bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thioredoxin 1 downregulates MCP-1 secretion and expression in human endothelial cells by suppressing nuclear translocation of activator protein 1 and redox factor-1
Authors: Chen Beidong , Guan Dandan , Cui Zong Jie , Wang Xian , Shen Xun
Published: December 2009

To know whether thioredoxin 1 (Trx1) works for an antioxidant defense mechanism in atherosclerosis, the effect of Trx1 on the release of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), a potent chemoattractant for recruitment and accumulation of monocytes/macrophages in the intima of artery vessel, was investigated in human endothelial-like EA.hy 926 cells. It was found that overexpression of Trx1 suppressed, whereas knockdown of endogenous Trx1 enhanced, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-stimulated MCP-1 release and expression in the cells. It was also observed that overexpression of Trx1 suppressed, whereas depletion of endogenous Trx1 greatly promoted, nuclear translocation of c-Jun and the redox factor-1 (Ref-1). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed significantly reduced DNA-binding activity of activator protein-1 (AP-1) in Trx1-overexpressing cells but apparently enhanced DNA binding activity of AP-1 in Trx1-knockdown cells, indicating that nuclear Ref-1 rather than Trx1 itself finally dominates the regulation of AP-1 activity, although Trx1 is considered to upregulate AP-1 activity. It was also observed that Trx1 depressed intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), the inhibitor of NADPH oxidase, suppressed MCP-1 secretion, whereas transient expression of Nox1 enhanced transcription of MCP-1 in endothelial cells. Assays with AP-1 and MCP-1 luciferase reporters further demonstrated that transient expression of Trx1 significantly depressed the transcriptional activity of c-Jun/c-Fos and consequent MCP-1 transcription. This study suggests that Trx1 inherently suppresses MCP-1 expression in vascular endothelium and may prevent atherosclerosis by depressing MCP-1 release. Besides the suppression of intracellular ROS generation, the inhibition of nuclear translocation of AP-1 and Ref-1 are mainly responsible for the downregulation of MCP-1 by Trx1.
Shear stress-induced ATP-mediated endothelial constitutive nitric oxide synthase expression in human lymphatic endothelial cells
Authors: Kawai Yoshiko , Yokoyama Yumiko , Kaidoh Maki , Ohhashi Toshio
Published: December 2009

To clarify the roles of lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) in the regulation of endothelial constitutive nitric oxide synthase (ecNOS) expression, we examined the effects of shear stress on ecNOS immunohistochemical staining and mRNA and protein expression in human LEC as well as on ATP release from these cells. Shear stress at 0.5 or 1.0 dyn/cm2 increased ecNOS immunohistochemical staining and ecNOS mRNA and protein expression in cultured LEC. The same strength of shear stress produced a significant release of ATP from the LEC. Exogenous ATP ranging in concentration from 10−9 to 10−6 M produced a significant increase in ecNOS immunohistochemical expression in a dose-dependent manner. The increase in ecNOS expression mediated by 10−6M ATP was significantly reduced by 10−5 M suramin. Suramin (10−5 M) caused a significant reduction in the shear stress-mediated increases in ecNOS immunohistochemical staining and mRNA expression. The shear stress-mediated increases in ecNOS expression were significantly reduced by 3 mM tetraethylammonium, 10−4 M apamin, 10−9 M iberiotoxin, 10−5 M 2-aminoethoxydephenyl borate, or 10−5M xestospongin C, but not 10−5 M glybenclamide or 10−5 M nifedipine. The shear stress-mediated increases in ecNOS expression were significantly potentiated by pinacidil or NS1619 in a dose-dependent manner. The immunohistochemical expression of small- (SKCa) and big-conductance (BKCa) Ca2+-activated K+ channels was confirmed on the surfaces of human LEC. These findings suggest that shear stress produces a significant release of ATP from LEC, which activates the purinergic P2X/2Y receptor, thereby facilitating ecNOS mRNA and protein expression through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-mediated release of intracellular Ca2+ ions and the activation of Ca2+-activated K+ channels in LEC.
15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 prevents inflammatory response and endothelial cell damage in rats with acute obstructive cholangitis
Authors: Watanabe Katsutaka , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Kokuryo Toshio , Kawai Kiyotaka , Kitagawa Tomomi , Seki Takashi , Nakagawa Akifumi , Nagino Masato
Published: January 2010

Acute obstructive cholangitis is a common disease with a high mortality rate. Ligands for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), such as 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15D-PGJ2), have been proposed as a new class of anti-inflammatory compounds. This study investigated the effect of 15D-PGJ2 treatment on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute obstructive cholangitis. The rats were randomly assigned to five groups: sham operation (Sham; simple laparotomy), sham operation with intraperitoneal saline infusion (Sham+Saline), sham operation with intraperitoneal LPS infusion (Sham+LPS), bile duct ligation (BDL) with saline infusion into the bile duct (BDL+Saline), and BDL with LPS infusion into the bile duct (BDL+LPS). Biochemical assays of blood samples, histology of the liver, portal venous pressure, hyaluronic acid clearance, and expression of inflammation-associated genes in the liver were evaluated. Furthermore, the Sham+LPS and the BDL+LPS group were divided into two groups (with and without 15D-PGJ2 treatment), and their survival rates were compared. Biochemical assays of blood samples, portal venous pressure, hyaluronic acid clearance, and expression of inflammation-associated genes in the liver were all significantly higher in the BDL+LPS group compared with those in the BDL+Saline group, indicating the presence of increased liver damage in the first group. However, preoperative administration of 15D-PGJ2 significantly improved these outcomes. Furthermore, the survival rate after establishment of cholangitis was significantly improved by the administration of 15D-PGJ2 in the BDL+LPS group. These results clearly demonstrate that 15D-PGJ2 inhibits the inflammatory response and endothelial cell damage seen in acute obstructive cholangitis and could contribute to improve the outcome of this pathology.
Downregulated Kv4.3 expression in the RVLM as a potential mechanism for sympathoexcitation in rats with chronic heart failure
Authors: Gao Lie , Li Yulong , Schultz Harold D. , Wang Wei-Zhong , Wang Wei , Finch Marcus , Smith Lynette M. , Zucker Irving H.
Published: December 2009

