Migration and illicit drug use among two types of male migrants in Shanghai, China

Large-scale internal migrations within China have led to speculation of increased drug use, but with little empirical evidence. This cross-sectional study examines the association between migration characteristics and illicit drug use in 100 general male migrants and 239 "money boys" (i.e., male migrants engaging in same-sex transactional sex) in Shanghai, China. Only three general male migrants reported any drug use. Among money boys, lifetime illicit drug use was 12%; Ecstasy and methamphetamine appeared to be the most popular drugs. In addition, depression prevalence was very high among both types of male migrants. Depression was associated with lifetime soft- and hard-drug use, while earning a higher income was associated with lifetime soft-drug use. These findings provide the first set of quantitative evidence of illicit drug use among Chinese male migrants. Although illicit drug use among male migrants is low compared to Western countries, its resurgence after 30 years of drug control gives cause for concern.

Effects of extrusion and supplementation of exogenous enzymes to diets containing Chinese storage brown rice on the carbohydrase activity in the digestive tract of piglets

Two experiments were conducted to study the effects of extrusion of Chinese storage brown rice and of exogenous enzymes supplementation to diets containing Chinese storage brown rice on the carbohydrase activity in digestive tract of piglets. In Experiment 1, 96 weaned piglets [initially 6.95 +/- 0.05 kg body weight (BW)] were used in a 2 x 2 factorial design, the animals were fed the diets containing extruded Chinese storage brown rice or non-treated Chinese storage brown rice and supplemented with or without exogenous enzymes. Each treatment had six replicate pens and four piglets in each pen. The results demonstrated that extrusion significantly increased (p < 0.05) the activity of duodenal maltase after 14 days of treatment and glucoamylase after 28 days of treatment, jejunal lactase, maltase, isomaltase, sucrase and alpha-amylase after 28 days of treatment, and jejunal alpha-amylase after 14 days of treatment; enzyme supplementation positively influenced (p < 0.05) the activity of pancreatic alpha-amylase after 14 and 28 days of treatment, pancreatic glucoamylase after 28 days of treatment and ileal trehalase after 14 days of treatment. Similarly, interaction between extrusion and enzyme addition existed after 14 days of treatment on the activity of pancreatic alpha-amylase and duodenal maltase and on the activity of duodenal glucoamylase and isomaltase, jejunal alpha-amylase, lactase, maltase, isomaltase and jejunal alpha-amylase after 28 days of treatment. In Experiment 2, six piglets (initially 21 +/- 1.85 kg BW) fitted with ileal 'T'-cannulas in a 6 x 6 Latin Square Design were used to study the effects of extrusion and addition of exogenous enzymes on ileal carbohydrase activity and nutrients digestibility. The results showed that exogenous enzymes significantly (p < 0.05) increased ileal alpha-amylase, glucoamylase and trehalase activity. The interaction between extrusion and enzyme supplementation had positive effect (p < 0.05) on the ileal lactase, cellobiase and sucrase activity.

Biomarker Analyses in Phase 2 Single-Agent Trials of Dasatinib for Breast Cancer

Background: Dasatinib (BMS-354825) is a potent SRC inhibitor being studied in several solid tumors including breast cancer. Expression profiling of breast cancer cell lines led to the identification of genes putatively correlated with dasatinib sensitivity.1,2 Inhibition of Src-family kinases may have complex effects on angiogenesis; circulating levels of VEGFR2 and collagen type IV (CollIV) are related to changes in VEGF signaling. Two Phase 2 single-agent trials of dasatinib3,4 have been performed in patients with locally-advanced or metastatic advanced breast cancers. Tumor markers may be used to predict clinical benefit and circulating biomarkers may reveal key mechanisms of action.Methods: Biomarker data from two Phase 2 trials including 114 patients were aggregated for this analysis. Archival tumor tissue from most recent prior surgery was collected in both trials; tumor samples were submitted for 38 of 44 patients with triple-negative, 39 of 46 patients with ER/PR+, and 20 of 24 patients with Her2/neu-amplified breast cancer. The initial dasatinib dose of 100 mg BID (n=46) was reduced to 70 mg BID (n=68) to improve tolerability. Based on mRNA results, immunohistochemical (IHC) procedures were developed for caveolin (Cav), phospho-Cav (p-Cav; scored as membrane vs cytoplasmic), EphA2 and IGFBP-2. Staining intensity was expressed on a scale of 0–3. Plasma was collected at baseline and after 2 and 4 weeks of dasatinib treatment and analyzed for VEGFR2 and CollIV by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Quantitative biomarker values pre-treatment and at ≥1 on-study time point for 71 of 114 patients were expressed as percent change from baseline. Tumor mRNA expression is being analyzed in all available tissue.Results: Protocol-defined clinical benefit was observed in 13 patients: 4 with triple-negative, 7 with ER/PR+, and 2 with Her2+ (which were also ER+) malignancies. Tumor tissue was prioritized and adequate for analysis in 89 tumors for Cav, 80 for p-Cav, 88 for EphA2 and 84 for IGFBP-2. Positive IHC (2-3+ intensity) was recorded for Cav in 35% of patients, with 11% and 25% positive for p-Cav in cytoplasm and membrane, respectively, and in 27% for EphA2 and 23% for IGFBP-2. No association was detected between clinical benefit and IHC results. Consistent increases in plasma biomarkers were observed in &gt;90% of subjects. Median percent change (at Days 15 & 29, respectively) was 22% & 27% in VEGFR2 and 32% & 46% in CollIV; the mechanism of this change is being further investigated. Increased CollIV on treatment was associated with drug-related Grade 3-4 adverse events in first 4 weeks and with clinical benefit, but not with tumor subtype. Data on mRNA expression will be presented.Conclusions: The selected IHC analytes did not predict clinical benefit in these trials. Consistent early increases in VEGFR2 and CollIV suggest an effect of dasatinib on vascular endothelium which appears related to both safety and efficacy.1. Huang et al. Cancer Res. 2007;67(5):2226-38.2. Finn et al. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2007;105(3):319-26.3. Finn et al. SABCS 2008;abstract 3118.4. Mayer et al. ASCO 2009;abstract 1011.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 2034.

