Cooperative Energy Transfer and Frequency Upconversion in Yb3+–Tb3+ and Nd3+–Yb3+–Tb3+ Codoped GdAl3(BO3)4 Phosphors

Polycrystalline GdAl(3)(BO(3))(4) phosphors co-doped with Yb(3+)/Tb(3+) and/or Nd(3+)/Yb(3+)/Tb(3+) have been synthesized by combustion method. Upon excitation with a 980 nm laser diode, an intense green upconversion luminescence has been observed in GdAl(3)(BO(3))(4):Yb,Tb phosphor. The quadratic dependence of the luminescence on the pump-laser power indicating a cooperative energy transfer process. Meanwhile, it is noticed that upon excitation with 808 nm laser diode, intense luminescence has clearly been detected in GdAl(3)(BO(3))(4):Nd,Yb,Tb phosphor. The luminescence intensity exhibits also a quadratic dependence on incident pump-laser power. However, no green-emission has been observed in GdAl(3)(BO(3))(4) phosphors co-doped with Yb(3+)/Tb(3+) or Nd(3+)/Tb(3+) respectively upon excited at 808 nm laser diode. A proposed upconversion mechanism involving energy transfer from Nd(3+) to Yb(3+), and then a cooperative energy transfer process from two excited Yb(3+) to Tb(3+) has been presented.

A text input system developed by using lips image recognition based LabVIEW for the seriously disabled

In this paper, we present a text input system for the seriously disabled by using lips image recognition based on LabVIEW. This system can be divided into the software subsystem and the hardware subsystem. In the software subsystem, we adopted the technique of image processing to recognize the status of mouth-opened or mouth-closed depending the relative distance between the upper lip and the lower lip. In the hardware subsystem, parallel port built in PC is used to transmit the recognized result of mouth status to the Morse-code text input system. Integrating the software subsystem with the hardware subsystem, we implement a text input system by using lips image recognition programmed in LabVIEW language. We hope the system can help the seriously disabled to communicate with normal people more easily.

An animal study of the effects on p16 and PCNA expression of repeated treatment with high-energy laser and intense pulsed light exposure

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Non-ablative skin rejuvenation treatments that involve the use of laser/light sources together with cooling devices have gained much popularity in recent years due to the lack of down time that is associated with them. One important but neglected issue is long-term safety. Does the repeated use of non-ablative skin rejuvenation lead to photoaging? Are we creating another sun-bed phenomenon? Recently, we performed an in vitro study to examine the effect of sub-lethal QS 755 nm lasers on the expression of p16INK4a on melanoma cell lines, and found that sub-lethal laser damage could increase DNA damage, which led to an increase in p16 expression. Our objective was to assess the cutaneous effect of repeated exposure to high-energy lasers and intense pulsed light sources on male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight male ICR mice were divided into four groups. Other than the control group, all groups received either laser (585 nm pulsed dye laser or 1,320 nm Nd:YAG laser) or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment. All four groups were anesthetized with a mixture of Hypnorm/Dormicum before treatment. The animals were irradiated twice a week for 6 months. Signs of toxicity such as mortality and weight loss were checked once a week. Skin tumor formation was evidenced by lesions of greater than 1 mm in diameter that persisted for 2 weeks. At the end of the 6 months, the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and p16 in the mouse skin was determined by immunohistochemical staining and immunoblotting using specific monoclonal antibodies for mouse PCNA and p16. The results were expressed as mean +/- standard error of the mean (SEM). Statistical difference was assessed by multiple ANOVA. A P-value of <0.05 was considered to be significant.

RESULTS

At the end of the 6 months, none of the animals had developed any signs of toxicity such as mortality or weight lost. There was no evidence of tumor formation. There were significant elevations of p16 and PCNA in all treated groups as compared to the control group (ANOVA P < 0.05). This particularly applied to the group that was treated with the 1,320 nm Nd:YAG laser.

CONCLUSION

The repeated use of high-energy laser and intense pulsed light source did not cause any toxicity in mice. The changes in p16 and PCNA imply that further studies are necessary to consider the implications of repeated exposure to longer wavelength radiation in human skin.

Study on the species-specificity of Isospora michaelbakeri by experimental infection

Isospora michaelbakeri is one of the Isospora species most commonly found in the wild field, which can cause severe infection and mortality in young sparrows. In this study, we selected I. michaelbakeri (Chung Hsing strain) as a pathogen to orally inoculate russet sparrows (Passer rutilans), spotted munia (Lonchura punctulata), canary (Serinus canaria), Java sparrows (Padda oryzivora), chicken (Gallus domesticus), ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) and BALB/c mice. The results indicated that I. michaelbakeri infected only russet sparrows. Infected sparrows displayed lethargy, muscular weakness and fluffy feathers, followed by rapid death. Liver and spleen enlargement was seen in the infected birds. Schizonts were identified in thin smears from the venous blood, enlarged livers and spleens. Histopathological examination revealed schizonts and merozoites from the liver and spleen of infected russet sparrows, but not from other species experimentally inoculated with I. michaelbakeri in the present study.

Application of HL7 in a collaborative healthcare information system

This paper presents our application of Health Level Seven (HL7) standard in a collaborative healthcare information system (HIS). Originally, we have used HL7 message events to flow among HIS systems. Later on, we found that the message interface management become a nightmare for system engineers. Recently, we extract the spirit of HL7 standard to create an alterative HL7 usage over the web services, and reorganize our traditional programmer team into a software collaborative team (SCT) to manage the project schedules effectively. Gradually, this new methodology had already been accepted by most of our system engineers. Moreover, the application of this methodology at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) has shown that it can decrease the HIS system development cost.

Liver graft-to-recipient spleen size ratio as a novel predictor of portal hyperperfusion syndrome in living donor liver transplantation

Portal hyperperfusion in a small-size liver graft is one cause of posttransplant graft dysfunction. We retrospectively analyzed the potential risk factors predicting the development of portal hyperperfusion in 43 adult living donor liver transplantation recipients. The following were evaluated: age, body weight, native liver disease, spleen size, graft size, graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR), total portal flow, recipient portal venous flow per 100 g graft weight (RPVF), graft-to-recipient spleen size ratio (GRSSR) and portosystemic shunting. Spleen size was directly proportional to the total portal flow (p = 0.001) and RPVF (p = 0.014). Graft hyperperfusion (RPVF flow > 250 mL/min/100 g graft) was seen in eight recipients. If the GRSSR was < 0.6, 5 of 11 cases were found to have graft hyperperfusion (p = 0.017). The presence of portosystemic shunting was significant in decreasing excessive RPVF (p = 0.059). A decrease in portal flow in the hyperperfused grafts was achieved by intraoperative splenic artery ligation or splenectomy. Spleen size is a major factor contributing to portal flow after transplant. The GRSSR is associated with posttransplant graft hyperperfusion at a ratio of < 0.6.

