Phenylpropanolamine contained in cold remedies and risk of hemorrhagic stroke

In this study, we sought to elucidate whether phenylpropanolamine (PPA) in cold remedies (small and divided doses) increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (HS). PPA exposure significantly increased the risk, and the risk was much higher in women. In women, linear trends were also found in recency, duration, and dosage of PPA exposure. PPA contained in cold remedies increases the risk of HS, particularly in women.

Vertical profile of algal distribution during aeration prior to intake tower for safe drinking water

Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria comprise a diverse group of organisms, all of which generate potent natural toxins, as well as characteristic odours. In particular, blue-green algae, such as Microcystis and Anabaena, are often detected abundantly in surface water used as a drinking water resource. In order to confirm our ability to provide safe drinking water even during a water bloom, we have conducted an investigation into the vertical distribution of algae during aeration prior to entry into the intake tower at a dam site. Our analysis of the vertical algal distribution during aeration indicated that aeration occurring at the intake tower exerts a significant influence on the safety of the drinking water. It was determined that the discontinuation of aeration and an increase in the depth at which water intake is conducted, constitutes a viable strategy for the maintenance of toxin- and odour-free drinking water, particularly during water bloom events.

Agricultural Employers' Hiring and Safety Practices for Adolescent Workers

The goal of the "Safety Training for Employers and Supervisors of Adolescent Farmworkers" initiative is to improve the occupational health and safety knowledge and practices of agricultural employers and supervisors responsible for employees, ages 14 to 17 years. Surveys were sent to members of the National Council of Agricultural Employers and the Washington Growers League to measure attitudes regarding adolescent employees, current hiring and training practices, and future intentions. More than half of the respondents hire adolescents. Two-thirds were male, nearly three-quarters of the respondents had college or post-graduate degrees, and more than half were 50 years or older. The majority of respondents had positive perceptions of adolescents in terms of dependability, helpfulness, and work ethic. Among those who currently hire young workers, the most common reasons were to provide a job for children of friends and family and because they can work part-time to fill a labor demand. Among those not hiring adolescents, the most common reason was concern about child labor regulations and associated tasks (e.g., paperwork, monitoring hours). Respondents use a variety of safety training resources, especially posters and safety meetings. For the future, they expect to need more handout materials and training videos. Study results provide insights into barriers to the employment of young workers and suggest methods by which agricultural safety specialists can best assist those employers and producers who are willing to hire adolescents into agricultural work settings.

Rapid and comprehensive indicator for evaluation of performance of treatment processes and of river waters

Naturally occurring UV active compounds, commonly present in almost all source waters, can be rapidly monitored by their ultraviolet absorbance at 260 nm (E260). Herein, the extent of correlation between the E260 and the removal efficiency of the hazardous contaminants, endocrine disrupters and dioxins, were investigated using various treatment and river source waters. The detection of various types of hazardous contaminants using sophisticated analytical methods, such as high resolution gas chromatography (HRGC)/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)/inductively coupled plasma (ICP)/mass spectrometry (MS), as well as various short-term bioassays, can require hours or even days for results to be obtained. The removal of the E260 correlated well with those of individual contaminants, such as endocrine disruptor chemicals and dioxins, with the various treatment processes employed. In the plots of the endocrine disrupters against the DOC/E260, a correlation was found with the endocrine activity of the Korean/Japanese river waters employed in this study.

Phosphorus recovery by mesoporous structure material from wastewater

This study was designed to investigate the fundamental aspects of a possible removal of phosphorous from wastewater by using the mesoporous structure materials for wastewater reuse. The zirconium sulphate with mesoporous structure as a new type of ion exchangers was synthesised by hydrothermal reaction. From the results of X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope, it was discovered that the synthesised material had hexagonal mesoporous structure with a pore size of approximately 40-50A. Experimental results showed that the zirconium sulphate with mesoporous structure had very high sorption capacity for the phosphorus. The novel ion exchange occurred between PO4(3-) and SO4(2-), OH-. The amount of phosphate ions exchanged into the solid was as great as 3.4 mmol/g-ZS. Furthermore, it is possible to obtain a higher removal efficiency than other ion exchange media and adsorbents.

Birth of viable female dogs produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer

Since the only viable cloned offspring born in dogs was a male, the purpose of the present study was to produce female puppies by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Adult ear fibroblasts from a 2-month-old female Afghan hound were isolated and used as donor cells. In vivo-matured canine oocytes surgically collected (approximately 72h after ovulation) from the oviducts of 23 donors were used for SCNT. After removal of the cumulus cells, oocytes were enucleated, microinjected, fused with a donor cell, and activated. A total of 167 reconstructed SCNT embryos were surgically transferred (Day 0) into the oviducts of 12 recipient bitches (average 13.9 embryos/recipient, range 6-22) with spontaneous, synchronous estrous cycles. Three pregnancies were detected by ultrasonography on Day 23, maintained to term, and three healthy female puppies (520, 460, and 520g), were delivered by Caesarean section on Day 60. These puppies were phenotypically and genotypically identical to the cell donor. In conclusion, we have provided the first demonstration that female dogs can be produced by nuclear transfer of ear fibroblasts into enucleated canine oocytes.

Inhibitory effects of antioxidant constituents from Melothria heterophylla on matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression in UVA-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to play an important role in photoaging by mediating the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins. To develop a new anti-aging agent for cosmetics from natural products, Melothria heterophylla (Lour.) Cogn. was selected for its antioxidant activity and inhibitory effect on expression of MMP-1 in UVA-irradiated human skin fibroblasts. Two compounds (compounds 1 and 2 ) were isolated from an ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the ethanolic extracts; they were identified as 1,2,4,6-tetra-O-galloyl-beta-(D)-glucopyranose (1) and 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid (2). These compounds were found to scavenge radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and were measured to have SC50 values of 3.9 microM and 13.3 microM against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and values of 4.3 microM and 4.0 microM against superoxide radicals in the xanthine/xanthine oxidase system, respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the expression and activity of MMP-1 in UVA-induced human skin fibroblasts, but no inhibition of MMP-1 mRNA expression. Therefore, we concluded that compounds 1 and 2 significantly inhibited MMP-1 expression at the protein level. Also, these compounds were determined to have a potent antioxidant activity. From these results, we suggest that these compounds might be useful as a new anti-aging agent for photodamaged skin, but the in vitro findings must be verified in in vivo studies.

Evaluation of a MF membrane system composed of pre coagulation-sedimentation and chlorination for water reuse

In this research, we investigated the variation of transmembrane pressure and permeate water quality in pre-coagulation and sedimentation with iron based coagulant, and chlorination of feed water for PVDF (Polyvinylidene fluoride) based MF membrane filtration. NaCIO was fed to the membrane module at a dosage of 0.5 mg/L and maintained during filtration. To observe the effect of raw water, three types of raw and processed waters, including river surface water, coagulated water and coagulated-settled water, were employed. In the case of river surface water, the transmembrane pressure increased abruptly in 500 hours operation. On the contrary, no significant increase in transmembrane pressure was observed for coagulated water and coagulated-settled water for 1200 hours operation. The turbidity of permeate was lower than the detection limit for all applied waters. The removal efficiency for humic substances in coagulated water and coagulated-settled water was approximately ten times higher than that in surface river water. And, the removal efficiency for TOC and DOC was approximately two times higher than that in surface river water. From the results of the operation, it can be observed that it is possible to maintain stable operation at 0.9 m(3)/m(2)-day filtration flux through a combination of pre-coagulation and pre-chlorination. However, the water quality of permeate was the best when the pre-coagulation-sedimentation process was combined with pre-chlorination. With respect to fouling reduction and operation efficiency increase in membrane filtration, the pre-coagulation/sedimentation process is a promising alternative.