OsEF3, a homologous gene of Arabidopsis ELF3, has pleiotropic effects in rice

Heading date is an important agronomic trait in rice. A rice mutant with a late heading date and no photoperiodic sensitivity in long or short day conditions was obtained from rice T-DNA insertion mutants in Zhonghua11 (ZH11). Through isolation and analysis of the flanking sequence of the T-NDA insertion site, the target sequence of insertion was obtained and found to locate in AP003296, the sequence accession number of rice chromosome 1 of RGP (http://rgp.dna.affrc.go.jp). The putative amino acid sequences of this target gene are homologous to the Arabidopsis protein ELF3 encoded by an early flowering gene. The rice target gene orthologous to Arabidopsis ELF3 is named OsEF3; this encodes a putative nematode responsive protein-like protein. OsEF3 has pleiotropic effects in rice that differ from the effects of Arabidopsis ELF3, which only affects biological rhythms. OsEF3 regulates heading date by influencing the BVG stage and does not affect photoperiodic sensitivity, which suggests that the OsEF3 gene may be involved in an autonomous pathway in rice. OsEF3 may affect root development and kilo-grain weight by delaying cell division or cell elongation.

Finding and defining the ideal patellar resection plane in total knee arthroplasty

Asymmetric resection of the patella during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) correlates with anterior knee pain, bony impingement and patellar maltracking. Despite this, there is no consensus regarding the desired landmarks; the cut is often done freehand; and there has been no quantitative comparison of proposed resection planes. The objectives of this study were to: determine the intra- and inter-surgeon repeatability of two radiographic resection definitions (medial-divot, MD, and medial-lateral extents, MLE); calculate two additional definitions from the radiographic patellar circumferences (parallel to the anterior surface, ANT, and perpendicular to the anteroposterior tangent points, PERP); compare the clinical resection line to the previous four definitions before and after introducing the MD method clinically; and identify distinguishing features of patellae with better vs. worse resection angles. We hypothesized that the MD method would improve repeatability both radiographically and clinically, that the different radiographic definitions would produce comparable angles, and that we could identify distinguishing features. For the radiographic study, three surgeons drew lines on 40 preoperative X-rays plus 9 interspersed repetitions of 3 of these X-rays. For the clinical study, we compared the patellar resection angle for 20 patients immediately before and after implementing the new method. Given that the clinical goal is to have equal distances from the resection surface to the anterior surface, we compared all results to the ANT definition as the theoretically ideal definition. Confirming the first hypothesis, intra-surgeon repeatability (10 repetitions of 3 X-rays) and inter-surgeon repeatability (3 surgeons x 40 X-rays) were both significantly better using the new MD method compared to the MLE method (p<0.001). Contrary to the second hypothesis, clinical use of the MD method did not improve resection symmetry. Contrary to the third hypothesis, the PERP definition was significantly different from the other three definitions. In agreement with the fourth hypothesis, female patellae and more deformed patella had significantly greater asymmetry (p<0.001). Given the inherent variability shown in drawing the 'patellar horizon', we encourage researchers to draw the line several times and average the results when comparing tilt or the resection angle to this horizon. Based on the distinguishing characteristics of asymmetrically resurfaced patellae in our series, we recommend that clinicians be particularly careful when resecting laterally deformed patellae and the patellae of female patients.

Phylogeographical analysis of an estuarine fish, Salanx ariakensis (Osmeridae: Salanginae) in the north-western Pacific

This study extended the geographic coverage of a previous study to explore population genetic structure and demographic history in the Ariake icefish Salanx ariakensis from three populations of continental coastlines and one island population in the north-western Pacific based on a partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The S. ariakensis showed high genetic diversity and strong genetic structure. Phylogenetic analysis showed a shallow gene tree with no clear phylogeographical structure. Contiguous range expansion and restricted gene flow were inferred to be main population events by nested-clade analysis. Significant genetic differentiations between populations could be attributable to negligible gene flow by coalescent analysis. High nucleotide diversity of each population was due to geographic mixing of heterogenous haplotypes during lowering sea levels of the Pleistocene. These findings indicate that cycles of geographic isolation and secondary contact happened in the Pleistocene glacial-interglacial cycles shaping genetic structure and population demography of S. ariakensis.

Effects of the DAT 3’UTR VNTR Genotype on Brain Function in Healthy Subjects and Patients with Schizophrenia

Aims:

To examine the effect of a polymorphism in the Dopamine Transporter (DAT) gene on brain activation during executive function and, for the first time:

1.

1.

