Mapping the functional surface of insulin by design: structure and function of a novel A-chain analogue

Functional surfaces of a protein are often mapped by combination of X-ray crystallography and mutagenesis. Such studies of insulin have yielded paradoxical results, suggesting that the native state is inactive and reorganizes on receptor binding. Of particular interest is the N-terminal alpha-helix of the A-chain. Does this segment function as an alpha-helix or reorganize as recently proposed in a prohormone-convertase complex? To correlate structure and function, we describe a mapping strategy based on protein design. The solution structure of an engineered monomer ([AspB10, LysB28, ProB29]-human insulin) is determined at neutral pH as a template for synthesis of a novel A-chain analogue. Designed by analogy to a protein-folding intermediate, the analogue lacks the A6-A11 disulphide bridge; the cysteine residues are replaced by serine. Its solution structure is remarkable for segmental unfolding of the N-terminal A-chain alpha-helix (A1 to A8) in an otherwise native subdomain. The structure demonstrates that the overall orientation of the A and B chains is consistent with reorganization of the A-chain's N-terminal segment. Nevertheless, the analogue's low biological activity suggests that this segment, a site of clinical mutation causing diabetes mellitus, functions as a preformed recognition alpha-helix.

Effects of amphetamine on human nasal mucosa

The present study was devised to determine the effects of amphetamine on the sympathetic function of human nasal mucosa. A tissue bath method was employed on the vitro preparations of nasal turbinate mucosa from adult patients with nasal allergies or hypertrophic rhinitis. The effects of amphetamine on the contractile response of isolated human nasal mucosal blood vessels were investigated following electrical field stimulation and methoxamine. The results showed that amphetamine inhibited field stimulation and antagonized the effects on mucosal contraction induced by methoxamine. Likewise, the drug increased mucosal basal tension but had local drug toxicity when a 10(-4) M solution was used. Amphetamine could potentiate mucosal contraction induced by norepinephrine or epinephrine. The study indicated that amphetamine may increase sympathetic function by potentiating the effect of norepinephrine and that high concentration of amphetamine may actually antagonize alpha-adrenoceptors.

Structure and expression of metallothionein gene in ducks

Metallothionein (MT) cDNAs were cloned and sequenced from two genera of ducks, Muscovy (Cairina muschata) and Tsai ya (Anas platyrhynchos). The two cDNAs show an extremely high sequence homology and contain an open reading frame encoding 63 amino acids. MT mRNA expressions were studied after metal induction using the cloned cDNA as a probe. Cadmium and copper induced MT gene efficiently, whereas zinc showed a markedly less effect. In addition, the MT mRNA accumulations in various developmental stages were also investigated. The result reveals a different pattern of expression from that of mammals. The discrepancy in MT gene between Tsai ya and Muscovy was further explored by examining genomic DNA structures. The duck MT showed three exons and two introns. The most significant variation of the genes occurs at intron II in which Tsai ya MT has 24 bases more than Muscovy MT. Moreover, MT expressions in the hybrids of Muscovy and Tsai ya were investigated using a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Those results demonstrated that parental MT genes are expressed in the hybrids after metal induction.

Identification and characterization of metallothionein III (growth inhibitory factor) from porcine brain

Porcine metallothionein III (MTIII) was isolated from brain tissue by the combination of gel filtration and anion-exchange chromatographies. The identity of MTIII was confirmed by comparing the chromatographic characteristics to other MT isoforms isolated from porcine liver. Porcine MTIII has a low molecular weight and a pl of 4.1. This protein contains both zinc and copper, and the zinc can be replaced by cadmium. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, a 0.2 kb DNA fragment can be amplified from the porcine brain mRNA. This DNA fragment was demonstrated to contain MTIII coding region after cloning and sequencing. The revealed DNA sequence can be translated into 68 amino acids and shows a common structural characteristic of MTIII from other species. Northern blot analysis indicated that MTIII and mRNA is expressed in every specified region of the porcine brain examined here.

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) gene polymorphism and expression in pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is an endothelial disorder and TNF-alpha has fundamental effects on endothelial cells by several means, including altering the balance between oxidant and anti-oxidant, changing the pattern of prostaglandin production and affecting expression of several cell surface components. To determine whether TNF-alpha mRNA expression is increased in pre-eclamptic patients, leucocytes from pre-eclamptic patients, normal pregnant women and normal non-pregnant women were studied for TNF-alpha expression using a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. Using a model of 373A ABI Sequencer, TNF-alpha gene polymorphism was also analysed by GENESCAN and Genotyper software in order to explain the mechanism of abnormal TNF-alpha expression. Our results show that TNF-alpha mRNA expression is significantly elevated in pre-eclamptic patients compared with the other two control groups. The high expression of TNF-alpha may be associated with the TNF1 allele, whose frequency is markedly increased in pre-eclamptic patients. These observations are consistent with a major role for TNF-alpha in mediating endothelial disturbances, and suggest a key role for TNF-alpha in the development of pre-eclampsia.

