Cultivation of aerobic granules in a sequential batch shaking reactor

Aerobic granular sludge is a promising biotechnology for wastewater treatment system. In this report, aerobic granular sludge was successfully cultivated in a sequential batch shaking reactor in which horizontal circular flow could be formed by shaking. In this way, granulation and aeration could be simultaneously achieved. In comparison with sequential batch airlift reactor, more homogeneous circular flow was formed in the sequential batch shaking reactor. The aerobic granules obtained in the reactor were smooth, 1.2 mm in average diameter, and had a settling velocity of 50-52 m h(-1). In addition, an increase in the hydrophobicity of the cell surface of granules indicated that granulation could be related to the change in cell hydrophobicity. Finally, microbial observation showed that rod-shape and coccoid bacteria were the dominant species in mature granules. Results of this study have important implications on the mechanism of the granulation process and further practical application.

Statistical smoothing of neuronal data

The purpose of smoothing (filtering) neuronal data is to improve the estimation of the instantaneous firing rate. In some applications, scientific interest centres on functions of the instantaneous firing rate, such as the time at which the maximal firing rate occurs or the rate of increase of firing rate over some experimentally relevant period. In others, the instantaneous firing rate is needed for probability-based calculations. In this paper we point to the very substantial gains in statistical efficiency from smoothing methods compared to using the peristimulus-time histogram (PSTH), and we also demonstrate a new method of adaptive smoothing known as Bayesian adaptive regression splines (DiMatteo 1, Genovese C R and Kass R E 2001 Biometrika 88 1055-71). We briefly review additional applications of smoothing with non-Poisson processes and in the joint PSTH for a pair of neurons.

Immunoscreening of Schistosoma japonicum egg cDNA library

AIM

To screen and identify genes encoding vaccine candidates and molecules with diagnostic potential from S. japonicum (S. j) egg cDNA library.

METHODS

S. j egg cDNA library was screened by sera from SEA-immunized rabbits. Positive clones were identified after three rounds of screening and were excised automatically in vivo with helper phage. Products of PCR were used to detect insert sizes by agarose gel electrophoresis. DNA samples were obtained by purification using mini-prep kit. Automatic sequencing was carried out and the sequence data were analysed using GCG software.

RESULTS

Twelve clones were identified as positive and the inserts were around 1.2 kb in size. Compared with DNA sequences in GenBank, eight clones were homologous to a 70 kDa S. j heatshock protein(S. j HsP70). C18 exhibited 97.8% homology with S. j23. C22 and C23 shared 82.4% and 89.5% homology with S. j calreticulin, respectively. C12 was homologous to S. mansoni(S. m.) immunophilin.

CONCLUSION

This paper first reported the results of immunoscreening S. j egg cDNA library by anti-SEA sera. Twelve positive clones were found to be related to protective immunity and/or immunodiagnosis of schistosomiasis.

[Schistosoma japonicum: protective immunity induced in mice immunized with SjGST-Sj32]

Schistosoma japonicum glutathione-s-transferase (SjGST), Schistosoma japonicum 32,000 protein (Sj32) and SjGST - Sj32 were expressed and purified to study on protective immunity against Schistosoma japonicum. The result showed that compared with the adjuvant control group, the worm burden was decreased significantly in mice immunized with recombinant SjGST - Sj32, Sj32 and Sj32 + SjGST (P < 0.05). At the same time, the liver egg per gram(EPG) was decreased in mice immunized with SjGST - Sj32, Sj32, Sj32 + SjGST and SjGST. It is concluded that Sj32 significantly induces both protective immunity and anti-fecundity immunity, but SjGST only has an anti-fecundity effect.

Recombinant paramyosin (rec-Sj-97) tested for immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy against Schistosoma japonicum in mice and water buffaloes

A primary vaccine candidate antigen against schistosomiasis is paramyosin (pmy), a myofibrillar protein found exclusively in invertebrates. Here we report the results of vaccine trials against the Asian schistosome undertaken on inbred and outbred mice and water buffaloes using a bacterially expressed and purified form of Schistosoma japonicum pmy (rec-Sj-97). Vaccination of the mice resulted in high levels of specific anti-pmy IgG antibodies when compared with adjuvant controls and significant reduction in worm burdens and in liver eggs. Furthermore, a significant reduction in liver eggs was recorded in two of the three water buffalo vaccine trials undertaken and, in all three trials, high levels of specific anti-pmy IgG antibodies were generated. There was no evidence of any toxic effects and the vaccine preparations and Quil A adjuvant were clearly well tolerated. The development of a vaccine intended for livestock animals such as bovines would be beneficial in two ways; directly by blocking transmission of schistosomiasis to humans and economically by contributing to healthier livestock. We are encouraged by the consistent efficacy in the mouse and the buffalo vaccine trials that resulted in a significant decrease in liver eggs. Indeed, predictions from mathematical models indicate that an egg reduction effect of 42-45% in buffaloes would be sufficient when combined with human treatment to control schistosomiasis japonica in the marshes and lakes along the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River, the most highly endemic areas for the disease in China.