Method:

Functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure whole-brain responses during overt verbal fluency in 85 subjects: 44 healthy volunteers and 41 DSM-IV schizophrenia patients. Main effects of genotype and diagnostic group on activation and their interaction were estimated using an ANOVA in SPM5.

Results:

The 10-repeat allele of the 3'UTR VNTR was associated with greater activation than the 9-repeat allele in the left (Z=4.8; FWEp=0.005) and right (Z=4.2; FWEp=0.057) anterior insula and with decreased activation in the rostral anterior cingulate (Z=4.3 FWEp=0.04) during word generation (versus baseline). These effects were irrespective of diagnostic group but generally more marked in patients. There were also strong trends for groupxgenotype interactions in the left middle frontal gyrus and the left nucleus accumbens. Analysis was controlled for task performance, IQ, antipsychotic medication, psychopathology and demographics.

Conclusion:

Cortical function during executive tasks is normally modulated by variation in the DAT gene, effect which is dependent on the brain region. DAT's effect may be altered in schizophrenia patients, which may reflect altered central dopamine function.

Reduced swimming abilities in fast-growing transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio associated with their morphological variations

Critical swimming speeds (U(crit)) and morphological characters were compared between the F(4) generation of GH-transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio and the non-transgenic controls. Transgenic fish displayed a mean absolute U(crit) value 22.3% lower than the controls. Principal component analysis identified variations in body shape, with transgenic fish having significantly deeper head, longer caudal length of the dorsal region, longer standard length (L(S)) and shallower body and caudal region, and shorter caudal length of the ventral region. Swimming speeds were related to the combination of deeper body and caudal region, longer caudal length of the ventral region, shallower head depth, shorter caudal length of dorsal region and L(S). These findings suggest that morphological variations which are poorly suited to produce maximum thrust and minimum drag in GH-transgenic C. carpio may be responsible for their lower swimming abilities in comparison with non-transgenic controls.

Eph/ephrin Signaling as a Potential Therapeutic Target After Central Nervous System Injury

Recent work indicates that the expression of Eph and ephrin proteins is upregulated after injury in the central nervous system (CNS). Although to date, much of the interest in these protein families in the nervous system has been on their roles during development, their presence in the adult CNS at multiple time points after injury suggest that they play significant roles in key aspects of the nervous system's response to damage. Several fundamental features of Eph and ephrin biology, such as bidirectional signaling, promiscuity of ligand-receptor binding, and potential cis regulation of function, present challenges for the formulation of rational and effective Eph/ephrin based strategies for CNS axon regeneration. However, recent work that have identified specific functions for individual Ephs and ephrins in injury-induced phenomena such as axon sprouting, cellular remodeling, and scar formation has begun to tease apart their contributions and may provide a number of potential entry points for beneficial therapeutic intervention.

Population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) parameters of Erwinia Chrysanthemi (ERW) asparaginase (ASNase) using the fused first-order elimination and Michaelis-Menten (MM) limited physiological model

13010

Background: Using the linear PK first order (FO) compartmental approach, the methodical and computational uniformity in modeling various linear systems (ERW) is the dominant characteristic of the population PK analyses. However, saturation of the enzymatic reaction results in nonlinear kinetics based on the MM equation, i.e., the deamination of ASN by ERW, which complicates the PK-PD model. The PK with FO & the MM PK-PD model is theoretically better when single dose of ERW is given. To simulate the PK-PD data and to project patient (pt) data using this model, we used simultaneous integration of the FO+MM equations. Methods: In the 1990’s, ERW was used in pediatric ALL pt (n=23, 1st cohort evaluated for PK-PD). The current study was started to assess if the parallel MM+FO (MM+FO) PK-PD model fit the limited ERW (25K) data better than the MM model, and to validate the MM+FO model and its population parameter estimates. Results: The population PK-PD model best-fitted serum ERW & ASN-time pairs obtained in 23 and from 5 pediatric pt with ALL, using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling (NONMEM). The validity of the MM+FO population PK-PD model and the estimated parameters were tested using the naive prediction method. Patients were administered ERW 6K or 25 K IU/m2 when allergy to E. coli formulations appeared. High correlation between ERW peak serum levels calculated from limited individual pt’ KM (900 μM) & Vmax values in 5 pediatric pt (2nd cohort) and the observed ERW trough levels & its substrate (ASN) were found. The T1/2 averaged 16 hr (25K ERW), and the trough level of 0.1–0.2 IU/ml was correlated with ASN <3 μM. These PK-PD parameters validated those obtained from the 1st cohort. When simulations on population parameters were conducted, the MM+FO predicted the multiple dose steady-state serum ERW & ASN levels nicely. Therefore, the MM+FO model was clearly superior to either the FO or the MM PD models. Moreover, simulations compared favorably ERW 25K Q2 days x3 doses & x2 weeks vs. Pegaspargase 2,5K Q2 weeks. Conclusions: The NONMEM PK-PD model for ERW fitted the simultaneous analyses of data from different doses and regimens better than either standard Two-stage or MM could.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Substance use and HIV risks among male heterosexual and ‘money boy’ migrants in Shanghai, China

