[RAB5A, a gene possibly related to metastasis of human carcinoma of the lung and stomach]

OBJECTIVE

To study and isolate tumor metastasis-related genes, and to explore the molecular basis of metastasis of lung and gastric carcinoma.

METHODS

Using mRNA differential display technique, cDNA cloning and sequencing, RT-PCR, Northern blot and immunocytochemical methods, genes differentially expressed between human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines AGZY83-a and Anip973 were detected. Anip973 was isolated from AGZY83-a with much higher metastatic potential than the parent line.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in gene expression between the two cell lines. RAB5A was one of the genes differentially expressed in Anip973 cells. Its gene product is a GTP-binding protein. Paraffin sections of 33 lung carcinoma and 47 gastric carcinoma specimens were examined immunohistochemically. Expression of RAB5A was positive in 87.9% of NSCLC and 91.5% of gastric cancer specimens examined (P < 0.05), and correlated with their metastatic potential and differentiation degree of gastric carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

RAB5A is possibly a metastasis-related gene.

[Plasma level of glucagon in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension during operation of portacaval shunts]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the plasma level of glucagon in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension during operation of portacaval shunts.

METHODS

Plasma level of glucagon in the portal venous, peripheral venous and arterial blood in cirrhotic patients (n = 16) and control patients (n = 16) was measured by radioimmunoassay respectively.

RESULTS

The glucagon ratio (pg/ml) of the hepatic cirrhosis group before, during after operation 3 days after operation, 7 days after operation was observed portal venous blood: (189.2 +/- 58.7) pg/ml, (196.1 +/- 54.2) pg/ml vs. (101.9 +/- 44.8) pg/ml, (98.2 +/- 34.1) pg/ml (P < 0.01); peripheral venous blood (184.1 +/- 48.2) pg/ml, (187.5 +/- 42.8) pg/ml vs. (102.4 +/- 34.7) pg/ml, (95.2 +/- 24.9) pg/ml (P < 0.01); arterial blood: (186.3 +/- 51.3) pg/ml, (183.5 +/- 54.2) pg/ml vs. (103.4 +/- 36.3) pg/ml, (93.9 +/- 30.6) pg/ml (P < 0.01). The portal vein pressure was positively correlated to the plasma level of glucagon in portal venous blood of cirrhosis (r = 0.57, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglucagonemia may be caused by the decreased glucagon metabolism in cirrhotic liver and hypersecretion of pancreas and the gastrointestinal tract. Hyperglucagonemia may be amended after portacaval shunts.

[Effect of low dose gamma-irradiation and cigarette smoking on growth and reflex behavior in mice]

Pregnant mice were exposed to different level of gamma-irradiation(60Co 0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 Gy) and water solutions containing different contents of substance from cigarette smoke(0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 cigarette/mouse). Results showed that the effect of low dose gamma-irradiation and high concentration cigarette smoke substance could delay the appearance of four physiological markers (eye opening, pinna detachment, hair growth and tooth growth) and the acquisition of four reflexes(surface righting, air righting, virual placing and auditory orienting). A significant combined effect was also observed.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis and comparison of stress distribution in overdentures supported with bar attachments and telescopic crowns

OBJECTIVE

To determine which one of the overdenture (OD) retainers was more beneficial to the abutments--the bar or the telescopic crown--and if a tooth could be used as an OD abutment when the supporting bone decreased to half of the root.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The three-dimensional finite element method was used to investigate the stress distribution in a mandible with an overdenture supported by the roots of two canines. The two teeth were either connected with a bar attachment or restored with telescopic crowns, and were then restored with a complete overdenture. For each type of superstructure, the influence of bone height around the roots (no alveolar resorption and resorption to half of the root length) was analyzed under three loading conditions.

RESULTS

The most extreme stress values were located at the alveolar ridge crest of the bone around the root of the abutment. In the case of anterior loading, the largest compressive stress (LCS) in telescopic crown overdenture (TOD) was lower. When loaded posteriorly there was no obvious difference between bar attachment overdenture (BOD) and TOD. At the alveolar ridge crest around the root of the abutment, the stress value in the model with decreased bone level was higher than in the model with normal bone level, but the range was not significant.

CONCLUSION

1. In terms of stress in the alveolar bone, complete overdenture over telescopic crowns is more convenient than over bar attachments. 2. Stress increases as the height of the bone around the roots decreases, but the increment is less than 30%. It is important for an abutment with bone resorption to perform root amputation to obtain an acceptable crown/root ratio.

[Spectroscopic assay, chemical modification and activity of three kinds of polyoses]

Infrared spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of chitosan, pachyman and amorphalls mannan were studied. The difference among the infrared spectra of chitosan under different conditions was disscused. The modification of Methylolation of the three kinds of polyoses was made and the relationship between the chemical modification and the antitumor activity was also studied.

