bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of surface T11 molecules induced by monoclonal antibodies: analysis of the functional relationship between antigen‐dependent and antigen‐independent pathways of human T cell activation
Authors: Moretta Alessandro , Olive Daniel , Poggi Alessandro , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Mawas Claude , Moretta Lorenzo
Published: February 2007

Previous data indicated that T lymphocyte activation can be achieved by using a combination of anti‐T11 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) directed to the “T112” and the “T113” epitopes, respectively. Unlike the T cell activation induced by antibodies directed to the T3‐T cell receptor (Ti) complex or to T44 molecules, the anti‐T11 mAb‐induced cell activation was not accompanied by surface modulation of the T11 antigen. In the present study we show that appropriate stimulatory combinations of anti‐T11 mAb are able to induce T11 antigen modulation in a variety of T cells including polyclonal peripheral blood populations, normal as well as leukemic (JA3) T cell clones. The first anti‐T11 mAb combination leading to both cell activation and T11 antigen modulation was given by a mAb directed to the T112 epitope and by another mAb recognizing an epitope belonging to the T111 group. The second combination was given by two mAb directed against two different determinants of the T111group. The ability to induce T11 antigen modulation allowed a more precise analysis of the pathway of T cell activation initiated by T11 molecules and its physical and functional relationship with the other known pathways of T cell activation. T cells following T11 antigen modulation failed to respond to subsequent stimulation with anti‐T11 mAb. The refractory period lasted for 48–72 h and the restoration of the responsiveness to anti‐T11 mAb coincided with the re‐expression of T11 molecules at the cell surface. Modulation of T11 antigen did not affect the surface expression of T3, Ti or T44 molecules, in addition, “modulated” cells maintained their ability to respond to mAb directed against T3, Ti or T44 molecules. On the contrary, antibody‐induced modulation of the T3‐Ti receptor complex abrogated both T11‐ and T44‐dependent T cell activation. Finally, antibody‐induced modulation of T44 antigen did not inhibit either the T11‐ or the T3‐Ti‐dependent pathway of T cell activation. These data indicate that down‐regulation of the pathway of T cell activation initiated by T11 molecules can be induced not only by modulation of the antigen receptor complex but also by appropriate mAb to T11 molecules and, presumably, by the natural ligand binding to T11 molecules.
Identity between human interferon‐γ and “macrophage‐activating factor” produced by human T lymphocytes
Authors: Talmadge Kenneth W. , Gallati Harald , Sinigaglia Francesco , Walz Alfred , Garotta Gianni
Published: February 2007

Human peripheral blood monocytes purified by counterflow elutriation were activated in vitro by human natural or recombinant interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) as shown by enhanced killing of Listeria monocytogenes and increased production of H2O2 in response to phorbol myristate acetate. Half‐maximal stimulation for macrophage activation (MAF) was observed with 10–20 antiviral U/ml of purified recombinant IFN‐γ. These MAF activities were found to correlate with the antiviral activity dependent on IFN‐γ under several experimental conditions. Both activities were recovered together from supernatants of concanavalin A‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and in the media of a large number of T cell clones of different specificities. The parallelism between the two activities was also observed upon fractionation of culture media from producing cells and upon treatment of such preparations with low pH and high temperature. Finally, three antibodies with different specificities were found to abrogate the MAF and antiviral activities from lymphocyte culture supernatant. These results indicate that MAF released by stimulated lymphocytes is identical to IFN‐γ.
Function of the LFA‐1 and T4 molecules in the direct activation of resting human B lymphocytes by T lymphocytes
Authors: Tedder Thomas F. , Schmidt Reinhold E. , Rudd Christopher E. , Kornacki Mary M. , Ritz Jerome , Schlossman Stuart F.
Published: February 2007

Activated T lymphocytes can provide all of the signals necessary to induce the proliferation of resting B lymphocytes. The activation signal is presumably initiated through direct T‐B lymphocyte contact. The role of the leukocyte function antigen‐1 (LFA‐1) and T4 molecules in the activation of purified, small B lymphocytes by mitomycin C‐treated T lymphocytes was examined by using monoclonal antibodies that react with and inhibit the function of these molecules. Anti‐LFA‐1 antibody binding significantly inhibited T‐B lymphocyte interactions that result in B lymphocyte proliferation. In contrast, the presence of anti‐T4 antibodies at concentrations as high as 100 μg/ml did not inhibit this interaction. These results indicate that the B lymphocyte activation signal may not be mediated through the interaction of T4 molecules with major histocompatibility complex class II antigens of the B lymphocyte but is a cell‐cell contact‐dependent event that is facilitated by LFA‐1 molecules.
Tumor‐promoting phorbol esters suppress receptor‐stimulated inositol phospholipid degradation and Ca2+ mobilization in mouse lymphocytes
Authors: Bijsterbosch Martin K. , Klaus Gerry G. B.
Published: February 2007