Elevated central angiotensin II (ANG II) plays a critical role in the sympathoexcitation of chronic heart failure (CHF) by stimulating upregulated ANG II type 1 receptors (AT1R) in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM). However, the link between enhanced ANG II signaling and alterations in the electrophysiological characteristics of neurons in the RVLM remains unclear. In the present experiments, we screened for potentially altered genes in the medulla of rats with CHF that are directly related to neuronal membrane conductance using the Rat Genome 230 2.0 Array GeneChip. We found that CHF rats exhibited a 2.1-fold reduction in Kv4.3 gene expression, one of the main voltage-gated K+ channels, in the medulla. Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed the downregulation of Kv4.3 in the RVLM of CHF rats. In intact animals, we found that microinjection of the voltage-gated potassium channel blocker, 4-aminopyridine, into the RVLM evoked a sympathoexcitation and hypertension in both normal and CHF rats. CHF rats exhibited smaller responses to 4-aminopyridine than did normal rats. Finally, we used a neuronal cell line (CATH.a neurons) to explore the effect of ANG II on Kv4.3 expression and function. We found that ANG II treatment significantly downregulated mRNA and protein expression of Kv4.3 and decreased the A-type K+ current. Employing this cell line, we also found that the ANG II-induced inhibition of Kv4.3 mRNA expression was attenuated by the superoxide scavenger Tempol and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB-203580. The effects of ANG II were abolished by the AT1R antagonist losartan. We conclude that the sympathoexcitation observed in the CHF state may be due, in part, to an ANG II-induced downregulation of Kv4.3 expression and subsequent decrease in K+ current, thereby increasing the excitability of neurons in the RVLM. The ANG II-induced inhibition of Kv4.3 mRNA expression was mediated by ANG II-AT1R-ROS-p38 MAPK signaling.
Bmp2 and Bmp4 exert opposing effects in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Anderson Lynda , Lowery Jonathan W. , Frank David B. , Novitskaya Tatiana , Jones Mark , Mortlock Douglas P. , Chandler Ronald L. , de Caestecker Mark P.
Published: December 2009

The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type 2 receptor ligand, Bmp2, is upregulated in the peripheral pulmonary vasculature during hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension (PH). This contrasts with the expression of Bmp4, which is expressed in respiratory epithelia throughout the lung. Unlike heterozygous null Bmp4 mice ( Bmp4LacZ/+), which are protected from the development of hypoxic PH, mice that are heterozygous null for Bmp2 ( Bmp2+/−) develop more severe hypoxic PH than their wild-type littermates. This is associated with reduced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and activity in the pulmonary vasculature of hypoxic Bmp2+/−but not Bmp4LacZ/+mutant mice. Furthermore, exogenous BMP2 upregulates eNOS expression and activity in intrapulmonary artery and pulmonary endothelial cell preparations, indicating that eNOS is a target of Bmp2 signaling in the pulmonary vasculature. Together, these data demonstrate that Bmp2 and Bmp4 exert opposing roles in hypoxic PH and suggest that the protective effects of Bmp2 are mediated by increasing eNOS expression and activity in the hypoxic pulmonary vasculature.
High-fat feeding alters the cardiovascular role of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus
Authors: Chen Feng , Cham Joo Lee , Badoer Emilio
Published: December 2009

Increased sympathetic nerve activity is associated with obesity-related hypertension, but the underlying central neural mechanisms are not clear. We examined the role of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in the regulation of sympathetic nerve activity in rats fed a normal chow diet (controls) and rats fed a high-fat diet (36% fat) over 12 wk. The effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity (LSNA) induced by microinjection of the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol or the antagonist bicuculline were monitored in anesthetized rats. Body weight of rats fed the high-fat diet was not significantly different from controls, but a significant 80% increase in epididymal fat mass, significantly elevated fasting blood glucose, and significantly impaired glucose tolerance were observed in rats fed the high-fat diet. Resting blood pressure and heart rate were not significantly different between rats fed the high-fat diet and controls. Muscimol microinjected into the PVN elicited a greater reduction of blood pressure and LSNA in rats fed the high-fat diet than controls: −14 ± 6 vs. −7 ± 2 mmHg and −35 ± 6 vs. −10 ± 9% ( P < 0.05). Microinjection of bicuculline into the PVN increased blood pressure and LSNA, but the responses were similar in rats fed the high-fat diet and controls. In conclusion, the role of the paraventricular nucleus in cardiovascular regulation can be altered by a diet high in fat, even when hypertension and obesity are absent.
Influence of indomethacin on ventilatory and cerebrovascular responsiveness to CO2and breathing stability: the influence of Pco2gradients
Authors: Fan Jui-Lin , Burgess Keith R. , Thomas Kate N. , Peebles Karen C. , Lucas Samuel J. E. , Lucas Rebekah A. I. , Cotter James D. , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: December 2009

