Hypersensitive mAChRs are involved in the epiphora of transplanted glands

Autologous transplantation of the submandibular gland is an effective treatment for severe dry eye syndrome. However, more than 40% of patients experience epiphora 3 to 6 months after transplantation. The underlying mechanism of epiphora remains to be elucidated. To investigate the potential roles of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) in the induction of epiphora in transplanted glands, we assessed and found elevated mRNA and protein expression of M1- and M3-mAChR in transplanted glands from epiphora patients. The content of inositol 1, 4, 5-trisphosphate was also elevated. Moreover, carbachol (5 and 10 µM) induced greater increase of [Ca(2+)]i in isolated epiphora submandibular cells than in controls. Although aquaporin-5 (AQP5) content and distribution in the apical and lateral plasma of epiphora glands did not change, AQP5 content was reduced in lipid microdomains (lipid rafts and caveolae) but increased in non-lipid microdomains compared with controls. Carbachol (10 µM) increased the ratio of non-lipid microdomain to total AQP5 in the cultured control submandibular gland tissue. Taken together, these results indicated that hypersensitive mAChRs might be involved in the epiphora of transplanted submandibular glands by modulating AQP5 trafficking.

Development and characterization of novel microsatellite markers in the rock bream fish Oplegnathus fasciatus

The rock bream fish Oplegnathus fasciatus is one of the most popular aquaculture species in China. In the present study, 15 novel polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from a wild population of O. fasciatus from the Zhoushan coast of China. The number of alleles per polymorphic locus ranged from 4 to 9 in a sample of 30 individuals. Observed and expected heterozygosities per locus varied from 0.267 to 0.767 and from 0.395 to 0.859, respectively. Eleven of the 15 microsatellite loci conformed to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. No significant linkage disequilibrium between pairs of loci was detected. The present microsatellite markers could provide a useful tool for the genetic analyses of O. fasciatus.

Isolation and characterization of novel microsatellite loci in Nibea albiflora

Eleven novel microsatellite loci were isolated from a (CA)10-enriched genomic DNA library of Nibea albiflora. The characteristics of these microsatellites were determined in a sample of 48 N. albiflora individuals. The number of alleles at the 11 microsatellite loci ranged from 5 to 25, with an average of 13.5 per locus. The observed and expected heterozygosities varied from 0.583 to 0.917 and from 0.568 to 0.964, respectively. Eight of the 11 microsatellite loci conformed to the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. No significant linkage disequilibrium was found among all 11 loci. These polymorphic microsatellites will be useful for population genetic analyses of N. albiflora.

High-performance top-gated monolayer SnS2 field-effect transistors and their integrated logic circuits

Two-dimensional (2D) layered semiconductors are very promising for post-silicon ultrathin channels and flexible electronics due to the remarkable dimensional and mechanical properties. Besides molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), the first recognized 2D semiconductor, it is also important to explore the wide spectrum of layered metal chalcogenides (LMCs) and to identify possible compounds with high performance. Here we report the fabrication of high-performance top-gated field-effect transistors (FETs) and related logic gates from monolayer tin disulfide (SnS2), a non-transition metal dichalcogenide. The measured carrier mobility of our monolayer devices reaches 50 cm(2) V(-1) s(-1), much higher than that of the back-gated counterparts (~1 cm(2) V(-1) s(-1)). Based on a direct-coupled FET logic technique, advanced Boolean logic gates and operations are also implemented, with a voltage gain of 3.5 and output swing of >90% for the NOT and NOR gates, respectively. The superior electrical and integration properties make monolayer SnS2 a strong candidate for next-generation atomic electronics.

Effect of PTEN antisense oligonucleotide on oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of a phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) antisense oligonucleotide on PTEN and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) mRNA and protein, cell proliferation and apoptosis in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OCSS) cell lines.

METHODS

EC9706 and EC1 cells were transfected with PTEN antisense oligonucleotide, sense oligonucleotide or nonsense oligonucleotide. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were quantified. Immuno cyto chemistry and in situ hybridization were used to determine PTEN and mTOR protein and mRNA levels, respectively.

RESULTS

Transfection with PTEN antisense oligonucleotide dose- and time-dependently enhanced cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis in both EC9706 and EC1 cells. PTEN mRNA and protein were significantly downregulated, and mTOR protein and mRNA were significantly upregulated.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that PTEN is an important tumour suppressor gene in the development of OSCC.

Simultaneous determination of aflatoxin M1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone and α-zearalenol in milk by UHPLC-MS/MS

In this study, a sensitive and rapid method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of aflatoxin M1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone and α-zearalenol in milk by ultra high performance liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionisation triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS). The milk samples were purified using Oasis HLB cartridge. The matrix effects were evaluated by determining the signal suppression-enhancement (SSE) and corrected by external matrix-matched calibration. The limits of quantity (LOQ) of the mycotoxins were in the range of 0.003-0.015μgkg(-1). The high correlation coefficients (R(2)⩾0.996) were obtained in the range of 0.01-1.00μgkg(-1) of the mycotoxins, along with good recovery (87.0-109%), repeatability (3.4-9.9%) and intra-laboratory reproducibility (4.0-9.9%) at the concentrations of 0.025, 0.1 and 0.5μgkg(-1). The detected rates of the mycotoxins were from 16.7% to 96.7% in raw milk, liquid milk and milk powder samples collected from the dairy farms and supermarkets in Beijing. The method proposed is suitable for the simultaneous determination of aflatoxin M1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, and α-zearalenol, and could be performed for analysing the mycotoxins in milk.

Mechanistic target of rapamycin small interfering RNA and rapamycin synergistically inhibit tumour growth in a mouse xenograft model of human oesophageal carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) and rapamycin on tumour size and levels of hypoxia inducible factor 1α(HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and mTOR proteins, and mTOR mRNA, in a mouse xenograft model of human oesophageal carcinoma.

METHODS

Tumours were induced in BALB/c nude mice using the human oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line, EC1, injected subcutaneously. Animals were divided into four treatment groups (n = 5 per group) after 7 days: control (phosphate buffered saline, daily intraperitoneal [i.p.] injection); 50 μg/kg rapamycin, daily i.p. injection; 3 μg/kg mTOR siRNA, daily i.p. injection; combined mTOR siRNA and rapamycin, daily i.p. injections. Tumour volume was measured 21 days after xenograft. Levels of mTOR, VEGF and HIF-1α were assessed via immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization.