Anti‐immunoglobulin antibodies (anti‐Ig) provoke the rapid breakdown of phos‐phatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2), elevation of cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]i) and activation of protein kinase C (PKC) in B lymphocytes. Tumor‐promoting phorbol esters, like phorbol myristate acetate, also activate PKC, but inhibit anti‐Ig‐induced B cell proliferation. To investigate the basis of the latter effect, we studied the influence of phorbol esters on PIP2 degradation and [Ca2+]i in murine B cells. The results show that PKC‐activating phorbol esters cause marked inhibition of anti‐Ig‐stimulated PIP2 breakdown and Ca2+ mobilization. In addition, these agents inhibit concanavalin A‐provoked Ca2+ influx, lower resting cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels and reduce ionophore‐induced Ca2+ influx in B cells. Apparently, PKC stimulation causes feedback inhibition of receptor signalling, not only by suppressing PIP2 degradation, but also by exerting additional complex effects on the control of [Ca2+]i in B cells. It is, however, not clear how these findings relate to the anti‐proliferative effects of phorbol esters on B cells.
Micro‐ and Nano‐ Magnetic Particles for Applications in Biosensing
Authors: Hsing I‐Ming , Xu Ying , Zhao Wenting
Published: February 2007

This article reviews the development of electrochemical biosensors, incorporating magnetic particles, for detecting biomolecules (nucleic acids and proteins) and cells. Magnetic particles (MPs) of micro‐ and nanoscale, mimicking the size of molecules in nature, possess interesting characteristics that facilitate the purification and detection of biomolecules in a wide range of samples. In particular, the high surface area and the paramagnetic or superparamagnetic properties of these tiny particles provide an attractive technology platform for the design of electrochemical biosensors. Examples of electrochemistry‐based approaches to achieve the separation and detection of bioentities utilizing MPs are described. Emphasis is placed on the strategies to incorporate the electrochemical labels to the MPs and the methods to achieve the dual function of electrochemical detection and magnetic separation. The protocols to make MPs as labels in biological sensors are also discussed.
Full‐scale experimental verification of resetable semi‐active stiffness dampers
Authors: Yang J. N. , Bobrow J. , Jabbari F. , Leavitt J. , Cheng C. P. , Lin P. Y.
Published: February 2007

Because of many advantages over other control systems, semi‐active control devices have received considerable attention for applications to civil infrastructures. A variety of different semi‐active control devices have been studied for applications to buildings and bridges subject to strong winds and earthquakes. Recently, a new semi‐active control device, referred to as the resetable semi‐active stiffness damper (RSASD), has been proposed and studied at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). It has been demonstrated by simulation results that such a RSASD is quite effective in protecting civil engineering structures against earthquakes, including detrimental near‐field earthquakes. In this paper, full‐scale hardware for RSASD is designed and manufactured using pressurized gas. Experimental tests on full‐scale RSASDs have been conducted to verify the hysteretic behaviours (energy dissipation characteristics) and the relation between the damper stiffness and the gas pressure. The correlation between the experimental results of the hysteresis loops of RASADs and that of the theoretical ones has been assessed qualitatively. Experimental results further show the linear relation between the gas pressure and the stiffness of the RSASD as theoretically predicted. Finally, shake table tests have also been conducted using an almost full‐scale 3‐storey steel frame model equipped with full‐scale RSASDs at the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering (NCREE), Taipei, Taiwan, and the results are presented. Experimental results demonstrate the performance of RSASDs in reducing the responses of the large‐scale building model subject to several near‐field earthquakes. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The evaluator's role in policy development
Authors: Grob George F.
Published: February 2007

This chapter provides reflection on and advice about the practice of evaluation in government policymaking settings, especially at the federal and state levels.
Expected value of sample information for Weibull survival data
Authors: Brennan Alan , Kharroubi Samer A.
Published: February 2007

Expected value of sample information (EVSI) involves simulating data collection, Bayesian updating, and re‐examining decisions. Bayesian updating in Weibull models typically requires Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC).

We examine five methods for calculating posterior expected net benefits: two heuristic methods (data lumping and pseudo‐normal); two Bayesian approximation methods (Tierney & Kadane, Brennan & Kharroubi); and the gold standard MCMC. A case study computes EVSI for 25 study options. We compare accuracy, computation time and trade‐offs of EVSI versus study costs.

Brennan & Kharroubi (B&K) approximates expected net benefits to within ±1% of MCMC. Other methods, data lumping (+54%), pseudo‐normal (−5%) and Tierney & Kadane (+11%) are less accurate. B&K also produces the most accurate EVSI approximation. Pseudo‐normal is also reasonably accurate, whilst Tierney & Kadane consistently underestimates and data lumping exhibits large variance. B&K computation is 12 times faster than the MCMC method in our case study. Though not always faster, B&K provides most computational efficiency when net benefits require appreciable computation time and when many MCMC samples are needed.

The methods enable EVSI computation for economic models with Weibull survival parameters. The approach can generalize to complex multi‐state models and to survival analyses using other smooth parametric distributions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lebectin, a Macrovipera lebetina venom‐derived C‐type lectin, inhibits angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Pilorget Anthony , Conesa Magali , Sarray Sameh , Michaud‐Levesque Jonathan , Daoud Salma , Kim Kwang Sik , Demeule Michel , Marvaldi Jacques , El Ayeb Mohamed , Marrakchi Naziha , Béliveau Richard , Luis José
Published: February 2007