[New diterpenoids, isodoternifolins A and B, from Isodon ternifolius]

Two new diterpenoids, named isodoternifolin A and B, together with seven known compounds were isolated from the ethanol extract of dried stems and leaves of Isodon ternifolius (D. Don) Kudo. Their structures were determined as 7 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 11 alpha, 15 beta-triacetoxy-7 alpha, 20-epoxyentkaur-16-ene (1) and 6 beta, 7 beta, 15 beta-trihydroxy-11 alpha-acetoxy-7 alpha, 20-epoxy-entkaur-16-ene (2) by chemical and spectral evidence.

[Establishment and discretization of human torso computer images for ECG simulation]

The establishment and discretization of human torso computer image is an important aspect in studying of ECG simulation. A rapid and effective method is presented in this paper, which establishes and discretes image of human torso exactly by curve fitting and by introducing concept of "nihility point". It also has some value for solving problem of discreting field region in numerical calculation of electromagnetic field.

[Study on induced mutagenesis interaction of the high temperature and/or cigarette smoke]

The study aim is to research the genotoxicity and interaction of the High temperature and/or cigarette smoke. The micronucleus of human lymphocytes and bone marrow in mice were observed following heat stress and/or watersoluble cigarette smoke substances. The results indicated that the high temperature (40 degrees C, 41 degrees C and 42 degrees C for 5 min, respectively) significantly induced micronuclei in human lymphocytes in vitro (P < 0.01). A significant synergistic effect of the high temperature and cigarette was found. When high temperature combining with high concentration cigarette smoke (1.0-2.0 cigarette/20 g/d, for 10 d) was used, a significant induction and interaction (P < 0.01) on micronucleus of the bone marrow were also observed. The results indicated that high temperature substanance aberrations would be enhanced when the high temperature combines with cigarette smoke.

2D CP/MAS 13C isotropic chemical shift correlation established by 1H spin diffusion

A new 2D solid-state CP/MAS 13C NMR exchange experiment for through-space isotropic chemical shift correlation is proposed and demonstrated. Through-space correlation is established via a second cross polarization from 13C to 1H and subsequent 1H spin diffusion. A third cross polarization results in the final 13C-13C isotropic chemical shift correlation. The 1H spin diffusion time is a variable parameter allowing different mean square magnetization displacements to be probed. Experimental results on mixtures of differently 13C-labeled alanine and polyethylene indicate that this site-selective 2D technique can be used to characterize domain sizes and proximities over a wide range of length scales (1-200 nm) in solids such as polymers or biological materials.

[Effects of taurine and extraction of cristata L on serum Zn, Cu and Ca in rats]

Forty rats fed with basic diets were randomly divided into 4 groups. NG group were fed with basic diets. The other three groups were fed with high fat diets. The rats in TA group and EC group were given TA 100 mg/kg or EC 100 mg/kg each day respectively in addition to high fat diet for 8 weeks. The results showed that taurine and extraction of cristata L not only increased the level of red cell SOD and the content of serum Zn (P < 0.05), but also decreased the contents of TC, MDA in the wall of artery and decreased the level of serum LDH significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). TA and EC increased significantly the content of serum Cu and decreased the ratio of serum Cu to Zn in the high fat diet rats (P < 0.01), and decreased the contents of serum Ca also. The results indicate that TA and EC may play some role in lipid metabolism and inhibit atherosclerosis by regulating the levels of Zn, Cu and Ca in rats.

[Reversal effect of Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline, on adriamycin or vincristine resistance in human cancer cells in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

Reversal effect of Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline, on the resistance of human cancer cells to adriamycin or vincristine was studied in vitro.

METHOD

In an in vitro culture system of human cancer cells MCF-7 and its adriamycin-resistant line MCF-7/Ad or KB and its vincristine-resistant line KBv200, the sensitivity(IC50) of the resistant cell lines to adriamycin or vincristine was evaluated with a MTT assay.

RESULT

IC50 value of adriamycin or vincristine in combination with Ys-96 at a concentration of 1.00 mumol/L against MCF-7/Ad or KBv200 was found to be close to that of adriamycin alone or vincristine alone against the sensitive cell line MCF-7 or KB.

CONCLUSION

The drug resistance of MCF-7/Ad or KBv200 could be essentially reversed by Ys-96 at a concentration of 1.00 mumol/L.

[Effect of somatostatin on portal and hepatic hemodynamics and portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of somatostatin on hepatic and portal hemodynamics and portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHOD

Colorful doppler ultrasonography was used to measure the diameter and maximum hemokinetic velocity of portal vein and hepatic vein before and after intravenous administration somatostatin, and thus their hemokinetic volume was calculated respectively. Among 15 surgical patients, changes of the portal venous pressure were observed via a catheter before and after the administration of somatostatin.