New cosmetic agents for skin whitening from Angelica dahurica

To develop a new whitening agent for cosmetics from natural products, Angelica dahurica was selected for its inhibitory effect on melanogenesis in B16 melanoma cells. From the mechanism study, it was clarified that the ethanolic extracts of this plant showed the suppression of tyrosinase synthesis but no inhibition of tyrosinase activity. In order to find the active constituents from this plant, the ethanol extracts were chromatographed repeatedly with silica gel. Two coumarin compounds were isolated from A. dahurica. Their structures were identified by physicochemical and spectral data such as UV, IR, NMR, and MS. It was shown that the active substance was isoimperatorin (10-[(3-methyl-2-butenyl)oxy]-7H-furo[3,2-g][1] benzopyran-7-one) and imperatorin (9-[(3-methyl-2-butenyl)oxy]-7H-furo[3,2-g][1] benzopyran-7-one). They significantly inhibited tyrosinase synthesis in B16 melanoma cells. To elucidate the action mechanism of the active compounds of A. dahurica, we investigated the changes in the mRNA level of tyrosinase using the RT-PCR technique. As a result, the mRNA level of tyrosinase was markedly reduced by active compounds of A. dahurica. From these results, we suggest that these extracts might be useful as a new whitening agent in cosmetics, but the in vitro findings must be verified in in vivo skin-lightening studies.

Induction of interleukin-8 production via nuclear factor-kappaB activation in human intestinal epithelial cells infected with Vibrio vulnificus

Vibrio vulnificus, a Gram-negative estuarine bacterium, is a causative agent of food-borne diseases, such as life-threatening septicaemia and wound infection disease. V. vulnificus penetrating into the epithelial barrier stimulates an inflammatory response in the adjacent mucosa. Therefore, interaction between V. vulnificus and epithelial cells is important for understanding of both the immunology of mucosal surfaces and V. vulnificus. In this study, we investigated the effect and action mechanism of V. vulnificus infection on production of interleukin (IL)-8, a proinflammatory cytokine, in human intestinal epithelial INT-407 cells. V. vulnificus infection significantly induced IL-8 production in a time- and multiplicity of infection (MOI)-dependent manner, as determined by human IL-8 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, V. vulnificus infection significantly increased IL-8 mRNA levels in INT-407 cells, indicating that the increased IL-8 production by V. vulnificus occurred at the transcriptional level. V. vulnificus infection also enhanced IL-8 gene promoter activity in INT-407 cells transiently transfected with IL-8 promoter constructs, but this effect was impaired in INT-407 cells transfected with IL-8 promoter constructs deleted or mutated of a kappaB site. V. vulnificus infection increased the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) binding activity to a kappaB site and the degradation of IkappaB-alpha protein in a time- and a MOI-dependent manner. Furthermore, BAY11-7082, an inhibitor of NF-kappaB activation, significantly reduced the IL-8 production, NF-kappaB binding activity and IkappaB-alpha degradation induced by V. vulnificus infection. Taken together, these results indicate clearly that V. vulnificus infection significantly induces IL-8 production in human intestinal epithelial cells via NF-kappaB activation.

Strain persistence and fluctuation of multiple-antibiotic resistant Campylobacter coli colonizing turkeys over successive production cycles

The dynamics of colonization of turkeys by thermophilic campylobacters that are resistant to multiple antibiotics is poorly understood. In this study, we monitored cecal colonization of turkeys by Campylobacter over three successive production cycles at the same farm. Campylobacter isolated from the ceca was predominantly C. coli in all three flocks. Isolates with two distinct fla types that represented a single clonal group based on pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and that were resistant to multiple antibiotics (tetracycline, streptomycin, ampicillin, erythromycin, kanamycin, nalidixic acid, and ciprofloxacin) predominated throughout the three production cycles. The relative prevalence of each fla type, however, varied significantly from one flock to the next. The repeated isolation of these multiresistant C. coli from successive flocks likely reflected persistence of the organisms in currently unknown reservoirs in the production environment or, alternatively, repeated introduction events followed by establishment of these bacteria in each successive flock.

The analysis of telomere length and telomerase activity in cloned pigs and cows

Inefficiency in the production of cloned animals is most likely due to epigenetic reprogramming errors after somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). In order to investigate whether nuclear reprogramming restores cellular age of donor cells after SCNT, we measured telomere length and telomerase activity in cloned pigs and cattle. In normal pigs and cattle, the mean telomere length was decreased with biological aging. In cloned or transgenic cloned piglets, the mean telomere length was elongated compared to nuclear donor fetal fibroblasts and age-matched normal piglets. In cloned cattle, no increases in mean telomere length were observed compared to nuclear donor adult fibroblasts. In terms of telomerase activity, significant activity was observed in nuclear donor cells and normal tissues from adult or new-born pigs and cattle, with relatively higher activity in the porcine tissues compared to the bovine tissues. Cloned calves and piglets showed the same level of telomerase activity as their respective donor cells. In addition, no difference in telomerase activity was observed between normal and transgenic cloned piglets. However, increased telomerase activity was observed in porcine SCNT blastocysts compared to nuclear donor cells and in vitro fertilization (IVF)-derived blastocysts, suggesting that the elongation of telomere lengths observed in cloned piglets could be due to the presence of higher telomerase activity in SCNT blastocysts. In conclusion, gathering from the comparative studies with cattle, we were able to demonstrate that telomere length in cloned piglets was rebuilt or elongated with the use of cultured donor fetal fibroblasts.

Characterizations of the first flush in storm water runoff from an urban roadway

Storm water runoff from urban roadways contains anthropogenic pollutants, which are mainly generated from traffic-related activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of pollutants from the roadway runoff as well as first flush effects. Storm water runoff was sampled during five storm events from the experimental site in Otsu, Shiga, Japan. From the hydrographs and pollutographs for the roadway runoff, the concentration of pollutants increased with increasing runoff flow in the low flow rate event, but did not significantly increase in the high flow rate event. Moreover, according to the analysis of cumulative pollutant mass versus runoff volume curves from five storm events, the first 50% of the runoff volume transported 62% of TOC and Mo, 60% of SS, 59% of Fe, Mn and Cu, 58% of Ni, 57% of Cd and Pb, 56% of Al, 55% of Zn, and 54% of Cr, as the mean values. The first 30% and 80% of the runoff volume also transported 34-43% mass of the pollutants and 82-88% mass of the pollutants, respectively. This study for storm water runoff may also provide useful information to correctly design treatment facilities, such as detention tanks and ponds, filtration and adsorption systems.

