Not just a man's world: women's political leadership in the American labor movement

Although women have long played an important role in working class struggles, most leadership positions in unions have been held by men. Organized labor's recent shift towards social movement unionism has lead to a sense of optimism among those pressing for more gender equality among labor's elite. Yet scholarship on gender and power in other settings, including political institutions, social movements, and formal organizations, suggests other factors may also play a role in determining women's leadership in labor unions. The current research, based on a rich dataset of 70 local unions, provides important insight into the political careers of women. Beyond an analysis of organized labor, this research has implications for understanding the interplay of gender and power in formal organizations and social movements more broadly.

Rules don’t apply: Kafka’s insights on bureaucracy

Weber’s ideal typical model of bureaucracy constitutes the starting point for most scholarship on organizations. Much organizational behaviour, however occurs outside this formalized model. It is thus somewhat surprising that behaviours outside the formal-rational model are, more often than not, treated as aberrations. In contrast, the emerging critical literature on ‘inhabited institutions’ has identified such gaps in our theoretical understanding as foundational, warranting a more agentic conception of organizational life—a conception more fully acknowledging of and sensitive to the dynamics of power in organizational life. In this regard, we highlight four prevalent (though seldom theoretically incorporated) features of contemporary bureaucracies—divergent goals, patrimonialism, unwritten rules and chaos. These features, which we contend are no less critical to organizational functioning than those identified by Weber, constitute an organizational logic more compatible with a Kafkan vision of bureaucracy than with a Weberian one. Theorizing such attributes allows us to explore elements of bureaucratic life that the formal-rational model of bureaucracy renders largely invisible and is conceptually and empirically ill equipped to incorporate. An illustrative analysis, drawing on narrative data drawn from the population of organizational ethnographies ( n = 162) (1) demonstrates the prominence of such dynamics in organizational life; and (2) highlights their implications for rule breaking as a relatively common yet under-theorized occurrence. A core implication of our analysis and critique is that the social sciences need a fundamentally revised theory of bureaucracy capable of understanding bureaucracy’s power laden and often dystrophic features.

Expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR2 in normal and neoplastic neuroendocrine cells

BACKGROUND

Chemokines effect their proinflammatory and growth regulatory roles through interaction with serpentine receptors. One such receptor, CXCR2, binds multiple CXC chemokines, including interleukin 8, GRO-alpha, GRO-beta, GRO-gamma, and NAP-2. We have previously identified CXCR2 expression on myeloid cells, notably mature granulocytes, and projection neurons.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the expression of CXCR2 by cells of the neuroendocrine system.

DESIGN

Archival specimens from normal neuroendocrine tissues and their malignant counterparts were analyzed by immunohistochemistry with monoclonal antibodies specific for CXCR1 and CXCR2.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed high-level expression of CXCR2 by cells in the pituitary, adrenal medulla, pancreatic islets, thyroid C cells, scattered Kulchitsky cells in the bronchi, and counterpart neuroendocrine cells in the stomach, small bowel, colon, and appendix. Neuroendocrine neoplasms that demonstrated high-level CXCR2 expression included (1) primary carcinoids localized to the stomach, small bowel, colon, appendix, fallopian tube, ovary, and lung; (2) atypical carcinoids of the lung; (3) metastatic carcinoids; (4) pituitary adenomas; (5) pheochromocytomas; and (6) medullary carcinomas of the thyroid. Small cell lung carcinomas, large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas of the lung, small cell carcinoma of the cervix, Merkel cell carcinomas, neuroblastomas, and malignant melanomas lacked evidence of CXCR2 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of CXCR2 by normal neuroendocrine cells and neoplastic counterparts that have retained phenotypic features of this differentiation program suggests that chemokines may play an important role in functions that are characteristic of this cell type. In addition, this raises the possibility that chemokines may modulate secretion of biologically active products of these cells and their neoplastic counterparts.

Sodium pump isoforms in xenotransplantation: importance of biochemical compatibility

BACKGROUND

Xenotransplantation of pig hearts to humans could be hampered by the reportedly reduced affinity for digoxin of pig heart. We examined the hypothesis that expression of the individual alpha-subunit isoforms of the sodium pump [Na(+),K(+)-ATPase (NKA)], the receptor for the plant-derived cardiac glycosides, may be responsible for this difference.

METHODS

We used a NKA-inhibition assay in combination with Western analysis, immunohistochemistry, and phosphorylation of the NKA alpha subunit to identify the distribution and expression of alpha isoforms in four chambers of porcine and human hearts.

RESULTS

We confirmed that tissue from porcine heart is less sensitive to digitalis (IC(50) = 1740 nmol/L) when compared with human heart (IC(50) = 840 nmol/L), whereas porcine cerebral cortex-mix had an affinity comparable to that of human heart (IC(50) = 910 nmol/L). Our data show that porcine cerebral cortex-mix and human heart contain all three alpha isoforms, whereas porcine heart expresses only the alpha1 isoform.

CONCLUSIONS

The different expressions of sodium pump isoforms in human vs porcine cardiac tissues suggests that porcine hearts may not be pharmacologically or endocrinologically compatible when used in humans. Studies of both pharmacologic and endocrinologic tissue compatibility are needed prior to selection of organs for xenotransplantation.

Acute myeloblastic leukemia (M0) with an unusual chromosomal abnormality: translocation (1;14)(p13;q32)

We describe a case of acute myeloblastic leukemia, French-American-British subclassification of M0 (AML-M0), with an unusual chromosomal abnormality. The diagnosis of AML-M0 was made morphologically, cytochemically, and immunophenotypically. At the time of diagnosis, cytogenetic studies were performed, revealing a translocation involving chromosomes 1 and 14--specifically t(1;14)(p13;q32). The patient responded to high-dose ARA-C. In our survey of the literature, we were unable to find a reported case of AML-M0 with this chromosomal translocation.

