Predictive value of the novel risk score BETTER (BiomarkErs and compuTed Tomography scorE on Risk stratification) for patients with unstable angina

BACKGROUND

The Braunwald classification and TIMI (Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction) risk score are used to stratify cardiovascular risk in patients with unstable angina (UA). However, these scores have a limited capacity in the practice of cardiology.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to develop a new score, based on blood biomarkers and coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) characteristics, for patients with UA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 201 patients with confirmed UA. Follow-up time was 1 year; major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) included cardiovascular death, recurrent acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and re-admission to hospital. Blood biomarkers including high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (Hs-cTnT), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO) N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) were measured. CCTA characteristics such as stenosis, plaque, epicardial fat volume (EFV), and calcification were evaluated. After analysis of relationships, the novel risk BETTER (BiomarkErs and compuTed Tomography scorE on Risk stratification) score was assessed in 201 patients.

RESULTS

In all, 25 MACEs (12.44 %) occurred: 2 cardiac deaths (1.00 %), 13 non-fatal myocardial infarctions (6.47 %), 10 recurrent ACS and re-admission in hospital (4.96 %). Serum levels of MPO, NT-proBNP, Hs-TnT, Hs-CRP, and IMA were correlated with MACEs (r = 0.20, r = 0.40, r = 0.18, r = 0.24, p < 0.01, respectively; r = 0.12, p > 0.05). CCTA characteristics of stenosis, plaque, EFV, and calcification were significantly correlated with MACEs (r = 0.53, r = 0.57, r = 0.42, and r = 0.52, all p < 0.01 respectively) and were significantly higher in the MACEs group than in the non-MACEs group. Thus, a new risk score was created combining biomarkers and CCTA statistics into a Cox multivariable for risk prediction of 1-year MACEs: BETTER risk score = MPO•0.1 + Hs-TnT•50 + Hs-CRP•0.4 + stenosis•9 + plaque•13 + EFV•0.2. The areas under the curve (AUC) for the prediction by Hs-cTnT, Hs-CRP, and MPO were 0.536 (95 % CI 0.409-0.662), 0.745 (95 % CI 0.641-0.850), and 0.650 (95 % CI 0.541-0.760), respectively. The AUC for the prediction of CCTA characteristics of stenosis, plaque, and EFV were 0.905 (95 % CI 0.860-0.950), 0.912 (95 % CI 0.867-0.957), and 0.835 (95 % CI 0.752-0.917), respectively. In addition, the AUC was 0.621 (95 % CI 0.492-0.750) for the Braunwald classification and 0.680 (95 % CI 0.559-0.801) for the TIMI score. The AUC for the BETTER risk score was 0.937 (95 % CI 0.902-0.972).

CONCLUSION

The BETTER risk score is new tool specifically developed for patients with UA. The score displays higher prediction accuracy in terms of discrimination and calibration than other currently available scores for risk stratification.

Efficacy of endoscopic stapled transanal rectal resection for the treatment of rectocele

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of endoscopic stapled transanal rectal resection for the treatment of rectocele.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

For this purpose, the data were collected from 61 patients with severe rectocele that underwent endoscopic stapled transanal rectal resection within the time period from April 2010 to April 2012. The pre- and post-operative Longo's obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) were compared. The reduction of the rectocele was assessed by defecography on visit and from patients' satisfaction obtained through following up.

RESULTS

We found that the postoperative Longo's ODS was significantly lower than the preoperative value (p < 0.01); and defecography showed that the rectocele was significantly reduced or disappeared. Furthermore, 57 of the 61 (93.4%) patients expressed their satisfaction at follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic stapled transanal rectal resection can be recommended as the treatment of choice for rectocele since it is an easy-to-perform procedure that has satisfactory short and mid to long-term therapeutic efficacy.

Ferromagnetic interfacial interaction and the proximity effect in a Co2FeAl/(Ga,Mn)As bilayer

The magnetic properties of a Co2FeAl/(Ga,Mn)As bilayer epitaxied on GaAs (001) are studied both experimentally and theoretically. Unlike the common antiferromagnetic interfacial interaction existing in most ferromagnet-magnetic semiconductor bilayers, a ferromagnetic interfacial interaction in the Co2FeAl/(Ga,Mn)As bilayer is observed from measurements of magnetic hysteresis and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. The Mn ions in a 1.36 nm thick (Ga,Mn)As layer remain spin polarized up to 400 K due to the magnetic proximity effect. The minor loops of the Co2FeAl/(Ga,Mn)As bilayer shift with a small ferromagnetic interaction field of +24 Oe and -23 Oe at 15 K. The observed ferromagnetic interfacial coupling is supported by ab initio density functional calculations. These findings may provide a viable pathway for designing room-temperature semiconductor spintronic devices through magnetic proximity effect.