Fatty acids, inhibitors for the DNA binding of c-Myc/Max dimer, suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis of differentiated HL-60 human leukemia cell

c-Myc is instrumental in the progression of Burkitt's lymphoma including HL-60 human leukemia cells. We tested fatty acids for their inhibitory effect on the DNA binding of c-Myc/Max dimeric proteins of human origin, prepared as recombinant proteins encompassing DNA binding (basic) and dimerization (HLHZip) domain, and found that those suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis of DMSO-differentiated HL-60 cells. The analyzed IC50 values of myristic acid, stearic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid and arachidonic acid by EMSA were 97(+/-3), 2.2(+/-1.2), 55(+/-5), 32(+/-2), 62(+/-12), 22(+/-2)microM for DNA binding of recombinant c-Myc/Max, respectively. According to the results shown by XTT assay, their influence on proliferation was quite different from the rank order of IC50. Whereas the degree of influence of the unsaturated fatty acids on the proliferation of DMSO-differentiated HL-60 cells was similar, the influence of saturated fatty acids, stearic acid in particular, was very weak at same concentrations. In addition, we confirmed that these fatty acids have no influence on the expression of c-Myc in DMSO-differentiated HL-60 cells. Our experiments demonstrated that the inhibitors for the DNA binding of c-Myc/Max contribute to the downregulation of Myc-dependent proliferation and to the inducement of apoptosis, and serve as an exploration of potent new inhibitors.

Bortezomib (VELCADE®) in metastatic breast cancer: pharmacodynamics, biological effects, and prediction of clinical benefits

BACKGROUND

Bortezomib (VELCADE) is a potent inhibitor of the 26S proteasome with broad antitumor activity. We performed a phase II study of bortezomib to evaluate its clinical effects in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with bortezomib (VELCADE) at a dosage of 1.5 mg/m(2) administered biweekly for 2 weeks with 1 week of rest in a 21-day cycle. The primary objective was clinical response rate. Toxicity and pharmacodynamics data were also obtained.

RESULTS

No objective responses were observed. One patient had stable disease, and 11 others experienced disease progression. The median survival time was 4.3 months (range, 0.9-37 months). The most common grade 3 or 4 toxicities included fatigue (58%; n = 7) and skin rash (33%; n = 4). The mean inhibition of specific chymotryptic activity was 53.1% (+/- 13.33%). A statistically significant reduction in the plasma interleukin-6 level was seen (P = 0.0354).

CONCLUSION

Bortezomib was well tolerated but showed limited clinical activity against metastatic breast cancer when used as a single agent. The future development of this agent for the treatment of breast cancer should be guided by in vivo models that optimize activity in combination with other antitumor agents.

Detrusor mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase activity in partial bladder outlet obstruction of rabbits

OBJECTIVES

Bladder outlet obstruction has shown to damage detrusor mitochondria with impaired detrusor contractility. One likely cause for mitochondrial injury is reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced damages, including lipid peroxidation injury. We designed this study to examine this hypothesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Placing a silicon ring around the bladder neck of male New Zealand rabbits induced bladder outlet obstruction. The bladders were removed 3 (N = 6), 7 (N = 6), and 14 days (N = 8) later. Sham operated animals (N = 6 for each time period) served as the controls. Contractile function of the bladder was assessed by the response of the detrusor strips to bethanechol and field stimulation. Detrusor mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and mitochondrial content of malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined. Detrusor contents of phosphocreatine and adenine triphosphate (ATP) were assayed.

RESULTS

(1) Outlet obstruction induced an increase in the bladder weight and a decrease in the contractile function; (2) mitochondrial SOD activity significantly elevated in every time period of the obstruction, indicating a persistently increased ROS generation; (3) detrusor MDA level increased in 3-day obstruction animals. It returned to the control level in 7- and 14-day groups; (4) phosphocreatine content was significantly reduced in every time period of the obstruction; (5) ATP content was significantly decreased in 3- and 7-day groups; while 14-day obstruction group contained similar level as the sham-operated group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that bladder outlet obstruction increases generation of ROS and enhances lipid peroxidation of detrusor mitochondria. The resulted mitochondrial damages might sustain, leading to persistently depressed energy production and impaired detrusor contractility.

Phase II study of weekly vinorelbine and 24-h infusion of high-dose 5-fluorouracil plus leucovorin as first-line treatment of advanced breast cancer

We prospectively investigated the efficacy and safety of combining weekly vinorelbine (VNB) with weekly 24-h infusion of high-dose 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV) in the treatment of patients with advanced breast cancer (ABC). Vinorelbine 25 mg m⁻² 30-min intravenous infusion, and high-dose 5-FU 2600 mg m⁻² plus LV 300 mg m⁻² 24-h intravenous infusion (HDFL regimen) were given on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks. Between June 1999 and April 2003, 40 patients with histologically confirmed recurrent or metastatic breast cancer were enrolled with a median age of 49 years (range: 36–68). A total of 25 patients had recurrent ABC, and 15 patients had primary metastatic diseases. The overall response rate for the intent-to-treat group was 70.0% (95% CI: 54–84%) with eight complete responses and 20 partial responses. All 40 patients were evaluated for survival and toxicities. Among a total of 316 cycles of VNB–HDFL given (average: 7.9: range: 4–14 cycles per patient), the main toxicity was Gr3/4 leucopenia and Gr3/4 neutropenia in 57 (18.0%) and 120 (38.0%) cycles, respectively. Gr1/2 infection and Gr1/2 stomatitis were noted in five (1.6%) and 59 (18.7%) cycles, respectively. None of the patients developed Gr3/4 stomatitis or Gr3/4 infection. Gr2/3 and Gr1 hand–foot syndrome was noted in two (5.0%) and 23 (57.5%) patients, respectively. Gr1 sensory neuropathy developed in three patients. The median time to progression was 8.0 months (range: 3–25.5 months), and the median overall survival was 25.0 months with a follow-up of 5.5 to 45+ months. This VNB–HDFL regimen is a highly active yet well-tolerated first-line treatment for ABC.

Differential effects of carboxyfullerene on MPP+/MPTP-induced neurotoxicity

The effects of carboxyfullerene on a well-known neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and its active metabolite 1-methyl-4-phenyl-pyridinium (MPP+) were investigated. In chloral hydrate-anesthetized rats, cytosolic cytochrome c was elevated in the infused substantia nigra 4 h after an intranigral infusion of MPP+. Five days after local application of MPP+, lipid peroxidation (LP) was elevated in the infused substantia nigra. Furthermore, dopamine content and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive axons were reduced in the ipsilateral striatum. Concomitant intranigral infusion of carboxyfullerene abolished the elevation in cytochrome c and oxidative injuries induced by MPP+. In contrast, systemic application of carboxyfullerene did not prevent neurotoxicity induced by intraperitoneal injection of MPTP. In mice, systemic administration of MPTP induced a dose-dependent depletion in striatal dopamine content. Simultaneous injection of carboxyfullerene (10 mg/kg) actually potentiated MPTP-induced reduction in striatal dopamine content. Furthermore, systemic administration of carboxyfullerene (30 mg/kg) caused death in the MPTP-treated mice. An increase in the striatal MPP+ level and reduction in hepatic P450 level were observed in the carboxyfullerene co-treated mice. These data showed that systemic application of carboxyfullerene appears to potentiate MPTP-induced neurotoxicity while local carboxyfullerene has been suggested as a neuroprotective agent. Furthermore, an increase in striatal MPP+ level may contribute to the potentiation by carboxyfullerene of MPTP-induced neurotoxicity.

