[Study on specificity of IgM antibody response in patients with coxsackie virus B infection]

OBJECTIVE

To study the specificity of IgM antibody response in patients with Coxsackie virus B infection.

METHODS

A Coxsackie virus B specific immunoblot assay was established for detection of CVB IgM antibody response in patients with recent CVB infection.

RESULTS

Of 28 patients' serum samples, positive by ELISA captured CVB IgM test, analysis results of specific IgM response defined by immunoblot assay revealed VP1 protein specific which was crossly reactive among CVB group.

CONCLUSION

This finding suggested that VP1 protein in Coxsackie virus B group potentially functioned as a predominant antigen inducing detectable IgM antibody following CVB infection.

[Biological removal of VOCs emissions]

The designed test conditions were following: vacancy velocity was from 0.7 cm/s to 3.5 cm/s, retention time was from 30 s to 80 s. Column activated carbon was selected as the filler of the reactor and toluene was taken as representative of VOCs. The biodegradation of toluene using biofilter reactor and the influence of concentration, flow and humidity on the toluene removal were investigated and the removal model was set up. The experimental results showed that the biofilter reactor had higher toluene removing ability. The observation of biotic community demonstrated that the microbes consisted of fungi, bacillus and spore bacillus. Of them spore bacillus was dominant.

Electrocardiographic manifestations: digitalis toxicity

Toxicity from the digitalis family of cardiac glycoside medications remains common. Successful treatment depends on early recognition; however, the diagnosis of potentially life-threatening toxicity remains difficult because the clinical presentation is often nonspecific and subtle. The hallmark of cardiac toxicity is increased automaticity coupled with concomitant conduction delay. Though no single dysrhythmia is always present, certain aberrations such as frequent premature ventricular beats, bradydysrhythmias, paroxysmal atrial tachycardia with block, junctional tachycardia, and bidirectional ventricular tachycardia are common. Treatment depends on the clinical condition rather than serum drug level. Management varies from temporary withdrawal of the medication to administration of digoxin-specific Fab fragments for life-threatening cardiovascular compromise.

Creating anoxic and microaerobic conditions in sequencing batch reactors treating volatile BTX compounds

An experimental strategy is introduced for studying the biodegradation of wastewaters containing volatile contaminants using an alternating anoxic/microaerobic sequencing batch reactor (SBR). Benzene, toluene, and the xylene isomers (BTX) served as model volatile contaminants for this study. The reactor was configured to overcome stripping the volatile BTX compounds into the atmosphere to provide opportunities for BTX biodegradation. Oxygen-free anoxic and microaerobic (< 0.2 mg/L dissolved oxygen) conditions were established using a novel laboratory reactor configuration. ORP was successfully used to monitor different electron acceptor conditions in the SBR. Toluene and m-xylene were amenable to anoxic (denitrifying) metabolism while benzene, o-, and p-xylene were biodegradable under microaerobic conditions. The results demonstrate that establishing microaerobic conditions in full-scale bioreactors may be an appropriate way to encourage the biodegradation of aerobically biodegradable volatile contaminants. Additionally, the laboratory reactor configuration introduced in this paper may be useful in subsequent studies involving microaerobic metabolism.

Inheritance and allelism tests of Raiden soybean for resistance to soybean mosaic virus

The gene symbol Rsv2 was previously assigned to the gene in the soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] line OX670 for resistance to soybean mosaic virus (SMV). The Rsv2 gene was reported to be derived from the Raiden soybean (PI 360844) and to be independent of Rsv1. Accumulated data from our genetic experiments were in disagreement with this conclusion. In this study, Raiden and L88-8431, a Williams BC5 isoline with SMV resistance derived from Raiden, were crossed with two SMV-susceptible cultivars to investigate the mode of inheritance of SMV resistance in Raiden. They were also crossed with five resistant cultivars to examine the allelomorphic relationships of the Raiden gene with other reported genes at the Rsv1 locus. F1 plants, F2 populations, and F2-derived F3 (F2:3) lines were tested with SMV strains G1 or G7 in the greenhouse or in the field. The individual plant reactions were classified as resistant (R, symptomless), necrotic (N, systemic necrosis), or susceptible (S, mosaic). The F2 populations from R x S crosses segregated in a ratio of 3 (R + N):1 S and the F2:3 lines from Lee 68 (S) x Raiden (R) exhibited a segregation pattern of 1 (all R):2 segregating:1 (all S). The F2 populations and F2:3 progenies from all R x R crosses did not show any segregation for susceptibility. These results demonstrate that the resistance to SMV in Raiden and L88-8431 is controlled by a single dominant gene and the gene is allelic to Rsv1. The heterozygous plants from R x S and R x N crosses exhibited systemic necrosis when inoculated with SMV G7, indicating a partial dominance nature of the resistance gene. Raiden and L88-8431 are both resistant to SMV G1-G4 and G7, but necrotic to G5, G6, and G7A. Since the resistance gene in Raiden is clearly an allele at the Rsv1 locus and it exhibits a unique reaction to the SMV strain groups, assignment of a new gene symbol, Rsv1-r, to replace Rsv2 would seem appropriate. Further research is ongoing to investigate the possible existence of the Rsv2 locus in OX670 and its relatives.

