Definition of TCR recognition sites on Ld-tum- complexes

The P911 variant of the P815 mastocytoma was shown by Lurquin et al. (Cell 58:293, 1989) to elicit rapid tumor rejection in a syngeneic host. This rejection was mediated by Ld-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) for which targets could be sensitized by the synthetic peptide designated tum- (P91A-.12-24). In a previous study, T cell clones specific for Ld-tum- complexes displayed very restricted TCR usage and a characteristic TCR motif in the V alpha CDR3 region, predicted to interact with peptide. However, in contrast to the majority of Ld peptide ligands that are nonamers, the tum- peptide is a 13-mer and its sequence does not fit the Ld binding motif. Thus, to define shorter versions of the tum- 13-mer and residues involved in TCR recognition, nonamer derivatives were synthesized and compared in several different binding and functional assays. From these comparisons, the peptide TQNHRALDL was found to be the optimal nonamer. CTL recognition of Ala-substituted analogues of this peptide indicated that the His and Arg residues at positions 4 and 5 are important for TCR contact. We propose that these basic residues of the tum- peptide interact with the previously defined acidic residues in the CDR3 region of several TCR known to recognize Ld-tum- complexes.

Self-peptides bound to the type I diabetes associated class II MHC molecules HLA-DQ1 and HLA-DQ8

Genetic susceptibility to several autoimmune disorders is associated with the expression of certain MHC class II alleles. Insight into the etiology of such diseases awaits the identification of the class II restriction elements and the possible pathogenic peptides. Towards these aims, self-peptides bound to HLA-DQ1 and HLA-DQ8, allotypes considered to be neutral and permissive respectively towards the development of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, are reported. These naturally processed peptides were isolated from immunoaffinity purified HLA-DQ molecules expressed in cultured B lymphocytes. The chromatographic profiles of the peptide repertoires are unique, whereas the size distributions exhibit general similarity to those reported for naturally processed self-peptides bound to HLA-DR. Twenty-eight individual peptides representing 10 nested sets were identified by combined Edman microsequencing and mass spectrometry. Peptide length varied from 13 to 74 amino acids. Source proteins included MHC molecules and other integral membrane proteins, as well as secretory, cytosolic and mitochondrial proteins. Promiscuous invariant chain peptides were identified among the self-peptides bound to HLA-DQ8. No dominant amino acid markers suggestive of particular enzymatic processing events were detected. Some structural features of DQ1 and DQ8 that may relate to the bound peptides are discussed. Peptide specificity was confirmed in binding assays with purified HLA-DQ and HLA-DR protein.

In vitro modeling of spinal anesthesia. A digital video image processing technique and its application to catheter characterization

BACKGROUND

Maldistribution of intrathecal local anesthetic has recently been implicated as a contributor to neurotoxic injury. In vitro modeling can be used to understand the distribution of anesthetic agents within the subarachnoid space. We describe an in vitro modeling technique that uses digital video image processing and its application to catheter injection of local anesthetic.

METHODS

A clear plastic model of the subarachnoid space, including a simulated spinal cord and cauda equina, was filled with lactated Ringer's solution. Phthalocyanine blue dye of known concentration was injected into the model through small-bore (28-G) and large-bore (18-G) catheters. Injections were performed at a variety of controlled rates and sacral catheter positions, and the propagation of dye throughout the model was recorded on videotape, digitized by computer, and converted to a two-dimensional image of dye concentration. A subset of data was compared with results obtained from spectrophotometric analysis.

RESULTS

There was a strong correlation (r = 0.98) between data obtained with analysis by digital video image processing and those obtained spectrophotometrically. Catheter size, catheter angle, and injection rate significantly influenced the distribution and peak concentration of simulated anesthetic. No major differences in distribution or peak concentration were observed with the two types of 28-G catheters.

CONCLUSIONS

The digital video image processing technique can be used to quantify anesthetic distribution rapidly within a model of the subarachnoid space without disturbing the distribution. The current results demonstrate a strong dependence of anesthetic distribution on catheter angle, catheter size, and injection rate. Comparisons between 28-G catheters suggest that the difference in reported incidence of cauda equina syndrome associated with different 28-G catheters cannot be explained on the basis of differences in anesthetic distribution.

Hematopoietic elements associated with adrenal glands. A study of the spectrum of change in nine cases

We report nine cases of hematopoietic elements or myelolipomatous foci that were found in association with normal and neoplastic adrenal glands. A spectrum of change occurred that ranged from small clusters of purely erythroid or myeloid cells to microscopic myelolipomas that contained a mixture of hematopoietic elements. Recognition of the myeloid elements was facilitated with the use of the chloroacetate esterase (Leder) stain and a CD15 (myelomonocytic antigen) immunohistochemical stain. The majority (six of nine) of these cases were found in association with cortical adenomas in middle-aged women, but myelolipomatous foci were also found in association with an adrenocortical carcinoma, a pheochromocytoma, and a renal angiomyolipoma. The histogenesis of the foci remained speculative. However, the association with hormonally active neoplasms suggested that the hormonal microenvironment may have played a role in the development of the myelolipomatous foci.