Dispersion of single walled carbon nanotubes in amidine solvents

The excellent electronic and material properties of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) makes this nanomaterial very attractive for incorporation into flexible and stretchable electronics. However, the widespread application of SWNTs in electronic devices is still limited. To purify, process and place SWNTs, appropriate solvents for dispersion are needed. However, a fundamental understanding of the reasons why certain solvents are capable of dispersing SWNTs is still missing. Here we report on two new potential solvents containing amidine moieties, 1,8-diazabicycloundec-7-ene (DBU) and 1,5-diazabicyclo(4.3.0)non-5-ene (DBN). Even though these solvents' molecular structures differ by only two -CH(2)- groups, we found that DBU is capable of dispersing SWNTs, while DBN is not. We carried out density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the interaction between DBU and DBN, and we elucidated the reasons for the different performances of the two solvents. DBU has a preferential edge-on interaction with the SWNT, thus allowing for a higher solvent coverage than DBN. In addition, the CH(2)-SWNT interaction present for DBU substantially increases the adsorption energy compared to DBN. Our results point to the important interplay between the interaction of pi electrons, nitrogen lone pairs and the -CH(2)- groups present in aprotic solvent molecules and the delocalized pi electrons in SWNTs.

Hypoglycemic effect and mechanism of a proteoglycan from ganoderma lucidum on streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Diabetes mellitus inducing a leading cause of morbidity are widespread in the entire globe. The present study was to investigate the antidiabetic potency and mechanism of a proteoglycan extract, named FYGL (Fudan-Yueyang-G. lucidum), from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma Lucidum as published recently, using streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The T2DM model rats were treated with FYGL as well as metformin and rosiglitazone. The levels of plasma glucose and insulin were measured, and the expression and activity of the protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and the tyrosine phosphorylation level of the insulin receptor (IR) 3-subunit in the livers and skeletal muscles of the T2DM rats were analyzed by immunoprecipitation and Western blotting methods. In addition, the levels of free fatty acid and serum lipid profile were measured using commercial kits for those trailed rats.

RESULTS

The decrease in fasting plasma glucose and the increase in insulin concentration dose- and time-dependently in the T2DM rats treated by FYGL, comparable with that by the clinical drugs, metformin and rosiglitazone. The levels of the PTP1B expression and activity were decreased, and the tyrosine phosphorylation level of the IR 1-subunit was increased in the skeletal muscles of the T2DM rats. Furthermore, FYGL significantly decreased the levels of free fatty acid, triglyceride, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol as well as increased the level of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol.

DISCUSSION

It is suggested that the hypoglycemic mechanisms of FYGL are caused by inhibition of the PTP1B expression and activity, consequently, regulation of the tyrosine phosphorylation level of the IR 13-subunit. As those results, FYGL also controlled the plasma biochemistry indexes relative to the type 2 diabetes-accompanied metabolic disorders. This is possibly the first report on the underlying mechanisms responsible for the antidiabetic effect of Ganoderma lucidum.

Numerical studies on the microclimate around a sleeping person and the related thermal neutrality issues

This article reports on two numerical studies on the microclimate around, and the thermal neutrality of, a sleeping person in a space installed with a displacement ventilation system. The development of a sleeping computational thermal manikin (SCTM) placed in a space air-conditioned by a displacement ventilation system is first described. This is followed by reporting the results of the first numerical study on the microclimate around the SCTM, including air temperature and velocity distributions and the heat transfer characteristics. Then the outcomes of the other numerical study on the thermal neutrality of a sleeping person are presented, including the thermal neutrality for a naked sleeping person and the effects of the total insulation value of a bedding system on the thermal neutrality of a sleeping person. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: The thermal environment would greatly affect the sleep quality of human beings. Through developing a SCTM, the microclimate around a sleeping person has been numerically studied. The thermal neutral environment may then be predicted and contributions to improved sleep quality may be made.

Large variation of vacancy formation energies in the surface of crystalline ice

Resolving the atomic structure of the surface of ice particles within clouds, over the temperature range encountered in the atmosphere and relevant to understanding heterogeneous catalysis on ice, remains an experimental challenge. By using first-principles calculations, we show that the surface of crystalline ice exhibits a remarkable variance in vacancy formation energies, akin to an amorphous material. We find vacancy formation energies as low as ~0.1-0.2 eV, which leads to a higher than expected vacancy concentration. Because a vacancy's reactivity correlates with its formation energy, ice particles may be more reactive than previously thought. We also show that vacancies significantly reduce the formation energy of neighbouring vacancies, thus facilitating pitting and contributing to pre-melting and quasi-liquid layer formation. These surface properties arise from proton disorder and the relaxation of geometric constraints, which suggests that other frustrated materials may possess unusual surface characteristics.

