Ossifying fibromas of the jaw bone: 20 cases

The purpose of this article is to report 20 cases of ossifying fibroma involving the jaw bone and to review the literature of this lesion. All the cases had adequate radiographs and clinical information. Varying shapes of the lesion including cystic lesion and mixed density lesion are presented, including two massive expansile lesions, which measured more than 10 cm.

Tabletop soft-x-ray Fourier transform holography with 50 nm resolution

We present what we believe to be the first implementation of Fourier transform (FT) holography using a tabletop coherent x-ray source. By applying curvature correction to compensate for the large angles inherent in high-NA coherent imaging, we achieve image resolution of 89 nm using high-harmonic beams at a wavelength of 29 nm. Moreover, by combining holography with iterative phase retrieval, we improve the image resolution to <53 nm. We also demonstrate that FT holography can be used effectively with short exposure times of 30 s. This technique will enable biological and materials microscopy with simultaneously high spatial and temporal resolution on a tabletop soft-x-ray source.

[Humoral immune response in mice to hybrid nucleic acid vaccines containing Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 block 17-based gene]

AIM

To analyse the humoral immune response in mice to nucleic acid vaccines (VR1012/HG-MSP1-17 for intracellular expression or VR1012/TPA/HG-MSP-17 for secretion) containing Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) 17 block gene and gene fragment of several T cell epitopes from MSA1, MSA2, RESA, IL-1 and TT.

METHODS

BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice received three times intramuscular immunization with 200 micrograms/100 microliters or 100 micrograms/100 microliters of VR1012/HG-MSP1-17 or VR1012/TPA/HG-MSP1-17 per mouse each time. Anti-HG or anti-MSP1-17 antibodies were monitored by indirect ELISA.

RESULTS

BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice immunized with 100 micrograms/100 microliters of VR1012/HG-MSP1-17 per mouse raised significantly anti-HG and anti-MSP1-17 antibodies, but the levels of antibodies were not high. BALB/c mice immunized with 200 micrograms/100 microliters of VR1012/HG-MSP1-17 per mouse raised higher anti-HG antibodies but not anti-MSP1-17 antibodies. BALB/c mice immunized with 200 micrograms/100 microliters of VR1012/TPA/HG-MSP1-17 per mouse raised low level of anti-HG antibodies only.

CONCLUSION

VR1012/HG-MSP1-17 is more immunogenic than VR1012/TPA/HG-MSP1-17.

Morphology changes of nanocrystals induced by a small amount of water in the composite-hydroxide-mediated approach

The influence of water on morphology and structure of nanomaterials synthesized by the composite-hydroxide-mediated (CHM) approach has been systematically investigated. A small amount of water would affect the morphology and size, while a large amount of water would affect not only the morphology, but the structure of nanomaterials. The experimental results indicate that the nanocrystals prefer anisotropic growth and form more regular shape by the CHM route to hydrothermal synthesis.

Morphological variety of the soft palate in normal individuals: a digital cephalometric study

OBJECTIVES

The literature describes the morphology of the soft palate as being of only one kind and ignores its diversity, but in our clinical work we discovered that the morphology of the soft palate has a variable presentation on lateral cephalometry. The aim of our study was to investigate the variation of the velar morphology.

METHODS

In this study, the sample comprised 200 normal subjects whose ages ranged from 5-48 years (mean 19.37 years). The morphology of the soft palate on lateral cephalometry was examined and classified into six types. The dimensional differences of the soft palate between each pair of types and the differences in proportion to different age and gender groups were also studied.

RESULTS

The morphology of the soft palate was classified into six types. There was a significant difference between the pre-adult and adult groups and also between male and female groups in proportion to velar type. The velar length in Type 3 was significantly shorter than in all other types apart from Type 6. However, there was no significant difference between any two of the other 5 types.

CONCLUSIONS

The soft palate has variable radiographic appearances on lateral cephalometry. The classification system and statistical findings here may help the research of velopharyngeal closure in cleft palate individuals, and aetiological study of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and other conditions.

Osteochondromas of the mandibular condyle: variance in radiographic appearance on panoramic radiographs

OBJECTIVES

Osteochondromas are frequently found in the general skeleton, but are rare in the mandibular condyle. Radiographically, most reports describe osteochondromas as a mushroom-shaped bony enlargement capped with cartilage on the condylar surface. However, the radiographic appearance of this lesion on the panoramic radiograph has rarely been studied. The purpose of this article is to increase the radiographic knowledge of mandibular condylar osteochondroma and facilitate making an exact diagnosis through observing the lesional appearance on panoramic radiograph.

METHODS

The panoramic radiographs of 12 cases of mandibular condylar osteochondromas were reviewed. All cases were obtained from the Department of Oral Radiology, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, between 1988 and 2006. The final diagnoses of all cases were based on pathology.

RESULTS

Osteochondromas may arise on different areas around the mandibular condyle and present diverse appearances on panoramic radiograph.