Oncogene amplification screening by labeled primer multiplex polymerase chain reaction

This paper describes an improved procedure for rapid detection of amplified genes in fresh or formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. Utilizing a multiplex differential polymerase chain reaction with radioactively labeled primers and electrophoresis of the products through thin gels, it is possible to screen for oncogene amplification more rapidly and reproducibly than has been previously demonstrated. This procedure takes advantage of thin vertical gels with external cooling, which allows sharp band resolution. Four separate gels can be electrophoresed at the same time in a single gel box. Because each gel slab contains 10 or more lanes, 40 or more samples can be assayed for gene amplification simultaneously. The entire procedure can be carried out from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue to finish in 8 h when combined with a sonication technique for DNA extraction.

Familial occurrence of subependymoma. Report of two cases

Subependymomas are unusual tumors believed to arise from the bipotential subependymal cell. Previous reports of familial occurrence of subependymoma have involved monozygous twins and siblings. The authors describe the first reported occurrence of fourth ventricular subependymoma in a father and son, suggesting the possibility of direct inheritance.

DNA ploidy and P-glycoprotein expression as predictive factors of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for invasive bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

To identify a factor or factors that could predict response of muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder to neoadjuvant cisplatin, methotrexate, and vinblastine chemotherapy.

METHODS

DNA ploidy analysis and immunohistochemical staining for p-glycoprotein (the product of the multidrug resistance gene, MDR-1) were performed on bladder biopsies obtained prior to chemotherapy. Radical cystectomy specimens were utilized for complete pathologic staging.

RESULTS

Tissue was available for DNA ploidy analysis in 25 patients. Ten patients had complete responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 15 patients did not respond. Nineteen patients had aneuploid tumors, of which 7 (37%) were complete responders. Six patients had diploid tumors, of which 3 (50%) were complete responders. This difference was not statistically significant. Tissue was available for immunostaining in 15 patients. Seven of 9 patients (78%) who did not respond to chemotherapy stained positively for p-glycoprotein, whereas 5 of 6 patients (83%) who had complete responses stained positively. This difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither DNA ploidy nor p-glycoprotein expression appears to predict successfully those patients likely to respond to neoadjuvant cisplatin, methotrexate, and vinblastine chemotherapy in the treatment of invasive bladder cancer.

Crypt cell thymidine incorporation in ileal urinary pouch. Preliminary report

This is a brief communication about mucosal change in ileal urinary reservoirs, the earliest reported observations to date. Previous authors described early villous atrophy and crypt elongation, late panmucosal atrophy and metaplasia. Crypt cell proliferation should be a forerunner of these events and therefore warrants quantitative measurement. We studied continent pouches in dogs on postoperative days 42 and 43 using in vivo tritiated thymidine incorporation into crypt cell DNA, a novel application of autoradiography for urinary reservoirs. Adjacent normal ileum provided the internal control. Increased crypt cell thymidine incorporation was confirmed at this early time.

Use of thiazole orange homodimer as an alternative to ethidium bromide for DNA detection in agarose gels

Detection of polymerase chain reaction-amplified DNA fragments is commonly accomplished by visualizing the products in electrophoretic agarose beds with the use of ethidium bromide under ultraviolet light. However, ethidium bromide is mutagenic, and special handling and disposal precautions must be used. We report the use of a nonmutagenic dye, thiazole orange dimer (TOTO), which can be substituted for ethidium bromide. The excitation maximum for TOTO under ultraviolet light is 488 nm, and the absorption maximum is 510 nm, necessitating photographic filters different from those used for ethidium bromide for optimal results. Of particular importance in TOTO's use is the quantity used for each gel lane, since excess TOTO will cause unacceptable product mobility retardation. TOTO is only slightly more expensive than ethidium bromide. Overall, this stain provides very good visualization of polymerase chain reaction--amplified DNA bands in agarose gels. We believe the use of this safer reagent will become more widespread with increased regulation of laboratory activities.

Fine-needle detection of cytomegalovirus parotitis in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Parotid enlargement is common in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1. We present a case of cytomegalovirus infection of the parotid gland in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. This case is notable because fine-needle aspiration provided the diagnosis. We therefore present a quick and inexpensive method of detecting a potentially fatal infection that has previously been unrecognized by the medical community.

C-erbB-2 expression and codon 12 K-ras mutations both predict shortened survival for patients with pulmonary adenocarcinomas

We evaluated the prognostic significance of p185c-erbB-2 expression and ras gene mutations in all patients diagnosed with a pulmonary adenocarcinoma between 1982 and 1985 at the University of Iowa. p185c-erbB-2 expression was detected in 15 cases (34%). A ras gene mutation was found in 16 cases (36%) and all were in codon-12 of K-ras. No N-ras mutations were identified. Both p185c-erbB-2 expression and a K-ras mutation were found only in codon-12 and present in six cases (14%). By univariate analysis p185c-erbB-2 expression was associated with shortened survival (P = 0.02) while the presence of a K-ras mutation was not (P = 0.16). Multivariate analysis by the Cox proportional hazards model, controlling for patient age and tumor stage, also continued to identify p185c-erbB-2 expression as an independent unfavorable prognostic factor (P = 0.01). In this model a K-ras mutation also approached significance as a poor prognostic indicator (P = 0.06). The impact of both p185c-erbB-2 expression and a K-ras mutation on survival was additive and highly significant (P = 0.004). This additive nature suggests that together these two markers identify a high-risk population of lung adenocarcinoma patients that may benefit from aggressive therapy.