Molecular species analysis of 1,2-diacylglycerol released in response to progesterone binding to the amphibian oocyte plasma membrane

Progesterone, the physiological inducer of amphibian meiosis, acts within minutes at plasma membrane receptors of the Rana pipiens oocyte to release 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) from plasma and intracellular membranes. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of lipid extracts of uninduced oocytes indicates the presence of at least three classes of DAG with a total DAG content of about 150 micromol/kg wet weight. Within 3-5 min after exposure to progesterone, there was a differential increase in all three DAG classes with a twofold increase in total DAG by 10 min. The fatty acid composition of the DAGs in uninduced and progesterone-stimulated oocytes was compared using thin layer chromatographic analysis of lipid extracts from oocytes double-labeled with [14C] or [3H]glycerol and [14C] or [3H]fatty acids. The ratio of labeled fatty acid/labeled glycerol was measured in phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylinositol (PI) and DAG. The linoleic (18:2) or arachidonic (20:4) acid/glycerol ratios in basal DAG were low compared to that in PC or PI. In contrast, the myristic (14:0), palmitic (16:0) or oleic (18:1) acid/glycerol ratios in basal DAG were relatively high compared to the ratio in PC and PI. A transient increase in both linoleic and palmitic acid labeling of DAG occurred within the first 1-2 min in progesterone-treated oocytes, followed by a return to or below the basal level. Arachidonic and myristic acid labeling of DAG fall within the first minute after progesterone treatment, followed by a sustained rise over the next 10 min. The [3H]oleic acid/[14C]glycerol ratio of DAG does not change significantly following exposure to progesterone. Pretreatment with a phospholipid N-methylation inhibitor (2-methylaminoethane) precluded the rise in linoleic and palmitic acid-rich DAG, whereas pretreatment with a diglyceride kinase inhibitor (D102) produced a sustained elevation of linoleic and palmitic acid-rich DAG. These results indicate that the DAG released in response to progesterone is composed of multiple new molecular species of DAG and that both the palmitate and linolate-rich forms are rapidly phosphorylated to form phosphatidic acid (PA). The newly formed DAG species differ from the basal DAG species and reflect sequential activation of sphingomyelin (SM) synthase, PC-specific phospholipase D (PLD) and PI-specific phospholipase C in response to progesterone, which we have described previously.

Petrochemical exposure and menstrual disturbances

BACKGROUND

An exploratory, cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted to examine the effects of benzene exposure on menstrual problems.

METHODS

The study was based on a survey administered to over 3,000 women who worked in a large petrochemical company in Beijing, China. An abnormal menstrual cycle length (AMCL), defined as an average menstrual cycle length of greater than 35 days or less than 21 days, is the major outcome of interest.

RESULTS

After 7 years of benzene exposure, the adjusted odds ratio of having AMCL for each additional 5 years of exposure was 1.71 (95% CI 1.27-2.31). Feeling stressed at work was also an important predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests a significant association of benzene exposure and perceived stress with menstrual disturbance. A prospective study is needed to confirm this finding.

Treatment of murine angiosarcoma with etoposide, TNP-470 and prednisolone

To develop effective therapies for angiosarcoma, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of etoposide (ETO), TNP-470 and prednisolone (PSL) using an established murine angiosarcoma cell line (ISOS-1). We examined the direct anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic effects of these drugs on ISOS-1 cells and normal murine microvascular endothelial cells (mECs) in vitro. Cell growth of ISOS-1 was inhibited significantly by ETO, moderately by TNP-470, and not at all by PSL (IC(50): 0.25 microg/ml, 10 microg/ml, >8000 microg/ml, respectively). One the other hand, cell growth of mECs was inhibited significantly by TNP-470, slightly by PSL, and negligibly by ETO (IC(50): 0.85 ng/ml, 0.7 microg/ml, 10 microg/ml, respectively). In an in vivo assay, tumor growth of ISOS-1 was significantly inhibited by more than 2.5 mg/kg of ETO dose-dependently, and by more than 30 mg/kg of TNP-470, and 100 mg/kg of PSL individually. Combination treatments of ETO+TNP-470 and TNP-470+PSL showed synergistic enhancement of inhibition (% control inhibition: ETO vs. TNP-470 vs. ETO+TNP-470: 55 versus 55 vs. 16%) (% control inhibition: TNP-470 vs. PSL vs. TNP-470+PSL: 41 vs. 86 vs. 21%). ETO+PSL combination treatment, however, failed to show significant enhancement of anti-tumor effects. In conclusion, our results indicated that TNP-470 may be a very effective drug for angiosarcoma treatment, especially in combination with ETO or PSL. We eagerly anticipate the use of TNP-470 in clinical treatment of angiosarcoma.

Increased potassium concentration inhibits stimulation of vascular smooth muscle proliferation by PDGF-BB and bFGF

The effects of changes in extracellular potassium concentration on the rate of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation stimulated by cytokines and serum were analyzed in vitro. To analyze the DNA synthesis response, cells from swine coronary artery were grown in DMEM medium containing 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmol/L potassium together with 20 ng/mL platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), 25 ng/mL basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), or 5% fetal bovine serum (FBS), with [methyl 3H] thymidine added, for 24 h. Proliferation responses were analyzed in cells grown in medium with potassium concentrations of 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmol/L, together with either 20 ng/mL PDGF-BB, 25 ng/mL bFGF, or 5% FBS, for 7 days, then harvested and counted. Highly significant inverse relationships were observed between potassium concentration and 3H-thymidine incorporation stimulated by each of the three agonists (P < .01 for each, ANOVA), and between potassium concentration and proliferation (all P < .01, ANOVA). Elevation of potassium concentration within the physiologic range inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell DNA synthesis and proliferation.