Integrins play an essential role in endothelial cell motility processes during angiogenesis and thus present interesting targets for the development of new anti‐angiogenic agents. Snake venoms naturally contain a variety of proteins that can affect integrin–ligand interactions. Recently, the C‐type lectin proteins (CLPs) have been characterized as efficient modulators of integrin functions. In this study, we investigated the anti‐angiogenic activity of lebectin, a newly discovered CLP from Macrovipera lebetina venom. Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC), used as an in vitro model, express αvβ3, αvβ5, and α5β1 integrins, as well as the α2, α3, α6, and β4 subunits. Our data show that lebectin acts as a very potent inhibitor (IC50 ≈ 0.5 nM) of HBMEC adhesion and migration on fibronectin by blocking the adhesive functions of both the α5β1 and αV integrins. In addition, lebectin strongly inhibits both HBMEC in vitro tubulogenesis on Matrigel™ (IC50 = 0.4 nM) and proliferation. Finally, using both a chicken CAM assay and a Matrigel™ Plug assay in nude mice, our results show that lebectin displays potent anti‐angiogenic activity in vivo. Lebectin thus represents a new C‐type lectin with anti‐angiogenic properties with great potential for the treatment of angiogenesis‐related diseases. J. Cell. Physiol. 211: 307–315, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The non‐genomic effects on Na+/H+‐exchange 1 by progesterone and 20α‐hydroxyprogesterone in human T cells
Authors: Chien Eileen Jea , Liao Ching‐Fong , Chang Ching‐Pang , Pu Hsiao‐Fung , Lu Li‐Ming , Shie Mei‐Chi , Hsieh Dennis J.‐Y. , Hsu Ming‐Ta
Published: February 2007

Progesterone is an endogenous immunomodulator and can suppress T‐cell activation during pregnancy. We have previously shown that the non‐genomic effects of progesterone, especially acidification, are exerted via plasma membrane sites and suppress cellular genomic responses to mitogens. This study aimed to show that acidification is due to a non‐genomic inhibition of Na+/H+‐exchange 1 (NHE1) by progesterone and correlate this with immunosuppressive phytohemagglutinin (PHA)‐induced T‐cell proliferation. The presence of amiloride‐sensitive NHE 1 was identified in T cells. The activity of NHE1 was inhibited by progesterone but not by 20α‐hydroxyprogesterone (20α‐OHP). Furthermore, 20α‐OHP was able to compete with progesterone and release the inhibitory effect on the NHE1. The inhibition of NHE1 activity by progesterone‐BSA demonstrated non‐genomic action via plasma membrane sites. Finally, co‐stimulation with PHA and progesterone or amiloride, (5‐(N, N‐dimethyl)‐amiloride, DMA), inhibited PHA‐induced T‐cell proliferation, but this inhibition did not occur with 20α‐OHP and PHA co‐stimulation. However, when DMA was applied 72 h after PHA stimulation, it was able to suppress PHA‐induced T‐cell proliferation. This is the first study to show that progesterone causes a rapid non‐genomic inhibition of plasma membrane NHE1 activity in T cells within minutes which is released by 20α‐OHP. The inhibition of NHE1 leads to immunosuppressive T‐cell proliferation and suggests that progesterone might exert a major rapid non‐genomic suppressive effect on NHE1 activity at the maternal–fetal interface in vivo and that 20α‐OHP may possibly be able to quickly release the suppression when T cells circulated away from the interface. J. Cell. Physiol. 211: 544–550, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Levels of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B determine susceptibility to apoptosis in serum‐deprived hepatocytes
Authors: González‐Rodriguez Águeda , Escribano Óscar , Alba Javier , Rondinone Cristina M. , Benito Manuel , Valverde Ángela M.
Published: February 2007

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is a negative regulator of tyrosine kinase growth factor signaling. To assess the importance of PTP1B in the balance between death and survival in the liver, we have developed immortalized neonatal hepatocyte cell lines lacking (PTP1B−/−) or overexpressing (PTP1B+/+PTP1B) PTP1B. Early activation of caspase‐3 occurred in PTP1B+/+PTP1B hepatocytes but was nearly abolished in PTP1B−/− cells. At the molecular level, PTP1B overexpression/deficiency altered the balance of pro‐(Bim) and anti‐(Bcl‐xL) apoptotic members of the Bcl‐2 family upon serum withdrawal. Likewise, cytosolic cytochrome C increased rapidly in PTP1B+/+PTP1B hepatocytes whereas it was retained in the mitochondria of PTP1B−/− cells. DNA fragmentation and the increase of apoptotic cells induced by serum withdrawal in wild‐type (PTP1B+/+) hepatocytes were absent in PTP1B−/− cells. Conversely, overexpression of PTP1B accelerated DNA laddering and increased the number of apoptotic cells. In serum‐deprived PTP1B+/+PTP1B hepatocytes, a rapid entry of Foxo1 into the nucleus and an earlier activation of caspase‐8 was observed. However, both events were suppressed in PTP1B−/− hepatocytes. Moreover, PTP1B deficiency conferred resistance to apoptosis induced by activation of Fas and constitutively active Foxo1. Rescue of PTP 1B in deficient hepatocytes recovered the phenotype of wild‐type cells whereas reduction of PTP1B by siRNA suppressed apoptosis. Our results reveal a unique role for PTP1B as a mediator of the apoptotic pathways triggered by trophic factors withdrawal in hepatocytes. This novel mechanism may represent an important target in the design of therapeutic strategies for human liver regeneration after pathological damage as well as for treatment of hepatocarcinomas. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 76–88, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Convergent trafficking pattern of leptin after endocytosis mediated by ObRa–ObRd
Authors: Tu Hong , Pan Weihong , Feucht Laura , Kastin Abba J.
Published: February 2007