There is a growing awareness that internal migration in China might shift the HIV epidemic by broadening the social and sexual mixing of its population. However, little is known about how drug use/abuse might contribute to the spread of HIV. This qualitative study aims to elucidate factors for preventing substance abuse and HIV among two types of male migrants living in the Shanghai metropolitan area; the general migrant population and so-called 'money boys' (those who engaged in same-sex activities for money). Compared to most male migrants, the 'money boys' had a slightly better economic situation; rarely visited their hometowns; used alcohol less but drugs more; had more knowledge about HIV and sexually transmitted diseases; higher HIV/ STD testing rates and fewer HIV risk behaviors. The general male migrants had more misconceptions about HIV (e.g. the need to pay for HIV testing) than the 'money boys'. However, it was noted that 'money boys' who were new to the enterprise and men who have sex with men but did not engage in commercial sex often lacked HIV knowledge and protective skills. Given the needs of various sub-types of 'migrants', differential approaches to HIV prevention are needed.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of asparaginases in antibody-negative pediatric patients with higher risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): A report from CCG-1961

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Background: Asparaginase (ASNase) induces apoptosis in ALL lymphoblasts by depleting cells of extracellular asparagine (ASN) and possibly glutamine (GLN). On CCG-1961 [Seibel NL et al. Blood 2003; 102(11): 224a (abstract #787)], all patients (pts) received 9 doses of native E.coli-ASNase in induction (IND). Pts with rapid early response (marrow blasts < 25% on Day 7, RER) were randomized to standard intensity therapy and received native ASNase thereafter or to stronger intensity therapy and received PEG-ASNase post induction. All pts with slow early response (marrow blasts ≥ 25% on Day 7, SER) received PEG-ASNase after induction. Pts with clinical allergy to E.coli-ASNase were switched to Erwinase. Methods: Anti-ASNase Antibody (Ab) titers were assayed at the end of IND, prior to Delayed Intensification #1 and prior to starting Maintenance. Amino acid levels were measured in 430 sera from 187 patients with measurable ASNase activity. Results: Population pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the ASNase formulations demonstrated half-lives of native ASNase (6000 IU/m2): 30 hours, PEG-ASNase (2500 IU/m2): 156 hours, and Erwinase (6000 IU/m2): 18 hours. Subsequent exposures to either formulation resulted in increased activity with moderate prolongation of the elimination half-lives. One-hundred forty-two sera from 70 patients with ASNase activity between 0.03 and 1.11 IU/ml, had a mean ± SDEV ASNase activity, ASN levels, and GLN levels of 0.21 ± 0.23 IU/ml, 14.6 ± 17.7 μM, and 300.4 ± 233.8 μM, respectively; with median values of 0.11 IU/ml (range: 0.03–1.114 IU/ml), 4.7 μM (range: 0.38 - 81.34 μΜ), and 270.2 μM (range: 5.3 - 1189.1 μM), respectively. TTEST analyses linked higher ASNase activity with lower ASN levels and greater % ASN deamination. Higher ASNase activity did not assure greater GLN depletion. Conclusions: A sigmoid relationship between ASNase levels and % ASN deamination showed that activity of 0.41 ± 0.24 IU/ml (mean ± SDEV) provided 93% ± 13% ASN deamination. Therefore, >90% ASN deamination required ASNase >0.4 IU/ml. Kaplan-Meier analyses are pending.

[Table: see text]

Developments in transgenic fish in the People's Republic of China

In the People's Republic of China, genetically modified (GM) fish are being developed primarily to produce desirable alterations to growth rates or feed-conversion efficiency. Up to the present, no transgenic fish have been commercially approved for human consumption. This review introduces advances in the People's Republic of China in transgenic fish studies, biosafety studies of fast-growth GM fish, and the regulation of GM fish.

Residue depletion of tilmicosin in chicken tissues

A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with detection at 290 nm was modified and validated for the determination of tilmicosin residues in broiler chicken tissues. The limits of detection (LOD) of the method were 0.01 microg/g for muscle and 0.025 microg/g for liver and kidney. Average recoveries ranged from 80.4 to 88.3%. Relative standard deviation values ranged from 5.2 to 12.1%. Residue depletion of tilmicosin in broiler chickens was examined after dosing over a 5-day period by incorporation of the drug into drinking water at 37.5 and 75.0 mg/L. Tilmicosin concentrations in liver and kidney were highest on day 3 of medication and on day 5 in muscle, in both low- and high-dose groups. The residue levels in both groups were significantly higher in liver than in kidney or muscle. A minimum withdrawal time of 9 days was indicated for residue levels in muscle, liver, and kidney tissues below the maximum residue level (MRL).

Identification of a novel membrane protein, HP59, with therapeutic potential as a target of tumor angiogenesis

CM101, a polysaccharide isolated from the culture medium of Group B streptococcus, a neonatal pathogen, targets pathological angiogenesis and inhibits tumor growth in mice and humans. CM101 also targets neonatal lung and adult sheep lung endothelial cells. A gene encoding a transmembrane protein that interacts with CM101 was isolated from a sheep lung endothelial cell cDNA library. The gene, termed sp55, encodes a 495-amino acid polypeptide. COS-7 cells transfected with a vector containing sp55 express the SP55 protein-bound CM101 in a concentration-dependent manner. Stably transfected CHO cells also bound CM101. The corresponding human gene, hp59, was isolated from a human fetal lung cDNA library and had a predicted identity to SP55 of 86% over 495 amino acids. HP59 protein was shown by immunohistochemistry to be present in the pathological tumor vasculature of the lung, breast, colon, and ovary, but not in the normal vasculature, suggesting that the protein may be critical to pathological angiogenesis. The hp59 gene and/or the HP59 protein was not expressed in a variety of normal tissues, but was significantly expressed in human fetal lung, consistent with the pathophysiology of Group B streptococcus infections in neonates. Mice immunized with HP59 and SP55 peptides showed significant attenuation of tumor growth. Immunization effectively inhibited both the tumor angiogenesis and vasculogenesis processes, as evidenced by lack of both HP59- and CD34-positive vessels. These results and the immunohistochemistry data suggest a therapeutic potential for the CM101 target protein HP59 both as a drug target and as a vaccine against pathoangiogenesis.

