[The effect of growth hormone on wound healing rate in adult burns]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the wound healing effect of rHGH in adult burn patients.

METHODS

16 patients with burn wounds covering over 60% of total body surface (TBSA) were enrolled in this placebo controlled prospective study. They were comparable in nutrient intake, TBSA, and full thickness burn area. rHGH group patients were given rHGH subcutaneously in the dose of 0.3u.Kg-1 at 8 am each morning for 10 days beginning from POD 1. The control group patients were given normal saline as placebo. All the patients received scar excision within 4 days postburn, and the excision wounds were covered with autologous skin pulp grafting. Serum amino acid profile was analyzed at day 1 and day 20 post burn. Healing time of burn wound area and donor site was recorded. Wound healing rate was assessed at day 30 after day.

RESULTS

1. The healing time of autologous skin pulp grafting and donor site, and the length of hospital stay were significantly shorter in GH group patients than control group. 2. The amino acid profile showed no difference between two groups at day 1 and was significantly better in GH group at day 20.

CONCLUSION

rHGH could enhance the wound healing rate, improve amino acid profile, and reduce the length of hospital stay of severe burn patients.

Structure, organization, and chromosomal mapping of the gene encoding macrosialin, a macrophage-restricted protein

Murine macrosialin and its human homologue CD68 are heavily glycosylated transmembrane proteins expressed specifically in macrophages and macrophage-related cells. Macrosialin is predominantly a late endosomal protein but is also found on the cell surface where it binds oxidized LDL, an important factor in atherogenesis. We have cloned and sequenced the murine macrosialin gene (Cd68) and localized it by linkage analysis to chromosome 11. The gene is 1908 nucleotides long from the start site of transcription to the end of the 3'UTR. It has six exons, which range in size from 79 to 434 nucleotides. The promoter lacks a classical TATA box but contains other protein binding sites consistent with preferential monocyte/macrophage gene expression. Although the function of macrosialin is unknown, it might play a role in lipoprotein regulation given its binding of oxidized LDL in vitro and its colocalization to a region on chromosome 11 involved in the control of HDL levels.

Energy expenditure of Chinese infants in Guangdong Province, south China, determined with use of the doubly labeled water method

The doubly labeled water method was used to measure the energy expenditure of a group of 41, 4- or 6-mo-old infants with a cross-sectional design. The infants were divided into two groups according to whether they were breast-fed (11 at 4 mo, 9 at 6 mo) or formula fed (11 at 4 mo, 10 at 6 mo). Anthropometric measurements were recorded at birth and at the beginning and end of the 8-d study. Anthropometric data, which were supported by the food intake and energy expenditure results, indicated that the infants were within the norms for European and American infants of the same age. Mean energy intakes of 352 kJ (84 kcal) kg(-1) x d(-1) at 4 and 6 mo were lower than the FAO/WHO/UNU recommended value of 452 kJ (108 kcal) x kg(-1) x d(-1)) and Chinese recommendations of 502 kJ (120 kcal) kg(-1) x d(-1). However, some authors believe that values of 398 kJ (95 kcal) kg(-1) x d(-1) at 4 mo and 356 kJ (85 kcal) kg(-1) x d(-1) at 6 mo are more appropriate. At 6 mo the infants' length-for-age and weight-for-age were at the National Center for Health Statistics 55th and 47th percentiles, respectively, whereas 58% were below the 50th percentile for weight-for-length. We conclude that at 4 mo infants receive sufficient energy for their requirements. However, at 6 mo energy requirements might well be greater than the revised recommendations, when infants are being weaned to alternative foods and are more prone to the influence of diet on their growth and development.

Two epimeric pairs of C-4-acetyl annonaceous acetogenins from Goniothalamus donnaiensis

Further studies on the roots of Goniothalamus donnaiensis Finet et Gagnap (Annonaceae) led to the isolation of two pairs of Annonaceous acetogenins, donnaienin C ( 1) and 34- EPI-donnaienin C ( 1'), donnaienin D ( 2) and 34- EPI-donnaienin D ( 2'), containing a rare gamma-hydroxymethyl-gamma-lactone moiety and a C-4-acetoxy group. Their structures were elucidated by spectral data and chemical derivatization. Preliminary pharmacological tests showed that the mixture of donnaienin C( 1) and 34- EPI-donnaienin C ( 1') inhibited human hepatoma (Bel) cell lines in vitro (IC (50), 7.1 microg/ml).

[Alanyl-glutamine dipeptides protected the liver function by increasing the hepatic glutathione]

OBJECTIVE

Glutathione (GSH) is a major antioxidant which protects hepatic tissues from free radical injury. Alanyl-Glutamine (ALA-GLN) proved to be a precursor of GSH synthesis, was used to investigate the relationship to GSH biosynthesis which may be effective for hepatic protection.

METHODS

20 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups receiving standard parenteral nutrition (STD) supplemented with or without ALA-GLN for 7 days. At 5th day 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was injected peritoneally, the blood samples for GSH, GSSG, ALT (sGPT), AKP and TBilli tests were measured after 4-8 h.

RESULTS

The concentration measurements were significantly different in ALA-GLN group compared with STD animals in serum GLN (687.3 +/- 49.8) vs (504.9 +/- 38.6) mumol/L, P < 0.05), serum GSH (14.37 +/- 5.16) vs (7.08 +/- 3.16) mumol/L, P < 0.01) and in liver GSH content (6.86 +/- 2.46) vs (4.38 +/- 1.63) mumol/g liver tissue, P < 0.05). Rats in ALA-GLN group have lesser elevations in hepatic enzymes after 5-FU administration.

CONCLUSIONS

The supplemented nutrition ALA-GLN protected the liver function through increasing the glutathione biosynthesis and preserving the glutathione stores of hepatic tissue.