Complement activation mediates intestinal injury after resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock

BACKGROUND

Endothelial cell injury after hemorrhage and resuscitation (HEM/RES) might contribute to intestinal hypoperfusion and mucosal ischemia. Our recent work suggests that the injury might be the result of complement activation. We hypothesized that HEM/RES causes complement-mediated endothelial cell dysfunction in the small intestine.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats (195-230 g) were anesthetized and HEM to 50% of baseline mean arterial pressure for 60 minutes. Just before RES, animals received either soluble complement receptor-1 (sCR1, 15 mg/kg) to inhibit complement activation or saline vehicle. Resuscitation was with shed blood and an equal volume of saline. Two hours after RES, the small bowel was harvested to evaluate intestinal nitric oxide synthase activity (NOS), neutrophil influx, histology, and oxidant injury.

RESULTS

HEM/RES induced tissue injury, increased neutrophil influx, and reduced NOS activity by 50% (vs. SHAM), all of which were completely prevented by sCR1 administration. There were no observed differences in oxidant injury between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Histologic tissue injury, increased neutrophil influx, and impaired NOS activity after HEM/RES were all prevented by complement inhibition. Direct oxidant injury did not seem to be a major contributor to these alterations. Complement inhibition after HEM might ameliorate reperfusion injury in the small intestine by protecting the endothelial cell, reducing neutrophil influx and preserving NOS function.

Small intestinal production of nitric oxide is decreased following resuscitated hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Small intestine microvascular vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion develop after resuscitation (RES) from hemorrhage (HEM), despite restoration of central hemodynamics. The responsible mechanisms are unclear. We hypothesized that the microvascular impairment following HEM/RES was due to decreased intestinal microvascular nitric oxide (NO) production.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats (195-230 g) were utilized and three experimental groups were studied: (1) SHAM (cannulated but no HEM), (2) HEM only, and (3) HEM/RES. HEM was to 50% of baseline mean arterial pressure for 60 min, and RES was with shed blood and an equivalent volume of saline. Ex vivo isolated intestinal perfusion and a fluorometric modification of the Greiss reaction were used to quantify production of NO metabolites (NOx). Perfusate von Willebrand factor (vWF) was used as an indirect marker of endothelial cell activation or injury. To assess the degree of NO scavenging by oxygen-derived free radicals, immunohistochemistry was used to detect nitrotyrosine formation in the intestine.

RESULTS

Intestinal NOx decreased following HEM/RES (SHAM 1.35 +/- 0.2 mM vs HEM/RES 0.60 +/- 0.1 mM, P < 0.05), but not with HEM alone (1.09 +/- 0.3 mM). There were no differences in serum NOx levels between the three groups. Release of vWF was increased during the HEM period (SHAM 0.18 +/- 0.1 g/dl vs HEM 1.66 +/- 0.6 g/dl, P < 0.05). There was no detectable nitrotyrosine formation in any group.

CONCLUSIONS

Intestinal NO metabolites decrease following HEM/RES. Elevated vWF levels during HEM and the lack of detectable nitrotyrosine suggest that this is due to decreased endothelial cell production of NO. HEM/RES-induced endothelial cell dysfunction may contribute to persistent small intestine post-RES hypoperfusion and vasoconstriction.

Expression of chemokine receptors by subsets of neurons in the central nervous system

IL-8 is expressed by activated and neoplastic astrocytes and enhances the survival of hippocampal neurons in vitro. Since mRNA encoding chemokine receptors have been demonstrated in brain, the expression of chemokine receptors by specific cell types in anatomic regions of the central nervous system (CNS) was investigated. Archival tissues from various regions of the CNS were stained with specific mAbs to the Duffy Ag/receptor for chemokines, a promiscuous receptor that binds selected chemokines; the specific receptor for IL-8 (CXCR1); and the receptor (CXCR2) shared by IL-8 and melanoma growth stimulatory activity. The Duffy Ag/receptor for chemokines was expressed exclusively by Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. Chemokine binding and radioligand cross-linking confirmed the presence of a high affinity, promiscuous chemokine receptor in the cerebellum. Although CXCR1 was not expressed in the CNS, CXCR2 was expressed at high levels by subsets of projection neurons in diverse regions of the brain and spinal cord, including the hippocampus, dentate nucleus, pontine nuclei, locus coeruleus, and paraventricular nucleus, and in the anterior horn, interomediolateral cell column, and Clarke's column of the spinal cord. Fibers that express CXCR2 included those in the superior cerebellar peduncle and the substantia gelatinosa. Immunohistochemical analysis of the involved brain tissues from patients with Alzheimer's disease revealed expression of CXCR2 in the neuritic portion of plaques surrounding deposits of amyloid. These data suggest that chemokines may play a role in reactive processes in normal neuronal function and neurodegenerative disorders.

Expression of chemokine receptors by subsets of neurons in the central nervous system

IL-8 is expressed by activated and neoplastic astrocytes and enhances the survival of hippocampal neurons in vitro. Since mRNA encoding chemokine receptors have been demonstrated in brain, the expression of chemokine receptors by specific cell types in anatomic regions of the central nervous system (CNS) was investigated. Archival tissues from various regions of the CNS were stained with specific mAbs to the Duffy Ag/receptor for chemokines, a promiscuous receptor that binds selected chemokines; the specific receptor for IL-8 (CXCR1); and the receptor (CXCR2) shared by IL-8 and melanoma growth stimulatory activity. The Duffy Ag/receptor for chemokines was expressed exclusively by Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. Chemokine binding and radioligand cross-linking confirmed the presence of a high affinity, promiscuous chemokine receptor in the cerebellum. Although CXCR1 was not expressed in the CNS, CXCR2 was expressed at high levels by subsets of projection neurons in diverse regions of the brain and spinal cord, including the hippocampus, dentate nucleus, pontine nuclei, locus coeruleus, and paraventricular nucleus, and in the anterior horn, interomediolateral cell column, and Clarke's column of the spinal cord. Fibers that express CXCR2 included those in the superior cerebellar peduncle and the substantia gelatinosa. Immunohistochemical analysis of the involved brain tissues from patients with Alzheimer's disease revealed expression of CXCR2 in the neuritic portion of plaques surrounding deposits of amyloid. These data suggest that chemokines may play a role in reactive processes in normal neuronal function and neurodegenerative disorders.