A link between diabetes and atherosclerosis: Glucose regulates expression of CD36 at the level of translation

Both the risk and the rate of development of atherosclerosis are increased in diabetics, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. Here we report a glucose-mediated increase in CD36 mRNA translation efficiency that results in increased expression of the macrophage scavenger receptor CD36. Expression of CD36 was increased in endarterectomy lesions from patients with a history of hyperglycemia. Macrophages that were differentiated from human peripheral blood monocytes in the presence of high glucose concentrations showed increased expression of cell-surface CD36 secondary to an increase in translational efficiency of CD36 mRNA. We obtained similar data from primary cells isolated from human vascular lesions, and we found that glucose sensitivity is a function of ribosomal reinitiation following translation of an upstream open reading frame (uORF). Increased translation of macrophage CD36 transcript under high glucose conditions provides a mechanism for accelerated atherosclerosis in diabetics.

Expression of molecular messages for angiogenesis by fibroblasts from aneurysmal abdominal aorta versus dermal fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

The molecular messages which drive angiogenesis in the adventitia of an aneurysmal aorta are uncertain. The emergence of molecular phenotyping by cDNA expression arrays provides a simple and rapid method for a preliminary approach to the analysis of molecular messengers for neovascularization in cultured cells. In the present experiment, fibroblasts cultured from the aorta of a patient with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were compared with normal dermal fibroblasts, on an array that evaluates several mRNAs with known roles in angiogenesis.

METHODS

RNA was isolated from fibroblasts and purified. Labelled cDNA probes were generated from a mixture of RNA and CDS primers. Atlas Array membranes (Clontech) were prehybridized by ExpressHyb buffer. The cDNA probes were then added to the membranes, which were exposed to Phospholmage Screen (Molecular Dynamics) and analysed by a dedicated computer program.

RESULTS

The most significantly upregulated mRNAs in AAA (by comparison to dermal fibroblasts) were: MCAF, MDNCF, EGR-1, VEGF, FGF-7, Mal protein, Mac Marcks, Transducin, Interleukin-9 receptor, and TNF.

CONCLUSION

VEGF and TNF were upregulated, as expected. However, the upregulation of monocyte chemotactic and activating factor (MCAF) and monocyte-derived neutrophil chemotactic factor (MDNCF) suggest that the fibroblast may be more significantly involved in driving the inflammatory response that leads to AAA than previously realized.

[Efficacy of ablendazole emulsion in treatment of 212 patients with cystic echinococcosis]

OBJECTIVE

To verify the efficacy of abendazole emulsion, a new formulation of abendazole, in treatment of human cystic echinococcosis.

METHODS

212 patients with liver cystic echinococcosis were treated orally with albendazole emulsion at a daily dose of 10 mg/kg or 12.5 mg/kg for 3 to 12 months or over one year. The therapeutic efficacy was mainly evaluated by image feature examined with B ultrasound examination, a short-term efficacy at the completion of treatment and a long-term efficacy followed-up for 1-4 years.

RESULTS

In 212 patients treated with albendazole emulsion at a daily dose of 10 mg/kg and 12.5 mg/kg, the average cure rate, improved rate and the rate of no avail were 74.5%, 99.1% and 0.9% respectively after termination of the treatment, and the average long-term rates were 83.1%, 89.3% and 0.6% respectively. Recurrence occurred in 18 patients(10.2%). The results indicated that the best efficacy was seen in patients treated with albendazole 12.5 mg/kg daily for 9 months. Better response was also found when the recurrent patients were re-treated with albendazole.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy of albendazole emulsion on patients with liver cystic echinococcosis is much better than that of albendazole tablet or capsule and mebendazole. Meanwhile, the efficacy of albendazole emulsion is stable with less adverse effects. The results suggest that albendazole emulsion could be the drug of choice for treatment of cystic hydatid disease.

Health effects of occupational exposures to vehicle emissions in Shanghai

The authors investigated the health effects of occupational exposures to vehicle emissions in 745 bus drivers, conductors, and taxi drivers, compared with 532 unexposed controls, in Shanghai. Logistic regression and general linear models were used to examine the relationship between exposure and respiratory illness. Results showed that the prevalences of some respiratory symptoms and chronic respiratory diseases were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the exposed group than in the controls. The adjusted odds ratios for throat pain, phlegm, chronic rhinitis, and chronic pharyngitis were 1.95 (95% CI 1.55-2.46), 3.90 (95% CI 2.61-5.81), 1.96 (95% CI 1.11-3.46), and 4.19 (95% CI 2.49-7.06), respectively. Also, there were exposure time response relationships for the prevalences of phlegm and chronic respiratory disease. Pulmonary function and blood lead levels were not significantly correlated with exposure status. The results suggest that occupational exposure to vehicle emissions may induce detectable adverse health effects.

Exposure to silica and silicosis among tin miners in China: exposure-response analyses and risk assessment

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the risk of silicosis among tin miners and to investigate the relation between silicosis and cumulative exposure to dust (Chinese total dust and respirable crystalline silica dust).