High potassium intake inhibits neointima formation in the rat carotid artery balloon injury model

Recently, we reported that elevated extracellular potassium concentration in vitro inhibited proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells, formation of free radical compounds by macrophages, and reduced platelet sensitivity to agonists. In the present study we analyzed the effects of long-term, in vivo elevation of extracellular potassium concentration resulting from changes in dietary potassium intake on the vascular response to injury. The rat carotid artery balloon injury model was employed in 70 adult Sprague Dawley rats assigned to three groups. Beginning 14 days before surgical placement of the carotid lesion and continuing until death, the animals were fed diets containing either low (0.1% potassium, n = 25), normal (1.5% potassium, n = 19), or high potassium (4.0% potassium, n = 26). Fourteen days postsurgery the animals were killed and the arteries were analyzed to determine quantitatively the ratio of neointimal to medial area. Dietary potassium had a significant effect on arterial plasma potassium concentration (one-way analysis of variance, P < .01). Group mean and standard errors were 4.26+/-0.12 mmol/L for the low-potassium group, 5.22+/-0.19 mmol/L for normal, and 5.80+/-0.23 mmol/L for the high-intake group. Increases in dietary potassium attenuated neointima formation significantly (P < .05, one-way analysis of variance), with the mean ratio of neointimal area to medial area being 0.447+/-0.106 for the low-intake animals, 0.384+/-.116 for normal, and 0.240+/-.046 for the high-intake group. These results are consistent with a hypothesis that a high level of potassium intake is effective in inhibiting neointima formation in vivo.

[Photoluminescence study of star-like C60(CH3)x(PAN)x copolymer]

Thin film of new synthesized C60(CH3)x(PAN)x copolymer was fabricated by physical jet deposition (PJD) technique. C60 molecule lies in the center of the star-like copolymers. PAN main chain is modified around the C60 molecules. Absorption and photoluminescence spectra show that there are strong interaction between C60 molecule and PAN, which depends on the length of PAN chain. Partly excitation transfer process between C60 molecule and PAN was observed, which leads to the fluorescence quenching of the PAN.

[Discussions on some problems related to fluid inclusion analysis by SXRF]

X-ray fluorescence experiments were carried out at Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facilities (BSRF) using synchrotron radiation as excitation source. The samples were made by mixing national reference standard GBW07106 and certain amount of reagent NaCl and KCl, and pressed into pellets. The purpose of the experiment is to verify the detection ability of the XRF setup at BSRF for elements in geological samples, especially for light elements. The beam size was 20 x 20 microns2, and the current in the storage ring was about 40 mA. The gap between the sample and the Si(Li) detector was 2 cm. With measuring time of 200 sec., The relative and absolute detection limits for 10 elements have been calculated. The sampling depth and sampling weight, which are critical in individual fluid inclusion analysis, have also been estimated. Some problems concerning the individual fluid inclusion analysis by SXRF, such as inclusion depth determination, effect of the inclusion depth on XRF intensity etc., are discussed based on the experiment results.

[Ehancement of tissue expansion in guinea pig by local delivery of chemical agents using a new type expander]

OBJECTIVE

To search for the new method to increase the rate of tissue expansion.

METHODS

A new type of double-lumen expander was buried in the back of guinea pig. Through the expander chemical agents (papaverine) were delivered.

RESULTS

The new expander could effectively deliver chemical agents. In comparison with the control group, the blood flow, survival length and the length to width ratio of the expanded flap in the experimental group increased statistically. The immediate retraction ratio of the flap decreased significantly. The epidermis was thicker while the dermis was not significant different from the control. The panniculus carnosus was significant thinner in the expanded group than the unexpanded group. The deep connective tissue was statistically thinner in the group using the new type expander.

CONCLUSION

The new type of expansion method could accelerate tissue expansion rate and improve the quality of expanded skin and flap.

Inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cell migration by elevation of extracellular potassium concentration

The effect of potassium on the migration of vascular smooth muscle cells was analyzed in media made with extracellular potassium concentrations of 3, 4, 5, and 6 mmol/L. The migration of cultured porcine coronary artery cells was stimulated with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB. In the first study, cells were exposed to PDGF-BB at concentrations of 0, 10, or 20 ng/mL for 5 hours with the use of a Boyden chamber. Cells were quiescent overnight in 0.5% fetal bovine serum in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium with an extracellular potassium concentration of 4 mmol/L. With increasing potassium concentration, migration was significantly inhibited (P<0. 02, 2-way ANOVA). In the cells exposed to 10 ng/mL PDGF-BB, migration ranged from 500+/-86% to 294+/-44% (value in wells with 0 ng/mL PDGF-BB and 4 mmol/L potassium concentration=100%) in medium containing 3 to 6 mmol/L extracellular potassium concentration (P<0. 03). Long-term potassium exposure was investigated in cells grown in 5% serum in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium with an extracellular potassium concentration of 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmol/L for 3 to 4 weeks. Migration was assessed with 0 or 20 ng/mL PDGF-BB. Migration was significantly inhibited by the elevation of extracellular potassium concentration (P<0.01, 2-way ANOVA). With 20 ng/mL PDGF-BB, the migration rates ranged from 152+/-11% in medium with 3 mmol/L potassium to 69+/-5% in 6 mmol/L potassium (P<0.01). Increases in extracellular potassium concentration within the physiological range significantly and directly inhibit vascular smooth muscle cell migration.

[Mechanism of gold solvent extraction from alkaline cyanide solution by surfactant 1 427]

The solvent extraction of gold and the structure of the organic phase were studied by labelled 198Au, 31P NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. The results show that the water content increased with the increase of gold contents in the organic phase. The P=O stretching decreases, while the 31P signal shifts to upfield.

Changes in serum cardiac troponin I levels after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possible effect of percutaneous transluminal coronary (PTCA) on myocardium.

METHODS

Serum cTnl and CK-MB were measured in 60 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent PTCA before and at the 6th, 12th, 24th, 48th and 72nd hour after the interventional procedure respectively.

RESULTS

The serum cTnl levels began to increase at 6 hours (9.65 +/- 6.27 micrograms/L) in 18 patients, reached the peak levels during 12-24 hours (20.43 +/- 11.28 micrograms/L, 18.52 +/- 9.52 micrograms/L), and returned to normal range till 48-72 hours (7.35 +/- 7.62 micrograms/L, 5.51 +/- 3.13 micrograms/L) after PTCA. The serum cTnl and CK-MB levels were kept normal range pre- and post-PTCA in 30 cases. The levels of cTnl in 12 cases were over baseline either before or after the procedure, while for CK-MB, only in 3 cases were over normal range after PTCA. Compared with normal cTnl group, elevated cTnl levels were related to total inflation times and dilated times (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PTCA may cause some minor damage in myocardium, serum cTnl level was more sensitive and specific for monitoring myocardial injury.