The cellular effects of leptin are dependent on the receptor subtypes that mediate the signaling and fate of endocytosed leptin inside the cells. In this study, we examined the differences in receptor expression, endocytosis, intracellular degradation, and exocytosis of a trace amount of leptin in cells overexpressing ObRb and short forms of the leptin receptor. The relative contribution of proteasomes and lysosomes in the intracellular fate of leptin was also determined. There were three unusual findings: (1) all receptor subtypes could mediate the binding and endocytosis of leptin, although ObRb was expressed at a lower level than ObRa, ObRc, and ObRd after transient transfection. This indicates that ObRb can be a transporting receptor. (2) Once internalized, the intracellular degradation pattern and exocytosis of leptin were independent of the receptor subtype. (3) Endocytosed leptin could remain intact for at least 1 h. This stability was further enhanced by inhibition of lysosomal activity. Thus, the intracellular pool of intact leptin may allow prolonged biological functions for this adipokine. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 215–222, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of different types of fluid shear stress on endothelial cell proliferation and survival
Authors: Kadohama Takayuki , Nishimura Kengo , Hoshino Yuji , Sasajima Tadahiro , Sumpio Bauer E.
Published: February 2007

We attempted to clarify the effect of different types of shear stress on endothelial cell (EC) proliferation and survival. Bovine aortic ECs were subjected to either steady laminar, 1 Hz pulsatile, or 1 Hz to and fro shear at 14 dyne/cm2. % of BrdU positive EC was 14.3 ± 1.6% in steady, 21.5 ± 3.2% in pulsatile, and 11.4 ± 2.4% in to and fro after 4 h, respectively (P < 0.05). Pulsatile shear compared with static control. Rapamycin reduced BrdU incorporation in all shear regimens (P < 0.001). However, it was still higher in EC exposed to pulsatile shear than the other regimens (P < 0.005). PD98059 completely abolished the increased BrdU incorporation in all shear regimens, including pulsatile shear. Pulsatile shear had significantly elevated ERK1/2 phosphorylation at 5 min compared with steady (P < 0.05) and to and fro shear (P < 0.01) while there was no significant difference in pp70S6k phosphorylation between any shear regimen. The ratio of apoptotic cells in serum deprived EC in the presence of steady laminar, pulsatile and to and fro shear for 4 h were 2.7 ± 0.78%, 2.7 ± 0.42%, and 2.9 ± 0.62%, respectively while after the addition of serum for 4 h, it was 4.3 ± 0.73%. All shear regimens phosphorylated AKT in a time‐dependent manner with no significant difference between regimens. Our results demonstrate that different types of shear stress regimens have different effects on EC and may account for the variable response of EC to hemodynamics in the circulation. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 244–251, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thrombin‐mediated hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration: Cooperative action via proteinase‐activated receptors 1 and 4
Authors: Kaufmann Roland , Rahn Stephanie , Pollrich Kristin , Hertel Julia , Dittmar Yves , Hommann Merten , Henklein Peter , Biskup Christoph , Westermann Martin , Hollenberg Morley D. , Settmacher Utz
Published: February 2007

Proteinase‐activated receptor‐1 (PAR1), a thrombin receptor and the prototype of a newly discovered G‐protein‐coupled receptor subfamily, plays an important role in tumor development and progression. In this study, we documented the expression of the thrombin receptors PAR1, PAR3, and PAR4in permanent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines and primary HCC cell cultures. Stimulation of HCC cells with thrombin and the PAR1‐selective activating peptide, TFLLRN‐NH2, increased transmembrane migration across a collagen barrier. This effect was blocked by the PAR1antagonist SCH 79797, confirming that the PAR1thrombin receptor subtype is involved in regulating hepatoma cell migration. In addition, the PAR4‐selective agonist, AYPGKF‐NH2, also stimulated HCC cell migration whilst the PAR4antagonist, trans‐cinnamoyl‐YPGKF‐NH2, attenuated the effect of thrombin on HCC cell migration. PAR1‐ and PAR4‐triggered HCC cell migration was blocked by inhibiting a number of key mediators of signal transduction, including G proteins of the Gi/Gofamily, matrix metalloproteinases, ERK/MAPKinase, cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase, Src tyrosine kinase, and the EGF receptor kinase. Our data point to a cooperative PAR1/PAR4signaling network that contributes to thrombin‐mediated tumor cell migration. We suggest that a combined inhibition of coagulation cascade serine proteinases, the two PARs and their complex signaling pathways may provide a new strategy for treating hepatocellular carcinoma. J. Cell. Physiol. 211: 699–707, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Upregulation of the glutamine transporter through transactivation mediated by camp/protein kinase a signals toward exacerbation of vulnerability to oxidative stress in rat neocortical astrocytes
Authors: Ogura Masato , Taniura Hideo , Nakamichi Noritaka , Yoneda Yukio
Published: February 2007