Post-natal changes of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 activator expression in the developing rat cerebellum

cDNA of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) was cloned based on its primary sequence homology to Cdc2 and Cdk2. Cdk5 requires the neuronal Cdk5 activators such as p35 or p39(nck5ai) (p39) for its activity. In this study, we examined post-natal changes in the p39 expression pattern during the development of the rat cerebellum. p39 began to express in somata and dendrites of Purkinje cells at post-natal day 3 (PD3). In particular, at PD12, parasagittal bands (stripes) with p39 immunoreactivity were weakly observed. At PD21, p39-immunoreactive stripes were developed when compared with the PD12 group. At this age stage, p39 immunoreactivity became weak in somata of Purkinje cells, not forming stripes. At PD28, a series of parasagittal bands were more distinct than those of the PD21 group, and p39 immunoreactivity disappeared in Purkinje cells, not forming p39 immunoreactive stripes. In the adults, p39 immunoreactivity in Purkinje cells was similar to that found in the PD28 group which showed that parasagittal bands were very narrow, and became progressively more slender. Therefore, we suggest that the post-natal changes of p39 expression in Purkinje cells in the cerebellum is an autonomous characteristic of Purkinje cells with a role of Cdk5 activators.

Changes in ultraweak photon emission and heart rate variability of epinephrine-injected rats

Ultraweak photons which are spontaneously emitted from a living body may be applicable as a non-invasive tool to characterize the physiological state of the living body. We investigated changes in the intensity of ultraweak photon emission, body temperature and the cardiovascular autonomic activity induced by epinephrine injection to rats. A high dose of epinephrine can make changes to the cardiovascular autonomic activity or body temperature. Photon emission of the dorsal part, rectal temperature and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured from eight Sprague-Dawley rats. The intensities of photon emissions for saline injections, which were used as a control, decreased from 13042+/-71 counts/min at the start of measurements to 8709+/-915 counts/min at 1 h after the injections. In the case with epinephrine injections, the intensity of photon emission reduced slowly from 13361+/-354 counts/min to 11040+/-433 counts/min. Rectal temperature increased in both saline- and epinephrine-injected rats, but one hour after the injections the temperature in the epinephrine case was slightly higher than that in the saline case. The standard deviation of the QRS wave complex interval (RR interval) increased from 1 to 4 (p<0.05) and the spectral ratio of the low frequency component to the high frequency component in the HRV data LF (0.19 approximately 0.74 Hz) / HF (0.78 approximately 2.50 Hz) decreased from 0.81 to 0.26 (p<0.05) in the case of epinephrine injection while no change was found in the case of saline injection. Thus, ultraweak photon emission was closely related to the cardiovascular autonomic activity.

Influence of exposure to electromagnetic field on the cardiovascular system

1 We examined whether extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) affect the basal level of cardiovascular parameters and influence of drugs acting on the sympathetic nervous system. 2 Male rats were exposed to sham control and EMF (60 Hz, 20 G) for 1 (MF-1) or 5 days (MF-5). We evaluated the alterations of blood pressure (BP), pulse pressure (PP), heart rate (HR), and the PR interval, QRS interval and QT interval on the electrocardiogram and dysrhythmic ratio in basal level and dysrhythmia induced by beta-adrenoceptor agonists. 3 In terms of the basal levels, there were no statistically significant differences among control, MF-1 and MF-5 in PR interval, QRS interval, mean BP, HR and PP. However, the QT interval, representing ventricular repolarization, was significantly reduced by MF-1 (P < 0.05). 4 (-)-Dobutamine (beta1-adrenoceptor-selective agonist)-induced tachycardia was significantly suppressed by ELF-EMF exposure in MF-1 for the increase in HR (DeltaHR), the decrease in QRS interval (DeltaQRS) and the decrease in QT (DeltaQT) interval. Adrenaline (nonselective beta-receptor agonist)-induced dysrhythmia was also significantly suppressed by ELF-EMF in MF-1 for the number of missing beats, the dysrhythmic ratio, and the increase in BP and PP. 5 These results indicated that 1-day exposure to ELF-EMF (60 Hz, 20 G) could suppress the increase in HR by affecting ventricular repolarization and may have a down-regulatory effect on responses of the cardiovascular system induced by sympathetic agonists.

Deep vein thrombosis assessment clinic: Evaluation of a new working practice

Suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common reason for medical referral to hospital. We evaluated our new approach to assessment of DVT using combined automated strain gauge plethysmography and pretest probability score in comparison with venous ultrasonography in 100 consecutive patients with suspected DVT referred to the nurse-led clinic. The combined plethysmography and pretest probability score produced a negative predictive value of 99%, positive predictive value 53%, sensitivity 94% and specificity 83% for detection of a DVT. We conclude that our new working practice for DVT assessment is both safe and cost effective and can lead to a reduction in venous ultrasonography of approximately 70%.

A new installation for treatment of road runoff: up-flow filtration by porous polypropylene media

We installed a new device on a paved road to treat runoff from a roadway surface. All the stormwater runoff was transferred into the device and the runoff equivalent to 10 mm/hr or less was treated. The treatment method consists of sedimentation and up-flow filtration with porous polypropylene (PPL) processes. The treated runoff was discharged into the existing storm drainage pipe. The average removal efficiency of the initial runoff at the beginning of rainfall which has high pollution intensity was about 90% for SS, about 70% for COD, about 40% for total phosphorus (T-P), about 80% for Pb and Cd, about 70% for Zn, Cu, Mn and Cr, and about 60% for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The overall removal efficiencies of the experiment that ran for four months remained > 60% of SS, > 40% of COD, > 60% of heavy metals, and > 40% of PAHs. The PPL is excellent for removing smaller size particulates of suspended solids, which originate basically from diesel exhaust, as well as larger size particulates from automobile tires, asphalt roads, and other accumulated source(s) of clay and sand, etc.

The effect of PDE5 inhibition on the erectile function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor, DA-8159, on erectile function throughout the quantitative analysis of vascular endothelial cell, smooth muscle (SM), TGF-beta1 expression in rat corpus cavernosum and measurement of intracavernous pressure (ICP) in diabetic rats. DA-8159 (0, 5, 10, 20 mg/kg) was administered orally once a day to diabetic rats. After 8 weeks, immunohistochemistry and computerized image analysis were performed to quantify the percent area within the Corpora Cavernosa occupied by the endothelial cells, SM cells and fibrotic tissues. ICP/mean arterial pressure (MAP) was also measured by electrostimulation of the cavernous nerve. Diabetic rats showed a significant decrease in the SM and endothelial cell content, and an increase in the TGF-beta1 expression level within the cavernosa areas compared to the normal rats. The mean cavernous SM, endothelial cell content and TGF-beta1 expression level were 9.7+/-0.7, 4.5+/-0.7 and 17.9+/-2.1%, respectively. DA-8159 prevented reduction of SM (12.3+/-0.4% (5 mg/kg), 13.8+/-0.4% (20 mg/kg)) and endothelial cell content (5.6+/-0.5% (5 mg/kg), 6.3+/-0.6% (20 mg/kg)). Immunoreactivity of TGF-beta1 and intracorporal fibrosis were also significantly lower in DA-8159-treated groups (11.8+/-1.2% (5 mg/kg), 9.5+/-1.1% (20 mg/kg)). Electrostimulation of the cavernous nerve induced significant increase in maximum ICP (62.2+/-13.6 mmHg in 10 mg/kg vs 37.5+/-17.5 mmHg in diabetic group) and area under the curve of the ratio of ICP/MAP (8891.09+/-1957 in 10 mg/kg vs 6315.87+/-2272 in diabetic group). These results suggest that subchronic treatment of DA-8159 can prevent the development of erectile dysfunction (ED), and provides a rationale for the use of DA-8159 as treatment of diabetic ED.