RESULTS

mTOR siRNA and/or rapamycin significantly decreased tumour volume and levels of HIF-1α, VEGF and mTOR protein, and mTOR mRNA. Combination treatment was significantly more effective than either treatment alone.

CONCLUSIONS

mTOR siRNA and/or rapamycin inhibited the growth of oesophageal carcinoma in vivo. This may represent a novel and effective treatment strategy for oesophageal carcinoma.

Observation of a charged charmoniumlike structure in e+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ at sqrt[s] = 4.26 GeV

We study the process ee+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ at a center-of-mass energy of 4.260 GeV using a 525  pb(-1) data sample collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. The Born cross section is measured to be (62.9±1.9±3.7)  pb, consistent with the production of the Y(4260). We observe a structure at around 3.9  GeV/c2 in the π(±)J/ψ mass spectrum, which we refer to as the Z(c)(3900). If interpreted as a new particle, it is unusual in that it carries an electric charge and couples to charmonium. A fit to the π(±)J/ψ invariant mass spectrum, neglecting interference, results in a mass of (3899.0±3.6±4.9)  MeV/c2 and a width of (46±10±20)  MeV. Its production ratio is measured to be R = (σ(e+ e- → π(±)Z(c)(3900)(∓) → π+ π- J/ψ)/σ(e+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ)) = (21.5±3.3±7.5)%. In all measurements the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic.

Vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphisms contribute to the risk of endometriosis: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 case-control studies

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease defined as the presence of the endometrium outside the uterine cavity. Endometriosis is a multifactorial and polygenic disease in which angiogenesis may be implicated. Angiogenesis is under the control of numerous inducers, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Many studies have reported that VEGF plays a role in the progression of the disease, but individually published studies showed inconclusive results. We investigated the association between VEGF polymorphisms and the susceptibility to endometriosis. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CBM databases were searched for all articles published up to June 25, 2012, which addressed VEGF polymorphisms and endometriosis risk. We investigated the potential association between VEGF polymorphisms and the risk of endometriosis. Fourteen studies were included with a total of 3313 endometriosis cases and 3393 healthy controls. Meta-analysis results showed that the rs699947 (A>C) and rs1570360 (G>A) polymorphisms in the VEGF gene were associated with a decreased risk of endometriosis, while rs3025039 (C>T) might increase the risk of endometriosis. However, the rs833061 (T>C) and rs2010963 (G>C) polymorphisms of the VEGF gene did not appear to have an influence on endometriosis susceptibility. Results from the meta-analysis suggest that the rs3025039 (C>T) polymorphism of the VEGF gene increases the risk of endometriosis, but the rs699947 (A>C) and rs1570360 (G>A) polymorphisms might be protective factors for endometriosis.

Observation of two new N* resonances in the decay ψ(3686)→ppπ0

Based on 106×10(6)ψ(3686) events collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII facility, a partial wave analysis of ψ(3686)→ppπ0 is performed. The branching fraction of this channel has been determined to be B(ψ(3686)→ppπ0)=(1.65±0.03±0.15)×10(-4). In this decay, 7 N* intermediate resonances are observed. Among these, two new resonances, N(2300) and N(2570) are significant, one 1/2+ resonance with a mass of 2300(-30-0)(+40+109)  MeV/c2 and width of 340(-30-58)(+30+110)  MeV/c2, and one 5/2- resonance with a mass of 2570(-10-10)(+19+34)  MeV/c2 and width of 250(-24-21)(+14+69)  MeV/c2. For the remaining 5 N* intermediate resonances [N(1440), N(1520), N(1535), N(1650) and N(1720)], the analysis yields mass and width values that are consistent with those from established resonances.

Evidence for the direct two-photon transition from ψ(3686) to J/ψ

The two-photon transition ψ(3686)→γγJ/ψ is studied in a sample of 1.06×10(8) ψ(3686) decays collected by the BESIII detector. The branching fraction is measured to be (3.1±0.6(stat)(-1.0)(+0.8)(syst))×10(-4) using J/ψ→e(+)e(-) and J/ψ→μ(+)μ(-) decays, and its upper limit is estimated to be 4.5×10(-4) at the 90% confidence level. This work represents the first measurement of a two-photon transition among charmonium states. The orientation of the ψ(3686) decay plane and the J/ψ polarization in this decay are also studied. In addition, the product branching fractions of sequential E1 transitions ψ(3686)→γχ(cJ) and χ(cJ)→γJ/ψ(J=0,1,2) are reported.

Short communication: Glutamine increases autophagy of liver cells in weaned calves

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of an increased jugular supply of l-Gln on the autophagy of weaned calves. At 35 d of age, 24 Holstein calves (initial body weight of 50±0.5 kg; 35±2 d of age) were randomly allocated to 4 treatments, with each treatment including 5 male calves and 1 female calf. Holstein calves were assigned to treatments of (1) intravenous infusion of 2d of 0.85% NaCl (control group) (2) intravenous infusion of 8 g/d of L-Gln mixed with 2d of 0.85% NaCl solution, (3) intravenous infusion of 16 g/d of L-Gln mixed with 2d of 0.85% NaCl solution, and (4) intravenous infusion of 32 g/d of L-Gln mixed with 2d of 0.85% NaCl. The infusion was administered 2h/d for 7 consecutive days starting on d 1 after weaning. Feed and water were freely available to all calves. All calves were killed on d 7 postweaning to measure the autophagy of liver cells. The level of autophagy in liver cells was improved when the Gln infusion dose increased.

Effect of parenteral administration of glutamine on autophagy of liver cell and immune responses in weaned calves

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of an increased jugular supply of L-Gln on post-weaning growth, immune responses, intestinal morphology and autophagy of weaned calves. At 35 days of age, 24 Holstein calves (initial 50 ± 1.5 kg; 35 ± 2 day of age) were randomly allocated to four treatments, and each treatment included five male and one female calves. Holstein calves were assigned to treatments of (i) i.v. infusion of 2 l of 0.85% NaCl, Control group [C]; (ii) i.v. infusion of 8 g/day of L-Gln mixed with 2 l of 0.85% NaCl solution [L]; (iii) i.v. infusion of 16 g/day of L-Gln mixed with 2 l of 0.85% NaCl solution [M]; and (iv) i.v. infusion of 32 g/day of L-Gln mixed with 2 l of 0.85% NaCl [H]; The infusion was 2 h/day for each of 14 consecutive days starting on day 1 after weaning. Feed and water were freely available to all calves. All calves were killed on the 14th day post-weaning for measurements of autophagy of liver cell and intestinal morphology. Gln has no effect on dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG). Gln infusion increased quadratically the abundance of CD4+, monocyte and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+. The urea N, Gln and Glucose in plasma increased linearly with increasing Gln loads. Gln infusion increased quadratically villus height and crypt depth of intestine. The autophagy level of liver cell was improved with the Gln infusion dose increased.