CONCLUSIONS

The mandibular condylar osteochondromas may show different growth positions encircling the condyle and exhibit varying shapes on panoramic radiograph. These features will help us to increase cognition of the lesion and make an exact diagnosis.

Cytochrome P450 3A5 genotype is associated with verapamil response in healthy subjects

We hypothesized that CYP3A5 genotype contributes to the interindividual variability in verapamil response. Healthy subjects (n=26) with predetermined CYP3A5 genotypes were categorized as expressers (at least one CYP3A5(*)1 allele) and nonexpressers (subjects without a CYP3A5(*)1 allele). Verapamil pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were determined after 7 days of dosing with 240 mg daily. There was a significantly higher oral clearance of R-verapamil (165.1+/-86.4 versus 91.2+/-36.5 l/h; P=0.009) and S-verapamil (919.4+/-517.4 versus 460.2+/-239.7 l/h; P=0.01) in CYP3A5 expressers compared to nonexpressers. Consequently, CYP3A5 expressers had significantly less PR-interval prolongation (19.5+/-12.3 versus 44.0+/-19.4 ms; P=0.0004), and had higher diastolic blood pressure (69.2+/-7.5 versus 61.6+/-5.1 mm Hg; P=0.036) than CYP3A5 nonexpressers after 7 days dosing with verapamil. CYP3A5 expressers display a greater steady-state oral clearance of verapamil and may therefore experience diminished pharmacological effect of verapamil due to a greater steady state oral clearance.

Increased expression of nucleophosmin/B23 in hepatocellular carcinoma and correlation with clinicopathological parameters

Nucleophosmin (NPM, B23, numatrin, NO38) is an abundant nucleolar phosphoprotein involved in multiple cellular functions. Previous evidence indicates that high-level expression of NPM causes uncontrolled cell growth and suggests that NPM may have oncogenic potential. In this study, we examined NPM expression in 103 paired cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 12 cases of hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia, 17 cases of liver tissue adjacent to a hepatic haemangioma, and series of array tissues from normal human organs and malignancies using a monoclonal antibody against NPM and reverse transcription-PCR techniques, Western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunocytofluorescence. Our data indicated that NPM expression was significantly higher in HCC than in the non-malignant hepatocytes (P<0.001). Nucleophosmin was weakly expressed in hepatocytes from a 5-month-old embryo and in stationary hepatocytes of healthy adults. Moreover, enhanced expression of NPM in HCC correlated with the level of PCNA (R(2)=0.5639) and with the clinical prognostic parameters such as serum alpha fetal protein level, tumour pathological grading, and liver cirrhosis (P<0.05). Our results suggest that NPM may play an important role in the progression of tumorigenesis and that NPM may serve as a potential marker for HCC.

Blocking BRE expression in Leydig cells inhibits steroidogenesis by down-regulating 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase

Conversion of cholesterol to biologically active steroids is a multi-step enzymatic process. Along with some important enzymes, like cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) and 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3beta-HSD), several proteins play key role in steroidogenesis. The role of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein is well established. A novel protein, BRE, found mainly in brain, adrenals and gonads, was highly expressed in hyperplastic rat adrenals with impaired steroidogenesis, suggesting its regulation by pituitary hormones. To further elucidate its role in steroidogenic tissues, mouse Leydig tumor cells (mLTC-1) were transfected with BRE antisense probes. Morphologically the BRE antisense cells exhibited large cytoplasmic lipid droplets and failed to shrink in response to human chorionic gonadotropin. Although cAMP production, along with StAR and P450scc mRNA expression, was unaffected in BRE antisense clones, progesterone and testosterone yields were significantly decreased, while pregnenolone was increased in response to human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation or in the presence of 22(R)OH-cholesterol. Furthermore, whereas exogenous progesterone was readily converted to testosterone, pregnenolone was not, suggesting impairment of pregnenolone-to-progesterone conversion, a step metabolized by 3beta-HSD. That steroidogenesis was compromised at the 3beta-HSD step was further confirmed by the reduced expression of 3beta-HSD type I (3ss-HSDI) mRNA in BRE antisense cells compared with controls. Our results suggest that BRE influences steroidogenesis through its effects on 3beta-HSD action, probably affecting its transcription.

[Comparison of immune responses elicited by recombinant protein and eukaryotic expression plasmid based on histidine rich protein 2 of Plasmodium falciparum]

OBJECTIVE

To identify the immune characteristics of different vaccine prototypes based on HRP2 and to provide experimental evidence for developing P. f. blood stage vaccines.

METHODS

BALB/c mice were immunized with recombinant protein TP-HRP2 or eukaryotic expression plasmid pcDNA3.1(-)/HRP2. The kinetics and specificities of antibody responses were analyzed. The proliferation tests of spleen cells were done, and P. f. growth inhibition assays were done with immune sera.