Indomethacin (INDO), a reversible cyclooxygenase inhibitor, is a useful tool for assessing the role of cerebrovascular reactivity on ventilatory control. Despite this, the effect of INDO on breathing stability during wakefulness has yet to be examined. Although the effect of reductions in cerebrovascular CO2reactivity on ventilatory CO2sensitivity is likely dependent upon the method used, no studies have compared the effect of INDO on steady-state and modified rebreathing estimates of ventilatory CO2sensitivity. The latter method includes the influence of Pco2gradients and cerebral perfusion, whereas the former does not. We examined the hypothesis that INDO-induced reduction in cerebrovascular CO2reactivity would 1) cause unstable breathing in conscious humans and 2) increase ventilatory CO2sensitivity during the steady-state method but not during rebreathing methods. We measured arterial blood gases, ventilation (V̇e), and middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) before and 90 min following INDO ingestion (100 mg) or placebo in 12 healthy participants. There were no changes in resting arterial blood gases or V̇e following either intervention. INDO increased the magnitude of V̇e variability (index of breathing stability) during spontaneous air breathing (+4.3 ± 5.2 Δl/min, P = 0.01) and reduced MCAv (−25 ± 19%, P < 0.01) and MCAv-CO2reactivity during steady-state (−47 ± 27%, P < 0.01) and rebreathing (−32 ± 25%, P < 0.01). The V̇e-CO2sensitivity during the steady-state method was increased with INDO (+0.5 ± 0.5 l·min−1·mmHg−1, P < 0.01), while no changes were observed during rebreathing ( P > 0.05). These data indicate that the net effect of INDO on ventilatory control is an enhanced ventilatory loop gain resulting in increased breathing instability. Our findings also highlight important methodological and physiological considerations when assessing the effect of INDO on ventilatory CO2sensitivity, whereby the effect of INDO-induced reduction of cerebrovascular CO2reactivity on ventilatory CO2sensitivity is unmasked with the rebreathing method.
Hyperfiltration and inner stripe hypertrophy may explain findings by Gamble and coworkers
Authors: Layton Anita T. , Pannabecker Thomas L. , Dantzler William H. , Layton Harold E.
Published: December 2009

Simulations conducted in a mathematical model were used to exemplify the hypothesis that elevated solute concentrations and tubular flows at the boundary of the renal outer and inner medullas of rats may contribute to increased urine osmolalities and urine flow rates. Such elevated quantities at that boundary may arise from hyperfiltration and from inner stripe hypertrophy, which are correlated with increased concentrating activity (Bankir L, Kriz W. Kidney Int. 47: 7–24, 1995). The simulations used the region-based model for the rat inner medulla that was presented in the companion study (Layton AT, Pannabecker TL, Dantzler WH, Layton HE. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 298: F000–F000, 2010). The simulations were suggested by experiments which were conducted in rat by Gamble et al. (Gamble JL, McKhann CF, Butler AM, Tuthill E. Am J Physiol 109: 139–154, 1934) in which the ratio of NaCl to urea in the diet was systematically varied in eight successive 5-day intervals. The simulations predict that changes in boundary conditions at the boundary of the outer and inner medulla, accompanied by plausible modifications in transport properties of the collecting duct system, can significantly increase urine osmolality and flow rate. This hyperfiltration-hypertrophy hypothesis may explain the finding by Gamble et al. that the maximum urine osmolality attained from supplemental feeding of urea and NaCl in the eight intervals depends on NaCl being the initial predominant solute and on urea being the final predominant solute, because urea in sufficient quantity appears to stimulate concentrating activity. More generally, the hypothesis suggests that high osmolalities and urine flow rates may depend, in large part, on adaptive modifications of cortical hemodynamics and on outer medullary structure and not entirely on an extraordinary concentrating capability that is intrinsic to the inner medulla.
Angiotensin type 2 receptor actions contribute to angiotensin type 1 receptor blocker effects on kidney fibrosis
Authors: Naito Takashi , Ma Li-Jun , Yang Haichun , Zuo Yiqin , Tang Yiwei , Han Jee Young , Kon Valentina , Fogo Agnes B.
Published: December 2009

Angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptor blocker (ARB) ameliorates progression of chronic kidney disease. Whether this protection is due solely to blockade of AT1, or whether diversion of angiotensin II from the AT1to the available AT2receptor, thus potentially enhancing AT2receptor effects, is not known. We therefore investigated the role of AT2receptor in ARB-induced treatment effects in chronic kidney disease. Adult rats underwent 5/6 nephrectomy. Glomerulosclerosis was assessed by renal biopsy 8 wk later, and rats were divided into four groups with equivalent glomerulosclerosis: no further treatment, ARB, AT2receptor antagonist, or combination. By week 12 after nephrectomy, systolic blood pressure was decreased in all treatment groups, but proteinuria was decreased only with ARB. Glomerulosclerosis increased significantly in AT2receptor antagonist vs. ARB. Kidney cortical collagen content was decreased in ARB, but increased in untreated 5/6 nephrectomy, AT2receptor antagonist, and combined groups. Glomerular cell proliferation increased in both untreated 5/6 nephrectomy and AT2receptor antagonist vs. ARB, and phospho-Erk2 was increased by AT2receptor antagonist. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 mRNA and protein were increased at 12 wk by AT2receptor antagonist in contrast to decrease with ARB. Podocyte injury is a key component of glomerulosclerosis. We therefore assessed effects of AT1vs. AT2blockade on podocytes and interaction with plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. Cultured wild-type podocytes, but not plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 knockout, responded to angiotensin II with increased collagen, an effect that was completely blocked by ARB with lesser effect of AT2receptor antagonist. We conclude that the benefical effects on glomerular injury achieved with ARB are contributed to not only by blockade of the AT1receptor, but also by increasing angiotensin effects transduced through the AT2receptor.
Rhythmic contraction generates adjustable passive stiffness in rabbit detrusor
Authors: Almasri Atheer M. , Ratz Paul H. , Bhatia Hersch , Klausner Adam P. , Speich John E.
Published: January 2010

The length-tension ( L-T) relationships in airway and vascular smooth muscles have been shown to adapt with length changes over time. Our prior studies have shown that the active and passive L-T relationships in rabbit detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) can adapt and that DSM exhibits adjustable passive stiffness (APS) characterized by a passive L-T curve that is a function of strain and activation history. The present study demonstrates that passive tension due to APS can represent a substantial fraction of total tension over a broad length range. Our previous studies have shown that maximal KCl-induced contractions at short muscle lengths generate APS that is revealed by increased pseudo-steady-state passive tension at longer lengths compared with previous measurements at those lengths. The objective of the present study was to determine the mechanisms involved in APS generation. Increasing the number of KCl-induced contractions or the duration of a contraction increased the amount of APS generated. Furthermore, a fraction of APS was restored in calcium-free solution and was sensitive to the general serine and threonine protein kinase inhibitor staurosporine. Most importantly, rhythmic contraction (RC) generated APS, and because RC occurs spontaneously in human bladder, a physiological role for RC was potentially identified.
Frequency-Velocity Mismatch: A Fundamental Abnormality in Parkinsonian Gait
Authors: Cho Catherine , Kunin Mikhail , Kudo Koji , Osaki Yasuhiro , Olanow C. Warren , Cohen Bernard , Raphan Theodore
Published: December 2009

Gait dysfunction and falling are major sources of disability for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). It is presently thought that the fundamental defect is an inability to generate normal stride length. Our data suggest, however, that the basic problem in PD gait is an impaired ability to match step frequency to walking velocity. In this study, foot movements of PD and normal subjects were monitored with an OPTOTRAK motion-detection system while they walked on a treadmill at different velocities. PD subjects were also paced with auditory stimuli at different frequencies. PD gait was characterized by step frequencies that were faster and stride lengths that were shorter than those of normal controls. At low walking velocities, PD stepping had a reduced or absent terminal toe lift, which truncated swing phases, producing shortened steps. Auditory pacing was not able to normalize step frequency at these lower velocities. Peak forward toe velocities increased with walking velocity and PD subjects could initiate appropriate foot dynamics during initial phases of the swing. They could not control the foot appropriately in terminal phases, however. Increased treadmill velocity, which matched the natural PD step frequency, generated a second toe lift, normalizing step size. Levodopa increased the bandwidth of step frequencies, but was not as effective as increases in walking velocity in normalizing gait. We postulate that the inability to control step frequency and adjust swing phase dynamics to slower walking velocities are major causes for the gait impairment in PD.
Monotone Hybrid Projection Algorithms for an Infinitely Countable Family of Lipschitz Generalized Asymptotically Quasi‐Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Cholamjiak Watcharaporn , Suantai Suthep
Published: December 2009

We prove a weak convergence theorem of the modified Mann iteration process for a uniformly Lipschitzian and generalized asymptotically quasi‐nonexpansive mapping in a uniformly convex Banach space. We also introduce two kinds of new monotone hybrid methods and obtain strong convergence theorems for an infinitely countable family of uniformly Lipschitzian and generalized asymptotically quasi‐nonexpansive mappings in a Hilbert space. The results improve and extend the corresponding ones announced by Kim and Xu (2006) and Nakajo and Takahashi (2003).
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Medical or Surgical Treatment?
Authors: Liakakos Theodore , Karamanolis George , Patapis Paul , Misiakos Evangelos P.
Published: December 2009

Background. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition with increasing prevalence worldwide. The disease encompasses a broad spectrum of clinical symptoms and disorders from simple heartburn without esophagitis to erosive esophagitis with severe complications, such as esophageal strictures and intestinal metaplasia. Diagnosis is based mainly on ambulatory esophageal pH testing and endoscopy. There has been a long-standing debate about the best treatment approach for this troublesome disease.Methods and Results. Medical treatment with PPIs has an excellent efficacy in reversing the symptoms of GERD, but they should be taken for life, and long-term side effects do exist. However, patients who desire a permanent cure and have severe complications or cannot tolerate long-term treatment with PPIs are candidates for surgical treatment. Laparoscopic antireflux surgery achieves a significant symptom control, increased patient satisfaction, and complete withdrawal of antireflux medications, in the majority of patients.Conclusion. Surgical treatment should be reserved mainly for young patients seeking permanent results. However, the choice of the treatment schedule should be individualized for every patient. It is up to the patient, the physician and the surgeon to decide the best treatment option for individual cases.
On an Inequality of Diananda—Part IV
Authors: Gao Peng
Published: December 2009