RESULT

One hour and 1.5 hour after the administration, the pressure of portal vein significantly decreased from 2.77 +/- 0.26 kPa to 2.42 +/- 0.27 kPa and 2.40 +/- 0.27 kPa, respectively (P < 0.01). The systolic pressure, diastolic pressure and heart rate showed no significant changes. After the administration, the sectional area of portal vein decreased by 7.28% but without significance. The maximum hemokinetic velocity of portal vein significantly decreased by 18.96% (from 19.72 +/- 7.75 cm/sec to 15.98 +/- 7.26 cm/sec, P < 0.01). The mean total hemokinetic volume increased from 1786.22 +/- 926.37 ml/min to 1836.17 +/- 844.24 ml/min, but without significance (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Continuous instillation of somatostatin via peripheral vein can decrease the portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. The mechanism may be the decrease of hemokinetic volume caused by the decrease of hemokinetic velocity of the portal vein.

[Histamine-1 and -2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To study histamine-1 and histamine-2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHOD

Light autoradiography was used.

RESULT

The density of histamine-2 (H-2) receptors (cirrhotic patients/controls) in hepatocytes was 168.4 +/- 22.6/511.9 +/- 37.6 (P < 0.01), in hepatic vein 238.8 +/- 40.7/313.0 +/- 52.4 (P < 0.01), in hepatic artery 55.6 +/- 7.1/175.4 +/- 26.1 (P < 0.01), and in portal vein 52.0 +/- 5.4/166.4 +/- 17.7 (P < 0.01). The density of histamine-1 receptors in hepatocytes, hepatic vein, hepatic artery and portal vein was not statistically changed between cirrhotic patients and controls (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The density of H-2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients decreased significantly.

The c-kit receptor and its possible signaling transduction pathway in mouse spermatozoa

The presence and role of the c-kit protein was investigated in the mature sperm of the mouse. The c-kit monoclonal antibody (mAb) ACK2 reacted specifically with the acrosomal region and the principal piece of fixed noncapacitated sperm but did not react with the acrosome region in acrosome-reacted sperm. ACK2 significantly inhibited the acrosome reaction; this inhibition was relieved by the calcium ionophore A23187. The kit ligand stem cell factor (SCF) significantly increased the percentage of sperm undergoing acrosome reaction. This increase was partially inhibited by the calcium channel inhibitor (verapamil), the PI3k inhibitor (wortmannin), and the PLC inhibitor (U-73122). ACK2 predominantly recognized c-kit proteins of 33, 48, and 150 kDa by Western blotting of mouse sperm extracts. The 48- and 150-kDa protein bands were released into the media and tyrosine autophosphorylated at low basal levels during acrosome reaction. On stimulation with SCF, the level of c-kit phosphorylation increased significantly. These findings suggest that c-kit is present in mature sperm, and its binding to SCF may result in the activation of PLC gamma 1 and PI3K, leading to receptor autophosphorylation, and ultimately may play a role in capacitation and/or the acrosome reaction.

[Chemical constituents of Isodon pharicus (Prain) Murata]

Two compounds were isolated from Isodon pharicus. Their structures were elucidated as 11 beta, 13 alpha, 15 alpha-trihydroxy-entkaur-16-en-3 alpha-(beta-D-glucoside) (named isodopharicin F) and eugenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside by spectral data and chemical evidence.

Expression and function of the c-kit proto-oncogene protein in mouse sperm

The presence and role of the c-kit protein were examined in mature sperm of the mouse. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the c-kit protein were used to perform immunohistochemical staining, electron microscopy studies, and Western blot analysis. The acrosomal region of both fixed and unfixed noncapacitated sperm stained with the antibodies. No acrosomal staining was noted in acrosome-reacted (AR) sperm. Electron microscopy studies demonstrated immunogold label on the plasma membrane of the acrosome and confirmed the lack of binding following the acrosome reaction. Proteins corresponding to 33 kDa, 48 kDa, and 150 kDa were detected by the antibodies utilizing Western blot analysis. The 48-kDa and 150-kDa proteins were released into the media during sperm capacitation, and release from the acrosome was dependent upon the acrosome reaction. The mAbs significantly inhibited the acrosome reaction and increased sperm agglutination. Monoclonal antibody ACK1 significantly inhibited the motility of the sperm, whereas mAbs ACK2 and NCL-ckit did not. These results suggest that c-kit-related proteins are present in mature sperm and may play a role in capacitation and/or the acrosome reaction.

Role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group Rickettsiae

To evaluate the roles of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes in immunity to disseminated endothelial infection with Rickettsia conorii (Malish 7 strain), these T cell subsets were depleted or adoptively transferred into subsequently infected C3H/HeN mice. CD4 T lymphocyte-depleted and sham-depleted mice underwent a similar course of illness with a sublethal rickettsial dose, cleared the infection by day 10, and recovered on days 10 to 11. In contrast, mice depleted of CD8 lymphocytes or CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes died or remained persistently infected through day 15 with the ordinarily sublethal dose. Endothelium was the major site of rickettsial persistence, including sites in the vital organs, brain, and lungs of CD8 lymphocyte-depleted mice. In nondepleted animals, CD8 T lymphocytes were observed in apposition to endothelial cells on day 10 at the time of rickettsial clearance. Adoptive transfer of immune CD4 or CD8 T lymphocytes protected mice against a lethal dose of R. conorii in the disseminated endothelial target model. Nonimmune CD4 or CD8 lymphocytes and immune lymphocytes that had passed through columns that depleted both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes failed to protect mice against R. conorii. These studies represent the first analysis of the role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group rickettsiae and the first demonstration that clearance of spotted fever group rickettsiae from endothelial cells requires immune CD8 T lymphocytes.