Role of p53 immunohistochemistry in differentiating reactive gliosis from malignant astrocytic lesions

P53 immunohistochemistry has been used to distinguish between malignant tumors and morphologically similar benign processes. In the central nervous system, a major diagnostic dilemma is caused by overlapping features of benign reactive astrocytic lesions and low-grade astrocytomas, especially with small biopsies. P53 immunoreactivity in astrocytes could be useful in differentiating benign reactive lesions from malignant astrocytomas. An immunohistochemical study on 110 brain lesions from 108 patients using a monoclonal antibody (DO-7) against p53 protein was conducted. Using the modified Ringertz and World Health Organization system, the specimens included 22 astrocytomas, 12 anaplastic astrocytomas, 42 glioblastoma multiforme tumors, three nonglial tumors, and 56 reactive astrocytic lesions to 25 neoplasms, nine infectious processes, six cerebrovascular disorders,one metabolic disorder, two vascular malformations, eleven degenerative/demyelinating lesions, and two unknown primary lesions. Immunoreactive astrocytic tumors included 12 (54%) astrocytomas, nine (75%) anaplastic astrocytomas, and 38 glioblastoma multiforme tumors (90%). Among the reactive astrocytic lesions, only five (9%) cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy were immunoreactive. These data demonstrate that p53 immunoreactivity in astrogliosis is unusual but is to be expected in astrocytomas and can help to differentiate reactive from neoplastic astrocytic lesions.

The role of cytokines, adhesion molecules, and chemokines in interleukin-2-induced lymphocytic infiltration in C57BL/6 mice

IL-2 mediates the regression of certain malignancies, but clinical use is limited because of associated toxicities, including parenchymal lymphocytic infiltration with multiple organ failure. Secondarily induced cytokines are important mediators of IL-2 toxicity and IL-2-induced lymphocyte-endothelial adherence and trafficking. The recently discovered C-C chemokines, RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secreted) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha, have also been implicated in lymphocytic migration. We hypothesized that IL-2 alters cytokine, C-C chemokine, and adhesion molecule expression in association with parenchymal lymphocytic infiltration. C57BL/6 mice were injected with 3x10(5) IU of IL-2 or 0.1 ml of 5% dextrose intraperitoneally every 8 h for 6 d, then killed. IL-2 induced massive lymphocytic infiltration in the liver and lung and moderate infiltration in the kidney in association with organ edema and dysfunction. Immunostaining showed increased intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression in association with this organ-specific lymphocytic infiltration. Flow cytometry showed increased expression of the corresponding ligands (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 and very late antigen-4) on splenocytes. IL-2 increased TNF-alpha mRNA and protein expression in the liver. Organs infiltrated by lymphocytes had increased TNF-alpha mRNA, whereas RANTES mRNA was increased in all organs, regardless of lymphocytic infiltration. IL-2 toxicity involves organ-specific TNF-alpha and RANTES production with increased ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression as potential mechanisms facilitating lymphocytic infiltration and organ dysfunction.

Epitope enhancement for immunohistochemical demonstration of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase

We have developed a monoclonal antibody (9C5) for immunohistochemical localization of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAcP). This antibody reacts with a denatured epitope of TRAcP and requires enhancement methods to promote antigenicity in paraffin-embedded tissues. We used this antibody to systematically examine proteolytic digestion and heat denaturation conditions for epitope enhancement in both paraffin sections and fixed smears. The goal was to increase the sensitivity of the immunohistochemical stain for TRAcP. Optimal conditions for proteolytic digestion were established. Denaturation in a conventional boiling water bath was compared to microwave irradiation in several commonly used solutions. Immunohistochemistry was compared directly to TRAcP cytochemistry in fixed smears from hairy cell leukemia specimens to gauge the level of sensitivity of our improved method. Attempts were made to "retrieve" the 9C5 epitope from overfixed tissues and aged smears. Maximal immunoreactivity of TRAcP was achieved by microwave irradiation in a citrate or Tris buffer of pH 6.0-8.0 without the need for a subsequent protease digestion step. With this method of epitope enhancement, immunohistochemistry with antibody 9C5 was as sensitive as direct cytochemical staining of TRAcP activity. However, once a tissue specimen had been overfixed or a smear stored for a year or more, the 9C5 epitope was no longer retrievable. The key element in epitope enhancement for 9C5 immunohistochemistry is heat denaturation of the target epitope. Immunohistochemistry of TRAcP in paraffin sections would be a great asset to the study of specialized forms of the monocyte/macrophage lineage and to the process of macrophage activation. It would also provide another means for more precise evaluation of residual disease in bone marrow of patients treated for hairy cell leukemia.

Localization of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in human placenta

Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase is an inducible marker of cell differentiation and activation expressed by specialized cells of macrophage lineage and some activated lymphocytes. Clinically, this phosphatase is a diagnostic marker for hairy cell leukaemia and osteoclast activity. The cDNA for this enzyme has been cloned from a placental expression library, yet the cell(s) expressing the enzyme protein has not been determined with certainty. Our laboratories have developed a monoclonal antibody, 9C5, suitable for immunohistochemical localization of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in paraffin sections. The purpose of this study was to use antibody 9C5 to identify cells expressing tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in sections of paraffin-embedded, normal, full-term placenta and to determine if those cells expressed other macrophage markers including CD68 (PG-M1 antibody), LN5, lysozyme, alpha 1-antitrypsin and alpha 1-antichymotrypsin. Histochemical localization of activity in frozen sections was compared with immunohistochemical localization in paraffin sections of the same tissue specimens. The activity and antigenicity of this enzyme were detected in decidual cells, syncytiotrophoblast, and some macrophages distributed throughout maternal and embryonic tissues, but not in neutrophils. Unlike other tissues previously examined, placenta contains significant numbers of the phosphate-positive cells that are not of macrophage origin.

