A device for subjecting vascular endothelial cells to both fluid shear stress and circumferential cyclic stretch

The proposal of the role of mechanical forces as a localizing factor of atherosclerosis has led many researchers to investigate their effects on vascular endothelial cells. Most previous efforts have concentrated on either the fluid shear stress, which results from the flow of blood, or the circumferential "hoop" stretch, which results from the expansion of the artery during the cardiac cycle. In fact, arterial endothelial cells are subjected to both fluid shear stress and cyclic hoop stretch in vivo. Therefore, a more complete investigation of mechanical phenomena on endothelial cell behavior should include both kinds of mechanical stimuli. This study was undertaken to design an experimental apparatus that could subject cultured vascular endothelial cells to simultaneous physiologic levels of both shear stress and cyclic hoop stretch. The experimental apparatus consists of four cylindrical elastic tubes so that the following conditions may be studied: (a) static conditions: (b) shear stress only; (c) hoop stretch only; and (d) shear stress and hoop stretch. In order to establish the functional capabilities of the apparatus, bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells were cultured in the tubes, and their morphology and f-actin structure were observed with confocal microscopy. The cells remained healthy and attached to the walls throughout the 24 hr experiment. Preliminary results indicated that the alignment of endothelial cells subjected to shear stress was significantly enhanced by the addition of hoop strain.

rDlx, a novel distal-less-like homeoprotein is expressed in developing cartilages and discrete neuronal tissues

From a rat chondrosarcoma we isolated a cDNA that encodes a novel homeoprotein rDlx. The homeodomain of rDlx shows a high degree of sequence identity with those of Drosophila Distal-less, mouse Dlx, and Xenopus Xdll proteins. Northern hybridization of rDlx revealed a 1.4- to 1.6-kb RNA species in a rat chondrosarcoma and a cell line derived from this tumor and in mouse C3H10T1/2 cells, but no rDlx RNA was detected in mouse NIH3T3 fibroblasts, rat skin fibroblasts, mouse C2 myoblasts, mouse myeloma S194 cells, human B-cell lymphoma Daudi cells, or human acute myelocytic leukemia cells. RNase protection assays showed that rDlx transcripts were present at high levels in 14-day-old rat embryos, 18-day-old rat embryo skeletal tissues, and adult rat brain. rDlx RNAs were present at lower levels in newborn rat rib cartilage, 18-day-old rat embryo soft tissues, newborn rat skin, and adult rat heart. rDlx transcripts were not detected in adult rat liver, spleen, lung, kidney, testis, or skeletal muscle. In situ hybridization of rat embryos at different stages revealed that rDlx transcripts were present in otic vesicle, branchial arches, apical ectodermal ridge of limb bud, developing cartilages, perichondria of mature cartilages, mesenchymal cells of developing membranous bones, developing teeth, ganglionic eminence of the telencephalon, diencephalon, olfactory epithelia, and epidermis of the skin. rDlx RNAs were also detected in the developing parasympathetic mesenteric ganglia of the gastrointestinal tract. Hence, rDlx RNAs are mainly expressed in several neuronal tissues and developing skeletal tissues.

A mutant of protein phosphatase-1 that exhibits altered toxin sensitivity

A chimeric mutant was constructed in which a 4-amino acid region (GEFD, residues 274-277) of rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1 was replaced with the sequence YRCG corresponding to residues 267-270 of rabbit protein phosphatase-2A. This was based on the findings of a gene mutation in okadaic acid-resistant cells which results in a Cys-->Gly conversion in protein phosphatase-2A. The YRCG mutant of protein phosphatase-1 was expressed and purified. The properties of the mutant enzyme were investigated in terms of its sensitivity toward several toxin inhibitors (okadaic acid, microcystin, nodularin, calyculin A, and cantharidic acid), as well as inhibitor-2. The mutant enzyme exhibited a gain of function in the form of a 10-fold increased sensitivity toward okadaic acid that suggests this region is involved in toxin binding. Significant changes in sensitivity to inhibitor-2 and several of the other toxins were also observed, indicating that these may have a common binding region.

[Preliminary investigation on acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases in Jinan area]

Eighty AFP cases under 12 years old from 6 hospitals in Jinan were investigated. Among them, there were 17 (21.25%) cases with poliomyelitis (POLIO), 40 (50.00%) cases with Guillian-Barre syndrome (GBS) and 23 (28.75%) cases with other AFP diseases. Most AFP cases occurred from May to October and no significant seasonal difference was found for each kind of AFP cases (P > 0.05), but the average age for POLIO cases (1.55 +/- 1.24) was significantly lower than that for non-POLIO AFP cases (3.76 +/- 2.58) (P < 0.01). The reporting rate from hospitals to each level of epidemic prevention station (EPS) for POLIO, GBS and other AFP cases were 100%, 12.50% and 43.75%, respectively (P < 0.01). Sixty-five AFP cases occurred in 6 prefectures around Jinan city. The average incidence rate (per 100,000) for total AFP, non-POLIO AFP and GBS cases among children under 12 years old were 1.11, 0.89 and 0.53, respectively. The results are helpful to estimate the incidence of AFP cases among children in north provinces of China and also indicate that the POLIO surveillance system in Shandong Province at the present is not sensitive enough, so the AFP cases reporting work of hospitals and the surveillance at each level of EPS should be enhanced.