Protection of xenogeneic cells from human complement-mediated lysis by the expression of human DAF, CD59 and MCP

CD59 and membrane cofactor protein (MCP, CD46) are widely expressed cell surface glycoproteins that protect host cells from the effect of homologous complement attack. cDNAs encoding human CD59 and MCP cloned from Chinese human embryo were separately transfected into NIH/3T3 cells resulting in the expression of human CD59 and MCP protein on the cell surface. The functional properties of expressed proteins were studied. When the transfected cells were exposed to human serum as a source of complement and naturally occurring anti-mouse antibody, they were resistant to human complement-mediated cell killing. However, the cells remained sensitive to rabbit and guinea pig complement. Human CD59 and MCP can only protect NIH/3T3 cells from human complement-mediated lysis. These results demonstrated that complement inhibitory activity of these proteins is species-selective. The cDNAs of CD59 and MCP were also separately transfected into the endothelial cells (ECs) of the pigs transgenic for the human DAF gene to investigate a putative synergistic action. The ECs expressing both DAF and MCP proteins or both DAF and CD59 proteins exhibited more protection against cytolysis by human serum compared to the cells with only DAF expressed alone.

[Cricohyoidoepiglottopexy: a report of 21 cases]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the indications, function preserving and long term results of cricohyoidoepiglottopexy (CHEP) in the treatment of laryngeal carcinoma.

METHOD

Twenty-one patients were underwent this procedure during the period from 1993 to 1999 in our department. There were 20 glottic cancers (7 T1N0M0, 10 T2N0M0, 3 T3N0M0) and 1 supraglottic type (T2N1M0) according to the 1997 UICC system. In these cases, 15 were the aged over 60 years.

RESULT

First decannulation rate was 95.24%, and majority completed in 28 days post-operation. No patient was with cannula all his life. All cases could finally take food by mouth without aspiration. Speech was also satisfactory. The overall 3-year and 5-year survival rates were 87.50% and 75.00% respectively. No patient experienced local recurrence.

CONCLUSION

This procedure is presented as a useful alternative to partial vertical laryngectomy and total laryngectomy in select cases of laryngeal carcinoma.

Mesoscopic correlation of supramolecular chirality in one-dimensional hydrogen-bonded assemblies

The ordering of 4-[trans-2-(pyrid-4-yl-vinyl)] benzoic acid, a two-dimensional chiral species, was studied by scanning tunneling microscopy at noble metal surfaces. Homochiral molecules self-assemble in supramolecular chiral hydrogen-bonded twin chains, which order in nanogratings where the supramolecular chirality is strictly correlated over the entire microm domains without intimate molecular contact. Model simulations indicate that the underlying mesoscopic chiral resolution is associated with twin chains acting as chiroselective templates for transient molecular attachment, which process mediates the gratings' evolution.

Multivariate curve resolution of wavelet and Fourier compressed spectra

The multivariate curve resolution method SIMPLe to use Interactive Self-Modeling Mixture Analysis (SIMPLISMA) was applied to Fourier and wavelet compressed ion-mobility spectra. The spectra obtained from the SIMPLISMA model were transformed back to their original representation, that is, uncompressed format. SIMPULSMA was able to model the same pure variables for the partial wavelet transform, although for the Fourier and complete wavelet transforms, satisfactory pure variables and models were not obtained. Data were acquired from two samples and two different ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) sensors. The first sample was thermally desorbed sodium gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and the second sample was a liquid mixture of dicyclohexylamine (DCHA) and diethylmethylphosphonate (DEMP). The spectra were compressed to 6.3% of their original size. SIMPLISMA was applied to the compressed data in the Fourier and wavelet domains. An alternative method of normalizing SIMPLISMA spectra was devised that removes variation in scale between SIMPLISMA results obtained from uncompressed and compressed data. SIMPLISMA was able to accurately extract the spectral features and concentration profiles directly from daublet compressed IMS data at a compression ratio of 93.7% with root-mean-square errors of reconstruction < 3%. The daublet wavelet filters were selected, because they worked well when compared to coiflet and symmlet. The effects of the daublet filter width and compression ratio were evaluated with respect to reconstruction errors of the data sets and SIMPLISMA spectra. For these experiments, the daublet 14 filter performed well for the two data sets.

[Water distribution and microclimatic effects of sprinkler irrigation on spring wheat field]

Measurements of sprinkler irrigation on spring wheat field indicated that spring wheat canopy could intercept water by 25-30%, and compared with that above canopy in first milking period, the uniformity coefficient below canopy could be increased by 7-9%. Floating and evaporation loss of sprinkler irrigation water could reach 20-25% of the total. In addition, sprinkler irrigation on spring wheat field could decrease air and soil temperature, and increase air actual vapor pressure and relative humidity, which played a definite role in restraining crop transpiration.

Atomic-beam alignment of inorganic materials for liquid-crystal displays

The technique used to align liquid crystals-rubbing the surface of a substrate on which a liquid crystal is subsequently deposited-has been perfected by the multibillion-dollar liquid-crystal display industry. However, it is widely recognized that a non-contact alignment technique would be highly desirable for future generations of large, high-resolution liquid-crystal displays. A number of alternative alignment techniques have been reported, but none of these have so far been implemented in large-scale manufacturing. Here, we report a non-contact alignment process, which uses low-energy ion beams impinging at a glancing angle on amorphous inorganic films, such as diamond-like carbon. Using this approach, we have produced both laptop and desktop displays in pilot-line manufacturing, and found that displays of higher quality and reliability could be made at a lower cost than the rubbing technique. The mechanism of alignment is explained by adopting a random network model of atomic arrangement in the inorganic films. Order is induced by exposure to an ion beam because unfavourably oriented rings of atoms are selectively destroyed. The planes of the remaining rings are predominantly parallel to the direction of the ion beam.