We extend the results in parts I–III on certain inequalities involving the
weighted power means as well as the symmetric means. These inequalities can be largely viewed
as concerning the bounds for ratios of differences of means and can be traced back to the work of
Diananda.
A Complex of the Electromagnetic Biosensors with a Nanowired Pickup
Authors: Sklyar Rostyslav
Published: December 2009

The proposal to measure the biosignal values of different origins with advanced nanosensors of electromagnetic quantities is justified when allowing for superconducting abilities of the devices. They are composed in full‐scale arrays. The said arrays can be both implantable into ionic channels of an organism and sheathed on the sources of the electromagnetic emanation. Nanowired head sensors function both in passive mode for picking up the biosignals and with additional excitation of a defined biomedium through the same head (in reverse). The designed variety of bio‐nanosensors allow interfacing a variety of biosignals with the external systems, also with a possibility to control the exposure on an organism by artificially created signals. The calculated signals lies in the range of −5 to 5 V, (7 ÷ 0) · 1017/cm3 molecules or magnetic beads, 2 ÷ 10 pH, and stream speed 3 · 10−3 ÷ 102 m/s, flow 10−5 ÷ 10 m/s, and haemoglobin concentration of 1030 ÷ 1024 molec/cm3. The sensitivity of this micro‐ or nanoscope can be estimated as HJ = 10−4 (A · m/√Hz) with SNR equal to 104. The sensitivity of an advanced first‐order biogradiometer is equal to 3 fT/√Hz. The smallest resolvable change in magnetic moment detected by this system in the band 10 Hz is 1 fJ/T.
Perforation of the Right Ventricle Induced by Pulmonary Artery Catheter at Induction of Anesthesia for the Surgery for Liver Transplantation: A Case Report and Reviewed of Literature
Authors: Auxiliadora-Martins Maria , Apinagés dos Santos Erick , Adans Wenzinger Daniel , Alkmim-Teixeira Gil Cezar , Neto Gerardo Cristino de M. , Sankarankutty Ajith Kumar , de Castro e Silva Orlando , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Basile-Filho Anibal
Published: December 2009

We report a case of a 45-year-old male patient diagnosed with liver cirrhosis by hepatitis C and alcohol, with a Child-Pugh score C and a model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score of 27, and submitted to liver transplantation. The subject underwent insertion of the pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) in the right internal jugular vein, with technical difficulty concerning catheter advance. There was sudden hypotension, increase in central venous pressure (CVP), and decrease inSvO215 minutes after the PAC had been inserted, followed by cardiorespiratory arrest in pulseless electrical activity (PEA), which was promptly assisted with resuscitation. Pericardiocentesis was performed without success, so the individual was subjected to a subxiphoid pericardial window, which led to output of large amounts of blood as well as PEA reversal to sinus rhythm. Sternotomy was performed; rupture of the apex of the right ventricle (RV) was detected, and suture of the site was accomplished. After hemodynamic stabilization, the patient was transferred to the ICU, where he developed septic shock and, despite adequate therapy, died on the eighteenth day after ICU admission.
Myeloperoxidase Content is a Marker of Systemic Inflammation in a Chronic Condition: The Example Given by the Periodontal Disease in Rats
Authors: Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Pacheco Cinthia Mara da Fonseca , Fonseca Allyson Henrique , Klein André , Caliari Marcelo Vidigal , de Francischi Janetti Nogueira
Published: December 2009

The study aimed to evaluate the suitability of myeloperoxidase (MPO) content as a local indicator of chronic inflammation, using the periodontal disease model. Anesthetized adult male Holtzman rats had their second left maxilar molar tied by a thread for 11 days and were then killed. Blood samples and photographic images from histopathological inflamed and noninflamed (contralateral) neighboring gingivomucosal specimens were collected for cell counts and MPO level analysis. Diseased animals were also treated with pharmacological tools such as the anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib or the opioid morphine. Increased blood neutrophils and local cell numbers characterized diseased animals. However, local MPO content was increased in inflamed and noninflamed tissues from diseased animals. Celecoxib and morphine reduced blood neutrophils and bilateral MPO content, but only celecoxib reduced local cell numbers in diseased animals. It is concluded that MPO content is a good indicator of a systemic rather than a local inflammation in a chronic inflammatory condition.
Engel Series and Cohen‐Egyptian Fraction Expansions
Authors: Laohakosol Vichian , Chaichana Tuangrat , Rattanamoong Jittinart , Kanasri Narakorn Rompurk
Published: December 2009