Some considerations on the measurements of mean frequency shift and integrated backscatter following administration of Albunex

Ultrasonic contrast agents have been of heightened interest in recent years. More success has been achieved by agents consisting of micro bubbles, since only a few of these agents are capable of producing very strong ultrasonic backscattered signals for the enhancement of certain tissue structures. Recent investigations also demonstrate that an analysis of the radio frequency (RF) backscattered echoes by the contrast agents may lead to quantitative means for assessing tissue perfusion. In these studies, a parameter, mean frequency shift (MFS) of the RF signal, along with integrated backscatter (IB) has received the most attention. In an effort to better understand the physical mechanisms responsible for the observed mean frequency shift, we have performed experiments on 10 dogs following injections of Albunex (Molecular Biosystems, Inc.) into the left atrium, coronary artery and abdominal aorta, respectively, for investigations in the heart and kidney. The integrated backscatter and mean frequency (MF) of a region of interest (ROI) were calculated from the RF signal acquired with a modified real-time ultrasonic scanner. The results show consistently that the RF signals acquired from all regions of interest are greatly affected by the presence of the contrast agent in the path between the transducer and the ROI, which can cause either an upward or a downward shift of the MF. This could not be observed by video densitometry or a measurement of the IB alone. The MFS is the result of the resonant behavior of the micro bubbles, which is related to the frequency, ambient pressure, and physical properties of the bubbles including size distribution, surface tension and concentration. On the other hand, when there is no contrast agent present in the path, a downward frequency shift is seen.

Initiation of the transgenic lacZ gene expression in medaka (Oryzias latipes) embryos

In total, 4165 medaka (Oryzias latipes) oocytes were injected with three DNA constructs separately, and results showed that exogenous lacZ expression was transient and stage-dependent. The initiation of the transgene expression was at the mid-blastula stage for embryos derived from oocytes injected with pmiwZ, containing the long terminal repeat (LTR) of the Rous sarcoma virus, and with pCAGGS-lacZ, containing the enhancer and promoter of the immediate early gene of the human cytomegalovirus, respectively, whereas embryos derived from oocytes injected with pMoZtk, containing the LTR of the Moloney murine leukemia virus, started expression at the late-blastula stage. These reveal that the earliest onset of the exogenous lacZ gene should be by the mid-blastula stage. Therefore the mid-blastula transition phenomenon in embryogenesis known in other animal species exists in medaka embryos.

[Treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome with balloon dilatation and intraluminal stent]

We treated 33 cases of Budd-Chiari syndrome caused by localized occlusive lesions of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with balloon dilatation and stent deployment. Of the 33, 21 were male and 12 female. Complete "membranous" occlusion was found in 18, incomplete "membrane" in 6, and localized stenosis in 9. Seven cases recurred after transcardiac and membranotomy or cavoatial shunt or mesoatial shunt. Pure stent deployment was carried out in 24 cases, combined transcardiac and transfemoral approaches were used in 6, stent was placed during radical correction of IVC lesions in 3. Unrelieved intractable ascites were 5 cases because of hepatic venous occlusion or secondary cirrhosis, 3 of them were resolved by mesocaval anastomosis. The IVC pressures before and after stenting were 2.70 +/- 0.69kPa (1kPa = 0.98cmH2O) and 1.55 +/- 0.50kPa (P < 0.01) respectively. All but one (waiting for possible messocaval shunt) had excellent effect 6-23 months following the above mentioned therapy. We conclude that dilation and stenting plus necessary or additional surgery bring about a prosperous means for treating Budd-Chiari syndrome with localized lesions.

[The case-control study of risk factors in primary angle-closure glaucoma]

A case-control study was conducted to determine the risk factors of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). In this study, 103 cases of PACG patients and 95 cases of non-glaucoma controls were investigated. It was found that the risk factors of PACG were family history of glaucoma, irritable temper, short distance between eyes and workplace at work and high blood pressure. The results did not support that cigarette smoking, alcoholic consumption, diabetes mellitus, myopia and blood types were related with PACG.

Effects of double-blind controlled calcium supplementation on calcium absorption in Chinese children measured with stable isotopes (42Ca and 44Ca)

A double-blind controlled Ca supplementation trial was conducted for 6 months in thirty-four 7-year-old Chinese children from Hongkong and Jiangmen, China. The children were randomly allocated to the study group (n 17) or control group (n 17), and a CaCO3 tablet (300 mg Ca) or a placebo tablet was taken daily. True fractional Ca absorption (TFCA) was evaluated before and after the trial using stable isotopes: 8 mg 44Ca mixed in 100 g chocolate milk was given after an intravenous injection of 0.75 mg 42Ca. There was no significant difference in baseline TFCA between the study group (60.6 (SD 11.4)%) and the controls (58.2 (SD 9.0)%; P = 0.55). Serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol levels were comparable between the two groups (P = 0.71). After 6 months, TFCA of the study group (55.6 (SD 12.7)%) was significantly lower than that of the controls (64.3 (SD 10.7)%; P = 0.015). By comparing the individual changes in TFCA after the trial between the two groups there was a non-significant reduction in TFCA (5.03 (SD 12.4)%; P = 0.11, Wilcoxon signed-rank test) in the study group (60.6-55.6%), whereas a significant increase in TFCA (6.17 (SD 7.7)%; P = 0.004, Wilcoxon signed-rank test) was observed in the controls (58.2-64.3%). The differential in TFCA between the two groups after 6 months was significantly different (P = 0.001), and remained significant after adjustment for baseline dietary intakes, weight and height by multiple-regression analysis (P = 0.003). If the mechanism of TFCA from chocolate milk in response to the treatment effects is similar to that from the total diet, then our results suggest that children with adequate vitamin D status can adapt to a change in Ca intake by adjusting the efficiency of TFCA. In corollary, children on habitually-low Ca diets have a higher TFCA than the counterparts with higher Ca diets.