[Effect of energy intake at breakfast on school performance]

In order to examine the effect of energy intake at breakfast on school performance, 151 grade three school children from four classes of two schools were sampled for this study. Children were randomly assigned to breakfast A or B on any given day. They were provided with breakfast with either high or low energy content at school over a period of 5 successive days. The remained foods were collected and weighed. Performance tests including addition, multiplication, number checking, logic, creativity, physical endurance, visual-analogue scales were applied at the third or fourth period of courses in the morning on Tuesday through Friday during the experimental week. The teachers involved in the study were blind to the kind of treatment. No significant effect of energy intake at breakfast on these performance indicators was found in this study.

Promotional effects of CO(2) laser and scalpel incision on 4-NQO-induced premalignant lesions of mouse tongue

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

CO(2) laser and scalpel incision have been demonstrated to have promotional effects on oral neoplastic lesions. However, a precise understanding has not been achieved as to which modality has a more significant effect on cancer promotion. The purpose of this study was to determine the histological and biological changes after CO(2) laser surgery and scalpel incision in oral premalignant lesions.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Premalignant lesions of mouse tongue induced by 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) in drinking water for 4 months were used in this study. A 2-mm incision was made on the right margin of each mouse tongue, using either a CO(2) laser (group A) or a scalpel (group B). Mice without incisional treatment were used as controls (group C). Seven months after laser and scalpel treatments, hematoxylin-eosin staining and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and p53 immunostaining were performed for tongue specimens.

RESULTS

The epithelia of right tongue margins showed more severe dysplasia than those of left tongue margins in both group A and group B. The PCNA labeling indices (LIs) and EGFR expression for right tongue margins were also higher than for left margins in both group A and group B. There was no obvious difference between these two groups. Almost no p53-positive staining was found in either group.

CONCLUSION

CO(2) laser surgery and scalpel incision seem to have similar promotional effects on oral premalignant lesions.

[Immunohistochemical study of safe resection margin in the surgical treatment of laryngeal carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study safe resection margin of laryngectomy according to the level of protein of gene expression.

METHOD

Using citric-LSAB-immunochemical technique, the expressions of ras, c-myc and P53 were studied in different regions of larynx including 30 cases laryngeal carcinoma, border area, adjacent mucosa which was 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 cm away from cancer and four normal laryngeal mucosa.

RESULT

The results showed that both single expression and co-expression of p21, p62 and p53 increased as tissue progressed in sequence from normal mucosa, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5 cm distant mucosa adjacent to carcinoma, border area and carcinoma. A significant different expression in most of them can be seen at regions of 0.5 cm and 1.0 cm distant from the tumor (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The tissue 0.5 cm adjacent to the tumor should be regarded as precancerous lesion. It is appropriate to regard 0.5 cm away from tumors as resection margins for surgical treatment of laryngeal carcinoma.

Vascular protective effects of potassium

Potential mechanisms responsible for the cardiovascular protection associated with high levels of dietary potassium were investigated in in vitro and in vivo studies. Elevation of extracellular potassium concentration within the physiological range inhibited free radical formation from macrophages and endothelial cells, inhibited proliferation and thymidine incorporation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and reduced platelet sensitivity to thrombin and other agonists. The effects of potassium on several well-characterized animal models of vascular pathology were also studied. Acute elevation of plasma potassium concentration inhibited thrombus formation in the coronary artery of the dog and the carotid artery of the rabbit. In cholesterol-fed rabbits, 6 weeks of diet containing low potassium content increased by approximately 50% (compared with control rabbits) the number of arteries in the myocardium showing signs of arteriosclerotic lesion formation. And in rats and pigs, 4 weeks of eating high potassium-content diet reduced the severity compared with control animals of neointimal proliferation associated with balloon angioplasty. We propose that high levels of dietary potassium provide cardiovascular protection by inhibiting the function of the cells that are responsible for vascular lesion formation.

Bcr: a negative regulator of the Bcr-Abl oncoprotein

Chronic myelogenous leukemia is typically characterized by the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) in which 5' portions of the BCR gene are fused to a large portion of the ABL gene. Our studies and those of others indicate that Bcr sequences within the Bcr-Abl oncoprotein are critically involved in activating the Abl tyrosine kinase and actively participate in the oncogenic response, which is generated by the Bcr-Abl oncoprotein. We investigated the role of the Bcr protein in the oncogenic effects of Bcr-Abl. Reduction of the level of the Bcr protein by incubating cells with a 3' BCR anti-sense oligodeoxynucleotide increased the growth rate and survival of hematopoietic cell lines expressing Bcr-Abl. Also, enforced expression of Bcr in Bcr-Abl cell lines strongly reduced transformation efficiency. Induction of Bcr expression drastically reduced the phosphotyrosine content of Bcr-Abl in Rat-1 fibroblasts transformed by P185 BCR-ABL and in hematopoietic cells expressing P210 Bcr-Abl within days following induction of Bcr. Rat-1/P185 cells maintained for three weeks after Bcr induction had dramatically reduced amounts of phosphotyrosine proteins compared to cells in which Bcr expression was repressed by the addition of Tet. In contrast Bcr expression did not decrease the phosphotyrosine content of either v-Src or activated Neu tyrosine kinase. Importantly, the phosphotyrosine content of total P160 BCR (induced plus endogenous) was strongly reduced by inducing expression of Bcr, indicating that the induced Bcr protein was not a target of the tyrosine kinase activity of Bcr-Abl but instead functioned as an inhibitor of Bcr-Abl. These results show that the Bcr protein can function as a negative regulator of Bcr-Abl, but that the inhibitory effects of Bcr are dependent on achieving an elevated level of Bcr expression relative to Bcr-Abl.