In the present study, we have evaluated the possible functionality in astrocytes of the glutamine (Gln) transporter (GlnT) known to predominate in neurons for the neurotransmitter pool of glutamate. Sustained exposure to the adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin for 24 h led to a significant increase in mRNA expression of GlnT among different membrane transporters capable of transporting Gln, with an increase in [3H]Gln accumulation sensitive to a system A transporter inhibitor, in cultured rat neocortical astrocytes, but not neurons. Forskolin drastically stimulated GlnT promoter activity in a manner sensitive to a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor in rat astrocytic C6 glioma cells, while deletion mutation analysis revealed that the stimulation was mediated by a cAMP responsive element (CRE)/activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) like site located on GlnT gene promoter. Forskolin drastically stimulated the promoter activity in a fashion sensitive to a PKA inhibitor in C6 glioma cells transfected with a CRE or AP‐1 reporter plasmid, in association with the phosphorylation of CRE binding protein on serine133. Transient overexpression of GlnT significantly exacerbated the cytotoxicity of hydrogen peroxide in cultured astrocytes. These results suggest that GlnT expression is upregulated by cAMP/PKA signals for subsequent exacerbation of the vulnerability to oxidative stress in astrocytes. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 375–385, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Echocardiographic study of the effects of acute left atrial hypertension on left atrial size
Authors: Chandraratna P. A. N. , Nanda N. C. , Shah P. M. , Hodges M. , Gramiak R.
Published: February 2007

This study was designed to investigate the effects of acute left atrial hypertension on left atrial size. Twenty‐four patients with acute myocardial infarction were studied. The estimated mean left atrial pressure (LAm) was correlated with left atrial (LA) size obtained by echocardiography. The LAm was elevated (>12 mmHg) in 15 patients (Group I). The LA size was within normal limits in all but two patients who had minor increases. The LAm was normal in nine patients (Group II). The LA size was normal in each case. The LA size remained unchanged in those patients who had a stable LAm. We conclude that acute increases in LAm are not usually associated with LA enlargement beyond the upper limit of the normal range.
The ultrasonic characteristics of the renal pelvicalyceal echo complex
Authors: Sanders Roger C. , Conrad Melvyn R.
Published: February 2007

The pelvicalyceal echo complex has a characteristic appearance as an echo‐filled cylinder in which minimal sonolucency may normally be seen. Alteration in the pelvicalyceal echo complex is a helpful guide in the diagnosis of a variety of pathological processes involving the kidneys. Reliable diagnosis of moderate and marked hydronephrosis may be made by the appearance of uniformly sized, sonolucent collections in the pelvicalyceal echo complex which show communication with the renal pelvis. An adjacent simple renal cyst produces a sharply defined crescent shaped deformity of the pelvicalyceal echo complex, and scalloping is seen with multiple impinging renal cysts. Gross deformity of the central echo complex is seen with polycystic kidney disease, as well as in neoplasia. Edema and infiltrating hypernephroma may result in diminution of the pelvicalyceal echo complex. Amputation or a “V”‐shaped splitting of the pelvicalyceal echo complex may be seen with neoplasia.
In search of the elusive benign cystic ovarian teratoma: Application of the ultrasound “tip of the iceberg” sign
Authors: Guttman Paul H.
Published: February 2007

The benign cystic ovarian teratoma (dermoid) has distinctive ultrasonic features that differentiate it from other adnexal masses. The most frequent sign is the presence of highly reflective irregular solid components within a fluid‐conentaining adnexal mass. In vitro scans of surgical specimens have shown that the strongly reflective echo pattern is caused by the hair and sebum within the dermoid. Calcium is often sparse or absent. Acoustic shadowing from the hair may totally obscure the back wall of a large, clinically evident mass; hence the term “tip of the iceberg” sign. Recognition of this sign reduces the possibility of a false negative interpretation and confusion with a “bowel gas pattern.”
Determination of renal volume by ultrasound scanning
Authors: Rasmussen Sten Norby , Haase Lene , Kjeldsen Hanne , Hancke Soren
Published: February 2007

In patients with renal hypertension, determination of renal volume may be valuable for evaluating possible compensatory hypertrophy, for correlating renal size to renal function, and for evaluating the transplanted kidney in relation to rejection and its response to therapy. We performed parallel transverse ultrasonic scans through each kidney and computed volume based on the cross‐sectional areas outlined on the scans. In 16 autopsy studies a highly significant correlation between calculated and true values were obtained, rs = 0.847, p < 0.001. The 5th and 95th percentiles of the median divergence were −21 and 27 ml respectively. In 30 healthy subjects, double determinations showed 5th and 95th percentiles of the median interobserver variation of −7 and 3 ml respectively. There was no demonstrable difference between volumes of right and left kidneys, and no difference in relation to sex. Total renal volume was most accurate when correlated with the body weight, rs = 0.698, p < 0.001. Normal values of total renal volume per kilogram of body weight were 4.3 to 8.0 ml/kg. In normal subjects, the smallest kidney's volume should not be less than 37% of the total renal volume.
Gray scale sonographic diagnosis: Multiple congenital splenic cysts
Authors: Dembner Alan G. , Taylor Kenneth J. W.
Published: February 2007

The diagnosis of benign splenic cysts was made preoperatively by gray scale ultrasound in a 29 year old female presenting with a left upper quadrant mass.
Rare occurrence of a holoacardious acephalic monster: Sonographic and pathologic findings
Authors: Lehr Cynthia , Dire John
Published: February 2007

Sonography is gaining increasing importance in the diagnosis of anomalies in utero. Findings such as anencephaly, hydrocephaly, sacrococcygeal teratoma, fetal ascites, and obstructive uropathy have been described. Detection of anomalies such as these are important in the management of the pregnancy and aid in the preparation for the postnatal care or treatment of the fetus. While this article deals with the dramatic findings of a grossly anomalous fetus of a twin pregnancy, the ultimate value of ultrasound is its potential for detecting correctable malformations in a safe, noninvasive, and harmless manner.
Sonographic evaluation of the nonfunctioning kidney
Authors: Behan Michael , Wixson David , Kazam Elias
Published: February 2007