Effects of methionine hydroxy copper supplementation on lactation performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters in lactating cows

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of methionine hydroxy Cu [(HMTBA)(2)-Cu] supplementation on lactation performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters in lactating cows. Thirty lactating Holstein cows were assigned to 1 of 3 treatments in a randomized block design: (1) Cu sulfate only (S): 12 mg of Cu provided by CuSO(4) per kilogram of concentrate; (2) Cu sulfate and (HMTBA)(2)-Cu (SM): 6 mg of Cu provided by CuSO(4) and 6 mg of Cu provided by (HMTBA)(2)-Cu per kilogram of concentrate; or (3) (HMTBA)(2)-Cu only (M): 12 mg of Cu provided by (HMTBA)(2)-Cu per kilogram of concentrate. The level of dietary Cu was determined according to the NRC (2001) requirement. This experiment lasted for 120 d, with the first 20 d for adaptation and with sample and data collection beginning on d 21. The milk yield and 4% fat-corrected milk yield of cows in the SM treatment tended to increase compared with those in the S and M treatments. Cows fed SM also tended to have higher NDF and ADF apparent digestibility values than did cows fed S or M. Plasma Cu concentration significantly increased for the SM treatment compared with the S and M treatments. Cows fed S had higher plasma K concentration than did cows in the other 2 treatments. In conclusion, replacing one-half of the dietary Cu sulfate with (HMTBA)(2)-Cu increased plasma Cu concentration and tended to improve the neutral and acid detergent fiber apparent digestibility values and the lactation performance of lactating dairy cattle.

First observation of the M1 transition ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S)

Using a sample of 106×10(6) ψ(3686) events collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring, we have made the first measurement of the M1 transition between the radially excited charmonium S-wave spin-triplet and the radially excited S-wave spin-singlet states: ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S). Analyses of the processes ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S) with η(c)(2S)→K(S)(0)K(±)π(∓) and K(+)K(-)π(0) give an η(c)(2S) signal with a statistical significance of greater than 10 standard deviations under a wide range of assumptions about the signal and background properties. The data are used to obtain measurements of the η(c)(2S) mass (M(η(c)(2S))=3637.6±2.9(stat)±1.6(syst) MeV/c(2)), width (Γ(η(c)(2S))=16.9±6.4(stat)±4.8(syst) MeV), and the product branching-fraction (B(ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S))×B(η(c)(2S)→KKπ)=(1.30±0.20(stat)±0.30(syst))×10(-5)). Combining our result with a BABAR measurement of B(η(c)(2S)→KKπ), we find the branching fraction of the M1 transition to be B(ψ(3686)→γη(c)(2S))=(6.8±1.1(stat)±4.5(syst))×10(-4).

Measurements of the mass and width of the η(c) using the decay ψ(3686)→γη(c)

The mass and width of the lowest-lying S-wave spin singlet charmonium state, the η(c), are measured using a data sample of 1.06×10(8) ψ(3686) decays collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. We use a model that incorporates full interference between the signal reaction, ψ(3686)→γη(c), and a nonresonant radiative background to describe the line shape of the η(c) successfully. We measure the η(c) mass to be 2984.3±0.6±0.6 MeV/c(2) and the total width to be 32.0±1.2±1.0 MeV, where the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic.

First observation of η(1405) decays into f(0)(980)π0

The decays J/ψ → γ π+ π- π0 and J/ψ → γ π0 π0 π0 are analyzed using a sample of 225×10(6) J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector. The decay of η(1405) → f(0)(980)π0 with a large isospin violation is observed for the first time. The width of the f(0)(980) observed in the dipion mass spectra is anomalously narrower than the world average. Decay rates for three-pion decays of the η' are also measured precisely.

Spin-parity analysis of pp¯ mass threshold structure in J/ψ and ψ(3686) radiative decays

A partial wave analysis of the pp¯ mass-threshold enhancement in the reaction J/ψ→γpp¯ is used to determine its J(PC) quantum numbers to be 0(-+), its peak mass to be below threshold at M=1832(-5)(+19)(stat)(-17)(+18)(syst)±19(model) MeV/c(2), and its total width to be Γ<76 MeV/c(2) at the 90% C.L. The product of branching ratios is measured to be BR[J/ψ→γX(pp¯)]BR[X(pp¯)→pp¯]=[9.0(-1.1)(+0.4)(stat)(-5.0)(+1.5)(syst)±2.3(model)]×10(-5). A similar analysis performed on ψ(3686)→γpp¯ decays shows, for the first time, the presence of a corresponding enhancement with a production rate relative to that for J/ψ decays of R=[5.08(-0.45)(+0.71)(stat)(-3.58)(+0.67)(syst)±0.12(model)]%.

Prognostic Value of Protease-Activated Receptor 2 Expression in Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) is essential for the initiation and development of tumours, suggesting that the detection of PAR-2 expression might serve as a clinical marker in the prediction or diagnosis of clinical outcomes of malignant neoplasia. Using immunohisto chemical methods, this study investigated whether the detection of PAR-2 protein had clinical implications for patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). PAR-2 protein was present at a high level in primary OSCC sites but at a low level in normal oesophageal tissue. The level of PAR-2 protein in tumours was significantly correlated with the clinical stage and histological grade of disease. Patients with tumours highly positive for PAR-2 protein had a significantly worse prognosis than those with lower PAR-2 levels. Thus, the over-expression of PAR-2 is a characteristic feature of OSCC and suggests that the immuno histochemical detection of raised levels of PAR-2 may be a potentially useful prognostic indicator.

Small ubiquitin-like modifier-4 Met55Val polymorphism is associated with glycemic control of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Taiwan

AIM

The development of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been recognized to be associated with a combination of pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) has been recognized as one central mediator in the reaction of inflammation and proapoptotic event in beta-cells. A functional polymorphism at the codon 55 (methionine to valine; A163G) of the small ubiquitin- like modifier-4 (SUMO4) gene may result in higher NF-kappaB activity. This study investigates whether this SUMO4 Met55Val polymorphism also contributes to the development of T2DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed using genomic DNA samples from 574 Type 2 diabetic patients and 323 healthy controls. The SUMO4 Met55Val polymorphism was genotyped using allele-specific real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The frequency of the G allele (encoding Val55) was significantly higher in Type 2 diabetic patients and Type 2 diabetic patients with the GG genotype had higher hemoglobin A1c level. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed the genotype of GG and GA was an independent risk factor contributing to the development of T2DM.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that in Taiwan the SUMO4 Met 55Val polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to T2DM and Type 2 diabetic patients with GG genotype have worse glycemic control.