True fractional calcium absorption in Chinese children measured with stable isotopes (42Ca and 44Ca)

True fractional Ca absorption (TFCA) was compared in children with different habitual Ca intakes using a double-label stable-isotope technique. Chinese children aged 7 years from Hongkong (n22) and Jiangmen (n12) participated in the study. An oral administration of 8 mg 44Ca in 100 g chocolate milk was given shortly after an intravenous injection of 0.75 mg 42Ca. Ca isotopic ratios were determined in urine samples collected 24 h later using thermal-ionization mass spectrometry. There was no significant difference in TFCA between Jiangmen and Hongkong children (P = 0.16). TFCA of a lower-Ca-intake group (Ca < or = 500 mg/d, n19) with mean Ca intake 359 mg/d was 63.1 (SD 10.7)% and that of a higher-Ca-intake group (Ca > 500 mg/d, n15) with mean Ca intake 862 mg/d was 54.8 (SD 7.3)%; the difference in TFCA was significant (P = 0.016). Serum levels of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol of the children were adequate (33.7 (SD 7.7) ng/ml). The present study indicates that growing children accustomed to a low-Ca diet appear to be able to enhance their absorptive capacity. If it is assumed that dietary Ca absorption by Chinese children resembles their TFCA from a single meal of chocolate milk, then the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for Ca for Chinese children would be lower than the US RDA (800 mg/d), which is based on an estimated 40% Ca absorption as reported for Caucasian children. A comparative absorption study is necessary to determine whether there is any difference in TFCA between Caucasian and Chinese children.

Double-blind, controlled calcium supplementation and bone mineral accretion in children accustomed to a low-calcium diet

A randomized, double-blind, controlled calcium supplementation trial was conducted for 18 mo to determine its effects on bone acquisition and height increment in 162 7-y-old Chinese children (87 boys and 75 girls) with habitually low calcium intakes (280 mg/d). Distal one-third radial bone mineral content (BMC), area bone density (BMC/bone width), and height were evaluated every 6 mo. Baseline dietary intakes, serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, and physical activity were determined. The study group received 300 mg Ca/d as calcium carbonate; control subjects received placebo tablets. After 18 mo the study group had significantly greater gains in BMC (16.5% vs 13.97%; P = 0.02) and BMC/bone width (9.45% vs 6.31%; P = 0.0008) than the control subjects. The findings confirm a positive effect of calcium intake on bone acquisition but no effect on height increment. Whether a higher bone mass attained at age 8-9 y would be maintained and beneficial to future peak bone mass requires longitudinal investigation. Further study is warranted to determine calcium requirements for Chinese children.

[Management of high risk Budd-Chiari syndrome with mesojugular shunt: report of 16 cases]

Standard procedures to treat Budd-Chiari syndrome caused by localized occlusions of the inferior vena cava and/or hepatic venous occlusion have been established. However, for those caused by long segmental occlusion or constriction accompanying with large amount of ascites, malnutrition, hypoalbumineamia, even pleural effusion, and breathlessness even orthopnea, no proper approaches are available. Hereby we report a new method of mesojugular shunt. Sixteen patients have been treated resulting in excellent result in 53% of patients and fair in 20%. The operative mortality was 13%. We consider mesojugular shunt is a proper means for relieving high risk patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Glutathione increases interleukin-2 production in human lymphocytes

It is known that glutathione (GSH) has an immunological effect on several features of the immune system. The present study investigated the effects of GSH on interleukin-2 (IL-2) production from normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). The results showed that both exogenous GSH and 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) significantly increased intracellular GSH levels after PBL were incubated with both agents. IL-2 production from PBL was markedly increased at the presence of exogenous GSH (0.5-8 mmol/l) or 2-ME (12.5-50 mumol/l) which corresponded to 1.57-2.82 nmol/10(6) cells and 1.41 - 1.80 nmol/10(6) cells of intracellular concentrations of GSH, respectively. However, IL-2 production seemed to reach a steady level when exogenous GSH concentrations in cell culture were between 2 and 8 mmol/l. The findings also showed that there was a positive correlation between the IL-2 concentrations and intracellular GSH levels. This study indicated that both exogenous GSH and 2-ME were able to elevate intracellular GSH levels and the increased intracellular GSH could increase IL-2 production in vitro. It is suggested that GSH may exert its effects on the immune system via the regulation of IL-2 synthesis.