Effects of amino acids on maturation, fertilization and embryo development of pig follicular oocytes in two IVM media

This study was conducted to develop a serum-free, defined medium for IVM of pig oocytes. Modified North Carolina State University (mNCSU)-23 media with or without supplementation with both epidermal growth factor (EGF) and gonadotrophin were used as base media. In separate experiments, each base medium was supplemented with porcine follicular fluid (pFF), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), PVA and essential amino acids (EAA), PVA and nonessential amino acids (NEAA) or PVA with both EAA and NEAA. Averaged across these five treatments, the percentage of blastocyst formation was higher (P < 0.05) in the base medium supplemented with EGF and gonadotrophins. In both base media, the addition of NEAA yielded similar percentages of maturation (81-82% versus 75-80%), sperm penetration (89-93% versus 80-86%) and blastocyst formation (4-18% versus 4-13%) as media supplemented with pFF. Although similar benefits were found after the addition of EAA, their addition was associated with lower (P < 0.05) maturation (66%) and sperm penetration (58%) than when pFF was added to the base medium without EGF and gonadotrophins. However, decreased maturation after EAA addition was not detected in the base medium containing EGF and gonadotrophins. Within the same base medium, monospermy, male pronucleus formation, cleavage and blastocyst formation were not affected by the treatments; and combined addition of EAA and NEAA did not further improve oocyte development. In conclusion, a maturation system using a defined mNCSU-23 medium supplemented with EGF, gonadotrophins and EAA or NEAA was developed which yielded a similar number of blastocysts compared with a pFF-containing medium.

Campylobacter colonization of sibling turkey flocks reared under different management conditions

Uncertainty exists concerning the key factors contributing to Campylobacter colonization of poultry, especially the possible role of vertical transmission from breeder hens to young birds. A longitudinal study of Campylobacter colonization was performed in two sibling pairs of turkey flocks (four flocks total). Each pair of sibling flocks shared breeder hen populations and was obtained from the same hatchery. One flock of each pair was grown on a commercial farm, and the other was grown in an instructional demonstration unit (Teaching Animal Unit [TAU]). Flocks were located within a 60-mi (96.8-km) radius. The time of placement, feed formulations, stocking density, and general husbandry were the same for both flocks, and each flock was processed at a commercial processing plant following standard feed withdrawal and transport protocols. Both flocks grown on the commercial farms became colonized with Campylobacter between weeks 2 and 3 and remained colonized until processing. Between 80 and 90% of isolates were Campylobacter coli, and the remainder were Campylobacter jejuni. In contrast, neither C. coli nor C. jejuni were isolated from either of the TAU flocks at any time during the production cycle. None of the fla types of Campylobacter from the breeders that provided poults to one of the commercial flocks matched those from the progeny. These results failed to provide evidence for vertical transmission and indicate that this type of transmission either did not occur or was not sufficient to render the TAU turkey flocks Campylobacter positive. Management practices such as proper litter maintenance, controlled traffic between the TAU farm and other turkey flocks, and other less well-defined aspects of turkey production were likely responsible for the absence of Campylobacter in the TAU flocks before harvest.

Expression of the hepatitis B surface S and preS2 antigens in tubers of Solanum tuberosum

In an attempt to develop an edible vaccine, we transformed a recombinant hepatitis B virus (HBV) gene encoding the middle protein of HBV that contains the surface S and preS2 antigen into potato by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The HBV gene was under control of either the CaMV 35S promoter, the double 35S promoter with the AlMV 5' non-translated leader sequence, or the tuber-specific patatin promoter. HBV mRNA levels were higher with the 35S promoter than with the double 35S and patatin promoters; however, the levels of the S and preS2 antigen in the transformed tubers were higher with the patatin promoter than with the CaMV 35S and double promoters. The levels of preS2 antigen produced are the highest reported to date. Transgenic potato tubers were fed to mice, and the mice showed an immune response against the HBV S antigen.

Comparative analysis on the 5'-untranslated region of bovine viral diarrhea virus isolated in Korea

Samples of 249 bovine abortuses, one intestine, and four diarrheal stools from 254 cows were collected, and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Subsequently, virus isolation was preformed with PCR-positive samples, and then PCR product of 5^′-untranslated region (UTR) of BVDV isolate was sequenced and analyzed. Among the samples collected, 20 (from 17 bovine abortuses, one intestine, and two diarrheal stools) were positive for BVDV RT-PCR; four BVDVs (from two bovine abortuses, one intestine, and one diarrheal stool) were isolated. When the four isolates were biotyped in cell culture, one BVDV isolate from a bovine abortus was cytopathic and the others were non-cytopathic. In addition, three isolates were genotyped as BVDV-1 and one isolate from a diarrheal stool as BVDV-2. In phylogenetic analysis, it suggested that the BVDV-2 isolate in Korea is closer to the North American strains than Asian strains. This is the first report on the identification and isolation of BVDV-2 in Korea.

Incidence of apoptosis in clone embryos and improved development by the treatment of donor somatic cells with putative apoptosis inhibitors

This study was conducted to promote in vitro-development of clone embryos by the treatment of donor somatic cells with hemoglobin (Hb) and/or beta-mercaptoethanol (ME), based on the analysis of apoptosis after somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Prospective, randomized study was conducted and, in vitro-matured bovine oocytes and fetal fibroblasts were provided for SCNT. In the first series of experiment, embryo apoptosis after SCNT was monitored by a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d-UTP nick end-labeling assay. As results, apoptosis occurred more (P < 0.05) frequently after SCNT than after in vitro-fertilization (IVF) of control treatment. Subsequently, donor somatic cells treated with Hb (1 microg/ml) and/or ME (10 microM) were provided for SCNT. Either Hb or ME greatly reduced apoptosis (0.083 +/- 0.006 vs. 0.058-0.068 +/- 0.005), while combined treatment did not. ME was more promotive than Hb; significant increases were found in morula compaction (86%), cell numbers of blastocyst (131.3 +/- 1.3 cells/blastocyst), and inner cell mass (31.9 +/- 0.8 cells/blastocyst) cell, and the ratio of inner cell mass to trophectodermal cell numbers (0.24 +/- 0.01). In conclusion, the treatment of donor somatic cells with ME or Hb could reduce apoptosis after SCNT, resulting improved preimplantation development.

Double pylorus

Double pylorus (DP) or duplication of the pylorus is an uncommon condition that is either congenital or acquired. Acquired double pylorus (DP) results from a peptic ulcer eroding through and creating a fistula between the duodenal bulb and the distal stomach. We report a case of an acquired double pylorus in an adult gentleman that resulted from the erosion of a duodenal and prepyloric ulcer.

Effects of activation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes on airway goblet cell mucin release in a co-culture system

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Effects of activated PMN on airway goblet cell mucin release were investigated using a co-culture system in which both tracheal surface epithelial (TSE) cells and PMN from hamsters were present.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TSE cells were metabolically labeled using (3)H-glucosamine and chased in the presence of PMN under various experimental designs. PMN were obtained from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of hamsters following intratracheal instillation of E. coli endotoxin. The amount of (3)H-mucin was measured by Sepharose CL-4B gel-filtration column chromatography.