Topical effect of intravesical oxybutynin

Intravesical oxybutynin was instilled into rat bladders in graded doses by repeated catheterization to study the local bladder effects of drug concentration and incidental urinary infection. On the thirteenth day, after 5 doses, bladders were recovered for measurement and histological study. In the highest dose group, systemic absorption from the bladder caused weight loss and cachexia. However, in no group was there any clear evidence of drug-related mucosal or bladder wall change. Instead, the two high dose groups seemed somehow protected from the combined adverse effects of catheterization and infection.

Association between clinical lameness and Borrelia burgdorferi antibody in dairy cows

Results of an ELISA, indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test, and immunoblot analysis (western blotting) for antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi in a sample of 216 lactating dairy cows were compared. The microscopic microtitration agglutination test for antibody to 6 serovars of Leptospira interrogans was also performed to evaluate possible cross-reactivity between B burgdorferi and L interrogans. Using western blotting as the standard test against which the ELISA and IFA test were compared, the ELISA had greater sensitivity (50% in summer and 38% in spring) with similar specificity (83 and 82%), compared with the IFA test (sensitivity, 6 and 5%; specificity, 90 and 83%). In addition, seropositivity to B burgdorferi, using the ELISA, was not found to be associated with seropositivity to L interrogans serovars. A matched case-control study evaluating the association between clinical lameness and antibody to B burgdorferi was performed in lactating dairy cows of 17 Minnesota and Wisconsin herds. Sera from case and control cows matched by herd, parity, and stage of lactation were evaluated, using an ELISA for B burgdorferi antibody during 2 seasons. High B burgdorferi antibody values were associated with clinical lameness in dairy cows (P = 0.006 in summer and P = 0.04 in spring).

Prevalence and severity of lameness in lactating dairy cows in a sample of Minnesota and Wisconsin herds

An epidemiologic study investigating the prevalence of lameness in lactating dairy cows was performed in 17 dairy herds in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The mean herd size was 50 cows. Cows from 14 herds were housed in stanchions or tie stalls, and cows from 3 herds in free stalls or dry lot. During visits to each farm in the summer and subsequent spring, 2 investigators simultaneously but independently evaluated the ambulation of lactating cows by use of a standardized scoring system. The lameness scoring system was reliable at the 2 visits, with 92.7 and 91.3% agreement between the 2 observers and kappa coefficients of 0.60. The prevalence of lameness detected by the investigators ("clinical" lameness) was 13.7% (117/853) in summer and 16.7% (134/801) in spring in lactating dairy cows. These prevalences were 2.5 times higher than those estimated by the herd managers. Parity was significantly (P < or = 0.03) associated with lameness, with higher prevalence of clinical lameness found in cows of higher parity.

Procoagulant activities expressed by peripheral blood mononuclear cells

These combined data support the concept that the procoagulant response elicited by mononuclear cells, particularly monocytes, is accomplished through regulated binding site-mediated (or perhaps "receptor"-mediated) assembly of proteolytic activities at their membrane surface. Because the work of several laboratories indicate that the monocytes provide the appropriate membrane surface for the assembly and function of all the coagulation complexes required for thrombin production in vivo, monocytes may provide a unique opportunity to investigate how coagulant reactions are regulated on cell surfaces through both receptor-mediated events as well as by channeling a product of one reaction to serve as a mediator of a second reaction.

H-ras-1 gene mutations in basal cell carcinoma: automated direct sequencing of clinical specimens

Ras oncogenes are activated by point mutations occurring in codons 12, 13 or 61 and almost any base pair mutation occurring within the first two positions of any of these codons results in activation of the gene. Although ras point mutations have been reported to occur in several skin neoplasms including squamous carcinoma, keratoacanthoma and melanoma, their frequency of occurrence in basal cell carcinoma is not known. We examined basal cell carcinomas from 13 patients for activating mutations in the H-ras-1 gene by automated direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction assay amplified targets. We amplified sequences in exon 1 that flanked codons 12 and 13 and amplified sequences in exon 2 that flanked codon 61. The PCR products were centrifuged and directly sequenced using antisense primers in an automated sequencer using fluorescent dideoxyterminators. One tumor was found to show an activating G to A transversion in codon 13 which code for aspartic acid instead of glycine. Although H-ras mutations may be found in some skin tumors, they are not frequent in basal cell carcinomas. From this study we believe that direct sequencing of clinical material is of value and has advantages over other techniques. Additional studies need to be undertaken to understand the true clinical significance of ras mutations in basal cell carcinomas when they occur.