Inverse relationship between potassium intake and coronary artery disease in the cholesterol-fed rabbit

We tested the hypothesis that a low level of dietary potassium intake would exacerbate the severity of vascular lesion formation in rabbit coronary arteries during high cholesterol intake. Two groups of nine rabbits were studied for 6 weeks while eating a diet containing 2% cholesterol and 0.9% sodium. The normal potassium group consumed a diet containing 1.5% potassium and the low potassium group consumed a diet containing 0.4% potassium. After 6 weeks the animals were killed, the hearts were removed, and blood samples were withdrawn from the abdominal aorta immediately before removing the heart. The hearts were sectioned and slides were prepared and fixed with hematoxylin and eosin. The numbers of normal and abnormal vessels, and those with foam cells in the subintima, were counted in selected sections. Plasma potassium concentration in the normal and low potassium intake groups averaged 4.27 +/- 0.27 mmol/L and 3.90 +/- 0.11 mmol/L, respectively. No differences between the groups were observed in plasma cholesterol or body weight gain. The percentages of abnormal arteries in the groups were 4.20 +/- 0.35 in the normal intake group and 6.36 +/- 0.50 in the low intake group, 51% greater in the normal intake group (P < .001). These results support the hypothesis that low potassium intake exacerbates the severity of subintimal lesion development in the coronary arteries.

[The development of model DYC-I multi-purpose device for lumbar vertebra puncture]

A multi-purpose device for lumbar Vertebra puncture, which is ablete obtain cerebrospinal fluid (csf) and to determine the intracranial pressure, is presented here. This device has the functions of avoiding blindness of puncture, measuring pressure hermetically, liquid crystal display and controlling the flow of CSF.

[Continuous determination of Zn, Cu and Mn in tea by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry]

This paper reports the determination of trace metals Zn, Cu and Mn in tea by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The method is simple and rapid with good precision and accuracy. The characteristic concentration is 0.009 microg/mL/1% for Zn, 0.031 microg/mL/1% for Cu and 0.017 microg/mL/1% for Mn, respectively. The relative standard deviation is between 0.9% and 5.0%. The recovery rate is between 92.0% and 106.0%.

[Neural cluster structure with single component prediction in multiple variable systems for X-ray fluorescence spectrometry]

A neural cluster structure with single component prediction (NCSCP) was proposed for X-ray fluorescence spectrometry in a multivariable system. The neural cluster structure is built by the collection of a group of neurons which have close relationships among one another. In X-ray fluorescence analysis, the structure is constructed by choosing the elements in which there exist serious matrix effects, and deleting the components containing large noise. The predictability of the neural cluster structure was compared with that of the classical backward error propagation algorithm with single component prediction. The results show that the neural cluster structure is significantly superior to the classical algorithm in prediction accuracy, antidisturbance and the predictabilty to outliers.

[FTIR and FT-Raman studies on interactions between water and surfactants in water/KDEHP (75%)-HDEHP (25%)/n-HEPTANE microemulsion systems]

The conformation of the hydrocarbon chains in water/KDEHP(75%)-HDEHP(25%)/n-HEPTANE microemulsion systems was studied by FT-Raman spectroscopy. The increase in the intensity ratio Ir (I2937/I2875) showed trans to gauche transformation. The hydration of the polar heads in microemulsions was investigated by FT-IR spectroscopy. Some probable structures of KDEHP and HDEHP in microemulsions were proposed.

[Water structure in water/KDEHP-HDEHP/n-Heptane microemulsion by FTIR spectroscopy]

The structure of water in microemulsion is one of the basic subjects in the field of surface science. FTIR spectroscopy is considered as a powerful tool in the study on water structure. In this paper, we investigated water structure in the water/KDEHP (potassium bis (2-ethylhexyl) phosphate) -HDEHP/n-Heptane system. By using the Fourier self-deconvolution and curve-fitting method, the OH stretching band of water in the KDEHP-HDEHP microemulsion was resolved into four subpeaks which were tentatively assigned to absorbances of four different components of water. In order to explain the variations of peak positions of subpeaks with water content some probable hydration models of surfactants were proposed.

Structure-activity relationships: analogues of the dicaffeoylquinic and dicaffeoyltartaric acids as potent inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 integrase and replication

The dicaffeoylquinic acids (DCQAs) and dicaffeoyltartaric acids (DCTAs) are potent and selective inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) integrase. They also inhibit HIV-1 replication at nontoxic concentrations. Since integrase is an excellent target for anti-HIV therapy, structure-activity relationships were employed to synthesize compounds with: (1) improved potency against HIV-1 integrase, (2) improved anti-HIV effect in tissue culture, and (3) increased selectivity as indicated by low cellular toxicity. Thirty-four analogues of the DCTAs and DCQAs were synthesized and tested for cell toxicity, anti-HIV activity, and inhibition of HIV-1 integrase. Seventeen of the 34 analogues had potent activity against HIV-1 integrase ranging from 0. 07 to >10 microM. Seventeen analogues that were synthesized or purchased had no inhibitory activity against integrase at concentrations of 25 microM. Of the biologically active analogues, 7 of the 17 inhibited HIV replication at nontoxic concentrations. The most potent compounds were D-chicoric acid, meso-chicoric acid, bis(3,4-dihydroxydihydrocinnamoyl)-L-tartaric acid, digalloyl-L-tartaric acid, bis(3,4-dihydroxybenzoyl)-L-tartaric acid, dicaffeoylglyceric acid, and bis(3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetyl)-L-tartaric acid. Anti-HIV activity of the active compounds in tissue culture ranged from 35 to 0.66 microM. Structure-activity relationships demonstrated that biscatechol moieties were absolutely required for inhibition of integrase, while at least one free carboxyl group was required for anti-HIV activity. These data demonstrate that analogues of the DCTAs and the DCQAs can be synthesized which have improved activity against HIV integrase.