A new epimeric pair of mono-THF annonaceous acetogenins from Goniothalamus gardneri

From the roots of Goniothalamus gardneri Hook f. et. Thoms (Annonaceae), we have isolated a novel epimeric pair, gardnerinin ( 1) and 34- EPI-gardnerinin ( 1'), characterized by the presence of a gamma-hydroxymethyl-gamma-lactone moiety. These compounds represent an unusual type of mono-THF Annonaceous acetogenins, bearing one flanking hydroxy group on the hydrocarbon side, and another hydroxy group on the lactone side, that is only one carbon away from the THF ring.

[Epidemiological analysis of HIV infection status in the population at high risk]

In order to understand the status of HIV infection in the population under high risk, we conducted an epidemiological investigation among 396 persons from 1992 to 1995. The research sample included 55 female prostitutes, 159 labourers who had finished labour services abroad upon returning, 88 professional blood donors, 88 STD patients, 3 spouses and 3 children of the HIV infected people. Six cases of HIV positive were identified in four years. Among these, two were blood donors with one male and one female, the other four cases were all male labourers returned from abroad.

Autocrine regulation and experimental modulation of interleukin-6 expression by human pulmonary epithelial cells infected with respiratory syncytial virus

The mechanisms of regulation of interleukin-6 (IL-6) production in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-infected respiratory epithelial cells were evaluated in A549 cell cultures. Incubation with purified RSV resulted in significant production of IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Addition of saturating concentrations of neutralizing antibodies against IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, or TNF-alpha into purified RSV-infected cell cultures resulted in a significant inhibition of IL-6 production, although anti-IL-1alpha antibody had the most predominant effect (80% inhibition). Anti-IL-1alpha antibody also almost completely blocked the expression of mRNA for IL-6. Addition of therapeutic concentrations of dexamethasone (1 microM) or ribavirin (90 microg/ml), an antiviral agent, also significantly inhibited the synthesis of IL-6. Hence, in clinical settings, pharmacological agents such as the specific antagonists of IL-6-inducing cytokines, as well as dexamethasone and ribavirin, could be used to modulate IL-6 production.

[Construction of a human factor VIII gene-containing plasmid and its expression in Cos-7 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To construct an eukaryotic expressing plasmid--pAd CMV Link F VIII DB and express it in Cos-7 cells.

METHODS

An eukaryotic expressing plasmid--pAd CMV Link F VIII DB was constructed by inserting human factor VIII cDNA (F VIII DB, 4.6 kb), in which most part of B domain was deleted, into an adenovirus sequence-containing plasmid, and then Cos-7 cells were transfected with the constructed plasmid by liposome-mediated gene transfer method. F VIII DB mRNA, F VIII: Ag and F VIII: C in the transfected Cos-7 cells were assayed by RT-PCR, ELISA and one-stage method, respectively, at 24, 48 and 72 hours (hrs) after transfection.

RESULTS

F VIII DB mRNA was positive and, F VIII: Ag and F VIII: C were 18 ng/10(6) cells/24 hrs and 0.6 U/10(6) cells/24 hrs, respectively at 72 hrs after transfection, which was comparable to 60% of the activity produced by 100 micrograms/L F VIII in normal human plasma.

CONCLUSION

The constructed plasmid is proved to be expressed in Cos-7 cells.

Cytotoxicity of tocopherols and their quinones in drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant leukemia cells

Cytotoxicities of tocopherols (alpha-T, gamma-T, delta-t), their para (alpha-TQ, gamma-TQ, delta-TQ)- and ortho (Tocored)-quinone oxidation products, the synthetic quinone analog of gamma-TQ containing a methyl group substituted for the phytyl side-chain (TMCQ) and the synthetic quinone analog of Tocored containing a methyl group substituted for the phytyl side-chain (PR) were measured in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines that are drug-sensitive (CEM) and multidrug-resistant (CEM/VLB100). Among tocopherols, only delta-T exhibited cytotoxicity. Among para quinones, alpha-TQ showed no cytotoxicity, while gamma-TQ and delta-TQ were highly cytotoxic in both CEM and CEM/VLB100 cell lines (LD50 < 10 muM). delta-TQ and gamma-TQ were more cytotoxic than the widely studied chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, which also showed selective cytotoxicity to CEM cells. The orthoquinone Tocored was less cytotoxic than doxorubicin in drug-sensitive cells but more cytotoxic than doxorubicin in multidrug-resistant cells. Cytotoxicity was not a function of the phytyl side-chain since both TMCQ and PR were cytotoxic in leukemia cells. Cytotoxic para and ortho quinones were electrophiles that formed adducts with nucleophilic thiol groups in glutathione and 2-mercaptoethanol. Cytotoxicity was enhanced when the glutathione pool was depleted by preincubation with buthionine-[S,R]-sulfoximine, but cytotoxicity was diminished by the addition of N-acetylcysteine to cultures. alpha-T also diminished the cytotoxicity of para- and orthoquinones. Buthionine-[S,R]-sulfoximine did not block the inhibitory effect of either N-acetylcysteine or alpha-T, showing that these agents did not act solely by maintaining the glutathione pool as an essential antioxidant system. In conclusion, tocopherylquinones represent a new class of alkylating electrophilic quinones that function as highly cytotoxic agents and escape multidrug resistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines.

[Observation of inducing effect of five kinds of soft wood dust in micronucleus test]

The authors investigated the micronucleus frequencies (MP) in peripheral lymphocytes in 584 workers exposed to five kinds of soft wood dust and found that all kinds of soft wood dust could increase the micronucleus frequency. As the control's 95% confidential upper limit > or = 0.4% is defined as the standard for positivity the micronucleus positive frequency (MPF) in the exposure group is much higher than that in the control group (P < 0.01). Meanwhile the increase of exposure years may increase the MP, and the time-response relationship is evident (r = 0.90, P < 0.01). For different exposures, the MPFs are: 36.2% for linden, 26.3% for fir. 15.7% for lacebark pine, 9.6% for birch and 2.1% for polar. The positive rate of linden and fir exposure are significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.01). Water extract of these five kinds of soft wood dust can increase the frequencies of micronucleus in polychromatic red blood cell in mice's sternum marrow, which also showed a dose-response. The correlation coefficients are: 0.86 for linden 0.6 for fir, 0.39 for lacebark pine, 0.76 for birch and 0.73 for polar. All but the lacebark pine have the P value less than 0.01 (P < 0.01). At the dose of 15 g/kg body weight, micronucleus frequency induced by linden was the highest (0.8%), next were fir (0.71%), birch (0.65%), lacebark pine (0.63%), and polar (0.43%). The results from animal test are consistent with those from the exposure workers. These results suggest that there are some substances in soft wood which can induce chromosome aberration.

Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of an oligodeoxynucleotide phosphorothioate (GEM91) in cynomolgus monkeys following intravenous infusion

The pharmacokinetics and metabolism of an antisense oligonucleotide phosphorothioate (GEM91) were studied in cynomolgus monkeys following intravenous infusion. [35S]-Labeled GEM91 was administered to 12 monkeys by means of a 2-hour intravenous infusion at a dose of 4 mg/kg. Plasma pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that the maximum plasma concentration was 41.7 microg equivalents/ml, which was achieved in 2.13 hours. The plasma elimination half-life was 55.8 hours based on radioactivity levels. Urinary excretion represented the major pathway of elimination, with 70% of the administered dose excreted in urine over 240 hours. The oligonucleotide was widely distributed to tissues. The highest concentrations were observed in the liver and kidney. Analysis of the extracted oligonucleotide following post-labeling with [32p] on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed the presence of both intact and degraded oligonucleotide in plasma, kidney, liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. Based on the methods used for post-labeling (either 3'-end or 5'-end), different patterns of bands were observed on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, suggesting metabolic modification of the administered oligonucleotide.

Donnaienin, a New Acetogenin Bearing a Hydroxylated Tetrahydrofuran Ring

A novel Annonaceous acetogenin, donnaienin (1), was isolated from the roots of Goniothalamus donnaiensis. Its structure and stereochemistry were elucidated on the basis of spectral data and chemical evidence. This compound represents an unusual type of Annonaceous acetogenin, bearing a hydroxylated tetrahydrofuran ring.

Hard X-ray emission from high intensity short laser pulse produced Al, Mo and Ta plasmas

K-edge and Ross filters techniques were used to measure quantitatively the X-ray emission from laser heated Al, Mo, and Ta plasmas in the range of 10 to 100 keV. The INRS Table Top Terawatt laser system using Chirped Pulse Amplification technique supplied a focused laser pulse of about 300 mJ in 450 fs duration at λ = 0.53 μm, achieving irradiation intensities on the target surface up to 5 × 1017 W/cm2. The experimental results are compared to calculation of the hard X-ray radiation based on bombardment of solid target by electrons. Furthermore, the dependence of X-ray emission on laser energy, irradiation intensity and the target atomic number are discussed.

[15O]-water PET and intraoperative brain mapping: a comparison in the localization of eloquent cortex

[15O]-water PET was performed on 12 patients with structural lesions for localization of the motor (n = 5), language (receptive and expressive; n = 6), and visual cortex (n = 1). All these patients underwent interactive image-guided surgery using an infrared digitizer and intraoperative electrical stimulation mapping for motor, sensory, language, and visual cortex location. MRI-PET coregistration was performed using a surface matching approach that integrated functional information with interactive image guidance during the surgical procedure. An awake craniotomy with motor and sensory intraoperative stimulation was performed using a registered bipolar electrode that was tracked on real-time during the surgical procedure. Intraoperative functional findings were displayed and saved on the registered MRI images. The sites of functional PET activation during the performance of motor, visual and language tasks were then compared to the results of intraoperative cortical stimulation in 11 patients and visual evoked potentials in one. The results of the PET activation studies were concordant with the findings of intraoperative stimulation in all cases. During resection of the structural lesions, intraoperative stimulation was continued in the subcortical pathways, and five patients had positive responses on areas not identified by the functional PET. Furthermore, 3 patients showed transitory changes in function (speech arrest 1, naming difficulty 1, and motor weakness 1) that were reversible after changing the dissection technique or a brain retractor. [15O]-water PET was reliable in identifying the motor, visual, and language cortex. Language-related rCBF increases were highly distributive, although only part of these activations were subjected to intraoperative stimulation. We conclude that [15O]-water PET can be used for preoperative noninvasive identification of functional cortex and may be useful in neurosurgical preplanning. Intraoperative mapping still remains the main means to avoid neurological damage as it can be performed during the entire surgical procedure to avoid damage to cortex, pathways, and damage secondary to ischemia or edema (brain retraction).

Toxicologic effects of an oligodeoxynucleotide phosphorothioate and its analogs following intravenous administration in rats

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the in vivo toxicologic effects of a phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (PS oligo) and three of its analogs [PS oligo containing four methylphosphonate linkages at the 3' and 5'-ends (MBO 1), PS oligo containing four 2'-O-methylribonucleosides at both the 3'- and 5'-ends (MBO 2), and PS oligo containing an 8 bp loop region at the 3'-end (self-stabilized oligo)]. Oligodeoxynucleotides were administrated intravenously to male and female rats at doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day for 14 days. Rats were killed on day 15, blood samples were collected for hematology and clinical chemistry determinations, and tissues, including lymph nodes, spleens, livers, and kidneys, were subjected to pathologic examinations. The toxicity profiles of the four oligodeoxynucleotides were very similar, but differed in magnitude. In terms of the severity of the abnormalities caused by the oligodeoxynucleotides, the order was MBO 2 > PS oligo > self-stabilized oligo > MBO 1. Alterations in hematology parameters included thrombocytopenia, anemia, and neutropenia. Abnormalities in clinical chemistry parameters observed with PS oligo or MBO 2 were dose-dependent elevation of liver transaminases and reduction of the levels of alkaline phosphatase, albumin, and total protein. In addition, MBO 2 caused elevation of the total bilirubin level in male rats at the 30 mg/kg dose. No major alterations in hematology or clinical chemistry were observed in rats receiving MBO 1 or self-stabilized oligo. Dose-dependent enlargements of spleen, liver, and kidney were observed, especially in rats receiving PS oligo and MBO 2. Pathologic studies showed a generalized hyperplasia of the reticuloendothelial (RE) system in the tissues examined. Alterations in the spleen were mainly RE cell hyperplasia and hematopoietic cell proliferation. In addition to RE cell hyperplasia, lymph nodes showed necrosis, hepatocytes showed cytologic alterations and necrosis, and kidneys showed renal tubule regeneration. The severity of pathologic changes observed was oligodeoxynucleotide dependent, in the order of MBO 2 > PS oligo > self-stabilized oligo > MBO 1.