Congenital perforation of the triangular fibrocartilage of the wrist

The triangular fibrocartilages (TFC) of 136 wrist joints from 48 fetuses and 20 infants fresh cadavers without any evidence of known deformity and injury were studied. Perforations of the TFC were found not only in infants (18.8%), but also in fetuses (25%). The difference between the incidences of the perforations in the two groups is not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Furthermore, we did not find that perforation of the TFC is correlated with either sex or side of wrists (P > 0.05). Histologically, the vascularity and cellularity of the TFC have no significant correlation with the absence or presence of perforation in it. We believe that, besides trauma, inflammation and degeneration, some perforations of the TFCs are congenital in origin, which all take the form of fissure and are located mainly in the radial half of the TFC.

Molecular determinants of bioactivity of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae lipopeptide mating pheromone

The a-factor of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (YIIKGVF-WDPAC(Farnesyl)-OCH3) is a peptide pheromone in which post-translational modification with a farnesyl isoprenoid and carboxyl methyl group is required for export and bioactivity. Truncated and carboxyl-terminal modified analogs of the a-factor were synthesized in order to determine the effect of such modifications on bioactivity. Bioactivity studies on carboxyl-terminal analogs in which the chirality, the cysteine thioether, and the carboxyl ester were varied in an attempt to study the influence of topology on a-factor activity indicate that the hydrophobicity conferred by the farnesyl moiety and not its specific spatial orientation is a key determinant of a-factor potency. Analyses on truncated a-factors suggest that sequential removal of NH2-terminal residues leads to a gradient of potency loss, with some amino acids exhibiting a slightly greater contribution to bioactivity than others. Random oligonucleotide-targeted mutagenesis of the gene encoding a-factor was coupled to a biological screen to identify altered a-factor peptides which are secreted yet exhibit a loss of a-factor bioactivity. Transformants exhibiting this phenotype were examined to identify codon changes presumably responsible for the altered phenotype, thus indicating residues that may contribute significantly to a-factor bioactivity.

Partial purification of hydrogenase from Anabaena sp. CH3 with heat treatment

The methylviologen-dependent hydrogenase of Anabaena sp. CH3 is unstable at 4 degrees C and in air. All the purifying procedures were carried out at 25 degrees C and under argon atmosphere. The enzyme was partially purified by the following steps: heat treatment, DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography and gel filtration on TSK-Fractogel. Experimental results indicated that the heat-treatment procedure was beneficial for the separation of the enzyme from phycobiliproteins.

Functional integrity of metallothionein genes in testicular cell lines

The presence and inducibility of the major cadmium (Cd) chelating protein metallothionein (MT) in testicular cells has been controversial. In this study, the induction and production of MT in testicular cells were studied using mouse Leydig and Sertoli cell lines. Metal accumulation was studied by subjecting the cells to increasing levels of Cd. The presence of transcription factors for MT synthesis was analyzed by transfecting the cells with a reporter gene under the control of the MT promoter. The dose- and time-dependent induction of MT were conducted by Northern analyses. Expression of MT genes occurred in both Leydig and Sertoli cells. To avoid cross hybridization of the MT probe with mRNAs encoding testicular metal binding proteins and to investigate the integrity of MT mRNA, isoMT mRNA identification and primer extension experiments were performed. Those studies show that the induced mRNA indeed encodes MT. The biosynthesis of MT was confirmed by following 35S-cysteine incorporation into the protein. Finally, cadmium tolerance of testicular cells is compared with that of fibroblast cells. By these studies, we conclude that the MT genes are functional and inducible in testicular cells.

Pancreatic tuberculosis mimicking pancreatic head carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature

A 24-year-old man presented with vague abdominal fullness and a mild epigastric dull pain for about 3 months was found to have a pancreatic head tumor at a medical center 2 months ago. He came to our hospital for further treatment. Ultrasonography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and abdominal computed tomography (CT) all revealede a pancreatic head tumor. Laparotomy was performed because pancreatic head carcinoma was highly suspected. Indurated mass in the pancreatic head, enlarged lymph nodes and white tubercles on the intestine proved to be tuberculosis on histological examination of a frozen section. Acid fast bacilli were also found. The patient was given antituberculous therapy and is now doing well. To avoid unnecessary laparotomy, CT, echo-guided percutaneous aspiration cytology or biopsy and culture of the tissue for mycobacteria should be done in a patient with pancreatic mass, especially in a region where pulmonary and abdominal tuberculosis are common.

A 5-year evaluation of NORPLANT contraceptive implants in China

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy, safety, and acceptability of NORPLANT implants when used by Chinese women.

METHODS

In a prospective, multicenter clinical trial, 10,718 women selecting NORPLANT implants were monitored semiannually for the first 2 study years and then annually through 5 years. Life table rates of pregnancy and other terminations were calculated, as were incidence rates of serious conditions leading to termination.

