Design, Synthesis, Fungicidal Activity, and Unexpected Docking Model of the First Chiral Boscalid Analogues Containing Oxazolines

Chirality greatly influences the biological and pharmacological properties of a pesticide and will contribute to unnecessary environmental loading and undesired ecological impact. No structure and activity relationship (SAR) of enantiopure succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs) was documented during the structure optimization of boscalids. On the basis of commercial SDHIs, oxazoline natural products, and versatile oxazoline ligands in organic synthesis, the first effort was devoted to explore the chiral SDHIs and the preliminary mechanism thereof. Fine-tuning furnished chiral nicotinamides 4ag as a more promising fungicidal candidate against Rhizoctonia solani, Botrytis cinerea, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, with EC₅₀ values of 0.58, 0.42, and 2.10 mg/L, respectively. In vivo bioassay and molecular docking were investigated to explore the potential in practical application and plausible novelty in action mechanism, respectively. The unexpected molecular docking model showed the different chiral effects on the binding site with the amino acid residues. This chiral nicotinamide also featured easy synthesis and cost-efficacy. It will provide a powerful complement to the commercial SDHI fungicides with the introduction of chirality.

[Evaluation of disease free survival after radical resection for primary duodenal adenocarcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the risk factors associated with the disease free survival (DFS) for primary duodenal adenocarcinoma patients undergoing radical resection. Methods: The clinicopathological data of 101 primary duodenal adenocarcinoma patients who underwent radical resection from January 2001 to October 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Using SPSS 13.0 software, the survival curve was drawn by Kaplan-Meier method, and the survival rates were analyzed by Log-rank test.COX regression model was used to identify independent risk factors. Results: Among 101 patients, the main clinical manifestation were upper abdomen discomfort, abdominal pain, jaundice, gastrointestinal obstruction, hemorrhage, emaciation and so on. A total of 87 patients had the tumor located at the descending part of the duodenum. All the 101 patients underwent radical resection, and 85 patients received pancreatoduodenectomy while 16 patients underwent segmental resection. The median disease free survival time was 26 months and the postoperative 1, 3, 5 year DFS rate were 79.7%, 60.3% and 53.6%, respectively. The univariate analyses identified elevated preoperative CEA and CA19-9 level, T stage, lymph node state, vascular invasion and perineural invasion predicting a worse DFS(P<0.05). On multivariate analysis, positive lymph node state was an independent risk factor for DFS (RR=5.394, 95% CI: 1.624-17.913). Conclusion: Radical resection is the best therapeutic method for primary duodenal adenocarcinoma; the positive lymph node state is the independent risk factor affecting the disease free survival of patients after radical resection.

Synthesis and Herbicidal Activity of α-(Substituted Phenoxybutyryloxy or Valeryloxy)alkylphosphonates and 2-(Substituted Phenoxybutyryloxy)alkyl-5,5-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinan-2-one

On the basis of our work on the modification of alkylphosphonates 1, a series of α-(substituted phenoxybutyryloxy or valeryloxy)alkylphosphonates (4-5) and 2-(substituted phenoxybutyryloxy)alkyl-5,5-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinan-2-one (6) were designed and synthesized. The bioassay results indicated that 14 of title compounds 4 exhibited significant postemergence herbicidal activity against velvetleaf, common amaranth, and false daisy at 150 g ai/ha. Compounds 5 were inactive against all tested weeds. Compounds 6 exhibited moderate to good inhibitory effect against the tested dicotyledonous weeds. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analyses showed that the length of the carbon chain as linking bridge had a great effect on the herbicidal activity. Broad-spectrum tests of compounds 4-1, 4-2, 4-9, 4-30, and 4-36 were carried out at 75 g ai/ha. Especially, 4-1 exhibited 100% inhibition activity against the tested dicotyledonous weeds, which was higher than that of glyphosate.

[Comparison of visual effects after LASIK in myopia between centered on the coaxially sighted corneal light reflex and line of sight]

OBJECTIVE

To compare visual acuity, refractive outcome, high order aberrations, contrast sensitivity and subjective symptom of myopia with laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) centered on the coaxially sighted corneal light reflex (CSCLR group) and the conventional ablation of line of sight (LOS group).

METHODS

With prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial, the right eyes of patients were included and divided into two groups according to random stratified grouping. Two hundred and ten myopic eyes were treated with centration on the coaxially sighted corneal light reflex and 210 myopic eyes treated with centration on pupil center(line of sight). The parameters of visual acuity, refractive outcome, ablation center distance from visual axis, corneal high order aberrations, subjective discomfort glare and shadowing incidence rate, contrast sensitivity between the two groups were measured and compared up to 6months post operation. Consistent with the measurement data, normal distribution using the group t-test, non-normal distribution of measurement data using the group wilcoxon rank-sum test and count data using chi-square test.

RESULTS

The data of postoperative UCVA, BCVA, MRSE efficacy index and safety index showed no statistical difference between the CSCLR and the LOS group up to 6months post operation(P> 0.05). 3% lost one line or more of BCVA in the CSCLR group,and 9% in the LOS group postoperatively, χ(2)= 6.38, P=0.01. The ablation center deviation was (0.19±0.15) mm from visual axis(pentacam system default setting) in CSCLR group and (0.43±0.22) mm in the LOS group. Ablation center deviation was statistically significantly shorter in the CSCLR group (t=-2.59, P<0.01). The postoperative increased total cornea higher order aberrations was 0.150 μm in CSCLR group and 0.193 μm in LOS group, the difference was statistically significant, Z=3.21, P=0.03. The increased corneal vertical coma of CSCLR group was 0.321 μm,smaller than in the LOS group(0.464 μm), Z=4.33, P<0.01. The increased horizontal coma was 0.242 μm in CSCLR group and also smaller than the LOS group(0.353 μm), Z=4.54,P<0.01. Subjective discomfort glare and shadowing incidence rates were 8.5% and 17.5% respectively in the CSCLR and LOS group, χ(2)=7.16,P< 0.01. The one month postoperative contrast sensitivity visual acuity in the CSCLR was 1.157 ± 0.253, significantly higher than the LOS group (0.797±0.218) on 18 c/d spatial frequency, t=- 2.55, P=0.01, but with no significant difference between the two groups at 3 and 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Myopic LASIK centered on the CSCLR achieved significant lower induction of lost of BCVA, lower induction of high order aberrations, lower risk of subjective discomfort glare and shadowing and lower decline of early contrast sensitivity by comparison to centration on the LOS, improving the quality of vision after operation. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 499-506).