The results of B‐mode ultrasound examinations in 113 consecutive patients with unilateral renal nonfunction or severe azotemia were reviewed. The causes of nonfunction included the following: hydronephrosis; renal parenchymal disease; renal agenesis; atrophy or dysplasia; multicystic, medullary cystic, and polycystic kidneys; renal arterial or venous occlusive disease; extensively infiltrating neoplasm. The sonographic findings were consistent with the final diagnosis in 92 percent of the cases. A coronal view of the kidney for diagnosing hydronephrosis is described. This view demonstrates the dilated calyces in continuity with the renal pelvis and, when combined with transverse views, improves the reliability of the sonographic diagnosis of hydronephrosis. In cases where the renal landmarks appear totally normal, obstruction can be excluded as a cause of nonfunction, and retrograde pyelography may be avoided. The sonographic manifestations of other parenchymal abnormalities associated with nonfunction, such as cystic renal disease, glomerulonephritis, and renal transplant rejection, are also discussed.
Sonographic differentiation between the umbilical portion of the left portal vein and intrahepatic bile ducts
Authors: Bandai Yasutsugu , Makuuchi Masatoshi , Watanabe Goro , Ito Toru , Sugiura Mitsuo , Wada Tatsuo
Published: February 2007

The method of differentiating between the portal vein and the bile ducts by means of their intrahepatic portions was studied. The left branch of the portal vein courses horizontally as the transverse portion, then veers anteriorly at an acute angle to make the umbilical portion. This characteristic form was demonstrated in all normal controls and 95% of the jaundiced patients studied. The left hepatic duct does not curve anteriorly at an acute angle, but branches off to the lateral segment running superior to the umbilical portion. This anatomic relationship and characteristic form of the umbilical portion were useful in differentiating the portal vein and the bile ducts.
Echographic characteristics of malignant lymph nodes
Authors: Hillman Bruce J. , Haber Kai
Published: February 2007

We retrospectively reviewed the sonograms of 42 sequential patients for whom there was sonographic evidence of malignant lymphadenopathy. Twenty‐three patients were known to have lymphoma, whereas 19 patients had lymph nodes involved with metastases. Each case was categorized according to the sonographic “texture” of the masses and the extent of sound transmission. Sonolucent masses were observed in 83% of the lymphoma cases and in 53% of patients with soft‐tissue tumors. Nonetheless, a mixture of patterns was observed in nearly one‐third of the cases. In 5 lymphoma patients there were enlarged lymph nodes that had all of the echographic qualities of simple cysts. Aside from this pattern, no correlation could be made between sonographic pattern and histologic diagnosis.
Hypervascularity of the uterine wall during pregnancy: Incidence, sonographic appearance, and obstetric implications
Authors: Hadlock Frank P. , Deter Russell L. , Carpenter Robert , Park Seung K. , Athey Patricia A.
Published: February 2007

The authors report the incidence (20%) of hypervascularity of the uterine wall (decidual reaction) (1) in 106 pregnant women studied prospectively by ultrasound. An unusual case, which caused problems in diagnosis and management, is reported in detail. The relation between the location and extent of this finding and the location of the placenta is discussed. The authors think that this finding represents dilation of myometrial veins of uncertain etiology, and they conclude that the major implications are that it must be differentiated from pathologic entities that are similar sonographically (1), and that if anterior, it may cause excessive bleeding during invasive procedures.
Ultrasonic appearance of the filled and contracted normal gallbladder
Authors: Marchal G. , Van de Voorde P. , Van Dooren W. , Ponette E. , Baert A.
Published: February 2007

The echographic appearance of the wall of normal well‐filled and contracted gallbladders was studied prospectively in 25 persons. Using gray‐scale equipment, the wall of the filled gallbladder appeared as a single reflecting structure, whereas during contraction, three different components could be distinguished. The exact recognition of this particular pattern is important in the differential diagnosis of real wall thickening and incomplete contraction.
Real‐time identification of blood flow in the placenta and umbilical cord
Authors: Morin François , Winsberg Fred
Published: February 2007

Blood flow in the umbilical cord and placenta has been observed with real‐time sonography. In some of the larger “cystic” spaces within the placenta a pattern of pulsatile, whorling, and accelerating flow is seen, suggesting an arteriovenous connection.
Renal transitional cell carcinoma: Sonographic and pathologic correlation
Authors: Subramanyam Ball R. , Raghavendra B. Nagesh , Madamba Mariano R.
Published: February 2007

Sonography was utilized to assess six patients with renal transitional cell carcinoma and was correlated with gross pathology in five cases. The neoplasms were seen as discrete, solid masses causing separation of the central renal sinus echoes. The echogenicity of the tumors and the renal parenchyma was similar, but the neoplasms were separated from the renal parenchyma by a linear echogenic zone of renal sinus fat. Pelvicaliceal blood clots, when markedly echogenic, could be differentiated from transitional cell carcinomas. Sonography contributed most in evaluating unilateral nonvisualized kidney or in the presence of nonfilling of the affected pelvicalices on excretory urography.
Sonographic identification of collecting system duplications
Authors: Schaffer Richard M. , Shih Yin H. , Becker Joshua A.
Published: February 2007

