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Abstract
Mutations in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 gene (MECP2) are identified in the majority of females with Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked dominant neurodevelopmental disorder. We searched for mutations by sequencing the MECP2 coding region in 45 sporadic cases (35 with classic RTT, eight with variant forms and two males) and in seven families with two or more affected females. Following our previous report of mutations in two families and eight sporadic cases, we here present 18 additional mutations. We found 13 single nucleotide substitutions, all of which are C-->T transitions at CpG hot spots. Frameshift mutations, leading to premature termination of translation, include two single guanine (G) nucleotide deletions from a stretch of contiguous Gs, a novel four nucleotide deletion, a novel 32 nucleotide deletion in the C-terminal domain and a novel complex duplication/deletion rearrangement in the same region. When X-chromosome inactivation patterns were compared in 16 MECP2 mutation-positive and 23 mutation-negative samples, no significant differences were observed. The mutational spectrum in our subject population is similar to studies from around the world. Of over 300 MECP2 mutations reported, two-thirds are truncating mutations and one-third are missense mutations, mostly in the methyl-binding domain. Nearly 70% of all identified mutations are C-->T transitions at one of eight CpG hot spots, and about 10% are intragenic deletions or complex rearrangements that lead to frameshifts in the C-terminal region. The rate of mutation detection in the MECP2 coding region ranges from 70 to 85% in clinically diagnosed RTT and is much lower in diagnostic variants.
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Granoff DM, Moe GR, Giuliani MM, Adu-Bobie J, Santini L, Brunelli B, Piccinetti F, Zuno-Mitchell P, Lee SS, Neri P, Bracci L, Lozzi L, Rappuoli R. A novel mimetic antigen eliciting protective antibody to Neisseria meningitidis. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2001; 167:6487-96. [PMID: 11714816 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.167.11.6487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Molecular mimetic Ags are of considerable interest as vaccine candidates. Yet there are few examples of mimetic Ags that elicit protective Ab against a pathogen, and the functional activity of anti-mimetic Abs has not been studied in detail. As part of the Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B genome sequencing project, a large number of novel proteins were identified. Herein, we provide evidence that genome-derived Ag 33 (GNA33), a lipoprotein with homology to Escherichia coli murein transglycosylase, elicits protective Ab to meningococci as a result of mimicking an epitope on loop 4 of porin A (PorA) in strains with serosubtype P1.2. Epitope mapping of a bactericidal anti-GNA33 mAb using overlapping peptides shows that the mAb recognizes peptides from GNA33 and PorA that share a QTP sequence that is necessary but not sufficient for binding. By flow cytometry, mouse antisera prepared against rGNA33 and the anti-GNA33 mAb bind as well as an anti-PorA P1.2 mAb to the surface of eight of nine N. meningitidis serogroup B strains tested with the P1.2 serosubtype. Anti-GNA33 Abs also are bactericidal for most P1.2 strains and, for susceptible strains, the activity of an anti-GNA33 mAb is similar to that of an anticapsular mAb but less active than an anti-P1.2 mAb. Anti-GNA Abs also confer passive protection against bacteremia in infant rats challenged with P1.2 strains. Thus, GNA33 represents one of the most effective immunogenic mimetics yet described. These results demonstrate that molecular mimetics have potential as meningococcal vaccine candidates.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Animals
- Animals, Suckling
- Antibodies, Bacterial/biosynthesis
- Antibodies, Bacterial/therapeutic use
- Antigens, Bacterial/genetics
- Antigens, Bacterial/immunology
- Binding Sites, Antibody
- Blood Bactericidal Activity
- Blotting, Western
- Cell Membrane/chemistry
- Cell Membrane/immunology
- Cell Membrane/microbiology
- Female
- Flow Cytometry
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
- Genome, Bacterial
- Glycosyltransferases/immunology
- Humans
- Meningococcal Infections/immunology
- Meningococcal Infections/prevention & control
- Mice