Two kinds of series representations, referred to as the Engel series and the Cohen‐Egyptian fraction expansions, of elements in two different fields, namely, the real number and the discrete‐valued non‐archimedean fields are constructed. Both representations are shown to be identical in all cases except the case of real rational numbers.
Implementation and Application of PSF‐Based EPI Distortion Correction to High Field Animal Imaging
Authors: Paul Dominik , Zaitsev Maxim , Harsan Laura , Kurutsch Anja , Splitthoff Daniel Nico , Hennel Franciszek , Choli Morwan , von Elverfeldt Dominik
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the functionality and performance of a PSF‐based geometric distortion correction for high‐field functional animal EPI. The EPI method was extended to measure the PSF and a postprocessing chain was implemented in Matlab for offline distortion correction. The correction procedure was applied to phantom and in vivo imaging of mice and rats at 9.4T using different SE‐EPI and DWI‐EPI protocols. Results show the significant improvement in image quality for single‐ and multishot EPI. Using a reduced FOV in the PSF encoding direction clearly reduced the acquisition time for PSF data by an acceleration factor of 2 or 4, without affecting the correction quality.
Oscillatory Nonautonomous Lucas Sequences
Authors: Ferreira José M. , Pinelas Sandra
Published: December 2009

The oscillatory behavior of the solutions of the
second‐order linear nonautonomous equation x(n + 1) = a(n)x(n) − b(n)x(n − 1),   n ∈ ℕ0,
where a, b : ℕ0 → ℝ, is studied. Under the assumption that the sequence b(n)
dominates somehow a(n), the amplitude of the oscillations and the asymptotic behavior of its solutions are also analized.
Hybrid Methods for Equilibrium Problems and Fixed Points Problems of a Countable Family of Relatively Nonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Plubtieng Somyot , Sriprad Wanna
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this paper is to introduce hybrid projection algorithms for finding a common element of the set of common fixed points of a countable family of relatively nonexpansive mappings and the set of solutions of an equilibrium problem in the framework of Banach spaces. Moreover, we apply our result to the problem of finding a common element of an equilibrium problem and the problem of finding a zero of a maximal monotone operator. Our result improve and extend the corresponding results announced by Takahashi and Zembayashi (2008 and 2009), and many others.
Meeting Report on the Second Targeted Tumor Therapies
Authors: Bachran Christopher , Fuchs Hendrik
Published: January 2010

This meeting report on the fourth Fabisch Symposium for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology describes the aims of the international meeting, the main topics of the presentations, and the highlights of the conference. The fourth Fabisch Symposium was the second on Targeted Tumor Therapies and held from April 1–3, 2009 in Berlin, Germany. The meeting focused on noncarrier-based targeted tumor therapies and their clinical application. The world's leading experts in this field presented the state of the art on tumor-specific targeting and tumor growth inhibition, drug design and production, and the description of innovative strategies for improved delivery. The topics concentrated on immunotoxins and other targeted toxins as anticancer drugs, thus providing a specialized meeting platform not existing elsewhere for these therapeutics. Although a number of innovative approaches on the avoidance of immune responses against highly effective toxins were presented, a notable conclusion of the meeting and direction for future research is the acute need to further reduce the immunogenicity of the targeted toxins, which hampers the efficacy of this group of therapeutics in clinical studies. The meeting successfully fostered plans for further research and cooperation between different groups to hopefully achieve advanced translational and clinical studies. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(1); 17–23
Stage 2 Combination Testing of Rapamycin with Cytotoxic Agents by the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program
Authors: Houghton Peter J. , Morton Christopher L. , Gorlick Richard , Lock Richard B. , Carol Hernan , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kang Min H. , Maris John M. , Keir Stephen T. , Kolb E. Anders , Wu Jianrong , Wozniak Amy W. , Billups Catherine A. , Rubinstein Larry , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: January 2010

Rapamycin demonstrated broad-spectrum tumor growth inhibition activity against the in vivo panels of childhood tumors used in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP). Here we have evaluated rapamycin combined with agents used frequently in the treatment of childhood malignancies. Rapamycin was tested in vitro against 23 cell lines alone or in combination with melphalan, cisplatin, vincristine, or dexamethasone (leukemic models only). In vivo, the impact of combining rapamycin with a cytotoxic agent was evaluated using two measures: 1) the therapeutic enhancement measure, and 2) a linear regression model for time-to-event to formally evaluate for sub- and supraadditivity for the combination compared to the agents used alone. Combining rapamycin with cytotoxic agents in vitro gave predominantly subadditive or additive effects, except for dexamethasone in leukemia models for which supra-additive activity was observed. In vivo testing demonstrated that therapeutic enhancement was common for rapamycin in combination with cyclophosphamide and occurred for 4 of 11 evaluable xenografts for the rapamycin and vincristine combination. The combinations of rapamycin with either cyclophosphamide or vincristine were significantly more effective than the respective standard agents used alone at their maximum tolerated doses (MTD) for most evaluable xenografts. The combination of rapamycin and cisplatin produced excessive toxicity requiring cisplatin dose reductions, and therapeutic enhancement was not observed for this combination. Addition of rapamycin to either cyclophosphamide or vincristine at their respective MTDs appears promising, as these combinations are relatively well tolerated and as many of the pediatric preclinical models evaluated demonstrated therapeutic enhancement for these combinations. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(1); 101–12
EMG und Fazialisdekompression bei Bell’scher Lähmung
Authors: Hiestand P. , Kaeser H. , Kocher R. , Pfaltz C.R.
Published: January 2010