Small ubiquitin-like modifier-4 Met55Val polymorphism is associated with glycemic control of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Taiwan

AIM

The development of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been recognized to be associated with a combination of pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) has been recognized as one central mediator in the reaction of inflammation and proapoptotic event in beta-cells. A functional polymorphism at the codon 55 (methionine to valine; A163G) of the small ubiquitin- like modifier-4 (SUMO4) gene may result in higher NF-kappaB activity. This study investigates whether this SUMO4 Met55Val polymorphism also contributes to the development of T2DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed using genomic DNA samples from 574 Type 2 diabetic patients and 323 healthy controls. The SUMO4 Met55Val polymorphism was genotyped using allele-specific real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The frequency of the G allele (encoding Val55) was significantly higher in Type 2 diabetic patients and Type 2 diabetic patients with the GG genotype had higher hemoglobin A1c level. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed the genotype of GG and GA was an independent risk factor contributing to the development of T2DM.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that in Taiwan the SUMO4 Met 55Val polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to T2DM and Type 2 diabetic patients with GG genotype have worse glycemic control.

A phenomenological approach to the anisotropic magnetoresistance and planar Hall effect in tetragonal La(2/3)Ca(1/3)MnO3 thin films

A La(2/3)Ca(1/3)MnO(3) Hall bar with its long dimension roughly along the hard axis [110] was fabricated on a single-crystal-like tensilely strained film on SrTiO(3)(001). The anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) and planar Hall effect (PHE) have been studied at various external magnetic fields and temperatures. A phenomenological model in the high field limit is developed, and the galvanomagnetic tensor based on a tetragonal symmetry 4/mmm (D(4h)), applicable to epitaxial films on a substrate, has been obtained by expanding the tensor to the sixth order. The derived in-plane transverse resistance R(xy) shows a sin2φ(M) angular dependence, while the longitudinal R(xx) is constituted by not only a two-fold cos2φ(M) term, but also a four-fold cos4φ(M) term due to the square symmetry of the lattice. The model is in good agreement with the experimental results in high fields, while deviations are observed near the {100} easy axis with the decreasing field. Close inspection of the fitting parameters reveals the evolution of these term weights with temperature and magnetic field, which is distinct from conventional ferromagnetic metals and cannot be explained by the phenomenological model. An alternative mechanism for AMR, stemming from the magnetization-induced local orbit deformation through spin-orbit interaction, as previously proposed by O'Donnell et al, may be prevalent in manganites and other systems of complicated crystal structure.

Effects of maize grain and lucerne particle size on ruminal fermentation, digestibility and performance of cows in midlactation

This study evaluated the effects of, and interactions between, maize grain particle size (MPS) and lucerne particle size (LPS) on dry matter intake, milk production, milk composition, ruminal fermentation, microbial yield, chewing activity and nutrient digestibility in midlactation cows. Four multiparous Holstein cows with ruminal cannulas were assigned randomly to a 4 x 4 Latin square design, averaged 595 kg (SD = 52) of body weight and 121 days in milk (SD = 21) at the start of the experiment. Experimental periods were 21 days in length (14 days of treatment adaptation and 7 days of data collection). All diets were fed as total mixed ration and were formulated to meet or exceed the requirements of a 600 kg multiparous cow producing 20 kg milk/day with 4.0% fat. The ratio of concentrate to forage was 39:61 (dry matter basis). Treatments were arranged in a 2 x 2 factorial design; two levels of LPS (2.54 and 6.22 mm) were combined with concentrates based on either ground maize grain (711 mum) or cracked maize grain (1755 mum). Maize grain and LPS did not affect milk production and milk fat percentage. Milk protein percentage increased when MPS was decreased (p = 0.04). Milk urea nitrogen was lower for cows fed ground maize grain compared with cracked maize grain (118-134 mg/l, p = 0.05). Estimated microbial N supply increased 41.9 g/day for ground maize grain compared with cracked maize grain. Cows fed long lucerne (LL) hay spent more time ruminating compared with cows fed short lucerne (SL) hay ranging from 293 to 336 min/day (p < 0.001). Total time spent chewing by cows increased from 505 to 574 min/day (p = 0.002) for SL and LL respectively. Based on the results from this study, midlactation cows can be fed diets that contain ground maize grain and SL hay without leading to negative effects on ruminal pH and nutrient digestibility.

The effect of different platelet-rich plasma concentrations on proliferation and differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells in vitro

OBJECTIVES

The use of platelets and platelet products has become increasingly popular clinically as a means of accelerating endosseous wound healing. It is likely that growth factors released by activated platelets at the site of injury play a role in periodontal regeneration by regulating cellular activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biological effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Primary cultures of hPDLCs were obtained from healthy premolars. PRP was isolated by two-step centrifugation. Two main growth factors present in the thrombin-activated PRP (platelet-derived growth factor [PDGF-AB] and transforming growth factor-beta1 [TGF-beta1]) were evaluated using ELISA assay. Activated PRP or the combination of recombined human TGF-beta1 (rhTGF-beta1) and PDGF-AB (rhPDGF-AB) were added to hPDLCs in different concentrations to assess cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation.

RESULTS

PRP contained high levels of TGF-beta1 and PDGF-AB. Cell attachment, proliferation and ALP activity were enhanced by addition of PRP or rhTGF-beta1 and rhPDGF-AB combination to the cell cultures, while the stimulatory potency of PRP was much greater than the latter. These stimulatory effects presented in a dose-dependant manner, it seemed that PRP with 50~100 ng/ml TGF-beta1 was an ideal concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

PRP can enhance hPDLC adhesion, proliferation and induce the differentiation of hPDLC into mineralized tissue formation cell; thereby contribute to the main processes of periodontal tissue regeneration. For economical and biological reasons, PRP has more clinical beneficial than analogous growth factors.