- Molecular Mimicry/genetics
- Molecular Mimicry/immunology
- Neisseria meningitidis/genetics
- Neisseria meningitidis/immunology
- Neisseria meningitidis/metabolism
- Peptide Mapping
- Porins/immunology
- Rats
- Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell/metabolism
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203
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Lee SS, Lee BK, Lee GS, Stewart WF, Simon D, Kelsey K, Todd AC, Schwartz BS. Associations of lead biomarkers and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase and vitamin D receptor genotypes with hematopoietic outcomes in Korean lead workers. Scand J Work Environ Health 2001; 27:402-11. [PMID: 11800328 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study compares and contrasts associations of dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA)-chelatable lead, tibia lead, and blood lead with five hematopoietic outcomes and evaluates the effect modification of these relations by polymorphisms in the delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) and vitamin D receptor (VDR) genes. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 798 lead workers and 135 unexposed referents was performed. RESULTS The DMSA-chelatable lead, tibia lead, and blood lead levels ranged in the lead (Pb) workers from 4.8 to 2103 g, -7 to 338 g Pb/g bone mineral, and 4 to 86 g/dl, respectively. The mean of the hemoglobin, hematocrit, zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP), and urinary (ALAU) and plasma (ALAP) delta-aminolevulinic acid levels of the lead workers were 14.2 (SD 1.4) g/dl, 42.4 (SD 4.4)%, 80.2 (SD 63.5) g/dl, 2.1 (SD 3.7) mg/l, and 17.7 (20.6) g/ml, respectively. After adjustment for the covariates, tibia lead was associated with all five hematopoietic outcomes, while blood lead and DMSA-chelatable lead were associated only with ZPP, ALAP, and ALAU. A comparison of the regression coefficients, total model adjusted R2 values, and delta R2 values revealed that blood lead was the best predictor of ZPP, ALAP, and ALAU. Only tibia lead was significantly associated with hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, but the additional variance explained by tibia lead was (<1%). No clear effect modification of the relations between the lead biomarkers and hematopoietic outcomes studied was caused by ALAD or VDR genotype. CONCLUSIONS Lead must have a chronic, cumulative effect on hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and any speculated mechanism cannot merely involve short-term plasma or target organ lead levels.
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Min YG, Choi BY, Kwon SK, Lee SS, Jung YH, Kim JW, Oh SJ. Multicenter study on the prevalence of perennial allergic rhinitis and allergy-associated disorders. J Korean Med Sci 2001; 16:697-701. [PMID: 11748347 PMCID: PMC3054803 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2001.16.6.697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicenter Study on the Prevalence of Perennial Allergic Rhinitis and Allergy-Associated Disorders This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) using the skin test, radioallergosorbent test (RAST), or multiple allergosorbent test (MAST) and to clarify the clinical aspects of the patients diagnosed as having PAR by the questionnaire survey and rhinologic examination. The 71,120 subjects who had visited the 23 otolaryngology clinics at the randomly selected tertiary referral hospitals in Korea between November 1, 1999 and April 30, 2000 were studied. PAR was diagnosed when subjects complained of two or more associated symptoms and the skin test, RAST, or MAST using perennial inhalant allergens was positive. The questionnaire survey and rhinologic examination were performed in subjects with PAR. The prevalence of PAR was 3.93%. We could find no significant difference in the prevalence of PAR between the two sexes. However, there was a significant difference in the prevalence of PAR between the child and adult groups. The chief complaints were, in order of decreasing frequency, nasal obstruction, watery rhinorrhea, and sneezing. There was a family history of PAR in 40.2% of the subjects. The 39.6% of the subjects had associated allergic diseases, being atopic dermatitis most common. In conclusion, the prevalence of PAR in tertiary referral hospitals in Korea is 3.93%. Many subjects with PAR have family history and appear to be associated with other allergic diseases.