Detection of bovine herpesvirus 1 sequences in yaks (Bos grunniens) with keratoconjunctivitis, using a highly sensitive nested polymerase chain reaction

Thirty-seven yaks (Bos grunniens) with keratoconjunctivitis and 22 healthy yaks were used to investigate the role of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) in keratoconjunctivitis in yaks. Nucleic acid sequences of BoHV-1 glycoproteins B and E were detected in conjunctival swabs from all yaks with keratoconjunctivitis using a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In 21 yaks, BoHV-1 sequences were detected along with Moraxella bovis (M. bovis) and Neisseria spp. The amplified BoHV-1 sequences were identical, and no nucleotide variation was observed when compared with a BoHV-1 reference strain using single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis of the amplified DNA sequences. Interestingly, BoHV-1 sequences could not be detected in samples from healthy yaks. However, conjunctival swabs from two healthy yaks (9.09%) yielded M. bovis and Neisseria spp. Samples from 35 yaks with keratoconjunctivitis showed positive reactions in an avidin biotin enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for BoHV-1 antibodies; all the healthy yaks were seronegative. This is the first report of a possible association of BoHV-1 with keratoconjunctivitis in yaks.

Demographic, institutional and obstetrical risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage mortality

This study, initially presented at the SMFM Annual Conference in San Diego on 29 January 2009, sought to explore the risk factors for mortality from postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). A total of 138,316 cases of PPH from 1991 to 2000 were identified using the California Health Discharge Database. Data analysed included demographic information and clinical risk factors. PPH increased from 1.9% to 2.8%, while mortality rate decreased during the study period (1991-2000). Logistic regression showed that hysterectomy, hypertensive disorders, abruption, transverse caesarean delivery, and classical caesarean delivery, increased risk for PPH mortality, while manual placental extraction, episiotomy, and laceration repairs decreased risk. Two geographical regions, Inland Empire and Orange County, were associated with increased PPH mortality, despite having lower incidence of PPH. Teaching status and investor ownership of hospitals increased the risk of PPH mortality. There was no associated change in mortality based on hospital quality rating.

Molecular characterization of antigen B2 subunit in two genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus from Indian bubaline isolates, its stage specific expression and serological evaluation

Echinococcus granulosus is a parasitic helminth which affects both man and animals. During infection with larval stage of the organism secretory and membrane-bound (S/M) proteins play a meaningful role for evasion of immune system. Antigen B (AgB) is one of them. Present investigation has defined sequence diversity of AgB2 subunit of cattle and buffalo isolates of the organism. A total of 55 isolates were screened by polymerase chain reaction based single stranded conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP). Subsequently, six conformers could be detected. Based on predicted amino acid sequences of 90 amino acid residues, three clusters could be deduced. Sequence information of two buffalo isolates was homologous to AgB4 indicating gene switching phenomenon in between closely related isoforms. Numerical value of Tajima's D test proved negative selection pressure. Using artificial neural network (ANN), B cell linear epitope and stretches of agretope were predicted. Three clusters could be defined on the basis of B cell linear epitope. Out of three clusters, two showed more than 50% binding propensity with same MHCII alleles whereas, cluster 3 exhibited binding propensity with other MHCII alleles (DRB1_1501, DRB1_1502). Relative expression of AgB2 was more in active cysts (1.636 ± 0.092) followed by degenerating (0.449 ± 0.037) and calcified (0.255 ± 0.008). This result suggested that relative expression of AgB2 declines with progression of the disease. Using recombinant AgB2 sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the ELISA test was 96.7, 94.7 and 95.9%, respectively. No cross reactivity was found with common cestode and trematode infected cattle and buffalo because cross reactive antigen was expressed intracellularly. Finally, this was concluded that AgB2 is the suitable immunological marker for detection, diagnosis and progression of the disease.

Effect of heat killed Mycobacterium phlei on body weight gain and management of caecal coccidiosis in broiler chickens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the immunotherapeutic potential of heat killed Mycobacterium phlei in broiler chicken against experimentally produced Eimeria tenella infection. The selected dose of E. tenella oocyst (5x10(3) sporulated oocysts per bird) was capable of producing a mild form of caecal coccidiosis as observed by significant difference in body weight gain, clinical findings and caecal lesion score. Heat killed M. phlei was fed orally at 10 mg per bird with sterile PBS vehicle at alternate day for four doses. Our study reveals that per day body weight gain was significantly (p<0.01) higher for healthy control compared to coccidia infected group. The group fed M. phlei along with coccidial challenge showed significantly (p<0.05) higher body weight gain than infected control group. Heat killed M. phlei feeding also found effective to reduce the caecal lesion score significantly (p<0.05) in comparison to E. tenella infected untreated group. IgA concentrations in serum and bile at 7-day post challenge of coccidial oocyst was also significantly (p<0.01) higher in M. phlei fed group when compared to coccidia infected and healthy control group. We concluded that use of heat killed M. phlei has a beneficial role as an immunostimulant against caecal coccidiosis in broiler chicken.