Use of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction to evaluate in vivo cytokine gene expression in rats fed ethanol for long periods

We evaluated the expression of interleukin-1 alpha, interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and transforming growth factor-beta mRNAs in the intragastric-feeding rat model of alcoholic liver disease. Rats were fed different diets for periods of 2 or 4 wk. Animals fed saturated fat and ethanol and the corn oil-dextrose control group had no liver injury, whereas animals fed corn oil and ethanol showed pathologic changes. RNA was extracted from the livers at the time of killing, reverse-transcribed and amplified; polymerase chain reaction products were subjected to electrophoresis on agarose gel. Interleukin-1 alpha mRNA was present in all groups at 2 and 4 wk; interleukin-1 beta and transforming growth factor-beta mRNAs were present in all groups at 4 wk. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA was absent in all groups at 2 wk but was present in the corn oil-ethanol group only at 4 wk. Because pathological liver injury was evident in the corn oil-ethanol group by 4 wk, the presence of tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA at this time suggests a pathogenetic role for tumor necrosis factor-alpha in alcohol-induced liver injury.

Characterization of deletion mutants of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1

Deletion mutagenesis was used to define the core region of the catalytic subunit of rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1. Deletions in the N terminus were found to lead to loss of expression. Deletions of up to 33 residues from the C-terminal region were tolerated, and the truncated enzymes were fully active. Deletion of an additional 21 residues led to loss of expression. Mutants which had had 33 and 25 residues deleted maintained specific activities that were comparable to those of the wild type enzyme. The response of these two deletion mutants to okadaic acid, microcystin, and inhibitor-2 was determined. Only slightly lower IC50 values were observed in all cases, showing that the C terminus itself does not play a major role in the binding of these inhibitors. The deletion mutants formed stable complexes with inhibitor-2 as shown by gel filtration. These studies provide unambiguous evidence that the extreme C-terminal region of protein phosphatase-1 is not directly involved in catalytic function or in the binding of inhibitor-2, microcystin, or okadaic acid, and they also establish that the first approximately 300 residues of the sequence constitute a sufficient core for protein phosphatase-1 catalytic functions.

Cimetidine prevents alcoholic hepatic injury in the intragastric feeding rat model

Cytochrome P450 induction is believed to be important in the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatic disease. Because cimetidine is a general inhibitor of cytochrome P450 enzymes, it was hypothesized that it could be useful in preventing alcoholic hepatic injury. An intragastric feeding model was used these studies. Experimental animals were divided into groups of four to five rats/group and fed the following diets: corn oil+dextrose, corn oil+ethanol (CE) and corn oil+ethanol+cimetidine (250 mg kg-1 day-1) (CEC). The rats in each group were sacrificed at the following time intervals: 2 weeks, 1 month and 2 months. For each animal, the severity of the pathologic findings and relative protein levels of cytochromes P450 2E1, 2B and 4A were measured. In addition, plasma levels of thromboxane B2, 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha and 8-isoprostane were also measured. The most significant finding was that cimetidine completely prevented alcoholic hepatic injury in this model system. The pathologic scores (an indication of the severity of injury) were significantly lower in the CEC groups compared with the CE group. There was however, no significant difference in cytochrome P450 2E1, 2B or 4A protein levels between CE and CEC groups. Thromboxane B2 and 8-isoprostane levels were significantly lower and 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha, significantly higher in the CEC group than in the CE group. These results indicate that possible mechanisms involved in the protective action of cimetidine include inhibition of thromboxane production and lipid peroxidation.

DSM-III-R generalized anxiety disorder in the National Comorbidity Survey

BACKGROUND

Nationally representative general population data are presented on the current, 12-month, and lifetime prevalence of DSM-III-R generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as on risk factors, comorbidity, and related impairments.

METHODS

The data are from the National Comorbidity Survey, a large general population survey of persons aged 15 to 54 years in the noninstitutionalized civilian population of the United States. DSM-III-R GAD was assessed by lay interviewers using a revised version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

RESULTS

Generalized anxiety disorder was found to be a relatively rare current disorder with a current prevalence of 1.6% but was found to be a more frequent lifetime disorder affecting 5.1% of the US population aged 15 to 45 years. Generalized anxiety disorder was twice as common among women as among men. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that being older than 24 years, separated, widowed, divorced, unemployed, and a homemaker are significant correlates of GAD. Consistent with studies in treatment samples, we found that GAD was frequently associated with a wide spectrum of other mental disorders, with a lifetime comorbidity among 90.4% of the people who had a history of GAD.

CONCLUSION

Contrary to the traditional view that GAD is a mild disorder, we found that the majority of people with GAD, whether they were comorbid or not, reported substantial interference with their life, a high degree of professional help seeking, and a high use of medication because of their GAD symptoms. Although lifetime GAD is highly comorbid, the proportion of current GAD that is not accompanied by any other current diagnosis is high enough to indicate that GAD should be considered an independent disorder rather than exclusively a residual or prodrome of other disorders.

Cloning, sequencing, and structural analysis of the DNA encoding inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.205) from Tritrichomonas foetus

The inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) of the parasitic protozoan Tritrichomonas foetus is a purine salvage enzyme with a subunit molecular weight of 58,000. The enzyme has been purified to homogeneity by Verham et al. (Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology 24, 1-12, 1987) and characterized in more detail by Hedstrom and Wang (Biochemistry 29, 849-854, 1990). We used a polyclonal antibody directed against the purified enzyme to identify three cDNA clones from T. foetus. These clones were sequenced and found to contain an open reading frame encoding 497 amino acids. By complementation studies on an Escherichia coli mutant with its IMPDH gene deleted, the cDNA clones were able to transform the bacterial cells to grow on minimal medium without guanine. One of the cDNA clones, 2aa1, was used to identify two genomic clones, 2d1c and 3m4b, both containing a 4.1-kb HindIII fragment. The fragment was subcloned into the Bluescript KS+ plasmid, sequenced, and found to contain the same open reading frame as the cDNA clone except that it encodes six additional amino acid residues at the N-terminus. Its sequence has a 34% identity with that of the human IMPDH, 32% with that of E. coli IMPDH, and 31% with that of Leishmania donovani IMPDH. The molecular weight of the deduced protein is 55,534. Two segments of polypeptide that are conserved in all other IMPDHs, containing the putative NAD+ and IMP binding sites, are also relatively conserved in T. foetus. Since the parasite enzyme differs from the bacterial and mammalian IMPDHs by a very high Km value for NAD+ and an even higher KI value for mycophenolic acid (MPA) (Verham et al. 1987; Hedstrom and Wang 1990), the sequence of the parasite enzyme may provide information on the mechanism of MPA binding and the chance for other specific inhibitor design.

