, the identity of endothelium-derived vasoconstrictive factors still remains uncertain. The supernatant from mechanically stimulated human microvascular endothelial cells elicited a potent vasoconstrictive response in the isolated perfused rat kidney. Whereas a nonselective purinoceptor blocker blocked this vasoactivity most potently, the inhibition of the endothelin receptor by BQ123 weakly affected that vasoconstrictive response. As a compound responsible for that vasoconstrictive effect, we have isolated from HMECs and identified the mononucleotide adenosine 5′-tetraphosphate (AP4). This nucleotide proved to be the most potent vasoactive purinergic mediator identified to date, exerting the vasoconstriction predominantly through activation of the P2X1 receptor. The intraarterial application of AP4 in a Wistar–Kyoto rat induced a strong increase of the mean arterial pressure. The plasma concentration of AP4 is in the nanomolar range, which, in vivo, induces a significant change in the mean arterial pressure. To our knowledge, AP4, which exerts vasoactive effects, is the most potent endogenous mononucleotide identified to date in mammals. The effects of AP4, the plasma concentration of AP4, and its release suggest that this compound functions as an important vasoregulator.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the Zebrafish ETS Family Identifies Three Genes Required for Hemangioblast Differentiation or Angiogenesis
Authors: Liu Feng , Patient Roger
Published: October 2008

ETS domain transcription factors have been linked to hematopoiesis, vasculogenesis, and angiogenesis. However, their biological functions and the mechanisms of action, remain incompletely understood. Here, we have performed a systematic analysis of zebrafish ETS domain genes and identified 31 in the genome. Detailed gene expression profiling revealed that 12 of them are expressed in blood and endothelial precursors during embryonic development. Combined with a phylogenetic tree assay, this suggests that some of the coexpressed genes may have redundant or additive functions in these cells. Loss-of-function analysis of 3 of them,
erg
,
fli1
, and
etsrp
, demonstrated that
erg
and
fli1
act cooperatively and are required for angiogenesis possibly via direct regulation of an endothelial cell junction molecule, VE-cadherin, whereas
etsrp
is essential for primitive myeloid/endothelial progenitors (hemangioblasts) in zebrafish. Taken together, these results provide a global view of the ETS genes in the zebrafish genome during embryogenesis and provide new insights on the functions and biology of
erg
,
fli1
, and
etsrp
, which could be applicable to higher vertebrates, including mice and humans.
CD11c
+
Dendritic Cells Maintain Antigen Processing, Presentation Capabilities, and CD4
+
T-Cell Priming Efficacy Under Hypercholesterolemic Conditions Associated With Atherosclerosis
Authors: Packard René R.S. , Maganto-García Elena , Gotsman Israel , Tabas Ira , Libby Peter , Lichtman Andrew H.
Published: October 2008

Recent reports suggest dyslipidemia impairs dendritic cell (DC) function and adaptive immunity. This study aimed to characterize the effect of hypercholesterolemia on antigen-presenting cell function of DCs and DC-dependent CD4
+
T-cell responses. DCs incubated in vitro with acetylated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with or without an acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyl-transferase inhibitor maintained their ability to prime CD4
+
T cells. Analysis of T-cell proliferation and interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α production after ex vivo coculture of naïve CD4
+
T cells with splenic, inguinal, or iliac DCs from low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient (
LDLR
−/−
) or apolipoprotein E–deficient (
ApoE
−/−
) mice fed an atherogenic diet highlighted DC efficacy in effector T-cell generation under hypercholesterolemic conditions. Adoptive transfer of carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-labeled naïve CD4
+
T cells in
LDLR
−/−
recipients and subsequent immunization demonstrated effective priming of naïve T cells in hypercholesterolemic mice. CFSE dilution analyses revealed that hypercholesterolemic DCs were equipotent in naïve CD4
+
T-cell priming efficacy with normocholesterolemic DCs. Quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometric analyses demonstrated that DC expression of multiple molecules involved in antigen processing, presentation, and T-cell stimulation remained unaltered by dyslipidemia. Finally, endogenous antigen-primed CD4
+
T cells responded equivalently to a secondary ex vivo antigenic challenge, regardless of whether they were primed in vivo under hypercholesterolemic or control conditions, demonstrating that all essential steps in CD4
+
T-cell responses remain intact under atherogenic conditions. This study affirms that the adaptive immune response prevails under the hypercholesterolemic conditions present in atherosclerosis. In particular, DCs remain functional antigen-presenting cells and maintain their ability to prime CD4
+
T cells even when cholesterol-loaded.
Putting Educational Equality in Its Place
Authors: Brighouse Harry , Swift Adam
Published: October 2008