[Schistosoma japonicum: purification and diagnostic application of recombinant 32 kD antigen]

Separation and purification of rSj32 were carried out with SDS-PAGE and electroelution technique. The purified rSj32, AWA and SEA were used to examine sera of patients with schistosomiasis, healthy individuals and patients with other parasitic diseases by ELISA. The results showed that the molecule weight of rSj32 was 37 kD. The sensitivity and specificity of rSj32 as a coating antigen in ELISA were as good as those of AWA and SEA. It is suggested that rSj32 antigen is a potential antigen for immunodiagnosis of schistosomiasis japonica.

Permineralized Callixylon woods from the Late Devonian Cleveland Shale of Ohio, U.S.A. and that of Kettle Point, Ontario, Canada

Two permineralized woods are described in this paper, one from the Late Devonian Cleveland Shale of Ohio, USA and the other from the Late Devonian Huron Shale of Kettle Point, Ontario, Canada. Both samples of wood are satisfactorily preserved with primary and secondary xylem but without cortex and bark. Both are identified as Callixylon. They differ in specific characters from each other and from other described species. Hence two new species are designated, Callixylon beckii and Callixylon huronensis, respectively, to accommodate them in the class Progymnospermopsida (Progymnospermophyta) under the group Archaeopteridales.

Michael addition reactions between chiral Ni(II) complex of glycine and 3-(trans-enoyl)oxazolidin-2-ones. A case of electron donor-acceptor attractive interaction-controlled face diastereoselectivity

This study has demonstrated that the readily available and inexpensive 3-(trans-3'-alkyl/arylpropenoyl)oxazolidin-2-ones, featuring high electrophilicity and conformational homogeneity, are synthetically superior Michael acceptors over the conventionally used alkyl enoylates, allowing for a remarkable improvement in reactivity and, in most cases, diastereoselectivity of the addition reactions with a Ni(II) complex of the chiral Schiff base of glycine with (S)-o-[N-(N-benzylprolyl)amino]benzophenone. Kinetically controlled diastereoselectivity in the corresponding Michael addition reactions between the Ni(II) complex of glycine and the oxazolidin-2-ones was systematically studied as a function of steric, electronic, and position effects of the substituents on the starting Michael acceptor. In both aliphatic and aromatic series the simple diastereoselectivity was found to be virtually complete, affording the products via the corresponding TSs with the approach geometry like. The face diastereoselectivity of the reactions between the Ni(II) complex of glycine and the 3-(trans-3'-alkylpropenoyl)oxazolidin-2-ones was found to depend exclusively on the steric bulk of the alkyl group on the starting Michael acceptor. In contrast, the face diastereoselectivity in the reactions of aromatic oxazolidin-2-ones with the Ni(II) complex of glycine was shown to be controlled predominantly by the electronic properties of the aryl ring. In particular, the additions of the Ni(II) complex of glycine with 3-(trans-3'-arylpropenoyl)oxazolidin-2-ones, bearing electron-withdrawing substituents on the phenyl ring, afforded the (2S,3R)-configured products with synthetically useful diastereoselectivity and in quantitative chemical yields, thus allowing for an efficient access to the sterically constrained beta-aryl-substituted pyroglutamic and glutamic acids.

Prevention and treatment of hepatitis B relapse after liver transplantation

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) on hepatitis B(HB)-related diseases and the efficiency of prevention and treatment with lamivudine on recurrence of hepatitis B posttransplant in China.

METHODS

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) under veno-venous bypass was performed in 10, of whom 9 males had hepatitis B and 1 female had hepatocellular cancer (HCC) without HB pretransplant. Eight of the 9 males had fulminant hepatitis B (FHB) and they all had preoperative serious jaundice, ascites and coagulopathy. Six had encephalopathy; 1 was associated with acute renal failure, and 1 with gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Seven of the 10 patients had lamivudine to prevent reinfection with hepatitis B.

RESULTS

Of the 8 patients who have survived for 2-12 months, 7 have survived for 6-12 months. Two died, one of recurrent FHB and the other from multi-organ failure (MOF). Seven preoprative HB patients of the 8 survivors have excellent liver function through 1 has positive HBsAg 6 months after OLT. One of the 8 survivors, the female with HCC pretransplant, suffered hepatitis B 6 months after OLT and her hepatic function has been gradually improving with lamivudine therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

OLT is an effective therapy for certain cases of FHB and HCC and lamivudine may prevent recurrence of hepatitis B after OLT.

Regulation of the tinman homologues in Xenopus embryos

Vertebrate homologues of the Drosophila tinman transcription factor have been implicated in the processes of specification and differentiation of cardiac mesoderm. In Xenopus three members of this family have been isolated to date. Here we show that the XNkx2-3, Xnkx2-5, and XNkx2-10 genes are expressed in increasingly distinctive patterns in endodermal and mesodermal germ layers through early development, suggesting that their protein products (either individually or in different combinations) perform distinct functions. Using amphibian transgenesis, we find that the expression pattern of one of these genes, XNkx2-5, can be reproduced using transgenes containing only 4.3 kb of promoter sequence. Sequence analysis reveals remarkable conservation between the distalmost 300 bp of the Xenopus promoter and a portion of the AR2 element upstream of the mouse and human Nkx2-5 genes. Interestingly, only the 3' half of this evolutionarily conserved sequence element is required for correct transgene expression in frog embryos. Mutation of conserved GATA sites or a motif resembling the dpp-response element in the Drosophila tinman tinD enhancer dramatically reduces the levels of transgene expression. Finally we show that, despite its activity in Xenopus embryos, in transgenic mice the Xenopus Nkx2-5 promoter is able to drive reporter gene expression only in a limited subset of cells expressing the endogenous gene. This intriguing result suggests that despite evolutionary conservation of some cis-regulatory sequences, the regulatory controls on Nkx2-5 expression have diverged between mammals and amphibians.