RESULTS

(i). activation of 10(6) PMN by fMLP (0.1 microM) and cytochalasin B (0.1 microM) resulted in production of both the estrolytic ("elastolytic") activity and superoxide, (ii). activation of PMN in the co-culture stimulated mucin release from TSE cells followed by a significant degradation of the released mucins, both of which were blocked in a dose-dependent fashion by pretreatment with alpha1-protease inhibitor, and (iii). generation of varying concentrations of superoxide in the TSE cell culture did not affect mucin release from TSE cells.

CONCLUSION

In the co-culture system, activation of PMN results in release and degradation of mucins, both of which are almost entirely accounted for by serine proteases but not other cellular products such as superoxide.

Effect of maturation media and oocytes derived from sows or gilts on the development of cloned pig embryos

In order to develop a culture system and recipient cytoplasm that could improve the developmental competence of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos for successful cloning of pigs, we evaluated the effect of donor oocytes and in vitro maturation (IVM) media on maturation of oocytes and developmental competence of SCNT embryos. In Experiment 1, oocytes derived from sows or gilts were matured in two IVM media (TCM-199 versus NCSU-23) and maturation of oocytes was evaluated by the status of chromatin configuration, the diameter of matured oocytes, the thickness of the zona pellucida, and the size of the perivitelline space (PVS). Sow oocytes matured in TCM-199 (S-TCM group) and NCSU-23 (S-NCSU group) showed significantly higher (P<0.05) maturation rates (S-TCM and S-NSCU, 86+/-4 and 82+/-4%, respectively) when evaluated by metaphase-II status than the gilt oocytes matured in TCM-199 (G-TCM group, 71+/-3%) and in NCSU-23 (G-NCSU-23 group, 71+/-3%). Oocyte diameter, the thickness of the zona pellucida, and the perivitelline space of sow oocytes (S-TCM and S-NCSU) were larger than those of gilt oocytes (G-TCM and G-NCSU) after IVM (P<0.05). In Experiment 2, SCNT was performed, using in vitro-matured oocytes from each group as recipient cytoplasm and porcine fetal fibroblasts as karyoplasts. The reconstructed embryos were electrically fused and activated, and cleavage and blastocyst formation were monitored under a stereomicroscope. The total cell number of flattened blastocysts stained with 5 microM bisbenzimide on day 7 were counted. In addition, in vitro matured non-enucleated oocytes were also electrically activated (parthenogenetic activation) and pronuclear formation was monitored. No difference in pronuclear formation rate after parthenogenetic activation and fusion rate after SCNT was observed among experimental groups. A significantly higher cleavage rate (P<0.05) was observed in S-TCM (69+/-4%) when compared with only G-NCSU (58+/-4%), but not with G-TCM (60+/-4%) or S-NCSU (68+/-4%). The rate of blastocyst formation was significantly higher (P<0.05) in sow oocytes (24% in S-TCM and S-NCSU), when compared to that observed in G-TCM (15%), and G-NCSU (14%). When the same source of oocytes was used, there was no significant difference in rate of blastocyst formation in the two culture media. Total cell number of blastocysts were not significantly different among experimental groups. In conclusion, the present study clearly demonstrated that sow oocytes have a greater developmental competence than gilt oocytes, regardless of the maturation medium examined.

The PPL filtration treatment for highway runoff

The purpose of this research is to design a device which can treat highway runoff, especially runoff during initial rainfall with high pollution intensity, by connecting it with the draining grid sink of a drainage ditch on a highway, through which runoff flows. Porous polypropylene (PPL) particles were used as a treatment agent. The device treated highway runoff during initial rainfall by filtration and adsorption. It had a capacity to treat highway runoff in an area of 7.0 m x 20.0 m when rainfall intensity was up to 10 mm/hr. Two cases of rainfall intensity were set for the experiment: 5 and 10 mm/hr. The relationships between the efficiency of SS and COD removals and the rainfall intensity were investigated. Using artificial highway runoff with constant flow and SS concentration, results of 70% or more of SS removal with 5 mm/hr and 50% or more with 10 mm/hr were obtained. COD removal efficiency was about 90% of SS removal efficiency. This device was effective to remove non-point source pollutants in runoff on highways.

Optimization of culture medium for cloned bovine embryos and its influence on pregnancy and delivery outcome

This study was conducted to establish an effective culture system for supporting in vitro development of cloned bovine embryos and to evaluate whether improved development in the optimal culture system could contribute to enhancing pregnancy and delivery outcomes after transfer. Enucleated oocytes at the metaphase II stage were reconstructed with serum-starved ear fibroblasts and cloned embryos were subsequently cultured for 168 h in vitro. In Experiment 1, cloned embryos were cultured in either modified Charles Rosenkrans 2 amino acid medium (mCR2aa) or modified synthetic oviduct fluid medium (mSOF). More (P < 0.05) 2-cell embryos (78% versus 92%), morulae (51% versus 69%) and blastocysts (2% versus 39%) were obtained after culture in mSOF than after culture in mCR2aa. In Experiment 2, cloned embryos were successively cultured in mSOF supplemented with various macromolecules during different periods of culture. A successive culture of oocytes in BSA-containing medium for 72 h and then in FBS-containing medium for the next 96 h yielded a higher rate of blastocyst formation (49% versus 25-36%) than other combinations (BSA to BSA or PVA to PVA, BSA or FBS). This macromolecule supplementation also significantly increased the number of total blastomeres (117.3 cells/blastocyst) and inner cell mass cells (ICM, 49.7 cells/blastocyst), and the ratio of ICM cells to trophoblast cells (TB, 0.98). In Experiment 3, a total of 85 blastocysts obtained from each 2-step culture were transferred individually to recipient cows at the end of the culture period and 32 pregnancies (38%) were diagnosed on Day 60 after transfer. However, no (P > 0.05) significant differences due to culture were apparent in the pregnancy outcome. Although six calves were produced using the 2-step culture regime of either BSA-BSA or PVA-FBS, no calves were produced using the successive culture of BSA then FBS, which optimized preimplantation development. In conclusion, mSOF has more potential to support the development of clone embryos than mCR2aa, and successive supplementation of BSA and FBS to mSOF further promotes blastocyst formation. However, enhanced development in vitro might not directly contribute to improving pregnancy outcomes.

Association of calpain-10 gene with microvascular function

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Genotype could influence vascular function. In some populations, Calpain 10 gene polymorphisms increase susceptibility to diabetes or insulin resistance. Alterations in microvascular function could contribute to insulin resistance. This study investigated whether polymorphisms in the Calpain-10 gene influence microvascular function.

METHODS

Skin maximum microvascular hyperaemia to local heating on the dorsum of the foot (30 min at 43 degrees C) was measured by Laser Doppler Fluximetry in 37 healthy volunteers. All were normoglycaemic according to World Health Organisation criteria, normotensive and not on any medication. Four polymorphisms in the calpain-10 gene were typed: SNP-44, SNP-43, SNP-19, SNP-63. The SNP common to all the described high risk haplotypes is the G-allele at SNP-43. This intron 3 polymorphism appears to influence gene expression. Microvascular function was examined in relation to polymorphisms at this site alone as well as the effects of the known extended high risk haplotypes using the SNP's above.

