11. SEX AND SPORT: A COMMUNITY BASED PROJECT OF CHLAMYDIA TESTING AND TREATMENT IN RURAL AND REGIONAL VICTORIA

Chlamydia is the most common notifiable infectious disease in Australia with the number of notifications increasing 92% over the past 5 years. The "Sex and Sport" Project is piloting a community based chlamydia testing and treatment program reaching young people in a specific community setting, sporting clubs. This multifaceted approach utilises health education, population screening and collection of data on risk taking behaviour as the first steps in enhancing health and shaping future service provisions. The project's primary aim is to assess the feasibility of an outreach testing and treatment program. Secondary aims are to measure the prevalence of chlamydia and assess sexual risk behaviour in this population. Strong community collaborations and integration into local health services through the Primary Care Partnerships is important in the project's sustainability; in particular key community members respected by sporting clubs needed to be identified, capacity developed to deliver effective health promotion messages and improve young people's access to sexual health services. Additionally, local knowledge has guided overall program implementation and provides opportunities for capacity building to regionally based services. For example, poor access to sexual health services is being addressed by the participants being able to access services via telephone consultation with Melbourne Sexual Health Centre. Approximately 1000 Victorians aged 16-25 years from the Loddon Mallee region of Victoria will be tested between June and September 2007. This paper will report on the feasibility, challenges and possible solutions in establishing a community based outreach testing and treatment program.

Circulating molecular markers in predicting radiation-induced lung damage

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Background: We hypothesized that circulating molecular markers such as transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) change early during the course of radiotherapy (RT), and that such changes precede RILD after completion of the therapy. Methods and Materials: Patients with stage I-III NSCLC treated with RT (11) or chemoRT (15) (enrolled onto two prospective clinical trials) were included in this study. Serum and platelet poor plasma were obtained prior to (Pre-RT), at 40–50 Gy (during-RT), and at the end of RT (end-RT). The plasma TGF-β1 and IL-6 and serum ACE levels were measured using molecule specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The endpoints for RILD were ≥ grade 2 radiation pneumonitis (RP) and measures of pulmonary function tests such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the 1st second (FEV1), and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO). The minimal follow-up duration was 3 months. Data is presented as mean ± standard deviation; student t-test was used for significant analysis. Results: Plasma TGF-β1 and IL-6 levels changed remarkably after 40–50 Gy of RT. The mean relative TGF-β1 levels (during-RT over pre-RT) were 1.9 ± 0.9 and 0.9 ± 0.6 in patients with and without RP (p = 0.010), respectively. There were no significant associations between changes of plasma IL-6 and ACE levels and the occurrence of RP. Significant DLCO reduction was observed at 3 months after RT in almost every patient, and such reduction was significantly more remarkable in those who had radiation induced elevation in plasma IL-6 levels (34.8 ± 15.9% versus 15.6 ± 14.5%, p = 0.045). Interestingly, the pre-RT ACE level was significantly associated with changes of FEV1 (p = 0.037) and FVC (p = 0.014): improvement of 13.2 ± 12.0% and 11.0 ± 9.0% versus reduction of 7.6 ± 17.0% and 10.8 ± 17.7% for patients with high versus low levels, respectively. Conclusion: Radiation induced elevation in circulating TGF-β1 and IL-6 levels may be predictive of RILD, while serum ACE level may be associated with decreased risk of RILD.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

New approaches for genotyping paraffin wax embedded breast tissue from patients with cancer: the Iowa women's health study

BACKGROUND

The use of paraffin wax embedded tissue samples as a source of DNA for genotype analysis has been limited because of difficulties in DNA extraction and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis.

AIMS

To test the feasibility of applying the combination of a commonly used DNA isolation procedure, PureGene, and a high throughput SNP analysis method, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-INVADER assay, to genotype several types of paraffin wax embedded breast tissues.

METHODS

Twenty formalin fixed, paraffin wax blocks were obtained from five participants in the Iowa women's health study. Each participant provided several types of tissue including normal lymph node, normal nipple/areola tissue, inflammatory/fibrotic breast tissue, or normal breast tissue, and tumour tissue.

RESULTS

Good quality DNA (260/280 ratio >1.6) was obtained from all tissues. Normal lymph nodes yielded the largest amount of DNA (97.1 mug). DNA obtained from the samples was tested for a germline C1183T polymorphism in the MnSOD gene by three methods-PCR-RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism), INVADER assay, and PCR-INVADER assay. Of the 20 samples, PCR-RFLP genotyped 16, the PCR-INVADER assay 18, and the INVADER assay two. This methodology was then used to analyse five additional genotypes and confirmed the general applicability of the method.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the feasibility of (1) using several paraffin wax embedded breast tissues as a source of DNA for germline genetic analysis, with lymph nodes providing the highest yield, and (2) using the combination of a common extraction method with a high throughput SNP analysis method, the PCR-INVADER assay.