Tetradecyl 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury in adult rats

Tetradecyl 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate (ABG001) is a small molecule separated from gentian extract that has a similar effect to nerve growth factor. It is not clear whether it can promote functional recovery in animals suffering from a central nervous system injury. In order to explore the role of ABG001 in restoration of tissue structure and motor function of rats with spinal cord injury (SCI), ABG001 (0.4 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally. Subsequently, behavioral assessments and morphological studies were performed to detect recovery of hind limb motor function and neuroregeneration. The results showed that compared with DMSO group, the rats in the ABG treatment group had better performance in BBB score and grip strength test (P < 0.05), the area of necrosis was smaller (P < 0.05), GFAP expression was significantly reduced (P < 0.01), and Map-2 expression was significantly increased (P < 0.01). Additionally, after ABG treatment, the number of fluorogold positive cells transported reversely to red nucleus increased (P < 0.05). The results suggest that ABG001 can promote recovery of hind limb motor function in rats with SCI, which may be related to its functions of inhibiting glial cell proliferation and promoting neuroregeneration.

Role of IL-17 gene polymorphisms in the susceptibility to gastric cancer

We conducted a study to investigate the role of three IL-17 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) (rs2275913G>A, rs3748067C>T, and rs763780 T>C) in the development of gastric cancer. A total of 252 patients with gastric cancer and 252 control subjects were collected between May 2012 and May 2014. The SNP genotyping of IL-17A rs2275913G>A and rs3748067C>T and IL-17F rs763780 T>C was performed using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform (Sequenom, San Diego, CA, USA) according to the manufacturer instructions. By conditional regression analysis, individuals carrying the AA and the GA+AA genotypes of rs2275913G>A were correlated with an elevated risk of gastric cancer when compared with those carrying the GG genotype, and the adjusted ORs (95%CIs) were 2.05 (1.13-3.76) for the AA genotype and 1.45 (1.03-2.08) for the GA+AA genotype. In conclusion, our results suggest that the IL-17A rs3748067C>T and IL-17F rs763780 T>C polymorphisms play an important role in the risk of gastric cancer in a Chinese population.

Pre-hospital emergency values of hypertonic-hyperonconic limited resuscitation for traumatic shock

Traumatic shock is a serious threat to life and health. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of different resuscitation fluid compositions on the emergency resuscitation for patients with traumatic shock. Sixty patients were enrolled and divided into two groups, Group A and Group B. The patients in Group A were treated with resuscitation fluid, with 2:1 ratio of crystal (0.9% sodium chloride injection) and colloid (hydroxyethyl starch 40 injection). The patients in Group B were treated with hypertonic sodium chloride hydroxyethyl starch 40 injection (HSH40). Both vital signs and fluid dosage were monitored and recorded. At the beginning of resuscitation (T₀) and 30 min (T₁), 60 min (T₂) and 120 min (T₃) after resuscitation, indicator parameters including hemoglobin (HB), hematocrit (HCT), prothrombin time (PT), arterial blood lacic acid (LA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were monitored and recorded. Tissue oxygenation and hemodynamic profile were also analyzed. At T₁, T₂and T₃after fluid resuscitation, the heart rates of the patients in Group B were lower than those in Group A, whereas the average arterial pressure in Group B was significantly higher than that in Group A. Notably, significant decreases of HB and HCT were detected at T₁, T₂and T₃compared with T0 in Group A. In contrast, no significant difference was shown in detected HCT at T₂and T₃compared with T₀ in Group B, while the detected HB value was smaller. a statistically significant decrease of LA was detected at T₁, T₂and T₃in Group A and Group B compared with that at T₀. At T₂and T₃in Group A and Group B, a statistically significant increase of PT was detected compared with the beginning of resuscitation. At T₂and T₃after resuscitation, CRP in both Group A and Group B was significantly increased compared with that upon admission to hospital, and was lower in Group B than in Group A.

Modification of targets related to the Entner-Doudoroff/pentose phosphate pathway route for methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate-dependent carotenoid biosynthesis in Escherichia coli

Background

In engineered strains of Escherichia coli, bioconversion efficiency is determined by not only metabolic flux but also the turnover efficiency of relevant pathways. Methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP)-dependent carotenoid biosynthesis in E. coli requires efficient turnover of precursors and balanced flux among precursors, cofactors, and cellular energy. However, the imbalanced supply of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate (G3P) and pyruvate precursors remains the major metabolic bottleneck. To address this problem, we manipulated various genetic targets related to the Entner–Doudoroff (ED)/pentose phosphate (PP) pathways. Systematic target modification was conducted to improve G3P and pyruvate use and rebalance the precursor and redox fluxes.

Results

Carotenoid production was improved to different degrees by modifying various targets in the Embden–Meyerhof–Parnas (EMP) and ED pathways, which directed metabolic flux from the EMP pathway towards the ED pathway. The improvements in yield were much greater when the MEP pathway was enhanced. The coordinated modification of ED and MEP pathway targets using gene expression enhancement and protein coupling strategies in the pgi deletion background further improved carotenoid synthesis. The fine-tuning of flux at the branch point between the ED and PP pathways was important for carotenoid biosynthesis. Deletion of pfkAB instead of pgi reduced the carotenoid yield. This suggested that anaplerotic flux of G3P and pyruvate might be necessary for carotenoid biosynthesis. Improved carotenoid yields were accompanied by increased biomass and decreased acetate overflow. Therefore, efficient use of G3P and pyruvate precursors resulted in a balance among carotenoid biosynthesis, cell growth, and by-product metabolism.

Conclusions

An efficient and balanced MEP-dependent carotenoid bioconversion strategy involving both the ED and PP pathways was implemented by the coordinated modification of diverse central metabolic pathway targets. In this strategy, enhancement of the ED pathway for efficient G3P and pyruvate turnover was crucial for carotenoid production. The anaplerotic role of the PP pathway was important to supply precursors for the ED pathway. A balanced metabolic flux distribution among precursor supply, NADPH generation, and by-product pathways was established.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12934-015-0301-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cultivation of Scenedesmus dimorphus with domestic secondary effluent and energy evaluation for biodiesel production

Microalgae cultivation in wastewater has gained significant attention as a cost-saving means for algae-based biofuel production. To evaluate the performance of Scenedesmus dimorphus cultivated in a 100-L continuously operated photobioreactor using domestic secondary effluent (DSE), algal growth, nutrients removal and energy evaluation were conducted in four scenarios. Prior to the application of continuous cultivation, S. dimorphus was grown in a batch operated 1.5-L bubble column photobioreactor to test the growth feasibility and lipids accumulation of S. dimorphus in DSE. The highest biomass achieved in DSE was 244 mg L(-1)with lipid content at 26.06%. Simultaneously, 98.72% of total phosphorus (TP) and 98.04% of total nitrogen (TN) in DSE were removed. Then, S. dimorphus were inoculated in the 100-L continuously operated photobioreactor using BG11, unsterilized DSE, N, P-added DSE and UV-sterilized DSE as the medium, respectively. Results showed that the highest biomass gained were 567, 174, 276 and 198 mg L(-1), respectively. TP removal rates in four scenarios were all above 90%. With adjustment to DSE, the overall TN removal rates increased up to 80%. Finally, energy evaluation demonstrated that although the case of BG11 as the medium provided the most energy production, the case using DSE with N and P supplementation was of the highest net energy rate, suggesting that microalgae cultivation for biodiesel production by DSE is of obvious potential and advantage over the synthesis medium like BG11.