Rational design of highly diastereoselective, organic base-catalyzed, room-temperature Michael addition reactions

Via the rational design of a single-preferred transition state, stabilized by electron donor-acceptor-type attractive interactions, structural and geometric requirements for the corresponding starting compounds have been determined. The Ni(II) complex of the Schiff base of glycine with o-[N-alpha-picolylamino]acetophenone, as a nucleophilic glycine equivalent, and N-(trans-enoyl)oxazolidin-2-ones, as derivatives of an alpha,beta-unsaturated carboxylic acid, were found to be the substrates of choice featuring geometric/conformational homogeneity and high reactivity. The corresponding Michael addition reactions were found to proceed at room temperature in the presence of catalytic amounts of DBU to afford quantitatively the addition products with virtually complete diastereoselectivity. Acidic decomposition of the products followed by treatment of the reaction mixture with NH4OH gave rise to the diastereomerically pure 3-substituted pyroglutamic acids.

[Simultaneous detection and differentiation of O1 classical E1 Tor, O139 and nonO1 nonO139 strains of Vibrio cholerae by using multiplex PCR]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the rapid and sensitive procedures for detection and differentiation of O1 classical(CVC), El Tor(EVC), O139 and nonO1 nonO139 strains of Vibrio cholerae.

METHODS

Four pairs of primers were designed from toxin sub-unit A(ctxA) gene, O139 special gene, Haemolytic subunit A gene and Toxin coregulated pilus subunit A gene. Multiplex PCR was established to simultaneously detect those four genes. CVC, EVC, O139 and nonO1 nonO139 strains can be detected and differentiated by the size and numbers of Multiplex PCR bands via electrophoresis. Two pairs of inside primers were designed from ctx A and O139 special gene, and a nested PCR was established.

RESULTS

60 EVC, 2 CVC, 15 O139 and 30 nonO1 nonO139 strains isolated from patients were detected with multiplex PCR and nested PCR, and the results were correct. 10 EVC and 15 O139 strains isolated from environment samples were detected, and the results meant that EVC were toxic and O139 were non-toxic. The sensitivity of multiplex PCR reached 100 cfu, and that of nested PCR reached 1-10 cfu.

CONCLUSION

This method is rapid, specific, and sensitive, and possess great value for practical application.

BMP signaling is required for heart formation in vertebrates

In these studies, we have taken advantage of a transient transgenic strategy in Xenopus embryos to demonstrate that BMP signaling is required in vivo for heart formation in vertebrates. Ectopic expression of dominant negative Type I (tALK3) or Type II (tBMPRII) BMP receptors in developing Xenopus embryos results in reduction or absence of heart formation. Additionally, blocking BMP signaling in this manner downregulates expression of XNkx2-5, a homeobox gene required for cardiac specification, prior to differentiation. Notably, however, initial expression of XNkx2-5 is not affected. Mutant phenotypes can be rescued by co-injection of mutant with wild-type receptors or co-injection of mutant receptors with XSmad1, a downstream mediator of BMP signaling. Whole-mount in situ analyses indicate that ALK3 and XSmad1 are coexpressed in cardiogenic regions. Together, our results demonstrate that BMP signaling is required for maintenance of XNkx2-5 expression and heart formation and suggest that ALK3, BMPRII, and XSmad1 may mediate this signaling.

Expression patterns of FHL/SLIM family members suggest important functional roles in skeletal muscle and cardiovascular system

LIM domain containing proteins play critical roles in animal development and cellular differentiation. Here, we describe the cloning and expression patterns of three members of the four and a half LIM domain-only protein family, FHL1, 2, and 3, from mouse. A comparison of embryonic expression patterns of these three highly-related genes indicates that they are expressed in an overlapping pattern in the developing cardiovascular system, and skeletal muscle. In adult tissues, the three genes are expressed in a predominant and overlapping manner in cardiac and skeletal muscle. Of the three genes, FHL2 appears to have the most restricted expression pattern during development, in heart, blood vessels, and skeletal muscle. Expression in heart is highest in cardiac septa and in the region adjacent to the atrio-ventricular ring, suggesting a potential role in septation or conduction system development. In the heart, FHL1expression was observed strongly in developing outflow tract, and to a lesser extent in myocardium. FHL3 displays low and ubiquitous expression during mouse development. Cardiac ventricular expression of FHL1, but not FHL2 or FHL3, was upregulated in two mouse models of cardiac hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy. Taken together, these data indicate the potential importance of this FHL family in the development and maintenance of the cardiovascular system and striated muscle, and suggest that FHL1 may play a role in the development of heart disease.

[Telomerase activity in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the activity of telomerase in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the correlation of telomerase activity with the cancer development.

METHODS

Totally 48 cases of NSCLC tissues were studied accompanied with 7 cases of normal lung tissues and 12 samples of lung tissues adjacent to the tumor. The telomerase activity was detected using Telomerase PCR ELISA kit. Statistics study included chi(2)-test and the exact probabilities. The significance level chosen was P value less than 0.05 (P < 0.05), and all tests were two-sided.