Analysis of protein binding to receptor-doped lipid monolayers by Monte Carlo simulation

This paper presents a Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method for estimating the parameters that characterize ligand-receptor binding directly from experimentally derived binding isotherms. Binding parameters are estimated by incorporating an MCS algorithm for ligand binding to a two-dimensional receptor array into a nonlinear regression program. The MCS method was tested by analyzing experimental isotherms of avidin binding to biotinylated lipid in Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) monolayers. The MCS-derived cooperativity coefficients and intrinsic association constants for avidin-biotin binding to LB films are correlated strongly (R2 > 0.93) with the binding parameters determined from the same experimental data by a thermodynamic equilibrium binding model (Zhao et al. 1993. Langmuir. 9:3166-3173). This result shows MCS to be an accurate and potentially more versatile method for characterizing biomolecular interactions at surfaces.

G1/S-regulated E2F-containing protein complexes bind to the mouse thymidine kinase gene promoter

By performing DNase I footprint analysis, we had identified three distinct protein binding sequences (MT1, MT2, and MT3) located on the mouse thymidine kinase (TK) upstream promoter (Dou, Q.-P., Fridovich-Keil, J. L., and Pardee, A.B. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 88, 1157-1161). Here we report that MT2 includes an E2F-like binding site (GTTCGCGGGCAAA), as shown by the following evidence. (i) MT2 bound specifically to an affinity-purified fusion human E2F protein. (ii) Both MT2 and an authentic E2F site (TTTCGCGCGCTTT) bound specifically to similar or identical nuclear protein complexes. (iii) Formation of both these DNA-protein complexes were cell cycle-dependent: a G0/G1 phase-specific complex (E2F.G0/G1) was replaced by an S phase-specific complex(es) (E2F.S), whereas "free" E2F increased after the G1/S transition. (iv) Pulse inhibition of protein synthesis with cycloheximide interchanged these complexes with similar kinetics. (v) When MT2-shifted E2F.G0/G1, E2F.S, and free E2F were eluted and analyzed by Western blot assay using a specific antiserum to human E2F-1, two forms of murine E2F (62 and 66 kDa) were observed from all three complexes. The compositions of these MT2-bound complexes were also investigated. Studies using specific antibodies revealed that p107, a retinoblastoma-like protein, was present in both E2F-G0/G1 and E2F.S, whereas cyclin E.cyclin A.cdk2 were only present in E2F.S complex(es). These data suggest that removal of the p107-containing E2F.G0/G1 complex, a candidate repressor, from the MT2 site in late G1 may be essential for S phase-dependent transcription of the mouse TK gene.

Lifetime and 12-month prevalence of DSM-III-R psychiatric disorders in the United States. Results from the National Comorbidity Survey

BACKGROUND

This study presents estimates of lifetime and 12-month prevalence of 14 DSM-III-R psychiatric disorders from the National Comorbidity Survey, the first survey to administer a structured psychiatric interview to a national probability sample in the United States.

METHODS

The DSM-III-R psychiatric disorders among persons aged 15 to 54 years in the noninstitutionalized civilian population of the United States were assessed with data collected by lay interviewers using a revised version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

RESULTS

Nearly 50% of respondents reported at least one lifetime disorder, and close to 30% reported at least one 12-month disorder. The most common disorders were major depressive episode, alcohol dependence, social phobia, and simple phobia. More than half of all lifetime disorders occurred in the 14% of the population who had a history of three or more comorbid disorders. These highly comorbid people also included the vast majority of people with severe disorders. Less than 40% of those with a lifetime disorder had ever received professional treatment, and less than 20% of those with a recent disorder had been in treatment during the past 12 months. Consistent with previous risk factor research, it was found that women had elevated rates of affective disorders and anxiety disorders, that men had elevated rates of substance use disorders and antisocial personality disorder, and that most disorders declined with age and with higher socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of psychiatric disorders is greater than previously thought to be the case. Furthermore, this morbidity is more highly concentrated than previously recognized in roughly one sixth of the population who have a history of three or more comorbid disorders. This suggests that the causes and consequences of high comorbidity should be the focus of research attention. The majority of people with psychiatric disorders fail to obtain professional treatment. Even among people with a lifetime history of three or more comorbid disorders, the proportion who ever obtain specialty sector mental health treatment is less than 50%. These results argue for the importance of more outreach and more research on barriers to professional help-seeking.

Optical imaging of human breast cancer

Since an increasing number of breast cancers have been reported in recent years, there is a need for improving techniques for early detection of the breast cancer. Here we tested a time gated optical imaging technique as a tool for imaging human breast. Pulsed laser light at wavelengths of 780 and 830 nm are transmitted through human breast tissues and time spectra of the diffused light through the tissue are recorded over nanoseconds. Data from different locations are acquired and used to reconstruct a two dimensional image as a set of spectra in pixel form. The imaging consists of absorption and scattering coefficients, and the absorption coefficients at the two wavelengths are related to oxygen concentration and blood volume. The analysis of these coefficients is based upon the early arrival photons, therefore allowing construction of a better image than those from the current diaphanography. We demonstrate images of breast cancer, cysts created after lumpectomy, and consequences of radiation therapy. Results show that time gated optical imaging can image oxygen concentration in the cancerous and fibrotic breasts. Resolution of the imaging for smaller tumor size needs to be improved.