First Report of Meloidogyne graminicola Infecting Banana in China

Bananas (Musa spp.) are one of world's most popular fruits, and China is the third largest banana-producing country in the world. Root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne spp., are common pests of banana worldwide, but damage to this crop caused by M. graminicola has not been reported up to now. During a survey of root-knot nematode species infecting banana in Fujian Province, China, swollen, galled primary and secondary root samples of Musa nana cv. Tianbao (AAA) were collected from two commercial fields in Nanjing County in May 2013. The affected plants did not exhibit obvious above-ground symptoms. Seriously infected roots were malformed and dehiscent, with the tissue discolored and rotting. Examination of symptomatic roots revealed one to several females of Meloidogyne sp. within each gall, with egg masses that were often completely embedded within the gall without protruding through the root surface, and with second-stage juveniles (J2) hatched inside the galls. Population densities of this nematode ranged from 452 to 2,056 eggs and J2 per 5 g of fresh roots. Males were rarely observed. Morphological measurements of 25 females and 20 J2 matched the original description of M. graminicola (1). The perineal patterns of females were dorsoventrally ovoid, with low to moderately high and round dorsal arches and lacking obvious lateral lines; striae were smooth and some were broken by a few obvious irregular, zig-zag striae in the dorsal part of the pattern; phasmids were close together (13.1 to 19.7 μm). The J2 had long tapered tails (63.4 to 75.5 μm), with long narrow hyalines (13.1 to 19.9 μm) and marked clavate termini. DNA was extracted from one mature female. The ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA region was amplified with V5367/26S (TTGATTACGTCCCTGCCCTTT/TTTCACTCGCCGTTACTAAGG) (2) and the COII and IRNA mtDNA genes were amplified with C2F3/MRH106 (GGTCAATG TTCAGAAATTTGTGG/AATTTCTAAAGACTTTTCTTAGT) (3) and then sequenced. The sequences were subjected to a database search using BLAST to verify the identity. Sequences from the ITS region were 788 bp (GenBank Accession Nos. KM111531 and KM236560) and were 96.8 to 99.1% identical to the known sequences of M. graminicola in Genbank. Sequences from the mtDNA were 666 bp (KM111533 and KM236559) and showed 99.1 to 99.4% homology with the known sequences of M. graminicola (KJ139963 and HG529223). In glasshouse tests, banana plantlets (M. nana cv. Tianbao) about 20 cm high were transplanted in 25-cm-diameter pots and inoculated with 5,000 J2 of each collected population of M. graminicola replicated six times; a noninoculated control was included. After 15 weeks, all inoculated plants were stunted and chlorotic. Galling symptoms on roots were similar to those in the field, and dissection of galled root tissue revealed that different life stages of the nematode were present, with population densities ranging from 1,238 to 6,562 eggs and J2 per 5 g of fresh roots. The noninoculated control plants grew well and had no galling symptoms on the roots. These results confirmed the nematodes' pathogenicity on banana. On the basis of these results, the root-knot nematodes isolated from banana in Nanjing County were confirmed as M. graminicola. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a natural infection of banana with M. graminicola. References: (1) A.M. Golden and W. Birchfield. Plant Dis. Rep. 52:423, 1968. (2) T. C. Vrain et al. Fund. Appl. Nematol. 15:565, 1992. (3) J. Xu et al. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 110:309, 2004.

Effect of lithium salts addition on the ionic liquid based extraction of essential oil from Farfarae Flos

In this study, an ionic liquids (ILs) based extraction approach has been successfully applied to the extraction of essential oil from Farfarae Flos, and the effect of lithium chloride was also investigated. The results indicated that the oil yields can be increased by the ILs, and the extraction time can be reduced significantly (from 4h to 2h), compared with the conventional water distillation. The addition of lithium chloride showed different effect according to the structures of ILs, and the oil yields may be related with the structure of cation, while the chemical compositions of essential oil may be related with the anion. The reduction of extraction time and remarkable higher efficiency (5.41-62.17% improved) by combination of lithium salt and proper ILs supports the suitability of the proposed approach.

Differential expression of hemolymph proteins between susceptible and insecticide-resistant Blattella germanica (Blattodea: Blattellidae)

A proteomic approach combining two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and tandem mass spectrometry was used to compare hemolymph expression profiles of a beta-cypermethrin-resistant Blattella germanica L. strain and a beta-cypermethrin-susceptible strain. Twenty-eight hemolymph proteins were differentially expressed in the resistant cockroach strain; 19 proteins were upregulated and 9 proteins were downregulated compared with the susceptible strain. Protein identification indicated that expression of putative cuticular protein, nitric oxide synthase, triosephosphate isomerase, alpha-amylase, ABC transporter, and Per a 3 allergen was elevated, and expression of arginine kinase and glycosidase was reduced. The differential expression of these proteins reflects the overall change in cellular structure and metabolism related to the resistance of pyrethroid insecticides.