METHODS

A cohort study of 3010 miners exposed to silica dust and employed for at least 1 year during 1960-5 in any of four Chinese tin mines was conducted. Historical total dust data from China were used to create a job exposure matrix for facility, job title, and calendar year. The total dust exposure data from China were converted to estimates of exposure to respirable crystalline silica for comparison with findings from other epidemiological studies of silicosis. Each worker's work history was abstracted from the complete employment records in mine files. Diagnoses of silicosis were based on 1986 Chinese pneumoconiosis Roentgen diagnostic criteria, which classified silicosis as stages I-III-similar to an International Labour Organisation (ILO) classification of 1/1 or greater.

RESULTS

There were 1015 (33.7%) miners identified with silicosis, who had a mean age of 48.3 years, with a mean of 21.3 years after first exposure (equivalent to 11.0 net years in a dusty job). Among those who had silicosis, 684 miners (67.4%) developed silicosis after exposure ended (a mean of 3.7 years after). The risk of silicosis was strongly related to cumulative exposure to silica dust and was well fitted by the Weibull distribution, with the risk of silicosis less than 0.1% when the Chinese measure of cumulative exposure to total dust (CTD) was under 10 mg/m(3)-years (or 0.36 mg/m(3)-years of respirable crystalline silica), increasing to 68.7% when CTD exposure was 150 mg/m(3)-years (or 5.4 mg/m(3)-years of respirable crystalline silica). Latency period was not correlated to the risk of silicosis or cumulative dose of exposure. This study predicts about a 36% cumulative risk of silicosis for a 45 year lifetime exposure to these tin mine dusts at the CTD exposure standard of 2 mg/m(3), and a 55% risk at 45 years exposure to the current United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Mine Safety and Health Administration standards of 0.1 mg/m(3) 100% respirable crystalline silica dust.

CONCLUSIONS

A clear exposure-response relation was detected for silicosis in Chinese tin miners. The study results were similar to most, but not all, findings from other large scale exposure-response studies.

Elevated Egr-1 in human atherosclerotic cells transcriptionally represses the transforming growth factor-beta type II receptor

Atherosclerotic lesions may progress due to a "failure to die" by vascular repair cells. Egr-1, a zinc finger transcription factor, is elevated more than 5-fold in human carotid lesions relative to the adjacent tunica media. Lesion cells in vitro also express 2-3-fold higher Egr-1 mRNA and protein levels but express much lower levels of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) Type II receptor (TbetaR-2) and are functionally resistant to the antiproliferative effects of TGF-beta. Lesion cells fail to express a TbetaR-2 promoter/chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) construct but overexpress an Egr-1-inducible platelet-derived growth factor-A promoter/CAT construct. Transfection of Egr-1 cDNA represses TbetaR-2/CAT constructs but induces PDGF-A/CAT. Egr-1 transfection reduces the levels of TbetaR-2 and confers resistance to the antiproliferative effect of TGF-beta1. Egr-1 can interact directly with both the -143 Sp1 site and the positive regulatory element 2 (PRE2) (ERT/ets) region of the TbetaR-2 promoter. Thus, although activating a family of stress-responsive genes, Egr-1 also transcriptionally represses one of the major inhibitory pathways that restrains vascular repair.

Rifampicin polylactic acid microspheres for lung targeting

Rifampicin polylactic acid microspheres for lung targeting were prepared by a modified emulsion-solvent diffusion method. The microspheres were free flowing, spherical with regular surface. Drug content, particle size distribution and in vitro release properties of the prepared microspheres were evaluated. In vivo experiments on rabbits showed remarkable accumulation of microspheres in the lung.

A novel immunoadsorbent for rheumatoid arthritis therapy--preparation and efficacy evaluation

AIM

To develop a novel immunoadsorbent for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy.

METHODS

A RA immunoadsorbent was developed by binding heat-aggregated human IgG(HAHIgG) to porous agar gel beads. Its adsorption capacity for rheumatoid factors (RFs), storage stability and blood compatibility were evaluated.

RESULTS

The coupling yield of HAHIgG on the carrier was 6.0 mg/g wet gel. Saturation adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for IgMRF, IgGRF and IgARF were 3400, 2240 and 2400 IU/g, respectively. The adsorbent can be stored at 4 degrees C for three months without significant variance in its activity. Its fine permeability and hemocompatibility were demonstrated by extracorporeal hemoperfusion on rabbits.

CONCLUSION

HAHIgG/agar gel is a safe and effective immunoadsorbent for RA therapy, its potential clinical use is promising in the future.

Effects of acute exposure to mild or moderate hypoxia on human psychomotor performance and visual-reaction time

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine whether psychomotor performance and visual reaction time were affected by acute exposure to mild or moderate hypoxia. Method. Eighteen healthy male volunteers performed finger tapping, simple reaction time (SRT) and 4-choice reaction time (CRT) tests at simulated altitude of 300 m (control), 2800 m, 3600 m and 4400 m for 1 h in a hypobaric chamber. Result. SaO2 decreased from 98% (control) to 90%, 82% and 74% respectively at the various altitudes. All the performance parameters showed no significant change after exposure to 2800 m for 1 h relative to ground level (P>0.05). However the mean reaction time of 4-CRT under 3600 m prolonged and performance decreased as compared with baseline value (P<0.05), and the performance decreased further under 4400 m (P<0.01). No significant difference was found in finger tapping and SRT even under exposure to 4400 m for 1 h. Furthermore, no decrease in correct rate were observed at any altitude (P>0.05). Conclusion. The results from this study demonstrated that there were no measurable impairment of visual reaction time and psychomotor performance under exposure to an altitude of 2800 m for 1 h. However, adverse effects on psychomotor performance were observed under 3600 m and over.