Expression of recombinant inhibitor-2 in E. coli and its utilization for the affinity chromatography of protein phosphatase-1

The coding sequence for rabbit muscle protein phosphatase inhibitor-2 was inserted into the pET3a expression vector. This vector allowed the expression of recombinant inhibitor-2 at levels of ca. 1.5% of the soluble protein. A simple procedure allowed the purification of inhibitor-2 from Escherichia coli lysates. This involved heat-treatment, followed by chromatography on Blue-Sepharose and Q-Sepharose. Recombinant inhibitor-2 inhibited rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1 with a potency similar to that reported for the wild type protein. The recombinant protein was coupled to CH-Sepharose and this support was found to bind the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1 with high efficiency. A procedure for a single-step affinity purification of recombinant ppase-1 from E. coli lysates was shown to be feasible.

Somatosensory evoked potentials induced by stimulating a variable number of nerve fibers in rat

Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) were recorded from rat spinal cord (sSEPs) and cerebral cortex (cSEPs). Stimulus sites included either one or both sural nerve branches having different fiber populations (group A), or distal to a lesion of controlled size of the sural nerve made 1 week earlier (group B). In the two groups of animals, amplitudes of SEPs correlated with the quantity of large myelinated nerve fibers. Peak latencies of sSEPs in group A related to the ratio of sizes of transmitting fibers. sSEPs and cSEPs in both groups A and B could be recorded in a reproducible fashion by stimulating sural nerve branches or lesioned nerve trunks containing only 100 or less nerve fibers greater than 4 microns in size. Thus, presence of sSEPs or cSEPs after stimulation distal to a lesion site does not insure that many nerve fibers have continuity with the central nervous system (CNS).

Mutagenesis of the catalytic subunit of rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1

We have generated site-directed mutants of the catalytic subunit of rabbit muscle ppase-1. Since it is known that ppase-1 and ppase-2A are highly susceptible to inactivation by sulfhydryl reagents, we have mutagenized the six cysteine residues conserved between these two enzymes to serines. The six mutants were purified to near homogeneity by affinity chromatography on inhibitor-2-Sepharose and characterized. All six exhibited enzymatic activity. These results indicate that the catalytic mechanism of ppase-1 is different from that of the protein tyrosine phosphatases which involve a cysteinyl phosphate intermediate.

Comparison of macropore, semipermeable, and nonpermeable collagen conduits in nerve repair

Twelve rabbits were used to study functional nerve regeneration through macropore, semipermeable, and nonpermeable collagen conduits. Each animal underwent a 10-mm bilateral resection of posterior tibial nerve. Lesions were repaired with a macropore collagen tube in one leg, and with a semipermeable or a nonpermeable collagen tube contralaterally. Functional nerve regeneration was evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks post-repair periods. Functional recovery was assessed by electrophysiologic analysis of nerve conduction velocity, amplitude of nerve action potential, amplitude and area of muscle action potential, and by quantitative and qualitative histologic analysis of myelinated nerve fibers from the distal nerve stumps. The macropore-collagen-tube group showed significantly greater functional recoveries than semipermeable or nonpermeable collagen-tube groups, based on electrophysiologic and histologic analyses.

Plasma norepinephrine changes after arousal and exercise were enhanced in conscious pigs with perinephritic hypertension

This study found that pigs in the early stages of perinephritic hypertension had enhanced plasma norepinephrine (NE) and heart rate (HR) responses to behaviorally arousing stimuli (lifting in a canvas sling) and exercise. In the hypertensive animals, the increase in plasma NE in response to behavioral arousal caused by lifting was double that of the intact group, and the HR response was 50% greater. The increase in plasma NE in response to exercise was six times greater in hypertensive pigs. By contrast, mean arterial pressure changes were not enhanced in the hypertensive group. Exaggerated catecholamine responses in plasma to lifting and exercise stimulation were present when hemodynamic responses were not exaggerated.

Rapid induction of CD38 antigen on myeloid leukemia cells by all trans-retinoic acid

The CD38 or T10 molecule is one of the least understood differentiation antigens. Virtually no information is available on the regulation and functions of CD38 antigen in hematopoietic cells. Using human promyelocytic leukemia cells, we demonstrate that all trans-retinoic acid is a potent and specific inducer of CD38 expression in myeloid lineage. At physiological doses, all trans-retinoic acid induces significant levels (8 to 10-fold) of CD38. Similarly, in patients with promyelocytic leukemia, a significant increase (3 to 6-fold) in CD38 expression was observed in vivo following single oral dose administration of all trans-retinoic acid. The induction of CD38 is a specific response of myeloid cells to retinoic acid and is not seen with other agents that induce differentiation. We believe that the induction of CD38 antigen is an early event in retinoid-regulated gene expression in normal and transformed myeloid cells.

Electrochemical preparation of 1,1'-dimethylferricinium from a water-soluble 1,1'-dimethylferrocene-2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin complex and its applications in enzyme assay

Water-soluble 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (hp-beta-CyD), a cyclic and nonreducing oligosaccharide, was used to enclose the hydrophobic guest molecules ferrocene (FeCp2) and 1,1'-dimethylferrocene (DMFeCp2) to form a water-soluble complex. At high concentrations (300 mM), hp-beta-CyD enclosed up to 100 mM FeCp2 or DMFeCp2. The yellow complexes were electrochemically oxidized (platinum vs Ag/AgCl poised at +450 mV) to form the blue dyes ferricinium (FeCp2+) and 1,1'-dimethylferricinium (DMFeCp2+). This is a one-electron transfer process and the ferricinium cations formed exhibited absorption peaks at 620 and 650 nm, respectively. The concentrated DMFeCp2+ was much more stable (4 months) than the FeCp2+ (2 days) and both oxidized dyes were insensitive to a wide pH variation (pH 2-11). The DMFeCp2+ was reduced easily by various reducing agents such as ascorbic acid, uric acid, and sulfite and exhibited an absorption coefficient of 325 cm-1 M-1. Application of the novel DMFeCp2+ complex as a colorimetric dye for the enzymatic oxidation of glucose, glutamate, lactate, phenylalanine, xanthine, and hypoxanthine was successfully demonstrated. When applied to real samples the results obtained agreed well with those of standard enzymatic assays. The DMFeCp2+ complex could also be utilized to monitor activity of oxidases under saturating substrate concentrations.