First Report of Meloidogyne enterolobii on Carrot in China

Carrot (Daucus carota var. sativus) is one of the 10 most economically important vegetable crops in the world. Recently, stunted and yellowing carrots grown on sandy soil in several commercial fields were observed in Dongshan County, Fujian Province, China. Many round to irregular shaped lumps and swellings were present on the surface of tap and fibrous roots, often with secondary roots emerging from the galls on taproots. Severe infection caused short, stubby, forked taproots leading to losses in quality and marketability. Meloidogyne sp. females and egg masses were dissected from the galls. The perineal patterns from 20 females were oval shaped with moderate to high dorsal arches and mostly lacking obvious lateral lines. The second-stage juvenile mean body length (n = 20) was 416 (390 to 461) μm; lateral lips were large and triangular in face view; tail was thin and length was averaged 56.1 (49.8 to 62.1) μm, with a broad, bluntly rounded tip. These morphological characteristics matched the original description of M. enterolobii (5). Species identity was further explored by sequencing the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) region between COII and the lRNA genes using primers C2F3/MRH106 (GGTCAATGTTCAGAAATTTGTGG/AATTTCTAAAGACTTTTCTTA GT) (4). A DNA fragment of ~840 bp was obtained and the sequence (GenBank Accession No. KJ146864) was compared with those in GenBank using BLAST and was 100% identical to the sequences of M. enterolobii and M. mayaguensis, a synonym of M. enterolobii (4). Part of the rDNA spanning ITS1, 5.8S gene, ITS2 was amplified with primers V5367/26S (TTGATTACGTCCCTGCCCTTT/TTTCACTCGCCGTTACTAAGG) (3), and the sequence obtained (KJ146863) was 99 to 100% identical to sequences of M. enterolobii (KF418369.1, KF418370.1, JX024149.1, and JQ082448.1). For further confirmation, M. enterolobii specific primers Me-F/Me-R (AACTTTTGTGAAAGTGCCGCTG/TCAGTTCAGGCAGGATCAACC) (2) were used for amplification of the rDNA-IGS2 sequences of eight populations of the nematode from three localities. A 200-bp amplification product was produced by each population, whereas no product was amplified from control populations of M. incognita or M. javanica. A single product of ~320 bp was obtained using primers 63VNL/63VTH (GAAATTGCTTTATTGTTACTAAG/TAGCCACAGCAAAATAGTTTTC ) (1) from the mtDNA 63-bp repeat region for these populations, and the sequence (KJ146861) showed 100% identity with sequences of M. enterolobii (AJ421395.1, JF309159.1, and JF309160.1). Therefore, the population of Meloidogyne sp. on carrot was confirmed to be M. enterolobii. This nematode has been reported to infect more than 20 plant species belonging to seven families, including Annonaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Convolvulaceae, Fabaceae, Marantaceae, Myrtaceae, and Solanaceae in China. To our knowledge, this is the first report of infection of carrot by M. enterolobii and the first record of M. enterolobii parasitizing a plant in the family Apiaceae in China. M. enterolobii has been reported in Guangdong and Hainan provinces, China. This is the first report of M. enterolobii in Fujian Province, in southeast China. References: (1) V. C. Blok et al. Nematology 4:773, 2002. (2) H. Long et al. Acta Phytopathol. Sin. 36:109, 2006. (3) T. C. Vrain et al. Fundam. Appl. Nematol. 15:565, 1992. (4) J. Xu et al. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 110:309, 2004. (5) B. Yang and J. D. Eisenback. J. Nematol. 15:381, 1983.

Improved algorithm based on a fiber loop: applications for optical water vapor sensor

An improved algorithm based on a fiber loop optical structure is proposed for measurement of water vapor concentration. Compared with the traditional algorithm, the intrinsic loss of optical devices in the loop is no longer necessary to be accurately measured but instead is directly eliminated by normalization. The concentration of the analyte can be determined by only two pulses without the need for exponential curve fitting, which leads to a significant reduction in the amount of data required to make a measurement. The restriction on the inherent loss of the fiber loop system also can be eased. In addition, a background absorption problem caused by the water vapor existing inside internal end-face gaps of optical components is solved. The mean absolute error of 29 parts per million by volume has been achieved with a 6.5 cm gas gap by using the new algorithm.

Control of postharvest grey mould decay of nectarine by tea polyphenol combined with tea saponin

The control efficacy of tea polyphenol (TP) in combination with tea saponin (TS) against nectarine grey mould decay caused by Botrytis cinerea and the underlying mechanism were investigated. The in vitro experiments showed that both TP and TS inhibited the mycelial growth in a dose-dependent manner, and their combinations exhibited synergistic antifungal interactions with the synergistic ratios (SR) exceeding 1·5. The in vivo experiments showed that disease incidence and lesion diameter of grey mould of inoculated fruit were significantly lowered after being treated with the combination of TP and TS; furthermore, the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase of inoculated fruit as well as the contents of total phenolic and lignin were significantly induced, the respiration rate of inoculated fruit was significantly decreased and therefore the quality decrease was accordingly retarded. These results revealed that TP in combination with TS could control grey mould of inoculated nectarines and their mechanism of action might be attributed to their active components, the induction of defensive system and the regulation of respiration.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study demonstrates that the combination of TP and TS has exhibited synergistic antifungal interactions against Botrytis cinerea, and it suggests that their combination may be useful and effective agents for the control of nectarine grey mould decay. Such natural products therefore represent a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides in the control of nectarine postharvest diseases.

[Preparation technology of total coumarins from Laportea bulbifera]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the preparation process of total coumarins from Laportea bulbifera.

METHODS

The optimum condition for the extraction of total coumarins was studied using the orthogonal test, and the extracts was purled with different kinds of macroporous resins. The content of total coumarins was detected by ultraviolet spectrophotometry.

RESULTS

The optimum extraction process was as follows: three-time circumfluence with 4 times volume of 75% ethanol for 1.5 h each time. HPD300 macroporous resin was the optimum one for the separation and purification of total coumarins. The extraction condition was loading 30 mL of 0.4 g/mL the crude drug, flowing at 2BV/h, then edulcorating with 4 times volume of distilled water and eluting with the same volume of 75% ethanol. The yield rate was more than 52%.

CONCLUSION

This method is suitable for the preparation of total coumarins in Laportea bulbifera, and the process is stable and repeatable.

Screening of PAX8 mutations in Chinese patients with congenital hypothyroidism

BACKGROUND

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a neonatal endocrine disease with an incidence of 1:2000 to 1:4000 worldwide. In about 85% of patients CH is secondary to thyroid dysgenesis, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Thyroid transcription factors, such as paired box transcription factor 8 (PAX8), play an important role in thyroid organogenesis and development.

AIM

To screen PAX8 mutations in Chinese CH patients and characterize the features of PAX8 mutations in China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 300 CH patients in Shandong Province, China, and genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. Using PCR and direct sequencing, exon 3 and exon 4 of PAX8 were analyzed.

RESULTS

Analysis of PAX8 in 300 CH patients revealed heterozygous missense mutations or variations in two unrelated patients; one was a known missense mutation G92A, resulting in an arginine to histidine substitution at codon 31, the other was a missense variation G122T, resulting in the substitution of a glycine at position 41 by a valine residue. The patient with the R31H mutation had CH with thyroid hypoplasia, while the patient with the G41V variation had CH with a eutopic and normal-sized thyroid gland.

CONCLUSION

We report a heterozygous missense mutation and a variation in PAX8 in two out of 300 unrelated Chinese CH patients, showing that the PAX8 mutation rate is very low in CH patients in China.

Therapeutic effects of total coumarins from Urtica dentata Hand on collagen-induced arthritis in Balb/c mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Urtica dentata Hand (UDH), the root of Laportea bulbifera (Sieb. et. Zucc.) Wedd, has long been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and some other autoimmune diseases. Coumarins are the main active principles contributing to UDH's efficacy, but the mechanisms have not been fully clarified.