Blockade of RAGE-amphoterin signalling suppresses tumour growth and metastases

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), a multi-ligand member of the immunoglobulin superfamily of cell surface molecules, interacts with distinct molecules implicated in homeostasis, development and inflammation, and certain diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Engagement of RAGE by a ligand triggers activation of key cell signalling pathways, such as p21ras, MAP kinases, NF-kappaB and cdc42/rac, thereby reprogramming cellular properties. RAGE is a central cell surface receptor for amphoterin, a polypeptide linked to outgrowth of cultured cortical neurons derived from developing brain. Indeed, the co-localization of RAGE and amphoterin at the leading edge of advancing neurites indicated their potential contribution to cellular migration, and in pathologies such as tumour invasion. Here we demonstrate that blockade of RAGE-amphoterin decreased growth and metastases of both implanted tumours and tumours developing spontaneously in susceptible mice. Inhibition of the RAGE-amphoterin interaction suppressed activation of p44/p42, p38 and SAP/JNK MAP kinases; molecular effector mechanisms importantly linked to tumour proliferation, invasion and expression of matrix metalloproteinases.

[The expressions of p16, CDK4 and PCNA proteins in trophoblastic tumors]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between the regulatory factors in G1 phase of cell cycle and the cacrinogenesis of the trophoblastic cells.

METHODS

The expressions of p16, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) proteins in 18 cases of trophoblastic tumors, 30 cases of hydatidiform mole and 30 cases of normal villi were studied by immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS

The expressions of p16 protein between malignant trophoblastic tumors and normal villi were significantly different (P < 0.05). PCNA positive rate in p16 positive samples were markedly lower than that in negative samples (P < 0.05). The expressions of CDK4 among normal villi, hydatiform mole and trophoblastic tumors were not significantly different. Patients with positive p16 expression had a higher 3 year survival rate.

CONCLUSION

p16 protein may inhibit trophoblastic cells proliferation, and p16 gene mutation may be an important factor in carcinogenesis of trophoblastic cells and proliferation out of control. P16 protein expression examination is helpful in prediction of patients prognosis.

alpha(v)beta(3) integrin induces tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent Ca(2+) influx in pulmonary endothelial cells

The endothelial alpha(v)beta(3) integrin occurs luminally, where its ligation by soluble agents may induce inflammatory signaling. We tested this hypothesis in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cell monolayers with the use of vitronectin and cross-linking antibodies to ligate and aggregate the integrin. We quantified the endothelial cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) according to the Fura 2 ratio imaging method in single cells of confluent monolayers. At baseline, endothelial [Ca(2+)](i) levels remained steady at 86 nmol/L for >20 minutes. Cross-linking of the alpha(v)beta(3) integrin through the sequential exposure of monolayers to anti-alpha(v)beta(3) monoclonal antibody LM609 and secondary IgG resulted in a [Ca(2+)](i) increase of 100% above baseline. This increase commenced in <0.5 minute, peaked in <2 minutes, and decayed to baseline in approximately 5 minutes. Similar responses occurred after the addition of vitronectin (400 microg/mL). In contrast, external Ca(2+) depletion blunted the cross-linking-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increase by 60%, a response that was completely inhibited when the monolayers were also pretreated with thapsigargin. Thus, the [Ca(2+)](i) increase was attributable in part to the release of Ca(2+) from endosomal stores but mostly to Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane. Induced aggregation of the alpha(v)beta(3) integrin enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase C-gamma1 and increased the accumulation of inositol-1, 4,5-trisphosphate. Genistein, a broad-spectrum tyrosine kinase inhibitor, abrogated both of these effects, as well as the alpha(v)beta(3)-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increases. We conclude that aggregation of the endothelial alpha(v)beta(3) integrin induces a rapid tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent increase in [Ca(2+)](i). This response may subserve the inflammatory role of alpha(v)beta(3) integrin in blood vessels.

High-level expression of Egr-1 and Egr-1-inducible genes in mouse and human atherosclerosis

To understand the mRNA transcript profile in the human atherosclerotic lesion, RNA was prepared from the fibrous cap versus adjacent media of 13 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. cDNA expression arrays bearing 588 known genes indicated that lesions express unexpectedly high levels of the early growth response gene, Egr-1 (NGFI-A), a zinc-finger transcription factor that modulates a cluster of stress-responsive genes including PDGF and TGF-beta. Expression of Egr-1 was an average of 5-fold higher in the lesion than in the adjacent media, a result confirmed by RT-PCR, and many Egr-1-inducible genes were also strongly elevated in the lesion. Time-course analyses revealed that Egr-1 was not induced ex vivo. Immunocytochemistry indicated that Egr-1 was expressed prominently in the smooth muscle-actin positive cells, particularly in areas of macrophage infiltration, and in other cell types, including endothelial cells. Induction of atherosclerosis in LDL receptor-null mice by feeding them a high-fat diet resulted in a progressive increase in Egr-1 expression in the aorta. Thus, induction of Egr-1 by atherogenic factors may be a key step in coordinating the cellular events that result in vascular lesions.