Streptomyces sp. 173, an insecticidal micro-organism from marine

AIMS

To find new insecticidal antibiotics from marine micro-organisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Strains isolated from seawater and sea sediments from Beidiahe and Dagang of the east coast of China were screened for their insecticidal qualities. The screening was carried out using bioassay of brine shrimp and the insect pest Helicoverpa armigera. The fermentation, preliminary extraction and isolation of Streptomyces sp.173 were carried out.

CONCLUSIONS

In total 331 isolates were examined through bioassay of brine shrimp and 40 isolates (12.08%) showed potential insecticidal activities. Of the 40 isolates, one isolate, designated Streptomyces sp.173, was found to have strong insecticidal activity against both brine shrimp and H. armigera, similar to that of avermectin B1.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The isolated Streptomyces sp.173 has great insecticidal potency. This work indicated that marine micro-organisms could be an important source of insecticidal antibiotics and the improved anti-brine shrimp bioassay is suitable for primary screening.

Living with Marfan syndrome III. Quality of life and reproductive planning

As individuals with Marfan syndrome are increasingly diagnosed earlier in life and prior to life-threatening cardiovascular events, there is opportunity to study factors that influence their reproductive planning and quality of life. In this study of 174 affected adults, the overall quality of life was reported to be adequate, although it was significantly decreased within the spiritual/psychological domain. Approximately 62% agreed that having Marfan syndrome significantly affected their reproductive decision-making. This view was correlated with age of diagnosis, mitral valve prolapse, and the view that Marfan syndrome has adverse consequences on life. Sixty-nine percent reported personal interest in prenatal testing for Marfan syndrome. Respondents most commonly cited increased worries about personal health and the recurrence risk as ways that Marfan syndrome affects their reproductive decisions. Age, striae, back pain, and low quality of life were each independently correlated with lack of sex drive. These results affirm the importance of both clinical and psychosocial issues on affected adults' reproductive decision-making and sexual well-being. Genetic professionals are ideally positioned to discuss concerns about quality of life and reproduction with patients with Marfan syndrome and refer those with significant concerns for further evaluation and management.

Synthesis of an L-rhamnose tetrasaccharide, the common and major structure of the repeating unit of the O-antigenic polysaccharide of a strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas holci

A tetrasaccharide, alpha-L-Rhap-(1-->3)-alpha-L-Rhap-(1-->2)-alpha-L-Rhap-(1-->2)-L-Rhap, the common and major structure of the repeating unit of the O-antigenic polysaccharide of a strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas holci was synthesized as its methyl and octyl glycosides. Selective 3-O-glycosylation of allyl alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside with 2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate gave allyl 2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (3). Benzoylation, deallylation, and trichloroacetimidation afforded 2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-2,4-di-O-benzoyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate (6). Self condensation of 3,4-di-O-benzoyl-beta-L-rhamnopyranose 1,2-methyl orthoester or 1,2-octyl orthoester gave methyl or octyl 2-O-acetyl-3,4-di-O-benzoyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->2)-3,4-di-O-benzoyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (16 or 17), and subsequent selective deacetylation gave the disaccharide acceptor (18 or 19). Coupling of 6 with 18 (or 19), followed by deacylation in ammonia-saturated methanol, produced the target tetrasacharide.

Synthesis of a hexasaccharide that relates to the arabinogalactan epitope

A hexasaccharide derivative of the arabinogalactan epitope, methyl beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-[alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl-(1-->3)]-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-[alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl-(1-->3)]-alpha-D-galactopyranoside, was synthesized efficiently using a 3+3 strategy. The key step is the preparation of the trisaccharide donor, isopropyl 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-benzoyl-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-[2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl-(1-->3)]-2,4-di-O-benzoyl-1-thio-beta-D-galactopyranoside, from isopropyl 1-thio-beta-D-galactopyranoside using a one-pot synthesis of a 3,6-differentially protected building block.

Radiation therapy for epidermoid carcinoma of the anal canal, clinical and treatment factors associated with outcome

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In recent years, treatment with combined chemotherapy and radiation has become the standard of care for epidermoid carcinoma of the anus. However, optimal radiotherapy techniques and doses are not well established.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During the period 1975-1997, 106 patients with epidermoid carcinoma of the anal canal underwent radiation therapy. Treatment policies evolved from radiation therapy alone or with surgery, to combined chemotherapy and radiation followed by surgery, to combined chemotherapy and radiation.

RESULTS

Overall 74% of patients were NED (no evidence of disease) at last follow-up. The most important clinical correlate with ultimate freedom from disease (includes the contribution of salvage surgery) was extent of disease. The 5-year ultimate freedom from disease was 87+/-5% for T1/T2N0, 78+/-10% for T3N0 (15% salvaged by surgery), and 43+/-10% for either T4N0 or any N+ lesions (P<0.001, Tarone-Ware). There was no difference between planned vs. expectant surgery (5-year ultimate NED: 67+/-11% planned surgery vs. 73+/-5% expectant surgery). The most important correlate with late toxicity was a history of major pelvic surgery (surgical vs. non-surgical group: P=0.013, Fisher's exact test, two-tailed summation). Thirty-three additional malignancies have been seen in 26 patients. The most common additional malignancies were gynecologic (nine cases), head and neck (six cases), and lung cancer (five cases).