Interaction between radiation effects, gravity and other environmental factors in Tribolium confusum

Multicellular organisms possess homeostatic control systems, which, in responding to changes of the external environment, modify the internal milieu of the organism accordingly, in order to make survival and normal physiological processes possible. This group has studied effects on physiological processes of single and combined environmental factors in the flour beetle, Tribolium confusum. Studies included low- and high-LET radiation, gravity compensation, near-weightlessness in space flight, ambient temperature, atmospheric composition, and magnetic field effects on the growth and development of Tribolium. For somatic effects, there appears to be a "normal physiological range" for each of these environmental variables; moreover, their effects seem independent of each other. When one of the listed environmental factors is near the limits of normal physiological tolerance, however, marked synergism has been observed between the effects of this factor and other environmental stresses. Fertilized Tribolium eggs showed a differential radiosensitivity to external irradiation, and a linear, dose-effect relationship was obtained, as accelerated heavy nitrogen and oxygen ions were used. Synergism was found when Tribolium were irradiated with ionizing radiation and subsequently exposed to temperature either below or above their normal physiological range. Gravity compensation or near-weightlessness in space flight have adverse effects on the development of Tribolium when an ambient temperature is near the higher or lower limit of tolerance. Similar results were observed when pupae were exposed to a combination of oxygen, temperature and magnetic field stresses.

Biophysical considerations concerning gravity receptors and effectors including experimental studies on Phycomyces blakesleeanus

Part I. Migration and Diffusion of Graviceptors: The physical action of gravitational and inertial forces on graviceptors is considered. The motion of graviceptors as influenced by physical dimensions, density, electric charge, composition of the suspending medium and flow variables is demonstrated. Part II. Observations on Geotropism in Phycomyces blakesleeanus: Mutants of Phycomyces blakesleeanus exhibit strikingly different rates of geotropic response. It is shown that Phycomyces grown in the dark lack normal geotropic responses: pre-exposure to light is necessary for the synthesis of structures responsible for geotropism. A physical model is presented that may account for some of the geotropic phenomena observed in Phycomyces.

Effect of hormone replacement therapy on uterine fibroids in postmenopausal women—a 3-year study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective 3-year clinical study was to examine the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on uterine fibroid growth among postmenopausal women.

METHODS

Thirty-seven postmenopausal women with uterine solitary fibroids were recruited randomly for HRT in a 3-year program. All participants received 0.625 mg conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) and 5 mg medroxyprogesterone (MPA) daily. Fibroid volume was measured by transvaginal ultrasonography at baseline and then at 12-month intervals for 3 times. Clinically, significant fibroid growth was defined as an increase in volume of more than 25% compared with baseline. Also, 35 postmenopausal women with uterine fibroid were studied as control who did not receive HRT during the study period.

RESULTS

Fibroid volume had increased significantly after 1 year both in HRT users and non-users. These increases continued to the second year significantly in HRT users but not in non-users. However, the volumes declined significantly at the third year to similar levels as those measured at baseline in control. In HRT users, fibroid volume though significantly increased at the third year (vs. baseline) but declined insignificantly in comparison with the second year. Clinically, at end of the third year study, one of 34 and three of 34 women increased fibroid volume over 25% compared with baseline in HRT non-users and users, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

HRT does increase uterine fibroid volume statistically. However, its effect appears in the first 2 years of use. The increased fibroid volume begins to decline at the third year both in HRT users and non-users. Clinically, the increased effect of HRT on uterine fibroid of postmenopausal women should be not over-emphasized at least for 3 years of usage.

Modulation of calcium balance in tilapia larvae (Oreochromis mossambicus) acclimated to low-calcium environments

This study examined how developing fish larvae regulate their Ca2+ balance for acclimation to low ambient Ca2+. Calcium balance in newly hatched larvae was examined individually. Developing larvae not only increased Ca2+ influx but also decreased Ca2+ efflux when they were acclimated to low-Ca2+ environments. After acclimation for 8 days, the influx and efflux of the low-Ca2+ (0.02 mM) group were about 106% and 43%, respectively, compared to those of the high-Ca2+ (1.0 mM) group. Sensitivity and response to low-Ca2+ environments are age-dependent. Upon acute exposure to low Ca2+. newly hatched (H0) larvae increased both Ca2+ influx (from 24% to 67% of high-Ca2+) and net uptake (from 5% to 69%) within 64 h, while 3-day-posthatching (H3) larvae managed to reach the levels of the control within 38 h. Declining Ca2+ efflux in H3 larvae occurred 14 h after exposure, much faster than those in H0 larvae (38 h). It is suggested that modulation of Ca2+-balance mechanisms in developing larvae is dependent upon the levels of Ca2+ in the larval body.

Gemcitabine and cisplatin in a multimodality treatment for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

The role of new cytotoxic agents like gemcitabine has not yet been proven in the neoadjuvant settings. We designed a phase II study to test the feasibility of using gemcitabine and cisplatin before local treatment for stage III non-small cell lung cancer patients. Patients received three cycles of induction chemotherapy of gemcitabine (1000 mg m(-2), days 1, 8, 15) and cisplatin (90 mg m(-2), day 15) every 4 weeks before evaluation for operability. Operable patients underwent radical resection. Inoperable patients and patients who had incomplete resection received concurrent chemoradiotherapy with daily low dose cisplatin. All patients who did not progress after local treatment received three more cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy of gemcitabine and cisplatin. Fifty-two patients received induction treatment. Two patients had complete response and 31 patients had partial response (response rate 63.5%) after induction chemotherapy. Thirty-six patients (69%) were operable. Eighteen patients (35%) had their tumours completely resected. Two patients had pathological complete response. Median overall survival was 19.1 months, projected 1-year survival was 66% and 2-year survival was 34%. Three cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin is effective and can be used as induction treatment before surgery for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients.

Polyamine depletion induces rapid NF-kappa B activation in IEC-6 cells

The proliferation of the rat intestinal mucosal IEC-6 cell line requires polyamines, whose synthesis is catalyzed by the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). ODC inhibition leads to polyamine depletion, as well as inhibition of both cell proliferation and apoptosis by regulating gene expression. The NF-kappa B transcription factor regulates genes involved in apoptotic, immune, and inflammatory responses. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that NF-kappa B is activated following ODC inhibition. We found that the inhibition of ODC by alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) resulted in a approximately 50% decrease in intracellular putrescine levels within 1 h. NF-kappa B is activated by DFMO through the degradation of the inhibitory protein I kappa B alpha that sequesters NF-kappa B in the cytoplasm. The DFMO-induced NF-kappa B complexes contain the p65 and p50 members of the Rel protein family. DFMO-induced NF-kappa B activation was accompanied by the translocation of p65 from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. DFMO selectively inhibited a gene reporter construct dependent on the kappa B site present in the HLA-B7 gene. In contrast, DFMO had no effect on a gene reporter construct dependent on the kappa B site present in the interleukin-8 gene. Thus, we report that ODC inhibition activates the NF-kappa B transcription factor, which may mediate the altered physiological state of intestinal cells that occurs following polyamine depletion.