RESULTS

The mice immunized with TP-HRP2 in Freund's adjuvant produced high-level and high-specificity antibody response. The antibodies appeared rapidly and lasted for a longer time. Cellular responses were induced simultaneously, and the immune sera could inhibit the development of parasite in IRBCs. The mice immunized with pcDNA3.1(-)/HRP2 produced middle-level antibody response which had some specificity, however, the induction of antibodies required repeated inoculation and a longer duration. Immune cells were well primed and the memorial immune response was obvious but the immune sera had no effect on the growth of P.f. in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Both the recombinant protein and plasmid DNA based on HRP2 have different immune characteristics in mice. HRP2 recombinant protein has the potential in practical application.

[Immune response in mice induced by C terminal encoding gene of Plasmodium falciparum histidine rich protein. 2]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the humoral and cellular immune responses in mice to eukaryotic expression recombinant plasmid encoding histidine rich protein 2 (HRP-II) of Plasmodium falciparum.

METHODS

The start and stop codes were introduced into HRP-II gene fragment, the reading frame and the position of start and stop codes in HRP-II were identified by sequencing. HRP-II fragment containing the start and stop codes was cloned into pcDNA3.1 (-) to form pcDNA3.1 (-)/HRP-II. The BALB/c mice were immunized i.m. with the plasmids for 3 times in 3 weeks intervals. Two weeks after the last immunization, the sera and splenocytes were collected to investigate anti-HRP-II antibodies by ELISA and the splenocytes proliferation response to HRP-II.

RESULTS

Sequence data show that the reading frame and the position of start and stop codes are correct. Restriction enzyme digestion indicated that the HRP-II gene fragment containing start and stop codes was successfully cloned into pcDNA3.1 (-). Mice raised significant anti-HRP-II antibodies after pcDNA3.1 (-)/HRP-II immunization, and the splenocytes proliferated prominently when stimulated with HRP-II protein.

CONCLUSION

Eukaryotic expression recombinant plasmid encoding HRP-II gene can induce significantly humoral and cellular immune response in mice. HRP-II gene may be a good candidate for P. falciparum blood-stage multiple DNA vaccine.

Evaluation of polyaluminium ferric chloride (PAFC) as a composite coagulant for water and wastewater treatment

Coal gangue is a kind of waste from coal mine processing. Polyaluminium ferric chloride (PAFC), a new type of inorganic composite coagulant, was prepared by using the waste from the Mineral Bureau of Yanzhou, China, hydrochloric acid and calcium carbonate as raw materials. The relationship between the stability of ferric ion and the ionic strength of solution was investigated. The zeta potential of PAFC hydrolysis products of PAFC and the coagulation performances under different pH value were discussed. The turbidity removal properties of PAFC, polyaluminium (PAC) and polyferric sulfate (PFS) were compared, and the color removal effect of PAFC for the wastewater containing suspended dyes was also tested. In addition, the coagulation performance of PAFC for actual wastewaters from petrochemical plant, iron and steel plant, and coal mining processing was evaluated. The experimental results suggest that PAFC took a maximum value of zeta potential at about pH 5.8 on the positive side. Compared with PAC, PAFC gives better turbidity removal performance in the range of pH from 7.0 to 8.4. PAFC gives good color removal performance on suspension dyes. PAFC also gives good wastewater purifying results for the actual wastewater. Therefore, PAFC is a high-effect and stable water treatment agent.

Lensless imaging: a workshop on "new approaches to the phase problem for non-periodic objects."

Over the past two decades, theoretical tools and algorithms have been developed which, under not very restrictive conditions, allow the reconstruction of images from diffraction patterns of non-periodic objects. These methods promise lensless imaging for any radiation, free of aberrations, with wavelength-limited resolution. Recent experimental successes prompted an interdisciplinary international workshop on this topic at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA, on May 17-19 2001, supported by the DOE, LBL and the Advanced Light Source. Our aim was to review the field, and to stimulate communication between the Signal Recovery, Coherent Optics, X-ray, Electron Microscopy and Applied Mathematics communities. The results are summarized in this paper and on the web. A second workshop is planned for 2003.

[Spiral CT study of superior vena cava syndrome: correlation between collateral pathways and obstruction site and degree]

BACKGROUND

To study the collateral pathways of superior vena cava syndrome ( SVCS) .

METHODS

Thirty-one spiral CT phlebograms of patients with SVCS were obtained. Superior vena cava was divided into upper and lower segment by azygos arch, and the collateral pathways were divided into anterior and posterior groups according to their sites in the chest wall. The distribution of collateral pathways and obstruction site and degree of SVC were observed and analysed statistically . The drainage of SVCS was determined.

RESULTS

Anterior group of collateral pathways, vertebral venous plexus and posterior intercostal veins were related to obstruction of upper segment of SVC ( P < 0. 05) . Obstruction of the lower part of SVC has relation to the hemiazygos vein ( P < 0. 05) . The correlation between obstructive degree and distribution of collateral pathways was not distinct in this study ( P > 0. 05) . When obstruction of upper segment of SVC occurred, blood could return to heart through azygos vein or anterior group vessels. While lower segment of SVC was occluded, blood could reflux through azygos vein and hemiazygos vein to right atrium.