Dynamic 13C NMR analysis of pyruvate and lactate oxidation in the in vivo canine myocardium: evidence of reduced utilization with increased work

In this work, substrate selection was monitored in the left ventricle of the canine myocardium by following pyruvate and lactate oxidation under in vivo conditions at basal and elevated workloads. These studies were conducted in the open chest model using dynamic 13C NMR techniques in the presence and absence of dichloroacetic acid (DCA), a well-known activator of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH). Following the infusion of (3-(13)C) pyruvate or (3-(13)C) lactate into the left anterior descending artery, highly variable 13C enrichments of glutamate, alanine, aspartate, and citrate were noted under low (RPP < 14,500 mmHg/min), intermediate (RPP = 15,000-25,000 mmHg/min), and high (RPP > 25,500 mmHg/min) rate pressure products (RPP). At low workloads, the myocardium typically oxidized the infused (3-(13)C) pyruvate or (3-(13)C) lactate and incorporated the labeled carbon into the glutamate pool as expected. However, in a few notable instances (n = 3), 13C-enriched pyruvate and lactate were unable to label the glutamate pool under in vivo conditions even at the lowest RPPs, indicating a lack of selection for these substrates by the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Nonetheless, the levels of glutamate C4 enrichment observed at low workloads could usually be enhanced by infusion of DCA. Importantly, 13C NMR extract analysis revealed that (3-(13)C) pyruvate or (3-(13)C) lactate labeling of the glutamate pool was reduced (< 20%) at high workloads in spite of increased DCA concentrations.

Synergistic inhibition of human cancer cell growth by cytotoxic drugs and mixed backbone antisense oligonucleotide targeting protein kinase A

Protein kinase A type I plays a key role in neoplastic transformation, conveying mitogenic signals of different growth factors and oncogenes. Inhibition of protein kinase A type I by antisense oligonucleotides targeting its RIalpha regulatory subunit results in cancer cell growth inhibition in vitro and in vivo. A novel mixed backbone oligonucleotide HYB 190 and its mismatched control HYB 239 were tested on soft agar growth of several human cancer cell types. HYB 190 demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition of colony formation in all cell lines whereas the HYB 239 at the same doses caused a modest or no growth inhibition. A noninhibitory dose of each mixed backbone oligonucleotide was used in OVCAR-3 ovarian and GEO colon cancer cells to study whether any cooperative effect may occur between the antisense and a series of cytotoxic drugs acting by different mechanisms. Treatment with HYB 190 resulted in an additive growth inhibitory effect with several cytotoxic drugs when measured by soft agar colony formation. A synergistic growth inhibition, which correlated with increased apoptosis, was observed when HYB 190 was added to cancer cells treated with taxanes, platinum-based compounds, and topoisomerase II selective drugs. This synergistic effect was also observed in breast cancer cells and was obtained with other related drugs such as docetaxel and carboplatin. Combination of HYB 190 and paclitaxel resulted in an accumulation of cells in late S-G2 phases of cell cycle and marked induction of apoptosis. A cooperative effect of HYB 190 and paclitaxel was also obtained in vivo in nude mice bearing human GEO colon cancer xenografts. These results are the first report of a cooperative growth inhibitory effect obtained in a variety of human cancer cell lines by antisense mixed backbone oligonucleotide targeting protein kinase A type I-mediated mitogenic signals and specific cytotoxic drugs.

Sensitivity of the fractional Fourier transform to parameters and its application in optical measurement

The fractional Fourier transform (FRT) is becoming important in optics and can be used as a new tool to analyze many optical problems. However, we point out that the FRT might be much more sensitive to parameters than the conventional Fourier transform. This sensitivity leads to higher requirements on the optical implementation. On the other hand, high parametric sensitivity can be used in optical diffraction measurements. We give the first proposal, to our knowledge, of the FRT's applications in optical measurement.

[Paclitaxel (Tesu) as a single agent in the treatment of breast cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and the side effects of paclitaxel (Tesu) in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

Tesu was administered at 175 mg/m2(170.9-210.8 mg/m2) to 22 patients with advanced breast cancer from March to July 1995. Tesu was given once in 21 days as one cycle, and the patients recieved 1-4 cycles (median: 3 cycles) of treatment.

RESULTS

Tesu induced 3 complete responses and 11 partial responses. The duration of remission was 2-7 months (median 3.5 months). The most frequent toxicities associated with Tesu administration were leukopenia, alopecia and myalgias.

CONCLUSION

Tesu as a single agent is effective in the treatment of breast cancer and the side effects are tolerable.