B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder complicated by a natural killer cell lymphoproliferative disorder of granular lymphocytes associated with T-cell gene rearrangement: case report and review of the literature

We report an unusual case of natural killer cell lymphoproliferative disorder of granular lymphocytes associated with a T-cell receptor (TCR)-beta gene rearrangement. The patient developed the disorder 1 month after cessation of fludarabine therapy for a B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. The B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder was no longer detectable when the natural killer cell lymphoproliferative disorder persisted. Review of the literature reveals only one reported case of natural killer cell lymphoproliferative disorder of granular lymphocytes associated with a TCR-delta gene rearrangement.

Immunohistochemical detection of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in non-hematopoietic human tissues

Immunohistochemical studies were done on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues to evaluate the specificity of a newly developed monoclonal antibody (9C5) against tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. Sections from 195 specimens were examined, which included 33 types of tissues/organs. These tissues included normal, inflammatory, and neoplastic processes. Neoplastic tissues from 14 patients with hairy cell leukemia served as positive controls. Epitope enhancement was accomplished either by microwave irradiation in citrate buffer or by boiling in water followed by trypsin digestion. Tissues were reacted with monoclonal antibody 9C5 and stained with either the avidin-biotin peroxidase method or the alkaline phosphatase anti-alkaline phosphatase method. The hairy cells of all cases of hairy cell leukemia reacted positively with 9C5. Other positively stained cells included osteoclasts, activated macrophages and giant cells. Immunohistochemical studies with 9C5, when interpreted within the context of the specificity of this antibody, are useful for the diagnosis and assessment of treatment results for hairy cell leukemia. Monoclonal antibody 9C5 also may be useful as a marker for osteoclasts and the activated macrophages and for the diagnosis of disorders involved by these cells.

The Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC) is expressed in endothelial cells of Duffy negative individuals who lack the erythrocyte receptor

The Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC), first identified on erythrocytes, functions not only as a promiscuous chemokine receptor but also as a receptor for the malarial parasite, Plasmodium vivax. The recent finding that DARC is ubiquitously expressed by endothelial cells lining postcapillary venules provides a possible insight into the function of this receptor because this anatomic site is an active interface for leukocyte trafficking. However, the biological significance of DARC is questionable since it has not yet been determined whether individuals lacking the expression of this protein on their erythrocytes (Duffy negative individuals), who are apparently immunologically normal, express the receptor on endothelial cells. However, we report here that DARC is indeed expressed in endothelial cells lining postcapillary venules and splenic sinusoids in individuals who lack the erythrocyte receptor. These findings are based on immunohistochemical, biochemical, and molecular biological analysis of tissues from Duffy negative individuals. We also present data showing that, in contrast to erythrocyte DARC, cells transfected with DARC internalize radiolabeled ligand. We conclude that the DARC may play a critical role in mediating the effects of proinflammatory chemokines on the interactions between leukocyte and endothelial cells since the molecular pathology of the Duffy negative genotype maintains expression on the latter cell type.

Comparison of immunoreactivity of neu oncoprotein in fine-needle aspirates and paraffin-embedded materials

Expression of the neu oncogene has been extensively examined in frozen and paraffin section breast cancers; however, very few studies examine neu oncoprotein oncoprotein expression in fine-needle aspirates. To this effect, we compared the expression of neu oncoprotein in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded breast cancers and the corresponding fine-needle aspirates of these cancers. There was 100% correlation between the expression of neu oncoprotein in the paraffin-embedded breast cancers and the fine-needle aspirates, indicating the suitability of fine-needle aspirates for the expression of neu oncoprotein in breast cancers.

Postcapillary venule endothelial cells in kidney express a multispecific chemokine receptor that is structurally and functionally identical to the erythroid isoform, which is the Duffy blood group antigen

The human erythrocyte chemokine receptor has recently been shown to be identical to the Duffy blood group antigen and is expressed in multiple organs, including kidney. Here we have examined the molecular properties of the renal isoform. Immunoblot analysis of erythrocyte and kidney detergent lysates, with a monoclonal antibody (Fy6) to the Duffy antigen, revealed that the renal isoform had a molecular mass of 43-45 kD, which could be distinguished from that observed in erythroid cells (38-47 kD). Chemical cross-linking of kidney membranes to 125I-melanoma growth stimulatory activity (MGSA) indicated that the renal chemokine receptor had a molecular mass of 38-45 kD. Binding of 125I-labeled MGSA to kidney membranes was competitively inhibited by the addition of unlabeled MGSA, IL-8, regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secrted, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1. Scatchard analysis of MGSA binding showed that the chemokine receptor from renal tissues had a binding affinity of 3.5 nM similar to that observed for the erythroid isoform (5-10 nM). The primary structure of the renal chemokine receptor predicted from the nucleotide sequence of cDNA from renal tissues is identical to that reported for the erythroid isoform. Immunocytochemical staining of kidney with Fy6 localized expression to endothelial cells present in postcapillary venules. These studies implicate the Duffy antigen/chemokine receptor in the complex interactions between postcapillary endothelial cells and granulocytes, which are modulated by pro-inflammatory chemokines.