Cystic acoustic schwannomas: MR characteristics

PURPOSE

To evaluate the spectrum of MR characteristics of cystic acoustic schwannoma and to investigate its incidence.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the MR findings and clinical records of 16 patients with cystic acoustic schwannomas. In addition, the MR examinations of 411 consecutive patients referred for clinical suspicion of acoustic schwannomas were reviewed retrospectively to assess the incidence of acoustic schwannomas with cystic lesions arising from the internal auditory canal.

RESULTS

Of the 16 acoustic schwannomas with MR evidence of intramural cysts, 11 tumors had single small cysts, and five had multiple intramural cysts of variable size. Intramural cysts in 11 of the 16 tumors exhibited higher signal intensity than that of cerebrospinal fluid; the remainder were isointense to cerebrospinal fluid on both T1- and T2-weighted images. All intramural cysts showed circumferential enhancement after contrast administration. Nine of the 16 cystic acoustic schwannomas also had MR evidence of extramural/arachnoid cysts. Six of the extramural/arachnoid cysts had epicenters away from the dural interface, and the other three cysts were broadly based against the dura. The incidence of cystic acoustic schwannomas was 11.3% and association with extramural/arachnoid cysts 7.5%.

CONCLUSION

Our series suggests that cystic changes in acoustic schwannomas and the association with extramural/arachnoid cysts are not as rare as previously reported by other diagnostic methods. The high signal intensity of intramural cysts is probably related to necrotic material, blood, or colloid-rich fluid. The difference in the MR characteristics of extramural/arachnoid cysts associated with acoustic schwannomas and those of typical arachnoid cysts not associated with neoplasia may be related to higher protein and/or colloid contents secreted by the tumor. Most extramural/arachnoid cysts had epicenters between the tumor and brain, suggesting that the most likely mechanism of formation is peritumoral adhesions. It creates a pseudo-duplication caused by the trapping of fluid between the leptomeninges and the mass, resulting in an acquired type of arachnoid cyst.

Factor Xa interacts with two sites on monocytes with different functional activities

Studies were performed to elucidate the functional significance of factor Xa interactions at the monocyte membrane in the presence and absence of factor Va, with respect to prothrombin and factor IX cleavage. Factor Xa-catalyzed prothrombin activation at the monocyte surface was absolutely dependent on the addition of factor Va, indicating that thrombin was generated solely by a membrane-bound complex of factors Va and Xa. In contrast, in the absence of added factor Va, factor Xa bound to monocytes catalyzed the cleavage of factor IX to the nonenzymatic intermediate factor IX alpha through a reaction that was dependent on both monocyte and factor Xa concentration. At limiting factor Xa concentration, added factor Va inhibited the factor Xa-catalyzed cleavage of factor IX, suggesting that a monocyte-bound complex of factors Va and Xa did not recognize factor IX as a substrate. These combined data suggest that factor Xa interacts with the monocyte through two sites which can be distinguished by their requirement for added factor Va and their expression of different functional activities. Both functional sites could be distinguished also by their differential susceptibility to inhibition by a monoclonal antibody directed against the light chain of factor Va (alpha-HFV1). At the monocyte surface, the factor Va/Xa-catalyzed activation of prothrombin was maximally inhibited with 0.25 mumol/L alpha-HFV1, whereas 1.0 mumol/L alpha-HFV1 was required to effect 50% inhibition of the factor Xa-catalyzed cleavage of factor IX. The ability of factor Va to modulate factor Xa substrate specificity was investigated further. Factor Xa bound to thrombin-activated platelets either through platelet-released factor Va or added factor Va did not cleave factor IX. Consistent with this result, a plasma concentration of factor IX had no effect on thrombin generation catalyzed by a platelet-bound complex of factors Va and Xa. In marked contrast, factor Xa bound to phospholipid vesicles either independently or in complex with factor Va catalyzed factor IX cleavage with equal efficiency. These combined data indicate that factor Va bound to cell surfaces modulates factor Xa substrate specificity, whereas no discriminatory effect is conferred by factor Va bound to phospholipid vesicles. Thus, by providing two distinct sites at its membrane surface, the monocyte modulates factor Xa binding and the functional activity expressed by the bound enzyme, depending on the availability of factor Va.

Results of radical perineal prostatectomy with adjuvant brachytherapy

Retrospective analysis of outcome in 137 patients who underwent radical perineal prostatectomy and bilateral injection of gold-198 implants into the periprostatic tissues and/or neurovascular pedicles as treatment for prostatic adenocarcinoma was performed. Patients had undergone treatment between 1975 and 1985. Local recurrence developed in 22 patients (16.1%) and distant metastases developed in 33 (24.1%). Clinical and surgical staging of disease and Gleason grading of pathologic specimens were performed retrospectively. Kaplan-Meier local recurrence, freedom from relapse (FFR), and survival rates decreased with increasing stage and pathologic grade. With clinical staging, these rates were not statistically different from previous rates achieved with external beam radiation therapy, and with pathologic staging, they were not statistically different from previous rates achieved with prostatectomy. The authors conclude that (a) 5-year follow-up is inadequate to determine local control rates after prostatectomy; (b) use of implants did not improve local control, FFR, or survival rates of 10 years; and (c) method of staging probably has more effect on local control, FFR, and survival rates than does treatment modality.