AIM OF STUDY

To explore effects of total coumarins (TC) isolated from UDH on the development of type II collagen (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) in Balb/c mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Arthritis was induced in Balb/c mice by immunization with an emulsion of 200mg CII and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). The CIA mice were then given with a suspension of TC or saline by intragastric (i.g.) administration every other day. The incidence and severity of disease and histopathology of inflammation were assessed. Inflammatory response was determined by measuring the levels of different inflammation mediators in serum. The effect of TC on differentiation of CD4(+)CD25(+) Foxp3(+)Treg cells was examined by flow cytometry. The phenotype of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DCs), T-bet mRNA level and IL-12p70 secretion by DCs were also detected.

RESULTS

Pharmacologically, treatment with TC for type II collagen induced arthritis in mice through oral administration displayed significant and dose-dependent drop of clinical arthritis score and paw swelling, compared with the untreated CIA mice. Pathologic changes showed that TC protected tissues against bone destruction, whereas an almost complete destruction occurred in the CIA model group. The protective status was associated with a substantial decrease in the production of IFN-γ and IL-2, an increase of IL-10 and TGF-β and suppressive expression of T-bet in DCs. TC also induced the generation of CD4(+)CD25(+) Treg cells with a Treg phenotype Foxp3. TC-treated DCs were characterized as low expression of MHC class II and CD86 molecules, as well as a reduction of IL-12p70.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that TC provides substantial therapeutic protection against CIA by eliciting immune tolerance and it would be a valuable candidate for further investigation as a new anti-arthritic agent.

Mitochondrial dynamics and its responds to proteasome defection during Picea wilsonii pollen tube development

Tip growth of pollen tubes is essential for higher plant sexual reproduction and has been proposed to be highly regulated by the ubiquitin/proteasome pathway (UPP). The dynamics of mitochondria and the functions of the UPP on mitochondrial dynamics during pollen tube development are still poorly understood. In the present study, using real-time laser scanning and transmission electron microscope, it was revealed that mitochondria in Picea wilsonii, are either ellipsoid or filamentous with various lengths. Time-lapse images indicated that the two forms of mitochondria interconvert frequently through opposite process of fusion and fission. Examination of mitochondrial morphology during four key stages of in vitro pollen tube development revealed a link between mitochondrial remodeling and the process of pollen tube elongation. We also report that MG132, a specific proteasome inhibitor, not only strongly disturbed the mitochondrial remodeling but also significantly reduced mitochondrial membrane potential during pollen tube development. This finding provides new insight into the function of the proteasome in tip growth of pollen tubes.

Microsatellite mapping of a Triticum urartu Tum. derived powdery mildew resistance gene transferred to common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

A powdery mildew resistance gene from Triticum urartu Tum. accession UR206 was successfully transferred into hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) through crossing and backcrossing. The F1 plants, which had 28 chromosomes and an average of 5.32 bivalents and 17.36 univalents in meiotic pollen mother cells (PMC), were obtained through embryos rescued owing to shriveling of endosperm in hybrid seed of cross Chinese Spring (CS) x UR206. Hybrid seeds were produced through backcrossing F1 with common wheat parents. The derivative lines had normal chromosome numbers and powdery mildew resistance similar to the donor UR206, indicating that the powdery mildew resistance gene originating from T. urartu accession UR206 was successfully transferred and expressed in a hexaploid wheat background. Genetic analysis indicated that a single dominant gene controlled the powdery mildew resistance at the seedling stage. To map and tag the powdery mildew resistance gene, 143 F2 individuals derived from a cross UR206 x UR203 were used to construct a linkage map. The resistant gene was mapped on the chromosome 7AL based on the mapped microsatellite makers. The map spanned 52.1 cM and the order of these microsatellite loci agreed well with the established microsatellite map of chromosome arm 7AL. The resistance gene was flanked by the microsatellite loci Xwmc273 and Xpsp3003, with the genetic distances of 2.2 cM and 3.8 cM, respectively. On the basis of the origin and chromosomal location of the gene, it was temporarily designated PmU.

Dysfunction of Stat4 leads to accelerated incidence of chemical-induced thymic lymphomas in mice

Stat4 (signal transducer and activator of transcription) can be activated by specific cytokines, such as IL-12, IFN-alpha, and IL-2. Since IL-12 has been implicated in tumor surveillance and cancer treatment, we hypothesized that its signaling mediator, Stat4, may repress tumor growth. Mice lacking Stat4 allowed us to directly assess the role of Stat4 in tumor surveillance. Lymphomas were chemically induced by MNU (N-methyl-N-nitrosourea) injection in Stat4-deficient or wild-type control mice. At the time of termination of the experiment 16 weeks after injection, 78% of homozygous Stat4-deficient mice had developed thymic lymphomas. This tumor induction was dramatically higher than in heterozygous (14%) and wild-type controls (14%). Lymphoma development occurred 5 weeks earlier in homozygous knockout mice than in other genotypes. Mice bearing tumors were fragile and had an increased death rate in the early stages of the experiment. The tumors displayed a very aggressive phenotype with metastases in multiple organs. Therefore, the loss of Stat4 predisposes mice to tumor induction and demonstrates crucial roles of Stat4 in the prevention of tumors.

The effect of zinc supplementation on antioxidant and lipid peroxidation status during Brachiaria decumbens intoxication in sheep

An attempt was made to clarify the association between zinc (Zn) and antioxidants due to Zn supplementation on lipid peroxidation occurring during Brachiaria decumbens intoxication. The concentration of Zn, copper, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and gluthathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were determined in tissues. There was a gradual increment in the concentration of Zn and MDA in serum and hepatocytic SOD in groups given Zn + B decumbens. A decline in erythrocytic GSH-Px and SOD, and lower concentration of reduced glutathione in hepatocyte cytosols were also detected in these sheep. It is highly suggestive that Zn supplementation may depress antioxidant status and enhance lipid peroxidation during B decumbens intoxication.

On-column amperometric detection of ofloxacin and pasiniazid in urine by capillary electrophoresis with an improved fractured joint and small detection cell

An improved high-voltage electric field isolating joint and small detection cell have been carefully designed and fabricated. The joint possesses short steady time, high electric conductance efficiency and high performance. The cell is convenient to install and remove the capillaries with and without the joint, as well as to fix, adjust and insert the microelectrode into the detection capillary. Using the joint and the cell, an analytical method for determination of ofloxacin (Oflx) and pasiniazid (Ipa) in urine by capillary electrophoresis with on-column amperometric detection was developed. The calibration lines were linear in the range of 10-100 mg l-1 of Oflx and 1.0-50 mg l-1 of Ipa, respectively. The detection limits were 8.5 mg l-1 of Oflx and 0.80 mg l-1 of Ipa. Their recovery ranged from 101 to 104%. The accuracy and intra-day and inter-day reproducibility of Oflx and Ipa were determined with satisfactory results. This method was successfully used for determining Oflx and Ipa in human urine.