Topoisomerase II activity involved in cleaving DNA into topological domains is altered in a multiple drug-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cell line

Drug resistance to inhibitors of DNA topoisomerase II can result from qualitative or quantitative alterations in the target enzyme, topoisomerase II, or from perturbations in drug transport that may or may not involve P-glycoprotein. In the present study, a drug-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cell line, SMR16, was selected in the presence of an epipodophyllotoxin (VP-16) and was found to be cross-resistant to all classes of topoisomerase II inhibitors (3-35-fold). The 3-fold level of resistance of these cells to vincristine is likely due to diminished uptake of this drug, and this is not mediated by overexpression of P-glycoprotein. No alteration in transport of VP-16 was observed. Immunoblotting with several polyclonal anti-topoisomerase II antibodies demonstrated that the resistant cells contain approximately two-thirds of the parental enzyme amount. The topoisomerase II catalytic activity present in 0.35 M NaCl nuclear extracts paralleled this decrease. VP-16- and 4'-(9-acridinylamino)methanesulfon-m-anisidide-induced DNA damage, mediated by topoisomerase II, was found to be decreased 10-12-fold in both intact SMR16 cells and nuclei isolated from these cells, when measured by alkaline filter elution. However, the VP-16-induced DNA cleavage activity present in 0.35 M NaCl nuclear extracts of the resistant cells was attenuated only 2-fold, relative to wild-type cells. Homogeneous preparations of the enzyme obtained from resistant cells demonstrated the same cleavage and catalytic activity as purified wild-type topoisomerase II. Analysis by pulse-field gel electrophoresis of the DNA isolated from VM-26- and 4'-(9-acridinylamino)methanesulfon-m-anisidide-treated sensitive and resistant cells demonstrated significantly less conversion of SMR16 chromosomal DNA into 50-150-kilobase DNA fragments. Chinese hamster ovary SMR16 cells are apparently resistant to topoisomerase II poisons because the topoisomerase II that defines the DNA topological domains is either decreased in amount or insensitive to drug action.

Immunohistochemical localization of human immunodeficiency virus p24 antigen in placental tissue

As human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection spreads into the heterosexual population, perinatally acquired HIV infection will increase in incidence, and knowledge of the mechanism of this transfer is important. We have used immunoperoxidase techniques to detect HIV p24 antigen in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded placental tissue from nine known HIV serologically positive mothers. In four of these cases we have detected evidence or viral antigen in placental Hofbauer cells, vascular endothelium, or intermediate trophoblast. The implications for understanding the mode of transfer of infection to the fetus are discussed.

Triggering by ATP of product release by mucous granules of the land slug Ariolimax columbianus

The body wall of the pulmonate land slug Ariolimax columbianus secretes mucus packaged in granules bounded by two closely adjacent membranes. Newly secreted granules rupture in the presence of ATP (approximately 1 microM). This response is apparently mediated by an ATP receptor and is lost by granules held in osmotically balanced saline solutions with relatively low [K+] or [Cl-], but is retained for long periods in solutions with high [K+] and [Cl-]. Rupture by ATP is blocked by indomethacin, furosemide, nigericin, or verapamil, implicating in the ATP-rupturing process a cyclooxygenase product of arachidonic acid as well as activation of K(+)-Cl- transport and efflux of Ca2+ through activated channels according to a proposed electrical potential (proton) gradient. Mechanical stress, exposure to cold (e.g., 1 h at 0 degree C), and pertussis toxin also cause rupture that is blocked by the pharmacological agents that block ATP action. The results suggest that a single basic mechanism causes rupture of the granules, releasing mucins that form the mucous layer protecting the body wall.

Multidrug resistance phenotype associated with selection of an aminopterin resistant dog kidney cell line

A determination of the mechanisms of drug resistance in tumour cells is important for developing strategies to combat such resistance in persons receiving chemotherapy. This report describes a combined cellular, biochemical, and molecular analysis of a dog kidney cell line selected for resistance to increasing levels of the hydrophilic antifolate, aminopterin. Three distinct drug resistance phenotypes were observed in cells exhibiting high levels of aminopterin resistance. Two of these phenotypes were decreased aminopterin accumulation and increased levels of dihydrofolate reductase specific activity. The third drug resistance phenotype was noted initially as cross resistance to a variety of hydrophobic drugs indicating multidrug resistance. Biochemical assays demonstrated reduced accumulation of the hydrophobic fluorescent drug daunorubicin and of 3H-colchicine in the aminopterin resistant cells. These results were then correlated with increased levels of the multidrug resistance (mdr) gene product, P-glycoprotein, and mdr mRNA levels in the aminopterin resistant cells. However, experiments designed to prove a role for expression of the mdr gene in providing a degree of aminopterin resistance were unsuccessful. It is concluded that aminopterin selection in these dog kidney cells resulted in expression of at least three distinct drug resistance phenotypes and that one of these phenotypes, multidrug resistance, represented a secondary response to the aminopterin selection.

Dietary management of swallowing disorders

Two major concerns in the dietary management of the dysphagic patient are to maintain adequate nutrition and to ensure safety during oral feeding. Dysphagic patients require modifications of standard hospital diets. Kitchen or nursing staff must remove from standard diet trays solid foods and liquids that pose swallowing hazards. Training kitchen and nursing staff and removing food are time consuming. It is also hazardous if certain foods are served to dysphagic patients through error or lack of knowledge. In addition, there is risk of inadequate nutrition when food is removed from trays. This paper proposes a four-level diet plan for patients who have difficulty swallowing solids and liquids. These diets gradually advance for patients undergoing treatment to improve swallowing function. The proposed diets save time for kitchen and nursing staff, reduce the risk of aspiration among patients, and serve as models for families as they prepare for discharge and meal planning at home. Diet guidelines are based on recommendations of the American Dietetic Association.

Cerebral tissue pulmonary embolization due to head trauma: a case report with immunohistochemical confirmation

Pulmonary embolization of cerebral tissue as the result of severe head trauma is an uncommon, if not rare, phenomenon, and few cases have been reported in the literature. The authors discuss the case of a 51-year-old male who died six days after suffering extensive head trauma in a motor vehicle collision. At autopsy, white-gray emboli were found in several subsegmental pulmonary arteries. The results of histologic examination with the hematoxylineosin stain gave the impression that the emboli were necrotic cerebral tissue; however, routine special stains for neural tissue produced inconclusive results. Immunohistochemical staining of the emboli with monoclonal mouse anti-human neurofilament protein (Dako Corp., Carpinteria, California) confirmed the cerebral nature of the emboli. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of pulmonary embolization of cerebral tissue confirmed by immunohistochemistry.