Genomic alterations in sarcomas: a histologic correlative study with use of oncogene panels

Amplification and rearrangement of cellular proto-oncogenes are two of the several possible genetic alterations implicated in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Although morphologically similar tumors may be heterogeneous at the level of the genome, some tumor types have shown relatively frequent and consistent abnormalities of specific oncogenes. In order to determine the frequency of oncogene amplification and rearrangement in several types of human sarcomas and to determine if histologically similar tumors have common genetic alterations, we analyzed 26 primary sarcomas by Southern hybridization. The oncogene probes utilized were N- and H-ras, sis, EGF-R (erb-B-1), neu (erb-B-2), fos, N- and c-myc, mos, and yes. The tumors studied included: five rhabdomyosarcomas (one alveolar, four embryonal), six malignant fibrous histiocytomas, six leiomyosarcomas, four liposarcomas, two Ewing's sarcomas, one osteosarcoma, and two fibrosarcomas. Oncogene abnormalities were identified in three tumors. One rhabdomyosarcoma showed 12-fold amplification and concurrent rearrangement of sis. This particular tumor also revealed rearrangement of H-ras and 15-fold amplification of c-myc. A second rhabdomyosarcoma revealed rearrangement of neu. A liposarcoma had a sis rearrangement. These findings suggest that many sarcomas show no common structural oncogene abnormalities. The presence of differing oncogene alterations within the rhabdomyosarcoma group indicates genetic heterogeneity among histologically similar sarcomas. The finding of a sis rearrangement in both a liposarcoma and a rhabdomyosarcoma, however, may suggest common oncogenesis among different tumor types.

Multiplex polymerase chain reaction

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a widely utilized assay for specifically amplifying small fragments of DNA. Multiplex PCR is the amplification of more than one DNA fragment per reaction and has many potential uses. When more than one primer set per reaction tube is utilized, the total number of tubes in any one experiment may be reduced, conserving expensive reagents and decreasing possible contamination. Multiplex PCR allows for an assay of the gene of interest and assures that the amplification process proceeds as expected with the use of a companion control genome primer set. Multiplex PCR is useful in assaying DNA extracted from samples of immunocompromised patients in which more than one infectious agent may be suspected such as simultaneous EBV and CMV detection. Multiplex PCR offers many advantages over single reaction PCR and has been found to be an useful adjunct in our laboratory.

Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma of the pleura. Report of a case clinically simulating mesothelioma

A primary extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma of the pleura that clinically mimicked a malignant mesothelioma in a 66-year-old man with a history of asbestos exposure is described. Although exceedingly rare in this location, the characteristic histologic features, immunohistochemical reactivities, and ultrastructural features support the diagnosis of extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma. Many ferruginous (asbestos) bodies consistent with the exposure history were found in the lung tissue sections and confirmed by energy-dispersive spectrometry. This case demonstrates an unusual pleural primary neoplasm associated with asbestos.

Mechanisms of p185HER2 expression in human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines

To identify mechanisms that allow p185HER2 expression in lung cancer, we performed Western, Southern, and Northern blot analyses of 14 cell lines derived from human non-small cell lung carcinomas and one cell line derived from a human mesothelioma. Human bronchiole epithelial cells and rat type II pneumocytes were found to express p185HER2 at low to undetectable levels by Western blot technique. In contrast, 13 lung cancer cell lines expressed p185HER2, and eight of these 13 expressed p185HER2 at levels at least 2-fold higher than that found in normal bronchiole epithelial cells or type II pneumocytes. Genomic Southern analysis showed that amplification of the HER2 gene was present in only one of the eight cell lines that expressed p185HER2 at these higher levels. Increased levels of steady-state HER2 mRNA occurred in the remaining seven cell lines. We conclude that in human non-small cell lung carcinoma cell lines the most common mechanism resulting in increased p185HER2 expression is due to mechanisms that increase HER2 mRNA levels, with HER2 gene amplification occurring less commonly.

Thromboxane and prostacyclin production in ponies with colonic volvulus

Effects of 1 hour of colonic volvulus and 3 hours of reperfusion on concentrations of thromboxane (TXB2) and prostacyclin (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) in portal, pulmonary arterial, and jugular blood were determined by radioimmunoassay to assess the site of production and clearance of these eicosanoids from the circulation in 5 anesthetized ponies. Colonic volvulus had no significant effect on mean arterial pressure or TXB2 concentrations, but significantly (P less than 0.05) increased 6-keto-PGF1 alpha concentrations in all blood samples. Immediately after colonic reperfusion, all eicosanoid concentrations were significantly (P less than 0.05) increased. Then, TXB2 returned to baseline values, whereas 6-keto-PGF1 alpha concentrations remained significantly (P less than 0.05) high for the remainder of the study. Eicosanoid concentrations were significantly (P less than 0.05) greater in portal blood than in pulmonary arterial and jugular blood samples at all periods. This suggests that the splanchnic circulation is the primary site of eicosanoid production during and after colonic volvulus and the liver appears to provide most of the circulatory clearance of thromboxane and prostacyclin.