RESULTS

Maximum microvascular hyperaemia was increased in the 21 subjects with G/G genotypes at SNP-43 compared to the combined group of subjects ( G/ A genotype at SNP-43 ( n=12) + A/ A genotype at SNP-43 ( n=4)), and the minimum microvascular resistance was reduced 49.4 (39.6-94.2) vs 67.5 (39.1-107.3) mmHg/V, p=0.007). Haplotype analysis of the hyperaemic response revealed no significant differences between haplotypes. The two groups did not differ in terms of anthropometric measures, blood pressure, insulin resistance or glucose.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

The polymorphism that confers susceptibility to Type II (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus in some populations is associated in United Kingdom Caucasians with enhanced microvascular function in the presence of normoglycaemia.

Development of bovine oocytes reconstructed with different donor somatic cells with or without serum starvation

We conducted this study to examine whether serum starvation in culture contributes to better development of bovine reconstructed oocytes and to evaluate which serum-starved somatic cell is the most effective for cloned calf production. In Experiment 1, donor cells of four different types (cumulus cells, ear fibroblasts, oviduct cells and uterine cells) were either serum-starved or not before fusion with enucleated oocytes, and reconstructed oocytes were further cultured for 168 h. Regardless of serum starvation, cumulus cells or ear fibroblasts yielded higher (P < 0.05) rates of fusion than other cells (62.6-69.3 versus 33.3-38.7%). In the serum-starved group, the first cleavage after reconstruction was significantly increased in cumulus cells and ear fibroblasts, compared with oviduct cells (93.4-94.3 versus 78.8-86.0%), and oocytes reconstructed with either of these yielded more blastocysts than oocytes reconstructed with oviduct or uterine cells (40.6-43.8 versus 20.3-19.0%). We observed a similar pattern in the non-starved group, but we found a significant increase in blastocyst formation was found only in cumulus cells compared with other donor cells (42.6 versus 15.4-27.7%). Overall comparison showed that serum starvation increased the rates of cleavage and development to the blastocyst stage, but we found a statistical significance only in the cleavage rate (80.0 versus 89.5%). In Experiment 2, we transferred randomly selected 59 blastocysts that were developed from oocytes reconstructed with serum-starved cells to 44 synchronised recipients. Of those recipients, 23 became pregnant on Day 60 after transfer (52.3%) and 12 (27.3%) delivered cloned calves. The mean gestation length and birth weight was 275 +/- 8 days and 39.6 +/- 15.6 kg, respectively. Although there was no significant difference among donor cells, blastocysts that were derived from oocytes reconstructed with ear fibroblasts yielded the highest rates of pregnancy (50.0%) and delivery (27.3%). In conclusion, serum starvation is effective for improving preimplantation development of oocytes reconstructed with cumulus or ear fibroblast cells and it may positively influence on obtaining better pregnancy outcome.

Encephalomyelitis associated with akabane virus infection in adult cows

Between August and September 2000, five 2-7-year-old cows in Korea exhibited neurologic signs and were diagnosed as infected with Akabane virus based on the results of histopathology, immunohistochemistry, serology, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR were equally effective and sensitive for diagnosing Akabane virus infection during the early stage of infection. Typical lymphohistiocytic inflammation characterized by perivascular mononuclear cell infiltration, gliosis, neuronophagia, and neuronal loss was noted in the brain and the ventral horn gray matter of the spinal cord. The lesions in the brain were most prominent in the pons and medulla oblongata. Akabane virus antigen was detected in the brain and spinal cord, mainly in degenerating neurons and glial cells. RT-PCR analysis revealed a target band of expected size in four cows. This is the first report on an outbreak of natural Akabane virus infection in adult cattle.

Effects of sex hormones on Na+/glucose cotransporter of renal proximal tubular cells following oxidant injury

It was reported that reactive oxygen metabolites play an important role in the pathogenesis of several renal diseases including glomerulonephritis, ischemia and acute tubular necrosis. However, the effect of oxidants and protective effect of sex steroid hormones on Na+/glucose cotransporter of renal proximal tubular cells is not yet elucidated. In the present study, we examined the effect of sex steroid hormones against tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced alteration of Na+/glucose cotransporter activity in primary cultured rabbit renal proximal tubule cells (PTCs). t-BHP inhibited alpha-methyl-D-glucopyranoside (alpha-MG) uptake in a dose-dependent manner. t-BHP-induced inhibition of alpha-MG uptake was due not to Km but to the decrease of Vmax. 0.5 mM t-BHP-induced inhibition of alpha-MG uptake was significantly blocked by estradiol-17beta, but not by progesterone and testosterone. This protective effect was not blocked by estrogen receptor antagonist or transcription and translation inhibitor. In addition, 0.5 mM t-BHP increased [3H]-arachidonic acid (AA) release and Ca2+ uptake. These effects of t-BHP were also significantly blocked by estradiol-17beta, but not by progesterone and testosterone. Protective efficacy of estradiol-17beta on t-BHP-induced inhibition of alpha-MG uptake is exhibited between antioxidants and iron chelators. In conclusion, estradiol-17beta, but not progesterone and testosterone, partially prevented t-BHP-induced inhibition of alpha-MG uptake through its antioxidant activity dependent upon phenol structures and inhibition of AA release and Ca2+ influx.

Mimic of photocycle by a protein folding reaction in photoactive yellow protein

The blue light receptor photoactive yellow protein (PYP) displays rhodopsin-like photochemistry based on the trans to cis photoisomerization of its p-coumaric acid chromophore. Here, we report that protein refolding from the acid-denatured state of PYP mimics the last photocycle transition in PYP. This implies a direct link between transient protein unfolding and photosensory signal transduction. We utilize this link to study general issues in protein folding. Chromophore trans to cis photoisomerization in the acid-denatured state strongly decelerates refolding, and converts the pH dependence of the barrier for refolding from linear to nonlinear. We propose transition state movement to explain this phenomenon. The cis chromophore significantly stabilizes the acid-denatured state, but acidification of PYP results in the accumulation of the acid-denatured state containing a trans chromophore. This provides a clear example of kinetic control in a protein unfolding reaction. These results demonstrate the power of PYP as a light-triggered model system to study protein folding.

Effects of lipids on the interaction of SecA with model membranes

The effects of nonlamellar-prone lipids, diacylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), on the kinetic association of SecA with model membranes were examined by measuring changes in the intrinsic emission fluorescence with a stopped-flow apparatus. Upon interaction with standard liposomes composed of 50 mol% dioleolyphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) and 50 mol% of dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), the intrinsic fluorescence intensity of SecA was decreased after a lapse of time with a rate constant of 0.0049 s(-1). When the DOPC of the standard vesicles was gradually replaced with either dioeloyl PE (DOPE) or Escherichia coli (E. coli) PE, the rate constant increased appreciably as a function of PE concentration, in the order DOPE > E. coli PE. In addition, when the PE of E. coli PE/DOPG (50/50) vesicles was replaced with more than 5 mol% dioleoylglycerol (DOG), the rate constant further increased by 40%. The incorporation of nonlamellar-prone lipids in the vesicles also enhanced the binding of SecA to model membranes in the order DOPE > or = E. coli PE/DOG > E. coli PE > DOPC. These results provide the first kinetic evidence for the importance of nonlamellar-prone phospholipids for the association rate of SecA with membranes.