Sonography can replace urography in the search for a duplication anomaly of the collecting system. As a screening procedure, sonography is more cost effective and does not require ionizing radiation or an intravascular injection.
Multiple aortic root echoes: Clinical, radiographic, and angiographic correlations
Authors: Butman Samuel , Schatz Robert E. , Chandraratna Fremindra , Wong Raymond
Published: February 2007

Multiple diastolic echoes in the aortic root on M‐mode echocardiography may represent fibrosis or calcification of the aortic wall, aortic leaflets, or proximal portions of the coronary arteries. In this study, 83 patients with multiple diastolic echoes were evaluated by cardiac fluoroscopy and the incidence of valvular, coronary, and aortic wall calcification was determined. In patients with multiple diastolic echoes who have no evidence of significant aortic stenosis (aortic valve opening 5 1.0 cm) or aortic insufficiency (fine fluttering of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve), the presence of multiple diastolic echoes was highly associated with significant coronary artery calcification (64%) with over two‐thirds having multivessel involvement. Patients referred for echocardiography who are free of significant aortic stenosis or aortic insufficiency by echocardiographic criteria who are found to have multiple diastolic echoes in the aortic root should be evaluated further for the possible presence of significant multivessel coronary artery disease. Indexing Word: Aortic root echoes.
Evaluation of the dating of gestation via the growth adjusted sonographic age method
Authors: Simon Nicolas V. , Siegle John C. , Levisky John S. , Shearer David M.
Published: February 2007

We compared the actual delivery dates of 248 normal pregnant women to the estimated dates of confinement (EDC) calculated from one biparietal diameter measurement (BPD) between 18 and 26 weeks of gestation and to the EDCs corrected by the growth adjusted sonographic age (GASA) method. The dating of gestation by those two ultrasound methods also was compared to the calculation of the gestational age from the last menstrual period in a subgroup of 61 women with highly reliable clinical data. The GASA method had no advantage over the dating of gestation using one single BPD measurement obtained before 26 weeks, nor over the dating of gestation using reliable menstrual data. Indexing Words: Biparietal diameter · Dating of gestation · Fetal growth.
Sonographic and CT appearance of krukenberg tumors
Authors: Athey Patricia A. , Butters Harry E.
Published: February 2007

The sonographic findings in two cases of Krukenberg tumor of the ovary secondary to carcinoma of the colon are presented. Three other single case reports of sonography in this entity have been recorded in the literature. Clinical data and sonographic findings in these five cases are analyzed. Pathologically and sonographically these tumors, when of moderate to large size, appear as solid masses containing variable amounts of fluid and can mimic the appearance of cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary. The CT findings in one case are included and correlate well with the sonographic appearance. Indexing Words: Ovary, metastasis · Ovary, Krukenberg tumor · Krukenberg tumor, ultrasound.
Sonography of Abdominal Posttransplant Lymphoma
Authors: Frick Mathis P. , Salomonowitz Erich , Feinberg Samuel B.
Published: February 2007

Five patients developed abdominal lymphoma an average of 89 months after successful renal transplantation. Sonographically, the lymphomas presented as bulky intraperitoneal masses or focal deposits in the liver. These lesions exhibited good sound transmission and intrinsic pattern ranging from sparse, soft echoes to coarse trabeculations. Prompt diagnosis of this serious late complication of renal transplantation is crucial. Indexing Words: Posttransplant lymphoma Abdominal lymphoma · Renal transplantation · Sonography.
Mathematical Modeling of Fetal Growth: II. Head Cube (A), Abdominal Cube (B) and Their Ratio (A/B)
Authors: Rossavik Ivar K. , Deter Russell L.
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Growth of the fetal head and abdomen have been monitored by measurement of the head cube (A), the abdominal cube (B) and A/B, from 12 to 41 weeks menstrual age. Growth curves for these parameters have been determined using a specially developed growth curve model [P = c(t)k+S(t)]. R2 values of 98.0%, 96.6%, and 56.2% were obtained for A, B, and A/B, respectively. Similar results were obtained when this model was used with HC and AC data from a previous study. Variability analysis indicated a progressive increase in variability with menstrual age for both A and B while the variability of A/B decreased. The variability in the 12‐ to 17‐week interval was significantly greater for all three parameters and the A deviation distribution was asymmetric (shifted toward negative values) after 36 weeks. Variability data were used with the growth curve models to determine standard curves for A, B and A/B. Indexing Words: Fetal growth · Head cube · Abdominal cube · Growth equation.
Right ventricular volume determination in isolated human hearts
Authors: Erbel R. , Richter H. A. , Krebs W. , Schweizer P. , Massberg I. , Zotz R. , Meyer J. , Effert S.
Published: February 2007