Chromosome abnormalities in human epithelial ovarian malignancies

Karyotypic analysis of tumor specimens from 29 patients with untreated epithelial ovarian carcinoma was performed at the University of Kentucky Medical Center. Twenty-three of the twenty-nine tumors had adequate cells for analysis. Seventeen of these tumors exhibited chromosome abnormalities. Chromosome alterations were complex, with an average of seven different abnormal chromosomal patterns per tumor (range 2-14). Chromosomes 1 and 11 were the most commonly involved, being abnormal in 89 and 83% of tumors, respectively. Chromosomes 3 and 7 were also frequently abnormal. In contrast to invasive tumors, alterations in chromosomes 1 and 11 were not seen in the two tumors of borderline malignant potential. Evidence for DNA amplification of IGF2, Ha-ras-1, and c-ets was not observed. Amplification of the c-erbB-2 oncogene was present in two tumors. These findings indicate that multiple karyotypic abnormalities occur in untreated epithelial ovarian malignancies, with chromosomes 1 and 11 being the most frequently abnormal. These data also suggest that alterations of these chromosomes may be associated with the biologically aggressive behavior of frankly invasive ovarian tumors.

The detection of Epstein-Barr virus in hairy cell leukemia cells by in situ hybridization

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several B-cell lymphoid proliferations. Because patients with hairy cell leukemia (HCL) have a high incidence of seropositivity for EBV antigens, we studied the cells of HCL for evidence of EBV infection using in situ hybridization techniques. EBV mRNA was detected in the tumor cells in four of six cases using a radiolabeled RNA probe. Confirmatory serologic data were available in three cases in which the viral DNA was detected and in one negative case. Our results suggest that EBV infection may have a pathogenetic role in this disorder.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the gastrointestinal tract. An evaluation of paraffin section immunostaining

Although the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the most common site of primary extranodal lymphomas, the lineage of these tumors has been controversial. The authors used paraffin-reactive antibodies detecting markers of B-, T-, histiocytic, and epithelial cells to study 34 non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the GI tract for which unequivocal frozen-section immunophenotypine was available as a control to determine whether these antibodies are reliable in the study of these tumors. Frozen-section studies revealed 31 tumors of B-cell origin and three T-cell tumors. Paraffin-reactive antibodies confirmed B-cell lineage in 28 of the 31 cases, with equivocal results in the remaining three. Only one of the T-cell lymphomas was identified in paraffin studies. Our results indicate that paraffin-reactive antibodies can reliably identify most B-cell lymphomas in the GI tract but may be unreliable in the detection of lymphomas of T-cell origin.

Nonsecretory multiple myeloma in a 26-year-old man with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, presenting with multiple extramedullary plasmacytomas and osteolytic bone disease

High grade B-cell lymphoma and leukemia have been well described in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Malignant transformation of more differentiated lymphoid cells has not been well described in these patients. We report a 26-year-old man with AIDS-associated multiple myeloma, who had a highly unusual presentation and clinical course. A review of the literature indicates that monoclonal gammopathy in patients seropositive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is common. Multiple myeloma and extramedullary plasmacytomas, diseases that are extraordinarily rare in young persons, are now being reported in patients with AIDS and should be added to the list of neoplastic diseases now associated with HIV infection.

Paraffin section markers for Reed-Sternberg cells. A comparative study of peanut agglutinin, Leu-M1, LN-2, and Ber-H2

Hodgkin's disease (HD) is sometimes difficult to distinguish from non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, and a reliable marker for Reed-Sternberg and related (R-S) cells in paraffin sections would be useful. Ninety-one cases of HD with PNA, anti-Leu M1, and LN-2, and 90 cases with Ber-H2 were studied. The staining results were evaluated independently. R-S cells stained positively with one or more of the reagents in all cases. PNA staining was positive in 78 cases (85.7%); Leu M1, 63 (69.2%); LN-2, 71 (78.0%); and Ber-H2, 80 cases (88.9%). Positively stained cells were readily recognized in 71 cases (91.0%) of PNA+, 51 (80.9%) of Leu M1+, and 51 (71.8%) of LN-2+ and 71 (88.7%) of Ber-H2+ cases; the cells were found only after careful search in the remaining cases. Sixteen cases of peripheral T-cell lymphoma (large cell type, ten; mixed, five; unclassifiable, one) were also stained. Tumor cells did not stain with PNA or anti-Leu M1 in any of the 16 cases but did stain positively with LN-2 in four and with Ber-H2 in five. Thus, the detection rate of R-S cells was the highest with Ber-H2, closely followed by PNA. PNA, however, stained the largest number of R-S cells per case, and the results were least affected by the type of fixative employed. Staining of peripheral T-cell lymphoma appeared to be nil or extremely rare with PNA and Leu M1, whereas it was not uncommon with Ber-H2 and LN-2. In conclusion, to facilitate the detection of R-S cells in paraffin sections, the application of a panel of three markers, PNA, Leu M1, and Ber-H2, appears to be necessary at this point in time.

Iron binding proteins and their roles in the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta (L.)

Manduca sexta larvae accumulate large amounts of iron during their larval feeding period. When 59Fe was fed to 5th instar larvae, it was evenly distributed among the hemolymph, gut and carcass until the cessation of feeding. By pupation 95% of the labelled iron was found in the fat body. In the adult a significant portion of this iron was found in flight muscle. Studies of the hemolymph disclosed two iron-containing proteins. The first was composed of a single polypeptide chain of 80 kD, containing one atom of iron. This protein bound ionic iron in vitro and was able to transfer this iron to ferritin when incubated with fat body in vitro. Therefore, it appeared to serve a transport function. The second protein had a molecular weight of 490 kD with subunits of 24 and 26 kD and contained 220 micrograms of iron/mg protein. Its chemical and ultrastructural characteristics were those of ferritin. These studies demonstrate the presence of both a transport protein and a unique circulating ferritin in Manduca sexta, the latter serving a storage function during development and possibly also a transport function.