Effect of oxygen content on the transport properties of LaTiO(3+β/2) thin films

The structural and transport properties of LaTiO(3+β/2) epitaxial thin films, grown at different oxygen pressures ranging from 6.6 × 10(-4) to 5 Pa, have been investigated. X-ray diffraction peaks of the films shift to lower angles with increasing oxygen pressure, indicative of a variation of the corresponding lattice spacing. All the films show T(2) dependence of resistivity over a large temperature range of ∼200 K, suggesting a band-filling-induced metallic Fermi-liquid behaviour. Upturns in resistivity have been revealed at low temperatures, which could be ascribed to the Anderson-localization effect caused by the cation vacancies. Furthermore, for the thin films grown at high oxygen pressures of 0.5 and 5 Pa, the dependence of resistivity on temperature shows a maximum at high temperatures. The maximum seems to support the argument that transition between t-orbital ordering and disordering plays an important role in dominating transport properties at high temperatures. Carrier density deduced from Hall coefficient increases with the decrease of oxygen content, and shows strong temperature dependence. From the experimental data, it can be asserted that in the LaTiO(3+β/2) thin films, besides the band filling effect, localization or disorder caused by La and Ti vacancy effects controls the unique transport properties.

Symptomatic renal tubular acidosis (RTA) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: an analysis of six cases with new association of type 4 RTA

OBJECTIVES

We have analysed the association between different parameters of renal tubular acidosis (RTA) with clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

Review of hospital database records between 1978 and 2003 revealed six SLE patients with RTA. Correlations and comparisons were done by Spearman rank correlation coefficient and the chi(2) test.

RESULTS

Four patients had hypokalaemia (type 1 RTA) and two patients had hyperkalaemia (type 4 RTA). Three patients with type 1, but no patients with type 4 RTA, had medullary nephrocalcinosis. The majority of SLE patients with distal RTA (type 1 and type 4) had nephritis with proteinuria. No seronegative SLE was noted, and all patients were negative for anticardiolipin antibodies. There was a noticeable trend of higher serum potassium levels with increased SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI; P < 0.1) and nephritic manifestation (haematuria, P < 0.1). The mean SLEDAI scores were 11.75 and 27.5 for type 1 and type 4 RTA patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

When present in patients with SLE, classic distal RTA (type 1) is the most common. In particular, we report here for the first time two cases of type 4 RTA in SLE patients with higher SLEDAI scores than patients with type 1 RTA. Medullary nephrocalcinosis or renal urolithiasis has not been found in our patients with type 4 RTA. Higher serum potassium levels seem to be associated with higher SLEDAI scores and more severe nephritic manifestations in patients with distal RTA.

Adverse effect of drug-induced emotional problems on work and daily activities. A principal component as an independent predictor of ADRs in Shanghai patients with osteoarthropathy taking nabumetone

OBJECTIVE

To discover principal components among assessed items from the WHO-SF36 survey by principal component analysis (PCA) and then to establish the relationship between the candidate principal component and the incidence of ADRs induced by nabumetone in Shanghai osteoarthropathy patients.

METHOD

A total of 145 patients were interviewed using the WHO-SF36 questionnaire for quality of life (QOL) assessment before the administration of nabumetone. The sub-items of the questionnaire were analyzed using PCA and several comprehensive variables were established. Relationships between these newly formed variables and the overall incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) caused by nabumetone were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Several principal components were identified and their linear parameters were estimated using PCA. Through univariate analysis, only 1 principal component--"adverse effect on work and daily activities as a result of emotional problems"--was found related to the incidence of ADRs. The odds ratio (OR) was 1.28 with 95% confidence intervals (CI) of 1.11 and 1.48, p = 0.0384. This result was validated using a multivariate logistic analysis performed on all the alternative candidate covariates, including family income, a history of ADRs on NSAIDs, the course of the disease, level of education, control of stress, coffee consumption and consumption of salty food. The covariate information was taken from other parts of the clinical report form (CRF) used in this research. The analysis proved that the principal component, adverse effect on work and daily activities as a result of emotional problems, was an independent factor related to the overall incidence of ADRs. The odds ratio (OR) from the logistic analysis was 1.34, with 95% confidence intervals (CI) of 1.16 and 1.55, p = 0.0309.

CONCLUSIONS

The principal component identified can be applied to overcome some limitations in the WHO-SF36 questionnaire such as high correlation between variables, information overlaps and weak representation of variables and the statistical data analysis of QOL can therefore be made more effective. The study shows that the principal component "adverse effect on work and daily activities as a result of emotional problems" is an independent predictor of the overall incidence of ADRs induced by nabumetone.

Risk factors of adverse drug reaction caused by nimesulide in Shanghai patients with osteoarthropathy

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to nimesulide in patients from Shanghai with osteoarthropathy. A retrospective epidemiological study was performed to obtain information (observational variables) on demographics, primary disease, family history of disease, quality of life, dietary habits, lifestyle, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and ADR history of NSAIDs. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to establish the relationship between these observational variables and the occurrence of ADRs caused by nimesulide. Among the 726 variables, five risk factors for ADRs to nimesulide were identified. The study showed an increased risk for ADR occurrence with increased scoring of the following four factors: (i) "Concomitant drug therapy" (odds ratio [OR]: 4.66, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.26-17.26, p < 0.05); (ii) "Compared with six months ago, how would you rate your health in general now?" (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.03-1.84, p < 0.05); (iii) "General feeling of health status" (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03-1.56, p < 0.05) and (iv) "1 expect my health to get worse" (OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.22-3.44, p < 0.01). There was a decreased risk for ADR occurrence with increased scoring of the factor "Have you ever suffered from depression that impacted on your life?" (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03-0.66, p < 0.05). The predictive model for the overall incidence rate of ADRs caused by nimesulide was then established. In conclusion, the predictive model helps to indicate the risk of ADRs to nimesulide and provides clinicians with an alternative method for decision making when prescribing this drug.

Chromatographic analysis of Fritillaria isosteroidal alkaloids, the active ingredients of Beimu, the antitussive traditional Chinese medicinal herb

Bulbus Fritillariae derived from plants of various Fritillaria species is the most commonly used antitussive traditional Chinese medicinal herb and is called Beimu. Herbs derived from similar and/or different species of Fritillaria are also used in Japan and Turkey as traditional or folk medicines. Isosteroidal alkaloids are the main bioactive ingredients in Fritillaria species. As the contents and structure types of these bioactive alkaloids vary in different Fritillaria species, quality control of these active principles in herbal Beimu is very important to ensure its safe and effective clinical use. This review describes the development of chromatographic analyses for the simultaneous qualitative and quantitative determination of the main bioactive Fritillaria isosteroidal alkaloids in herbal and biological samples. The recently developed direct HPLC-evaporative light scattering detection method is the most simple, selective and sensitive assay, and is readily used as a suitable quality control method for the analysis of the active principles of herbal Beimu.