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205
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Wong SS, Wong KH, Hui WT, Lee SS, Lo JY, Cao L, Yuen KY. Differences in clinical and laboratory diagnostic characteristics of penicilliosis marneffei in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- and non-HIV-infected patients. J Clin Microbiol 2001; 39:4535-40. [PMID: 11724878 PMCID: PMC88582 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.39.12.4535-4540.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared the clinical and laboratory features of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- and non-HIV-infected patients with penicilliosis marneffei. HIV-infected patients had a higher incidence of fungemia. A total of 85.7% of the HIV-negative patients had underlying diseases including hematologic malignancies or had received therapy with corticosteroids or cytotoxic agents. By a Penicillium marneffei-specific mannoprotein Mp1p enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, serum antigen titers were found to be higher in HIV-positive patients, whereas serum antibody levels were found to be higher in HIV-negative patients.
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Chang KP, Lin SD, Hou MF, Lee SS, Tsai CC. Measurement of the volume of the pedicled TRAM flap in immediate breast reconstruction. Ann Plast Surg 2001; 47:594-601. [PMID: 11756827 DOI: 10.1097/00000637-200112000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap is now accepted as the standard for breast reconstruction, but achieving symmetrical breast reconstruction is still a challenge. A precise estimate of the volume of the flap is necessary to reconstruct a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing breast. Many methods have been developed to overcome this problem, but they have not been suitable for the pedicled TRAM flap. By using a self-made device based on the Archimedes' principle, the authors can calculate accurately the volume of the pedicled TRAM flap and predict reliably the breast volume intraoperatively. The "procedure" is based on a self-made box into which the pedicled TRAM flap is placed. Warm saline is added to the box and the flap is then removed. Flap volume is calculated easily by determining the difference between the preestimated volume of the box and the volume of the residual water. From February to May 2000, this method was used on 28 patients to predict breast volume for breast reconstruction. This study revealed that the difference of the maximal chest circumferences (the index of the breast volume) demonstrates a positive correlation with the difference of the volumes and weights between the mastectomy specimen and the net TRAM flap. However, a more closely positive correlation exists between the differences of maximal chest circumference volume (r = 0.677) than maximal chest circumference weight (r = 0.618). These data reveal that the reconstructed breast's volume has a closer relationship with the volume of the net pedicled TRAM flap, rather than with its weight.
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Lee SS, Kim HK, Choi SC, Lee JI. Granulocytic sarcoma occurring in the maxillary gingiva demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging. ORAL SURGERY, ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL PATHOLOGY, ORAL RADIOLOGY, AND ENDODONTICS 2001; 92:689-93. [PMID: 11740487 DOI: 10.1067/moe.2001.118287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 43-year-old woman presenting with a painless swelling that had developed over 8 months in the maxillary labial vestibule. An oral examination revealed an exophytic, firm, black-pigmented lesion measuring 3.5 x 1.5 cm that bled on palpation. Periapical radiographs showed a slightly enlarged periodontal ligament space of the left central incisor and bone resorption in the region of the missing lateral incisor. Panoramic and other conventional radiographs showed no obvious lytic area, and a magnetic resonance imaging examination demonstrated a low signal intensity lesion on both the T1-weighted and the T2-weighted images. Therefore, granulocytic sarcoma was suspected. Granulocytic sarcoma of the oral cavity is a rare condition, and its diagnosis is usually difficult. Increased awareness of this entity may minimize misinterpretation of radiographic and clinical findings and can assist suitable treatment planning that is essential to this pathosis.
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Kim SW, Son SU, Lee SS, Hyeon T, Chung YK. Colloidal cobalt nanoparticles: a highly active and reusable Pauson-Khand catalyst. Chem Commun (Camb) 2001:2212-3. [PMID: 12240116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
A new Pauson-Khand catalyst based on colloidal cobalt nanoparticles has been developed; the catalyst is highly effective for many intra- and inter-molecular Pauson-Khand reactions and can be recycled and reused many times without losing catalytic activity.