Use of zinc chloride as alternative stimulant for in vitro study of nitric oxide production pathway in avian splenocyte culture

Nitric Oxide (NO) plays an important role for regulation of cellular and vascular response of inflammation and initiates killing mechanism in the host-defense reactions. NO production is regulated through inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) pathway in response to infections and injurious agents besides pro-inflammatory cytokines secreted by the host. Evaluation of NO pathway is one of the major targets which can evaluate various immunomodulators for their therapeutic interaction on innate immune system. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and concavalin A (ConA) are used as standard mitogen for peripheral blood mononuclear cells and splenocyte of mammalian and avian cell culture. During the present investigation ZnCl(2) has been explored as standard mitogen and result was comparable with standard mitogen. The result has been evaluated on the basis of relative mRNA expression of iNOS and interferon gamma and nitrite assay. Observation indicated significantly higher expression of both biomolecules in comparison to control, LPS, ConA treated group. This study indicated that, ZnCl(2) can also be used as standard stimulant for molecular mining of innate immunity.

A report on the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in yaks (Bos poephagus) in the cold desert area of North Sikkim, India

Faecal samples were collected from 348 yaks(Bos poephagus) in and around Gurudogmer Plateau, a cold desert area in North Sikkim, India. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection was recorded at 10.05% in both the organized and traditionally managed farms of yak. The pattern of infection was either single (2.58%) or mixed (7.47%) with a faecal egg count range of 100-200 eggs per gram of faeces in positive animals. Among the helminths, Haemonchus spp. infection was predominant (6.89%) followed by Nematodirus spp. (1.72%), Cooperia spp. (1.43%) and Dicrocoelium spp. (0.29%).

Polymorphism and natural selection of antigen B1 of Echinococcus granulosus isolated from different host assemblages in India

Antigen B (AgB) is an excretory-secretory product of larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. This antigen is abundantly secreted by larval stage of the worm. AgB is encoded by a multigene family and is suggested to be involved in evasion of host immune system. During the present study a total of 110 animal isolates of E. granulosus has been screened by mutation scan screening. A total of 14 conformers were detected on the basis of single strand banding profile of 129 bp fragment of AgB1 subunit. Analysis of sequence information of 14 conformers could cluster the isolates into two different group viz. buffalo-cattle and sheep-goat cluster. Conceptual amino acid sequence information of two clusters could be differentiated in terms of MHCII binding propensity of agretope and B-cell epitope region. This type of analysis of clustering of animal isolates on the basis of binding propensity towards different MHC antigens and B-cell linear epitope is the example of its own kind. Positive Tajima's D value indicated that, AgB1 is under balancing selection pressure which might be considered as heterogeneous selection pressure exerted by the host.

Evaluation of T cell stimulation by thyrotropin-receptor epitopes in Graves' disease

In Graves' disease (GD) immunized T cells reactive to TSH-receptor epitopes contribute to pathogenesis through B cell help, and cytotoxicity. We evaluated T cell responses to synthetic TSH-receptor epitopes in hyperthyroid patients with GD prior to therapy, at 6-8 weeks after radioactive iodine (RAI) administration, or 6-8 months later when euthyroid, and in control subjects. All T cell responses were relatively low as generally found in human autoimmune diseases. Responses in hyperthyroid GD patients were significantly greater than among controls, were augmented 6-8 weeks after RAI treatment, were still present after patients became euthyroid, and did not differ between DR3+ and non-DR3+ patients. Patient's T cells reacted to multiple different epitopes, and reactivity differed depending on the course of the disease and treatment.While certain epitopes most commonly cause T cell reactivity, we did not find evidence for a single or few "dominant" epitopes.

Expression analysis and functional activity of interleukin-7 splice variants

Alternative splicing results in multiple protein isoforms derived from a single gene. The magnitude of this process ranges from a complete loss of function to gain of new function. We examined, as a paradigm, alternative splicing of the non-redundant human cytokine, interleukin-7 (IL-7). We show that extensive IL-7 splicing in human tissues of different histology, including MTB+ granuloma lesions, transformed tissue and tumor cell lines. IL-7 splice variants were expressed as recombinant proteins. A differentially spliced IL-7 isoform, lacking exon 5, leads to STAT-5 phosphorylation in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, promotes thymocyte maturation and T-cell survival. Human tumor lesions show aberrant IL-7 isoform expression, as compared with the autologous, non-transformed tissue. Alternatively spliced cytokines, such as IL-7, represent candidates for diagnostics and therapeutic interventions.