RESULTS

The 5-year average annual pregnancy rate was 0.3 per 100 and the ectopic pregnancy rate was minimal, 0.09 per 1000 woman-years. Pregnancy rates correlated significantly with weight, but regardless of weight group, annual average pregnancy rates were less than one per 100. Younger women experienced higher pregnancy rates than did older users. Headache, myoma, dizziness, and weight gain led more frequently to termination than did other adverse events apart from menstrual disturbances. Mortality during use was 2.0 per 10,000 years, based on 44,954 years of experience. There were no cardiovascular or cerebrovascular deaths, and no deaths were attributable to NORPLANT use. Seventy-two per 100 initial acceptors used the implants continuously for 5 years.

CONCLUSION

NORPLANT implants proved highly effective, safe, and acceptable among Chinese women regardless of province, age, or weight at admission.

Chemical synthesis of the M-factor mating pheromone from Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Conjugation in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is controlled by the reciprocal action of mating pheromones. We recently showed that M-factor, the pheromone released by cells of the cellular mating type Minus, is a nonapeptide in which the C-terminal cysteine residue is carboxyl-methylated and S-alkylated, probably with a farnesyl residue (Davey, 1992): Tyr-Thr-Pro-Lys-Val-Pro-Tyr-Met-Cys(S-farnesyl)- OCH3. Here we describe the chemical synthesis of this modified peptide and show that it exhibits all of the properties of the native pheromone. These results confirm the structure of the M-factor while the production of relatively large amounts of pure pheromone will be invaluable for studying the mating response in this yeast.

Consequences of altered isoprenylation targets on a-factor export and bioactivity

Cysteine-containing amino acid sequences (CAAX, CC, and CXC; C is cysteine, A is any aliphatic amino acid, and X is any amino acid) are targets for the attachment of C15 (farnesyl) and C20 (geranylgeranyl) isoprenoids to peptides and proteins by specific prenyltransferases. Although much work has centered on the enzymatic mechanisms of these enzymes, the biological consequences of the differential isoprenylation they catalyze remain to be elucidated. Farnesylation of the a-factor mating pheromone of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a known prerequisite for its biological activity and its secretion through a pathway utilizing the yeast STE6 protein, a homolog of the mammalian multidrug resistance (MDR) P-glycoprotein. We generated specific mutations in the a-factor gene to encode isoprenylation targets for geranylgeranylation [Cys-Val-Ile-Leu (CVIL) and Ser-Val-Cys-Cys (SVCC)] in place of the natural farnesylation motif [Cys-Val-Ile-Ala (CVIA)]. The a-factors containing these modified prenylation sites were successfully exported by a STE6-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, these peptides, as well as synthetic geranylgeranyl a-factor, retained bioactivity. Chromatographic comparisons of synthetic and biosynthetic pheromones suggest that, in vivo, a peptide substrate containing the geranylgeranylation target CVIL can be both farnesylated and geranylgeranylated. These results clearly demonstrate that in vivo (i) different prenyltransferases may recognize the same substrate; (ii) both farnesylated and geranylgeranylated a-factor peptides are substrates for export via STE6, a MDR-like protein; and (iii) farnesylated and geranylgeranylated pheromones are both biologically active.

[Experimental study of peripheral nerve expansion with a tissue expander]

If a peripheral nerve could be elongated by a tissue expander (TE) without apparent damage, the length gained could be used to overcome a nerve gap without recourse to nerve graft. An experimental study was made to investigate whether this method for repairing a nerve gap is feasible. The tissue expander was designed by the authors and the median nerve of rabbits were stretched with TE at the rate of about 1 mm/day. The results showed that when the elongation rate was 18.4%, the motor nerve conduction velocity (MCV) was 67.8% and the myelinated nerve fibres (MNF) was 82.9% of the control nerves. In a further study nerve grafting and nerve expansion for repairing segmental nerve loss were compared with 10 mm defects. 4 months later the MCV, MNF, isometric contraction force (ICF) and muscle wet weight (MWW) were not significantly different between the 2 techniques. But with the 15 mm defects, elongated nerve were inferior to the nerve grafting method.

[The modifications in the evaluation of standard of hand function]

On the basis of the international evaluation of impairment of hand function, we propose five improvements: (1) For the evaluation of the impairment of thumb opposition and adduction, calculating the ratio of two distances takes the place of measuring a pure distance. (2) Hand sensory impairment evaluation is based upon both results of a sensory examination and a two-point discrimination test. (3) On the evaluation of amputation percentages related to whole hand, measuring loss of length is replaced by measuring loss of area. (4) On the evaluation of a joint, we correlated the combined angular measurement with the loss of length. (5) In the international evaluation of impairment of hand function, the sensory or amputation of the palm and back of the hand is not counted. But they are counted in our paper. Besides above-mentioned works, we have made a software with these improvements. You may obtain definite impairment percentages related to whole hand, so long as you input the results of examination of hand function.