Detection of Mycoplasma meleagridis by polymerase chain reaction

A pair of 32 base primers was synthesized based on the DNA sequence data of a Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM) species-specific recombinant, pMM-2. The primers were used in a MM-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a target DNA of approximately 850 bp. Annealing temperatures ranging from 58 degrees C to 61 degrees C could be used for the MM-PCR without loss of specificity. The primers amplified 1 ng of DNA from 17 strains of MM, but not 10 ng of DNA from 16 heterologous species of avian mycoplasma, pUC8 plasmid, lambda phage or calf thymus DNA. The minimum amount of target DNA detected by MM-PCR was 10 fg, which indicated that this procedure was 100000 times more sensitive than dot blot methodology using an MM recombinant DNA probe.

Expression and characterization of rat protein phosphatases-1 alpha, -1 gamma 1, -1 gamma 2, and -1 delta

Four distinct cDNAs for rat protein phosphatase-1 have been isolated from rat tissues (Sasaki et al., Jpn. J. Cancer Res. 81, 1272-1280, 1990). These cDNAs encode proteins of highly similar sequence, the major differences being located at their N and C termini. In order to demonstrate that these cDNAs encode functional proteins and to investigate their enzymatic properties, it would be desirable to obtain purified preparations of these proteins. Using a system that was developed for the expression of rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1 (Zhang et al., J. Biol. Chem. 267, 1484-1490, 1992) we have expressed these isoforms in Escherichia coli. The four recombinant isoforms were purified to near homogeneity and their properties were examined in terms of substrate specificity and sensitivity to okadaic acid and inhibitor-2.

Changes in microsomal phospholipases and arachidonic acid in experimental alcoholic liver injury: relationship to cytochrome P-450 2E1 induction and conjugated diene formation

We evaluated the role of changes in microsomal phospholipases (A and C) and arachidonic acid in the intragastric rat feeding model. The experimental animals (male Wistar rats), divided into 4-5 rats/group, were fed the following diets: corn oil and ethanol and corn oil plus dextrose. One set of groups was killed after 2 weeks of feeding, and the second set was killed after 1 month. For each animal, microsomal analysis of cytochrome P-450 2E1 (CYP 2E1) and fatty acids was done. Fourteen animals had analyses of phospholipase C (PLC) and phospholipase A (PLA), and 10 animals had measurements of conjugated dienes. A significant correlation was obtained between the level of CYP 2E1 and the decrease in arachidonic acid (AA) from baseline levels (r = 0.69, p < 0.01). The decrease in AA also correlated with the increase in conjugated dienes (r = 0.70, p < 0.05). PLA and PLC activities were both significantly increased in the corn oil and ethanol groups. The activity of PLC correlated with the decline in AA (r = 0.69, p < 0.01). The correlations noted between the decrease in microsomal AA and CYP 2E1 induction and conjugated diene formation suggest that these processes may be interlinked especially in regard to generation of lipid peroxides that may play a role in alcoholic liver injury.

Mycetomas in northern Yemen: identification of causative organisms and epidemiologic considerations

Fifteen cases of mycetomas from four locations in northern Yemen were studied. On the basis of morphologic characteristics and staining properties of the granules in discharges from the draining sinus tracts (a narrow elongated cavity that extends from a focus of suppuration or other inflammatory softening to a free surface and through which pus discharges) in the affected appendages and in tissue sections, three causative organisms were identified: Streptomyces somaliensis, Actinomadura madurae, and Madurella mycetomatis. Because of the similarity in the climate and the causative organisms, northern Yemen can be considered as being in the same endemic area for mycetomas as eastern Africa.

Molecular and biochemical reprogramming of oncogenesis through the activity of prooxidants and antioxidants

The antioxidant alpha-tocopherol and the weaker antioxidant and prooxidant chemopreventative, beta-carotene have been shown to inhibit tumor cell growth in vivo and in vitro. In some epidemiologic studies their serum levels were demonstrated to be inversely related to the incidence of malignant tumor. We hypothesized two basic pathways triggered by antioxidants and prooxidants, which resulted in the control of tumor cell growth. These included changes in phosphorylation and ultimately transcription. Specifically, the prooxidant beta-carotene treatment produced an oxidative stress resulting in the selective induction of heat shock proteins (hsps). These proteins and other proteins that were possibly oxidized were associated with the increased expression of cyclins (A and D) and increased cdc2 kinase expression. An increase in expression of phosphoproteins, such as p53 (tumor suppressor form) was also discerned. The level of expression for the transcription factor c-fos was reduced. Growth factors that contribute to tumor cell growth were also reduced. Increased DNA fragmentation, depression of proliferation and intracellular calcium levels, the accumulation of tumor cells in G0-->G1, and morphologic changes, were consistent with programmed cell death. Antioxidants such as alpha-tocopherol bound to membrane-associated proteins could inhibit the development of peroxidation products (hydroxyl radicals (.OH)), which attack proteins and modify their function and promote their degradation. Some kinases such as, cdc2 may be increased in activity, which would explain the observed increased expression of tumor suppressor p53, the accumulation of the tumor cells in G1 of the cell cycle and the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. A reduction in oxidant radicals could also reduce transcription factor products, such as c-myb. Indirectly this result may occur through changes in nuclear translocation (signaling) NF-AT or the Rel-related family of transcription factors, including NF-kB (p50 or p65) or inhibition of immunophilin-calmodulin activity. Although the data remains fragmentary there are common points for control for tumor cell growth resulting from the effects of alpha-tocopherol or beta-carotene treatment. These changes involve phosphorylation and protein expression. Ultimately there is a reduction of important transcription factor protein products, a reduction in response to growth factors, and suppression of cell proliferation, resulting in increased control of the cell cycle.