RESULTS

75% (36/48) of NSCLC tissues possessed the expression of telomerase activity and only 8.33% (1/12) of tissues adjacent to tumor and none of the normal lung tissue enabled to express telomerase activity. The statistical difference was significant (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found between different histological types of NSCLC, however, the frequency of telomerase expression differed significantly between tumors of well/mordeately differentiated and poorly differentiated; stage I and stage II/III.

CONCLUSION

Telomerase activity might be a good marker in estimating the occurrence, development and diagnosis of NSCLC.

[Boron balance in agroecosystem on brown-red soil of south Hubei Province]

Five sequential cropping systems including rape/soybean-rice, wheat/watermelon-rice, rape/corn-soybean, wheat-sesame and soybean-sesame, were selected study the boron balance in agroecosystem on brown-red soil of south Hubei Province. The results show that the main output of boron was runoff and leaching, which accounted for 48-53% and 41% of the total respectively, while the output by products accounted for 3.4-10.1%. The main inputs were from rainfall, irrigation, fertilization seeds and seedlings, and natural return.

(S)- or (R)-3-(E-enoyl)-4-phenyl-1,3-oxazolidin-2-ones: ideal Michael acceptors to afford a virtually complete control of simple and face diastereoselectivity in addition reactions with glycine derivatives

[formula: see text] Enantiomerically pure (S)- or (R)-3-(E-enoyl)-4-phenyl-1,3-oxazolidin-2-ones were found to serve as ideal Michael acceptors in addition reactions with achiral Ni(II) complexes of glycine Schiff bases. Virtually complete control of simple and face diastereoselectivity, observed in these reactions, combined with quantitative chemical yields renders this methodology synthetically superior to the previous methods.

[Schistosoma japonicum ferritin: cloning, nucleotide sequencing, expression, and purification]

Our previous work showed that immunization of mice with Schistosoma japonicum (Sj) immature eggs induced significant immunity against fecundity and embryonation of the parasite. The Sj adult cDNA library was screened by sera from rabbits against Sj immature egg antigen (RASjIEA). The genes encoding molecules which may induce immunity against fecundity/embryonation were chosen for further cloning and expression. First of all, RASjIEA was absorbed with E. coli lysate to remove cross reactive antibodies. The cDNA library was then immunoscreened using the routine method. The resulted positive plaques were rescreened till individual clones were confirmed. Phagemids were obtained using in vivo excision. The positive clones were amplified using PCR. The sizes of the genes were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. After DNA sequencing of the genes cloned, Gene bank was searched and six different genes were identified from a total of 102 positive clones. One of six identified genes, Sj ferritin (SjFer) was chosen to subclone into pGMC vector. According to DNA sequences of Sj Fer and MCS (multiple cloning site) of the vector, forward primer (Fer/GMC1) and reverse primer (Fer/GMC2) were designed and used to amplify Sj Fer by PCR. The Sj Fer cDNA and expression vector pGMC were digested with BamHI and XhoI. The digested cDNA and pGMC were ligased by T4 DNA ligase to construct a recombinant which was then used to transform E. coli strain ER2566. The fusion protein GMCSF-Sj Ferritin was expressed in insoluble form, the inclusion body. Pellets were harvested and resolved in Tris-HCl buffer containing 8M urea. GMCSF-Sj Ferritin was purified by affinity chromatography using Ni-NTA resin. The molecular weight was determined by SDS-PAGE. This study first reports the gene encoding S. japonicum ferritin as a new candidate for schistosome vaccine.

A pilot study of pain management during rehabilitation for hip and knee arthroplasty

{\it

OBJECTIVE

} To evaluate the efficacy of pain management in a clinical pathway for rehabilitation after hip and knee arthroplasty, in which scheduled medications are rapidly tapered and prn medications are continued throughout the inpatient stay. {\it

STUDY DESIGN

} A prospective cross-sectional study. {\it

SETTING

} General rehabilitation unit of a regional acute rehabilitation center. {\it

PATIENTS

} Twenty-nine patients admitted consecutively to the rehabilitation unit in three months. {\it

OUTCOME MEASURES

} Number of pills/day of prn pain medication, pain scores at admission and discharge, frequency of constipation and nausea, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) gain, and length of stay (LOS). {\it

RESULTS

} For all patients, prn pain medication use was 2.4 pills/day/patient; the mean FIM gain was 22.1; and the average LOS was 9.8 days. In comparison to the Vicodin group, patients on Darvocet N-100 had significantly fewer requests for prn pain medication each day (3.1 vs. 1.1, p < 0.01), significantly better FIM gains better (18.9 vs. 24.1, p < 0.05), and fewer side effects (nausea and constipation). {\it

CONCLUSION

} Choosing the right pain medication is imperative for achieving optimal efficiency in clinical pathways for orthopedic rehabilitation. In this pilot study, Darvocet N-100 is the preferred narcotic over codeine and its derivatives.

Traumatic sciatic nerve contusion

A case of isolated post-traumatic sciatic nerve contusion is reported, sustained after direct blunt trauma to the region of the buttock after a fall. Evaluation of this nerve injury not only included an EMG/ NCS, but also confirmatory evidence was obtained using the Minor's iodine-starch test to detect disturbances of sweat secretion. This case of sciatic nerve contusion responded to stimulator-guided local steroid injections. Cross-sectional anatomy of the sciatic nerve and various etiologies of sciatic nerve neuropathy is revisited.