Molecular appraisal of Indian animal isolates of Echinococcus granulosus

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) has a wide host range and distinct entities, not only reflected phenotypically but also by genotypic variation. Considering this fact, this study was undertaken to characterize the Indian isolates of Echinococcus granulosus to find out difference between Indian cattle, buffalo and sheep isolates on the basis of random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) PCR and PCR mediated restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCRRFLP) of internal transcribed spacer gene 1 (ITS1).

METHODS

A total of 22 isolates of E. granulosus obtained from Indian cattle, buffalo and sheep (December 2004 - November 2005) were analysed by 26 random primers of 8-10 mers. After isolation of protoscoleces from fertile cyst, DNA was extracted, quantified and amplified by random primers. Internal transcribed spacer gene 1 (ITS1) was amplified using specific primer and digested by two restriction enzymes (Msp1 and Rsa1).

RESULTS

Of the 26 primers, only two primers (5'ACC TGG ACA C3' and 5' TCA TCC GAG G3') could discriminate cattle, buffalo and sheep isolates collected from eastern part of India. Samples were further analysed by PCR mediated RFLP of internal transcribed spacer gene1 (ITS1) using two restriction enzymes (Msp1 and Rsa1). No ITS1 variants could be detected.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION

Our findings showed genotypic variation among Indian animal isolates of E. granulosus on the basis of RAPD fingerprinting.

Effects of photoperiod on ovarian morphology and carcass traits at sexual maturity in pullets

This paper is concerned with the effects of photoperiod on ovarian morphology and carcass traits at sexual maturity in egg-type hens. Two hundred fifty-six commercial egg-type pullets were initially subjected to a photoperiod of 23L:1D, which was reduced to 22L:2D at 1 wk, to 18L:6D at 2 wk, and to 16L:8D at 3 wk. From 4 to 20 wk, the photoperiod was 8L:16D. At 20 wk, 32 pullets were individually caged in individually lit cages, with 8 cages per unit. Two cage units were placed into 4 photoperiods of 17L:7D, 15L:9D, 13L:11D, and 11L:13D, respectively. Each bird was processed when it reached sexual maturity (SM), and carcass and ovarian morphology were assessed. The results showed that photoperiod had an effect on the timing of SM, and the age at first egg was 5.7 d earlier for hens exposed to the 17L:7D photoperiod than the 11L:13D photoperiod. However, photoperiod had no effect on BW at SM. A photoperiod of 11L:13D limited ovarian follicle formation and increased carcass protein and lipid compared with birds on longer photoperiods, whereas the 17L:7D photoperiod restricted ovary and oviduct full development. These results indicated that excessively long and short photoperiods can restrict reproductive development in egg-type hens.

Characterization of the 12C4 survivin monoclonal antibody and insight into the expression of survivin in human adult tissues

AIMS

To elucidate the expression and regulation of survivin in normal tissues.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A novel monoclonal antibody (12C4) to survivin was generated. Application of this antibody to determine survivin expression in human normal adult tissues revealed that most adult tissues do not express survivin and, where it is present, survivin is largely restricted to a small subset of epithelial cells and cells with proliferative potential such as thymus. Survivin expression among positive tissues showed individual variations, ranging from zero to < 5% positive cells in epithelial cell populations. Testis is the only human adult tissue highly expressing survivin, with 60-70% positivity in the nuclei of spermatogonia. Consistent with deregulated expression of survivin associated with oncogenesis, we found that certain ligands and transcription factors differentially modulate survivin promoter activity in cancer cells versus normal/untransformed cells.

CONCLUSION

Deregulation of survivin transcription controls in individual epithelial cells may contribute to oncogenesis in various human adult tissues.

4D-fingerprints, universal QSAR and QSPR descriptors

An elusive goal in the field of chemoinformatics and molecular modeling has been the generation of a set of descriptors that, once calculated for a molecule, may be used in a wide variety of applications. Since such universal descriptors are generated free from external constraints, they are inherently independent of the data set in which they are employed. The realization of a set of universal descriptors would significantly streamline such chemoinformatics tasks as virtual high-throughout screening (VHTS) and toxicity profiling. The current study reports the derivation and validation of a potential set of universal descriptors, referred to as the 4D-fingerprints. The 4D-fingerprints are derived from the 4D-molecular similarity analysis. To evaluate the applicability of the 4D-fingerprints as universal descriptors, they are used to generate descriptive QSAR models for 5 independent training sets. Each of the training sets has been analyzed previously by several varying QSAR methods, and the results of the models generated using the 4D-fingerprints are compared to the results of the previous QSAR analyses. It was found that the models generated using the 4D-fingerprints are comparable in quality, based on statistical measures of fit and test set prediction, to the previously reported models for the other QSAR methods. This finding is particularly significant considering the 4D-fingerprints are generated independent of external constraints such as alignment, while the QSAR methods used for comparison all require an alignment analysis.