CONCLUSIONS

For T1/T2N0 disease, moderate doses of radiation combined with chemotherapy provided adequate treatment. T4N0 and N+ lesions are the most appropriate candidates for investigational protocols evaluating dose intensification. T3N0 tumors may also be appropriate for investigation; however, dose intensification may ultimately prove counterproductive if the cure rate is not improved and salvage surgery is rendered more difficult. The volume of irradiated small bowel should be minimized for patients who have a past history of major pelvic surgery or who (because of locally advanced tumors) may need salvage surgery in the future. Because of the occurrence of additional malignancy, patients with anal cancer should receive general oncologic screening in long-term follow-up.

Thermal injury increases the number of eosinophil progenitors in rat spleen and bone marrow

We have investigated the effects of thermal injury upon myelopoiesis. IL-3, GM-CSF, and IL-5 were used to stimulate myeloid colony formation. IL-3 induces early myeloid progenitors and a more developed myeloid progenitor, the granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming unit (GM-CFU), to multiply and develop into mature myeloid cells. GM-CSF induces GM-CFU to become mature myeloid cells, while IL-5 induces eosinophil progenitors to become mature eosinophils. Stem Cell Factor (SCF) + IL-6 and FLT3 ligand, which have no effect on colony formation by themselves, were used to enhance the effects of IL-3 and GM-CSF, respectively. We found that thermal injury increased the number of early myeloid progenitors and GM-CFU in the spleen with either IL-3 or GM-CSF as a stimulant. Thermal injury increased the number of early myeloid progenitors in the bone marrow when GM-CSF, but not IL-3, was used to stimulate colony growth. Also, thermal injury increased the numbers of eosinophil progenitors in rat spleen and bone marrow and increased splenic levels of IL-5 mRNA.

Living with Marfan syndrome II. Medication adherence and physical activity modification

We investigated the perceptions of and adherence to medication and physical activity guidelines in 174 adults with Marfan syndrome. Over 80% of those prescribed beta- and Ca2+-channel blockade reportedly adhere well to their medication regimen. The presence of cardiovascular symptoms and fatigue were positively correlated with the medication use. Medication-takers reported that they are psychologically receptive to the use of medication for prophylactic treatment of their cardiovascular problems. However, all do not view their medication as essential for their health. Duration of the medication regimen, type of medication, and perception of controllability of the condition were each independently associated with respondents' perceptions of the necessity of taking beta- or Ca2+-channel blockers. Over 80% of the respondents reported that they choose their physical activities with their diagnosis in mind. Modifying exercise activities was significantly correlated with an increased perception of Marfan syndrome as having negative consequences on the respondents' lives. Genetic counseling should address beliefs about medication use and physical activity restrictions, as perceptions of these health behaviors may have significant impact on how adults with Marfan syndrome adhere to these recommendations and cope with their condition.

Living with Marfan syndrome I. Perceptions of the condition

We present data from an exploratory study of 174 adults with Marfan syndrome regarding their cognitive perceptions of the condition as postulated by the self-regulatory model (Leventhal H, Benyamini Y, Brownlee S et al. In: Petrie KI, Weinman JA, eds. Perceptions of Health and Illness: Current Research and Applications. Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Harwood Academic, 1997: 19-45; Leventhal H, Nerenz DR, Steele DJ. In: Baum A, Taylor SE, Singer JE, eds. Handbook of Psychology and Health. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 1984: 219-252). The vast majority of the respondents had adequate general knowledge about Marfan syndrome. Eighty-three percent of the respondents perceived Marfan syndrome as having had significant adverse consequences on their lives. Having striae, pain (sore joints), and depression were each independently correlated with this view. Fifty-eight percent of the respondents indicated that they felt they had low to moderate control over their condition, demonstrating variability. History of aortic dissection, pain (sore joints), and depressive symptoms were each negatively correlated with the view that Marfan syndrome is a curable/controllable condition. Moreover, approximately 28% view the condition as a lethal condition, whereas 67% view it as a serious condition. Forty-four percent of the cohort were found to have significant symptomatology of depression independent of beta- and Ca2+-channel blockade use. Respondents cited both advantages and disadvantages of being affected. Genetic counseling that addresses patients' perceptions of Marfan syndrome, and its associated pain, fatigue, and depressive symptoms, may enhance patient adaptation to the condition.