Prenatal exposure to magnetic field increases dopamine levels in the striatum of offspring

1. The putative effects of prenatal exposure to magnetic field (MF) have recently received much interest. In the present study, mice were exposed to a MF of 50 mT during gestation (0-19 days). 2. After the exposure was terminated, mothers and offspring were returned to normal laboratory conditions. We then determined changes in striatal levels of dopamine (DA) and its metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the offspring. 3. Our results indicate that prenatal exposure to MF increases levels of DA and DOPAC in the striatum at 4, 8 and 12 weeks postnatally.

Normal brain maturation during childhood: developmental trends characterized with diffusion-tensor MR imaging

PURPOSE

To characterize the maturational changes in water diffusion within central gray matter nuclei and central white matter pathways of the human brain by using diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of normal MR examination findings in 153 subjects (age range, 1 day to 11 years) referred for clinical neuroimaging was performed. All studies included diffusion tensor-encoded echo-planar MR imaging. Isotropic diffusion coefficient (D) and diffusion anisotropy (A(sigma)) were measured in the corpus callosum, internal capsule, caudate nucleus, lentiform nucleus, and thalamus.

RESULTS

exhibited biexponential decay with age in gray and white matter regions, except for monoexponential decay in the genu of the corpus callosum. There was a steep nonlinear increase of A(sigma) in white matter tracts that paralleled the time course of the decline in D. In basal ganglia, only a small linear increase in A(sigma) was observed in patients. A(sigma) changes in the thalamus were intermediate between basal ganglia and white matter structures.

CONCLUSION

Changes in magnitude and anisotropy of water diffusion follow stereotypical time courses during brain development that can be empirically described with multiexponential regression models, which suggests that quantitative scalar parameters derived from diffusion-tensor MR imaging may provide clinically useful developmental milestones for brain maturity.

Cytoprotective effect of Scutellaria baicalensis in CA1 hippocampal neurons of rats after global cerebral ischemia

Based on the use of Scutellaria baicalensis for the treatment of stroke in traditional Oriental medicine, the current study was carried out to evaluate neuroprotective effects of S. baicalensis after transient global ischemia using rat 4-vessel occlusion model. Methanol extracts from the dried roots of S. baicalensis (0.1-10 mg/kg) administered intra-peritoneally significantly protected CA1 neurons against 10 min transient forebrain ischemia as demonstrated by measuring the density of neuronal cells stained with Cresyl violet. Methanol extract of S. baicalensis inhibited microglial tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and nitric oxide production, and protected PC12 cells from hydrogen peroxide-induced toxicity in vitro.

Development of porcine oocytes from preovulatory follicles of different sizes after maturation in media supplemented with follicular fluids

The development of porcine oocytes from large (3.1-8.0 mm in diameter) or small (<3.1 mm) follicles was examined after maturation culture in medium containing porcine follicular fluid (pFF). Large follicles yielded larger (256 microm v. 221 microm; P<0.05) cumulus-oocyte complexes and more (22 v. 14%) morphologically normal oocytes than small follicles (Experiment 1). In Experiments 2-4, maturation media supplemented with mixed pFF (10%) from small and large follicles was used. More oocytes from large follicles matured (58% v. 91%), formed pronuclei (81% v. 90%) and developed to the blastocyst stage (2% v. 10%) than oocytes from small follicles. In Experiments 5-7, the effects of pFF collected from either small or large follicles on oocyte development were examined. Regardless of the source of oocytes, large-follicle-derived pFF more significantly enhanced preimplantation development than did small-follicle-derived pFF. The highest rate of blastocyst formation (16%) was found when oocytes from large follicles were cultured in maturation medium containing large-follicle-derived pFF. These results suggest that oocytes from large follicles have greater developmental potential than oocytes from small follicles, and that the origin of pFF, which is added to the maturation media, might be an important factor for improving in vitro development of porcine oocytes.

The influences of extremely low frequency magnetic fields on clonidine-induced sleep in 2-day-old chicks

1. It has been shown that magnetic fields (MFs) affect a variety of biological effects in animal brains. There have been few experiments on the effects of MFs on sleep. Therefore, we investigated whether extremely low frequency (ELF) MFs affect the sleep induced by clonidine, a central alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist. Clonidine produced dose-related increase of the sleeping time and dose-related decrease of the onset time in 2-day-old chicks. 2. Exposure of chicks to MFs (5, 10, 20 G; for 3, 6, 9, 12 h) significantly increased the clonidine-induced sleep time as a direct function of intensity and duration of MF application. Clonidine reduced noradrenaline or tyrosine in the brain, an effect which was not further changed in animals exposed to MF. 3. To determine whether the gamma amino butyric acid A (GABA(A))/benzodiazepine (BZD) receptor system is involved in the decrease in clonidine-induced sleep caused by activation of central alpha(2)-adrenergic systems, we examined exposure of chicks to the effects of the BZD receptor antagonist flumazenil (0.5 mg kg(-1), i.p.) and GABA(A) antagonist bicuculline (0.1 mg kg-1, i.p.) on clonidine-induced sleep. Bicuculline and flumazenil inhibited the increase of clonidine-induced sleep time by MFs. Clonidine or MFs did not change GABA levels in the brain. 4. These results suggest that MFs can increase clonidine-induced sleep via a change of GABA(A) and BZD receptor system irrespective of the concentration of GABA or noradrenaline in the brain of 2-day-old chicks.

Effect of IP3 and ryanodine treatments on the development of bovine parthenogenetic and reconstructed embryos

For parthenogenetic activation as a model system of nuclear transfer, microinjection and electroporation as activation treatments in bovine metaphase II oocytes were administered to each of three groups as follows: control group (treatments with Ca2+, Mg2+ -free PBS+100 micro M EGTA), IP3 group (control+25 micro M IP3) and IP3+ ryanodine group (control+25 micro M IP3+10 mM ryanodine). In experiments using microinjection, no significant differences were observed between any of the developmental stages of the electroporation experiment. For electroporation, cleavage rates were significantly higher in the IP3+ryanodine group than in the IP3 or control group (85.6% vs 73.7% or 67.6%, respectively). In the subsequent stages of embryonic development, such as morula and blastocyst formation, the IP3 and ryanodine group exhibited significantly higher rates of morula fomation than the IP3 or control groups (40.6% vs 24.2% or 16.7%, respectively). Similarly, the rate of blastocyst formation in the IP3+ryanodine group was significantly higher than the control group (16.3% vs 6.9%) but did not differ significantly from the IP3 group (16.3% vs 9.5%). In nuclear transfer, activation was performed at 30 hpm by microinjection and elecroporation with 25 micro M IP3+ 10 mM ryanodine followed by 6-DMAP treatment. No significant differences were observed at any stage of embryonic development and none of the embryos activated by electroporation reached either the morula or blastocyst stage. However, 3.8% and 1.9% of embryos activated by microinjection sucessfully developed to the morula and blastocyst stages, respectively. In conclusion, activation treatments using IP3 and ryanodine are able to support the development of bovine parthenogenetic and reconstructed embryos.