CONCLUSIONS

Distribution of collateral pathways in SVCS is closely related to the obstruction site of SVC, but not to the degree of obstruction.

Studies of digital microscopic holography with applications to microstructure testing

We propose an in-line digital microscopic holography system for testing of microstructures. With the incorporation of a long-distance microscope with digital holography, the system is capable of imaging test microstructures with high resolution at sufficient working distances to permit good illumination of samples. The system, which was developed in an in-line configuration, achieves high imaging capacity and exhibits properties that are favorable for micromeasurement. We demonstrate the performance of the system with experiments to determine the displacement of a silicon microcantilever and with investigations of the microscopic resolution capability.

High frequency of beta-catenin mutations in hepatoblastoma

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is an embryonic neoplasm representing the most frequent malignant liver tumour in childhood. Its tumourigenesis at the molecular level is still poorly understood, and candidate genes are yet to be identified. According to recent reports describing beta-catenin mutations (BCM) at hot-spot regions involving exon 3 in several types of malignancies including HB, we investigated BCM in 16 HBs classified into different histological types. One tumour had been previously confirmed to harbour adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) mutations that exhibit a similar oncogenic effect to that of BCM. Mutations in both exon 3 and its flanking region of the beta-catenin gene were investigated and determined. Twelve tumours (75%) revealed pathogenic BCM, including 5 with missense mutations at codons 32, 34, or 37 and 7 with interstitial deletions that partially or totally affected exon 3. All 7 deletions were in-frame deletions without frameshift. A single nucleotide change at codon 31 regarded as non-pathogenic polymorphism was detected in the tumour possessing APC mutations. Therefore, a total of 13 tumours (81%) were compromised by an enhanced beta-catenin-mediated transcription pathway. Mutations were observed in every histological type of HB. The very high frequency without correlation to histological type indicates that BCM are crucial events in the tumourigenesis of HB.

[An initial study on DSA features of pulmonary hypoperfusion second to cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery in lung cancer]

BACKGROUND

To study digital subtraction angiography ( DSA) features of pulmonary hypoperfusion in lung cancer with cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery ( CICPA) .

METHODS

Twenty-six cases of lung cancer combined with CICPA underwent pulmonary DSA. The DSA features of pulmonary hypoperfusion, including pulmonary vessel signs and lung parenchyma signs, were observed, and the time-density curve( TDC) of both abnormal sides and the coordinate normal sides was drawn and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 38 lobar arteries showing cancerous invasion in 26 cases and 34 ( 89. 5%) lobes presenting pulmonary hypoperfusion. There was a good correlation between pulmonary hypoperfusion and the degree of central pulmonary artery ( CPA) stenosis ( P < 0. 05) . DSA pulmonary vessel signs included abrupt cut-off ( 11. 8%, 4/ 34) or less branches ( 88. 2%, 30/ 34) of pulmonary arteries, and disappearance ( 41. 2%, 14/ 34) or decrease ( 58. 8%, 20/ 34) of terminal pulmonary arteries. DSA lung parenchyma signs were pulmonary capillary perfusion disappearing ( 14. 7%, 5/ 34) or weakening ( 85. 3%, 29/ 34) .

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary lobes supplied by central pulmonary arteries invaded by lung cancers usually present pulmonary hypoperfusion. Pulmonary hypoperfusion is closely correlative with the degree of CPA stenosis. Pulmonary vessel signs and lung parenchyma signs are very important phenomena of pulmonary hypoperfusion.

[Three dimensional quantitative structure activity relationship of P450(17) alpha inhibitors of 17-substituted steroids]

AIM

To develop a three dimensional quantitative structure activity relationship (3D-QSAR) model and gain further insights into the requirements for potential P450(17) alpha inhibitors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A predictive 3D pharmacophore model was established based on comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA). The correlation between the activities and structures was significant with cross-validated value (R2cv), non-cross-validated value (R2) and standard error of estimate (SEE) of 0.538, 0.799 and 0.257, respectively. According to this model, the predicted inhibition activities of three compounds synthesized in our laboratory were compatible to actual activities.

CONCLUSION

This model would contribute to the understanding of the interaction between the inhibitors and P450(17) alpha and rational design of novel lead molecules.