Identification of Aspergillus fumigatus and related species by nested PCR targeting ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer regions

Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common species that causes invasive aspergillosis. In order to identify A. fumigatus, partial ribosomal DNA (rDNA) from two to six strains of five different Aspergillus species was sequenced. By comparing sequence data from GenBank, we designed specific primer pairs targeting rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of A. fumigatus. A nested PCR method for identification of other A. fumigatus-related species was established by using the primers. To evaluate the specificities and sensitivities of those primers, 24 isolates of A. fumigatus and variants, 8 isolates of Aspergillus nidulans, 7 isolates of Aspergillus flavus and variants, 8 isolates of Aspergillus terreus, 9 isolates of Aspergillus niger, 1 isolate each of Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus penicilloides, Aspergillus versicolor, Aspergillus wangduanlii, Aspergillus qizutongii, Aspergillus beijingensis, and Exophiala dermatitidis, 4 isolates of Candida, 4 isolates of bacteria, and human DNA were used. The nested PCR method specifically identified the A. fumigatus isolates and closely related species and showed a high degree of sensitivity. Additionally, four A. fumigatus strains that were recently isolated from our clinic were correctly identified by this method. Our results demonstrate that these primers are useful for the identification of A. fumigatus and closely related species in culture and suggest further studies for the identification of Aspergillus fumigatus species in clinical specimens.

Species-specific PCR for identification of common contaminant mollicutes in cell culture

Mycoplasma arginini, M. fermentans, M. hyorhinis, M. orale, and Acholeplasma laidlawii are the members of the class Mollicutes most commonly found in contaminated cell cultures. Previous studies have shown that the published PCR primer pairs designed to detect mollicutes in cell cultures are not entirely specific. The 16S rRNA gene, the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer region, and the 5' end of the 23S rRNA gene, as a whole, are promising targets for design of mollicute species-specific primer pairs. We analyzed the 16S rRNA genes, the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer regions, and the 5' end of the 23S rRNA genes of these mollicutes and developed PCR methods for species identification based on these regions. Using high melting temperatures, we developed a rapid-cycle PCR for detection and identification of contaminant mollicutes. Previously published, putative mollicute-specific primers amplified DNA from 73 contaminated cell lines, but the presence of mollicutes was confirmed by species-specific PCR in only 60. Sequences of the remaining 13 amplicons were identified as those of gram-positive bacterial species. Species-specific PCR primers are needed to confirm the presence of mollicutes in specimens and for identification, if required.

[Aluminum toxicity and tolerance in wheat]

The physiological and biochemical effects of different species of aluminum on the wheat Al-tolerant TAM202 and Al-sensitive TAM105 were investigated. The results showed that mononuclear Al could be absorbed by both of the two strains. Compared with TAM105, however, TAM202 absorbed less aluminum. The pH of the nutrient solution rose with the hydroponics of the two-cultivars. The content of proline in leaves of TAM105 increased obviously. The contents of protein, hexose and uronic acid in cell wall of TAM202 were higher than that in TAM105 under 75 mumol.L-1 Al. The results indicated that Al can activated the synthesis of some components relative to Al-tolerance in cell wall.

A facile and effective synthesis of alpha-(1-->6)-linked mannose di-, tri-, tetra-, hexa-, octa-, and dodecasaccharides, and beta-(1-->6)-linked glucose di-, tri-, tetra-, hexa-, and octasaccharides using sugar trichloroacetimidates as the donors and unprotected or partially protected glycosides as the acceptors

Reaction of 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl trichloroimidate with allyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside in the presence of TMSOTf selectively gave allyl 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-alpha-D-mannopyranoside through an orthoester intermediate. Benzoylation of 3, followed by deallylation, and then trichloroimidation afforded the disaccharide donor 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl trichloroimidate, while benzoylation of 3 followed by selective removal of acetyl groups yielded the disaccharide acceptor allyl alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranoside. Coupling of 5 with 6 gave the tetrasaccharide allyl 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranoside, which were converted into the tetrasaccharide donor 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl trichloroimdate and the tetrasaccharide acceptor allyl alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1-->6)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranoside, respectively, by the same strategies as used for conversion of 3 into 5 and 6. Condensation of 5 with 13 gave the hexasaccharide 14, while condensation of 12 with 13 gave the octasaccharide 17. Dodecasaccharide 21 was obtained by the coupling of 12 with the octasaccharide acceptor 20. Similar strategies were used for the syntheses of beta-(1-->6)-linked glucose di-, tri-, tetra-, hexa-, and octamers. Deprotection of the oligosaccharides in ammonia-saturated methanol yielded the free alpha-(1-->6)-linked mannosyl and beta-(1-->6)-linked glucosyl oligomers.

The effectiveness of risk-based intrapartum chemoprophylaxis for the prevention of early-onset neonatal group B streptococcal disease

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to evaluate the effectiveness of a risk-based intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis strategy for the prevention of early-onset neonatal group B streptococcal disease.

STUDY DESIGN

Cases and controls were selected from infants born to women with one or more risk factors: preterm labor or rupture of membranes, prolonged rupture of membranes (>18 hours), fever during labor, or previous child with group B streptococcal disease. Cases were matched with controls by birth hospital and gestational age. Data abstracted from medical records were analyzed to estimate the effectiveness of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 109 cases and 207 controls. Nineteen (17%) case versus 69 (33%) control mothers received an acceptable regimen of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis. In adjusted analyses, the effectiveness of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis was 86% (95% confidence interval, 66%-94%). When the first dose of antibiotics was given > or =2 hours before delivery, the effectiveness increased to 89% (95% confidence interval, 70%-96%); when it was given within 2 hours of delivery, the effectiveness was 71% (95% confidence interval, -8%-92%). Effectiveness was lowest in mothers with intrapartum fever (72%, 95% confidence interval, -9%-93%). On the basis of a 70% prevalence of maternal risk factors expected among cases in the absence of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis, we estimate that the risk-based strategy could reduce early-onset group B streptococcal disease by 60%.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk-based approach to intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis is effective in preventing early-onset group B streptococcal disease. To achieve the maximum preventive effect, the first dose of antibiotics should be administered at least 2 hours before delivery.