Frequency and distribution of DNA fragmentation as a marker of cell death in chronic liver diseases

To study the early stages of cell death in various types of chronic liver injury, liver biopsies from a total of 26 patients, including 7 with chronic hepatitis C(CHC), 4 with chronic hepatitis B(CHB), 7 with alcoholic liver disease (ALD), 4 with autoimmune or drug hepatitis (AI/DH), and 4 with primary biliary cirrhosis(PBC), were examined by an in situ nucleotidyl transferase assay (ISNTA), which detects DNA fragmentation. Positive nuclei in hepatocytes and sinusoidal lining cells were counted in all parenchymal areas, excluding triads and areas of fibrosis, using a computer with Sigmascan software. The number of positive hepatocytes/mm2 was similar in the biopsies of patients with CHC, CHB, ALD and AI/DH, but significantly lower in PBC. The number of positive sinusoidal lining cells/mm2 was significantly greater in biopsies with CHC compared to CHB, ALD, AI/DH and PBC. Double staining revealed that the ISNTA-positive sinusoidal lining cells were also CD68 positive, indicating that they were Kupffer cells. The frequency of ISNTA positivity did not correlate with serum AST or ALT levels, steatosis, cell swelling or cirrhosis. ISNTA-positive hepatocytes were more frequent than acidophilic bodies in every disease category. We conclude that apoptosis may be a common pathway of cell death in different liver diseases, that the high frequency of DNA fragmentation in Kupffer cells in CHC suggests that during chronic hepatitis C infection activated Kupffer cells may be subject to regulatory control by apoptosis and that ISNTA is more sensitive than acidophilic bodies in assessing the degree of cell injury in the liver.

Use of an open stereotactic ring for neurosurgical procedures

We describe an open ring as a new design to the Zamorano-Dujovny (Z-D) stereotactic unit. The titanium base ring has an opening of 45 degrees that can be located in any chosen position. Imaging studies such as computed tomography, X-ray, positron emission tomography, digital angiography, and digital substraction angiography can be performed with the open stereotactic ring for multimodality image localization. Preoperatively and intraoperatively, this open design provides the anesthesiologist with an unobstructed pathway for airway management. During the surgical procedure, it facilitates approach to any intracranial lesion, including orbitozygomatic, combined supra-infratentorial, and others. During awake craniotomies it not only allows for easy airway management, but also provides good access to the patient's face for intraoperative evaluation of speech and visual functions. Accuracy and reliability of this unit were similar to results obtained with the original circular ring. This system can be used in conventional stereotaxis with the Z-D arc, as well as a reference for intraoperative registration with any digitizer system. The open stereotactic unit is a relatively inexpensive, reliable, and easy-to-use solution for resections using conventional stereotaxis or interactive image guidance in any intracranial site.

Adenovirus-mediated transfer of the smooth muscle cell calponin gene inhibits proliferation of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts

Smooth muscle cell calponin (h1 or basic isoform) is an actin-binding protein that inhibits actomyosin MgATPase activity and is abundantly expressed in differentiated smooth muscle. Western blots showed bovine tracheal (BT) smooth muscle cells in culture expressed only 2 +/- 1% (n = 8) of the amount of calponin in tissues, while NIH-3T3 fibroblasts expressed none. We tested the hypothesis that introduction of calponin to cultured BT and 3T3 cells would inhibit cytoskeletal activities associated with cell proliferation. To achieve high-efficiency expression, an adenovirus encoding the CMV-calponin construct (Adv-CaP) was generated by homologous recombination in 293 cells. With greater than 90% of BT and 3T3 cells infected with Adv-CaP, calponin expression (32 and 11 microg/mg total protein, respectively) was similar to that in smooth muscle tissues (51 microg/mg). Cells were infected with Adv-CaP for 48 h, replated at low density and proliferation rates were assessed by cell density and [3H]thymidine incorporation. Cell growth and DNA synthesis by Adv-CaP-infected cells were inhibited to one-third control values for both BT and 3T3 cells. Expressed calponin was localized primarily on stress fibers in both cell types. Calponin may act at the cytoskeletal level to retard signaling pathways that normally lead to tight coupling between cell shape and DNA synthesis.

Time dependence of Fresnel diffraction of ultrashort laser pulses by a circular aperture

We report on the time dependences of the Fresnel diffraction of ultrashort laser pulses by a circular aperture. The diffraction leads to a pulse delay, time shape change, pulse broadening, and peak power decrease. These effects may have to be taken into account whenever critical thresholds are encountered as, for example, in nonlinear optics or laser fusion.

Analysis of social factors and human behavior attributed to family distribution of schistosomiasis japonica cases

An investigation of family distribution patterns of schistosomiasis japonica was carried out in four pilot villages in Yunnan Province. Family clustering of the disease was present in Bihuayuan Village before and after economic reform (site A); however, such clustering did not occur in Tuanshan and Liantie Villages (sites B and C) in the same periods. Being contrary to the stage prior to economic reform family clustering existed in Zhonghe Village (site D) after the reform. The results obtained from single- and multifactor analysis showed that the main human behavior related to family distribution of schistosomiasis in mountainous regions of Yunnan Province included the frequency of laborer migration, contact with cercariae-infested water in public places or family microenvironments with a high transmission potential, promiscuous defecation and status of cattle grazing. The frequency of laborer migration and human contact with cercariae-infested water in public places in sites B and C without family clustering was higher than that in sites A and D with family clustering. Place for promiscuous defecation and cattle grazing in site A converged compared with that in sites B and C.

[Effect of recombinant growth hormone on amino acids metabolism in blood and urine after major operation]

To determine the effects of recombinant human growth hormone (GH) on postoperative amino acids metabolism, we performed a placebo-controlled randomized double-blind trial in 18 patients after elective gastrectomy or colectomy. The same amount of calories and amino acids were administered. Research group was daily injected growth hormone 0.15 IU/(kg.day) and control group was given placebo during the first postoperative week. All urine were analyzed for nitrogen balance and excretion of 3-methylhistidine. On the seventh postoperative day while the parenteral nutrients were being infused, amino acid exchange across the forearm was measured. On the seventh postoperative day all patients' amino acids in plasma were slightly increased by comparing with preoperative day but was not statistical significance. Forearm arterial-venous difference (A-V) measured on POD + 7 was markedly different between groups. There was continued release of amino acids from the forearm in the control subjects, while there was marked amino acid uptake in the GH patients (total amino acid nitrogen exchange was -398 +/- 158 mumol/L vs +165 +/- 61 mumol/L, P < 0.01). Excretion of urinary 3-methylhistidine in control group loss more than in GH group (7.3 +/- 1.0 mumol/(kg.24 h) vs 4.4 +/- 0.3 mumol/(kg.24 h), P < 0.05). The results demonstrated that GH can increase the uptake of amino acid from forearm and decrease the excreation of 3-methylhistidine in urine after operation, but did not disturb the balance of amino acids in plasma.