Role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group Rickettsiae

To evaluate the roles of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes in immunity to disseminated endothelial infection with Rickettsia conorii (Malish 7 strain), these T cell subsets were depleted or adoptively transferred into subsequently infected C3H/HeN mice. CD4 T lymphocyte-depleted and sham-depleted mice underwent a similar course of illness with a sublethal rickettsial dose, cleared the infection by day 10, and recovered on days 10 to 11. In contrast, mice depleted of CD8 lymphocytes or CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes died or remained persistently infected through day 15 with the ordinarily sublethal dose. Endothelium was the major site of rickettsial persistence, including sites in the vital organs, brain, and lungs of CD8 lymphocyte-depleted mice. In nondepleted animals, CD8 T lymphocytes were observed in apposition to endothelial cells on day 10 at the time of rickettsial clearance. Adoptive transfer of immune CD4 or CD8 T lymphocytes protected mice against a lethal dose of R. conorii in the disseminated endothelial target model. Nonimmune CD4 or CD8 lymphocytes and immune lymphocytes that had passed through columns that depleted both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes failed to protect mice against R. conorii. These studies represent the first analysis of the role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group rickettsiae and the first demonstration that clearance of spotted fever group rickettsiae from endothelial cells requires immune CD8 T lymphocytes.

Absence of the microsatellite mutator phenotype in human bronchial epithelial cells transformed by alpha particles

The immortalized human bronchial epithelial cell line, BEP2D, can become malignantly transformed following its irradiation with alpha particles. Exposed cells progress through a latent period of eight to ten weeks prior to exhibiting malignant properties. The molecular basis for this delay is unclear, however it is thought to involve a manifestation of genomic instability brought on by ionizing radiation. In this study we addressed whether the microsatellite mutator phenotype which arises in cells that lack mismatch repair function could have played a role in the radiation-induced transformation of BEP2D cells. Three cell lines, including BEP2D and two transformed clonal derivatives, H2BT2L and R30T1L, were examined for the presence of the microsatellite mutator phenotype using a selectable reporter system developed in our laboratory. This reporter system is based on the ability of stably transduced cells to restore the reading frame of a hygromycin B phosphotransferase transferase gene rendered out of frame by the insertion of a (CA)(13) repeat tract immediately downstream of the ATG start codon. The parental BEP2D cell line had a relatively low hygromycin B resistant colony formation frequency of 2.36 x 10(-4). This value was similar to the frequencies of two malignantly transformed derivatives H2BT2L (0.996 x 10(-4)) and R30T1L (1.87 x 10(-4)). We therefore conclude that the H2BT2L and R30T1L cell lines are not deficient in their hMSH2, hMLH1, hPMS2 or hMSH3 mismatch repair gene functions, and that other factors orchestrated the alpha particle induced malignant transformation of H2BT2L and R30T1L cells.

Deficits in water escape performance and alterations in hippocampal cholinergic mechanisms associated with neonatal monosodium glutamate treatment in mice

Mice treated neonatally with monosodium glutamate (MSG) were found to have learning and memory deficits in performing a non-spatial water escape task. Scopolamine impaired the water-escape performance of the control mice but not that of the MSG-treated mice. It was suggested that the water-escape performance deficit in the MSG-treated mice was a result of impaired central cholinergic mechanisms. As such, scopolamine was unable to further incapacitate an already impaired cholinergic system. This is strongly supported by the decreased affinity of the sodium-dependent high-affinity choline uptake observed in the hippocampus. D-Cycloserine, a partial agonist at the glycine site of the NMDA receptor, did not affect the water-escape performance of the MSG-treated and control mice; nor did it alter the effects of scopolamine. This lack of effect of D-Cycloserine may imply that the NMDA receptors are not involved in non-spatial learning, in contrast to their reported involvement in spatial learning.

[Evaluation of reproducibilty of the hinge-axis and it's positional relation to condyles]

The aim of this paper was to study the reproducibility of the positions of hinge-axis of mandibular retruded small open-closed movements, and the positional relationship between the hinge-axis and condyles. Fourteen normal students were tested by a six degrees of freedom mandibular movement recorder MT1602 (Germany). The result showed that: the hinge-axis could not be exactly repeated and movable instantaneous centers of rotation (ICR) were recorded. These rotation centers distributed almost evenly around the condyles, the mean distance from these rotation centers to condyle centers was about 8.83 +/- 5.65 mm.