Effect of photodynamic therapy using 5-aminolevulinic acid on 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide-induced premalignant and malignant lesions of mouse tongue

A new photosensitizing agent 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-based photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been demonstrated as a useful method for treatment of superficial neoplastic lesions. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of topically and systemically ALA-based PDT in neoplastic lesions of the oral cavity. Premalignant and malignant lesions of mouse tongue induced by 4-nitroquinoline-l-oxide (4NQO) were used in this study. At 1, 2 and 3 h after topical application of ALA or 3 h after systemic administration of ALA (250 or 1000 mg/kg), the lesions were irradiated with Nd: YAG dye laser at 630 nm (200 J/cm2). Both premalignant and early malignant lesions showed complete response to systemically ALA-based PDT. In an invasive nodular malignant lesion, however, only the superficial portion was affected. There was no apparent difference in the PDT effect between 250 and 1000 mg/kg doses of ALA. In contrast, topically ALA-based PDT had virtually no effect on most lesions. It was concluded that systemically ALA-based PDT is a useful method for treating premalignant and early malignant lesions in the oral cavity, while topically ALA-based PDT using this preparation may be unsuitable for treatment of oral lesions.

[Commentary on the methods for studying the mechanism of electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry]

The methods for studing the mechanism of electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry are critically reviewed 40 references and cited.

[Determination of selenium by platform graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry]

The matrix modifier and its amount, the ashing or atomization temperature of selenium and interference experiment are investigated. The experimental result shows that the application of Pd-Ca as mixed matrix modifier not only reduces interference but also enhances ashing temperature and increases sensitivity. The method can be used directly for the determination of selenium in cereal by platform graphite furnace atomic absorption. The characteristic mass is 39 ng,the detection limit is 0.11 microg/g, the relative standard deviation is 4.9-7.7% and the recovery is 92-100%.

[Part of biological activity of peptidoglycan from Streptococcus lactis SB900]

Peptidoglycan of Streptococcus lactis SB900(LABPG) was isolated. It's chemical composition was analyzed and part of biological activity was examined. The PG contained 9.84% protein, 0.871 mumol/m NAG, 1.14 mumol/mg NAM. The amino acids of relatively high concentrations were Ala, Glu, Asp and their concentrations were 1.046, 0.775, 0.304 mumol/mg respectively. Using mice as subject, the animal experiment confirmed that LABPG was non-toxic and safe. Effect of i.p. LABPG 0.5 mg/mouse on the phagocytic function were studied. It was suggested that the phagocytic activity of PM phi had markedly enhanced, the activity of serum lysozyme was increased significantly. YC-Rosette experiment suggested that the activity of C3b receptors of PM phi were increased and the YC-Rosette forming ratio were higher than controls. The difference was significant by statistical analysis. Therefore, it is considered that LABPG was able to activate M phi and improve immune function in mice.

[Three cases of Dieulafoy's disease]

OBJECTIVE

To increase the knowledge of Dieulafoy's disease and decrease the misdiagnosis rate.

METHOD

Three cases of Dieulafoy's disease were analyzed clinically and their therapeutic methods were discussed.

RESULT

Subtotal gastrectomy including the lesion is better than other methods.

CONCLUSION

It is necessary to understand the clinical pattern and pathological characteristics in order to increase the diagnosis rate and decrease misdiagnosis rate. Subtotal gastrectomy or wide wedge resection of the lesion is recommended.

[Clinical observation on benign osteolytic bone defects treated with natural non-organic bone]

It is extremely necessary to find an ideal filling material for the treatment of benign bone defect, particularly those benign osteolytic defect in children with a comparatively large cavity. From July, 1995 to December, 1996, 10 cases of benign osteolytic bone defects were treated, in which 5 cases of benign osteolytic defects, 3 cases of bone cysts, 1 case of fibrous dysplasia of bone and 1 case of non-ossifying fibroma. After through curettage of the cavity, the natural non-organic bone in cube-shaped was used to fill the prepared cavity. The results showed that the activities of the patients resumed normal in 3 to 6 months after operation. The roentgenographic examination after operation showed that the lucent spaces between NNB cubes disappeared with obvious new bone formation and the bony cavity was obliterated with newly-formed bone. There was no recurrence of the lesion during a follow-up of 7 to 24 months. It was concluded that to treat the osteolytic defect of bone with NNB was a method of choice. The new bone formation appeared early in large amount and increased rapidly.

[Effects of lead on neurone cells and distribution of calcium in rat brain]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between blood lead levels and damage in neurone cells.

METHODS

Young rats were fed with water containing 10 and 20 mg/L of lead for three months since the first day of their weaning. Lanthanum nitrate tracing, calcium cytochemical location technique and Golgi's stain were used to observe changes in rat brain tissues.

RESULTS

There were no obvious changes in brain tissues of the low-dose group as its blood lead level reached 1.67 times high as that in control one. Permeability of neurone cells changed and distribution of calcium in plasmalemma increased and their cytoplasm disintegrated in part of the microtubule in the dendrites and axons of the neurones as its blood lead level in high-dose group reached 2.46 times high as that in control one.

CONCLUSION

It is possible that pathological changes found in this study provide a basis for the decrease in cognitive function caused by lead during their middle brain development in rats.

Comparison of bromodeoxyuridine labeling indices of smears and sections from mouse NR-S1 tumor

Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling indices (LIs) of smears and sections from mouse NR-S1 tumor were labeled in vivo or in vitro and compared to confirm the reliability of smears labeled in vitro. In vivo labeling was carried out by administering 40 mg/kg 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine while in vitro labeling was performed by incubating the tumor specimens in RPMI 1640 culture medium containing 200 microM 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine under 3 atmospheres. BrdU LIs of sections labeled in vitro (9.49 +/- 0.16) showed lower values than those labeled in vivo (14.95 +/- 0.36). BrdU LIs of smears labeled in vitro (9.87 +/- 0.23) also showed lower values than those labeled in vivo (14.83 +/- 0.49). However, the BrdU LIs of smears were similar to those of sections labeled in vivo and in vitro. In vitro BrdU immunochemistry in smears seems useful for evaluating the biological properties of tumor tissues.