The efficacy and safety of risperidone for the treatment of geriatric psychosis

Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic drug which has been suggested to be beneficial for the treatment of elderly patients with psychotic symptoms. In this study, we assessed the short-term efficacy and the safety of risperidone in geropsychiatric inpatients with psychotic symptoms. The sample population included 110 elderly inpatients with psychotic disorders. Assessment for drug efficacy using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Sandoz Clinical Assessment-Geriatric scale, and Clinical Global Impression scale was conducted at baseline and also at 4 weeks subsequent to risperidone treatment commencement. Subsequent to commencing risperidone treatment, 80 patients completed a 4-week therapeutic evaluation. Seventy (87.5%) of the 80 patients experienced mild to substantial improvement using the Clinical Global Impression scale. Adverse effects were monitored in all 110 patients. The most commonly detected adverse effects were weakness of legs or walking problems (43/110; 39.1%) and dizziness (32/110; 29.1%). Peripheral edema was noted in 18 (16.4%) patients. Risperidone, in low doses, appeared to have been effective in this sample of patients older than 65 years with psychotic symptoms. The mean dose (2.1 +/- SD 1.4 mg/day) applied was lower then that suggested for young patients and was related to the each specific patient diagnosis. Peripheral edema and walking problems were commonly observed adverse effects for these elderly patients, such problems having not been seen to the same extent in previous studies of young patients.

Characteristics of Chinese suicide attempters admitted to a geropsychiatric unit

PURPOSE

To investigate the characteristics for elderly Chinese suicide attempters in Taiwan and make comparisons with Western reports.

METHODS

During a six-year period, patients admitted to a geropsychiatric unit as a result of a suicide attempt were investigated for factors related to the suicide attempt.

RESULTS

Of the 722 admissions during this period, 55 (7.6%) were patients who had been admitted due to suicide attempt. The sex and age distributions for the suicide attempters were similar to those for other patients. The most common diagnoses were depressive disorders (56.4%), followed by delusional disorders (20.0%). A total of 121 suicide motives were cited for the 55 attempters, an average of 2.2 per person, with depressive symptoms commonly found on admission. During the first week of hospitalization, 53 attempters (96.4%) still exhibited suicidal ideation and six patients made a further suicide attempt, however, only three patients retained suicidal ideation on discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms previous Western reports that depressive disorders are commonly manifested in elderly suicide attempters. There were differences in the motives and methods employed for the suicides, possibly due to cultural difference and/or sample source. Most of the suicide attempters exhibited a favourable response with hospitalization.

Identification of a 70-kDa gastrin-binding protein on DLD-1 human colorectal carcinoma cells

Gastrin17gly acts as a growth factor for the colonic mucosa. Studies of the receptor involved have generally been restricted to its binding properties, and no investigation of the structure of gastrin17gly receptors on human colorectal carcinoma cell lines has yet been reported. The aim of this study was to optimise the conditions for binding of gastrin17gly to the human colorectal carcinoma cell line DLD-1, and to investigate the structure of the receptor responsible. Binding of 125I[Met15]gastrin17gly to DLD-1 cells was measured in competition experiments with increasing concentrations of either gastrin17gly or gastrin17, or with single concentrations of gastrin receptor antagonists. The molecular weights of the gastrin17gly binding proteins were determined by gel electrophoresis and autoradiography after covalent cross-linking of 125I[Nle15]gastrin2,17gly to cells or membranes with disuccinimidyl suberate. The IC50 value for binding of gastrin17gly to DLD-1 cells was 2.1+/-0.4 microM. Binding was inhibited by the non-selective gastrin/cholecystokinin receptor antagonists proglumide and benzotript, but not by the cholecystokinin-A receptor antagonist L364,718, or the gastrin/cholecystokinin-B receptor antagonist L365,260. The molecular weight of the major gastrin binding protein on DLD-1 cells or membranes was 70,000. We conclude that the major gastrin17gly binding site on the human colorectal carcinoma cell line DLD-1 is clearly distinct from the cholecystokinin-A and gastrin/cholecystokinin-B receptors, but is similar in some respects to the gastrin/cholecystokinin-C receptor.

Gemcitabine-induced acute lipodermatosclerosis-like reaction

Gemcitabine is considered to be a well-tolerated and safe cytostatic drug because of the relative lack of side effects. Cutaneous reactions due to gemcitabine treatment, including alopecia and maculopapular eruption, are well known. We report one patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung who developed a gemcitabine-induced cutaneous reaction mimicking acute lipodermatosclerosis. This case has never been reported in the literature before.

Assembly of the human signal recognition particle (SRP): overlap of regions required for binding of protein SRP54 and assembly control

Assembly of the human signal recognition particle (SRP) entails the incorporation of protein SRP54, mediated by a protein SRP1 9-induced conformational change in SRP RNA. To localize the region that controls this crucial step in the assembly of human SRP RNA, four chimeras, Ch-1 to Ch-4, composed of portions of human and Methanococcus jannashii SRP RNAs, were generated by PCR site-directed mutagenesis from a larger precursor. Protein-binding activities of the hybrid RNAs were determined using purified human SRP19 and a polypeptide (SRP54M) that corresponded to the methionine-rich domain of human SRP54. Mutant Ch-1 containing the large domain of M. jannashii SRP RNA, as well as mutant Ch-2 RNA in which helices 6 and 8 were replaced, bound SRP54M independently of SRP19. Mutant Ch-3 RNA, which contained M. jannashii helix 6, required SRP19 for binding of SRP54M, but mutant Ch-4 RNA, which possessed M. jannashii helix 8, bound SRP54M without SRP19. We concluded that the formation of a stable ternary complex did not rely on extensive conformational changes that might take place throughout the large domain of SRP, but was controlled by a smaller region encompassing certain RNA residues at positions 177 to 221. Five chimeric RNAs altered within helix 8 were used to investigate the potential role of a significant AA-to-U change and to determine the boundaries of the assembly control region. Reduced protein-binding activities of these chimeras demonstrated a considerable overlap of regions required for SRP54 binding and assembly control.