Facile synthesis of a comb-like mannohexaose: a trimer of the disaccharide repeating unit of the cell-wall mannans of Aphanoascus mephitatus and related species

An efficient method for the preparation of a comb-like mannohexaose having alpha-(1-->6) and alpha-(1-->2) linkages has been described using 6-O-acetyl-2-O-benzoyl-3,4-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate as the key glycosyl donor in an 'inverse Schmidt' procedure.

Practical synthesis of a tetrasaccharide derivative corresponding to ristomycin A and ristocetin A

A practical synthesis of fully benzoylated tetrasaccharide, whose free form is indispensable to the antibiotic ristomycin A for the process of dimerization and binding to the cell wall, was achieved via sequential assembly of the building blocks, allyl 3,4-di-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside, 2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate, 2-O-acetyl-3,4,6-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate, and 2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-arabinofuranosyl trichloroacetimidate. A one-pot preparation of allyl 3,4-di-O-benzoyl-2-O-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-6-O-triphenylmethyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside is described, and regioselective glycosylation is carried out using perbenzoylated sugar trichloroacetimidates as glycosyl donors in the presence of a catalytic amount of trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate (TMSOTf).

Syntheses and reactions of 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3-O-benzyl-alpha-D-ribofuranose and beta-D-lyxofuranose, 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,6-di-O-benzyl- and 1,2-anhydro-5,6-di-O-benzoyl-3-O-benzyl-beta-D-mannofuranose, and 6-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,4-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose and -beta-D-talopyranose

The title compounds 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3-O-benzyl-alpha-D-ribofuranose and 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3-O-benzyl-beta-D-lyxofuranose, and 6-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,4-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose and 6-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,4-di-O-benzyl-beta-D-talopyranose, and 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,6-di-O-benzyl-beta-D-mannofuranose and 1,2-anhydro-5,6-di-O-benzoyl-3-O-benzyl-beta-D-mannofuranose have each been synthesized from the corresponding 2-O-tosylate and 1-free hydroxyl intermediates by base-initiated intramolecular S(N)2 ring closure in almost quantitative yields. Acetyl and benzoyl groups were not affected in the ring closure reactions. Condensation of 6-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,4-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose and 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,6-di-O-benzyl-beta-D-mannofuranose with 1,2:3,4-di-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-galactopyranose in the presence of ZnCl2 as the catalyst afforded the 1,2-trans-linked 6-O-acetyl-3,4-di-O-benzyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-1,2:3,4-di-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-galactopyranose and 5-O-acetyl-3,6-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-mannofuranosyl-(1-->6)-1,2:3,4-di-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-galactopyranose as the sole products in satisfactory yields, while condensation of 5-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3-O-benzyl-beta-D-lyxofuranose with 3-O-benzyl-1,2-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-xylofuranose yielded the 1,2-trans-linked 5-O-acetyl-3-O-benzyl-alpha-D-lyxofuranosyl-(1-->5)-3-O-benzyl-1,2-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-xylofuranose as the sole product in a good yield. The 6-O-acetyl group in the glycosyl donor, 6-O-acetyl-1,2-anhydro-3,4-di-O-benzyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose, did not influence the stereoselectivity of the ring-opening-coupling reaction.

Highly efficient and practical synthesis of 3,6-branched oligosaccharides

[reaction: see text] A one-pot formation of the 3- and 6-OH differentially protected sugar synthon was described. A mannopyranosyl pentasaccharide and a glucopyranosyl hexasaccharide were prepared employing this new finding.

Rapid-cycle PCR for detection and typing of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in clinical specimens

We designed several new primers and modified previously described species- and type-specific primers targeting the Mycoplasma pneumoniae P1 adhesin gene. Optimized thermal profiles allowed one-step or nested PCR to be completed in less than 1 h. In 10 patients with pneumonia, M. pneumoniae type 1 was identified in 3 and type 2 in 7.

An efficient and concise regioselective synthesis of alpha-(1 --> 5)-linked L-arabinofuranosyl oligosaccharides

A series of alpha-(1 --> 5)-linked L-arabinofuranosyl di-, tetra-, hexa- and octameric derivatives were synthesized efficiently. The process was carried out in a regio- and stereoselective manner using perbenzoylated arabinofuranosyl trichloroacetimidates as glycosyl donors and unprotected or partially protected arabinofuranosides as glycosyl acceptors in the presence of a catalytic amount of trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate (TMSOTf).