Long term follow up control in 40 cases of Bell’s Palsy which had been treated by decompressive surgery of the facial nerve in its intratemporal course have led us to the following conclusions: Electromyography (EMG) is actually the only method allowing an objective and reliable control of the nervous disfunction during and after its full development as well as during the course of recovery. For this reason every case of Bell’s Palsy ought to be controlled in regular intervals (1–2 weeks) electromyographically from the very beginning of the paresis. Evaluation of operative results following decompression of the facial nerve should be based on the results of repeated EMG-studies and no longer upon the subjective impression of the surgeon following up the patient. EMG examinations performed immediately after the onset of an idio-pathic facial paralysis reveal only one reliable symptom indicating the necessity of a decompression at an early stage: the occurrence of fibrillation potentials. The present study does not give any evidence in favour of the hypothesis that postoperative functional results may be improved by an emergency operation, i.e. by performing the decompression as soon as possible after the onset of the paresis. The majority of total or subtotal facial paralysis recover spontaneously by the end of the 4th week. As long as fibrillation potentials are absent, there is no indication for a decompression during the first 4 weeks. In cases showing no symptoms of spontaneous recovery at the end of the 4th week (e.g. polyphasic muscle action potentials) decompression of the nerve is absolutely indicated, because the chances of a spontaneous recovery during the following weeks or months are extremely small. For this reason no precious time should be wasted. If during the first 10 days, EMG examinations reveal the presence of fibrillation potentials, immediate decompression is indicated.
Die Behandlung der Sinusitis maxillaris mit Terracortril Gel
Authors: Schläppi P. , Neiger M.
Published: January 2010

Seventy-three patients suffering from different forms of maxillary sinusitis were treated by instillation of Terracortril Gel. While the application is very practical and without danger to the patient, a high rate of rapid recovery can be proved in all forms.
Zur Schallokalisation bei verschiedenen zerebralen Läsionen
Authors: Szikszay I. , Gloning K.
Published: January 2010

In earlier experiment the faculty to localize sounds and white noise of normal hearing controls and patients with different types of peripherical disturbances in hearing was investigated. The present paper deels with the influence of not acute localized cerebral lesions on noise localization in these patients. A normal hearing control group was also examined. An unvisible sound source could be moved 120° in front of the patient, the patient had to localize this sound source by directing a light arrow with one hand. The patients with cerebral lesion were significantly worse than the controls. The group with left-sided cerebral lesions scored significantly worse that the others within their right auditory fields. Basing on these results we assume that this kind of troubles is caused by a disturbance of auditory-motor coordination and has to be in some connection with cerebral dominance.
Surface Structure of the Ampulla of the Semicircular Canal in the Guinea Pig
Authors: Watanuki K. , Kawamoto K. , Katagiri S.
Published: January 2010

Investigations were performed by light microscope on the surface area of the ampulla of the semicircular canal in the guinea pig. Besides the conventional sections, dissected specimens of the ampulla after silver reaction (silver nitrate staining) were used. The surface view of the sensory epithelium of the crista ampullaris was shown by this method. The sensory epithelium of the crista ampullaris was encircled with cylindrical prismatic cells, which made a gradual transition with the supporting cells of the sensory epithelium on one side, but made an abrupt transition with the dark cell area on both the utricular and canalicular sides and formed the plana semilunata on both lateral sides of the ampulla. The free surface of each planum semilunatum cell was smaller near the sensory epithelium becoming larger towards the roof of the ampulla. The roof cells of the ampulla which were continuous with the planum semilunatum cells without any specific border, became smaller towards the midline at the top of the ampullary dome. This midline of smaller cell area extended in both utricular and canalicular directions.
Pneumatisation des Schläfenbeines und Heilungsverlauf nach Mastoidektomie im Kindesalter mil und ohne Antibiotika
Authors: Stricker G.
Published: January 2010

The pneumatisation of the temporal bone after mastoidectoniy in early childhood was checked by X-ray examination in 79 cases. The younger the children have been at the time of the operation, the higher was the percentage of a new good pneumatisation of the temporal bone in the later age. A characteristic finding was a difference in the size of the cells, even if the pneumatisation has developed good again. The statistic evaluation showed, that the application of antibiotics had no significant influence on pneumatisation. In addition there was no connection between finding’s at the time of operation, duration of healing, results of the bacteriological examination and pneumatisation. On the contrary years later all cases with recurrent mastoiditis developed a sclerotic mastoid. The swabs of the auditory cannal showed much more staphylococci, than out of the mastoid cavity. In the mastoid cavity the streptococci were the most seen germs. As a result of the audiomelric examination patients with sclerotic mastoids after mastoidectoniy in childhood had a higher percentage of hearing loss, than those with a good pneumatisation.
The Development of the Sensory Epithelium of the Cristae Ampullares in the Rabbit
Authors: Nakai Y.
Published: January 2010

Phase contrast and electron microscopy was used to study the maturation of the sensory epithelia in the cristae ampullares in the rabbits. The sensory cells differentiate from the simple cylindrical cells at the time their nerve endings make synaptic contact. The afferent nerve endings in the hair cells type II have been first appeared. Then the efferent innervation in the hair cells type II and nerve chalice formation in the hair cells type I have been occurred at birth. The significance of this findings was discussed.
Biochemical Properties of Human Tonsillar Lymphocytes
Authors: Piffkó P. , Köteles G.J. , Antoni F.
Published: January 2010