Identification of a hyperactive mating pheromone of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The yeast mating pheromone a-factor is a farnesylated peptide [YIIKGVFWDPAC(Farnesyl)-OCH3] involved in the signal transduction cascade which leads to sexual conjugation of haploid cells. We have identified a synthetic analog of the a-factor, [D-Ala5] a-factor, which exhibits 4-6 fold greater biological activity than that of a-factor as judged by two different assay systems. In contrast, [L-Ala5] a-factor has 4-16 fold lower activity than wild-type a-factor. [D-Ala5] a-factor remains susceptible to cleavage by the yeast alpha-cell specific protease a-factorase, thereby ruling out increased activity due to greater stability. This report describes the first example of a hyperactive S. cerevisiae pheromone and may suggest a conformationally preferred form of this lipopeptide ligand.

Role of prenylation in the interaction of the a-factor mating pheromone with phospholipid bilayers

We have studied the interaction between phospholipids and a-factor (YIIKGVFWDPAC-[Farn]OMe), S-alkylated forms of a-factor with the farnesyl group substituted by methyl, hexadecanyl, or benzyl groups, and truncated forms of this lipopeptide. Circular dichroism studies suggest that, despite its lack of farnesylation, S-methyl-a-factor is incorporated into vesicles of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine in a conformation similar to that which a-factor adopts in this membrane. However, studies of the intrinsic fluorescence of the Trp residues of these peptides indicate that this residue is more deeply imbedded into the bilayer in the case of the farnesylated peptide. The a-factor is more effective in raising the bilayer to the hexagonal phase transition temperature of dielaidoylphosphatidylethanolamine than is the S-methyl-a-factor. This bilayer-stabilizing ability is also reflected in a-factor inhibiting leakage from vesicles of N-methyldioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine. Studies on a-factor analogs permit the conclusion that the bilayer-stabilizing effect of a-factor is not solely a consequence of its greater partitioning into the membrane but is also a consequence of the degree of penetration into the bilayer and the specific conformation of the peptide at the membrane interface. These results indicate that the farnesyl group alone, in the absence of cellular factors, bestows a particular physical interaction with membranes.

Effect of endothelin, angiotensin II and ANP on proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes

By means of cell culture, 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) incorporation and c-fos oncogene dot plotting technique, it was found that endothelin (ET) and angiotensin (ANG II) could promote proliferation and DNA synthesis of cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and myocardial cells, and stimulate expression of c-fos oncogene of VSMCs. However, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) antagonizes the above effects of ET and ANG II.

Role of heredity in the genesis of myopia

Previous studies suggest that myopia in parents may influence the genesis of myopia in their offspring. In this study, we surveyed 2888 children of Chinese descent in China and Hong Kong to determine the relationship between the refractive state of parents and their children. The age range of the children was 7-17 years. Refraction was measured using a Canon R-22 objective infrared autorefractor and a survey on family history of ametropia was conducted using a questionnaire. We found that children with myopic parents are more likely to be myopic.

Effects of cocaine on human nasal mucosa

The effects of cocaine on the contractile response of isolated human nasal mucosal blood vessels to field stimulation and methoxamine were investigated. Results showed that cocaine antagonized methoxamine and inhibited field stimulation. The drug increased resting tension in human nasal mucosa in vitro through direct actions and potentiated mucosal contractions by norepinephrine and epinephrine. The study indicated that high concentrations of cocaine may actually antagonize alpha-adrenoceptors, but these concentrations are not necessary in eliciting desired degrees of vasoconstriction in nasal blood vessels while being applied as a local anesthetic.

Spectral analysis of bubble sounds in decompressed guinea pigs

Doppler ultrasonic monitoring was used to detect bubbles in sixteen guinea pigs subjected to a simulated air-dive profile of 9 ATA for 25 minutes. After completion of the decompression, eight subjects did not demonstrate any signs of decompression sickness (DCS), two developed paraplegia and six died. Under sedation, the Doppler ultrasonic bubble detector was placed precordially to record the bubble signals in both pre-dive and post-dive. The recorded signals were analyzed with a high resolution signal analyzer to compare changes between pre-dive and post-dive spectrograms. Bubble signals appeared in the frequency range between 0.64 +/- 0.02 KHz and 6.08 +/- 0.30 KHz. In terms of the net spectral level versus frequency areas (difference between pre-dive and post-dive spectrograms), the mean areas in the paraplegia group and the death group were significantly larger than those in the group without DCS. Therefore, we concluded that the spectral analysis may be an objective and quantitative adjunctive method to the interpretation of Doppler bubble signals.

Subchronic toxicity studies of fenbendazole in rats

The effects of prolonged exposure of rats to fenbendazole were investigated. Fenbendazole was given daily by gavage for 14 consecutive days. These dosages (3000, 500 or 50 mg/kg/d) produced reductions in body weight gains. Renal tubular hyperemia or hemorrhage and glomerular capsule dilation, increased serum creatinine and hepatocellular granular degeneration occurred at dosages of 500 and 3000 mg/kg/d. Renal tubular epithelial cell granular degeneration and tubular dilation, increased serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, cardiac hemorrhage and granular degeneration also occurred at 3000 mg/kg/d.