A facile synthesis of the tetrasaccharide repeating unit of mannoglucan from Microellobosporia grisea

A facile synthesis of the tetrasaccharide repeating unit of mannoglucan from Microellobosporia grisea was achieved through coupling of 4,6-O-benzylidene-1,2-O-ethylidene-alpha-D-glucopyranose with per-O-benzoylated mannopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate, followed by debenzylidenation, selective 6-O-mannopyranosylation, then hydrolysis of the 1,2-O-ethylidene group, 1,2-O-acetylation and conversion to the 1-trichloroacetimidate, and subsequent condensation of the activated trisaccharide with allyl 2,3,6-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside.

Molecular genotyping of human Ureaplasma species based on multiple-banded antigen (MBA) gene sequences

Ureaplasma urealyticum has been divided into 14 serovars. Recently, subdivision of U. urealyticum into two species has been proposed: U. parvum (previously U. urealyticum parvo biovar), comprising four serovars (1, 3, 6, 14) and U. urealyticum (previously U. urealyticum T-960 biovar), 10 serovars (2, 4, 5, 7-13). The multiple-banded antigen (MBA) genes of these species contain both species and serovar/subtype specific sequences. Based on whole sequences of the 5'-ends of MBA genes of U. parvum serovars and partial sequences of the 5'-ends of MBA genes of U. urealyticum serovars, we previously divided each of these species into three MBA genotypes. To further elucidate the relationships between serovars, we sequenced the whole 5'-ends of MBA genes of all 10 U. urealyticum serovars and partial repetitive regions of these genes from all serovars of U. parvum and U. urealyticum. For the first time, all four serovars of U. parvum were clearly differentiated from each other. In addition, the 10 serovars of U. urealyticum were divided into five MBA genotypes, as follows: MBA genotype A comprises serovars 2, 5, 8; MBA genotype B, serovar 10 only; MBA genotype C, serovars 4, 12, 13; MBA genotype D, serovar 9 only; and MBA genotype E comprises serovars 7 and 11. There were no sequence differences between members within each MBA genotype. Further work is required to identify other genes or other regions of the MBA genes that may be used to differentiate U. urealyticum serovars within MBA genotypes A, C and E. A better understanding of the molecular basis of serotype differentiation will help to improve subtyping methods for use in studies of the pathogenesis and epidemiology of these organisms.

The effect of burn injury on suppressors of cytokine signalling

The newly identified suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family of proteins act as intracellular inhibitors of several cytokine signal transduction pathways. Their expression is induced by cytokine activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (Jak/STAT) pathway, and they act as a negative feedback loop by subsequently inhibiting the Jak/STAT pathway either by direct interaction with activated Jaks or with the receptors. In this study we investigated the expression and translation of SOCS proteins after burn injury. Thermal injury increased the expression of SOCS3 compared with sham at 4 h, 24 h, and 10 days after thermal injury in the liver. SOCS3 protein was increased at 4 and 24 h after thermal injury in the liver. Expression of SOCS1 mRNA was not detected in sham or burn liver. SOCS2 mRNA and cytokine-inducible SH2-containing protein (CIS) mRNA were detected at the same levels for both sham and burn at all time points in the liver. In the spleen there was a trend towards an increase in SOCS1 mRNA at all time points; thermal injury significantly decreased SOCS2 mRNA compared with sham at 4 h, SOCS3 mRNA was significantly increased at 24 h compared with 10 days, and CIS mRNA was detected at the same levels for both sham and burn at all time points. In conclusion, thermal injury causes elevations in SOCS3 within 4 h after a burn, reaching a maximum at 24 h post injury. Levels continue to be elevated for up to 10 days post injury. SOCS3 may be very important in regulating the balance between immunosuppression and inflammation after thermal injury.

[The expression of interleukin-6 mRNA and autosecretion in human leukemic cells]

OBJECTIVE

To make a comprehensive and systematic study on the constructive expression of IL-6 mRNA and IL-6 autosecretion in human leukemic cells and discuss the effect of IL-6 autosecretion on the specific binding of IL-6-PE40 fusion protein to targeted leukemic cells.

METHODS

Semi-quantitative RT-PCR, sequencing and ELISA were used to detect the constructive expression of IL-6 mRNA and autosecretion level of IL-6 protein in human leukemic cell lines, such as U937, HL60, KG1, TF1, K562, HuT28, CEM and Raji.

RESULTS

The relative expression level of IL-6 mRNA in myelocytic, monocytic and erythrocytic leukemic cell lines including HL60, U937, KG1 and TF1 and lymphoblastic leukemic cell lines such as CEM, HuT28 and Raji is very weak, ranging from 0.03 to 0.07. However, K562, an chronic myelocytic leukemic cell line, had the highest level 1.25 among the 8 leukemic cell lines and the level was also higher than that of the positive control U266 multiple myeloma cell line. Based on ELISA assay of IL-6, there were remarkable differences between the 8 leukemic cell lines, their secretion of IL-6 could be divided into 3 levels, i.e. high, moderate and low secretion type.

CONCLUSION

These observations imply that the intrinsic expression and secretion of IL-6 differ obviously among different leukemic cell lines. Autocrine IL-6 may prevent IL-6-PE40 fusion protein from specific binding to targeted leukemic cells and consequently affect its specific killing toxicity.

