A report of the 1995 and 1996 Paternity Testing Workshops of the English Speaking Working Group of the International Society for Forensic Haemogenetics

We report the results of the 1995 and 1996 Paternity Testing Workshops of the English Speaking Working Group of the International Society for Forensic Haemogenetics. In 1995, 18 laboratories participated and in 1996, 21 laboratories participated. Each year, blood samples from three persons (child, mother and alleged father) were sent to participating laboratories which performed paternity testing according to their usual protocols. The results and answers to questionnaires concerning methods were compiled and are presented in this report. From the questionnaires, a general tendency to a more frequent use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based methods was seen. In 1996, 62% of the laboratories used PCR based methods. Ten per cent of the laboratories used only PCR based methods. The remaining 90% of the laboratories performed restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) investigations of variable numbers of tandem repeat (VNTR) loci with single locus probes (SLPs) either alone or in combination with PCR based typing, multi locus probing, classical systems (ABO etc.), or serological HLA typing. In 1996, typing with classical systems was used in 29% of the laboratories. The majority of the laboratories performed RFLP typing of VNTR loci using very similar methods. The results and the inter-laboratory variations of the measured lengths of the DNA-fragments of the VNTR regions D2S44, D7S21, D7S22, and D12S11 of the trios were analysed. The overall coefficient of variation was 2.15% in 1995 and 1.43% in 1996. During the period 1991-1996, the inter-laboratory variation has decreased, most probably due to the fact that the methods have now been optimised and the majority of the participating laboratories have adopted the standardised method for RFLP typing with SLPs which was agreed upon for investigations in crime cases by the European DNA Profiling Group. In 1996, eight laboratories reported the results of PCR based typing of the short tandem repeat (STR) locus HumTH01, six laboratories reported results of HumVWA31A typing, and five laboratories reported the results of typing of the STR locus HumF13A1 and the VNTR locus D1S80. The results were concordant although the nomenclature was slightly inconsistent concerning the classification of an irregular repeat of the HumTH01 system.

Differential recruitment of leukocyte populations and alteration of airway hyperreactivity by C-C family chemokines in allergic airway inflammation

Allergic airway inflammation is characterized by peribronchial leukocyte accumulation within the airway. Subsequent tissue damage leading to airway hyperreactivity is a result of activation of multiple leukocyte populations. Using an established model of allergic airway inflammation induced by intratracheal challenge with parasite (Schistosoma mansoni) egg Ag in presensitized mice, we have examined differential leukocyte recruitment. These studies have identified key chemokines involved in the accumulation of specific subsets of cells and the induction of airway hyperreactivity. In this study we have examined three C-C family chemokines, MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, and RANTES, which promote mononuclear cell- and eosinophil-specific recruitment to the airway. The in vivo neutralization of either MIP-1alpha or RANTES, but not MCP-1, significantly reduced the intensity of the eosinophil recruitment to the lung and airway during the allergic airway response by >50 and >60%, respectively. In contrast, neutralization of MCP-1 significantly reduced total leukocyte migration (>50% reduction), whereas neutralization of RANTES and MIP-1alpha had no significant affect on the overall leukocyte migration. Further examination of the effect of MCP-1 depletion indicated that both CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subsets were decreased. Depletion of MCP-1 significantly reduced the airway hyperreactivity to near control levels, whereas depletion of MIP-1alpha or RANTES did not affect the intensity of airway hyperreactivity. These data indicate that multiple C-C chemokines are involved in the recruitment of particular leukocyte populations and that neutralization of MCP-1, but not RANTES or MIP-1alpha, significantly reduced airway hyperreactivity.