Processes in formation of mucus by the body wall of Ariolimax columbianus

The mucus secreted by the body surface of the terrestrial pulmonate slug, Ariolimax columbianus, is a variable mix of products of the giant mucous and channel cells of the skin. An in vitro sac preparation allows the study of control and products of these two cell types. Mucins in membrane-bound granules are released by the mucous cells on mechanical or electrical stimulation of the skin. The product of the channel cells is a blood ultrafiltrate, modified by reabsorption of Na+ and Cl- ions and transfer into the fluid of K+ and HCO3- ions (processes of secretion inhibited by ouabain, amiloride and furosemide; and by other epithelial blocking agents). Rates of secretion can be increased or decreased by gastropod neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, serotonin, and others), and by prostaglandin E2 and indomethacin.

Crystalline deposits in ascites in a case of cryoglobulinemia

Crystalline inclusions were observed on routine cytologic studies of ascitic fluid from a patient with exudative ascites of undetermined cause. These inclusions were polymorphic, but frequently appeared as slender needles. They were seen most often in histiocytes and, less frequently, in mesothelial cells and plasma cells. Extracellular crystals were also seen. The crystals were also present in biopsy specimens of peritoneum, liver and bone marrow. Special studies by polarizing light microscopy, cytochemistry, electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry suggested that the crystals were most probably immunoglobulins synthesized by plasma cells. Some were excreted extracellularly and phagocytized by histiocytes. Further studies indicated that the patient had an indolent plasma-cell dyscrasia, resulting in excessive production of a monoclonal immunoglobulin. The immunoglobulin may have crystallized and become deposited in tissues, inciting chronic inflammatory changes. Massive deposits of crystals in the peritoneum, with the resultant inflammatory reaction, was possibly the cause of the formation of ascites.

Hemoglobin C in association with hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin

Hemoglobin C and hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH) are an uncommon combination of hemoglobinopathies. Several tests are needed to verify this condition, among them hemoglobin electrophoresis and Kleihauer-Betke staining of a peripheral blood smear. Family studies are useful in delineating the genetics of the hemoglobinopathy but could not be performed in our case. In more confusing cases or with an unusual subtype, more extensive testing may be required. HPFH, by itself, is without clinical manifestations. It may be confused with other conditions; therefore, its presence in patients with hematologic symptoms requires more precise definition of the hemoglobin abnormality.

Soft tissue tumor with prominent leptomeric fibrils and complexes

A recurrent soft tissue tumor from the groin in a 37-year-old male is described. The tumor cells contain many leptomeric structures, both fibrils and complexes, but none of the other characteristic features of striated muscle: alternating parallel thick and thin myofilaments with Z-line material. A review of one rhabdomyoma and six rhabdomyosarcomas demonstrates that leptomeric structures are present in large amounts in the rhabdomyoma but are very infrequent in only three of the six rhabdomyosarcomas. A careful search for leptomeric structures is indicated when the ultrastructural diagnosis of either rhabdomyoma or rhabdomyosarcoma is being considered.

A mono-sited transferrin from a representative deuterostome: the ascidian Pyura stolonifera (subphylum Urochordata)

An iron-binding protein has been found in the plasma of Pyura stolonifera. This protein has a molecular weight of about 41,000 +/- 2,000 and binds 1 mol iron/mol protein. The absorption maxima are lambda = 280 and lambda = 429 nm (E429/E280 = 0.044). Bicarbonate is bound concomitantly with high affinity and is necessary for optimal color formation at lambda = 429 nm. The protein showed a negligible exchange of iron with human apotransferrin under physiologic conditions over two hours. Upon incubation with rat reticulocytes, the protein reacts with membrane receptors for transferrins, and the protein, with its iron, is transported intracellularly where the iron is incorporated into heme. The 59Fe protein, after intravenous injection, disappears rapidly from the plasma and is excreted largely in the urine, with a substantial fraction present in the kidney and another large fraction present in the gut. These findings established the protein as a "transferrin" and support the concept that the larger transferrin molecule in vertebrates, with two iron-binding sites, resulted from a gene duplication.

Immunological and biological characteristics of the vasotocin-like activity in the head ganglia of gastropod molluscs

Extracts of cerebral and pleuro-pedal ganglia from two terrestrial slugs, Ariolimax columbianus and Limax maximus, and from the marine opisthobranch, Aplysia californica, contain immunoreactivity resembling that of a vasotocin or vasopressin. Radioimmunoassays using several antisera indicate that the immunoreactivity is not due to vasotocin, vasopressin, or any other known naturally occurring neurohypophyseal peptide. Immunoreactivity of extracts on a relatively nonspecific vasopressin antiserum is well correlated with activity on antidiuretic assays on rats. Both immunoreactivity and antidiuretic activity are adsorbed onto bovine neurophysin affinity columns. Thus these extracts contain one or more peptides that closely resemble the vertebrate antidiuretic hormones, vasotocin and vasopressin, both immunologically and pharmacologically. The amounts of immunoreactivity and antidiuretic activity in ganglion extracts do not appear to change during dehydration and rehydration. Although both ganglionic extracts and vasotocin stimulate exudation of fluid across the slug body wall, the present experiments provide no evidence that the vasotocin-like material(s) in these ganglia may participate as neurotransmitters or hormones in the regulation of fluid balance. This remains an attractive hypothesis.