A MADS box gene from lily (Lilium Longiflorum) is sufficient to generate dominant negative mutation by interacting with PISTILLATA (PI) in Arabidopsis thaliana

Lily MADS box gene 1 (LMADS1), with sequence homology to the AP3 family of genes, was cloned and characterized from lily (Lilium longiflorum). LMADS1 protein contains almost complete consensus sequence of the PISTILLATA (PI)-derived motif (YEFRVQPSQPNLH) found in the AP3 family of genes and paleoAP3 motif (YGSHDLRLA) found in the AP3 family of genes from the low eudicot, magnolid dicot and monocot species. LMADS1 mRNA was expressed in all four whorls of the flower and absent in the vegetative leaves. The LMADS1 protein was only detected in the petals and stamens, indicating that LMADS1 is possibly post-transcriptionally regulated in lily. Arabidopsis plants transformed with 35S::LMADS1 produced flowers with short petals and stamens, however, no floral organ conversion was observed. Ectopic expression of LMADS1 cDNA truncated with the MADS box domain in Arabidopsis generated the ap3-like dominant negative mutation in which the petals were converted into sepal-like structures and the stamens were converted into carpel-like structures. Yeast two-hybrid analysis indicated that LMADS1 truncated with the MADS box domain is able to sufficiently interact with the Arabidopsis PI protein. This result supports that LMADS1 is the functional counterpart of the AP3 gene in lily. Interestingly, in contrast to other B functional genes, LMADS1 truncated with the MADS box domain is able to strongly form homodimers. LMADS1 may represent an ancestral form of the B function gene, which retains the ability to form homodimers in regulating petal and stamen development in lily.

Reversible infra-Hisian atrioventricular block in acute myocarditis

Symptomatic second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block at any anatomical level is a class I indication for permanent pacemaker implantation. We describe a 44-year-old male with acute viral myocarditis who suffered from syncope followed by a seizure attack associated with AV conduction disturbance. His initial electrocardiogram in our emergency room revealed sinus tachycardia with 2:1 AV conduction and a right bundle branch block QRS morphology with a ventricular rate of 60 beats/min. Because of episodic slowing of the heart rate below 40 beats/min, he received 1 mg atropine intravenously which increased the atrial rate but further worsened the AV conduction, resulting in ventricular asystole for more than 30 seconds associated with loss of consciousness and seizure-like activity. He was immediately paced transcutaneously and transferred to the catheterization laboratory to receive temporary transvenous cardiac pacing. The cardiac catheterization study showed a normal coronary angiogram and very mild diffuse hypokinesis. Electrophysiological studies revealed advanced infra-Hisian AV block. The infra-Hisian AV block, however, resolved rapidly in 2 days. The patient did not receive a permanent pacemaker and remained asymptomatic with normal electrocardiogram over 1 year of follow-up. We suggest that symptomatic infra-Hisian AV block due to viral myocarditis can be reversible, and implantation of a permanent pacemaker may not be necessary.

Microcosm enrichment of 1,3-dichloropropene-degrading soil microbial communities in a compost-amended soil

AIMS

A microcosm-enrichment approach was used to investigate bacterial populations that may represent 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D)-degrading micro-organisms in compost-amended soil.

METHODS AND RESULTS

After 8 weeks of incubation, with repeated application of 1,3-D, volatilization fluxes were much lower for compost-amended soil (CM) than with the unamended soils, indicating accelerated degradation due to addition of compost, or development of new microbial populations with enhanced degradation capacity. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) profiles of the PCR-amplified region of 16S rDNA genes were used to identify dominant bacterial populations in the fumigant-degrading soil. The DGGE results indicated that specific bacterial types had been enriched, and a more diverse fingerprint was observed in the community derived from the compost-amended soil compared with the unamended soil. Fragments from 16 different DGGE bands were cloned, sequenced and compared with published 16S rDNA sequences. Two clones, designated E1 and E4, were unique to all soils to which compost was added, and corresponded to strains of Pseudomonas and Actinomadura, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that the addition of compost to soil increases specific microbial populations and results in the accelerated degradation of fumigants.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Application of compost manure to soil can help degrade soil fumigants at a faster rate.

Extraction of human DNA for PCR from chewed residues of betel quid using a novel "PVP/CTAB" method

Residues of chewed betel quid (BQ) are often found on crime scenes in Taiwan and possibly some of the Southeast Asian countries. Although these residues are important biological evidences relating to the suspects, the forensic analysis of BQ evidence has been hindered by failures in extraction of human DNA for PCR analysis. Therefore, it is a prerequisite for relevant forensic casework to establish a reliable method for extracting DNA from chewed BQ residues. Three conventional methods (salt/chloroform, 5% Chelex-100 resin, and QIAamp) were first tested for extraction of human DNA from 33 mock BQ samples, which had been stored for less than two months, and 50 four-year-old forensic BQ samples. PCR amplifications from the HLA-DQA1&PM and the STR loci were then used to test the quality of the extracted DNA. For the mock samples, three observations were made. First, PCR amplification of DNA extracted by using these conventional methods had low success rate. Second, the addition of extra Taq DNA polymerase could compensate the lost enzyme activities due to putative inhibitors and, thus, increase the yield. Third, using the Centricon-100 column to remove putative inhibitors substantially improved the efficiency of PCR. However, for the four-year-old forensic BQ samples, none of the attempts for PCR were successful. In order to solve the problem in PCR analysis of DNA from old BQ samples, we developed a DNA extraction method based on the use of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), which bind to two common classes of PCR inhibitors in plants, polyphenols, and polysaccharides, respectively. The result showed that this "PVP/CTAB" method is completely successful for the mock BQ samples, and 92% (46 out of 50) successful for the four-year-old forensic BQ samples. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of a reliable method for the extraction of human DNA for PCR from chewed BQ residues. This method should provide a useful means for forensic identification in countries where betel chewing is common.

p16(INK4a) Promoter hypermethylation of non-tumorous tissue adjacent to gastric cancer is correlated with glandular atrophy and chronic inflammation

The p16(INK4a) tumor suppressor gene can be inactivated by promoter region hypermethylation in many tumor types including gastric cancers. However, p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation in the surrounding non-tumorous tissues of gastric cancers has not been studied in detail. We therefore examined 46 gastric cancers, corresponding adjacent non-tumorous tissue samples and 8 gastric tissue samples of chronic gastritis by performing methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction, and we analyzed p16(INK4a) protein expression using immunohistochemistry and Western blot. p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation was observed in 43% of gastric cancers and 59% of adjacent non-tumorous tissues; however, none of the samples retrieved from the chronic gastritis patients displayed p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation. Gastric cancers showed an inverse correlation between vascular invasion and p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation, and adjacent non-tumorous tissues displayed a close association among the grade of chronic inflammation, presence of glandular atrophy and p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation. p16(INK4a) expression was markedly decreased in samples with p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation when compared with samples without p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation. These results suggest that p16(INK4a) promoter hypermethylation is an early and frequent event in gastric carcinogenesis and may serve as a new prognostic biomarker for the risk of gastric cancers.

The application of the neural network on Morse code recognition for users with physical impairments

Morse code is a simple, speedy and low cost means of communication composed of a series of dots, dashes and space intervals. Each tone element (either a dot, dash or space interval) is transmitted by sending a signal for a defined length of time. This poses a challenge as the automatic recognition of Morse code is dependent upon maintaining a stable typing rate. In this paper, a suitable adaptive automatic recognition method, combining the least-mean-square (LMS) algorithm with a neural network, was applied to this problem. The method presented in this paper is divided into five modules: space recognition, tone recognition, learning process, adaptive processing and character recognition. Statistical analyses demonstrated that the proposed method elicited a better recognition rate in comparison with other methods in the literature.