[Effects of heat, noise, and their combination on plasma atrial natriuretic peptides, cardiodilatin, endogenous digitalis like substance, angiotensin II and endothelin in rats]

Plasma contents of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP), cardiodilatin (CDD), endogenous digitalis like substance (EDLS), angiotensin II (A II) and endothelin (ET) were determined in rats following exposure to high temperature, noise and a combination of the two. It was found that plasma content of ANP after heat exposure decreased significantly, CDD and A II content after heat or noise exposure increased obviously, ET content decreased significantly after exposure to combined factors. ANP and CDD have the same physiological function and changes. ANP, CDD and A II observed in the present study were considered to be compensatory responses. It is harmful if exposure to high temperature or noise lasts for a long time.

[Relationship between blood glucose, insulin and hypertension in 60 obese children]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between blood glucose, insulin and hypertension in children.

METHODS

Fasting serum glucose (GS), insulin (IS) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were determined in 60 obese children and 60 normal controls, and oral glucose tolerance test was performed for half of them.

RESULTS

It showed that there were no significant differences in fasting GS, HDL and GS after glucose load between the two groups, and fasting IS, IS after glucose load, an area and a ratio of IS to GS under the insulin curve all were higher in the obese group than those in the control one. There were 43 obese children (71.7%) with hypertension.

CONCLUSION

There existed hyper-insulinemia and insulin resistance in obese children and there also was close relationship between obesity and hypertension in them.

Association of petrochemical exposure with spontaneous abortion

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association between petrochemical exposure and spontaneous abortion, a retrospective epidemiological study in a large petrochemical complex in Beijing, China was conducted.

METHODS

Plant employment records identified 3105 women who were married, were 20-44 years of age, and had never smoked. Of those, 3070 women (98.8%) reported at least one pregnancy. From this group, 2853 (93%) of the women participated in the study. According to their plant employment record, about 57% of these women workers reported occupational exposure to petrochemicals during the first trimester of their pregnancy. Trained interviewers administered a standardised questionnaire to this group of women and their husbands, collecting information on reproductive history, pregnancy outcomes, employment history, occupational exposure, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, indoor air pollution, and demographic variables. The results from the womens' first pregnancies were analysed.

RESULTS

There was a significantly increased risk of spontaneous abortion for women working in all of the production plants with frequent exposure to petrochemicals (8.8%; range of 5.8%-9.8%) compared with those working in nonchemical plants (2.2%; range of 0.0%-7.1%). Also, when a comparison was made between exposed and non-exposed groups within each plant, exposure to petrochemicals was consistently associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion. The overall odds ratio (OR) was 2.7 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.8 to 3.9) after adjusting for potential confounders. When the analysis was performed with the exposure information obtained from the women' interview responses for (self reported) exposures, the estimated OR for spontaneous abortions was 2.9 (95% CI 2.0 to 4.0). The analysis was repeated by excluding those 452 women who provided inconsistent reports between recalled exposure and work history, and a comparable risk of spontaneous abortion (OR 2.9; 95% CI 2.0 to 4.4) was found. In analyses for exposure to specific chemicals, an increased risk of spontaneous abortion was found with exposure to most chemicals, and the results for benzene (OR 2.5; 95% CI 1.7 to 3.7), gasoline (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.1 to 2.9), and hydrogen sulphide (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.2 to 4.4) were significant.

CONCLUSION

An increased risk of spontaneous abortion was found associated with the exposure to petrochemicals, including benzene, gasoline, and hydrogen sulphide.

Isolated limb reperfusion with tumor necrosis factor and melphalan in patients with extremity melanoma after failure of isolated limb perfusion with chemotherapeutics

BACKGROUND

This retrospective study evaluated the benefit of using tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and melphalan administered via an isolated limb perfusion (ILP) in a series of patients with metastatic melanoma who failed initial ILP with chemotherapeutics.

METHODS

Seventeen patients with extremity melanoma who underwent prior ILP with conventional chemotherapeutics (10 with melphalan; 4 with platinum; 2 with platinum, dacarbazine, thiotepa, actinomycin D, and nitrogen mustard; and 1 with thiotepa, actinomycin D, and nitrogen mustard) and had local recurrences were treated with a 90-minute isolated hyperthermic limb reperfusion with melphalan (10 mg/L limb volume) plus TNF (2-6 mg). Five prior ILPs were adjuvant and 12 were therapeutic.

RESULTS

Reperfusion was associated with an overall 94% response rate and a 65% complete response (CR) rate. Of the patients who failed an initial ILP with melphalan alone the overall response rate was 90% after the reperfusion with TNF and melphalan. In patients who failed an initial ILP with agents other than melphalan the CR rate was 100% after ILP with TNF and melphalan. TNF/melphalan isolated limb reperfusion was found to be more effective in terms of CR after initial ILP regimens that did not utilize melphalan (100% CR after nonmelphalan ILP vs. 50% CR after melphalan ILP [P = 0.04]). Regional toxicity was comprised of mild skin blistering and peeling in 47% of patients. One patient developed Grade 3 (based on National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria) skin necrosis, and one developed Grade 5 muscle and nerve toxicity, requiring an amputation.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated limb reperfusion with TNF and melphalan can be performed safely with response rates similar to those of other trials of single perfusions. Repeat ILP using TNF and melphalan in patients with melanoma who have failed prior ILP with chemotherapeutics is justified. The utility of TNF (vs. melphalan alone) will be defined in ongoing Phase III trials.