[Lipid peroxides, antiperoxidase and the progressive course of experimental atherosclerosis]

Rabbits were fed on cholesterol-rich (CHO) diet first for 60 days, and serum cholesterol, serum lipid peroxides (LPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured at various periods after the withdrawal of the CHO-rich diet. The correlation of the above figures and the initiation, progression and regression of atherosclerotic lesion were studied. Results showed that: (1) when rabbits were fed on a CHO-rich diet for 60 days, the serum CHO and LPO increased significantly. Anyhow, the SOD activity was only slightly elevated when tiny atherosclerotic lesions developed in the aortae. (2) right after withdrawal of the CHO diet, serum CHO decreased significantly, but atherosclerotic lesion became even more severe than before. (3) after withdrawal of the CHO diet for 120 days, serum CHO, LPO content and SOD activity all returned to normal range and the atheromatous lesion became less severe except calcification and fibrosis developed in certain areas.

[Intravesical BCG, mitomycin-C and thiotepa in the prevention of bladder tumor recurrence after operation]

We observed the effects of intravesical irrigation with BCG (group B), Mitomycin-C (group M), and Thiotepa (group T) in prophylaxis of bladder tumor recurrence after surgical treatment. Follow-up for 1-10 years showed that the recurrence rate of bladder tumor was 12.5% (3/24) in group B, 46.9% (15/33) in group M, and 61.8% (21/34) in group T respectively. The effect of BCG was far better than that Mitomycin-C and Thiotepa (P < 0.01). In 5 cases, who failed to Thiotepa, also showed satisfactory results after use of intravesical BCG. Considering the side-effects of intravesical BCG, Thiotepa or Mitomycin-C should be used as the first choice of drugs in preventing the tumor recurrence.

Efficacy of ivermectin for control of microfilaremia recurring after treatment with diethylcarbamazine. II. Immunologic changes following treatment

We compared the effect of a single dose of ivermectin with that of a standard course of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) on several parameters of the host's antifilarial immune response in 60 patients with bancroftian filariasis enrolled in a double-blind drug trial. All participants had measurable serum levels of antifilarial antibodies and parasite antigens at the onset of the study. Drug-induced clearance of microfilaremia was associated with a temporary increase in HC 11 antigenemia and a decrease in serum levels of antibodies to soluble filarial antigens. Antigenemia progressively declined in patients who remained amicrofilaremic after treatment, but declined and then increased in persons with recurrent microfilaremia. Treatment triggered a sustained increase in serum levels of interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin-6 in all patients studied. Although ivermectin and DEC are believed to exert their antiparasite activity via different mechanisms, the same pattern of serologic changes was observed in patients treated with either drug.

Efficacy of ivermectin for control of microfilaremia recurring after treatment with diethylcarbamazine. I. Clinical and parasitologic observations

We compared the efficacy of a single dose of ivermectin with that of a standard course of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) for the control of microfilaremia in 60 patients with bancroftian filariasis who had developed recurrent microfilaremia after each of three or more prior treatments with DEC. The study was done as a randomized, double-blind trial. Complete, but in some cases, transient clearance of microfilaremia was observed in both treatment groups. At one year, recurrent microfilaremia was present in seven patients treated with ivermectin and in five treated with DEC. Pretreatment levels of microfilaremia were significantly higher in patients who relapsed within one year after treatment than in those who remained amicrofilaremic. Side effects with both treatments were common, but mild. Febrile reactions were more frequent in the ivermectin group; localized reactions consistent with a flare-up of acute filarial disease occurred mostly in the DEC group. We conclude that ivermectin is an effective and practical alternative to DEC for treatment of recurrent microfilaremia due to bancroftian filariasis.

[Clinical evaluation of anti-DNAse B test in rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease]

Anti-DNAse B test was performed with microtechnique in 160 subjects including patients with acute streptococcal pharyngitis, rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease as well as normal controls. It was shown that the antibody titer varied with age, stage of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease as well as the frequency of benthazine penicillin injections. It was also shown in this study that the school children group had considerably higher geometric mean antibody titer than the adult group. The upper normal limit of anti-DNAse B titer was 240 units in the school children group and 160 units in the adult group. The anti-DNAse B test shows a higher positive detection rate for streptococcal infection than ASO, especially when these two tests are used in combination. In patients with manifestations of acute rheumatic fever without elevation of ASO titer, anti-DNAse B test will be of great diagnostic value.

Survival and infectivity of Brugia malayi microfilariae after cryopreservation

Methods were studied for the cryopreservation of microfilariae of periodic Brugia malayi. RPMI-1640 tissue culture medium containing 6% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and 15% newborn calf serum was used as cryoprotectant. Samples were frozen slowly in the vapor phase of liquid nitrogen prior to emersion in liquid nitrogen (-196 degrees C). The freezing rate was -0.5 to -1.0 degrees C per minute, microfilariae remained viable for as long as, 212 and 375 days, survival rates were 94 to 98% and they were infective to Aedes togoi mosquitos. The infective larvae (L3) were obtained for 10-11 days after feeding at 28 degrees C room-temperature and the infection rate of L3 in test mosquitos was 22.4-30.6%. All DMSO should be removed from the freezing medium to restore microfilariae activity after freezing.