An approach to three-dimensional structures of biomolecules by using single-molecule diffraction images

We describe an approach to the high-resolution three-dimensional structural determination of macromolecules that utilizes ultrashort, intense x-ray pulses to record diffraction data in combination with direct phase retrieval by the oversampling technique. It is shown that a simulated molecular diffraction pattern at 2.5-A resolution accumulated from multiple copies of single rubisco biomolecules, each generated by a femtosecond-level x-ray free electron laser pulse, can be successfully phased and transformed into an accurate electron density map comparable to that obtained by more conventional methods. The phase problem is solved by using an iterative algorithm with a random phase set as an initial input. The convergence speed of the algorithm is reasonably fast, typically around a few hundred iterations. This approach and phasing method do not require any ab initio information about the molecule, do not require an extended ordered lattice array, and can tolerate high noise and some missing intensity data at the center of the diffraction pattern. With the prospects of the x-ray free electron lasers, this approach could provide a major new opportunity for the high-resolution three-dimensional structure determination of single biomolecules.

[An initial imaging study on pulmonary artery hypertension secondary to cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery in lung cancer]

BACKGROUND

To investigate the incidence of pulmonary artery hypertension secondary to cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery (CICPA) in lung cancer and the diagnostic value of CT on pulmonary artery hypertension.

METHODS

Twenty cases of lung cancer combined with CICPA underwent pulmonary artery pressure measurement through right heart catheterization and CT scanning. CT findings were blindly assessed and were compared with the results of pulmonary artery pressure measurement.

RESULTS

Three cases (3/20, 15%) showed mild pulmonary artery hypertension in arteries proximal to CICPA segments, in which CT findings were dilation of the main pulmonary artery and increase of the diameter ratio of the main pulmonary artery to the descending aorta at the same level. CT diagnostic accuracy for pulmonary artery hypertension was 90%(18/20).

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary artery hypertension occurs with low incidence in lung cancer with CICPA. CT is of great value in diagnosing pulmonary artery hypertension in lung cancer with CICPA.

Differential expression of a stress-modulating gene, BRE, in the adrenal gland, in adrenal neoplasia, and in abnormal adrenal tissues

Genes that modulate the action of hormones and cytokines play a critical role in stress response, survival, and in growth and differentiation of cells. Many of these biological response modifiers are responsible for various pathological conditions, including inflammation, infection, cachexia, aging, genetic disorders, and cancer. We have previously identified a new gene, BRE, that is responsive to DNA damage and retinoic acid. Using multiple-tissue dot-blotting and Northern blotting, BRE was recently found to be strongly expressed in adrenal cortex and medulla, in testis, and in pancreas, whereas low expression was found in the thyroid, thymus, small intestine and stomach. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining indicated that BRE was strongly expressed in the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex, which synthesizes and secretes the mineralocorticoid hormones. It is also highly expressed in the glial and neuronal cells of the brain and in the round spermatids, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells of the testis, all of which are associated with steroid hormones and/or TNF synthesis. However, BRE expression was downregulated in human adrenal adenoma and pheochromocytoma, whereas its expression was enhanced in abnormal adrenal tissues of rats chronically treated with nitrate or nitrite. These data, taken together, indicate that the expression of BRE is apparently associated with steroids and/or TNF production and the regulation of endocrine functions. BRE may play an important role in the endocrine and immune system, such as the cytokine-endocrine interaction of the adrenal gland.

[Analysis of causes of death and YPLL on residents in the industrial pollution area in Chongqing from 1991 to 1998]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the causes of death in residents living in the area of industrial pollution in Chongqing.

METHODS

Mortality rate, sequence of causes of death, years of potential life lost (YPLL) and the valued years of potential life lost (VYPLL) were used to analyze causes of death in 1991 - 1998. Community not polluted by industry was chosen to serve as control.

RESULTS

The annual average mortality rate of the residents was 7.34 per thousand (standard mortality rate 4.61 per thousand). The sequence of major causes of death was shown as below: malignant tumors (mortality rate 198.07/10(5), standard mortality rate 126.35/10(5)), cerebrovascular diseases (mortality rate 159.13/10(5), standard mortality rate 92.66/10(5)), respiratory system diseases (mortality rate 107.33/10(5), standard mortality rate 84.85/10(5)), cardiac diseases (mortality rate 95.36/10(5), standard mortality rate 59.37/10(5)) and accidental deaths (mortality rate 47.08/10(5), standard mortality rate 43.28/10(5)). Among malignant tumors, lung cancer took the lead with a mortality rate of 65.49/10(5) (standard mortality rate 45.27/10(5)). In both sequences of standard rates of YPLL and VYPLL for major causes of deaths, accidental death was always took the first place.

CONCLUSION

In order to reduce mortality rate of the residents in the area, it is necessary to strengthen the administration of natural and social environment of the area.

[The application of spiral CT angiography in cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery in lung cancer]

BACKGROUND

To apply spiral CT angiography( SCTA) as imaging method of pulmonary angiography and study the imaging findings of cancerous invasion of central pulmonary artery (CICPA) in lung cancer patients by means of spiral CT pulmonary angiography (SCTPA) .