A luciferase transgenic mouse model: visualization of prostate development and its androgen responsiveness in live animals

Numerous mouse models of prostate carcinogenesis have been developed, but hitherto there has been no model in which the prostate gland could be imaged in live animals. The transgenic model generated here targeted mouse prostate gland using a firefly luciferase enzyme under the control of a small but highly active and specific supra prostate-specific antigen (sPSA) promoter. We evaluated postnatal prostate development, involution and androgen-induced restoration of prostate growth in adult transgenic mice using bioluminescence imaging. Results of our study showed that: (i) the prostate gland of male offspring did not yield a significant bioluminescence signal until after sexual maturity. Luciferase was detected in the luminal epithelial cells of the ventral and dorsolateral lobes of the prostate gland and caput epididymis, with little or no activity in 18 other organs evaluated. (ii) While a constant high level of bioluminescence was detected in the mouse prostate from 5 to 35 weeks of age, a slight drop in bioluminescence was detected at 36 to 54 weeks. (iii) Upon castration, the luciferase activity signal associated with mouse prostate detected by a cooled charge-coupled device camera was dramatically reduced. This signal could be rapidly restored to pre-castration levels after androgen administration. Androgen-induced luciferase activity subsided to nearly basal levels 5 days following the last injection. These data demonstrate that a bioluminescent mouse model with luciferase activity restricted to the prostate gland under the control of a (sPSA) promoter can be used on a real-time basis in live animals to investigate the development and responsiveness of the prostate gland to exogenously administered androgen. This model can be extended to detect the responsiveness of the prostate gland to therapy and used as a founder strain to visualize tumors in hosts with different genetic backgrounds.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of plasma sprayed HA/YSZ/Ti–6Al–4V composite coatings

Plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings on titanium alloy substrate have been used extensively due to their excellent biocompatibility and osteoconductivity. However, the erratic bond strength between HA and Ti alloy has raised concern over the long-term reliability of the implant. In this paper, HA/yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ)/Ti-6Al-4V composite coatings that possess superior mechanical properties to conventional plasma sprayed HA coatings were developed. Ti-6Al-4V powders coated with fine YSZ and HA particles were prepared through a unique ceramic slurry mixing method. The so-formed composite powder was employed as feedstock for plasma spraying of the HA/YSZ/Ti-6Al-4V coatings. The influence of net plasma energy, plasma spray standoff distance, and post-spray heat treatment on microstructure, phase composition and mechanical properties were investigated. Results showed that coatings prepared with the optimum plasma sprayed condition showed a well-defined splat structure. HA/YSZ/Ti-6Al-4V solid solution was formed during plasma spraying which was beneficial for the improvement of mechanical properties. There was no evidence of Ti oxidation from the successful processing of YSZ and HA coated Ti-6Al-4V composite powders. Small amount of CaO apart from HA, ZrO(2) and Ti was present in the composite coatings. The microhardness, Young's modulus, fracture toughness, and bond strength increased significantly with the addition of YSZ. Post-spray heat treatment at 600 degrees C and 700 degrees C for up to 12h was found to further improve the mechanical properties of coatings. After the post-spray heat treatment, 17.6% increment in Young's modulus (E) and 16.3% increment in Vicker's hardness were achieved. The strengthening mechanisms of HA/YSZ/Ti-6Al-4V composite coatings were related to the dispersion strengthening by homogeneous distribution of YSZ particles in the matrix, the good mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V and the formation of solid solution among HA, Ti alloy and YSZ components.

Activity of plasma sprayed yttria stabilized zirconia reinforced hydroxyapatite/Ti–6Al–4V composite coatings in simulated body fluid

Hydroxyapatite (HA)/yttria stabilized zirconia/Ti-6Al-4V bio-composite coatings deposited onto Ti-6Al-4V substrate through a plasma spray technique were immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF) to investigate their behavior in vitro. Surface morphologies and structural changes in the coatings were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, thin-film X-ray diffractometer, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The tensile bond strength of the coatings after immersion was also conducted through the ASTM C-633 standard for thermal sprayed coatings. Results showed that carbonate-containing hydroxyapatite (CHA) layer formed on the surface of composite coatings after 4 weeks immersion in SBF solution, indicating the composite coating possessed excellent bioactivity. The mechanical properties were found to decrease with immersion duration of maximum 56 days. However, minimal variation in mechanical properties was found subsequent to achieving supersaturation of the calcium ions, which was attained with the precipitation of the calcium phosphate layers. The mechanical properties of the composite coating were found to be significantly higher than those of pure HA coatings even after immersion in the SBF solution, indicating the enhanced mechanical properties of the composite coatings.