[Analysis of chlorogenic acid in sunflower cake by thin-layer chromatography]

The analytical method of chlorogenic acid in sunflower cake by thin-layer chromatography(TLC) was developed. With 36% acetic acid as mobile phase and on the polyamide film plate, the Rf value of chlorogenic acid was 0.61. The calibration curve was linear in the range of 0.05 microgram-0.6 microgram of chlorogenic acid with the detection limit of 0.025 microgram and the average recovery of 97.53%. The inter-plate accuracy of chlorogenic acid was 2.57%. With 70% ethyl alcohol as extracting solvent and 30 min of extraction time, the amount of chlorogenic acid in the extract, the residue amount of chlorogenic acid in the sunflower cake and the extraction rate were determined and calculated by applying this method. The optimal time of extraction was found.

The concentration of selected minerals and phytate in Malaysian Brachiaria decumbens

Samples of Brachiaria decumbens collected from 5 farms representing the Peninsular Malaysia were subjected to selected trace mineral and phytate analyses to explain the pathogenesis of B decumbens intoxication. Concentrations of Cu, Zn, Fe and Mo were comparable to other grasses while that of phytate was low. The molar ratios of Cu:Zn, Cu:Mo, and Cu:Fe warrant that Cu deficiency is involved in the toxicity of B decumbens. This might aggravate the development of photosensitization of unpigmented or lightly pigmented areas of affected animals. The Zn:phytate ratio could predispose to Zn deficiency during intoxication.

Effects of copper overload on hepatic lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense in rats

The influence of copper (Cu) overload on hepatic lipid peroxidation and antioxidation defense capacity was studied by overloading rats with copper sulphate orally (500 mg Cu/kg bw) 5 d/w for 8 w. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Se-glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured in serum and liver homogenate at 2, 4 and 8 w of dosing. Liver Cu concentration and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity were also determined. As Cu loading progressed, there were multiparameter changes with significant ALT elevation, increased MDA concentrations in serum and liver homogenate, and dramatic declines of SOD and GSH-Px activities in erythrocytes and whole blood respectively, along with marked elevation of hepatic Cu in the Cu-dosed group. Excessive Cu accumulation in the liver depressed SOD and GSH-Px activities and resulted in high MDA in serum and liver homogenate due to the lipid peroxidation induced by the Cu overload.

Sensitive detection of a plant virus by electrochemical enzyme-linked immunoassay

The electrochemical enzyme-linked immunoassay increases the sensitivity of the detection of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) by 5-fold compared with the spectrophotometric o-phenylenediamine (OPD) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The detection limit for the purified CMV is 1.0 ng/mL and the highest dilution ratio of the infected leaf sap is 1:5.0 x 10(4). The method is based on coupling the oxidation reaction of o-aminophenol (OAP)-H2O2 catalyzed by HRP-IgG conjugate with the electro-reduction of the enzymatic product. The enzymatic product 2-aminophenoxazine-3-one exhibits a sensitive second order derivative linear-sweep voltammetric response at the potential of -0.65 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in pH 8.0 Britton-Robinson (B-R) buffer solution. So it can be applied to the detection of the plant virus with highly improved sensitivity.

[Analysis of 1-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-2-indolone and related materials by high performance liquid chromatography]

The separation of 1-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-2-indolone (DCI) and related materials in the synthesis of medical intermediate DCI from 2, 6-dichlorophenol and phenylamine was investigated with high performance liquid chromatography under different chromatographic conditions. The results showed that DCI and related materials were in baseline separation by using CLC-CN(150 mm x 6.0 mm i.d., 7 microns) as column, MeOH-H2O(6:4, V/V) as mobile phase and a flow-rate at 1 mL/min. A rapid, accurate and reproducible HPLC method for determining DCI was developed. Fine and crude DCI samples were detected, results showed that N-(2,6-dichlorodiphenyl)-chloracetyl amide (CBCC) was the main impurity in fine sample, and CBCC and 2,6-dichlorodiphenylamine were the main impurities in the crude one.

Assessment of decisions in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori-related duodenal ulcer: a cost-effectiveness study

AIMS

Many treatment trials for Helicobacter pylori have been reported but few have evaluated treatment in terms of both cost and effectiveness. It is important to find a therapy with a high eradication rate and low cost, especially in China. The aim of the study is to assess the efficiency of therapy for duodenal ulcers, including ulcer healing, H. pylori eradication and ulcer recurrence.

METHODS

Ninety-six consecutive patients with duodenal ulcers and H. pylori infection were randomly allocated into two groups: AMT group (amoxycillin + metronidazole + tagamet); OA group (omeprazole + amoxycillin). Side-effects were recorded during the treatment period. Endoscopic examinations were repeated at the 7th or 8th week to assess ulcer healing. Patients were followed up for 6 months and repeat endoscopy was performed. Ulcer healing rate, H. pylori eradication rate and ulcer recurrence rate were compared. All costs were recorded and a cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

In the AMT and OA groups, the ulcer healing rate was 83.7 and 93.5%, respectively (P = 0.27). The eradication rate of H. pylori was 65.1 and 69.6%, respectively and was significantly higher in patients with an ulcer diameter < or = 1 cm compared with those with an ulcer diameter > 1 cm, irrespective of treatment group. There was no difference in recurrence rate, duration of pain or the time lost because of the disease. Moderate or severe side-effects were found in 8.9% in AMT group and 6.5% in OA group. The cost of treatment for ulcer healing, H. pylori eradication and reduction in ulcer recurrence were all lower in the AMT group than in the OA group. Sensitivity analysis supported the result that AMT was more cost effective than OA.

CONCLUSIONS

The AMT therapy was more effective and less costly than the OA therapy, especially in patients with H. pylori-related duodenal ulcers < 1 cm diameter.

[Effects of L-malate, an inhibitor of glutamate decarboxylase, on learning and memory in mice]

Oral administration of L-malate 600 mg.kg-1 for 5 days before training can significantly promote memory acquisition, consolidation and retrieval, respectively, on anisodine-, chloramphenicol-, and ethanol-induced memory impairment in mice. Ketamine (8.5 mg.kg-1, i.p.), a selective NMDA receptor antagonist, was found to inhibit the anti-amnesic activity of L-malate. The glutamate (Glu) and GABA content in mice brain was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. The content of GABA was shown to be decreased from 2.3 +/- 0.5 mumol.g-1 to 1.3 +/- 0.5 mumol.g-1 (P < 0.01), so the Glu/GABA ratio was increased significantly. These results suggest that the decrease of cerebral GABA level and the increase of Glu/GABA ratio is favorable to learning and memory.