Inhibition of intermediate-term memory following passive avoidance training in neonate chicks by a presynaptic cholinergic blocker

The effects of a specific presynaptic cholinergic antagonist, toosendanin, on memory formation following a passive avoidance training experience in day-old chicks was investigated. Bilateral injection of toosendanin into the neostriatal/hyperstriatal region of the chick forebrain produced memory impairment in a dose-dependent manner. Retention deficits were apparent from 20 min following training in chicks treated with toosendanin, regardless of the injection time relative to training. Chicks that received injections of the drug at corresponding times prior to retention tests showed normal retention levels, suggesting that toosendanin has no effect on performance and memory retrieval. These results indicate an involvement of cholinergic transmission during an early stage of memory formation.

[The design of an OEM module-based hand-hold pulse oximeter]

This paper describes the software and hardware design of an OEM module-based hand-hold pulse oximeter. The instrument has the features of compact structure, reliable performance, having all the necessary functions, providing measurements on any patients and low power consumption. It is possible to make this instrument as a commercial product in shorter period.

[Adrenoceptors in the hepatic tissues in cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To study the density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on hepatic tissues of cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHODS

A light autoradiography of alpha 1-adrenoreceptors on hepatic tissues of Wistar rats in the process of CC1(4)-induced cirrhosis (n = 18) and hepatitis virus B-related cirrhotic patients (n = 8) were studied.

RESULTS

The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on hepatic tissues (per 10,000 microns2) in rats (normal/cirrhotic early stage/cirrhotic middle stage/cirrhotic advanced stage) was 946 +/- 100/431 +/- 54/567 +/- 92/692 +/- 55 for hepatocytes, 581 +/- 90/250 +/- 87/273 +/- 92/273 +/- 88 for intrahepatic artery walls, 470 +/- 83/260 +/- 75/258 +/- 77/253 +/- 83 for intrahepatic portal walls, 362 +/- 92/229 +/- 64/218 +/- 87/212 +/- 90 for hepatic venule walls and in patients (control human beings/cirrhotic patients) it was 1255 +/- 151/583 +/- 48 for hepatocytes, 705 +/- 189/184 +/- 47 for intrahepatic artery walls 410 +/- 89/ 154 +/- 21 for intrahepatic portal walls 339 +/- 95/... ...for hepatic venule walls.

CONCLUSION

The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on various hepatic structures in cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients are significantly lower than that in normal rats and control human beings (P < 0.01).

Effect of amino acid cardioplegia on myocardial metabolism and function of ischemic canine heart

To evaluate the effect of amino acid cardioplegia on myocardial metabolism and function of ischemic canine heart, canine cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) model was established and the dog heart was subjected to a 120 min ischemic arrest. Animals were divided into 3 groups, group 1: warm blood cardioplegia induction and terminal perfusion plus 4 C ST. Thomas hospital solution (STS) during ischemia; group 2: warm blood cardioplegia enriched with amino acid (L-asparte and L-glutamate 13 mmol/L each) and STS without amino acid (A. G.) and group 3: both warm blood cardioplegic solution and STS enriched with A. G. . The result demonstrated that the cardiac function of animals in group 2 and 3 had a significantly better recovery after ischemic-re-perfusion. By the end of ischemia the content of myocardial ATP in group 3 was distinctly higher than that in group 1 (P < 0.05), with the release of cardiac enzyme being the least. Myocardial ultra-structure almost remained intact before and after ischemia. Our experiment suggests that the cardioplegia arrest with warm blood and cold crystalloid solution enriched with amino acids could diminish the ischemia-re-perfusion injuries of the heart and enhance the effect of myocardial protection.

Improvement of fatigue and acceleration of recovery from stress-induced deficient sexual behavior in mice following oral administration of soft-shelled turtle powder

Effects of oral administration of cryomilled powder of the soft-shelled turtle (SST powder) on forced-exercise performance and stress-induced reduction in sexual and learning behavior were studied in mice. In the fatigue-preventive experiment, the SSt powder was administered orally to mice which were forced to climb a descending rope for 60 min a day. The treatment significantly improved the daily performance of the mice. In the stress recovery experiment, male mice were hanged from the tail and forced to swim using their fore paws for 30 to 60 min everyday. Stress significantly reduced sexual behavior and memory retrieval (step down test). Daily oral administration of the SST powder significantly attenuated this decline in sexual behavior. However, the effects on memory retrieval were not statistically significant. These results suggest that administration of SST powder attenuates fatigue and accelerates recovery from stress in mice.

[Report of clinical use of fixed-removable prosthesis]

Thirty-two patients provided with the fixed-removable prosthes is were followed up 3 month to 2.5 years. A total of 52 abutments were included, 17 of which were telescopic retainer, 14 were bar attachment retainer, 4 were rod attachment, 12 were stud attachment and 5 were slide attachment. Few technical failures were recorded. All found the prosthesis satisfactory and well functioning.