Saccharomicins, novel heptadecaglycoside antibiotics produced by Saccharothrix espanaensis: antibacterial and mechanistic activities

Saccharomicins A and B, two new heptadecaglycoside antibiotics, were isolated from the fermentation broth of the rare actinomycete Saccharothrix espanaensis. They represent a novel class of bactericidal antibiotics that are active both in vitro and in vivo against bacteria and yeast (MICs: Staphylococcus aureus, <0.12 to 0. 5; vancomycin-resistant enterococci, 0.25 to 16; gram-negative bacteria, 0.25 to >128; and yeast, >128 microg/ml), including multiply resistant strains. Saccharomicins protected mice from lethal challenges by staphylococci (subcutaneous 50% effective dose range of 0.06 to 2.6 mg/kg of body weight, depending on the S. aureus strain). The 50% lethal dose by the subcutaneous route was 16 mg/kg. Mechanistic studies with Escherichia coli imp and Bacillus subtilis suggested complete, nonspecific inhibition of DNA, RNA, and protein biosynthesis within 10 min of drug treatment. Microscopic examination of drug-treated cells also suggested cell lysis. These data are consistent with a strong membrane-disruptive activity. The antibacterial activities of the saccharomicins against gram-positive bacteria were unaffected by the presence of Ca(2+) or Mg(2+), but activity against gram-negative bacteria was substantially reduced.

[Probing the origin of plastic surgery and its early development in China]

The modern plastic surgery, accompanied with western medical science, was transmitted to our country by missionary since the opium war (1840). By looking into the medical journal, literature materials published before 1949, it may be confirmed that the department of plastic surgery first appeared in 1934 and was established by Dr. Ni Bao - Chun. At the same time, this author found 27 papers totally belong to plastic surgery in that historical stage and the contents of these papers would basically reflected the scientific level during that period. It might be considered that by then the plastic surgery in our country is in a primative period.

A facile synthesis of 1-(5'-O-acetyl-3'-O-benzyl-beta-D-xylofuranosyl)thymidine: a potentially viable intermediate for the preparation of the anti-AIDS drugs, AZT and D4T

The title compound has been synthesized by smooth condensation of 1,2-anhydro-5-O-acetyl-3-O-benzyl-alpha-D-xylofuranose, obtained from D-xylose through a series of mild and effective reactions, with activated thymine in the absence of catalyst.

Prediction from an integrated regression equation: a forestry application

Models to depict the tapering of a tree bole abound in the literature of forest science, and such models are widely used in forestry practice. One important use is the integration of a taper equation to predict the volume of the tree bole. The statistical properties of volume prediction from an integrated taper equation have been obscure. Based on the statistical characteristics of a taper model for the bole's cross-sectional area, we derive the first two moments of the volume predictor and the prediction error. Bias from the integration is nil. The importance of a reasonable model of the error structure is demonstrated.

Risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection in United States blood donors. NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS)

Injection drug use (IDU) is a known risk factor for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, but the strength of other parenteral and sexual risk factors is unclear. In 1997, we performed a case-control study of 2,316 HCV-seropositive blood donors and 2,316 seronegative donors matched on age, sex, race/ethnicity, blood center, and first-time versus repeat-donor status. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression. Questionnaires were returned by 758 (33%) HCV(+) and 1,039 (45%) control subjects (P =.001). The final multivariate model included only the following independent HCV risk factors: IDU (OR = 49.6; 95% CI: 20.3-121.1), blood transfusion in non-IDU (OR = 10.9; 95% CI: 6.5-18.2), sex with an IDU (OR = 6.3; 95% CI: 3.3-12.0), having been in jail more than 3 days (OR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.3-6.6), religious scarification (OR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.2-7. 0), having been stuck or cut with a bloody object (OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.1), pierced ears or body parts (OR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1-3.7), and immunoglobulin injection (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0-2.6). Although drug inhalation and a high number of lifetime sex partners were significantly more common among HCV seropositives, they were not associated with HCV after controlling for IDU and other risk factors. IDU, blood transfusion among non-IDU, and sex with an IDU are strong risk factors for HCV among United States blood donors. Weaker associations with incarceration, religious scarification, being stuck or cut with a bloody object, pierced ears or body parts, and immunoglobulin injection must be interpreted with caution.