Differential recruitment of leukocyte populations and alteration of airway hyperreactivity by C-C family chemokines in allergic airway inflammation

Allergic airway inflammation is characterized by peribronchial leukocyte accumulation within the airway. Subsequent tissue damage leading to airway hyperreactivity is a result of activation of multiple leukocyte populations. Using an established model of allergic airway inflammation induced by intratracheal challenge with parasite (Schistosoma mansoni) egg Ag in presensitized mice, we have examined differential leukocyte recruitment. These studies have identified key chemokines involved in the accumulation of specific subsets of cells and the induction of airway hyperreactivity. In this study we have examined three C-C family chemokines, MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, and RANTES, which promote mononuclear cell- and eosinophil-specific recruitment to the airway. The in vivo neutralization of either MIP-1alpha or RANTES, but not MCP-1, significantly reduced the intensity of the eosinophil recruitment to the lung and airway during the allergic airway response by >50 and >60%, respectively. In contrast, neutralization of MCP-1 significantly reduced total leukocyte migration (>50% reduction), whereas neutralization of RANTES and MIP-1alpha had no significant affect on the overall leukocyte migration. Further examination of the effect of MCP-1 depletion indicated that both CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subsets were decreased. Depletion of MCP-1 significantly reduced the airway hyperreactivity to near control levels, whereas depletion of MIP-1alpha or RANTES did not affect the intensity of airway hyperreactivity. These data indicate that multiple C-C chemokines are involved in the recruitment of particular leukocyte populations and that neutralization of MCP-1, but not RANTES or MIP-1alpha, significantly reduced airway hyperreactivity.

C-C chemokines differentially alter interleukin-4 production from lymphocytes

The expression of cytokines can dictate the intensity, chronicity, and type of immune/inflammatory response that is produced. These events may be regulated by accumulation of particular cell populations at a site of immune response that can be regulated by the expression of specific chemokines. Recent data have indicated that chemokines also have direct effects on cellular activation. In particular, T lymphocyte responses have been divided into two distinct phenotypes, designated by TH1- and TH2-type cytokine expression. Although it is recognized that divergent T-lymphocyte-derived cytokine phenotypes exist, the mechanisms that dictate the expression of these cytokines and ultimately the division of these immune responses is not entirely clear. In the present study, we present data that the C-C chemokine family members may be a factor influencing the direction of T-cell-derived lymphokine production. To elucidate the role of C-C chemokines, MIP-1 alpha and MCP-1, we have used both antigen-specific (schistosomal egg antigen (SEA)) and nonspecific (conconavalin (Con) A) stimuli. Using TH2-type lymphocyte populations from SEA-sensitized mice, a significant increase in IL-4 mRNA expression and protein production was observed when MCP-1 was added to the culture. Conversely, MIP-1 alpha treatment appeared to decrease interleukin (IL)-4 production. Interestingly, the proliferative response in the TH2-type (SEA-specific) response was up-regulated by MIP-1 alpha whereas MCP-1 down-regulated the response, inversely correlating with IL-4 production. Primary stimulation of naive lymphocytes with Con A induces a predominant interferon (IFN)-gamma response, whereas the second stimulation of the same lymphocytes with Con A induces both IFN-gamma and IL-4. When the two C-C chemokines were individually co-incubated with Con-A-stimulated lymphocytes, both up-regulated IFN-gamma production and proliferation during the primary stimulation. Similarly, in the secondary response, both chemokines further upregulated IFN-gamma production; however, only MCP-1 co-stimulation increased IL-4 production, whereas MIP-1 alpha significantly decreased IL-4 production in these same cell populations. These results were also reflected in steady-state levels of mRNA expression. These results suggest that the production of C-C chemokines (MCP-1 or MIP-1 alpha) during an immune response may aid in determining the type of cytokines produced and the level of lymphocyte activation during a particular response.

Binding mode of [ruthenium(II) (1,10-phenanthroline)2L]2+ with poly (dT*dA-dT) triplex. Ligand size effect on third-strand stabilization

The binding of homochiral [Ru(II)(1,10-phenanthroline)2L]2+ complexes [where [L = 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (DPPZ) or benzodipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (BDPPZ)] to poly(dT*dA-dT) triplex has been investigated by linear and circular dichroism and thermal denaturation. Analysis of the linear dichroism spectra indicates that the extended DPPZ and BDPPZ ligands lie approximately parallel to the base-pair and base-triplet planes consistent with intercalation which is also supported by strong hypochromism in the interligand absorption bands with either duplex or triplex. The spectral properties of any of the metal complex enantiomers were similar for binding to either duplex or triplex DNA, indicating that the third strand, which occupies the major groove of the template duplex, has little effect on the binding geometries and hence supports the hypothesis that the metal complexes all bind from the minor groove with the DPPZ and BDPPZ ligands intercalated but without intercalation in the case of [Ru(phen)3]2+. Third-strand stabilization depended on the nature of the third substituted phenanthroline chelate ligand but was not directly related to its size, with stabilizing power increasing in the order phen < BDPPZ < DPPZ. This observation further supports intercalation of the extended ligands from the minor groove of the triplex since the extended BDPPZ ligand that would protrude into the major groove of the template would have greater steric interference than DPPZ with the third DNA strand.