Species-specific recombinant DNA probes for Mycoplasma meleagridis

Two recombinant DNA probes (pMM-2 and pMM-13) were isolated from a Mycoplasma meleagridis strain 17529 genomic library prepared in plasmid pUC8, and Escherichia coli strain JM83. In dot blot assays, 32P-labeled pMM-13 with a DNA insert of 3.5 kbp, hybridized with 18 isolates of M. meleagridis but not with 16 other known species of avian mycoplasmas. Except for weaker signals on hybridization with the M. meleagridis cultures, pMM-2 with an DNA insert of 0.85 kbp, showed a similar reaction pattern. The minimal concentration of M. meleagridis strain 17529 chromosomal DNA that pMM-13 and pMM-2 detected were 1 and 8 ng, respectively. Neither probe hybridized with chromosomal DNA of M. gallisepticum strain S6, M. synoviae strain WVU-1853, or M. iowae strain I-695 at concentration of 256 ng.

Rhs elements of Escherichia coli K-12: complex composites of shared and unique components that have different evolutionary histories

The complete sequences of the RhsB and RhsC elements of Escherichia coli K-12 have been determined. These sequence data reveal a new repeated sequence, called H-rpt (Hinc repeat), which is distinct from the Rhs core repetition that is found in all five Rhs elements. H-rpt is found in RhsB, RhsC, and RhsE. Characterization of H-rpt supports the view that the Rhs elements are composite structures assembled from components with very different evolutionary histories and that their incorporation into the E. coli genome is relatively recent. In each case, H-rpt is found downstream from the Rhs core and is separated from the core by a segment of DNA that is unique to the individual element. The H-rpt's of RhsB and RhsE are very similar, diverging by only 2.1%. They are 1,291 bp in length, and each contains an 1,134-bp open reading frame (ORF). RhsC has three tandem copies of H-rpt, all of which appear defective in that they are large deletions and/or have the reading frame interrupted. Features of H-rpt are analogous to features typical of insertion sequences; however, no associated transposition activity has been detected. A 291-bp fragment of H-rpt is found near min 5 of the E. coli K-12 map and is not associated with any Rhs core homology. The complete core sequences of RhsB and RhsC have been compared with that of RhsA. As anticipated, the three core sequences are closely related, all having identical lengths of 3,714 bp each. Like RhsA, the RhsB and RhsC cores constitute single ORFs that begin with the first core base. In each case, the core ORF extends beyond the core into the unique sequence. Of the three cores, RhsB and RhsA are the most similar, showing only 0.9% sequence divergence, while RhsB and RhsC are the least similar, diverging by 2.9%. All three cores conserve the 28 repetitions of a peptide motif noted originally for RhsA. A secondary structure is proposed for this motif, and the possibility of its having an extracellular binding function is discussed. RhsB contains one additional unique ORF, and RhsC contains two additional unique ORFs. One of these ORFs includes a signal peptide that is functional when fused to TnphoA.

Cyclin E and cyclin A as candidates for the restriction point protein

Progression of cells into S phase is proposed to be determined by accumulation of a labile protein (the restriction point protein R; A. B. Pardee, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 71: 1286-1290, 1974). We report here that cyclin E and cyclin A proteins as well as their dependent histone H1 kinases satisfy all of the criteria for the R protein, which includes late G1 phase increase, an excess delay of appearance after inhibition of protein synthesis in nontransformed cells, and a faster recovery in transformed cells. We suggest that the molecular basis of the R protein could be cyclin production and inactivation.

Identification of two Th1 cell epitopes on the Babesia bovis-encoded 77-kilodalton merozoite protein (Bb-1) by use of truncated recombinant fusion proteins

Previous studies have demonstrated the serologic and T-cell immunogenicity for cattle of a recombinant form of the apical complex-associated 77-kDa merozite protein of Babesia bovis, designated Bb-1. The present study characterizes the immunogenic epitopes of the Bb-1 protein. A series of recombinant truncated fusion proteins spanning the majority of the Bb-1 protein were expressed in Escherichia coli, and their reactivities with bovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells and T-cell clones derived from B. bovis-immune cattle and with rabbit antibodies were determined. Lymphocytes from two immune cattle were preferentially stimulated by the N-terminal half of the Bb-1 protein (amino acids 23 to 266, termed Bb-1A), localizing the T-cell epitopes to the Bb-1A portion of the molecule. CD4+ T-cell clones derived by stimulation with the intact Bb-1 fusion protein were used to identify two T-cell epitopes in the Bb-1A protein, consisting of amino acids SVVLLSAFSGN VWANEAEVSQVVK and FSDVDKTKSTEKT (residues 23 to 46 and 82 to 94). In contrast, rabbit antiserum raised against the intact fusion protein reacted only with the C-terminal half of the protein (amino acids 267 to 499, termed Bb-1B), which contained 28 tandem repeats of the tetrapeptide PAEK or PAET. Biological assays and Northern (RNA) blot analyses for cytokines revealed that following activation with concanavalin A, T-cell clones reactive against the two Bb-1A epitopes produced interleukin-2, gamma interferon, and tumor necrosis factors beta and alpha, but not interleukin-4, suggesting that the Bb-1 antigen preferentially stimulates the Th1 subset of CD4+ T cells in cattle. The studies described here report for the first time the characterization, by cytokine production, of the Th1 subset of bovine T cells and show that, as in mice, protozoal antigens can induce Th1 cells in ruminants. This first demonstration of B. bovis-encoded Th1 cell epitopes provides a rationale for incorporation of all or part of the Bb-1 protein into a recombinant vaccine.