[Determination of mangiferin in qingqiliangying injection by reversed-phase HPLC]

A reversed-phase HPLC method has been established for the determination of mangiferin in Qingqiliangying Injection. The mangiferin was separated on a Nova-pak C18 column (150 mm x 3.9 mm) and detected at 258 nm, using methanol-tetrahydrofuran-0.85% H3PO4 aqueous solution (500:80:15) as the mobile phase. The average recovery of mangiferin was 100.9%. The method is simple, rapid, and well reproducible, and thus very reliable for the quality control of Qingqiliangying Injection.

[Fabrication and use of two kinds of overdenture attachments]

The authors introduced the fabrication of stud attachment and bar attachment used to increase the stability and retention of overdenture. During two years' periods, the results of the clinical practice indicated: the retention of overdenture was increased and patients' masticator function was improved when attachments were used, and then the fabrications of two kinds of attachments were simple and value of attachments is cheap. The technique was popularized and used easily.

[Isolation and structure elucidation of three dihydrophenanthrenes from Ephemerantha lonchophylla]

In this paper, three dihydrophenanthrenes are isolated from the Stems and pseudobulbs of Ephemerantha lonchophylla (Orchidaceae). They are identified as Iusianthridin (1), ephemeranthol-B (2) and erianthridin (3) by spectral data.

Expression of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine associated epitope in synovium: a potential marker of glycoprotein production

OBJECTIVE

To investigate synovial glycoprotein production in situ, a novel monoclonal antibody (Mab), A13D8, was used to evaluate the expression of an epitope containing N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) in normal and pathological synovium.

METHODS

Immunohistological and cytochemical analysis of synovial tissue samples was undertaken with single and double staining techniques using the A13D8 Mab, anti-CD68, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), the hyaluronan associated enzyme uridine diphosphoglucose dehydrogenase (UDPGD), and the anti-Golgi Mab SSN/HR-1992. The specificity of the A13D8 Mab was established through blocking studies using carbohydrate residues, including GalNAc and N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc).

RESULTS

A13D8 is expressed intensely in the cytoplasm of normal type B lining cells, which coexpress VCAM-1 and UDPGD, and is not expressed by CD68+ type A lining cells. In the lining layer of RA synovium, there is a negative correlation between A13D8 expression and the level of lymphocytic infiltration in the sublining areas (r = -0.43, p < 0.001). The endothelium of a subset of venules, typically in lymphocyte-rich aggregates, also stains intensely for A13D8. Pretreatment of the Mab with GalNAc completely eliminates the tissue staining, as well as the 110 kDa band seen on immunoblot, whereas pretreatment of A13D8 with GlcNAc and lactose has no effect. Double staining of HEp-2 cells with A13D8 and the anti-Golgi Mab SSN/HR-1992 reveals co-localization of the A13D8 epitope to the Golgi apparatus.

CONCLUSION

Type B synovial lining cells and selected synovial endothelium express GalNAc containing epitope identified by Mab A13D8. Marked reduction in the expression of this epitope in the lining layer of inflamed RA synovium suggests that the synovial production of GalNAc containing glycoproteins, such as mucins, may be altered in this disorder.

Bcr phosphorylated on tyrosine 177 binds Grb2

We and others have shown that the Bcr-Abl oncoprotein binds activators of the Ras pathway such as Grb2 and Shc. Grb2 binding is mediated through a phosphorylated tyrosine residue (Y177) located within a consensus Grb2 binding site encoded by the first exon of the BCR gene. Our results indicate that P160 BCR is tyrosine phosphorylated at the same site by Bcr-Abl in kinase assays (Puil et al., 1994). We performed experiments to determine whether Bcr, which was tyrosine phosphorylated within cells by activated c-Abl, could also bind Grb2, and whether phosphotyrosine 177 was the major binding site. Complexes between Bcr and Abl were detected in a hemopoietic cell line lacking Bcr-Abl and in COS1 cells coexpressing both Bcr and Abl proteins. P160 BCR was tyrosine phosphorylated in COS1 cells coexpressing Abl and Bcr proteins. Similarly, various deletion mutants of Bcr including BCRN553, BCRN413 and BCRN221 were tyrosine phosphorylated by activated c-Abl whereas BCRN159 was not. Wild-type Bcr and Bcr Y177F were examined under these conditions for their ability to co-precipitate with Grb2. The results showed that while wild-type tyrosine phosphorylated Bcr efficiently bound Grb2, tyrosine phosphorylated Bcr Y177F had greatly reduced Grb2-binding ability. Studies with GST-SH2 (Grb2) revealed that tyrosine phosphorylated Bcr was able to bind to GST SH2 (Grb2) but tyrosine phosphorylated Bcr Y177F was deficient in binding. These results indicate that the Bcr protein when phosphorylated at tyrosine 177 binds Grb2, thereby implicating Bcr as a potantial activator of the Ras pathway.

[Effect of heat, noise and their combination on plasma and myocardial angiotensin II in rats]

Effects of heat (40 degrees C, relative humidity 82%), noise (115dB) and the combination of heat and noise on angiotensin (A II) content in plasma and myocardia was observed in rats. The results showed: (1) plasma A II in control group, heat group, noise group and combined group were 358.72 +/- 35.78, 624.08 +/- 36.32, 783.27 +/- 34.32 and 619.65 +/- 37.72 pg/ml respectively. The A II content in heat group, noise group and combined group are significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.01). The increase in noise group was significant as compared with those in the heat group and combined group (P<0.05). (2) The myocardia A II in control group, heat group, noise group and combined group were 594.78 +/- 82.46, 935.10 +/- 15l.51, 326.22 +/- 28.45, and 438.37 +/- 58.63 pg/mg W.W respectively. The myocardial A II content in heat group was significantly higher (P<0.01), but that in noise group than the control was significantly lower(P<0.O5).