METHODS

Thirty patients with central type of lung cancer proved by bronchoscopy biopsy or surgery underwent SCTPA, and 30 cases who had negative results on conventional CT as control. Technic parameters of SCTPA applied for both groups were as follows: contrast medium injection rate of 3-4ml/ s, collimation of 3mm, pitch of 1. 5, reconstruction interval of 1. 2 mm. The CT manifestations of vessel course and lumen of central pulmonary artery(CPA) were observed and the enhancement intensity of CICPA segment wasmeasured by 3-D imaging of CTA.

RESULTS

The changes of vessel course were found in 18 cases( 60%) . The direction of displacement of CPA was different depending on predominant site of the mass and the pathway of CICPA. Centripetal or eccentric stenosis of CPA lumen in various degree with rigid and smooth contour was visualized in 26 cases( 86. 7%) . Decreased enhancement intensity of CPA was significantly shown in cases whose CPA lumen severely narrowed ( P < 0. 05) , and not distinct while stenosis of CPA lumen wasmild tomoderate degree ( P > 0. 05) .

CONCLUSIONS

The direct CT signs of CICPA in lung cancer by SCTPA in this study include displacement of vessel course, stenosis of lumen and decreased intensity of contrast enhancement of CPA. SCTPA is a significant complement to conventional CT in diagnosis of CICPA in lung cancer.

Bone-marrow microinvolvement in non-small cell lung cancer is not a reliable indicator of tumour recurrence and prognosis

AIMS

This study aimed to examine the incidence of bone-marrow microinvolvement in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and its correlation with tumour recurrence and prognosis.

METHODS

Between March 1997 and August 1998, we analysed 96 bone-marrow specimens (from the posterior iliac crest) of NSCLC patients before surgery. Tumour differentiation showed well differentiated carcinoma in six, moderately differentiated carcinoma in 69, and poorly differentiated carcinoma in 21. p-TNM staging showed stage Ia in five, stage Ib in 33, stage IIb in 19, stage IIIa in 26, stage IIIb in eight, and stage IV in five. The specimens were examined by immunohistochemical staining with anti-human cytokeratin AE1/AE3 and clone MNF116 mixed solution (Ab1, n=96) and/or Ber-EP4 (Ab2, n=80) to detect the presence of malignant epithelial cells in the bone marrow.

RESULTS

Positive results were observed in 21 patients (21. 9%). The occurrence of bone-marrow microinvolvement was not related to patient age, sex, cell type, or TNM status. The 30-month disease-free survival rates were 50.2% and 53.9% in bone-marrow negative and bone-marrow positive patients, respectively (P=0.5670); the 30-month cumulative survival rates were 66.7% and 67.6% in bone-marrow negative and bone-marrow positive patients, respectively (P=0.9351). Multivariate analysis failed to demonstrate bone-marrow microinvolvement as an independent prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that bone-marrow microinvolvement is not unusual, and its occurrence cannot be translated into early tumour recurrence or poor outcome during an intermediate-term follow-up, which means bone-marrow microinvolvement may be an epiphenomenon rather than true metastasis in NSCLC.

Illumination for coherent soft X-ray applications: the new X1A beamline at the NSLS

The X1A soft X-ray undulator beamline at the NSLS has been rebuilt to serve two microscopy stations operating simultaneously. Separate spherical-grating monochromators provide the resolving power required for XANES spectroscopy at the C, N and O absorption edges. The exit slits are fixed and define the coherent source for the experiments. The optical design and the operational performance are described.

The oversampling phasing method

Sampling the diffraction pattern of a finite specimen more finely than the Nyquist frequency (the inverse of the size of the diffracting specimen) corresponds to surrounding the electron density of the specimen with a no-density region. When the no-density region is bigger than the electron-density region, sufficient information is recorded so that the phase information can be retrieved from the oversampled diffraction pattern, at least in principle. By employing an iterative algorithm, the phase information from the oversampled diffraction pattern of a micrometre-sized test specimen has been successfully retrieved. This method is believed to be able to open a door for high-resolution three-dimensional structure determination of complex and non-crystalline biological specimens, i.e. whole cells and sub-micrometre molecular clusters and micrometre-sized protein crystals. With the possible appearance in the future of X-ray free-electron lasers, it may become possible to image single molecules by recording diffraction patterns before radiation damage manifests itself.

Identification of the subcellular localization of daunorubicin in multidrug-resistant K562 cell line

We examined the subcellular distribution of daunorubicin (DNR) in resistant K562 cell line which overexpress the P-glycoprotein by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Three fluorescent probes - Rhodamine123, neutral red, NBD-ceramide, which stain the mitochondria, lysosomes, Golgi apparatus respectively, were used to identify the nature of the subcellular compartment sequestering daunorubicin. In sensitive k562 cell line, nuclear and cytoplasmic DNR fluorescence was intense and diffuse. In contrast, resistant K562 cell line showed a different DNR distribution. A bright fluorescence signal was located in the perinuclear region and peripheral plasma, the nucleus and other cytoplasmic region appear as empty, as suggested by the distribution of fluorescent probe Rhodamine123 specifically for mitochondria. Verapamil, an effective resistance modulator in P-glycoprotein MDR cells, restored the DNR distribution closer to that in the parent cells. Golgic inhibitor brefeldin A and lysosomotropic agent chloroquine had little effect on drug sequestration. Our studies demonstrate that daunorubicin may be sequestered in mitochondrial compartment in the resistant cells and P-glycoprotein plays an important role on mediating DNR transport.