The lymphocytes isolated from human tonsils have been characterized by biochemical methods. The amounts of ribonucleic acid, deoxyribonucleic acid and protein per cell are given. The cells are able to incorporate 14C-labelled precursors into ribonucleic acid and protein, invitro. Applying the methods mentioned, the biosynthetic capacity of cells obtained from various individuals can be compared.
Auswirkungen der Hemimandibulektomie auf das restierende Kiefergelenk
Authors: Schneider H.R. , Rösli A. , Wey W.
Published: January 2010

In operative treatment of extensive tumors of the lateral oropharyngeal region a combination of hemimandibulectomy and radical neck dissection (composite operation) is often necessary. The morphological and functional effects of hemimandibulectomy on the remaining temporo-mandibular joint are examined by clinical and radiological studies in 7 cases. Immediately after operation the patient will have problems with feeding, speech, adaptation of the prosthesis, occlusion and articulation. However, compensation will develop to a large extent. From our late results we conclude that these difficulties are so small that plastic reconstruction of the removed mandible does not appear urgent. Postoperative irradiation should always be undertaken, if the histology of the tumor proves to be radiosensitive, regardless of the complications for a later plastic reconstruction. The postoperative deviation of the mandible is reduced in edentulous patients with the help on an inclined plane. If the teeth are preserved, postoperative fixation with elastic ligatures is done as soon as possible in order to adjust slowly the position of the mandible to achieve central occlusion.
L’endoscopie laryngo-trachéale chez les enfants nés avant terme et les nourrissons, en particulier après intubation prolongée
Authors: Goumaz C.-F.
Published: January 2010

As prolonged intubation in new born babies, in particular premature babies, is becoming more and more frequent and laryngotracheal sequelae is having to be systematically researched, we employ an endoscopy with magnifying lenses being designed for an arthroscopy, in order to practice a precise laryngotracheoscopy, as soon and as less traumatic as possible for these small patients. The facility of employing this instrument has multified the indications.
Streptomycin and Kanamycin Effect upon the Vestibular Sensory Epithelia of the Maculae sacculi and utriculi in the Guinea Pig
Authors: Watanuki K. , Meyer zum Gottesberge A.
Published: January 2010

The pathological patterns of the sensory epithelia of the maculae sacculi and utriculi were investigated after streptomycin and kanamycin administration. The silver reaction method and the succinic dehydrogenase staining were used for the surface study of the sensory epithelia. The sensory cells of type I with the common nerve chalices in the striola were most vulnerable. There was no conspicuous difference of sensitivity between the type II cells inside and outside the striola. The morphological vulnerability was emphasized in the explanation for the difference in degree of sensitivity between the type I and the type II sensory cells.
Comparative Research on the Acoustic System
Authors: Beck Ch. , Stange G.
Published: January 2010

We know a great number of methods for investigating the Physiology and Pathophysiology of the acoustic system, but seldom were several methods applied together to solve one single problem. In our own experiments we demonstrate the importance of correlated investigations on the acoustic system. They show, e.g., that functional impairment of the sensory cells in the organ of corti, caused by ototoxic drugs, can earlier be seen than morphological changes. The sensory cells with nuclear swelling are functionally inactive, and even those with morphologically normal appearance sometimes show functional impairment. A differentiation of damages caused either by acoustic stimulation or by ototoxic drugs is possible by electrophysiological and immunophoretical but not by morphological means. Therefore we think that the correlation between morphological, electrophysiological and biochemical findings gives us better information about the inner ear function.
Automated Behavioral Conditioning in Animals
Authors: Ishiyama E. , Lewandowski J.R. , Myers E.N.
Published: January 2010

The authors are introducing an automated method of behavioral conditioning and determining the hearing threshold in the squirrel monkey. This apparatus is practical, convenient and very accurate for measuring auditory responses, yet does not require constant observation by the investigator.
Fixation Effects on the Relation Between the Tectorial Membrane and the Cilia of the Hair Cells
Authors: Borghesan E.
Published: January 2010

The observation of unusual specimens induces one to suggest that, in vivo, the cilia of the hair cells are deeply immersed in the tectorial membrane. The cilia show their terminal parts free only when, due to fixation effects, they are drawn out from the tectorial membrane. This relationship induces one to reconsider the modality of excitement of the cochlear receptors.
Electron Microscopic Study of the Inner Ear after Ethacrynic Acid Intoxication
Authors: Nakai Y.
Published: January 2010

The effects of ethacrynic acid, a potent new diuretic which causes sodium and potassium excretion, on the inner ear were studied by means of phase contrast microscopy and electron microscopy. High doses of ethacrynic acid were administered intra-peritoneally to mice until the Preyer’s reflex disappeared. Some of the animals were sacrificed immediately after final administration of ethacrynic acid and the others were allowed to recover for 1 to 4 months. The drug mainly affected the marginal cells of the stria vascularis. This structural change in the stria vascularis has recovered after 1 to 4 months. The organ of Corti was less affected than the stria vascularis but degeneration appeared in the outer hair cells in the lower turn, starting with degenerations in the mitochondria and distortion of stereocilia which did not recover. In the vestibule, vacuolization and protrusion of the supra-nuclear cytoplasm were observed in both the type I and type II hair cells. The nerve chalice was swollen and its membrane and the cytoplasmic membrane of the type I hair cell were irregularly separated. The ototoxic mechanism of this drug to the inner ear sensory epithelia and the transient hearing loss were discussed from the morphological point of view.