Prediction of substructure and toxicity of pesticides with temperature constrained-cascade correlation network from low-resolution mass spectra

Artificial neural networks are trained to predict the toxicity or active substructures of organophosphorus pesticides and then are applied to screening GC/MS data for environmentally hazardous compounds. Every mass spectral scan in the chromatographic run is classified, and separate chromatograms are obtained for either toxicity or substructure classes. Classification of mass spectra allows the detection of chromatographic peaks from potentially hazardous compounds that may be missing from the reference database. The neural network models predict substructures and toxicity from mass spectra without first determining the complete configurational structure of the pesticides. Temperature constrained-cascade correlation networks (TCCCN) were used because they are self-configuring networks that train rapidly and robustly. The toxicity classes are defined by the World Health Organization, and the substructure classes are standard organophosphorus pesticide groupings. The TCCCN models are used to mathematically resolve peaks in the chromatograms by substructure and toxicity. Evaluations yielded classification rates of 97 and 84% for substructure and toxicity, respectively.

The design of potent and selective inhibitors of thrombin utilizing a piperazinedione template: part 1

Utilizing X-ray crystallography and molecular modeling, highly potent and selective peptidomimetic thrombin inhibitors have been designed containing a rigid piperazinedione template. The synthesis and biological activity of these compounds will be described.

The design of potent and selective inhibitors of thrombin utilizing a piperazinedione template: part 2

Potent and selective thrombin inhibitors have been prepared with a piperazinedione template and L-amino acids. Likewise, incorporation of D-amino acids led to potent inhibitors with a novel mode of binding. Herein, the structure activity relationships and structural aspects of these compounds will be described.

Endotoxin-mediated nitric oxide synthesis inhibits IL-1beta gene transcription in ANA-1 murine macrophages

On the basis of previous work demonstrating nitric oxide (NO)-mediated inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) DNA binding, we hypothesized that NO downregulates NF-kappaB-dependent interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) production in an ANA-1 macrophage model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. In the presence of LPS (100 ng/ml), levels of IL-1beta protein and mRNA were significantly upregulated with NO synthase inhibition. Using nuclear run-on analysis and transient transfection studies, IL-1beta gene transcription and IL-1beta promoter activity were also found to be increased with inhibition of NO production. Parallel transfection studies using an NF-kappaB long terminal repeat-reporter plasmid exhibited similar findings, suggesting an NO-mediated effect on NF-kappaB activity. Gel shift studies showed that LPS-associated NF-kappaB DNA binding was increased, both in the setting of NO synthase inhibition and in a reducing environment. Repletion of NO by addition of an S-nitrosothiol restored IL-1beta protein synthesis, mRNA levels, gene transcription, promoter activity, and NF-kappaB DNA binding to levels noted in the presence of LPS alone. Our studies indicate that NO may regulate LPS-associated inflammation by downregulating IL-1beta gene transcription through S-nitrosation of NF-kappaB.

Redox regulation of the rat hepatocyte iNOS promoter

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to define the redox sensitive cis-acting transcriptional mechanisms that regulate inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) promoter function in the hepatocyte.

METHODS

Clonal deletion constructs of the rat hepatocyte iNOS promoter (Genbank X95629; 1845 base pair)-reporter plasmid were transiently transfected into HepG2 cells treated with IL-1 beta and IL-1 beta + hydrogen peroxide.

RESULTS

A segment of the promoter upstream from nucleotide -1126 was associated with redox-sensitive augmentation of promoter activity. Site-directed mutagenesis of 2 antioxidant response elements (AREs) was combined with transfection analysis to demonstrate that mutation of the ARE at nt-1347 ablated oxidant stress-mediated activation of the iNOS promoter.

CONCLUSIONS

This ARE conveys the redox-sensitive response of the rat iNOS promoter. Hepatocyte iNOS expression is a novel and, as yet, poorly described antioxidant mechanism that is cytokine and redox sensitive and that plays a pleuripotent regulatory role in hepatocellular function in the face of sepsis and shock.

[Detection of 8-hydroxyguanine in the DNA of the H2O2-treated HL-60 cells by GC/FID]

This paper describes the DNA damage by hydrogen peroxide in HL-60 cells and the detection of 8-hydroxyguanine produced. The number of cells was at least about 2 x 10(7)/sample. Treatment of HL-60 cells with 0.4 mmol/L hydrogen peroxide for 24 h would result in DNA damage. The DNA samples were isolated, then qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed before hydrolysis. The results of experiments showed that 100-300 microL 98% formic acid could hydrolyze about 0.12 mg DNA samples completely in 150 degrees C for 1 h. After lyophilizing the DNA samples for 6-8 h, one DNA sample was trimethylsilylated completely with 150 microL BSTFA in 150 degrees C for 1 h. The recovery of trimethylsilylated 8-hydroxyguanine was 81.70%. The trimethylsilylated 8-hydroxyguanine was identified by GC/FID and CGC/MS-SIM parallely.

[Study on chromatographic peak identification by means of peak shape analysis]

A new method for chromatographic peak identification by means of peak shape analysis is presented in this paper. Directly measurable parameters, i.e. peak width and asymmetry factor are first utilized for peak shape analysis. It is showed from theoretical and experimental results that for a component having almost the same retention time with the standard, an overlapped peak can be obtained by injecting the mixture of analyte and standard. In comparing the peak shape of overlapped peak with the standard one, the component can be identified whether it is the same with the standard or not.