DNA extraction by sonication: a comparison of fresh, frozen, and paraffin-embedded tissues extracted for use in polymerase chain reaction assays

DNA extraction from fixed tissues can be the most laborious and complex step in amplifying DNA by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We have previously reported a rapid and efficient method for extracting DNA by the use of sonication and glass beads. We have extended our experiences with this technique using fresh, frozen, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues with and without the use of glass beads and report their results. Multiple tissue types were obtained at autopsy or as part of a surgical specimen. DNA was extracted from identical tissue when the sample was fresh, frozen, or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded. Our results indicate that in most instances the sonication technique, which takes only 30 min from start to finish, can rapidly extract fresh, frozen, or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue and is superior to other rapid extraction techniques in terms of quality and quantity of DNA. It is much more rapid than those techniques that use long digestion periods. This technique will be of great value to those investigators extracting DNA for polymerase chain reaction assays.

Endotoxin enhances the expression of monocyte prothrombinase activity

Thrombin is generated on the surface of mononuclear cells (MNCs) through the assembly and function of the prothrombinase complex consisting of the enzyme factor Xa, the cofactor/factor Va, calcium ions, and an appropriate membrane surface for proper assembly of the protein constituents. Assays performed in the presence of factors Va and Xa indicated that endotoxin significantly enhanced the prothrombinase activity (1.5- to 2.5-fold; P less than .001) expressed by MNCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Monocytes present in the MNC suspensions were responsible for this increased activity through processes resulting in both enhanced cellular activity and the enhanced release of membranous vesicles. Endotoxin was without effect on the expression of lymphocyte prothrombinase activity. Scanning electron microscopy techniques indicated that endotoxin resulted in extensive membrane blebbing of the monocytes present in the MNC suspensions with no effect on the morphology of the lymphocytes. Within 5 hours, endotoxin maximally enhanced the prothrombinase activity expressed by the monocyte membrane surface 2.8-fold, whereas 8 hours was required to maximally enhance the activity associated with the released vesicles by twofold. The observed increase in activity expressed by the monocyte membrane surface was due solely to endotoxin, since the activity expressed by the unstimulated monocyte membrane surface remained unaltered over time. In contrast, cell vesiculation, which occurred in the absence of any stimulus, was further enhanced by endotoxin. The increase in activity associated with the released vesicles from both stimulated and unstimulated cells paralleled an increase in the vesicle number as determined by flow cytometric analyses. The vesicle released from both unstimulated and stimulated monocytes were indistinguishable in size as determined by image analysis and ranged between 0.05 and 0.3 microns in diameter. 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) significantly enhanced the prothrombinase activity expressed by the monocyte membrane surface, as well as the released vesicle fraction, when used alone or in addition to endotoxin. The enhanced activity associated with the vesicle fraction again was attributed to the release of more vesicles. In contrast, cycloheximide decreased the prothrombinase activity expressed by the monocyte membrane surface, as well as the activity associated with vesicles released from both stimulated and unstimulated cells. These data suggest that the expression of monocyte prothrombinase activity can be significantly enhanced by endotoxin through processes that alter the monocyte membrane surface and augment the vesiculation process. Both processes appear to be regulated by protein synthesis and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent mechanisms.

Cytomegalovirus detection in bone marrow transplant patients with idiopathic pneumonitis. A clinicopathologic study of the clinical utility of the polymerase chain reaction on open lung biopsy specimen tissue

The morbidity and mortality rates of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, including pneumonitis in bone marrow transplant patients, are well documented and yet no rapid, sensitive diagnostic tool is available. To test the polymerase chain reaction as such a diagnostic tool, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded open lung biopsy material was selected from post-bone marrow transplant patients in whom pulmonary parenchymal changes were evident but viral inclusions were not seen. As a control, other immunosuppressed (non-bone marrow transplant) patients and low-risk nonimmunosuppressed patients were studied in a similar manner. Viral culture results and clinical data were available on all the high-risk patients. Two of 15 high-risk patients were found to have amplifiable CMV DNA despite the lack of histologic viral inclusions. One of these patients had been treated recently for CMV pneumonia, and the other had a positive culture of the lung specimens for CMV 13 days after biopsy. None of 12 control patients had amplifiable CMV DNA. These data indicate that the polymerase chain reaction is more sensitive than histologic examination and at least as sensitive as viral culture without evidence of false-positive results.

The effect of hyperbaric oxygen on growth of human squamous cell carcinoma xenografts

Hyperbaric oxygen is an important adjunct to the treatment of patients with head and neck cancer with existing or recurrent wound healing problems. Anecdotal clinical observations and a recent study of chemically induced oral cancer in hamsters have raised concern that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may accelerate tumor growth in such patients. This study evaluated the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the growth of human squamous cell carcinoma xenografts in a proved animal model. Fresh tumor specimens from three patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of varying degrees of differentiation were first subcutaneously transplanted into a nude mouse host. Growing xenografts were then transplanted into one of three mouse groups. Half of the mice in each group were given hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The transplant volume as an index of tumor growth was measured in controls and mice given hyperbaric oxygen therapy six times during the 3-week course. Xenograft growth was almost linear in all mice. No statistical difference in overall group mean growth rates was observed in mice given hyperbaric oxygen or control mice regardless of the degree of tumor differentiation. Xenograft tissue from all mice was microscopically examined for tumor mitotic indices and degree of differentiation. This study suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy has no effect on established tumor xenograft growth.