The relationship between body mass index, blood pressure and pulse rate among normotensive and hypertensive participants in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)

Obesity is associated with high insulin and leptin levels. Studies also suggest that high levels of insulin and leptin increase sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity and engender increased chronotropy, vasoconstriction and antinatriuresis that may contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity related hypertension. Sympathetic modulation of cardiovascular responses requires good baroreceptor sensitivity and optimal vascular compliance. The vascular changes associated with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) have been shown to modify baroreceptor sensitivity and vascular compliance and may mitigate sympathetic modulation of cardiovascular responses and attenuate the hypertensive effect of obesity. The purpose of this study is to examine the differences in the relationship between body mass index, pulse rate (PR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) among participants with normal blood pressure and ISH using data from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Data from 13,761 non-institutionalized adults 18 years and older not receiving antihypertensive therapy were analyzed. Results showed that PR, SBP and DBP increase with increasing BMI. The rise in PR, SBP and DBP with BMI is higher among participants with normal blood pressure than among those with ISH. We concluded that increasing level of obesity is associated with a rise in pulse rate and blood pressure but the effect of obesity on blood pressure and pulse rate might be weaker among participants with ISH.

HLA-DRB1, DQB1 and DPB1 polymorphism in the Naxi ethnic group of South-western China

Polymorphism of HLA-DRB1, DQB1 and DPB1 was revealed with a sequencing-based typing (SBT) method in unrelated healthy volunteers from the Naxi ethnic group. Among the 43 DRB1 alleles detected, the most common allele was DRB1*12021 with a frequency of 17%, followed by DRB1*08032, DRB1*09012 and DRB1*1404 with frequencies of 8.5%, 7.4% and 7.4%, respectively. Among 23 DQB1 alleles detected, the most frequent DQB1 allele was DQB1*03011/0309 (21.9%), followed by DQB1*0502 (16.4%) and DQB1*05031 (9.6%). For the DPB1 locus, the most common alleles were DPB1*0501 (25.5%), DPB1*0402 (14.6%) and DPB1*02012 (12.0%). The most common DRB1-DQB1-DPB1 haplotype was DRB1*1404-DQB1*05031-DPB1*0402 with a frequency of 5.26%, followed by the DRB1*08032-DQB1*06011-DPB1*1301 (3.51%). The distribution characteristics of the HLA class II alleles revealed that the Naxi ethnic group belonged to the Southern group of Chinese.

A novel DRB1*09 allelic sequence in the Jing ethnic minority of China

A new DRB1 allele, DRB1*0902, has been identified in an individual of the Jing ethnic minority. Its sequence was confirmed by sequencing of PCR products and clones. This allele differed by three nucleotides from DRB1*09012 at positions 157, 161 and 166, and resulted in amino acid motif substitution from VAES to DAEY.

A novel HLA-DQB1 allele, DQB1*05022, isolated from the Jing ethnic group in South-west China

A novel DQB1 allele, DQB1*05022, has been identified from an individual of the Jing ethnic group in South-west China. The sequence was confirmed by cloning and sequencing. The allele differs from DQB1*05021 at codon 47 (TAC to TAT) and from DQB1*05031 at codon 57 (GAC to AGC).

HLA-DPB1 allelic frequency of the Pumi ethnic group in south-west China and evolutionary relationship of Pumi with other populations

A sequencing-based typing of the HLA-DPB1 gene was carried out in 51 unrelated healthy individuals from the Yunnan Pumi ethnic minority. A total of 18 DPB1 alleles, in which DPB1*0501 (52.0%) and DPB1*0402 (15.7%) greatly predominated, were found, of which alleles DPB1*20011, 2201, 3601, 3701, 3801, 4901, 5001 and 8001 were recorded for the first time in the Chinese population. This may be because the typing methods used in previous genotyping of Chinese populations were of lower sensitivity than that used in our study. A dendrogram constructed by the maximum likelihood method showed that the Pumi ethnic minority belongs to the Asian/Australasian cluster and has the closest relationship to Trobriander, implying an unusual relationship between Australasian and South China populations. However, the Yi ethnic minority, which also comes from the ancient Qiang, did not show a very close relationship with the Pumi. This is probably because the Pumi were historically assimilated by local south-west China populations.

Novel ultrasonic fusion imaging method based on cyclic variation in myocardial backscatter

Quantitative ultrasonic tissue characterisation of the myocardium based on integrated backscatter (IB) has the potential of becoming an effective method for detecting and evaluating myocardial ischaemia. To facilitate IB-based clinical applications, a new imaging method has been developed that combines the anatomical information of a B-mode image with the contractile performance of a selected myocardial region. To produce such a fusion image, a region of interest (ROI) in a B-mode cardiac image was first selected by the user. Algorithms for detection of the endocardium and epicardium were developed, and the resulting mean distance between the computer-detected curve and the manually traced curve was 0.83mm for the endocardium and 0.58mm for the epicardium. The cyclic variation of IB (CVIB) of each myocardial tissue element within the ROI was then calculated over one cardiac cycle. Finally, a grey-scale B-mode image at the end of diastole was displayed as a still image, and the pixels representing the myocardial tissue in the ROI colour-coded according to the corresponding CVIB over the past heart cycle. Both the B-mode image and the colour-coded region were refreshed (up-dated) at the next end-of-diastole. Preliminary results from normal (CVIB= 10-12dB) and ischaemic (CVIB = 5-7 dB) canine hearts are presented that demonstrate the utility of this new imaging method.