Role of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in Th1 (mycobacterial) and Th2 (schistosomal) antigen-induced granuloma formation: relationship to local inflammation, Th cell expression, and IL-12 production

The present study examined the contribution of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) to granulomatous inflammation mediated by Th1- and Th2-related cytokines. Types 1 and 2 lung granulomas (GR) were respectively induced in presensitized CBA mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative of Mycobacteria tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs. MCP-1 was spontaneously produced by intact GR, isolated GR macrophages, and draining lymph node cultures, but levels were greater in the type 2 than in the type 1 response. In vivo depletion of IFN-gamma augmented type 2 inflammation and local MCP production; IL-4 depletion had the opposite effect. These treatments had no significant effect on the type 1 response. Treatment with anti-MCP-1, but not that with anti-MIP-1alpha, Abs caused a 30% decrease in type 2 GR area. Neither treatment affected the type 1 GR. Intrinsic MCP-1 was detected immunohistochemically within lymph nodes and appeared to support IL-4-/IL-5-producing lymph node cells. In addition, MCP-1 inhibited IL-12 production by inflammatory macrophages. The latter was demonstrated as a potentially direct effect of MCP-1 on macrophages. These findings show that MCP-1 contributes more to type 2 than to type 1 cytokine-mediated inflammation and suggest a broader role for chemokines in regulating Th cell expression.

Role of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in Th1 (mycobacterial) and Th2 (schistosomal) antigen-induced granuloma formation: relationship to local inflammation, Th cell expression, and IL-12 production

The present study examined the contribution of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) to granulomatous inflammation mediated by Th1- and Th2-related cytokines. Types 1 and 2 lung granulomas (GR) were respectively induced in presensitized CBA mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative of Mycobacteria tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs. MCP-1 was spontaneously produced by intact GR, isolated GR macrophages, and draining lymph node cultures, but levels were greater in the type 2 than in the type 1 response. In vivo depletion of IFN-gamma augmented type 2 inflammation and local MCP production; IL-4 depletion had the opposite effect. These treatments had no significant effect on the type 1 response. Treatment with anti-MCP-1, but not that with anti-MIP-1alpha, Abs caused a 30% decrease in type 2 GR area. Neither treatment affected the type 1 GR. Intrinsic MCP-1 was detected immunohistochemically within lymph nodes and appeared to support IL-4-/IL-5-producing lymph node cells. In addition, MCP-1 inhibited IL-12 production by inflammatory macrophages. The latter was demonstrated as a potentially direct effect of MCP-1 on macrophages. These findings show that MCP-1 contributes more to type 2 than to type 1 cytokine-mediated inflammation and suggest a broader role for chemokines in regulating Th cell expression.

In vivo regulation of macrophage IL-12 production during type 1 and type 2 cytokine-mediated granuloma formation

IL-12 is a pivitol cytokine that promotes NK cell activity and Th1 (type 1)-mediated immune responses. This study analyzed the cytokines that regulate macrophage (M phi) IL-12 production in vitro and in vivo. IL-12 was produced by elicited but not resident peritoneal M phi stimulated with endotoxin. Addition of graded doses of cytokines (0.1 to 10 ng/ml) indicated that the Th1-related (type 1) cytokine, IFN-gamma, augmented endotoxin-stimulated IL-12 production by nearly sixfold in oil-elicited M phi. TNF-alpha also increased production but only at the 10 ng/ml concentration. In contrast, the Th2-related (type 2) cytokines, IL-4 and especially IL-10, were profoundly inhibitory. IL-1 beta and IL-2 had no effect. For in vivo analysis, type 1 and type 2 cytokine-mediated lung granulomas (GR) were induced in presensitized mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative of Mycobacteria tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs. Analysis of M phi isolated from type 1, type 2, or control pulmonary GR revealed that M phi of type 2 GR develop impaired IL-12-producing capacity. Depletion studies using anti-IFN, anti-IL-12, anti-IL-10, and anti-IL-4 neutralizing polyclonal Abs corroborated the in vitro studies. Anti-IFN or anti-IL-12 reduced IL-12 production by M phi from type 1 GR (70 to 80%) as well as IFN and IL-12 production by draining lymph nodes (75 to 90%). Conversely, anti-IL-10 and anti-IL-4 reversed the impaired IL-12 production observed in type 2 GR M phi. These data indicate a positive feedback stimulation of IL-12 production by IFN that is regulated by IL-10 and IL-4 in vivo.

