Transforming growth factor-beta modulates the expression of osteoblast and chondroblast phenotypes in vitro.

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) has been shown to induce chondrogenesis by embryonic rat mesenchymal cells (Seyedin et al., J. Biol.

Differentiation of rat mesenchymal cells by cartilage-inducing factor. Enhanced phenotypic expression by dihydrocytochalasin B.

The role of cell shape in chondrogenesis was studied by using rat mesenchymal cells cultured with cartilage-inducing factor (CIF). Here we report that enhanced expression of chondroblastic markers by induced cells was attained by culturing cells in monolayer in the presence of dihydrocytochalasin B (DHCB). This effect was optimal at 3 microM DHCB and was apparent after 3 days in culture.

Evaluation of recurrent duodenal ulcer after vagotomy-pyloroplasty.

Seventy-five antrectomies were performed for recurrent duodenal ulcer after 1,515 vagotomy and drainage procedures. Eighty-four per cent of proved recurrences at reoperation were associated with positive acid secretory tests. Seventy-eight per cent of recurrences occurred in patients with intact vagal trunks.