The effect of gender on age-related blood pressure changes and the prevalence of isolated systolic hypertension among older adults: data from NHANES III

OBJECTIVE

To examine gender differences in age-related blood pressure changes and the prevalence of isolated systolic hypertension.

DESIGN

Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994.

SETTING

89 mobile examination centers and household questionnaire.

PARTICIPANTS

6635 men and 7189 women over the age of 18 years who were not under treatment for high blood pressure.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Levels of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure by age and gender; prevalence of isolated systolic hypertension (ISH).

RESULTS

Systolic blood pressures (SBP) and pulse pressures (PP) were higher in males than in females among adults less than 45 years old. After age 45, SBP and PP were higher in females. Diastolic blood pressures were lower among adult females across all age categories. The prevalence of stages 1 and 2/3 ISH were higher among females after age 44 years. The magnitude of the gender differences in the prevalence of ISH was also age-dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

ISH was higher in elderly women than men. These age-related blood pressure changes may account in part for the higher cardiovascular mortality reported among elderly females compared with elderly males and should be considered an important target for cardiovascular preventive strategy, particularly in elderly females.

Complete genome sequence of the shrimp white spot bacilliform virus

We report the first complete genome sequence of a marine invertebrate virus. White spot bacilliform virus (WSBV; or white spot syndrome virus) is a major shrimp pathogen with a high mortality rate and a wide host range. Its double-stranded circular DNA genome of 305,107 bp contains 181 open reading frames (ORFs). Nine homologous regions containing 47 repeated minifragments that include direct repeats, atypical inverted repeat sequences, and imperfect palindromes were identified. This is the largest animal virus that has been completely sequenced. Although WSBV is morphologically similar to insect baculovirus, the two viruses are not detectably related at the amino acid level. Rather, some WSBV genes are more homologous to eukaryotic genes than viral genes. In fact, sequence analysis indicates that WSBV differs from all known viruses, although a few genes display a weak homology to herpesvirus genes. Most of the ORFs encode proteins that bear no homology to any known proteins, either suggesting that WSBV represents a novel class of viruses or perhaps implying a significant evolutionary distance between marine and terrestrial viruses. The most unique feature of WSBV is the presence of an intact collagen gene, a gene encoding an extracellular matrix protein of animal cells that has never been found in any viruses. Determination of the genome of WSBV will facilitate a better understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of the WSBV virus and will also provide useful information concerning the evolution and divergence of marine and terrestrial animal viruses at the molecular level.

Chromophore structure in lumirhodopsin and metarhodopsin I by time-resolved resonance Raman microchip spectroscopy

Time-resolved resonance Raman microchip flow experiments have been performed on the lumirhodopsin (Lumi) and metarhodopsin I (Meta I) photointermediates of rhodopsin at room temperature to elucidate the structure of the chromophore in each species as well as changes in protein-chromophore interactions. Transient Raman spectra of Lumi and Meta I with delay times of 16 micros and 1 ms, respectively, are obtained by using a microprobe system to focus displaced pump and probe laser beams in a microfabricated flow channel and to detect the scattering. The fingerprint modes of both species are very similar and characteristic of an all-trans chromophore. Lumi exhibits a relatively normal hydrogen-out-of-plane (HOOP) doublet at 951/959 cm(-1), while Meta I has a single HOOP band at 957 cm(-1). These results suggest that the transitions from bathorhodopsin to Lumi and Meta I involve a relaxation of the chromophore to a more planar all-trans conformation and the elimination of the structural perturbation that uncouples the 11H and 12H wags in bathorhodopsin. Surprisingly, the protonated Schiff base C=N stretching mode in Lumi (1638 cm(-1)) is unusually low compared to those in rhodopsin and bathorhodopsin, and the C=ND stretching mode shifts down by only 7 cm(-1) in D2O buffer. This indicates that the Schiff base hydrogen bonding is dramatically weakened in the bathorhodopsin to Lumi transition. However, the C=N stretching mode in Meta I is found at 1654 cm(-1) and exhibits a normal deuteration-induced downshift of 24 cm(-1), identical to that of the all-trans protonated Schiff base. The structural relaxation of the chromophore-protein complex in the bathorhodopsin to Lumi transition thus appears to drive the Schiff base group out of its hydrogen-bonded environment near Glu113, and the hydrogen bonding recovers to a normal solvated PSB value but presumably a different hydrogen bond acceptor with the formation of Meta I.