Benzenesulfonamide derivatives of 2-substituted 4H-3,1-benzoxazin-4-ones and benzthiazin-4-ones as inhibitors of complement C1r protease

A series of 2-sulfonyl-4H-3,1-benzoxazinones was prepared that inhibit C1r protease in vitro. Several compounds were found to be selective for C1r verses the related serine protease trypsin. Selected compounds demonstrated functional activity in a hemolysis assay.

Potent and selective bicyclic lactam inhibitors of thrombin: Part 3: P1' modifications

The synthesis and antithrombotic activity of a series of nonpeptide bicyclic thrombin inhibitors are described. We have explored the SAR around the P1' site. Modification of the P1' site has been found to affect potency and selectivity.

[Study on HCV genotypes in different clinical types of hepatitis C patients in Shenyang area]

OBJECTIVE

To study the distribution of HCV genotypes in different clinical types of hepatitis C in Shenyang area and its clinical significance.

METHODS

The HCV genotypes of 84 HC patients of different clinical types were detected by PCR assay with four kinds of type-specific primers.

RESULTS

In 84 patients with hepatitis C, the HCV-II and HCV-III genotypes and the II/III mixed genotype were 53.6%, 30.9% and 15.5% respectively. The distribution of HCV genotypes in different HC clinical types was not identical, P < 0.05. In acute hepatitis, in mild, moderate and severe degree of chronic hepatitis, and in liver cirrhosis, the infection rates of genotype II HCV were 55.6%, 36.2%, 75.0%, 85.7% and 88.9% respectively, but that of genotype III were 22.2%, 46.8%, 8.3%, 0% and 11.1% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Infection of geno type II HCV was predominant in Shenyang area followed by HCV-III and II/III mixed genotypes. The different genotypes of HCV were related to the severity of hepatitis C.

Interaction of Borrelia burgdorferi with peripheral blood fibrocytes, antigen-presenting cells with the potential for connective tissue targeting

BACKGROUND

Borrelia Burgdorferi has a predilection for collagenous tissue and can interact with fibronectin and cellular collagens. While the molecular mechanisms of how B. burgdorferi targets connective tissues and causes arthritis are not understood, the spirochetes can bind to a number of different cell types, including fibroblasts. A novel circulating fibroblast-like cell called the peripheral blood fibrocyte has recently been described. Fibrocytes express collagen types I and III as well as fibronectin. Besides playing a role in wound healing, fibrocytes have the potential to target to connective tissue and the functional capacity to recruit, activate, and present antigen to CD4(+) T cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rhesus monkey fibrocytes were isolated and characterized by flow cytometry. B. burgdorferi were incubated with human or monkey fibrocyte cultures in vitro and the cellular interactions analyzed by light and electron microscopy. The two strains of B. burgdorferi studied included JD1, which is highly pathogenic for monkeys, and M297, which lacks the cell surface OspA and OspB proteins.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrate that B. burgdorferi binds to both human and monkey (rhesus) fibrocytes in vitro. This process does not require OspA or OspB. In addition, the spirochetes are not phagocytosed but are taken into deep recesses of the cell membrane, a process that may protect them from the immune system.

CONCLUSIONS

This interaction between B. burgdorferi and peripheral blood fibrocytes provides a potential explanation for the targeting of spirochetes to joint connective tissue and may contribute to the inflammatory process in Lyme arthritis.

Potent and selective bicyclic lactam inhibitors of thrombin: Part 2: P1 modifications

The synthesis and antithrombotic activity of a series of nonpeptide bicyclic thrombin inhibitors is described. We have explored the SAR with modifications to the P1 site. The introduction of arginine mimetics at the P1 site led to potent and selective thrombin inhibitors.

[Study on the chemical components of Alpinia officinarum]

Four crystalline substances were isolated from rhizome of Alpinia officinarum Hance. They were identified as beta-Sitosterol (I), Galangin (II), Emodin (III) and Quercetin (IV), I and III were separated from this plant for the first time.

[Studies on hygienic standard for ozone in indoor air]

OBJECTIVE

To formulate a national hygienic standard for ozone in indoor air.

METHODS

Indoor air ozone concentrations at variety of places were detected at its peak level in the daytime. Also, animal experiments exposed to low-level ozone were conducted to study the contents of lipid peroxide in the lungs, the ultrastructure of the bronchial epithelium and the phagocyte function of peritoneal macrophage.

RESULTS

Safety of ozone concentration of 0.1 mg/m3 in indoor air and feasibility to use it as hygienic standard were tested and proved.

CONCLUSION

The national hygienic standard for ozone in indoor air is recommended at 0.1 mg/m3 based on the data and relevant criteria at home and abroad.

[Determination of anions in natural water with low pressure ion chromatography]

An application of low pressure ion chromatography to the analysis of natural water is described. Cl-, NO3- and SO4(2-) in the local tap water, lake, river and rain waters were separated and quantified. The limits of detection for Cl-, NO3- and SO4(2-) were 0.0136, 0.204, and 0.161 mg/L, respectively, and the recoveries were between 90% and 104%. The optimum condition is 1.44 mmol/L of Na2CO3 in eluent at a flow rate of 1.2 mL/min. The conductivity detector was used at 1.4 mu omega-1 and the sample volume injected was 20 microL. Similar chromatographic condition is also suitable for determination of NO2- and SO3(2-) in water samples. Furthermore, the limitations of the eluent composition used is also discussed.