Identification of self peptides bound to purified HLA-B27

A pool of endogenous peptides bound to the human class I MHC molecule, HLA-B27, has been isolated. Microsequence analysis of the pool and of 11 HPLC-purified peptides provides information on the binding specificity of the HLA-B27 molecule. The peptides all seem to be nonamers, seven of which match to protein sequences in a database search. These self peptides derive from abundant cytosolic or nuclear proteins, such as histone, ribosomal proteins, and members of the 90K heat-shock protein family.

An efficient method for the extraction of DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue by sonication

A method was developed for fast and efficient isolation of DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections for subsequent use in PCRs and DNA hybridization assays. The method relies on the use of a sonicating water bath to disrupt tissue samples to which a small amount of micro-sized glass beads have been added. The sonicating glass beads provide fast and efficient physical shearing of fixed tissue sections, allowing for quick release and solubilization of the DNA. The extraction process from paraffin section to amplifiable target DNA takes 30 minutes. The method eliminates the need for repetitive solvent extractions and exhaustive proteinase K digestion. PCR amplification of human genomic and viral target sequences was successfully carried out on DNA isolated from a number of different types of normal and infected tissues.

Magnetic resonance imaging of pediatric head and neck cystic hygromas

We retrospectively reviewed the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of eight pathologically proved cystic hygromas in seven pediatric patients. All lesions showed multiple cysts, best depicted on T2-weighted images (T2WI). Six of the eight lesions had well-defined borders. Fluid-fluid levels were visualized in seven of eight lesions, with very high signal intensity of the upper fluid on T2WI. On T1-weighted images, all lesions showed a mean signal intensity greater than that of muscle (1.6 times) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; 4.04 times) and less than that of fat (0.5 times). On T2WI, the mean signal intensity was greater than that of CSF (1.8 times), muscle (9.45 times), and fat (2.54 times). Chemical analysis of the cystic fluid from one lesion showed high lipid content and hemorrhage, consistent with the preoperative and in vitro MRI findings on the fluid from the same patient. Lesion anatomic distribution showed frequent posterior triangle involvement; however, the epicenter of 75% of the lesions was outside the posterior triangle. Only one lesion had involvement limited to the posterior triangle. There was equal distribution of right and left sides and no midline lesion. Seven lesions displaced the sternocleidomastoid muscle laterally, whereas one displaced it posteriorly, with no evidence of muscle infiltration. Only those patients with submucosal involvement (two of seven) had respiratory symptoms. Gadolinium provided no additional information with regard to diagnosis or extent of involvement. Our experience indicates that MRI is useful in the diagnosis and treatment planning of cystic hygromas.

Squamous cell carcinoma in an inverted papilloma of the buccal mucosa

Inverted papillomas of the oral cavity are rare lesions. Although in the seven oral cases previously reported the lesions were benign, approximately 10% to 15% of inverted papillomas of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses develop or are associated with squamous cell carcinoma. This report presents a case of squamous cell carcinoma arising in an inverted papilloma of the buccal mucosa. Histologically, this lesion demonstrated the morphologic features of inverted papilloma in the superficial portion, and squamous carcinoma in deeper sections. This case suggests that although rare, inverted papillomas of the oral cavity should be considered potentially malignant or capable of harboring a malignancy.

Immunohistochemical localization of TGF-B1 during morphogenetic movements of the developing mouse palate

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-B1) may play an important role in developmentally active tissues in which it is found in high concentrations. We localized TGF-B1 in the developing fetal mouse palate immunohistochemically using a polyclonal antibody. Mouse fetal palates at 12-17 days (inclusive) of gestation were examined and specific focal concentrations of TGF-B1 identified regions undergoing active morphogenesis. The association of TGF-B1 with aggregates of mesenchymal cells in the palate and chondroblasts, rhabdomyocytes, and epithelia of the craniofacial complex strongly implicates its role in proliferation and differentiation in the developing mouse palate. We believe these findings have important bearing on the normal development of the palate as well as cleft anomalies.

Insular carcinoma: a distinct thyroid carcinoma with associated iodine-131 localization

Insular carcinoma, once considered a poorly-differentiated thyroid cancer, has been reclassified as a distinct thyroid neoplasm. Since this neoplasm is composed of follicular epithelial cells, it may concentrate radioiodide (131I) making postoperative 131I imaging for detection of metastases and radiotherapy possible. A 20-yr review of 35 cases diagnosed as anaplastic or undifferentiated thyroid carcinoma at this medical center revealed five patients with insular carcinoma. Four patients showed postoperative 131I localization and received therapeutic doses of 131I. Three of the four showed extrathyroidal 131I localization in neoplastic lesions. In one patient, the resolution of metastatic lesions by magnetic resonance and 131I imaging suggests that 131I may have an important therapeutic role in this aggressive neoplasm.