The channel cell of the terrestrial slug Ariolimax columbianus (Stylommatophora, Arionidae)

Studies were carried out to identify the route by which macromolecules and large volumes of fluid traverse the skin of terrestrial gastropods. Electron micrographs of the skin of the banana slug Ariolimax columbianus demonstrated that carbon particles can enter large, specialized cells and pass thence to the exterior. These cells, which are termed channel cells, range up to 500 micron in length; they reach from the external surface of the skin to deep within the subepithelial interstitium. At the light-microscope level they show a large central channel or reservoir apparently filled with homogeneous fluid; after injection of ink into the body cavity this central channel becomes ink-filled. Electron micrographs show cisternae of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, opening from the cell surface and occasionally traversing the entire cytoplasmic layer. The neurohormone arginine vasotocin stimulates fluid and particle movement through the channel cell; this response is inhibited by norepinephrine. Fluid output is dependent on the presence of a transwall hydrostatic pressure gradient of about 7 torr or above, as well as on activation of the channel cells.

Components of mucus of terrestrial slugs (Gastropoda)

Mucous secretion by the body wall of the terrestrial slugs (Ariolimax columbianus, Arionidae; and other species) was found to involve at least three distinct stages--release of vesicles, formation of granules, and organization of strands. Mucus is stored intracellularly in membrane-bound vesicles, and these are shed intact from the mucous cells. Disruption of the vesicle membrane, with release of contents, can be effected by endogenous lytic agent(s), as well as by exogenous surfactants, lipid solvents, or hypotonic media. Thereupon 1-micron granules are released. These may be stable, or they may change to material that is finely granular or in the form of strands; the transition to strands is facilitated by shear stress exerted through the fluid containing the mucous components. Lectins organize, or are organized with, the strands, as evidenced by agglutination of erythrocytes on them. Mucous formation, as seen in the living slug, differs markedly from the one-step process of exocytosis of fluid mucus inferred from studies of mucous membranes fixed for ultrastructural investigation.

Phosphoglycopeptide, a major constituent of the spermatophoric plasma of the octopus (Octopus dofleini martini)

A phosphoglycopeptide, accounting for approximately 90% of the characteristically high content of acid-soluble organically-bound phosphorus in the octopus spermatophoric plasma (4 mg P/ml), was identified. Electrophoretic and chromatographic purification, followed by chemical and enzymic hydrolysis, yielded D-galactose phosphate as a degradation product. The galactose and peptide moieties of the compound were linked via a phosphoryl rather than a glycosidic linkage but the peptide was devoid of aromatic amino acids.

Cytology of the renal appendages of Nautilus (Cephalopoda, Tetrabranchiata)

The renal appendages of tetrabranchiate cephalopods, Nautilus pompilius (L.) and Nautilus macromphalus (G.B. Sow.), were studied using light- and electron-microscopical methods. The appendages, homologous to the renal appendages of dibranchiate cephalopods, possess in both species a folded transporting epithelium characterized by a secreting brush border and a high content of mitochondria and lysosome-like dense bodies as well as a basal labyrinth, and are separated from the blood lacunae by a multilayered lamina basalis. In the extracellular crypt-like infoldings of the epithelium, numerous concentric stratified concrements are found. The results strengthen the hypothesis that these concrements represent mineral-storage structures only found in calcium shell-supporting species within the class Cephalopoda.

Separation of fuchsin analogs using thin layer chromatography

The four analogs comprising basic fuchsin have been separated using thin layer chromatography (TLC). Mixtures spotted on reverse phase TLC plates were developed with a solution of 25% methanol, 10% ammonium hydroxide, and 65% distilled water. The Rf values of the analogs were for pararosaniline, 0.54; rosaniline, 0.41; magenta II, 0.31; new fuchsin, 0.19.

Experimental transient bacteraemias in human subjects with clinically healthy gingivae

Thirty-six subjects with no evidence of clinical gingival inflammation underwent a standardized toothbrushing procedure. Blood specimens, obtained from a vein in the antecubital fossa during the last 30 seconds of brushing, were cultured under aerobic and stringent anaerobic conditions. Three subjects exhibited detectable bacteraemias, Propionibacterium sp. being isolated from two of the subjects, while Actinomyces sp., Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mitis were isolated from the third. The implications of these results are discussed.

Experimental transient bacteraemias in human subjects with varying degrees of plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation

Ninety-six subjects were assigned to one of four groups according to severity of gingival inflammation and bacterial plaque accumulation on the teeth. Following a standardized toothbrushing procedure, blood specimens from a vein in the antecubital fossa were cultured under aerobic and stringent anaerobic conditions. The percentage of positive cultures increased significantly with increasing severity of gingival inflammation, as did the number of species of organisms isolated. Thirty different microbial species indigenous to the oral cavity, including many strict anaerobes, were recovered. The study has implications for standards of oral health which might be considered necessary in patients with congenital or acquired endocardial defects or cardiovascular prostheses.

D(--)Lactic acid formation and D(--)lactate dehydrogenase in octopus spermatozoa

Spermatozoa of Octopus dofleini martini produce D (–)lactic acid in the course of their metabolism, and they also possess a highly active D (–)-lactate dehydrogenase. This distinguishes the octopus spermatozoa from mammalian spermatozoa which form L(+)-lactic acid and have a L ( + )-lactate dehydrogenase. The D (–)lactate dehydrogenase has been extracted from the octopus testis. It was shown to be a D (–)lactate: NAD oxidoreductase with electrophoretic behaviour different from the D (–) -lactate dehydrogenases present in either the horseshoe crab muscles or in Lactobacillus leichmannii .

D(--)-lactic acid and d(--)-lactate dehydrohgenase in octopus spermatozoa

The spermatozoa of Octopus dofleini martini produce anaerobically D(-)-lactic acid and possess a very active D(-)-lactate dehydrogenase. In this respect, while resembling certain microorganisms, they differ strikingly from mammalian spermatozoa which produce L(+)-lactic acid and contain L(+)-lactate dehydrogenase.

The occurrence of carnitine and glycerylphosphorylcholine in the octopus spermatophore

Carnitine and glycerylphosphorylcholine, two well-known constituents of the mammalian epididymis, are shown to be equally characteristic of another sperm-storing organ, namely the spermatophore of a cephalopod mollusc, Octopus dofleini martini .