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210
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Yoon I, Park KM, Lee SS, Choi G, Lee JS. Crystal structure of an anthraquinone dye, C.I. disperse violet 27. ANAL SCI 2001; 17:1355-6. [PMID: 11759525 DOI: 10.2116/analsci.17.1355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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211
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Ward CA, Liu H, Lee SS. Altered cellular calcium regulatory systems in a rat model of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Gastroenterology 2001; 121:1209-18. [PMID: 11677214 DOI: 10.1053/gast.2001.28653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Decreased cardiac contractility has been observed in cirrhosis, but the cause remains unclear. Because cardiomyocyte contraction depends on Ca2+ influx entering via L-type Ca2+ channels (I(Ca,L)s) to activate Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, we postulated that the Ca2+ transients may be abnormal in cirrhotic cardiomyocytes. We aimed to investigate the status of the cellular Ca2+-regulatory system in a rat model of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. METHODS Cirrhosis was induced by bile duct ligation. The I(Ca,L) protein expression was detected by Western blotting. Ca2+ currents were measured electrophysiologically. The intracellular Ca2+ system, which includes the ryanodine receptor 2 (RYR2), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-pump adenosine triphosphatase (SERCA2), and Ca2+-binding protein were quantitatively assayed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blots and functionally by 3H-ryanodine binding and radiolabeled Ca2+ uptake. RESULTS I(Ca,L) protein expression was reduced in cirrhotic rats compared with controls, and the peak inward Ca2+ current was significantly less. At all membrane potentials examined, I(Ca,L)s current densities from cirrhotic animals were consistently lower, and the response to maximal isoproterenol stimulation was also significantly lower. Protein expression and messenger RNA transcription for RYR2, SERCA2, and calsequestrin were quantitatively unchanged, and 3H-ryanodine binding characteristics and Ca2+ uptake were also unaltered. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the decreased cardiac contractility in cirrhotic cardiomyocytes is caused by dysfunction of the Ca2+-regulatory system. Plasma membrane I(Ca,L)s are quantitatively reduced and functionally depressed, whereas intracellular systems are intact.
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Lee SS, Joo YS, Kim WU, Min DJ, Min JK, Park SH, Cho CS, Kim HY. Vascular endothelial growth factor levels in the serum and synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2001. [PMID: 11407088 DOI: 10.1002/1529-0131(200105)44:5<1229::aid-anr209>3.0.co;2-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations in serum and synovial fluid (SF) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to search for relationships between VEGF levels and clinical and laboratory variables. METHODS We measured VEGF levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum samples were obtained from 99 RA patients, 49 osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and 80 normal controls. Paired samples of serum and SF were collected from 32 patients with RA and 15 with OA. RESULTS The mean serum VEGF concentration was 590.1 pg/ml for RA patients, 286.7 pg/ml for OA patients, and 265.8 pg/ml in controls. The serum VEGF concentration was significantly higher in the RA patients than in the OA patients or the controls (both p < 0.001). Furthermore, the VEGF levels in SF from RA patients were significantly higher than in SF from OA patients (p = 0.017). However, there was no correlation between VEGF levels in serum and SF from the same RA patients. The serum VEGF concentration was correlated with the ESR, serum CRP concentration, serum rheumatoid factor, number of tender and swollen joints, Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire, and patient and physician global assessments of disease activity in RA patients. CONCLUSION These results suggest that VEGF level is related to RA disease activity, suggesting that VEGF may play some role in the pathogenesis of RA.
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Abstract
Primary care clinicians who provide comprehensive reproductive heath care can now offer patients mifepristone (Mifeprex) as an abortifacient option. Clinicians, however, must first determine if the state in which they practice has regulations specifying who can perform abortions and dispense drugs, and they must consider clinical office zoning ordinances, staffing, public relations issues, and reimbursement. This article discusses the pharmacology of mifepristone and misoprostol, professional considerations, and how to prevent and manage adverse effects and complications of medical abortion.