Educational equality is one important value of justice in education, but it is only one. This article makes a case for a meritocratic principle of educational equality and shows that certain arguments against that principle do not justify rejecting it. It would be wrong to, for the sake of educational equality, undermine the value of the family or economic growth in ways that damage the prospects for flourishing of the least advantaged. But insofar as educational equality can be improved without harming those other values, it should be pursued; in practice, educational equality can be pursued effectively within the limits set by those values.
Equality of Opportunity and School Finance: A Commentary on Ladd, Satz, and Brighouse and Swift
Authors: Strike Kenneth A.
Published: October 2008

This article discusses issues of justice concerning school finance with a focus on the development of a conception of equality of educational opportunity. Emphasis is put on discussing the views of the other contributors in this symposium. The main conclusions of the discussion are that (1) equity and adequacy are not inconsistent views because they address fundamentally different questions; (2) adequacy sets a floor under the education that the state owes to all children, but it does not relieve the state of the obligation to provide whatever additional education it chooses to provide equally; (3) equality of opportunity may be limited by conflicting rights; and (4) weighted student funding (WSF) is theoretically attractive because it emphasizes the funding of students rather than districts and is sensitive to relevant differences among them, however the level of theoretical agreement and empirical knowledge required to implement WSF in a nuanced way is not available.
Transformative Learning and Ancient Asian Educational Perspectives
Authors: Wang Victor C. X. , King Kathleen P.
Published: October 2008

Scholars and practitioners all seem to agree that andragogy is not the only perspective and model in the field of adult learning. We no longer think of learning as democratic styles and methods versus authoritarian styles and methods. Rather, we now think of learning as a reflective process where learners may engage their whole body and mind in a critical manner. Worldwide, there are many rich traditions that we can contrast the theory of transformative learning with to improve our understanding, appreciation, application, and further research of this theory to practice. This article explores the connections of Ancient Asian educational perspectives with transformative learning for these purposes.
Long-Term Outcomes of Physician Peer Teaching
Authors: Clark Noreen M. , Cabana Michael , Kaciroti Niko , Gong Molly , Sleeman Kathryn
Published: October 2008

Research conducted in 10 cities assessed long-term pediatric asthma outcomes from a peer teaching intervention for physicians to improve their asthma-related clinical and counseling skills. Hypotheses were better outcomes for patients, symptom reduction, less health care use, and enhanced view of the physician. Peers trained 53 intervention group pediatricians (seeing 418 patients); 48 pediatricians (seeing 452 patients) were controls. Patients provided baseline and 2-year follow-up data, collected by telephone interview and from medical records. Intent-to-treat analyses used Poisson regression and general estimation equations. Treatment physicians' patients gave them higher performance ratings ( P = .02). Patients had fewer sleep disruptions from asthma symptoms ( P = .03). Those with baseline health care use had fewer ED visits ( P = .005), hospitalizations ( P = .03), and urgent office visits ( P = .001), and they made fewer phone calls to the doctor's office ( P = .02). Treatment physicians spent no more patient visit time than control physicians. Peer training increased patient's positive views of clinician's performance and reduced children's symptoms and health care use up to two years post program.
Evaluation and Treatment of Hypertension in General Pediatric Practice
Authors: Boneparth Alexis , Flynn Joseph T.
Published: October 2008