EMF1, a novel protein involved in the control of shoot architecture and flowering in Arabidopsis

Shoot architecture and flowering time in angiosperms depend on the balanced expression of a large number of flowering time and flower meristem identity genes. Loss-of-function mutations in the Arabidopsis EMBRYONIC FLOWER (EMF) genes cause Arabidopsis to eliminate rosette shoot growth and transform the apical meristem from indeterminate to determinate growth by producing a single terminal flower on all nodes. We have identified the EMF1 gene by positional cloning. The deduced polypeptide has no homology with any protein of known function except a putative protein in the rice genome with which EMF1 shares common motifs that include nuclear localization signals, P-loop, and LXXLL elements. Alteration of EMF1 expression in transgenic plants caused progressive changes in flowering time, shoot determinacy, and inflorescence architecture. EMF1 and its related sequence may belong to a new class of proteins that function as transcriptional regulators of phase transition during shoot development.

EMF1, a novel protein involved in the control of shoot architecture and flowering in Arabidopsis

Shoot architecture and flowering time in angiosperms depend on the balanced expression of a large number of flowering time and flower meristem identity genes. Loss-of-function mutations in the Arabidopsis EMBRYONIC FLOWER (EMF) genes cause Arabidopsis to eliminate rosette shoot growth and transform the apical meristem from indeterminate to determinate growth by producing a single terminal flower on all nodes. We have identified the EMF1 gene by positional cloning. The deduced polypeptide has no homology with any protein of known function except a putative protein in the rice genome with which EMF1 shares common motifs that include nuclear localization signals, P-loop, and LXXLL elements. Alteration of EMF1 expression in transgenic plants caused progressive changes in flowering time, shoot determinacy, and inflorescence architecture. EMF1 and its related sequence may belong to a new class of proteins that function as transcriptional regulators of phase transition during shoot development.

Characterization of stress-responsive genes, hrcA-grpE-dnaK-dnaJ, from phytopathogenic Xanthomonas campestris

Sequencing of a 6.4-kb DNA fragment, cloned from the plant pathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris 17 revealed five ORFs whose deduced amino acid sequences show strong similarities to the bacterial HrcA, GrpE, DnaK, DnaJ, and PdxK. The four heat shock genes are organized in the order hrcA-grpE-dnaK-dnaJ, a genome organization found in many gram-positive bacteria, but only in one gram-negative species (Xylella fastidiosa). These observations suggest that the HrcA-CIRCE system, comprising at least four genes arranged in this order, already existed for the regulation of stress responses before bacteria diverged into gram-negative and gram-positive groups. Primer-extension results suggested the presence of promoters at the regions upstream of grpE and dnaK. In the presence of stress, heat or ethanol (4%), the X. campestris pv. campestris 17 grpE and dnaK promoters were induced two- to three-fold over controls. Since the grpE and dnaK promoters possess E. coli sigma(32) promoter-like sequences, they are functional in E. coli, although at levels much lower than in X. campestris pv. campestris 17. Furthermore, expression of the X. campestris pv. campestris 17 dnaK promoter in E. coli was elevated by the cloned X. campestris sigma(32) gene, indicating that the cognate sigma(32) works more efficiently for the X. campestris promoters.

Impact of fumigants on soil microbial communities

Agricultural soils are typically fumigated to provide effective control of nematodes, soilborne pathogens, and weeds in preparation for planting of high-value cash crops. The ability of soil microbial communities to recover after treatment with fumigants was examined using culture-dependent (Biolog) and culture-independent (phospholipid fatty acid [PLFA] analysis and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis [DGGE] of 16S ribosomal DNA [rDNA] fragments amplified directly from soil DNA) approaches. Changes in soil microbial community structure were examined in a microcosm experiment following the application of methyl bromide (MeBr), methyl isothiocyanate, 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D), and chloropicrin. Variations among Biolog fingerprints showed that the effect of MeBr on heterotrophic microbial activities was most severe in the first week and that thereafter the effects of MeBr and the other fumigants were expressed at much lower levels. The results of PLFA analysis demonstrated a community shift in all treatments to a community dominated by gram-positive bacterial biomass. Different 16S rDNA profiles from fumigated soils were quantified by analyzing the DGGE band patterns. The Shannon-Weaver index of diversity, H, was calculated for each fumigated soil sample. High diversity indices were maintained between the control soil and the fumigant-treated soils, except for MeBr (H decreased from 1.14 to 0.13). After 12 weeks of incubation, H increased to 0.73 in the MeBr-treated samples. Sequence analysis of clones generated from unique bands showed the presence of taxonomically unique clones that had emerged from the MeBr-treated samples and were dominated by clones closely related to Bacillus spp. and Heliothrix oregonensis. Variations in the data were much higher in the Biolog assay than in the PLFA and DGGE assays, suggesting a high sensitivity of PLFA analysis and DGGE in monitoring the effects of fumigants on soil community composition and structure. Our results indicate that MeBr has the greatest impact on soil microbial communities and that 1,3-D has the least impact.

Weekly and monthly regimens of paclitaxel and carboplatin in the management of advanced ovarian cancer. A preliminary report on side effects

This preliminary study was carried out over 18 months to evaluate whether the side effects in patients with advanced ovarian cancer receiving chemotherapy using paclitaxel-carboplatin differed between weekly (98 cycles in 14 patients) and monthly (102 cycles in 15 patients) administrations. We used paclitaxel (60 mg/m2) and carboplatin (AUC of 2) in the weekly regimen and 175 mg/m2 of paclitaxel and carboplatin (AUC of 6) in the monthly regimen. All eligible patients received at least four cycles of treatment in both regimens. The results revealed significantly decreased hematological toxicity in weekly regimens relative to monthly ones, ie, 7.1% vs. 18.6% of anemia (> or = grade 2), 7.1% vs. 32.3% of grade 3/4 granulocytopenia, and 0% vs. 15.7% of >grade 2 thrombocytopenia. There was no significant difference in nonhematological toxicities between the two regimens. The incidence of unscheduled events was much less in the weekly regimen than in the monthly one; ie, delayed treatment (3 vs. 18 events), unanticipated hospitalizations (3 vs. 15 times), and supplemental support with G-CSF (7 vs. 33 times). Complete responses were observed in 6 of 14 patients in the weekly regimen and in five of 15 patients in the monthly regimen, while partial responses were seen in four and five patients in the weekly and monthly regimens, respectively. The present results demonstrate that the weekly regimen can achieve the benefits of tolerable toxicity with significantly reduced myelosuppression and improved cost-effectiveness in terms of unscheduled events.