[The development of the hospital plate washer]

The Developments of the Hospital Plate Washer and its control system are introduced in the paper, and the application of the ultrasound technotology in the plate washer is described too.

Transcriptional regulation of the p67phox gene: role of AP-1 in concert with myeloid-specific transcription factors

We have investigated the myeloid-specific transcriptional regulation of p67(phox), an essential component of phagocyte respiratory burst NADPH oxidase. Analysis was carried out on the p67(phox) 5'-flanking region from -3669 to -4 (relative to ATG), including the first exon and intron and part of the second exon. The construct extending from -985 to -4 produced the highest luciferase activity in myeloid HL-60 cells but was not active in HeLa or Jurkat cells, indicating myeloid-specific expression. Four active elements were identified: Sp1/Sp3 at -694, PU.1 at -289, AP-1 at -210, and PU.1/HAF1 at -182, the latter three being in the first intron. These cis elements bound their cognate transacting factors both in vitro and in vivo. Mutation of the Sp1, PU.1, or PU.1/HAF1 site each decreased promoter activity by 35-50%. Mutations in all three sites reduced promoter activity by 90%. However, mutation of the AP-1 site alone nearly abolished promoter activity. The AP-1 site bound Jun and Fos proteins from HL-60 cell nuclear extract. Co-expression with Jun B in AP-1-deficient cells increased promoter activity by 3-fold. These data show that full p67(phox) promoter activity requires cooperation between myeloid-specific and nonmyeloid transcription factors, with AP-1 being the most critical for function.

Low-valent chemistry of cobalt amide. Synthesis and structural characterization of cobalt(II) amido, aryloxide, and thiolate compounds

The binuclear cobalt(II) amide complex [(CoL2)2-(TMEDA)] (1) [L = N(Si(t)BuMe2)(2-C5H3N-6-Me); TMEDA = Me2NCH2CH2NMe2] has been synthesized by the reaction of anhydrous CoCl2 with 2 equiv of [Li(L)(TMEDA)]. X-ray crystallography revealed that complex 1 consists of two [CoL2] units linked by one TMEDA ligand molecule, which binds in an unusual N,N'-bridging mode. Protolysis of 1 with the bulky phenol Ar(Me)OH (Ar(Me) = 2,6-(t)Bu2-4-MeC6H2) and thiophenol ArSH (Ar = 2,4,6-(t)Bu3C6H2) gives the neutral monomeric cobalt(II) bis(aryloxide) [Co(OAr(Me))2(TMEDA)] (2) and dithiolate [Co(SAr)2(TMEDA)] (3), respectively. Complexes 1-3 have been characterized by mass spectrometry, microanalysis, magnetic moment, and melting-point measurements, in addition to X-ray crystallography.

A VSV-G pseudotyped HIV vector mediates efficient transduction of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Attempts were made to infect human vascular smooth muscle cells derived from the pulmonary artery (hPASMC) with two different human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vector systems. ADA/Luc or HXB2/Luc were generated by cotransfection of luciferase reporter gene vector, pNL4-3-Luc-E- R-, and one of two envelope expressing vectors, pSMADA (R5) or pSMHXB2 (X4). The VSV-G/Luc or VSV-G/GFP were produced by a three-plasmid expression system which consisted of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein (VSV-G) expressing vector, packaging plasmid, and one of two reporter genes (pHR'-CMV-Luc or pHR'-CMV-GFP). We used hPASMC, U87.CD4.CCR5 and U87.CD4.CXCR4 for infection. Neither ADA/Luc nor HXB2/Luc could infect hPASMC, though they could infect U87.CD4 with corresponding coreceptors. On the other hand, the transduction of both VSV-G/Luc and VSV-G/GFP to hPASMC was remarkable. At day 3, the relative proportion of positive cells of hPASMC infected with VSV-G/GFP was 15%. The above finding indicates a direct role of HIV-1 infection in pulmonary hypertension 'a rare complication of HIV-1 infection' and HIV-based vectors could introduce foreign genes into hPASMC for gene therapy of pulmonary hypertension.

Avian haemoglobins and structural basis of high affinity for oxygen: structure of bar-headed goose aquomet haemoglobin

Haemoglobin from the bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) has higher oxygen affinity than that from its lowland relatives such as greylag goose (A. anser). The crystal structure of bar-headed goose aquomet haemoglobin was determined at 2.3 A resolution and compared with the structures of the goose oxy, human, horse and other avian haemoglobins and the sequences of other avian haemoglobins. Four amino-acid residues differ between greylag goose and bar-headed goose haemoglobins, among which Alaalpha119 and Aspbeta125 in bar-headed goose haemoglobin reduces the contacts between the alpha(1) and beta(1) subunits compared with Pro and Glu, respectively, and therefore may increase the oxygen affinity by loosening the alpha(1)beta(1) interface. Compared with human oxy haemoglobin, the relative orientation of two alphabeta dimers in the bar-headed goose aquomet and oxy Hbs are rotated by about 4 degrees, indicating a unique quaternary structural difference from the typical R state. This new 'R(H)' state is probably correlated with the higher oxygen affinity of bar-headed goose haemoglobin.

[A study on steam generator in solid amine CO2 purification system]

Objective. To solve the key problems of power matching between process of CO2 steam desorption and process of steam generation, as well as water/vapor separation. Method. Solid amine desorption process was studied by thermodynamic analysis and experiments. The distribution rule of desorption energy was found out and then the power consumption of steam generator was decided. Ceramic insert was designed to separate water and vapor making use of surface tension. Finally, the steam generator was designed on system requirements. Result. Experiments proved that the steam generator can satisfy the demand of the system as well as successfully separate water and vapor, in addition, the selected power is suitable. Conclusion. The design on steam generator was right and practicable.

[Determination of imperialine and imperialine-3 beta-D-glucoside in bulbs of Fritillaria pallidiflora by HPLC-ELSD]

AIM

To establish an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography)-ELSD (evaporative light scattering detector) method for the quantification of chromophore-lacking imperialine (I) and imperialine-3 beta-D-glucoside (II) in bulbs of Fritillaria pallidiflora.

METHODS

By optimizing the chromatographic conditions of HPLC and the parameters of ELSD to test the methodology. Column: Kromasil C-18 (5 microns, 200 mm x 4.6 mm), mobile phase: acetonitrile-water-triethylamine (71:29:0.03), flow rate: 1.0 mL.min-1, drift tube temperature: 88 degrees C, gas flow-rate: 2.38 L.min-1.