Hypertension (HTN) in children and adolescents has become increasingly common. We sought to identify variability in the approach to HTN among general pediatricians as well as obstacles to care of hypertensive youth by surveying pediatricians referring to an urban children's hospital. Although most pediatricians begin blood pressure measurement at 3 years, there was substantial variability in the initial diagnostic evaluation of hypertensive patients. Just 7% of pediatricians routinely start antihypertensive drug treatment for HTN, whereas 82% refer their hypertensive patients to a specialist; 40% of pediatricians felt uncomfortable evaluating and treating HTN. Pediatricians unfamiliar with The Fourth Report were more likely to be uncomfortable with the care of hypertensive patients than those familiar with it (54% vs 33%, P < .05). Current practice does not appear to follow recent consensus recommendations. Interventions designed to address the issues identified in this survey may lead to improved care for pediatric patients with HTN.
Cleidocranial Dysplasia: Report of 3 Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Zheng Shen  , Chao Chun Zou  , Rong Wang Yang  , Zheng Yan Zhao
Published: October 2008

Background Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is an autosomal-dominant skeletal dysplasia syndrome that is characterized by widely patent calvarial sutures, clavicular hypoplasia, supernumerary teeth, and short stature. It is caused by mutations of the transcription factor RUNX2, which is known as a major regulator of bone differentiation.

Objective To report on 3 Chinese pediatric cases of CCD with an emphasis on the clinical presentation and diagnostic modalities.

Case Summary 3 Chinese children were admitted to our hospital because of short stature. All the children had hypoplastic clavicles, absent calvarium, open fontanel, and messy palmprint. Screening laboratory test results for bone mineral density, free thyroxine, and thyroid stimulating hormone were all normal. One child had mental retardation. Two were hereditary, and 1 was sporadic.

Conclusion These results showed that CCD should be suspected in patients with short stature and poor clavicles, calvarium, or teeth. Timely recognition and hereditary tendency counseling is required and useful.
Predictors of Pediatric Emergency Patients Discharged Against Medical Advice
Authors: Reinke Donald A. , Walker Mark , Boslaugh Sarah , Hodge Dee
Published: October 2008

Based on a retrospective 5-year medical record review, this study characterizes factors associated with patients discharged against medical advice (AMA) from a tertiary pediatric emergency department (ED) and compares rates of return to the ED and admission to the hospital with those of patients routinely discharged. Data from 94 patients discharged AMA are compared with those of 188 control patients. Pediatric patients at risk for discharge AMA are older than 15 years (odds ratio [OR], 3.561; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.695-7.482), self-register independent of a parent (OR, 3.100; 95% CI, 1.818-152.770), arrive by ambulance (OR, 2.761; 95% CI, 1.267-6.018), involve a consultant (OR, 2.592; 95% CI, 1.507-4.458), and have a chief complaint of abdominal pain (OR, 3.095; 95% CI, 1.154-8.303). Negative predictors include urgent triage (OR, 0.155; 95% CI, 0.039-0.618), a chief complaint of upper respiratory tract illness or otitis media (OR, 0.229; 95% CI, 0.075-0.702), and discharge diagnoses of infection (adjusted OR, 0.053; 95% CI, 0.004-0.767), disease of the nervous system and sense organs (adjusted OR, 0.066; 95% CI, 0.005-0.898), respiratory illness (adjusted OR, 0.072; 95% CI, 0.007-0.718), and gastrointestinal disease (adjusted OR, 0.050; 95% CI, 0.006-0.419). Certain key elements of discharge AMA are well documented, including consequences of discharge AMA (74.5%) and instructions for care (54.3%). Other elements such as alternative therapies (1.1%) are poorly documented. Patients discharged AMA have a significantly higher return rate (24.5%) within 15 days compared with patients who have routine discharge (6.4%) (χ2 = 18.85, P < .001). Ninety-six percent of patients who return to the ED have the same chief complaint at both visits if discharged AMA compared with 50% of patients who are discharged routinely ( P = .003), with 25% admission rates at the time of second visit for both types of discharges. Adolescents who register themselves are at increased risk for discharge AMA. Patients who are triaged as urgent or nonurgent or who have minor illnesses are likely to be dispositioned routinely. Patients discharged AMA are more likely to return to the ED with the same complaint than patients who are routinely discharged.
Right Directions, Wrong Maps
Authors: Smith Michael J.
Published: October 2008