In vivo regulation of macrophage IL-12 production during type 1 and type 2 cytokine-mediated granuloma formation

IL-12 is a pivitol cytokine that promotes NK cell activity and Th1 (type 1)-mediated immune responses. This study analyzed the cytokines that regulate macrophage (M phi) IL-12 production in vitro and in vivo. IL-12 was produced by elicited but not resident peritoneal M phi stimulated with endotoxin. Addition of graded doses of cytokines (0.1 to 10 ng/ml) indicated that the Th1-related (type 1) cytokine, IFN-gamma, augmented endotoxin-stimulated IL-12 production by nearly sixfold in oil-elicited M phi. TNF-alpha also increased production but only at the 10 ng/ml concentration. In contrast, the Th2-related (type 2) cytokines, IL-4 and especially IL-10, were profoundly inhibitory. IL-1 beta and IL-2 had no effect. For in vivo analysis, type 1 and type 2 cytokine-mediated lung granulomas (GR) were induced in presensitized mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative of Mycobacteria tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs. Analysis of M phi isolated from type 1, type 2, or control pulmonary GR revealed that M phi of type 2 GR develop impaired IL-12-producing capacity. Depletion studies using anti-IFN, anti-IL-12, anti-IL-10, and anti-IL-4 neutralizing polyclonal Abs corroborated the in vitro studies. Anti-IFN or anti-IL-12 reduced IL-12 production by M phi from type 1 GR (70 to 80%) as well as IFN and IL-12 production by draining lymph nodes (75 to 90%). Conversely, anti-IL-10 and anti-IL-4 reversed the impaired IL-12 production observed in type 2 GR M phi. These data indicate a positive feedback stimulation of IL-12 production by IFN that is regulated by IL-10 and IL-4 in vivo.

Cytokine function during mycobacterial and schistosomal antigen-induced pulmonary granuloma formation. Local and regional participation of IFN-gamma, IL-10, and TNF

Pulmonary granulomas (GR) with type 1 or type 2 cytokine involvement were induced in presensitized CBA mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative (PPD) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs (SEA). Using neutralizing Abs against IFN-gamma, IL-10, and TNF-alpha/beta, we examined effects on GR size, GR macrophage function, and regional lymph node (LN) responses. Profoundly different effects were observed in the two models. Anti-IFN decreased PPD-GR size by 20%, but augmented SEA GR by nearly 50%. Anti-TNF abrogated PPD-GR area by 40% and SEA GR by 15% suggesting that TNF contributed more to the former. Anti-IL-10 did not affect GR sizes. Analysis of TNF indicated that IFN was required for maximum production by both PPD GR and SEA GR macrophages. Interestingly, TNF tempered its own expression by SEA GR macrophages. In LN, PPD GR and SEA GR formation was associated with T cell-dependent type 1 (IFN and IL-2) and type 2 (IL-10 and IL-4) cytokine profiles, respectively. In PPD LN, anti-IFN decreased IFN and IL-2 production by 50%. In contrast, anti-IL-10 increased IFN and IL-2 production by two- to fourfold, indicating that IFN and IL-10 had opposing effects on the type 1 response. In SEA LN, anti-IFN decreased IFN production but augmented IL-4 and IL-10 production by 50 and 90%, respectively, supporting the notion that IFN constrains Th2 responses. Conversely, IL-10 promoted the Th2 response. Surprisingly, anti-TNF reduced IL-4 and IL-10 in SEA LN but did not affect PPD LN, suggesting that TNF-alpha or -beta supports Th2 differentiation in LN during the secondary response to schistosomal Ags.