[Effects of PML and PML-RAR alpha antisense oligonucleotides on promyelocytic leukemia cell line NB4]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the different effects of anti-PML (promyelocytic leukemia) and anti-PML/RAR alpha (promyelocytic leukemia/retionic acid receptor alpha) antisense oligonucleotides on cell growth, expression of PML-RAR alpha mRNA and PML-RAR alpha/PML protein location of NB4 cell line.

METHODS

RT-PCR was used for PML-RAR alpha mRNA expression, trypan blue exclusion for cell count, methylcellulose assay for leukemic colony forming unit, immuno-fluorescence for PML-RAR alpha/PML protein localization.

RESULTS

Both anti-PML start codon region antisense (STAS) and anti-PML-RAR alpha fusion region antisense (FUAS) could inhibit cell growth and formation AML-CFU. Cells became partially differentiated on day 5, being more marked in FUAS-treated cells than in STAS-treated ones. Down regulated PML-RAR alpha mRNA expression occurred at 24 h was in STAS and FUAS-treated cells and maintained for up to 72 h. Immuno-fluorescence analysis with anti-PML monoclonal antibody showed a remarkable decrease to almost complete disappearance of microgranules. The residual granules became enlarged to become discrete dots (< 10 per cell), similar to normal POD structure in some STAS-treated cells at 24 h. AT 72 h, nearly all the granules disappeared. Similar changes were observed in FUAS-treated cells.

CONCLUSION

Both PML and PML-RAR alpha antisense oligonucleotides can specifically block the expression of PML-RAR alpha at mRNA and protein levels. PML protein is implicated in the regulation of cell differentiation.

[Molecular proof of wheat transformed by total DNA of Leymus racemosus]

Four repetitive DNA sequences (pHv7161, pHv7179, pHv7191 and pHv7293) cloned from barley (Hordeum vulgare) genome were used for a molecular hybridization in the genome of Leymus racemosus (donor), Spring wheat 761 (receptor) and the wheat transformed by total DNA of Leymus racemosus (donor) through pollen tube pathway. Our results indicate that some bands are common in Leymus racemosus and the transformed wheat but absent in Spring wheat 761. The HindIII fragments which are common in Leymus racemosus and the transformed wheat have been cloned. The clone of Leymus racemosus was nominated as pLR980. pLR980 contains the homologous sequences to the four repetitive sequences of barley. The pLR980 cloned from Leymus racemosus was used as probe to study Leymus racemosus, Spring wheat 761 and the transformed wheat. This study demonstrate that pLR980 is homologous in both genome of Leymus racemosus and wheat. Common bands absent in the Spring wheat 761 were also showed in Leymus racemosus and the transformed wheat. pLR980 was proved to be associated with the transform of wheat by total DNA of Leymus racemosus through pollen tube pathway. This provides a direct witness to the exogenous DNA introduction.

[Design and synthesis of anti-PML-RAR alpha antisense and its effects on the growth and apoptosis of NB4 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS) targeting the fusion point region (FUAS) and the start codon region (STAS) of the long type PML-RAR alpha mRNA and investigate its stability, specificity and effects on the growth and apoptosis of NB4 cells.

METHODS

NB4 cell apoptosis was assayed by flow cytometry, cell-fluorescence and DNA gel electrophoresis. Trypan blue exclusion was used for cell counts, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for oligodeoxynucleotides.

RESULTS

The synthesized 18 bp phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides was stable, resistant to nuclease, and no unspecific effects. Both STAS and FUAS could inhibit the NB4 cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Low concentration (20 micrograms/ml) of STAS or FUAS resulted in growth inhibition of 0%-11.3%, and the highest inhibition was found at concentration of 80 micrograms/ml (inhibition rate 50.0%-67.7%). Cell DNA content analyzed by flow cytometry showed the typical profile of apoptotic cells at 7th day, 9th day of treatment with FUAS. Percentages of apoptotic cells in FUAS-treated cells was 9.3%, 24.5%, 41.0% and 34.2% after 3, 5, 7 and 9 days of FUAS treatment, respectively.

CONCLUSION

STAS and FUAS successfully synthesized and both of them could inhibit the growth and induce the cell apoptosis of NB4 cells.

[Effects of anti-PML-RAR alpha antisense on cell morphology and expression of PML-RAR alpha mRNA and protein of NB4 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of anti-PML-RAR alpha antisense (FUAS) on cell morphology, expression of PML-RAR alpha mRNA and PML-RAR alpha/PML protein localization of NB4 cells.