Anti-tumor effects of orally administered soft-shelled turtle powder in mice

The effects of oral administration of cryomilled powder of the soft-shelled turtle (SST powder) on solid and ascites tumor-bearing C3H/He mice were studied. The SST powder was administered orally at a dose of 100 or 500 mg/kg/d for two or four weeks, and then MH134 hepatoma cells were inoculated; oral administration was continued after inoculation. Treatment with the SST powder attenuated the increase in diameter and weight of the tumor and prolonged the survival of mice with solid tumors. However, the same treatment did not show any significant effect in mice with ascites tumor, indicating that the SST powder has no direct killing action on tumor cells. These results suggest that oral administration of the SST powder decreases the growth of solid tumors possibly by activating the host immune system.

[An autoradiographic study of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in hepatic tissues in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

We studied hepatic alpha 1-adrenoceptors of 8 hepatitis virus B-related cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension and 8 control surgical patients without liver disease by light radioautography. The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in various hepatic structures ("healthy" control vs. patients, per 10,000 microns 2) was as follows: on hypatocytes 1255.07 +/- 151.44/583.37 +/- 47.64 (P < 0.01); on intrahepatic artery walls 705.06 +/- 188.68/183.54 +/- 46.77 (P < 0.01); on intrahepatic portal walls 409.98 +/- 88.73/154.02 +/- 20.65 (P < 0.01); on hepatic venule walls 339.29 +/- 94.85/.... The decrease of density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in cirrhotic liver tissues may be a result of the destruction of nomal hepatic structure by hepatitis virus B and the down-regulation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors.

[Clinical analysis of 62 pregnant women complicated with organic heart diseases]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the factors which effect maternal-fetal outcomes in pregnant women complicated with organic heart disease.

METHOD

Clinical data of 62 pregnant cases with either rheumatic or congenital heart diseases, collected from Beijing Anzhen Hospital during 1985-1994, were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The prevalence of organic heart diseases in total pregnant women during the same period was 0.97%. No significant difference was found in maternal-fetal complications between the two types of heart diseases. However, the incidences of maternal heart failure, premature birth, intrauterine growth retardation were significantly higher in patients without previous surgical treatment as compared with those with previous surgical therapy, and were also higher in patients with heart function of grade III-IV in comparison with those with grade I-II.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with organic heart diseases should be treated and operated on in order to achieve grade I-II heart function before pregnancy. Cesarean section is the better choice of delivery.

High resolution 1H spectra of powdered solids observed by Hahn echo pulse sequence with magic-angle spinning

The 1H magic-angle spinning (MAS) spectrum for a typical powdered solid is composed of a high resolution component and a broadline component. The high resolution component can be well isolated from the broadline component by the Hahn echo sequence with a long echo time. Compared with CRAMPS experiment, which measures the proton system as a whole, the high resolution echo-MAS method measures only a fraction of the solid, which is usually small at room temperature and quite different from the majority of the solid in both molecular motion and chemical environment. It is shown that for a sample of fumaric acid monoethyl ester, the chemical shifts of the high resolution component are apparently distinguishable from the isotropic chemical shifts of the broadline component in the CRAMPS spectrum as the temperature approaches the melting point. In addition, for a sample of malonic acid, the echo-MAS spectrum is sensitive to moisture and temperature, while its corresponding CRAMPS spectrum is not. It is suggested that the molecules which produce the high resolution component are related to the lattice defects in a solid, including the surface disorder of the polycrystallites, while the molecules that generate the broadline component are located on the rigid lattice of the solid.

Interaction of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems in the rat striatum: effects of selective antagonists and uptake inhibitors

The effects of some selective dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) antagonists and uptake inhibitors on the outflow of homovanillic acid (HVA) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in the striatum were studied using microdialysis in conscious rats. Eticlopride (D2 antagonist, 2.5 mg/kg) increased HVA but decreased 5-HIAA, while nomifensine (DA uptake inhibitor, 10 mg/kg) decreased both. Mianserin (5-HT2 antagonist, 2 mg/kg) and citalopram (5-HT uptake inhibitor, 11 mg/kg) also decreased both HVA and 5-HIAA. The selectivity of these drugs and the time course of their effects on HVA and 5-HIAA suggested that the dopaminergic drugs may affect the serotonergic systems primarily via changes in extraneuronal DA and conversely, serotonergic drugs affect the dopaminergic systems via changes in extraneuronal 5-HT. The results obtained are consistent with current evidence that DA and 5-HT release from striatal terminals are regulated by D2 and 5-HT1B autoreceptors, respectively. They also support the idea that, in the rat striatum, presynaptic inhibitory heteroreceptors are a major mechanism that contributes to a reciprocal interaction of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems.

Multiple subpial transection for treatment of intractable epilepsy

On the basis of experimental study, we applied multiple subpial transection (MST) to treat 50 patients with intractable epilepsy in which epileptigenic lesion involved functional areas such as pericentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus, Broca's area, Wernicke's area, visual cortex, etc. They were followed up for 6 to 40 months. Complete control of seizures was obtained in 32 patients, significant reduction of seizure (more than 50%) in 13, reduction (less than 50%) in 3, and no effect in 2. The total effective rate was 96%. No functional defect was found in all patients. The mechanism of the disease and surgical technique were discussed in detail. We consider that MST could replace some standard excisional therapy for local epilepsy.