Babesia bovis-specific CD4+ T cell clones from immune cattle express either the Th0 or Th1 profile of cytokines

The central role of T cells in the immune response against hemoprotozoan parasites, both as helper cells for T-dependent antibody production, and as effector cells acting directly or indirectly on intracellular parasites through the elaboration of cytokines, has prompted us to investigate the bovine cellular immune response against B. bovis antigens. T cell clones generated from four B. bovis-immune cattle by in vitro stimulation with soluble or membrane associated merozoite antigen were characterized for reactivity against various forms of antigen and different geographical isolates of B. bovis and B. bigemina. The clones were categorized into seven different groups based on differential patterns of reactivity. This panel of T cell clones and additional clones specific for either the 77 kDa merozoite apical complex associated protein (Bb-1) or the 42 kDa major merozoite protein (MSA-1) were analyzed for cytokines. Biological assays to measure IL-2/IL-4, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha/TNF-beta and Northern blot analysis to detect mRNA encoding bovine IL2, IL-4, IFN-gamma, TNF-beta and TNF-alpha revealed the differential production of cytokines by clones with different antigen specificities. Two Bb-1-specific T cell clones produced the Th1 pattern of cytokines: IL-2, IFN-gamma, TNF-beta and TNF-alpha, but not IL-4. Clones specific for the 42 kDa protein produced undetectable levels of all cytokines, but expressed an unrestricted or Th0 pattern of cytokine mRNA: IL-2, IL-4, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Amplification of Mycoplasma iowae using polymerase chain reaction

Based on sequence data of Mycoplasma iowae recombinant DNA probe, pMI-12, two 25-base primers were synthesized for use in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An M. iowae species-specific 299-base pair product was amplified by the primers. An annealing temperature of 58.5 C was critical for detecting all members of this heterogeneous species while maintaining specificity of the M. iowae PCR. The minimum amount of target DNA detected by M. iowae PCR was 1 pg, which was 1000 times more sensitive than the dot-blot assay using M. iowae recombinant DNA probes.

Microdetermination of G6PD isoenzyme activity in human erythrocytes by thin-layer PAG-IEF

An improved method of microdetermination of G6PD isoenzyme activity in human erythrocytes was developed by modification of previously reported procedures. The volume of blood samples was reduced from 2 ml to 20 microliters. After hemolysis in 2% Triton X-100 and 0.1% beta-mercaptoethanol, the samples were subjected to centrifugation and thin-layer isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gel (PAG-IEF). By comparison with the original method, excellent resolution was obtained by this more rapid and simple procedure.

Subpopulations of normal peripheral blood and bone marrow cells express a functional multidrug resistant phenotype

The multidrug-resistance gene, MDR1 is expressed in many normal tissues, but little is known about its expression in normal hematopoietic cells. Using the monoclonal antibody C219 and flow cytometric analysis, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) was found to be expressed in all peripheral blood (PB) subpopulations (CD4, CD8, CD14, CD19, CD56) except granulocytes. To specifically determine MDR1 gene expression, these PB subpopulations were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and analyzed for MDR1 mRNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All subsets were positive by PCR, but only minimal MDR1 mRNA was detected in monocytes and granulocytes. Significant efflux of Rhodamine-123 (Rh-123), a measure of P-gp function, was detected in CD4+, CD8+, CD14+, CD19+, and CD56+ cells but not in granulocytes. Next, PCR-analysis was performed on FACS-sorted bone marrow (BM) cells to assess MDR1 expression in different maturational stages. Precursors (CD34+), early and late myeloid cells (CD33+/CD34+, CD33+/CD34-) as well as lymphocytes of the B-cell lineage (CD19+/CD10+, CD19+/CD10-) expressed the MDR1 gene. BM monocytic cells (CD33++/CD34-) were negative, and a very weak signal was detected in erythroid cells (glycophorin A+). Significant Rh-123 efflux was found in CD34+, CD10+, CD33+, and CD33++ BM cells, but not in glycophorin A+ cells. We conclude that PB and BM lymphocytes, PB monocytes, BM progenitors, and immature myeloid cells, but not late BM monocytes, erythroid cells, and PB granulocytes, express MDR1 mRNA and a functional P-gp. These results have to be taken into account when MDR1 expression is determined in tumor samples containing normal blood cells.

Bovine helper T cell clones recognize five distinct epitopes on Babesia bovis merozoite antigens

Helper T cell clones from two Babesia bovis-immune cattle were characterized for use in identification of potentially protective immunogens of B. bovis merozoites. Proliferation assays with 11 CD4+ clones revealed a differential pattern of response to soluble cytosolic antigen, membrane-enriched antigen, detergent extracts of the membrane-enriched antigen, soluble culture supernatant exoantigen, and different geographical isolates of B. bovis as well as Babesia bigemina parasites. When the data were combined, the clones could be grouped according to five different patterns of response. One group recognized only the membrane-enriched fraction of New World and Australian parasites. Four remaining groups recognized antigens found in the cytosolic as well as the membrane-enriched fraction, and clones representative of each group were used to identify cytosolic antigens fractionated by anion-exchange chromatography with the use of fast-performance liquid chromatography. One clone (C97.3C3), which responded to all B. bovis isolates and to B. bigemina, recognized a single peak of activity that eluted with 0.25 M NaCl and contained protein bands of 70 and 75 kDa. The remaining clones were stimulated by a second antigenic peak that eluted between 0.35 and 0.45 M NaCl and contained protein bands of 42, 47, 56, and 84 kDa. The majority of the clones produced interferon, whereas tumor necrosis factor alpha/tumor necrosis factor beta production was less frequent. These studies provide the basis for using helper T cell clones to identify potentially protective immunogens of B. bovis and delineate a minimum of five helper T cell epitopes recognized by two immune cattle.