Influence of livestock husbandry on schistosomiasis transmission in mountainous regions of Yunnan Province

An investigation was conducted in the highly endemic areas of schistosomiasis japonica in Weishan and Eryuan counties, Yunnan Province. The results are summarized as follows: 1) the number of domestic animals was increasing annually; 2) the proportion of animal husbandry gains in the total agriculture income had a yearly escalating tendency; 3) the infection rate of inhabitants was upgrading as a result of the development of and the prevalence in domestic animals in the recent decades. Owing to frequent migration of domestic animals, serious spread of infection sources and high prevalence of schistosomiasis japonica occurred. It is suggested that more attention should be paid to the control of schistosomiasis japonica in mountainous endemic regions during the course of economic development, especially in the development of domestic animals.

Transmission electron microscopic study of the hemorrhagic spots in patients with epidemic hemorrhagic fever in the early stage

Epidemic hemorrhagic fever (EHF) virus particles were found in the squamous epithelial cells and the capillary endothelial cells of the petechial spots located on the mucous membrane of the soft palate in 3 patients with severe early-stage EHF with transmission electron microscopy. The virus particles were round or oval in shape, about 100 nm in diameter, with a two-layer lipid envelope from which spikes were protruding. The nucleocapsid of the virus appeared to be hollow microfilamentoid or dense granules. Meanwhile, budding virus particles with a diameter of 80 nm were found in the enlarged Golgi apparatus. The infected cells displayed an enlarged and proliferating Golgi apparatus. The morphological characteristics of the viron mentioned above coincided with those of the virus particles of the family Bunyaviridae. This study is the first to demonstrate that the squamous epithelial cells on the mucous membrane of the soft palate are the target cells of EHF infection and to provide subcellular morphological evidence of petechial hemorrhage at the soft palate.

Laser-based microfocused x-ray source for mammography: feasibility study

A laser-produced plasma (LPP) x-ray source with possible application in mammography was created by focusing a laser beam on a Mo target. A Table-Top-Terawatt (TTT) laser operating at 1 J energy per pulse was employed. A dual pulse technique was used. Maximum energy transfer (approximately 10%) from laser light to hot electrons was reached at a 150 ps delay between pulses and the conversion efficiency (hard x-ray yield/laser energy input) was approximately 2 x 10(-4). The created LPP x-ray source is characterized by a very small focal spot size (tens of microns), Gaussian brightness distribution, and a very short pulse duration (a few ps). The spectral distribution of the generated x rays was measured. Images of the focal spot, using a pinhole camera, and images of a resolution pattern and a mammographic phantom were obtained. The LPP focal spot modulation transfer function for different magnification factors was calculated. We have shown that the LPP source in conjunction with a spherically bent, high throughput, crystal monochromator in a fixed-exit Rowland circle configuration can be used to created a narrow band tunable mammography system. Tunability to a specific patient breast tissue thickness and density would allow one to significantly improve contrast and resolution (exceeding 20 lp/mm) while lowering the exposure up to 50% for thicker breasts. The prospects for the LPP x-ray source for mammographic application are discussed.

Effects of synthetic oligonucleotides on human complement and coagulation

Oligodeoxynucleotide phosphorothioates (PS-oligos) are being studied as novel therapeutic agents based on their ability to inhibit gene expression. Preclinical studies produced unanticipated complement and coagulation effects in monkeys receiving high-dose PS-oligo. In the present in vitro studies, PS-oligo inhibited normal human blood clotting as well as subsequent assays for prothrombin fragment PF(1+2) and hemolytic complement. PS-oligo treatment of normal donor plasma produced concentration-dependent prolongations of clotting times, with the activated partial thromboplastin time more sensitive than prothrombin time or thrombin clotting time. PS-oligo treatment of normal donor serum similarly reduced hemolytic complement activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Reduced hemolysis correlated with increased levels of complement fragment C4d. The anti-heparin drug protamine sulfate inhibited in vitro effects of PS-oligo in both complement and coagulation assays, suggesting that charged residues in internucleotide linkages of PS-oligo mediated the observed activities. Therefore, oligonucleotides with varying internucleotide linkages, nucleotide sequence, or secondary structure were compared. Both complement and coagulation effects appeared to be independent of nucleotide sequence but were strongly related to the nature of internucleotide linkages. Several of these modified oligonucleotides have been shown previously to retain potent antisense activity and thus may represent viable alternatives for antisense therapeutics.

The retinoblastoma gene family is differentially expressed during embryogenesis

We report differential expression of the RB1 tumor suppressor gene and the homologous genes p107 and p130 during embryogenesis. Abundant RB1 transcripts were detected during neurogenesis, hematopoiesis, myogenesis, lens development and in the ganglion cell layer of the embryonic retina, prior to and during differentiation. The expression pattern of RB1 mirrored the defects in RB1 mutant mice (RB-/-). In the heart, lung, kidney and intestine, p107, but not RB1, was expressed. In the liver and the central nervous system p107 and RB1 were co-expressed, consistent with the accelerated cell death observed in RB-/-; p107-/- double knock-out mice. In the central nervous system, p107 expression was restricted to proliferating cells surrounding the ventricles, while RB1 was expressed in areas of both proliferating and differentiating cells. In contrast to RB1 and p107, expression of p130 was low throughout embryogenesis. In situ hybridization and Western blot analyses showed that the expression of p107 and p130 was not markedly altered in RB-/- embryos compared to control littermates. Our results suggest that members of RB1 gene family have distinct, but overlapping roles in embryogenesis, with p107 and RB1 possibly having redundant functions in the central nervous system and liver.