Bradykinin acting on B2 receptors contracts colon circular muscle cells by IP3 generation and adenylate cyclase inhibition

Receptor subtypes and intracellular signaling events involved in bradykinin-evoked contraction of colonic circular muscle are unknown. We studied the roles of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and cyclic AMP generation and the selectivity for B1 and B2 receptors in guinea pig colon. Bradykinin induced concentration-dependent contraction of circular muscle strips with an EC50 of 2 x 10(-8) M that was inhibited by the B2 antagonist D-Argo-(Hyp3,Thi5,8,D-Phe7)-bradykinin but not the B1 antagonist des-Arg9-[Leu8]bradykinin. The B1 agonist des-Arg9-bradykinin did not evoke contraction or relaxation. Bradykinin induced concentration-dependent shortening of isolated myocytes from circular muscle with an EC50 of 2 x 10(-11) M that was inhibited by the B2 but not the B1 antagonist, confirming the myogenic nature of the bradykinin receptors. Persistence of myocyte contraction in a calcium-free medium with EGTA confirmed the lack of dependence on extracellular calcium. In colon muscle tissue, bradykinin evoked concentration-dependent IP3 generation with an EC50 of 10(-7) M and a maximal level of 58 +/- 17 pmol/mg of protein at 10(-4) M that was inhibited by the B2 but not the B1 antagonist. Bradykinin, acting on B2 receptors, inhibited cyclic AMP formation after forskolin (10(-5) M) with an EC50 of 3 x 10(-8) M and maximal inhibition of 48% at 10(-5) M. In conclusion, bradykinin induces colon muscle contraction via myogenic non-B1 receptors, which are likely of the B2 subtype, with phosphoinositide turnover activation and adenylate cyclase inhibition.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Evidence, from family studies, for linkage disequilibrium between TGFA and a gene for nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate

The inheritance of alleles of the transforming growth factor alpha (TGFA) locus has been studied in families affected with cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P), by using the transmission/disequilibrium test described by Spielman and colleagues. Only heterozygous parents with an affected child can be included in this test, but within such families a significantly greater frequency of C2 alleles were transmitted to affected children than would be expected by chance. There was no evidence that the total number of C2 alleles transmitted to affected and unaffected children differed significantly from random segregation. These data provide evidence from within families that a gene for susceptibility to CL/P is in significant linkage disequilibrium with the C2 allele of the TGFA locus.

P1 and cosmid clones define the organization of 280 kb of the mouse H-2 complex containing the Cps-1 and Hsp70 loci

A 280 kilobase (kb) contig was isolated from mouse genomic P1 and cosmid libraries, using as probes human cDNA and genomic DNA fragments that map in the interval between the second component of complement and tumor necrosis factor genes of the HLA complex. The clone contig demonstrates synteny of eleven mouse genes that are homologous to genes initially mapped within the human major histocompatibility complex. These include the mouse homologs of BAT2 (HLA-B-associated transcript 2) through BAT9 and also three HSP70-related genes. Five P1 clones form a contig of 240 kb that spans from BAT9 through BAT3. Twelve cosmid clones are arranged in three contigs that confirm most of the structure of the P1 contig and link the mouse BAT3 homolog to the BAT2 homolog approximately 15 kb farther telomeric. Polymorphic DNA markers within the cloned region were used to map the cleft palate susceptibility-1 (Cps-1) locus to the interval between Hsp70.1 and BAT6 (valyl-tRNA synthetase). This refines the location of the Cps-1 locus to a 45 kb region contained in the H2-124 P1 insert.

Association between alleles of the transforming growth factor-alpha locus and the occurrence of cleft lip

DNA samples from 100 patients with cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) were compared with those of 98 unaffected control individuals with respect to transforming growth factor alpha (TGFA) genotypes. Among the Caucasians in this population (83 CL/P, 84 controls), there was a significant difference in the restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) observed after digestion with TaqI (chi 2 = 4.68, P = 0.03). The frequency of the C2 allele in the Caucasian CL/P population was 0.169, whereas that in the control group was 0.089. When the data for Caucasians, African-Americans, and Asians were examined jointly, the chi 2 value for the pooled sample was 5.08 (P = 0.02). This confirms the hypothesis of Ardinger et al. [1989, Am J Hum Genet, 45:348-353] that TFGA itself or a closely linked gene contributes to the development of CL/P in humans.

Purified antichick Thy-1 IgG abolishes intermediate and long-term memory

One- to 2-day-old chicks administered purified antichick Thy-1 IgG showed substantial amnesia for a single-trial passive discriminated avoidance task. Amnesia was clearly evident at 30 min after learning, during the intermediate stage of a three-stage model of memory processing, and persisted for at least 3 h. A similar effect was also observed with Fab and F(ab')2 fragments. Fc fragments, the non-IgG fraction of ascites, and saline yielded normal retention levels at all times. These results contrast with our earlier reports that both polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to chick Thy-1 inhibited long-term memory formation only. The present findings are interpreted as possibly representing a dual effect of the purified IgG.