Molecular epidemiology and variation of hepatitis B in recent immigrant families to Australia

Natural variation in hepatitis B virus (HBV) was studied in asymptomatic carriers originating from countries of high endemicity. HBV DNA was detected by dot blot and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 34 of the 184 members of 22 new immigrant families who agreed to be tested after one of their children had been found to have current or past hepatitis B in a school survey. PCR products from both the S and distal-X pre-C regions were sequenced. One vaccinated child had the classical "escape" mutation at amino acid position 126 in the S-gene and two other children and two adults had other substitutions at amino acid positions 133, 120, 165, and 159. Mutations were more frequent in the distal-X pre-C region and included two pre-C mutants and 13 other amino acid substitutions. The strains originating in the various countries were placed in almost identical groups by phylogenetic analysis using each amplicon, and determination of subtype by antigenic analysis gave the same result as sequencing. The S-data allowed recognition of three dominant strains within genotype B, while the distal-X pre-C data provided better discrimination between family groups. No change was found when the sequence of samples obtained for the study was compared with those collected from 14 of the children two years earlier. There was some evidence of horizontal spread in addition to vertical transmission. Reports of mutations of HBV in patients with severe or unusual clinical features should be interpreted with caution until the prevalence of the mutant in asymptomatic carriers has been determined.

A reproducible, simple, and sensitive high-performance capillary electrophoresis method for simultaneous determination of capreomycin, ofloxacin and pasiniazide in urine

Separation and determination of capreomycin (Cp), ofloxacin (Oflx) and pasiniazide (Ipa) in urine by high-performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) with 280 nm detection have been studied systematically. The calibration lines were linear in the range of 0.5 approximately 50 mg 1(-1), and the detection limits (S/N = 3) were 0.15, 0.20 and 0.10 mg 1(-1) for Cp, Oflx and Ipa, respectively. The recoveries for these materials from urine were higher than 93.5%. The accuracy and intra- and inter- day reproducibility of Cp, Oflx and Ipa were determined with satisfactory results. This method was successfully used for determining Cp. Oflx and Ipa in human urine.

Comparison of high-performance capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatography on analysis of zinc 5-aminosalicylate dihydrate and related materials

Separation and determination of zinc 5-aminosalicylate dihydrate (ZASA) and related materials by high-performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) and liquid chromatography (HPLC) have been studied systematically. The R.S.D. of peak time and area and detection limits of materials were lower in HPLC compared to HPCE. HPCE and HPLC were used for determining ZASA and related materials in crude and treated ZASA using acid and heat, and similar results with both techniques showed the principal impurities in the crude ZASA were 5-aminosalicylic acid (ASA) and salicylic acid (SA), the compounds from ZASA decomposing under conditions of acid and heat were ASA, p-aminophenol and 5-benzeneazosalicylic acid.

Expression of multiple thyroid hormone receptor mRNAs in human oocytes, cumulus cells, and granulosa cells

Thyroid hormones have diverse effects on ovarian function. We examined the expression of thyroid hormone receptor (TR) mRNAs (including TRalpha-1, TRbeta-1, TRbeta-2, and c-erbAalpha-2 isoforms) in three types of cells from human follicles, and determined the concentration of free tri-iodothyronine (T3) present in human follicular fluid. Human failed-fertilized oocytes, granulosa (GC) and cumulus (CC) cells from patients of the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) programme at Alliant Hospital Fertility Center were used to detect TR mRNA expression using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) followed by Southern blot analysis. Human spermatozoa were also analysed to determine whether results obtained with CC would be affected by the presence of spermatozoa. beta-Actin mRNA was amplified in each cell type as a positive control for the RT-PCR. Our results show that human oocytes express TRalpha-1, TRbeta-1, TRbeta-2, and c-erbAalpha-2 mRNAs and that these same isoforms are expressed in both human granulosa cells and cumulus cells. No differences were detected in the apparent amounts of RT-PCR products when comparing GC with CC, suggesting a similar pattern of expression of these RNAs. beta-actin mRNA was detected in spermatozoa, but TRalpha-1 expression was not detectable. The concentrations of free T3 measured in follicular fluid were similar to, or slightly below, those in serum of euthyroid patients. These data demonstrated that several isoforms of TR mRNA are expressed in the human oocyte, and hence thyroid hormone may have direct affects on the oocyte, as well as on GC and CC. In addition thyroid hormone may have indirect effects on the oocytes via the CC.

Comparison of high performance capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatography for the determination of acyclovir and guanine in pharmaceuticals and urine

High-performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were developed and applied to the determination of acyclovir (ACV) and guanine (G) in pharmaceuticals. The comparison study showed that two methods gave comparable results in linear range, recovery and reproducibility. HPCE was used for the determination of ACV and G in urine; the recovery was better than 81.3% and the RSD was less than 4.4%.

Properties of practical oral liposome-Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase vaccines for effective induction of caries protection

Here we report the effectiveness of various liposome vaccines containing Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase (GTF) in protecting against dental caries after oral immunization. Rats were immunized by gastric intubation of the appropriate liposome vaccine at weaning and boosted 3 times. Rats were infected with S. mutans following initial immunization and fed cariogenic diet (Diet 305). Saliva and serum were collected during the study and assessed for antibody activity by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mandibles were removed on day 47 and assessed for S. mutans levels and then for caries. Animals immunized with sonicated, filtered and microemulsified GTF liposome preparations had decreased levels of dental caries compared with control animals given empty liposomes. Rats given dehydrated/rehydrated or purified liposomal GTF also had significantly less caries than control group (GTF alone). Because of economy, ease of preparation and efficiency in amount of antigen used, filtered, dehydrated/ rehydrated and purified liposomal GTF preparations are most practical for use in further assessing the efficacy of liposomal GTF in oral immunization.

Conjugation of cholera toxin or its B subunit to liposomes for targeted delivery of antigens

Several immunoadjuvant systems have been proposed to enhance mucosal immune responses of orally administered purified antigens. Cholera toxin (CT) or its B subunit (CTB) have been found to promote immune responses to antigens when they are co-administered via mucosal routes. Oral administration of antigens incorporated into liposomes has also been shown to result in enhanced mucosal immune responses. Here, we describe the covalent coupling of CT and CTB to small unilamellar liposomes for targeting these vesicles to Peyer's patch M cells, following their oral administration. Conjugation was done by means of a thioether bond using succinimidyl(4-N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate to modify the dipalmitoylphosphatidyl-ethanolamine constituent of liposomes and N-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate to thiolate CT or CTB. The biological activity of CT or CTB bound to liposomes was confirmed by a hemagglutination assay using GM1-enriched human erythrocytes. Furthermore, oral administration of CT-conjugated liposomes to rats resulted in the induction of serum IgG and salivary IgA anti-CT responses. CT-conjugated liposomes may prove to be a useful system for targeted delivery and immunoenhancement of weakly immunogenic antigens.