METHODS

PML-RAR alpha mRNA expression was assayed by RT-PCR and PML-RAR alpha/PML protein localization by immuno-fluorescence.

RESULTS

NB4 cells were partially differentiated after 5 days of FUAS treatment and typical apoptosis was found after 7 days incubation with FUAS. The expression of PML-RAR alpha mRNA at 24 h was already down regulated in FUAS-treated cells. After 24 h, 72 h and 120 h incubation with FUAS, PML-RAR alpha mRNA showed 52.0%, 68.7% and 23.4% reductions, respectively, as compared with that of control. Immuno-fluorescence analysis with anti-PML monoclonal antibody showed disappearance of microgranules, residual granules becoming larger discrete dots at 24 h of FUAS treatment and almost disappearence of dots at 120 h.

CONCLUSION

FUAS specifically blocks the expression and translation of PML-RAR alpha gene, makes the production of PML-RAR alpha fusion protein decrease or disappear and prompts cell differentiation.

Simultaneous determination of oxalic, fumaric, maleic and succinic acids in tartaric and malic acids for pharmaceutical use by ion-suppression reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography

A reliable method for the simultaneous determination of oxalic, fumaric, maleic, and succinic acids in tartaric and malic acids for pharmaceutical use by reversed-phase ion-suppression high performance liquid chromatography is presented. HPLC was achieved on a Nova-Pak C18 column by isocratic elution using water adjusted to pH 2.10-2.15 with perchloric acid, and detection was by UV adsorption at a wavelength of 210 nm. This method was found to be superior to previous liquid chromatography as well as other classical assay, and to be an attractive choice for the analysis of these compounds.

Structural characterization of free-standing gallium arsenide coiled membranes produced by micromachining

High-resolution X-ray diffraction techniques have been employed successfully to evaluate crystalline quality and long-term stability of coiled membranes. The process of fabrication involves photolithography, implantation by 2 MeV N^{2+} ions inn-type GaAs substrates, followed by selective etching. A five-crystal X-ray diffractometer was employed in (+, −, +) setting with an Mo Kα1exploring beam for high-resolution X-ray diffractometry and topography experiments. The exploring-beam width was reduced to illuminate different segments of the coiled membrane. Diffraction curves recorded from the bulk crystal surrounding the sensor had a half width of 26 arcseconds, whereas the half widths from sensor segments were in the range ∼58 to ∼166 arcseconds. Different segments (particularly vertical ones) were identified from the observed angular separations between different diffraction peaks as well as from the shape of the diffraction peaks. It was found that different segments of the sensor were tilted with respect to one another and the tilt angles were in the range 15–212 arcseconds. High-resolution X-ray diffraction topographs recorded from (5\bar 11) and (400) diffracting planes revealed that the sides of the trough below the membrane created by etching are not vertical, but tapered. Also, there is a thin strip of crystal freely hanging over the tapered regions as a result of underetching. The surface of the cavity is uneven. The structural perfection of different membrane segments could also be ascertained from the contrast in topographs.

Close vicinity of Lhc b1 and Lhc b4 in Photosystem II--membrane fragments as verified by chemical cross-linking

The nearest neighbourhood of pigment-protein complexes within Photosystem II (PSII) membrane fragments has been studied by means of chemical cross-linking with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in conjunction with protein-chemical techniques. By means of OPA-induced cross-linking a major conjugate of about 60 kDa has been identified. This conjugate was shown to consist of two pigment-protein complexes of light-harvesting complex II (LHC II), Lhc b1 (CP27) and Lhc b4 (CP29) by means of SDS/PAGE in combination with an immunological analysis using mAbs directed against Lhc b4 and by matrix-assisted-laser-desorption-ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) and sequence analysis of peptides derived from a proteolytic digest of the conjugate. Domains of Lhc bl and Lhc b4 have been localized to a distance of not more than 5 A within LHC II. Our results are discussed in the light of recent models on the topography of the two subunits within the antenna system of Photosystem II.

[Rapid construction of recombinant baculovirus carrying hepatitis B virus surface antigen gene by using a novel baculovirus shuttle vector(Bacmid)]

In order to express the HBV surface antigen (HBV) efficiently by using the Bac-to-Bac system and to produce HBsAg for diagnosis and vaccine development of HBV, a recombinant donor plasmid pFB-BS carrying HBsAg gene was constructed. The gene was inserted into shuttle plasmid (Bacmid) in E. coli DH10Bac with the help of Tn7 transposition system. The recombinant Bacmid was examined by PCR and transfected to Sf9 cells. HBsAg was expressed under the control of polyhedrin promoter of baculovirus in insect cells and was identified by ELISA. The quantity of the expression reached to 2 micrograms/10(6) cells and most production was within cells. Our data suggested that the Bac-to-Bac system can be used successfully and rapidly in the expression of viral gene.