CT-guided stereotactic injection of radionuclide for treatment of brain tumors

The authors report on 40 brain tumor patients treated with CT-guided stereotactic injection of 198Au and 32P. Among the 40 cases were astrocytoma in 23 cases, craniopharyngioma in 9, meningioma in 4, pituitary adenoma in 2, and pinealoma and metastatic carcinoma each in 1 case. The tumors were all located in deep or important areas of the brain which were difficult to deal with by conventional operation. 62 injections of colloidal isotopes were performed, and all were successful. No major adverse effects or complications occurred on follow-up of 6-12 months, 28 patients were improved in their clinical symptoms, and CT scanning showed that the tumor sizes were diminished. The effective rate is 70%.

Definition of myasthenogenic sites of the human acetylcholine receptor using synthetic peptides

Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) and antibodies that modulate AChRs from cultured human muscle are induced by a disulfide-looped peptide comprising the human acetylcholine receptor (AChR) alpha-subunit residues 125-147 (H alpha 125-147). To delineate the essential antigenic requirements for induction of EAMG by this peptide, a series of peptides was synthesized: (a) a nonlooped analog (Cys 128 replaced by Ser) stimulated modulating autoantibodies, induced EAMG, and bound antibodies induced by native AChR; (b) H alpha 131-147, a heptadecylpeptide shorter by 6 N-terminal residues, induced modulating antibodies, EAMG, and T cells that responded to H alpha 125-147, but not to H alpha 137-147; (c) H alpha 137-147, an undecapeptide shorter than H alpha 125-147 by 12 N-terminal residues, did not stimulate T cells or induce antibody production, but it bound antibodies generated by the longer peptides. Thus, when coupled to an epitope that could stimulate helper T cells, the region 137-147 was able to stimulate B cells. This study has defined a myasthenogenic region of the human AChR's alpha-subunit, 17 amino acids long, that contains several distinct epitopes, including at least one N-terminal site inducing T-cell responses (region 131-136) and two possibly overlapping sites that induce antibodies (regions 131-136 and 137-147). Further definition of antigenic sites inducing helper and suppressor T-cell responses and stimulating production of autoantibodies to AChR is essential to the goal of antigen-specific immunotherapy for myasthenia gravis.

Multiecho magnetic resonance angiography

Several pulse sequences which generate projected MR angiograms are presented. These pulse sequences exploit multiple-gradient refocused echoes to obtain several independent angiograms, which can be combined or separately analyzed to provide more information than an individual angiogram. For example, a series of angiograms, each with a different projection axis, can be obtained in the time required to obtain a single angiogram using a single-echo method. If the view angle of each echo is the same, then the acquired angiograms can be added to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. Another pulse sequence simultaneously obtains two or more angiograms, sensitive to orthogonal flow components of the overall blood flow. These angiograms are then added to give an angiogram which is sensitive to flow in all directions.

Polychlorinated Biphenyl Dechlorination in Aquatic Sediments

The polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) residues in the aquatic sediments from six PCB spill sites showed changes in PCB isomer and homolog (congener) distribution that indicated the occurrence of reductive dechlorination. The PCB dechlorinations exhibited several distinct congener selection patterns that indicated mediation by several different localized populations of anaerobic microorganisms. The higher (more heavily chlorinated) PCB congeners that were preferentially attacked by the observed dechlorination processes included all those that are either pharmacologically active or persistent in higher animals. All the lower (less heavily chlorinated) PCB congeners formed by the dechlorinations were species that are known to be oxidatively biodegradable by the bacteria of aerobic environments.

Endplates after esterase inactivation in vivo: correlation between esterase concentration, functional response and fine structure

Mouse sternomastoid muscles were incubated with diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) in vivo, and the time course of recovery was studied using histochemistry, EM autoradiography and physiology. We found that: (1) the ability of the muscle to sustain tetanus in response to nerve stimulation is eliminated when the esterases at the neuromuscular junctions are saturated with DFP. This ability is regained partially when less than 10% of the DFP-binding sites have recovered. (2) There is a positive correlation between the frequency of stimulation at which the tetanic response can be maintained and the extent of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) recovery. (3) Tetanic responses at fusion frequency (about 100 Hz) appear indistinguishable from controls with only about 25% of normal AChE. (4) Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) possibly of Schwann cell origin recovers more rapidly than does AChE. (5) The muscle shows fine structural changes involving Z band dissolution and the breakdown of sarcoplasmic reticulum within hours after esterase inactivation. (6) This myopathy reaches a peak at three days after esterase inactivation and is almost fully recovered by two weeks. (7) It can be eliminated if, at the time of esterase inactivation, the nerve is cut or the acetylcholine receptors at the endplate are inactivated by alpha-bungarotoxin. We suggest that the myopathy, seen after DFP, is mediated by Ca2+ fluxes due to prolonged action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the absence of esterases.