Analysis of Fc gammaRIII and IgG Fc polymorphism reveals functional and evolutionary implications of protein-protein interaction

Fc gamma receptor III (Fc gammaRIII), a low-affinity receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG Fc), targets antigen-antibody complexes in a variety of effector cells of the immune system. We have investigated Fc gammaRIII and IgG Fc polymorphism and made comparative analysis of the functional and evolutionary implications of the interaction between these two molecules. Sequence analysis and comparison of the three-dimensional structure suggest that the C-terminal Ig domain of Fc gammaRIII is associated with the binding of IgG. The polymorphic residues of Fc gammaRIII are mainly located in the region of the C-terminal Ig domain that might be involved in IgG binding. Therefore, polymorphism and functional binding affinity seems to be related to each other as has been increasingly implicated in clinical observations. IgG Fcs, the natural ligand of Fc gammaRs, also exhibit significant polymorphism. Three regions have been identified where polymorphism frequently occurs: the putative FcR binding site, the linker region, and the intermolecular domain-domain interface of the second Ig domain. The putative Fc gammaR binding sites where polymorphic, and isotype-specific residues cluster are consistent with the regions that have been identified by mutagenesis and molecular modeling studies. The polymorphic residues of IgG Fc were mainly located in the molecular surface, which could be used in the recognition of other binding molecules. These observations suggest that polymorphic and isotype-specific residues in IgG Fc are closely related to their function and protein-protein interaction. Therefore, the colocalization of the polymorphic residues of Fc gammaRIII and IgG Fcs at their docking sites implies that the polymorphic residues would affect the IgG-Fc gammaRIII binding interactions to optimize their signaling through evolution.

Somatic and Germline Mutation of Forensic DNA Markers

Somatic and germline mutations of forensic DNA markers DQA1, PM, STR, minisatellite DNA, and mtDNA are reviewed in this paper. DQA1 and PM are stable point substitution polymorphic loci in nuclear DNA (nucDNA); thus, somatic and germline mutations are rarely reported. STR loci somatic mutations are not found in normal cells but are very unstable in cancer cells. Germline mutations are detected in STR loci with a mutation rate of approximately 0.1%. Germline mutations of STR loci are nucleotide sequence, sex, and age dependent. Among the 13 CODIS core, TH01, TPOX, D16S539, and D3S1358 are more stable than others. Both somatic and germline mutations are found in minisatellite loci. Somatic mutations at mtDNA central region (CR) are detected in different tissues within the same individual, and the mutation rates are high in several cancer tissues. The intergenerational mutation rate of mtDNA CR is estimated to be 1/400 to 1/1200 per generation by phylogenetic analysis. The intergenerational mutation rate estimated by the recently developed pedigree method is higher, 14/1221 (1/87). This rate does not include the hot spot and heteroplasmic mutation. If substitution, heteroplasmic, and poly-C tract mutation are included, the mutation rate of mtDNA CR is 33/1590 (1/49) per generation. Proposals and practices on the interpretation of test data that may be associated with mutation are also discussed.

Synthesis and DNA nicking studies of a novel cyclic peptide: cyclo[Lys-Trp-Lys-Ahx-]

Two novel cyclic tetrapeptides: cyclo[Lys-Tyr-Lys-Ahx-] 7a and cyclo[Lys-Trp-Lys-Ahx-] 7b were synthesized by coupling protected amino acid in solution and the subsequent cyclization effected by the pentafluorophenyl ester method as described in previous papers. These cyclic peptides were designed and synthesized to study their interaction with DNA, based on previous reports that linear peptides Lys-Tyr-Lys and Lys-Trp-Lys could bind to various forms of DNA and cleaved supercoiled DNA at apurinic sites. Ethidium bromide displacement assay showed that the apparent DNA binding constant of linear Lys-Tyr-Lys and cyclic peptide 7a are far below 1 x 10(3) M(-1), whereas those of cyclic peptide 7b and linear Lys-Trp-Lys are 1.9 x 10(4) M(-1) and 9.5 x 10(3) M(-1), respectively. Kinetic studies using agarose gel electrophoresis showed that cyclic peptide 7b and Lys-Trp-Lys possessed DNA nicking activity on natural supercoiled phi X174 DNA with nicking rate of 50.7 and 75.6 pM min(-1) at 65 degrees C, respectively, whereas cyclic peptide 7a and linear Lys-Tyr-Lys were devoid of the corresponding activity. The DNA nicking rate increased significantly with increase in reaction temperature. At reaction temperatures lower than 65 degrees C, the DNA nicking rate of cyclic peptide 7b exceeded that of linear Lys-Trp-Lys. The addition of 1 microM ferrous ion did not give significant enhancement effect on the DNA nicking rate by the peptides. UV irradiation gave a marked rate enhancement on the DNA nicking rate of linear Lys-Trp-Lys and a moderate enhancement on the DNA nicking rate of cyclic peptide 7b.

Endometrium estimation in a sequence of ultrasonic images

In this paper a novel algorithm for motion estimation of the endometrium in a sequence of ultrasonic images is presented. The algorithm used is based on the criterion that a pixel of a motion object at different times has a different gray value. The motion estimation includes motion frequency and thickness; the former one is determined by the detection of change of a pixel value in a sequence of images during a given time period, and the latter is the result of the object's dimension divided by its extended width. The algorithm has been tested on synthetic and real images, and the results are encouraging.

EMF genes interact with late-flowering genes in regulating floral initiation genes during shoot development in Arabidopsis thaliana

To investigate the mechanisms regulating the initiation of floral development in Arabidopsis, a construct containing beta-glucuronidase (GUS) gene driven by APETALA1 promoter (AP1::GUS) was introduced into emf fwa and emf ft double mutants. GUS activity was strongly detected on shoot meristem of emf1-1 single mutants harboring AP1::GUS construct just 5 d after germination. By contrast, GUS activity was undetectable on emf1-1 fwa-1, emf1-1 ft-1, emf2-1 fwa-1, emf2-3 fwa-1 and emf2-3 ft-1 double mutants harboring AP1::GUS construct 10 d after germination. GUS activity was only weakly detected on the apical meristem of 20-day-old emf1-1 fwa-1 and emf2-1 fwa-1 seedlings. During this time, only sessile leaves were produced. Further analysis indicated that AP1 was strongly expressed in 10-day-old emf1-1 and emf2-1 single mutants. Its expression was significantly reduced in all emf1-1 or emf2-1 late-flowering double mutants tested. Similar to AP1, the expression of LEAFY (LFY) was also high in emf1-1 and emf2-1 single mutants and reduced in emf1-1 or emf2-1 late-flowering double mutants. Our results indicate that the precocious expression of AP1 and LFY is dependent not only on the low EMF and FWA activities but also on the expression of most of the late-flowering genes such as FT, FCA, FE, CO and GI. These data also reveal that most late-flowering genes may function downstream of EMF or in pathways distinct from EMF to activate genes specified floral meristem identity during shoot maturation in Arabidopsis.