RESULTS

The calibration curves were linear in the range of 60.72-161.92 micrograms.mL-1 for I and 48.72-194.88 micrograms.mL-1 for II. The precisions (RSD) of intra-day and inter-day were less than 1% for I and II. The recoveries of the amounts of 24.28, 30.35 and 36.42 micrograms for I were 97.1%, 96.6% and 96.8%, and 24.20, 30.24 and 36.29 micrograms for II were 95.8%, 96.9% and 96.0%. The minimal detectable concentrations of I and II were 2.43 and 1.53 micrograms.mL-1 respectively.

CONCLUSION

The established method is simple, rapid, accurate and sensitive, and can be utilized to determine the contents of imperialine and imperialine-3 beta-D-glucoside in crude drug Yibeimu (derived from the bulbs of Fritillaria pallidiflora).

[Evaluation on severity of esophageal varices by color Doppler parameters]

To assess the value of "left gastric vein shunt index" (LGVSI) in the esophageal varices using color Doppler sonography, 32 variceal patients who had large varices(large varices group), 20 patients who had small or medium varices (small or medium varices group), and 15 control subjects were examined with color Doppler sonography. The results showed that the LGVSI in the large varices group was significantly higher than that in the small or medium varices group and in control subjects (P < 0.01). When the best cut-off value of the LGVSI was 0.12, its sensitivity and specificity were 90.6%, 90.0% respectively. Our results suggest that the LGVSI is a useful Doppler ultrasound parameter in evaluating severity of esophageal varices.

Determination of the major isosteroidal alkaloids in bulbs of Fritillaria by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection

A new direct HPLC analytical method using evaporative light scattering detection coupled with a low-temperature adapter for the simultaneous determination of the major biologically active isosteroidal alkaloids in Bulbus Fritillariae, a commonly used antitussive traditional Chinese medicinal (TCM) herb, has been developed. The simultaneous separation of eight Fritillaria alkaloids was achieved on a reversed-phase C8 column with an isocratic mobile phase system consisting of acetonitrile-methanol-water (66.5:3.5:30, v/v) containing 0.006% triethylamine. This method provides good reproducibility and sensitivity for the quantification of six major isosteroidal alkaloids, namely peimissine, verticine, verticinone, imperialine, isoverticine and ebeiedine in different Fritillaria species with overall intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy of less than 11% and higher than 90%, respectively. The assay was successfully utilized to quantify the major biologically active alkaloids in five Fritillaria species. The results demonstrate that this method is simple, selective, and suitable for the quality control of this commonly used antitussive TCM herb, Bulbus Fritillariae. reserved.

The tripeptide glycyl-prolyl-glycine amide does not affect the early steps of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the peptide glycyl-prolyl-glycine amide (GPG-NH2) corresponding to a conserved motif in the tip of the third hypervariable region of gp120 affected the early events in the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication.

DESIGN/METHODS

Glycyl-prolyl-glycine amide was tested for its effect on HIV-1 adsorption, co-receptor usage, proviral DNA synthesis, messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesis and splicing, translation, tat/TAR transactivation, and virus protease activity.

RESULTS

Glycyl-prolyl-glycine amide did not appear to affect the early events of the virus replication. HIV-1 having glycine-leucine-glycine instead of GPG in the V3 loop and the mutants deleted of the GPG motif were still inhibited by the peptide. Glycyl-prolyl-glycine-NH2 had no discernible effect on any of the other steps in the virus replication cycle tested. The only effect observed was an increased sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide amide gel electrophoresis mobility of gp160/120 at high concentrations of GPG-NH2.

CONCLUSIONS

The tripeptide GPG-NH2 is a nontoxic compound that inhibits the replication of HIV-1 by an apparently new mode of action.

Intra- and intermolecular C-h.pi interactions in bis[benzyl 3-(fluoren-9-ylidene)dithiocarbazato-N3,S]nickel(II)

The title compound, [Ni(C(21)H(15)N(2)S(2))(2)], has a novel cis configuration with two fluorene moieties on the same side. The Ni atom is in a square-planar configuration. The molecular packing is stabilized by intramolecular stacking between the fluorene moieties and extensive C-H.pi interactions.

[Investigation of trace elements in hair of patients with prostate carcinoma, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and normal controls]

Five trace metals (Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) in the hair of healthy subjects(n = 10) and patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (n = 17) and prostatic cancer (n = 18) were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results were that zinc level in patients with prostatic carcinoma [(79.1 +/- 37.3) microgram.g-1] was significantly lower than that in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy [(129 +/- 26.7) microgram.g-1] and normal controls [(152 +/- 31.5) microgram.g-1] (All P < 0.01); Cd, Cu, Fe, and Mn levels in the hair showed no statistic difference among the three groups (P > 0.05). It is suggested that the low zinc level in the hair might provide an important clue for diagnosing prostatic carcinoma at the early stage.

[Bone dynamics of repair of mandibular defect with collagen/hydroxyapatite]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of collagen/hydroxyapatite(CHA) instead of autogenous bone transplantation on repairing the mandibular defects.

METHODS

Ten Chinese experimental minipigs were made 2 cm bone defects in diameter in the mandible. The experimental group was implanted CHA, while the control group was implanted autogenous bone. The basic parameters of bone dynamics were determined by bone metrology.

RESULTS

There was remarkable difference between the two groups in the mean distance and mineralization apposition rate of double label bands marked by tetracycline(P < 0.05), while the mean osteoid seam width and mineralization lag time had no remarkable difference(P > 0.05). It suggested that CHA had good osteogenesis. The collagen in CHA offered the condition of bone mineralization, and the mineralization peak of experimental group was present at 4 weeks earlier than that of control group (8 weeks).

CONCLUSION

CHA may be a substitute of autogenous bone transplantation in repairing the mandibular defects, and the second operation for offering the implanting bone is avoidable, therefore, CHA may be an ideal material to repair bone defects.