The effect of IH764-3 on fibroblast proliferation and function

The effect of IH764-3, a potent component isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza, on the proliferation and function of cultured fibroblasts was studied. It was found that the fibroblast growth curve had a dose-dependent relationship with IH764-3 concentration. The incorporation of 3H-TdR and 3H-proline into fibroblasts was significantly inhibited by IH764-3, and calmodulin, fibronectin and thrombospondin contents in the test group were obviously lower than those in the control group. Flow cytometry showed that in the IH764-3-treated group, the percentage of cells in G0/G1 phase was higher than that in the control. Electron microscopic observation (TEM and SEM) showed that in the treated group, collagen secretion was decreased. All of these results indicate that IH764-3 exerts a direct inhibitory effect on fibroblast proliferation and affects their ability to synthesize collagen.

Control of ventricular fibrillation after coronary artery occlusion via intracerebroventricular injections

The central nervous system (CNS) may play a larger role than previously thought in the development of ventricular fibrillation after coronary artery occlusion. The probability of ventricular fibrillation after complete, permanent occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery was 52% in conscious control pigs. After the administration into the lateral cerebral ventricle of tyrosine, the amino acid precursor of the catecholamine neurotransmitters, 100% of the animals developed ventricular fibrillation. After tyrosine plus propranolol, a beta-adrenoceptor antagonist, only 9% of pigs developed ventricular fibrillation. Treatment with propranolol alone did not affect the outcome. Catecholamine synthesis in the CNS may be associated with the development of ventricular fibrillation after coronary artery occlusion.

Magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) imaging of skeletal muscle at 0.26 Tesla--changes in signal intensity following exercise

Magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) imaging of skeletal muscle before and after exercise has been studied in normal volunteers at 0.26 Tesla. A saturation pulse was applied over a range of offset frequencies immediately before a gradient recall echo sequence. Substantial signal loss was observed in all muscles. After exercise, selective saturation resulted in a significant increase of contrast between active and less active muscle, a phenomenon attributable to an increase in extracellular water content. MTC imaging provides a more sensitive method to detect changes in water distribution in human skeletal muscle.

The role of oxygen free radicals in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

A series of experiments have been done to investigate the role of oxygen free radicals in ischemia/reperfusion injury. The following results were found: Myocardial MDA content increased significantly after post-ischemic reperfusion in vivo and in vitro. A blockade of the xanthine oxidase pathway for free radical generation could provide effective protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Exogenous reactive oxygen intermediates H2O2, .OH and O2- could induce changes in the contractility and electrophysiological properties of myocardial cells similar to those seen in ischemia/reperfusion. An outburst of free radical generation was detected by ESR spectroscopy at low temperature (-173 degrees C) and with the spin trapping technique during the very early phase of reperfusion. The authors emphasize the important role of free radicals in the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury.

[Clinical and experimental research of the treatment of chronic renal failure with shenshuaifang]

33 cases of chronic renal failure (CRF) patients were treated by coloclysis with Chinese medicine Shenshuaifang (SSF). The effective rate was 60.61%, the total effective rate was 87.88%. It showed significant difference in the total effective rate compared with the control group (P less than 0.05). Animal experiments showed SSF could slow down the rising of the blood Cr and BUN of the mice which suffered with CRF, and reduce their urine protein. Conclusion. SSF had good effect on lowering the blood Cr and BUN of the CRF patients, so it could delay the progress of CRF, and it's effect was better than the general medical conservative treatment.

[Effects of semen Ziziphis Spinosae oil and Ziziphis Spinosae extract on the decrease of serum lipoprotein and inhibiton of platelet aggregation]

Our experiments have shown that oral administration of Semen Ziziphis Spinosae oil(SZSO) or Ziziphis Spinosae extract (ZSE) given to quails for 53 days can significantly reduce their TC, LDL and TG and markedly subdue the fatty degeneration in their livers. Also, SZSO pressed into the stomach of rats for five days can conspicuously inhibit their platelet aggregation, while ZSE cannot.

[Protective effect of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch and its extracts on the chronic desensitization of beta-adrenoceptors in guinea pigs]

Histamine-induced wheezing test is conjunction with radioligand binding assay showed that after long-term administration of isoprenaline the reactivity and R, value (total receptor binding sites) of beta-adrenoceptors in the lung tissue of guinea pigs were reduced. The decoction of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch or its extractive LX56 given intraperitoneally could prevent these changes, but the decoction per os or glycyrrhetinic acid given intraperitoneally could not.

Synthesis of (+/-)-N-2-methylpropyl-N-1'-methylacetonyl-nitrosamine

N-2-methylpropyl-N-1-methylacetonyl-nitrosamine (NMAMPA), first isolated from moldy and normal foods, was synthesized by chemical means. The structure and molecular weight of the synthetic NMAMPA were elucidated by spectrometry. A combination of spectral and chromatographic data indicated that the synthetic NMAMPA is identical to that obtained naturally. Synthetic NMAMPA is a racemic modification, and a carcinogen which can induce esophageal and forestomach cancer in rats.

[Experimental research of the effect of polysaccharides in semen Ziziphis Spinosae and Ziziphis Spinosae on enhancing the immune function of mice injured by radiation]

This article surveys the pharmacological effect of the polysaccharides in Semen Ziziphis Spinosae and Ziziphis Spinosae. The result shows that oral administration of this polysaccharide (0.1g/kg/d) can strengthen the immune function of cells nd body fluids and to a certain extent protect mice from radioactive injuries.