Oral immunization of humans with dehydrated liposomes containing Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase induces salivary immunoglobulin A2 antibody responses

Seven healthy adult volunteers each ingested an enteric-coated capsule containing 500 micrograms of Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase (GTF) in dehydrated liposomes for 3 consecutive days. The immunization regimen was repeated 28 days later. Parotid saliva and plasma were collected prior to and at a weekly interval for 8 weeks following the first immunization for analysis of anti-GTF activity by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of immunoglobulin A1 (IgA1) and IgA2 anti-GTF activities increased in the parotid saliva from 5 of 7 individuals after immunization. Increases in the mean level of IgA1 and IgA2 anti-GTF responses peaked on day 35 (77% and 175% increase over baseline, respectively), although variation was noted in the kinetics and subclass of responses between individuals. No salivary IgG or IgM responses were observed. Low plasma IgM, IgG and IgA anti-GTF responses were seen in immunized subjects. Oral immunization with a dehydrated liposome-protein vaccine was effective in inducing a secretory IgA antibody response, which was primarily of the IgA2 subclass. These results provide the first evidence for the use an oral dehydrated liposome-protein vaccine in humans.

[Relation of effects of matrine on rat vasa deferens to activation of calcium channels]

Effective mechanisms of matrine (Mat) in contraction were observed in isolated rat vasa deferens. Mat caused a strong concentration-dependent contraction of vasa deferens, and this contraction was competitively inhibited by prazosin (Pra, 10 mumol.L-1) and nifedipine (Nif, 50 nmol.L-1), with depression of maximal responses. Their pA2 value was 5.1 and 9.29, respectively. The contraction was also inhibited by verapamil (Ver, 1 mumol.L-1) with depression of maximal responses; but this antagonism was noncompetitive. Its pD2 value was 6.07. Mat promoted CaCl2-induced contraction of vas deferens. The effect of Mat was enhanced in proportion to increase in concentrations of CaCl2. Mat markedly strengthened KCl-induced contraction of vas deferens. The results suggest that one of the mechanisms of the contractive effects of Mat within a certain range of concentrations was related to the activation of the calcium channel.

[Study on surgical resection length of esophageal carcinoma: an analysis of 2325 cases of the resected samples with esophageal carcinoma]

The paper studied the relationship between the resected length above and below the esophageal carcinoma and positive rate of the residual carcinoma in the resected rims. The positive rates of the carcinoma were 65.0%, 17.2%, 12.3%, 10.6%, 6.7%, 5.8%, 4.0%, 3.1%, 2.0%, 0.9% and 0% respectively while the length of the resected esophagus above and below the carcinoma was 1-10 cm and 10 cm respectively. The results shown that it would be the best for all patients with esophaged carcinoma to resect esophagus more than 10 cm in length above and below the carcinoma respectively.

Neonatal hearing impairment complicated by neonatal pneumonia. Application of auditory evoked potentials in neonatology

A group of 433 neonates with pneumonia were studied through the monitoring of audiology on the basis of epidemiology in perineonatal hearing impairment and applied auditory evoked potentials. The results showed that 29 cases had a threshold of more than 30 dBnHL in primary auditory brainstem response test (6.7%), and 19 cases with threshold, more than 40 dBnHL in primary 40Hz-auditory event related potential (40Hz-AERP) test (4.4%). The follow-up between the 3rd and 12th month after the initial test demonstrated that 12 cases had hearing impairment to various degrees.

[Blood and urine prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2 alpha in patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer]

The blood and urine prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in 106 cases of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer were investigated by RIA. Meanwhile, the relationship among PGE2, PGF2 alpha and the Syndromes of TCM were approached. The result showed: In comparing with the normal control, the blood and urine PGE2 of 106 cases were obviously higher (P < 0.01), but PGF2 alpha was not (P > 0.05). The urine PGE2 and PGF2 alpha of moderate gastritis were markedly higher than those of mild gastritis (P < 0.05), but there were no significant difference between blood PGE2, PGF2 alpha of moderate gastritis and those of mild gastritis (P > 0.05). The blood PGE2, PGE2/PGF2 alpha ratio of Dampness-Heat in Spleen-Stomach Syndrome and the blood PGE2/PGF2 alpha ratio of incoordination between Liver and Stomach Syndrome were higher than those of Spleen Stomach Deficiency Syndrome in all the cases (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control, both the decreased amplitude of blood PGE2/urine PGE2 and increased amplitude of blood PGF2 alpha/urine PGF2 alpha ratio showed as following: Spleen-Stomach Deficiency Syndrome > incoordination between Liver and stomach Syndrome > Dampness-Heat in Spleen-Stomach Syndrome. This study suggested: (1) There was a close relation between PGE2 and chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer; (2) There was no correlation between blood PGE2, PGF2 alpha and urine PGE2, PGF2 alpha; (3) PG was possibly a useful objective parameter to the Syndrome Differentiation in TCM.

Purification and characterization of two DNA helicases from calf thymus nuclei

Two DNA helicases from calf thymus nuclei have been purified and characterized. The two proteins, designated as nuclear DNA helicase I and II, were copurified on Bio-Rex 70, DEAE-Sepharose, phosphocellulose and subsequently separated from each other on a heparin-Sepharose column. Final purification of DNA helicase I was achieved on single-stranded DNA-cellulose and that of DNA helicase II on ATP-agarose. On denaturing polyacrylamide gels, nuclear DNA helicase I displayed two polypeptide bands of 170 and 200 kDa; nuclear DNA helicase II also consisted of two bands, in this case of 100 and 130 kDa. Both enzymes catalyzed the unwinding of a DNA primer from a single-stranded DNA template but had different nucleotide requirements for their energy supply. While nuclear DNA helicase I preferred to hydrolyze ATP or dATP to support its unwinding activity, nuclear DNA helicase II could utilize all four rNTPs or dNTPs, though ATP or dATP were still preferred to other nucleotides. ADP, AMP, or adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate) could not be used by either enzyme in the unwinding reactions. A divalent cation was essential for activity of both enzymes. Nuclear DNA helicase I required 3-5 mM Mg2+ or 1 mM Mn2+ for optimal unwinding. In contrast, nuclear DNA helicase II displayed high activity even at very low concentrations of Mg2+. Nuclear DNA helicase I was stimulated by NaCl, KCl, or potassium acetate up to concentrations of 150 mM; in contrast, nuclear DNA helicase II was strongly inhibited at salt concentrations over 75 mM. Both DNA helicases had an associated ATPase activity. However, while the ATPase activity of nuclear DNA helicase I was stimulated only in presence of single-stranded DNA, the ATPase activity of the nuclear DNA helicase II was stimulated by single-stranded DNA and, even more efficiently, by RNA. Finally, the translocation of both DNA helicases had a polarity from 3' to 5' with respect to the single-stranded DNA template to which the enzymes were bound. A comparison of these DNA helicases with the other reported mammalian DNA helicases will be given. The significance of the association of the two DNA helicases during the process of the purification will be discussed.