Cytokine function during mycobacterial and schistosomal antigen-induced pulmonary granuloma formation. Local and regional participation of IFN-gamma, IL-10, and TNF

Pulmonary granulomas (GR) with type 1 or type 2 cytokine involvement were induced in presensitized CBA mice by embolization of beads coupled to purified protein derivative (PPD) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis or soluble Ags derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs (SEA). Using neutralizing Abs against IFN-gamma, IL-10, and TNF-alpha/beta, we examined effects on GR size, GR macrophage function, and regional lymph node (LN) responses. Profoundly different effects were observed in the two models. Anti-IFN decreased PPD-GR size by 20%, but augmented SEA GR by nearly 50%. Anti-TNF abrogated PPD-GR area by 40% and SEA GR by 15% suggesting that TNF contributed more to the former. Anti-IL-10 did not affect GR sizes. Analysis of TNF indicated that IFN was required for maximum production by both PPD GR and SEA GR macrophages. Interestingly, TNF tempered its own expression by SEA GR macrophages. In LN, PPD GR and SEA GR formation was associated with T cell-dependent type 1 (IFN and IL-2) and type 2 (IL-10 and IL-4) cytokine profiles, respectively. In PPD LN, anti-IFN decreased IFN and IL-2 production by 50%. In contrast, anti-IL-10 increased IFN and IL-2 production by two- to fourfold, indicating that IFN and IL-10 had opposing effects on the type 1 response. In SEA LN, anti-IFN decreased IFN production but augmented IL-4 and IL-10 production by 50 and 90%, respectively, supporting the notion that IFN constrains Th2 responses. Conversely, IL-10 promoted the Th2 response. Surprisingly, anti-TNF reduced IL-4 and IL-10 in SEA LN but did not affect PPD LN, suggesting that TNF-alpha or -beta supports Th2 differentiation in LN during the secondary response to schistosomal Ags.

Production and function of murine macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha in bleomycin-induced lung injury

We investigated the role of macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1 alpha) in bleomycin-induced lung injury, a model of interstitial lung disease. Bleomycin stimulates a T cell-dependent pulmonary inflammatory response characterized by an increase in leukocyte infiltration, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen synthesis. Intratracheal challenge of CBA/J mice with bleomycin resulted in a significant time-dependent increase in MIP-1 alpha protein levels both in whole-lung homogenates and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The kinetics of MIP-1 alpha expression were biphasic, with the first peak occurring at 2 days postinstillation and the second peak at 16 days. These levels of Ag expression temporally correlated with the accumulation of granulocytes, lymphocytes, and mononuclear phagocytes in the lung. In addition, immunohistochemical staining identified alveolar macrophages and bronchial epithelial cells as the primary cellular sources of MIP-1 alpha production. Interestingly, passive immunization of bleomycin-challenged mice with anti-MIP-1 alpha Abs significantly reduced pulmonary mononuclear phagocyte accumulation and fibrosis. These experiments establish that MIP-1 alpha protein is expressed in the lungs of bleomycin-treated mice and provide evidence that MIP-1 alpha promotes leukocyte accumulation and activation. Furthermore, these findings support the notion that leukocyte accumulation and activation are linked to fibrosis.

Production and function of murine macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha in bleomycin-induced lung injury

We investigated the role of macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1 alpha) in bleomycin-induced lung injury, a model of interstitial lung disease. Bleomycin stimulates a T cell-dependent pulmonary inflammatory response characterized by an increase in leukocyte infiltration, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen synthesis. Intratracheal challenge of CBA/J mice with bleomycin resulted in a significant time-dependent increase in MIP-1 alpha protein levels both in whole-lung homogenates and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The kinetics of MIP-1 alpha expression were biphasic, with the first peak occurring at 2 days postinstillation and the second peak at 16 days. These levels of Ag expression temporally correlated with the accumulation of granulocytes, lymphocytes, and mononuclear phagocytes in the lung. In addition, immunohistochemical staining identified alveolar macrophages and bronchial epithelial cells as the primary cellular sources of MIP-1 alpha production. Interestingly, passive immunization of bleomycin-challenged mice with anti-MIP-1 alpha Abs significantly reduced pulmonary mononuclear phagocyte accumulation and fibrosis. These experiments establish that MIP-1 alpha protein is expressed in the lungs of bleomycin-treated mice and provide evidence that MIP-1 alpha promotes leukocyte accumulation and activation. Furthermore, these findings support the notion that leukocyte accumulation and activation are linked to fibrosis.