Effects of acute mild and moderate hypoxia on human mood state

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of acute mild and moderate hypoxia on human mood state.

METHOD

The mood states of 18 healthy male volunteers were evaluated by self-assessment questionnaires, profile of mood state (POMS) and state anxiety inventory (S-AI) after random exposure to simulated altitude of 300 m (control), 2800 m, 3600 m and 4400 m for 1 h in a hypobaric chamber.

RESULT

The data at 300 m level were taken as the baseline control. The negative mood state factor points (tension, fatigue etc.) increased gradually as the altitude level increased while V (vigor-activity) points had a tendency to decrease (P<0.05 or P<0.01). No significant difference was found in the points of (D, A) even under exposure to 4400 m (P>0.05). At the early period of 2800 m exposure the tension points of POMS and S-AI scores were higher than those of control level (P<0.05) then dropped to baseline level when exposure to this altitude for 1 h.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to acute mild hypobaric hypoxia at 2800 m for 1 h has adverse effect on mood state of healthy person and the negative effect was further aggravated with the increment of altitude level.

Vascular expression of the alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin in lung and other organs

The expression of the alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin in nonproliferating vascular beds remains unclear. To determine possible organ-specific differences, we compared alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin expression in the lung and other organs. Paraffin-embedded tissue sections of lung, liver, brain, muscle and skin obtained from rats were processed for immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal (LM609) and a polyclonal antibody (AB1903) against the alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin. Immunogold electron microscopy was used to localize alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin in rat lung microvasculature. With the use of custom-designed primers, lung sections were subjected to in situ PCR in a thermal cycler to amplify alpha(v) or beta(3) mRNA. To confirm specific amplification, PCR products were further hybridized in situ with an alpha(v) or beta(3) cDNA probe. In the lung, the alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin protein as well as alpha(v) and beta(3) mRNAs was extensively evident in the endothelium of extra-alveolar and alveolar microvessels, in vascular smooth muscle, and in large bronchial epithelium but not in the epithelium of alveolar ducts or alveoli. Ultrastructural immunogold labeling showed the presence of the integrin on the luminal and abluminal faces of the lung microvascular endothelium but not on the apical surface of the alveolar epithelium. Staining for the integrin was generally negative in blood vessels of several systemic organs, although weak staining was evident in branches of the hepatic portal vein. The constitutive presence of the alpha(v) and beta(3) mRNAs and the alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin in the lung microvascular bed suggests that gene transcription for the integrin is ongoing in lung vessels. Because it binds vitronectin, the lung vascular alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin may play a role in ligation of bloodborne, vitronectin-containing macromolecular complexes formed in inflammation.

N(epsilon)-(carboxymethyl)lysine adducts of proteins are ligands for receptor for advanced glycation end products that activate cell signaling pathways and modulate gene expression

Recent studies suggested that interruption of the interaction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), with the signal-transducing receptor receptor for AGE (RAGE), by administration of the soluble, extracellular ligand-binding domain of RAGE, reversed vascular hyperpermeability and suppressed accelerated atherosclerosis in diabetic rodents. Since the precise molecular target of soluble RAGE in those settings was not elucidated, we tested the hypothesis that predominant specific AGEs within the tissues in disorders such as diabetes and renal failure, N(epsilon)-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) adducts, are ligands of RAGE. We demonstrate here that physiologically relevant CML modifications of proteins engage cellular RAGE, thereby activating key cell signaling pathways such as NF-kappaB and modulating gene expression. Thus, CML-RAGE interaction triggers processes intimately linked to accelerated vascular and inflammatory complications that typify disorders in which inflammation is an established component.

The expression of TGF-beta receptors in human atherosclerosis: evidence for acquired resistance to apoptosis due to receptor imbalance

The degree of cellularity in vascular lesions is determined by the balance between the migration and proliferation of cells relative to their rate of egress and apoptosis. Transforming growth factor-beta(1) can act as a potent antiproliferative and apoptotic factor for proliferating vascular cells. Our laboratory has previously identified cells cultured from human vascular lesions that are resistant to the antiproliferative effect of TGF-beta(1) due to an acquired mutation in the Type II receptor for TGF-beta(1). In the present studies, the expression of the Type I and II receptors in coronary and carotid atherosclerotic lesions was analysed by immunostaining, RT-PCR, and in situ RT-PCR. Levels of the Type I and Type II receptors varied widely within lesions, with the highest levels in the fibrous cap and at discrete foci within the lesion. Regions of smooth muscle-like cells (SMC) were commonly found that were Type I positive but Type II receptor negative. In 43 cell lines cultured from 126 human lesions, 84% of the lesion-derived cell (LDC) cultures exhibited functional resistance to the antiproliferative effect of TGF-beta(1). This resistance was conferred against TGF-beta(1), TGF-beta(2), and TGF- beta(3), but not interferon-gamma or mimosine. While normal SMC exhibited a four-fold increase in the rate of apoptosis after TGF- beta(1) treatment, most LDC were resistant to apoptosis in response to TGF-beta(1). Resistant cells exhibited selective loss of Type II receptor expression, and retroviral transfection of Type II receptor cDNA partially corrected the functional deficit. Thus, resistance to apoptosis may lead to the slow proliferation of resistant cell subsets, thereby contributing to the progression of atherosclerotic and restenotic lesions.