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Park JI, Nou IS, Lee SS, Kang KK, Watanabe M. Identification of S-genotypes by PCR-RFLP in breeding lines of Brassica. Mol Cells 2001; 12:227-32. [PMID: 11710526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We developed a molecular method for the identification of the S-alleles of Brassicaceae, which belongs to the inbred line. This method is quicker and more precise than the existing methods. The genotype of the S-allele for 20 S-haplotypes of cabbage and 20 S-haplotypes of broccoli was determined by a pollination test. In order to identify the S-alleles, we performed PCR-RFLP with a mixture of the primers that are related to the S-locus glycoprotein (SLG) gene, which corresponds to the results of the pollination test. The selected primers amplified all of the single bands of about 1,150 bp in all 40 lines of cabbage and broccoli. Three out of 20 lines of cabbage were amplified by class I SLG specific primers, whereas all of the lines of the cabbage were amplified by class II SLG specific primers. Therefore, we could not classify class I and class II precisely by the class I and class II primers. However, 15 out of 20 lines of broccoli were amplified by the class I SLG specific primers. The remaining 5 lines were amplified with the class II SLG specific primers. We then digested the amplified PCR products with various restriction endonucleases and chose a restriction endonuclease, which accords exactly with the results of the diallel cross. The best one was HinfI. Its RFLP result was the same as that of the nucleotide sequence analysis. The 40 lines of cabbage and broccoli consisted of 16 different S-haplotypes. Therefore, the PCR-RFLP analysis was quicker and more precise in identifying the characteristics of S-haplotypes that are used in breeding. Also, we were able to check whether the lines could be mixed. The S-genotypes were difficult to determine due to the different flowering time.
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Chang MS, Lee SS, Cunningham ET. Focal retinal phlebitis as a presenting sign of systemic Bartonella henselae infection. Retina 2001; 21:280-1. [PMID: 11421028 DOI: 10.1097/00006982-200106000-00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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217
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Akiyama TE, Nicol CJ, Fievet C, Staels B, Ward JM, Auwerx J, Lee SS, Gonzalez FJ, Peters JM. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha regulates lipid homeostasis, but is not associated with obesity: studies with congenic mouse lines. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:39088-93. [PMID: 11495927 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m107073200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Considerable controversy exists in determining the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPARalpha) in obesity. Two purebred congenic strains of PPARalpha-null mice were developed to study the role of this receptor in modulating lipid transport and storage. Weight gain and average body weight in wild-type and PPARalpha-null mice on either an Sv/129 or a C57BL/6N background were not markedly different between genotypes from 3 to 9 months of age. However, gonadal adipose stores were significantly greater in both strains of male and female PPARalpha-null mice. Hepatic accumulation of lipids was greater in both strains and sexes of PPARalpha-null mice compared with wild-type controls. Administration of the peroxisome proliferator WY-14643 caused hepatomegaly, alterations in mRNAs encoding proteins that regulate lipid metabolism, and reduced serum triglycerides in a PPARalpha-dependent mechanism. Constitutive differences in serum cholesterol and triglycerides in PPARalpha-null mice were found between genetic backgrounds. Results from this work establish that PPARalpha is a critical modulator of lipid homeostasis in two congenic mouse lines. This study demonstrates that disruption of the murine gene encoding PPARalpha results in significant alterations in constitutive serum, hepatic, and adipose tissue lipid metabolism. However, an overt, obese phenotype in either of the two congenic strains was not observed. In contrast to earlier published work, this study establishes that PPARalpha is not associated with obesity in mice.
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218
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Lee SS, He S, Withers SG. Identification of the catalytic nucleophile of the Family 31 alpha-glucosidase from Aspergillus niger via trapping of a 5-fluoroglycosyl-enzyme intermediate. Biochem J 2001; 359:381-6. [PMID: 11583585 PMCID: PMC1222157 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3590381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The mechanism-based reagent 5-fluoro-alpha-d-glucopyranosyl fluoride (5F alpha GlcF) was used to trap a glycosyl-enzyme intermediate and identify the catalytic nucleophile at the active site of Aspergillus niger alpha-glucosidase (Family 31). Incubation of the enzyme with 5F alpha GlcF, followed by peptic proteolysis and comparative liquid chromatography/MS mapping allowed the isolation of a labelled peptide. Fragmentation analysis of this peptide by tandem MS yielded the sequence WYDMSE, with the label located on the aspartic acid residue (D). Comparison with the known protein sequence identified the labelled amino acid as Asp-224 of the P2 subunit.