Critical flanking sequences of PU.1 binding sites in myeloid-specific promoters

The myeloid-specific transcription factor PU.1 is essential for expression of p47(phox), a component of the superoxide-forming phagocyte NADPH oxidase. The consensus PU.1 binding sequence (GAGGAA) is located on the non-coding strand from position -40 to -45 relative to the transcriptional start site of the p47phox promoter. A promoter construct extending to -46 was sufficient to drive tissue-specific expression of the luciferase reporter gene, but extension of the promoter from -46 to -48 resulted in a significant increase in reporter expression. Mutations of the nucleotides G at -46 and/or T at -47 reduced both reporter expression and PU.1 binding, whereas mutations at -48 had no effect. The PU.1 binding avidity of these sequences correlated closely with their capacity to dictate reporter gene transcription. In parallel studies on the functional PU.1 site in the promoter of CD18, mutations of nucleotides G and T at positions -76 and -77 (corresponding to -46 and -47, respectively, of the p47phox promoter) reduced PU.1 binding and nearly abolished the contribution of this element to promoter activity. We conclude that the immediate flanking nucleotides of the PU.1 consensus motif have significant effects on PU.1 binding avidity and activity and that this region is the dominant cis element regulating p47phox expression.

Pre-column derivatization and gas chromatographic determination of alkaloids in bulbs of Fritillaria

A method of precolumn derivatization GC with FID detection was developed for a simultaneous analysis of five major steroidal alkaloids of Fritillaria species, namely ebeiedine, ebeiedinone, verticine, verticinone and imperialine. Derivatization was carried out by trimethylsilylation of the hydroxyl-containing Fritillaria alkaloids to the corresponding trimethylsilylates with trimethylsilylimidazole. Reaction conditions were optimised and the alkaloids derivatives were characterised by on-line GC-MS. The validated GC method demonstrated a good linearity at the sampling ranges used. This analytical method is simple, convenient and reproducible. The developed assay was successfully applied to the determination of the major pharmacologically active alkaloids in three commonly used antitussive Fritillaria species: F. cirrhosa, F. thunbergii and F. pallidiflora.

[The experimental study of repairing bone defects with allogeneic bone matrix gelatin and plaster]

OBJECTIVE

To study the function of the composite of bone matrix gelatin(BMG) and plaster in the repairing process of bone defects.

METHODS

Sixteen New Zealand rabbits which were defected in corpus radii were made as implant zone of bone. Sixteen sides of radii were implanted with the composite of BMG and plaster as experimental group. Others were implanted with BMG(8 sides) and bone stored in alcohol(8 sides) as control groups. The repairing process in bone defects were observed by X-ray and histological examination.

RESULTS

There was an obvious osteogenesis in experimental group. The defects of radii were almost healed at 12th week after operation. There were osteogenesis in both control groups, but the repairing process was slower than that of the experimental group.

CONCLUSION

The composite of BMG and plaster is a good material for bone transplantation.

Nitric oxide modulates sympathetic control of left ventricular contraction in vivo in the dog

Recently, evidence has been presented that nitric oxide (NO) modulates myocardial contraction induced by beta-adrenergic stimulation in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we investigated whether inhibition of the L-arginine NO system augments the positive inotropic response of the left ventricle to direct stimulation of the sympathetic nerves in vivo in the dog. Electrical stimulation was applied to the left stellate ganglion (LSG) for 1 min at submaximal (5 V, 2.5, 5 and 10 Hz) and supramaximal intensities (10 V, 10 Hz) in twelve anesthetized and vagotomized dogs. Next, in the same dogs, N(omega)-nitro L-arginine methylester (L-NAME) was infused into the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery, and LSG stimulation repeated using the same protocol. Finally, L-arginine was infused into the LAD artery, and LSG stimulation repeated. We used the maximum of the first derivative of left ventricular pressure (LV max d P/dt) as an index of the myocardial contractility. Plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine concentrations were measured in the coronary sinus at 5 V, 2.5 Hz before and after L-NAME treatment in five of twelve dogs. L-NAME treatment significantly augmented the inotropic response of the left ventricle (percent change in the LV max dP/dt) to LSG submaximal stimulation trains from 164 +/- 13 to.212 +/- 21 (P < 0.03), from 187 +/- 15 to 234 +/- 25 (P < 0.05) and from 220 +/- 19 to 280 +/- 33% (P < 0.05), respectively. This response was reversed by L-arginine treatment. However, the inotropic response to the supramaximal stimulation train did not change after L-NAME and L-arginine treatment. L-NAME significantly increased plasma norepinephrine concentration from 0.69 +/- 0.41 to 1.00 +/- 0.52 ng/ml without changing plasma epinephrine concentration in the coronary sinus. It is concluded that the inhibition of the L-arginine NO system augmented the positive inotropic effect on the left ventricle during sympathetic nerve stimulation in normal dogs in vivo.

[Purification and bioassay of macrophage-derived neurotrophic factor]

Macrophage-derived neurotrophic factor (M phi DNF) is purified from macrophage conditioned medium by a procedure consisting of column chromatography with Sephacryl S-100-HR, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and a final step using reverse-phase HPLC. The product shows a single protein band in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel. It has a molecular weight of 60.5 kD and an isoelectric point of pI 5.1 and contains more leucine, lysine, glutamine and aspartic acids in its amino acid composition. Purified M phi DNF can promote the survival, activity, and neurite outgrowth of cultured cerebellar cortical neurons and that this effect reaches maximal levels with concentrations of the M phi DNF ranging from 500-1000 ng/ml.

Carrier identification in X-linked immunodeficiency diseases

OBJECTIVE

Carrier identification in X-linked immunodeficiency disorders can be based on the demonstration of non-random X inactivation (NRXI) in affected blood cell lineages when growth is impaired in cells expressing the abnormal gene. We examined the utility of seeking evidence of NRXI to test the carrier status of women in families affected by X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (XSCID) and X-linked hypogammaglobulinaemia (XLH), to identify as carriers the mothers of boys with SCID or hypogammaglobulinaemia whose phenotype suggested X-linkage and to infer X-linkage in boys with SCID or hypogammaglobulinaemia whose disease was not clearly X-linked on the basis either of family history or clinical and immunological characteristics.

METHODOLOGY

A polymerase chain reaction-based method was used to amplify a polymorphic CAG repeat in the first exon of the androgen receptor gene after selective digestion of the active X chromosome with a methylation-sensitive enzyme, HpaII to distinguish between the paternal and maternal alleles and to identify their methylation status.

RESULTS

Heterozygosity was found in 24 of 31 female subjects (77%). As anticipated, NRXI could be demonstrated in all lymphoid cells studied from obligate carriers of XSCID and an obligate carrier of XLH but not on a carrier of X-linked immunodeficiency with hyper-IgM. The finding of NRXI in the mother of a boy with a SCID variant showed her to be a carrier of XSCID and establishes that her son has XSCID, not otherwise evident from available data.

CONCLUSIONS

This PCR assay provides a rapid method for carrier detection of X-linked immunodeficiencies, and has allowed us to expand the phenotype of XSCID