Cytokine responses during mycobacterial and schistosomal antigen-induced pulmonary granuloma formation. Production of Th1 and Th2 cytokines and relative contribution of tumor necrosis factor

Synchronized pulmonary granulomas (GRs) were induced in presensitized mice by intravenous embolization of polymer beads bound with purified protein derivative (PPD) of Mycobacteria tuberculosis or soluble antigens derived from Schistosoma mansoni eggs (SEA). Uncoated beads served as a foreign body control (CON). Antigen-coated beads elicited GRs with characteristic epithelioid macrophages and multinucleate giant cells by 4 days after embolization. Unlike PPD GR, SEA bead lesions contained eosinophils, whereas CON beads elicited only a limited mononuclear infiltrate. GRs and draining lymph nodes (LN) were assessed on days 2, 4, and 8 for Th1-(interleukin-2 [IL-2], interferon-gamma[IFN] and Th2-type (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10) cytokines. CON GR produced only a small amount of IFN-gamma on day 2 and failed to induce a significant response in draining LN. In contrast, both PPD and SEA antigen-coated beads induced reactive lymphoid hyperplasia but differed greatly in local and regional cytokine profiles. PPD GR produced IFN-gamma on day 2 and the draining LN produced predominantly Th1 cytokines on days 2 and 4. In contrast, SEA beads GRs were dominated by Th2 cytokines. The corresponding LN produced IL-2 and IL-4 on day 2; IL-2, IL-4, IFN-gamma, and IL-10 on day 4; then IL-2, IFN-gamma, and IL-4 on day 8, probably reflecting maturational changes of T cells. Macrophages (MP) from bead GR also showed different patterns of IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production. Compared with CON GR, MPs from PPD GR were weak sources of IL-6, whereas those of SEA GR showed enhanced and accelerated production. In contrast, MP of PPD GR had augmented TNF-producing capacity, whereas those of SEA GR showed delayed TNF production. In vivo depletion of TNF, respectively, caused 40 and 10% decreases in PPD GR and SEA GR but had no effect on CON GR area, indicating that TNF contributed to a greater degree to the PPD response. These data show that depending on the inciting agent, GR can be mediated by different cytokines. Characterization of inflammatory lesions by cytokine profiles should allow design of more rational therapeutic interventions.

Lumbar vertebral and femoral neck bone mineral density are higher in postmenopausal women with the alpha 2HS-glycoprotein 2 phenotype

alpha 2HS-glycoprotein (AHSG) is a plasma protein which becomes concentrated in the organic matrix of bone. The two most common alleles, AHSG*1 and AHSG*2, give rise to three common phenotypes. A recent report showed that a group of postmenopausal white North American women with different AHSG phenotypes differed significantly with respect to their oestrogen status. We have studied variations in bone mineral density, measured by DEXA, and levels of sex hormones and biochemical markers of bone metabolism in a group of 88 post-menopausal women unselected as to their health status. Lumbar vertebral and femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD), and the free oestradiol index were all significantly higher (P < 0.05) in women with the AHSG 2 phenotype. Values of these three parameters were lowest in the AHSG 1 phenotype and intermediate in the AHSG 2-1 phenotype. Because the differences in BMD between the AHSG 2 and 1 phenotypes represent at least a 40% difference in fracture risk, the AHSG phenotype may be of some clinical relevance as a risk factor for osteoporosis.

Asthma in children--an interactive home care approach

Asthma is the most common reason for children to require the services of a home care agency. One agency has developed a preventive and interventive pediatric asthma program to standardize the care provided to their pediatric asthma patients.