Mixed-backbone oligonucleotides as second generation antisense oligonucleotides: in vitro and in vivo studies

Antisense oligonucleotides are being evaluated in clinical trials as novel therapeutic agents. To further improve the properties of antisense oligonucleotides, we have designed mixed-backbone oligonucleotides (MBOs) that contain phosphorothioate segments at the 3' and 5' ends and have a modified oligodeoxynucleotide or oligoribonucleotide segment located in the central portion of the oligonucleotide. Some of these MBOs indicate improved properties compared with phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides with respect to affinity to RNA, RNase H activation, and anti-HIV activity. In addition, more acceptable pharmacological, in vivo degradation and pharmacokinetic profiles were obtained with these MBOs.

Maternal-fetal transfer of metallic mercury via the placenta and milk

To clarify the situation of trans-placental movement and milk screening of metallic mercury in human, the content of mercury was detected in the maternal blood, umbilical cord blood, milk, and placental tissues. In 18 parturient women, 9 had been occupationally exposed to metallic mercury whereas the other 9 had not. Mercury was detected by means of cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results showed that the concentrations of mercury of the umbilical cord blood and placental tissues were higher than that of maternal blood. The ratio of organic and total mercury of milk was markedly lower than that of maternal blood in the exposed group (P < 0.01). The ratio of inorganic to total mercury of milk was significantly higher than that of maternal blood (P < 0.01). Therefore, this study concluded that the metallic mercury can be transferred to the fetus via the placenta and secreted to a newborn via milk.

[Circadian rhythm of PGE2 level in plasma and condylar cartilage of young growing rats]

This paper reports the circadian rhythm of PEG2 level in plasma and condylar cartilage of young frowing rats. The samples were measured at 0:00, 4:00, 8:00, 12:00, 16:00, and 20:00 respectively. The count of PGE2 were determined by RIA and analysed with simple Cosinor and coordination. The results revealed: (1) The levels of PGE2 in plasma and condylar cartilage of young growing rats fluctuated in strong circadian rhythm; (2) The rhythm of PGE2 in plasma between 16:00 and 24:00 was significantly different from that between 4:00 and 12:00, so for analysing PGE2 level in plasma, one should proper sampling time or adjust it to circadian rhythm; (3) The circadian rhythm of PGE2 in condylar cartilage could provide important reference for reatments in dentistry and orthopaedics.

Phase maps based on the Lorenz-Mie theory to optimize phase Doppler particle-sizing systems

A phase Doppler particle-sizing system, whose main part is a two-beam laser interferometer, can be used to determine the size of scattering particles by measuring the phase differences between two signals detected by two detectors located in a scattered field. Important parameters of the receiving system to be selected include the off-axis angle, the elevation angle, and parameters of receiving apertures. A method is described for theoretically optimizing such measuring systems with the aid of so-called phase maps based on the Lorenz-Mie scattering theory. This method has been systematically studied and applied for cases of water droplets, metal particles, and droplets of weakly absorbing fluid. The results have shown that phase maps are direct, simple, and unique to interpret, and they provide an effective tool in setting up measuring systems.

Reduced coronary flow reserve during exercise in cardiac transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Coronary flow reserve (CFR) is reduced in a majority of patients after heart transplantation (HTx). Pharmacological interventions, however, provide only limited information on CFR under physiological conditions. Thus, CFR during exercise was evaluated in the present study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Coronary angiography was performed at rest and during supine bicycle exercise in 35 patients early (2 to 3 months; n = 10) or late (1 to 6 years; mean, 2.5 years; n = 25) after HTx and in 8 controls (C). CFR was determined by parametric imaging after administration of 10 mg intracoronary papaverine, during exercise, and after 1.6 mg sublingual nitroglycerin. Epicardial coronary artery size was measured by quantitative coronary angiography. CFR after papaverine was normal early (3.6 +/- 0.5 versus C, 3.6 +/- 0.7; P = NS) and late (3.8 +/- 1.3 P = NS) after HTx. During exercise, CFR was normal early (3.1 +/- 0.6 versus C, 3.9 +/- 0.9; P = NS) but decreased late (2.3 +/- 0.6; P < .01) after HTx. The increase in coronary cross-sectional area during exercise was also diminished late after HTx (14 +/- 10% versus C, 22 +/- 10%; P < .05). Both exercise-induced CFR (r = -.39, P < .05) and coronary vasodilation (r = -.44, P < .01) were inversely correlated with time after HTx.

CONCLUSIONS

CFR during exercise is normal early but reduced late after HTx, whereas CFR after papaverine administration is maintained. This difference between physiological and pharmacological vasodilation suggests progressive endothelial dysfunction after HTx.

[Changes in external secretion of the pancreas in morphine-dependent rat]

The present study was done both in vivo by cannulating pancreatic duct of morphine-dependent rats and in vitro using perfused pancreatic slices from morphine-dependent rats. The results were as follows: (1) In morphine-dependent rat the pancreatic amylase secretion induced by CCK-8 was significantly declined; (2) Amylase content of pancreatic tissue in morphine-dependent rats was lower than that of normal rats. It is suggested that the synthesis of amylase in morphine-dependent rat pancreas may be inhibited.