For right ventricular volume determination a new method was developed that took into account right ventricular imaging by apical two‐dimensional echocardiography in the four‐ and two‐chamber views. Right ventricular volume was calculated by subtraction of the partial volume of the left ventricle and interventricular septum from total heart volume of the right and left ventricles including the interventricular septum. Accuracy of the subtraction method was evaluated in isolated human hearts by two‐dimensional echocardiography and radiography. Regression analysis indicated that for both the echocardiographic and radiologic procedures, the subtraction method gave the best correlation with the right ventricular filling volume. The correlation coefficients obtained using the echocardiographic procedure were 0.964, 0.848, and 0.851 for the subtraction method, pyramid method, and Simpson's rule method, respectively. For the radiographic procedure, these values were 0.946, 0.860, and 0.872. Percentage difference calculations indicated that the subtraction method systematically underestimated (−7.4%) the filling volume in the echocardiographic procedure, but this was not seen with the radiologic procedures. The random error associated with the subtraction method was only half (10.5%, 13.9%) of that seen with the other two methods in both the echocardiographic and radiological procedures. These results indicate that right ventricular volume determination by the subtraction method seems to be suitable for apical two‐dimensional echocardiography and is more accurate than the pyramid method and Simpson's rule method.
Ultrasonographic detection of the patellar plica in the knee
Authors: Derks Willem H. J. , de Hooge Pieter , van Linge Bert
Published: February 2007

In 39 knees of 38 patients, an ultrasonographic investigation of the patellofemoral space was performed to detect a plica synovialis. By arthroscopic control, we found a sensitivity for the ultrasonographic method of 92% and a specificity of 73%. The method, materials, and results are discussed in this paper.
Uncommon causes of scrotal and inguinal swelling in children: Sonographic appearance
Authors: Han Bokyung K.
Published: February 2007

Sonography has proven to be a useful diagnostic tool in the evaluation of scrotal abnormalities. Three uncommon, interesting abnormalities—epididymoochitis as the presenting manifestation of Hemophilus influenzae sepsis, torsion of undescended testis, and abdominoscrotal hydrocele—are presented. All had swelling of both the scrotum and the inguinal area. Sonography played a significant role in the evaluation and management of these patients.
Indications for routine cranial ultrasound scanning in the nursery
Authors: Sims Maureen E. , Halterman George , Jasani Naveen , Vachon Linda , Wu Paul Y. K.
Published: February 2007

Cranial ultrasonography provides important diagnostic information in neonates. The clinical indications for routine scanning in newborn infants, however, are not established. The purpose of this study is to determine the incidence of cranial pathology detectable by ultrasound in certain clinical states in the neonate. We reviewed the scans and clinical states of 1,031 neonates born between April 1981 and February 1985. We found term infants with dysmorphic features to have the highest incidence of neuropathology (46%), followed by term infants born with macrocephaly (33%), preterm infants (26%), term infants with seizures (26%), and term infants with 1‐ and 5‐min Apgar scores <7 (13%). We found a lower incidence (<5%) of abnormal CNS findings in the nonasphyxiated term infants with split sutures, cephalohematoma, abnormal neurologic examination, and idiopathic jitteriness. Based on our findings we have concluded that it is important to scan routinely all premature infants, term infants with dysmorphic features, macrocephaly, or seizure disorder, and infants with 1‐ and 5‐min Apgar scores <7; routine scanning of term infants with split sutures, cephalohematoma, abnormal neurological examination, or idiopathic jitteriness is not indicated.
Ultrasonography of mediastinal teratorma
Authors: Ikezoe Junpei , Morimoto Shizuo , Arisawa Jun , Kuriyama Keiko , Akira Masanori , Kozuka Takahiro , Nakahara Kazuya , Ohno Kiyoshi , Sone Shusuke , Higashihara Tokuro
Published: February 2007

We have studied real‐time sonograms of 11 surgically proven benign mediastinal teratomas. Eight cystic teratomas were sonographically visualized as various kinds of masses: four complex, two solid, and two cystic. The echo patterns of cystic teratomas were determined by the serous or nonserous nature of the cysts. In the presence of serous fluid, the tumor was visualized as a cystic mass. If, on the other hand, the cyst of the tumor was nonserous or was sebaceous, it appeared as a solid or complex tumor. The remaining three solid teratomas, which had some small cysts, appeared as complex tumors.
Computer analysis of echographic textures in hashimoto disease of the thyroid
Authors: Mailloux Guy , Bertrand Michel , Stampfler Robert , Ethier Serge
Published: February 2007

Ultrasound B‐scan images of the thyroid obtained from 10 patients with Hashimoto disease were digitized and processed by a computer method of image analysis that segments complex B‐scan images into regions of homogeneous texture. The method was first applied to B‐scan images of the normal thyroid and it consistently classified the normal tissue into a unique region. When applied to Hashimoto disease B‐scan images, the same method segmented the thyroid into two regions. Detailed analysis of these regions revealed that their gray‐level histograms were very different from that of the normal thyroid in eight cases. In two cases the histogram of one of the regions was similar to that of the previous eight cases, whereas the histogram and the tissue of the other region were similar to those of the normal tissue. This paper shows how these results can be interpreted according to the natural history of the Hashimoto disease.
Ultrasonic evaluation of pediatric superficial masses
Authors: Yamaguchi Muneyuki , Takeuchi Setsuo , Matsuo Sin‐Ichiro
Published: February 2007

Mechanical sector scanning using a balloon and electronic scanning using transrectal probes were applied in the diagnosis of pediatric superficial masses. In 135 cases of pediatric superficial masses definitely diagnosed by surgical findings and histopathologic examinations, a comparative investigation was performed between the surgical and histopathologic findings and ultrasonographic findings. Among these 135 cases, 117 of the masses were benign, and 18 were malignant. By means of these scans, it was possible to diagnose correctly not only the size and shape of the mass but also the internal characteristics. However, it was difficult to determine if the mass was benign or malignant.