Species identification and subtyping of Ureaplasma parvum and Ureaplasma urealyticum using PCR-based assays

There is good evidence that the organism currently known as Ureaplasma urealyticum should be divided into two species-U. parvum (previously U. urealyticum biovar 1) and U. urealyticum (previously U. urealyticum biovar 2). In this study, we designed a series of primers, targeting the 16S rRNA gene and 16S rRNA-23S rRNA intergenic spacer regions, the urease gene subunits, and the 5' ends of the multiple-banded antigen (MBA) genes, to identify and subtype these Ureaplasma species. All of the species-specific primer pairs could distinguish the two species, but only subtype-specific primer pairs targeting the MBA genes could distinguish subtypes within each species. U. parvum was separated into three subtypes, represented by serovars 1, 3/14, and 6. U. urealyticum was also separated into three subtypes by PCR and/or direct sequencing. Subtype 1 consisted of serovars 2, 5, 8, and 9; subtype 2 contained serovars 4, 10, 12, and 13; and subtype 3 contained serovars 7 and 11. A selection of primer pairs was used to identify and subtype 78 clinical ureaplasma isolates from vaginal swabs of pregnant women and to identify and subtype ureaplasmas directly in 185 vaginal swabs in which they had been previously detected. U. parvum was identified in 228 (87%) of 263 isolates or specimens, and U. urealyticum was identified in 50 (19%) (both were present in 6%). Serovars 3/14 (48%) and 1 (43%) were most common among U. parvum isolates, and subtypes 2 (62%) and 1 (34%) were most common among U. urealyticum isolates. This new PCR-based typing system will facilitate future studies of the relationship between individual Ureaplasma species or subtypes and human disease.

Synthesis of a tetrasaccharide representing a minimal epitope of an arabinogalactan

The hydrophobic alkyl chain-containing tetrasaccharide, dodecyl beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-->6)-[alpha-L - arabinofuranosyl-(1-->2)]-beta-D-galactopyranoside, was synthesized efficiently using a convergent strategy. In coupling reactions, protected trichloroacetimidates proved to be better donors than their corresponding bromides in the preparation of the dodecyl disaccharide and trisaccharide. Zemplén deacylation provided the target tetramer in good overall yield.

Plasma transforming growth factor-beta1 level before radiotherapy correlates with long term outcome of patients with lung carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Plasma transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGFbeta1) levels are increased in many malignancies at the time of diagnosis, including all forms of lung carcinoma. Therefore, the potential use of TGFbeta1 as a plasma marker to predict the long term outcome of lung carcinoma patients treated with radiotherapy (RT) was evaluated.

METHODS

Plasma samples for 59 newly diagnosed lung carcinoma patients were assayed for TGFbeta1 before RT (pre RT), at the end of RT (end RT), and during follow-up after RT. TGFbeta1 was extracted from plasma using an acid-ethanol method. An enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay was used to quantify the plasma TGFbeta1 levels. The normal value for this assay is < or =7.5 ng/mL. Disease status at last follow-up was without knowledge of TGFbeta1 levels. Comparisons within groups and between groups were estimated using analysis of variance and the Student t test for unpaired data, respectively.

RESULTS

The 59 patients were divided into 2 groups according to their disease status at last follow-up: those with no evidence of disease (NED) (n = 13) and those with disease (WD) (n = 46). The median follow up was 26.8 months and 12.4 months, respectively, for the NED and WD groups. No significant differences were found in the clinical characteristics between the two groups. The plasma TGFbeta1 level before RT was significantly higher in the WD group (mean +/- standard error of the mean [SEM] = 12.5+/-1.7 ng/mL; median = 8.6 ng/mL) compared with the NED group (mean +/- SEM = 6.0+/-1.0 ng/mL; median = 6.0 ng/mL) (P = 0.037). At the time of last follow-up, WD patients had a significantly higher plasma TGFbeta1 level (mean +/- SEM = 11.6+/-1.3 ng/mL; median = 9.6 ng/mL) compared with NED patients (mean +/- SEM = 3.7+/-0.5 ng/mL; median = 3.6 ng/mL) (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that plasma TGFbeta1 may be a useful tumor marker in patients with lung carcinoma.

Analysis of donor return behavior. Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study

BACKGROUND

Efforts to provide a safe, adequate blood supply have been inhibited by persistent shortages attributed to a lack of motivation on the part of the general public and inefficiency in recruiting processes. This study examined whether frequency of donations and/or timing of subsequent donations by first-time donors related to donor demographics.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Characteristics of 879,816 first-time donors making at least one whole-blood donation were analyzed. Cox proportional-hazards regression models evaluated the first 10 return times separately, and a recurrent-event Cox model was applied to simultaneously evaluate the first five returns.

RESULTS

The shorter the donation interval between the first two donations, the more likely the donor was to make subsequent donations. The proportion of repeat donors increased with education level. Rate of donation increased with age and education. The recurrent-event Cox regression model showed that Rh-negative donors, older donors, and donors who had completed college had higher donation return rates.

CONCLUSION

Time to return for second donation was associated with total number of donations made and with return rate for subsequent returns. Age was the strongest predictor of high donation frequency and early-return rate. Relationships between interdonation interval and the number of future donations may prove useful in understanding return behavior and developing donor recruitment and retention strategies.

[The calculation of Einstein spontaneous emission coefficients of HBr molecule]

The Einstein spontaneous emission coefficients of some rovibrational transitions of HBr molecule have been calculated from the first principle. The calculation is carried out for the deltav = 1 transitions of v < or = 7, J < or = 14 of R and P branches. A time-resolved Fourier transform infrared emission spectrum of the HBr molecule was recorded. The observed intensities of the spectral lines well agree the calculated coefficients.