On the Ihara expression for the generalized weighted zeta function

We consider the generalized weighted zeta function for a finite digraph, and show that it has the Ihara expression, a determinant expression of graph zeta functions, with a certain specified definition for inverse arcs. A finite digraph in this paper allows multi-arcs or multi-loops

Scanning Electron Microscopy of Intracellular Organelles in the Young Odontoblasts of Rats

Intracellular structures of the odontoblasts were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using a modified AODO (aldehyde prefixed-osmium-DMSO-osmium) method. Well-developed flattened and layered rER (rough endoplasmic reticulum), paved with its associated ribosomes on its outer surface, were clearly observed in the odontoblast. Branched tubular mitochondria with nodules and swollen endings, interposing between and passing through the fenestrated layered rER, were demonstrated in the functional cells. Oblique and cross-sections of both the rER system and tubular mitochondria showed orthodox configurations similar to those usually described in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies. Many finger-like projections constructing the cristae directing towards the inner mitochondrial chamber were observed, and external chamber extending into the tubular cristae was also demonstrated

Induction of Autoimmunity in a Bleomycin-Induced Murine Model of Experimental Systemic Sclerosis: An Important Role for CD4+ T Cells

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the excessive deposition of collagen in the skin or other organs and the production of specific antinuclear antibodies (ANAs). Recently, bleomycin (BLM)-induced experimental scleroderma was reported in a murine model. Here, we present further development of this model and suggest that it is appropriate for the analysis of human diffuse type SSc. BLM was injected into the shaved backs of C3H or BALB/c mice (100μg/mouse) 5 days per week for 3 weeks. Skin fibrosis was confirmed and pathological changes were seen in the lower part of the esophagus and stomach similar to those seen in SSc. The sera from these mice had autoantibodies specific to the damaged tissues and ANAs. Transfer of CD4+ T cells from BLM-treated BALB/c mice induced the same pathological changes and antibody production in untreated-BALB/c nude mice. Hence, tissue fibrosis and the production of ANAs are probably associated with CD4+ T-cell activity in this model. In conclusion, this model will be valuable for investigating the relationship between tissue fibrosis and abnormalities of the immune system

Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Diseases with Different Types of Ventilatory Defects: Relationships between Pulmonary Function Parameters and Exercise Torelance

This prospective cohort study was conducted to determine which pulmonary function parameters are useful in the prediction of exercise torelance and exercise-induced hypoxemia (EIH) among patients with chronic pulmonary diseases with different types of ventilatory defects. Fifty one patients with chronic pulmonary diseases who underwent comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation for periods of 4 to 8 weeks, and who were classified as to different types of ventilatory defects; obstructive, restrictive and mixed type based on their pulmonary functions. All patients were measured for pulmonary function parameters, 6-minute walking distance (6MD) and the activity of daily living (ADL) before and after pulmonary rehabilitation. After pulmonary rehabilitation, the patients demonstrated a significant (p<0.001) increase in 6 MD and ADL scores for all types of ventilatory defects. In the relationship between 6 MD and pulmonary function parameters, the forced expiratory volume in 1 sec. (FEV1.0) was significantly correlated with 6 MD for all types of ventilatory defect. Vital capacity (VC) and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) correlated with 6MD in the obstructive and the mixed ventilatory defects, and PaO2 correlated with 6 MD relative to mixed ventilatory defects. In the relationship between EIH and pulmonary function parameters, VC significantly correlated with EIH relative to restrictive ventilatory defects. FEV1.0 and MVV correlated with EIH relative to obstructive ventilatory defects. Our present data suggest that specific pulmonary function parameters which can be correlated with 6 MD and EIH for different types of ventilatory defects, may be useful in terms of devising pulmonary rehabilitation protocols for these patients

1006-44 A Prognostic Factor in Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Platelet-Dependent Thrombin Generation in Patients with CAD

We examined platelet-dependent thrombin generation in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Thrombin generation was measured according to the method of Aronson et al (Circulation, 1992). 0.5ml of platelet rich plasma (PRP, 15×104/ml) was prepared, and 40mM of CaCl, was added to start clotting. 0.5mM of S-2238 was added to each sample in a microtiter plate every 10min, and the plate was read kinetically at a wavelength of 405nm on a microtiter plate reader. The patients with CAD devided into 3 groups.Thrombin generation 20 min after CaCI2, additon is:Control (n=12)48±10(mOD)Stable angina (SAP) (n=15)79±27Unstable angina (UAP) (n=15)**562±155Acute myocardial infarct (AMI) (n=43)**440±269**p&lt;0.01 compared to SAPThe patients with UAP and AMI showed marked increase in thrombin generation compared to SAP and control subjects. AMI patients with severe coronary artery disease (Group B) showed higher levels of thrombin generation (Group A, Gensini score&lt;32: 382±248 mOD vs Group B, Gensini score&gt; 31: 578±238, P&lt;0.05). LVEF of group A is significantly higher than that of group B (P &lt; 0.05). These findings indicate that patients with UAP and AMI have an evidence of hypercoagulable states and that platelet-dependent thrombin generation may play an important role in pathophysiology of UAP or AMI, and may be a prognostic factor in CAD