Insulin analogues with modifications in the beta-turn of the B-chain

The beta-turn formed by the amino acid residues 20-23 of the B-chain of insulin has been implicated as an important structural feature of the molecule. In other biologically active peptides, stabilization of beta-turns has resulted in increases in activity. We have synthesized three insulin analogues containing modifications which would be expected to increase the stability of the beta-turn. In two analogues, we have substituted alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (Aib) for the Glu residue normally present in position B21 or for the Arg residue normally present in position B22; in a third compound, we have replaced the Glu residue with its D-isomer. Biological evaluation of these compounds showed that [B21 Aib]insulin displays a potency ca. one-fourth that of natural insulin, while [B22 Aib]insulin is less than 10% as potent. In contrast, [B21 D-Glu]insulin is equipotent with natural insulin. We conclude that the beta-turn region of the insulin molecule normally possesses considerable flexibility, which may be necessary for it to assume a conformation commensurate with high biological activity. If this is the case, [B21 D-Glu]insulin may exhibit a stabilized geometry similar to that of natural insulin when bound to the insulin receptor.

[A comparison of patient-controlled analgesia with traditional intramuscular administration for postoperative pain relief]

The use of a disposable non-electronic patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device (Baxter) was evaluated in this study. Every patient under trial was instructed thoroughly how to use the PCA device before operation. The PCA device delivers a 25 mg IV injection of pethidine upon patient demand with a delay of 15 min between allowable administrations. The degree of patient satisfaction, the drug consumption, and the duration of using analgesia were compared with those in IM pethidine group. The results showed that, in the PCA group, the duration of using analgesic was longer; the drug consumption was greater (especially during the first 20 h after operation); and the degree of patient satisfaction was higher. The series comprised a total of 54 patients, 14 of whom complained of mild dizziness or nausea which did not require specific treatment. In sum, giving analgesic by the Baxter PCA device was a safe and effective alternative for IM analgesic in postoperative pain control.

Influence of operation under epidural anesthesia on peripheral t lymphocyte subsets

This paper reports the variation of peripheral T lymphocyte subsets in patients before and after operation under epidural anesthesia using OKT monoclonal antibodies (McAb). The results show that TH and TS after anesthesia and during surgery were lower than before anesthesia and in normal controls (P less than 0.05). The ratio of TH/TS after anesthesia and during operation were lower than before anesthesia (P less than 0.05), but there was no significant difference with normal controls (P greater than 0.05). Therefore, we consider that the decrease in TH cells was one of the reasons for decrease in patient immune function during anesthesia and surgery. Five to seven days after surgery, patient TH cell levels tended to normalize. This showed that this abnormality was transient and reversible. The results also indicated that emphasising prevention of infection in post-operational case, should be done during the first 5-7 days after surgery.

Acute poisoning with a glyphosate-surfactant herbicide ('Roundup'): a review of 93 cases

Between 1 January 1980, and 30 September 1989, 93 cases of exposure to herbicides containing glyphosphate and surfactant ('Roundup') were treated at Changhua Christian Hospital. The average amount of the 41% solution of glyphosate herbicide ingested by non-survivors was 184 +/- 70 ml (range 85-200 ml), but much larger amounts (500 ml) were reported to have been ingested by some patients and only resulted in mild to moderate symptomatology. Accidental exposure was asymptomatic after dermal contact with spray (six cases), while mild oral discomfort occurred after accidental ingestion (13 cases). Intentional ingestion (80 cases) resulted in erosion of the gastrointestinal tract (66%), seen as sore throat (43%), dysphagia (31%), and gastrointestinal haemorrhage (8%). Other organs were affected less often (non-specific leucocytosis 65%, lung 23%, liver 19%, cardiovascular 18%, kidney 14%, and CNS 12%). There were seven deaths, all of which occurred within hours of ingestion, two before the patient arrived at the hospital. Deaths following ingestion of 'Roundup' alone were due to a syndrome that involved hypotension, unresponsive to intravenous fluids or vasopressor drugs, and sometimes pulmonary oedema, in the presence of normal central venous pressure.

[Evaluation of the nutritive value of soybean milk prepared with microwave-treated soybeans]

Aqueous soybean extracts were prepared from beans, previously treated by microwaves to almost inactivate their lipoxygenase. These soy milks thus obtained were then nutritionally evaluated. All soy milks studied showed lower protein, fat, ash and total solids contents, as compared to a control milk prepared from soy beans not processed by microwaves. The milk obtained from soybeans with 8.7% initial moisture, treated by microwaves for 240 seconds, had the best total chemical score and the highest apparent methionine availability, as well as PER. The complete inactivation of the trypsin inhibitor activity was achieved with the milk prepared from soybeans with 56.8% initial moisture, subjected to microwave treatment for 180 seconds. On the other hand, the milk obtained from soybeans with 38.8% initial moisture, processed by microwaves for 180 seconds, resulted to have the highest, in vitro, protein digestibility.