Binding of DAPI analogue 2,5-bis(4-amidinophenyl)furan to DNA

The binding of 2,5-bis(4-amidinophenyl)furan (APF) to calf thymus DNA, [poly(dA-dT)]2, and [poly(dG-dC)]2 has been studied with flow linear dichroism and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The electronic excited states of the APF chromophore were first characterized using experimental and quantum mechanical methods: it is shown that the low-energy absorption band (320-400 nm) originates from only a single electronic transition which is polarized along the long axis of the molecule, information that is crucial for the structural interpretation of the linear and circular dichroism spectra of the APF-DNA complexes. By contrast, in the unsymmetric analogue 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) two overlapping transitions, with somewhat divergent polarizations, both contribute to the first absorption band. Upon binding to DNA the spectroscopic behavior of APF strongly resembles that of DAPI. The linear dichroism data show that the drug binds to calf thymus DNA and [poly(dA-dT)]2 with an angle of 46 degrees +/- 2 degrees between its symmetry long axis and the DNA helix axis, confirming that APF, just like DAPI, is an AT-specific minor-groove binder. Upon binding to [poly(dG-dC)]2, however, the orientation of the long axis is parallel with the plane of the DNA bases, a geometry which excludes binding parallel to the grooves but could be consistent with intercalation. However, a short axis polarized transition is strongly inclined to the base plane and, furthermore, the persistence length of the polynucleotide is markedly reduced, observations that contradict classical intercalation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

HIV infection in women. Implications for nursing practice

Much remains to be explained regarding women with HIV infection or AIDS. Interest in determining whether the natural history of the disease or the clinical manifestations are gender specific is leading to more research focused on women. The female roles of childbearer and caretaker evoke ethical issues that are unique to this epidemic and that can impact on the development and delivery of health care services. Women at the greatest risk for HIV disease are not likely to form coalitions to advocate for services, research dollars, and education. They need advocates and assistance in becoming united to advocate for themselves. Nurses have a critical role in the provision of services to women with HIV disease. As educators, direct service providers, and administrators, nurses contribute to the development of services that are holistic and family centered. As advocates, nurses can ensure that women are accurately and well informed about the disease and the resources available to them. Because AIDS no longer affects only those persons living in large metropolitan areas, it is imperative that all nurses become experts in the care of women with AIDS and advocates for a better outcome.

Conformation of thiocolchicine and two B-ring-modified analogues bound to tubulin studied with optical spectroscopy

The interaction of tubulin with thiocolchicine and two thiocolchicine analogues, one lacking the B ring and one with a six-membered B ring, has been studied by using near-UV and CD spectroscopies. Rapid, reversible binding of the latter analogue to tubulin demonstrates the ability of the colchicine binding site to accommodate the phenyltropone system with a more coplanar conformation than is present in free colchicine. There is no evidence, however, that bound thiocolchicine should have a much less twisted conformation than free thiocolchicine. Thiocolchicine and the bicyclic analogue appear to have approximately the same conformation of the phenyltropone system, in both the free and the bound states, suggesting that this conformation has an optimal arrangement of the phenyl and tropone rings for binding to tubulin. In contrast to colchicine and related derivatives, the three thiocolchicine analogues show pronounced near-UV CD bands upon association to tubulin. No simple relation could be found between the sign pattern of the CD components in the near-UV band of the thiocolchicinoid chromophore and its axial chirality.

Can dietitians be of value to GPs?

A dietitian is a highly trained health care professional, competent to practise in both clinical and community health settings. This article details the training of the dietitian, the types of dietitians available, the services they offer and the range of conditions in which their input is valuable.

Dynamics of dibutyryl cyclic AMP- and prostaglandin E2-mediated suppression of lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha gene expression

The regulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) production by prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), forskolin, and dibutyryl cyclic AMP (cAMP) was examined at the cellular and molecular levels. The above three agents could suppress LPS (100 ng/ml)-stimulated TNF production by immunologically activated murine macrophages (M phi s) in a dose-dependent manner. The concomitant addition of PGE2, dibutyryl cAMP, or forskolin to LPS-challenged M phi s resulted in 50% inhibition of TNF production at 10(-7), 3 X 10(-6), and 3 X 10(-5) M, respectively. Interestingly, delaying the addition of PGE2 or dibutyryl cAMP by 1.5 h post-LPS stimulation was also effective in suppressing the production of TNF bioactivity, but only dibutyryl cAMP was effective when its addition was delayed by 3 h. Northern (RNA) blot analysis of mRNA isolated from LPS-challenged M phi s treated with PGE2 or dibutyryl cAMP corroborated the bioactivity data. The delayed addition of PGE2 or dibutyryl cAMP by 1.5 h post-LPS stimulation resulted in a suppression of TNF mRNA accumulation by 50 to 70%. These data support the concept that LPS is a potent stimulus for M phi-derived TNF production and that this mediator is a very proximal signal in LPS-mediated disease states. Thus, therapeutic approaches that target the suppression of TNF in LPS-dependent disease states may be limited by the rapid expression of this mediator.

Binding to tubulin of an allocolchicine spin probe: interaction with the essential SH groups and other active sites

EPR titration of tubulin with an allocolchicine spin probe showed more than one binding site: one high-affinity binding site (Kd = 8 microM), consistent with the Ki found for competition with colchicine, and one or more low-affinity site(s) (Kd higher than 50 microM). No disturbance of the EPR signal of the tubulin-bound allocolchicine spin probe could be observed at room temperature in the presence of other paramagnetic probes: Mn(II) for the binding site of Mg(II), Co(II) for the Zn(II) binding site and Cr(III)GTP for the binding site of the exchangeable GTP. Labelling of tubulin with both the allocolchicine and a SH-group spin probe also showed lack of interaction. The colchicine-binding site is thus sterically isolated from the binding sites for GTP, Mg(II), Zn(II) and the two essential SH-groups. In the tubulin-colchicin complex, all SH-groups could still be labelled with an excess of the SH-reagent, N-ethylmaleimide. Furthermore, colchicine binding was only minimally influenced by the blocking of the two essential SH-groups. However, the rate constant of the reaction of two equivalents of the SH-reagent, a maleimide spin probe, with the tubulin-colchicine complex was only 50% of the rate constant found with uncomplexed tubulin. As direct steric interaction of the essential SH-groups with the colchicine-binding site can be excluded, we can now definitively decide that binding of colchicine to tubulin induces a conformational change, which affects the accessibility of the most reactive SH-groups.

The efflux of spin label entrapped in human erythrocyte ghosts when suspended in hyposmolar solutions. The effect of chlorpromazine, trifluoperazine, nicardipine and some other membrane active substances

Human erythrocyte ghosts were loaded with the spin label tempocholine . Once entrapped in the ghosts, this spin label, carrying a positive charge, is not able to penetrate through intact ghost membranes. The ghosts were loaded with spin label to a concentration high enough to introduce exchange broadening of the electron spin resonance (ESR) signal with a relatively small signal amplitude. The efflux of the spin label brought about by hyposmolar stress was studied. The appearance of the label in the relatively large external volume gave rise to an increase of the ESR signal amplitude since the concentration of the spin label outside the ghosts was in the range in which exchange broadening can be excluded. The duration of the efflux following hyposmolar stress was less than half a minute. After this time, the ghosts resealed spontaneously and without restoration of the normal osmolarity. A number of membrane active substances were studied for possible influence on the efflux of spin label induced by hyposmolar stress. The drug substances chlorpromazine, trifluoperazine and nicardipine were found to increase the hyposmolar efflux of spin label. It was suggested that these substances, classified as calcium-antagonists and inhibitors of the calmodulin system, exert their action on the efflux of spin label by interaction with membrane proteins which maintain shape and tension of the erythrocytes.

Synthesis and binding to tubulin of an allocolchicine spin probe

A spin probe for the colchicine binding site on tubulin has been synthesized from allocolchicine. The probe is competitive to colchicine with an apparent inhibition constant of 11 microM while allocolchicine has an inhibition constant of 2 microM. Microtubule assembly is inhibited to 50% by 7 microM of the spin probe. As a mitotic poison the spin probe is less potent than colchicine. These data suggest that the probe binds to the same site on tubulin as colchicine and in spite of the somewhat lower efficiency, it seems to be a valuable tool for the study of the microtubule system.