Folding and signaling share the same pathway in a photoreceptor

The photoreceptor photoactive yellow protein (PYP) was used as a model system to study receptor activation and protein folding. Refolding was studied by stopped-flow absorbance spectroscopy for PYP with either a trans or a cis chromophore. Chromophore trans to cis isomerization, the mechanism of light detection by PYP, greatly affects the protein folding process. When the cis chromophore is present, refolding from the unfolded state proceeds through the putative signaling state of PYP as an on-pathway intermediate. In addition, moderate denaturant concentrations result in the specific unfolding of the signaling state of PYP. Thus, the signaling state is common to the pathways of folding and signaling. This result provides an avenue for the study of protein folding. We demonstrate how this approach can be used to establish whether a folding intermediate is on-pathway or off-pathway. The results also reveal transient partial unfolding as a molecular mechanism for signaling.

Reorganization of nuclear factors during myeloid differentiation

Differentiation in several stem cell systems is associated with major morphological changes in global nuclear shape. We studied the fate of inner-nuclear structures, splicing factor-rich foci and Cajal (coiled) bodies in differentiating hemopoietic, testis and skin tissues. Using antibodies to the splicing factors PSF, U2AF(65) and snRNPs we find that these proteins localize in foci throughout the nuclei of immature bone marrow cells. Yet, when granulocytic cells differentiate and their nuclei condense and become segmented, the staining localizes in a unique compact and thread-like structure. The splicing factor-rich foci concentrate in the interior of these nuclei while the nuclear periphery and areas of highly compact chromatin remain devoid of these molecules. Differentiated myeloid cells do not stain for p80 coilin, the marker for Cajal bodies. Immature myeloid cells contain Cajal bodies although these usually do not coloclaize with PSF-rich foci. Following complete inhibition of transcription in myeloid cells, the threaded PSF pattern becomes localized in several foci in the different lobes of mature granulocytes while in human HL-60 immature myeloid leukemia cells PSF is found in the perinucleolar compartment. Studies of other differentiating stem cell systems show that PSF staining disappears completely in differentiated, transcriptionally inactive sperm cells, is scarce as cells migrate from the inner skin layers outward and is lost as cells of the hair follicle mature. We conclude that the formation and distribution of splicing factor-rich foci in the nucleus during differentiation of various cell lineages is dependent on the levels of chromatin condensation and the differentiation status of the cell.

Skin microvascular vasodilatory capacity in offspring of two parents with Type 2 diabetes

AIMS

Microvascular dysfunction occurs in Type 2 diabetes and in subjects with fasting hyperglycaemia. It is unclear whether this dysfunction relates to dysglycaemia. This study investigated in normogylcaemic individuals whether a genetic predisposition to diabetes, or indices of insulin resistance including endothelial markers, were associated with impaired microvascular function.

METHODS

Maximum microvascular hyperaemia to local heating of the skin was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry in 21 normoglycaemic subjects with no family history of diabetes (Group 1) and 21 normoglycaemic age, sex and body mass index-matched offspring of two parents with Type 2 diabetes (Group 2).

RESULTS

Although Group 2 had normal fasting plasma glucose and glucose tolerance tests, the 120-min glucose values were significantly higher at 6.4 (5.3-6.6) mmol/l (median (25th - 75th centile)) than the control group at 4.9 (4.6-5.9) mmol/l (P = 0.005) and the insulinogenic index was lower at 97.1 (60.9-130.8) vs. 124.0 (97.2-177.7) (P = 0.027). Skin maximum microvascular hyperaemia (Group 1: 1.56 (1.39-1.80) vs. Group 2: 1.53 (1.30-1.98) V, P = 0.99) and minimum microvascular resistance which normalizes the hyperaemia data for blood pressure (Group 1: 52.0 (43.2-67.4) vs. Group 2: 56.0 (43.7-69.6) mmHg/V, P = 0.70) did not differ in the two groups. Significant positive associations occurred between minimum microvascular resistance and indices of the insulin resistance syndrome; plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (R(s) = 0.46, P = 0.003), t-PA (R(s) = 0.36, P = 0.03), total cholesterol (R(s) = 0.35, P = 0.02), and triglyceride concentration (R(s) = 0.35, P = 0.02), and an inverse association with insulin sensitivity (R(s) = -0.33, P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

In normoglycaemic adults cutaneous microvascular vasodilatory capacity is associated with features of insulin resistance syndrome, particularly with plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1. A strong family history of Type 2 diabetes alone does not result in impairment in the maximum hyperaemic response. Diabet. Med. 18, 541-545 (2001)

PAS domain receptor photoactive yellow protein is converted to a molten globule state upon activation

Biological signaling generally involves the activation of a receptor protein by an external stimulus followed by protein-protein interactions between the activated receptor and its downstream signal transducer. The current paradigm for the relay of signals along a signal transduction chain is that it occurs by highly specific interactions between fully folded proteins. However, recent results indicate that many regulatory proteins are intrinsically unstructured, providing a serious challenge to this paradigm and to the nature of structure-function relationships in signaling. Here we study the structural changes that occur upon activation of the blue light receptor photoactive yellow protein (PYP). Activation greatly reduces the tertiary structure of PYP but leaves the level secondary structure largely unperturbed. In addition, activated PYP exposes previously buried hydrophobic patches and allows significant solvent penetration into the core of the protein. These traits are the distinguishing hallmarks of molten globule states, which have been intensively studied for their role in protein folding. Our results show that receptor activation by light converts PYP to a molten globule and indicate stimulus-induced unfolding to a partially unstructured molten globule as a novel theme in signaling.

Births of freemartins derived from embryos reconstructed with ear fibroblasts

Although the combination of artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) is effective for preventing large offspring syndrome in clone cattle production, it may cause freemartinism. In this study, 51 reconstructed embryos were transferred to artificially inseminated recipients. Of those 9 twin pregnancies, three delivered male and female offsprings. The females had tufts of long coarse hair and short blind pouch at the vaginal end. At necropsy, hypoplastic testicles and epididymis, which connected to the uterus through the spermatic cord, were found and seminal vesicles were also noted. All females had mixed sex chromosome configuration (60, XX and 60, XY). These results suggest that the combined ET program can cause freemartinism, which reduces the efficiency of clone cattle production.

A qualitative assessment of children's farm safety day camp programs

In order to increase farm safety awareness and teach children good safety habits, farm safety day camp programs have been initiated in many communities. For the most part, the effectiveness of the programs is unknown because few evaluations have been performed. The purpose of this project was to qualitatively assess the overall strengths and weaknesses of farm safety day camp programs and to generate recommendations for future programs. Interviews, a literature search, and observations were used to identify strengths and weaknesses of the farm safety day camp programs. Major strengths of the programs are that: 1) positive attention is given to agriculture and agricultural safety; 2) programs are hands-on, interactive, and fun; 3) children gain knowledge about farm safety; 4) programs bring a community together to work toward a common goal; and 5) children talk to parents about safety. Key weaknesses of farm safety day camp programs are that: 1) there is a lack of parental involvement in many of the programs; 2) it is hard to change patterns of behavior in one day; 3) programs are expensive and time consuming; 4) curricula may include content that is inaccurate or inappropriate for the age of participants; and 5) evaluation is difficult. When done well, farm safety day camp programs can teach children about safety and influence safety practices affecting children on the farm. Recommendations for future farm safety day camp programs are: 1) ensure that child-development principles are applied to all aspects of program activities and curricula; 2) provide session leaders with accurate and relevant content; 3) increase parental involvement; and 4) address safety issues throughout the year.