Interferon alpha /beta promotes cell survival by activating nuclear factor kappa B through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and Akt

Interferons (IFNs) play critical roles in host defense by modulating gene expression via activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) factors. IFN-alpha/beta also activates another transcription factor, nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB), which protects cells against apoptotic stimuli. NF-kappaB activation requires the IFN-dependent association of STAT3 with the IFNAR1 chain of the IFN receptor. IFN-dependent NF-kappaB activation involves the sequential activation of a serine kinase cascade involving phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) and Akt. Whereas constitutively active PI-3K and Akt induce NF-kappaB activation, Ly294002 (a PI-3K inhibitor), dominant-negative PI-3K, and kinase-dead Akt block IFN-dependent NF-kappaB activation. Moreover, dominant-negative PI-3K blocks IFN-promoted degradation of kappaBox alpha. Ly294002, a dominant-negative PI-3K construct, and kinase-dead Akt block IFN-promoted cell survival, enhancing apoptotic cell death. Therefore, STAT3, PI-3K, and Akt are components of an IFN signaling pathway that promotes cell survival through NF-kappaB activation.

Pharmacokinetics of the ganciclovir implant in the silicone-filled eye

PURPOSE

Ganciclovir (GCV) implants are highly effective in delaying the progression of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachments can occur in untreated eyes with CMV retinitis or in eyes treated with anti-CMV therapy, which may include placement of a GCV implant. The clinical management of CMV retinitis and associated retinal detachment often involves the concurrent use of silicone oil and GCV implants. The authors investigated the effect of silicone oil tamponade on intravitreal drug levels achieved with the GCV implant.

METHODS

The authors performed gas compression vitrectomy in the right eyes of 29 New Zealand white rabbits. They then inserted a 5-mg GCV implant into the vitreous cavity through an inferotemporal sclerotomy. Saline (1 cc), silicone oil 0.5 cc, or silicone oil 1.0 cc was then injected into the midvitreous cavity of 9, 8, and 12 rabbits, respectively. On postoperative days 21, 42, and 70, the rabbits were killed and the right eyes were immediately collected and stored at -70 degrees C until all samples were obtained. Vitreous was then isolated and drug levels were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Vitreous GCV levels at days 21 and 42 were similar in both the saline-filled and silicone oil-filled eyes. At day 70, GCV levels in both the saline- and silicone-filled eyes were statistically significantly lower than at day 21 (P < 0.05 for all groups). In addition, at day 70, GCV levels in the saline-filled eyes were significantly lower than in silicone-filled eyes (saline versus 0.5 cc oil, P = 0.01; saline versus 1 cc oil, P = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

Effective GCV levels are maintained in the aqueous phase of the vitreous cavity of eyes with silicone oil tamponade. Ganciclovir levels may be maintained longer in eyes with silicone oil tamponade than in those without. These results support the use of combined GCV implants and silicone oil tamponade in patients with CMV retinitis and associated retinal detachment.

Hand motion assessment and rehabilitation system

Along with the rapid development of information technology, computers play an increasingly prominent and important role. One current trend is to use computers as instruments for physical rehabilitation. In this study, we introduce a new hand motion assessment and rehabilitation system. This system assesses a user's grip strength and records the sudden changes in air pressure through a circuit and A/D adapter. A PC interface transforms and saves the data in a data record file. The data is then compiled and combined with a patient's case history and keyed into a database as reference for clinical use. The system is highly efficient, cheap and convenient to use. Doctors can use it to monitor and analyze the progress of a rehabilitation program.

Generation of PCR-based DNA fragments for specific detection of Streptomyces saraceticus N45

Streptomyces saraceticus strain N45, a saprophytic Gram-positive bacteria, has been shown to harbor high chitinase activity. Due to its potential use in biological control, the cloning of chitinase genes and the development of methods to quickly and precisely detect its presence have become necessary. In this study, PCR-based random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and PCR strategies were used to amplify random DNA fragments from the genome of S. saraceticus N45. Three amplified DNA fragments, 417, 523 and 655 bp in length, were further isolated, subcloned and sequenced. Nest primers were designed from terminal ends of these three fragments and used for further PCR reactions. A single specific band was produced from the genomic DNA of S. saraceticus N45 for each nest primer pair. These three single bands were S. saraceticus N45 specific and were not amplified from other species of Streptomyces or bacteria, such as Ralstonia solanacearum, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, E. coli, Bacillus subtilis and Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. Through detection of the coexistence of these three fragments in PCR reaction using DNA or bacterial cells directly, the presence of S. saraceticus N45 can be confirmed. Further Southern analysis indicated that these three DNA fragments were specifically present in the S. saraceticus N45 genome in a single copy manner, and therefore, that they can potentially be used as markers for identification of S. saraceticus N45.

Microbial phyllosphere populations are more complex than previously realized

Phyllosphere microbial communities were evaluated on leaves of field-grown plant species by culture-dependent and -independent methods. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) with 16S rDNA primers generally indicated that microbial community structures were similar on different individuals of the same plant species, but unique on different plant species. Phyllosphere bacteria were identified from Citrus sinesis (cv. Valencia) by using DGGE analysis followed by cloning and sequencing of the dominant rDNA bands. Of the 17 unique sequences obtained, database queries showed only four strains that had been described previously as phyllosphere bacteria. Five of the 17 sequences had 16S similarities lower than 90% to database entries, suggesting that they represent previously undescribed species. In addition, three fungal species were also identified. Very different 16S rDNA DGGE banding profiles were obtained when replicate cv. Valencia leaf samples were cultured in BIOLOG EcoPlates for 4.5 days. All of these rDNA sequences had 97--100% similarity to those of known phyllosphere bacteria, but only two of them matched those identified by the culture independent DGGE analysis. Like other studied ecosystems, microbial phyllosphere communities therefore are more complex than previously thought, based on conventional culture-based methods.

The clinical applications of Mini-Mental State Examination in geropsychiatric inpatients

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the association between Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and diagnosis, computerized tomographic scans or electroencephalogram findings in geropsychiatric inpatients (age > or = 65).

METHOD

We analyzed the MMSE records of patients sixty-five and older who had been hospitalized in our psychiatric ward during a nine-year period. Case data were collected by review of chart records.

RESULTS

In these patients, MMSE scores were significantly different among the seven diagnostic groups included. Demented patients had the lowest MMSE scores. Patients who had abnormal findings on computerized tomographic scans or electroencephalogram had lower MMSE than patients with normal findings.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the MMSE is a useful screening instrument for organicity in the geropsychiatric inpatients. However, because of the lower average MMSE score in geropsychiatric inpatients, the optimal cut-offpoint of MMSE for dementia should be lower than those used in other populations.

Repetitive phenomena in dementia

OBJECTIVE

Both repetitive talk and behaviors (repetitive phenomena) are common in demented patients and are bothersome to their caregivers and families. The purpose of this preliminary report was to explore these repetitive phenomena in demented patients admitted to a geropsychiatric ward.

METHOD

The sample population consisted of 141 demented patients. Patients' caregivers were asked if patients had presented a repetitive fixed pattern of physical action or talk since the onset of dementia.

RESULTS

Of the 141 demented patients included in the study, seventy-nine had repetitive phenomena. Patients with these phenomena had various presentations and developed them in the early stage of dementia.

CONCLUSIONS

Repetitive phenomena are widespread in dementia, especially for older patients, and may be an early sign of dementia. The characteristics of repetitive phenomena and some likely underlying mechanisms are discussed.