Hindbrain herniation syndromes: the Chiari malformations (I and II)

Hindbrain hernias with or without hydrosyringomyelia were difficult diagnostic problems before the availability of magnetic resonance imaging. Today, the problem seems not to be in evaluating the anatomical extent of the caudal herniation of the cerebellum, but in determining which patient should be considered for operative intervention and the extent of the surgery. Chiari I patients are presenting at younger ages, occasionally with irritability as their only symptom. Should all of these children be submitted to an operation? Chiari II patients are now operated on with the first detectable symptom or evidence of a syrinx, and yet medullary dysfunction from the Chiari II malformation remains the leading cause of death in treated myelomeningoceles today. Our knowledge of the natural history of the untreated conditions and the increased safety of the operation has made surgical intervention a much more viable option for this group of patients.

An infection inhibiting urinary catheter material

Catheter associated bacteriuria is a common infection in hospitals and nursing homes. An infection inhibiting catheter material for fabricating urinary catheters is being developed. The material consists of silicone rubber elastomer compounded with chlorhexidene gluconate (CHG) matrix. The antibiotic is released in sustained fashion over at least 4 weeks. A method was established for adding CHG to silicone rubber. To protect the CHG, it is suspended in a water soluble wax that also modulates CHG release from the elastomer. It was found that CHG is randomly dispersed in the elastomer and that the primary release mechanism is by diffusion. The antibacterial activity of the material with a range of 0.1 to 5% CHG by weight was examined using in vitro zone inhibition testing. The new material demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against three pathogens tested (Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis and Staphylococcus epidermidis.). The release rate of CHG was measured in vitro using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). With 5% CHG loading, the antibiotic was released at a steady rate of approximately 8.4 mg/cm2/day for periods extending beyond 4 weeks. This new material for urinary catheters has the potential to provide protection against infection and surface colonization.

[Role of pulmonary arterial angiotensin converting enzyme in development of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of local pulmonary arterial renin-angiotensin system on hypoxic pulmonary hypertension(PAH).

METHOD

Normobaric hypoxic PAH animal model was adopted. Systolic pulmonary arterial pressure(PAPs), pulmonary arterial angiotensin converting enzyme(ACE) activity, collagen content(HP) were measured and ultrastructure of pulmonary smooth muscle cells (SMC) and was observed.

RESULTS

During hypoxia, PAPs, pulmonary ACE activity, HP increased significantly and SMC changed into secretive phenotype. Treatment with cilazapril, an ACE inhibitor, decreased ACE activity along with reversal of PAPs. HP and SMC phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary ACE participated in the modulation of changes of SMC phenotype and collagen metabolism during hypoxic PAH.

[Effects of fructus cnidii coumarins compared with nilestriol on osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats]

AIM

To compare the total coumarins from dried fruits of Cnidium monnieri (TCCM) and nilestriol (Nil) against osteoporosis.

METHODS

SD rats (40, female, 3-month-old) were randomly divided into basal control, age control, ovariectomized (Ova), Ova + TCCM 67 mg.kg-1, Ova + TCCM 200 mg.kg-1, 6 times a week, and Ova + Nil 1 mg.kg-1, i.g. once a week. After 12 wk, sections (20 microns) of proximal tibiae were examined histologically.

RESULTS

Ova reduced markedly the trabecular bone mass due to bone resorption excessed bone formation (% Tb. Ar -59%). Treatment with TCCM 67 mg.kg-1 partly suppressed bone turnover, but did not inhibit bone loss in Ova rats (% Tb.Ar -43%). Treatment with TCCM 200 mg.kg-1 and Nil 1 mg.kg-1 increased the trabecular area (% Tb. Ar +100% and +274%).

CONCLUSION

Nil was more potent than TCCM in protecting against osteoporosis in Ova rats via supression of bone turnover.

Uterine fibronectin mRNA content and localization are modulated during implantation

Fibronectin mRNA and protein content were examined during embryonic implantation in the rat uterus. Content of total fibronectin mRNA at day 6 of pregnancy increased relative to the non-pregnant uterus. In contrast, fibronectin protein content of the subepithelial stroma was relatively decreased except in the region directly surrounding the lumen, and this fibronectin immunoreactivity was sensitive to hyaluronidase treatment. These changes are likely to reflect the degradation and subsequent remodeling of the previously stable uterine extracellular matrix in preparation for embryonic implantation. A+, B-, V + fibronectin mRNAs were present in both the non-pregnant and day 6 pregnant uterus with increased content of A+ and V+ fibronectin mRNAs in the latter. A + fibronectin mRNA was distributed throughout the endometrial stroma of the non-pregnant uterus and content of the subepithelial stroma increased by day 4 of pregnancy, coincident with progesterone action on the endometrium. On day 6 of pregnancy, fibronectin mRNAs encoding the V95 and A regions were preferentially localized to the mesometrial zone of the subepithelial stroma. Accumulation of these mRNA splicing variants at the mesometrial zone was dependent upon decidualization, but the embryo was not required. Thus, there are two major changes in uterine fibronectin gene expression as a result of pregnancy: increased fibronectin mRNA content and mesometrial localization. These changes suggest a key function for fibronectin in implantation and imply the operation of a regulatory program of fibronectin gene expression which depends on hormonal sensitization and a nidatory stimulus.