Global analysis of lymphocyte gene expression: perturbation of H-9 cells by infection with distinct isolates of human immunodeficiency virus--an exposition by multivariate analysis of a host-parasite interface

AIDS is a progressive disease associated with steady loss of helper T cells and several other functions. As the disease evolves, cytopathogenic human immunodeficiency (HIV) variants of increasing virulence can be isolated from the host. The HIV is an unusually variable genome by virtue of a low replication fidelity. In this report we describe our effort to test the hypothesis that there is a correlation between virus variability and cytopathogenicity, and further, that there is an "impact" of the virus infection on the expression of host cellular genes. To search for such a relationship, we infected H-9 cells (human CD4+ lymphoblastoid cell line) with each of 5 isolates of HIV of distinct origin and cytopathogenicity. To measure the influence of the virus infection on the expression of host cellular genes, shortly after infection, (3 h or 13 h), cells were radiolabeled and the radioactive polypeptides separated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Radiofluorographs were prepared and analyzed to determine relative rates of biosynthesis of cellular polypeptides. To organize the large amounts of data found, cluster analysis and principal component analysis were used to expose the data in formats that allowed a model construction. The rates of biosynthesis of many cellular polypeptides were altered upon viral infection in terms of both enhancements and impairment of biosynthesis. Some of the variation in polypeptide synthesis was isolate-specific, while most alterations were of modest magnitude. There appears to be no "overall effect" associated with infection by a cytopathic variant of the virus. Polypeptides affected by the cytopathic variants were determined as targets for further investigation. The method used promotes the measurement of "ensemble" information that is characteristic of the process and it promotes the creation of models of virus action.

Morphometric studies in intraductal breast carcinoma using computerized image analysis

A morphometric study was performed using computerized image analysis on the histologic specimens of 26 patients with intraductal carcinoma of the breast and 26 normal control patients. A significant incidence of necrosis (56%) was observed in the breast ducts containing intraductal carcinoma. This was characterized by one or more areas of necrosis surrounded by a rim of viable tumor cells. The mean diameter of the ducts containing intraductal carcinoma was 349 microns compared with a mean diameter of 90 microns for the normal ducts. The mean diameter of the ducts containing necrosis was 470 microns compared with a mean diameter of 192 microns for the ducts containing a solid pattern of intraductal carcinoma. Central necrosis occurred in 94% of the ducts more than 180 microns in radius, whereas only 34% of the ducts less than 180 microns in size contained necrosis. The width of the viable neoplastic tissue was less than 180 microns in 91% of the ducts. These results are analogous to the findings of Thomlinson and Gray in human lung tumor cords and provide indirect evidence for the existence of a hypoxic compartment in intraductal carcinoma of the breast. This could be an explanation for the higher local failure rate after conservative surgery and irradiation for infiltrating cancers containing an extensive intraductal component.

Oncogene abnormalities in astrocytomas: EGF-R gene alone appears to be more frequently amplified and rearranged compared with other protooncogenes

Ten astrocytomas were tested for gene amplification or rearrangement utilizing distinct probes to nine different oncogenes by Southern hybridization. The probes spanned the four major protein-coding classes of oncogenes; growth factor proteins (csis); growth factor receptor/tyrosine kinase-related proteins [erbB1 (epidermal growth factor receptor, EGF-R), neu (HER2/neu, erbB2), mos, yes]; nuclear binding proteins (c-myc, c-fos); and guanosine 5'-triphosphate binding proteins (N-ras, H-ras). Three astrocytomas, all glioblastomas, showed amplification of EGF-R-related sequences, and two of these amplifications were rearranged. Both rearrangements appeared similar by two different restriction endonucleases. Our findings suggest that it is primarily the EGF-R protooncogene (erbB1) that is amplified or rearranged in astrocytic neoplasms. No other oncogenes were amplified or rearranged, although EGF-R and neu cross-hybridization produced a "pseudo-rearranged" pattern for neu in EGF-R-amplified cases. The similar EGF-R restriction endonuclease abnormalities seen in two patients warrant further study.

Hemangiopericytoma of the sternum

Hemangiopericytoma of the chest wall is a rare tumor. We describe a patient with malignant hemangiopericytoma of the sternum who was treated with primary surgical resection and discuss the clinical, radiographic, and histologic features of the case. Surgical resection is the primary mode of therapy. High-dose radiotherapy and chemotherapy with a doxorubicin hydrochloride-containing combination may be warranted in certain cases.

Monitoring surface conditions of a Thoroughbred racetrack

During a pilot study at a Thoroughbred racetrack, information was collected to include weather conditions and track surface properties (moisture content, composition, strength, and coefficient of friction between surface and hoof). Measured weather variables did not correlate to any pattern of horse injuries of breakdowns. Surface moisture content was variable, whereas the moisture content of the compacted cushion was constant. Track surfaces around the starting chutes were more compacted than were other areas of the track. Next to the rail, track surface was softer than the surface toward the middle of the track. The coefficient of friction between a hoof and the surface was not affected by location or surface moisture content.