Research extols the benefits of parent involvement in college choice, but low-SES African American parents are unable to match efforts of wealthier parents. This qualitative study found that in their communities the high school diploma was the normative credential for upward mobility. To this end, parents used narratives of struggle to motivate their children while utilizing maps that charted the course to high school completion. Findings suggest that in these families a high level of involvement towards high school completion exists, but that to shift expectations from high school to college completion requires unified and coordinated efforts from the Academy to pull parents into the college pipeline as early as middle school. The Academy must assume parents support their child's education and work with them to aggressively deliver critical college knowledge in the form of co-constructed maps that chart the course to college completion.
Black Canadians' Coping Responses to Racial Discrimination
Authors: Joseph Justine , Kuo Ben C. H.
Published: October 2008

On the basis of a cultural coping framework, the present study examined coping responses to racial discrimination among 190 Black Canadians. The study assessed the respondents' coping with both general (i.e., problem- and emotion-focused coping) and Africultural coping strategies (i.e., spiritual-centered, collective, and ritual-centered coping) across three different racial discrimination vignettes (i.e., interpersonal, institutional, and cultural discrimination). Furthermore, three individual and cultural difference variables, African self-consciousness, social desirability, and past race-related stress, were controlled in the analyses. As predicted, the results of the profile analysis and multivariate analyses showed that both general and Africultural coping were used by the participants in responding to all three types of discrimination. Additionally, differential coping patterns were found depending on the context of racial discrimination. Overall, the study suggests that Black Canadians are exposed to multiple race-related stressors that require them to adopt a flexible repertoire of general and culture-specific coping strategies.
The pharmacokinetics of standard antidepressants with aripiprazole as adjunctive therapy: studies in healthy subjects and in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Boulton DW , Balch AH , Royzman K. , Patel CG , Berman RM , Mallikaarjun S. , Reeves RA
Published: October 2008

Possible effects of the atypical antipsychotic aripiprazole on the pharmacokinetics of standard antidepressant therapies (ADTs) were assessed in two open-label, non-randomised studies in healthy subjects (Studies 1 and 2) and two placebo-controlled studies in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) (Studies 3 and 4). Healthy subjects received venlafaxine 75 mg/day (Study 1; N = 38) or escitalopram 10 mg/ day (Study 2; N = 25) with the addition of aripiprazole 10—20 mg/day (10 mg/day fixed dose in Study 2) for 14 days. Patients with MDD (N = 498; Studies 3 and 4) received escitalopram (10—20 mg/day), fluoxetine (20—40 mg/day), paroxetine controlled-release (37.5—50 mg/day), sertraline (100—150 mg/day) or venlafaxine extended-release (150—225 mg/day) for 8 weeks plus placebo. Incomplete responders were randomised (1:1) to placebo or adjunctive aripiprazole 2—20 mg/day. Blood samples were collected for pharmacokinetic analysis of ADTs. Plasma concentration—time data from Studies 3 and 4 were combined for statistical analysis. In healthy subjects, point estimates [90% CI] for the ratios of geometric means of Cmax(venlafaxine 1.148 [1.083—1.217]; escitalopram 1.04 [0.99—1.09]) and AUCTAU(venlafaxine 1.183 [1.130—1.238]; escitalopram 1.07 [1.04—1.11]) indicated no meaningful increase in ADT exposure in the presence of aripiprazole. In patients, point estimates for mean plasma concentration ratios indicated no substantial effect of aripiprazole on any ADT escitalopram 0.970 [0.911—1.033], fluoxetine 1.177 [1.049—1.321], paroxetine 0.730 [0.598—0.892], sertraline 0.958 [0.887—1.035] or venlafaxine 0.966 [0.887—1.051]. Aripiprazole had no meaningful effects on the pharmacokinetics of standard ADTs in either healthy subjects or patients with MDD.