Expression of constitutive cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1) in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes; effects of treatment with evening primrose oil or an aldose reductase inhibitor on COX-1 mRNA levels

Altered prostanoid metabolism participates in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. The rate-limiting enzyme in the control of prostanoid metabolism is constitutive cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1). This study examined the possibility that altered prostanoid metabolism derives from altered COX-1 expression in those tissues from diabetic rats, with characteristic changes in prostanoid production and related haemodynamics. This account also describes a procedure for estimation of minute amounts of COX-1 mRNA by reverse transcription and competitive polymerase chain reaction (RT-cPCR) amplification. In streptozotocin-diabetic rats (STZ-D, 55 mg/kg body weight), compared with age-matched controls, the level of COX-1 mRNA (in attomoles/micrograms tRNA +/- 1SD) was significantly decreased in sciatic nerve (0.50 +/- 0.26 versus 0.89 +/- 0.32 in controls; P < 0.05) and thoracic aorta (3.99 +/- 1.67 versus 8.80 +/- 2.37 in controls; P < 0.05). There were no differences in COX-1 mRNA in diabetic and control rat kidney and retina, though there was a trend towards increased expression with diabetes in the latter. Evening primrose oil (EPO) treatment increased COX-1 mRNA in nerve and retina to levels in diabetic rats that were higher than those of non-diabetic controls (1.21 +/- 0.28 for nerve and 0.065 +/- 0.017 for retina, where control retinae gave 0.031 +/- 0.020-see above for nerve). Treatment of diabetic rats with an aldose reductase inhibitor was without effect on COX-1 mRNA levels in the tissues examined. This study demonstrates that the changes in COX-1 mRNA levels in diabetic rats are organ specific and suggests that altered prostanoid metabolism can, in part, be explained by altered COX-1 expression. Apart from providing arachidonate as substrate for COX, EPO stimulates COX-1 expression in some tissues.

Relative phase shifts of apertured Gaussian beams and transformation of a Gaussian beam through a phase aperture

When a Gaussian beam is apertured, it undergoes a focal shift as well as a phase shift. The focal shift has been investigated extensively although the phase shift has seldom been discussed. We analyze the phase shift of the apertured Gaussian beam. Furthermore we point out that the phase aperture may be used to transform the intensity distribution of the Gaussian beam to obtain a more concentrated beam, to realize uniformity of the Gaussian beam, and to obtain a ring beam.

[Chemical constituentes of Teucrium bidentatum Hemsl]

Two diterpenes were isolated from the herb Teucrium bidentatum and identified as teucvin and teupernin A on the basis of chemical properties and spectral data. They were obtained from T. bidentatum for the first time.

Environmental and occupational determinants of blood pressure in rural communities in China

PURPOSE

To identify and characterize major environmental and occupational determinants of blood pressure in rural communities in China.

METHODS

In 1993 we conducted a large cross-sectional, community-based study of 20,216 residents aged 15 years or older, from the Yijing area of Anhui Province (8022 men, 12,194 women), one of whom were receiving treatment for hypertension. The mean systolic blood pressure was 116.7 +/- 19.5 mmHg for men and 113.2 +/- 19.4 mmHg for women.

RESULTS

The mean diastolic blood pressure was 72.4 +/- 12.1 mmHg for men and 70.4 +/- 11.6 mmHg for women. Age and body mass index were the two most important determinants of blood pressure in this population. With controls for age and body mass index, height and weight remained significant predictors of blood pressure. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that alcohol consumption, self-reported exposure to noise, drinking of tap water and pond water, occupational exposure to dust/fumes/gases, rice consumption, inferior housing, household crowdedness, and being unmarried were related to increased blood pressure levels. Vegetable intake, frequent consumption of meat at meals, high level of physical activity, exposure to straw-combustion smoke, and pesticide use were negatively associated with blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that a broad array of demographic, ergonomic, nutritional, and environmental factors are critical determinants of blood pressure in this rural Chinese population.

All-solid-state tunable DCM dye laser pumped by a diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser

Lasing is observed near 620 nm in a DCM dye doped TiO(2)-content organically modified silicate (ORMOSIL) pumped by frequency-doubled radiation from a diode-pumped Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. The laser wavelength is tunable over 60 nm. A conversion efficiency of 18% is obtained at its central wavelength of 621 nm. The laser output energy has only a 10% reduction after 27,000 pulses at a pump repetition rate of 30 Hz and a pump intensity of 1 J/cm(2). An all-solid-state, compact, long-lifetime, and tunable dye laser has been demonstrated.

pRb controls proliferation, differentiation, and death of skeletal muscle cells and other lineages during embryogenesis

Mice deficient for the RB gene (RB-/-), prior to death at embryonic day 14.5, show increased cell death in all tissues that normally express RB1: the nervous system, liver, lens, and skeletal muscle precursor cells. We have generated transgenic mice (RBlox) that express low levels of pRb, driven by an RB1 minigene. RBlox/RB-/- mutant fetuses die at birth with specific skeletal muscle defects, including increased cell death prior to myoblast fusion, shorter myotubes with fewer myofibrils, reduced muscle fibers, accumulation of elongated nuclei that actively synthesized DNA within the myotubes, and reduction in expression of the late muscle-specific genes MCK and MRF4. Thus, insufficient pRb results in failure of myogenesis in vivo, manifest in two ways. First, the massive apoptosis of myoblasts implicates a role of pRb in cell survival. Second, surviving myotubes failed to develop normally and accumulated large polyploid nuclei, implicating pRb in permanent withdrawal from the cell cycle. These results demonstrate a role for pRb during terminal differentiation of skeletal muscles in vivo and place pRb at a nodal point that controls cell proliferation, differentiation, and death.

Antibodies to presenilin proteins detect neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease

Mutations in the presenilin (PS)-1 and PS-2 genes have been shown to be linked with the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We examined Alzheimer's brain tissue by immunohistochemistry using a set of antibodies raised to sequences shared between PS-1 and PS-2 proteins. These antibodies reacted exclusively with a subset of neurofibrillary tangles and not with neuropil threads or dystrophic neurites. Detection of the presenilin epitope in neurofibrillary tangles was observed in sporadic Alzheimer's disease brain samples and in samples from individuals carrying PS-1 and PS-2 mutations with no qualitative difference. These data indicate that both wild-type and mutant PS proteins are involved in a common pathogenic pathway in AD.