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Lee SS, Lawton JW, Ko KH, Lam KM, Lin CK. alpha-1 antitrypsin phenotypes by isoelectric focusing in a metropolitan southern Chinese population. J Clin Pathol 2001; 54:798-800. [PMID: 11577132 PMCID: PMC1731279 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.54.10.798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/BACKGROUND alpha-1 antitrypsin (alpha1AT) is an abundant protease inhibitor in human plasma. Its phenotypic variability has been reported to be associated with pulmonary emphysema and chronic liver diseases. However, alpha1AT deficiency is an uncommon condition in the Chinese population. The aim of this study was to describe the phenotypic distribution of alpha1AT in a southern Chinese population. METHODS A total of 1085 healthy blood donors underwent alpha1AT phenotyping by isoelectric focusing. RESULTS Two thirds (66.1%) were homozygous for either M1 or M2, whereas 32.6% were heterozygous for two different M phenotypes. The frequency of allelic variants was only 0.007, and deficiency variants were absent. Compared with earlier studies on southern Chinese populations, this study found a lower frequency of M2, and a higher number of allelic variants, including E, L, N, P, and S. This phenomenon can be attributed to population migration and mixing. CONCLUSIONS An understanding of the alpha1AT pattern is important for evaluating the predisposition of the population to selected clinical diseases.
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Tsai HC, Lee SS, Lin HH, Lu LY, Liu YC. Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in systemic lupus erythematosus: a report of two cases. J Formos Med Assoc 2001; 100:699-702. [PMID: 11760377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have increased susceptibility to infection by Pneumocystis carinii, but this condition has rarely been reported in Taiwan. Here, we describe two cases of patients with SLE who developed Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). The first patient was a 39-year-old woman presenting with fever and dyspnea that had lasted 2 weeks. Chest roentgenography disclosed bilateral interstitial and alveolar infiltrates. The second patient was a 22-year-old woman presenting with a 4-day history of malaise, cough, dyspnea, and fever. She had concomitant Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Both patients had been treated with varying doses of corticosteroids and/or cytotoxic drugs within 4 months before presentation. Diagnosis was established based on the findings of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB). Both patients received trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (20 mg.kg-1.d-1 trimethoprim), but finally died of nosocomial septicemia (Acinetobacter baumanni and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia in one, P. aeruginosa bacteremia in the other). These two cases demonstrate that PCP should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with SLE presenting with pneumonic processes. In addition, a second opportunistic pathogen should be suspected. Bronchoscopic examination should be performed if the diagnosis is not clear and should include TBLB and BAL.
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Kang MJ, Yoon KH, Lee SS, Lee JM, Ahn YB, Chang SA, Kang MI, Cha BY, Lee KW, Son HY, Kang SK, Hong YK. Hypodipsic hypernatremia with intact AVP response to non-osmotic stimuli induced by hypothalamic tumor: a case report. J Korean Med Sci 2001; 16:677-82. [PMID: 11641544 PMCID: PMC3057589 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2001.16.5.677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Anatomical lesions of hypothalamic area associated with hypodipsic hypernatremia have been reported only rarely. We report here a case of hypodipsic hypernatremia induced by a hypothalamic lesion. A 25-yr-old man, who had been treated with radiation for hypothalamic tumor 5-yr before, was admitted for evaluation of hypernatremia and hypokalemia. He never felt thirst despite the elevated plasma osmolality and usually refused to drink intentionally. Plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) level was normal despite the severe hypernatremic hyperosmolar state and urine was not properly concentrated, while AVP secretion was rapidly induced by water deprivation and urine osmolality also progressively increased to the near maximum concentration range. All of these findings were consistent with an isolated defect in osmoregulation of thirst, which was considered as the cause of chronic hypernatremia in the patient without an absolute deficiency in AVP secretion. Hypokalemia could be induced by activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system as a result of volume depletion. However, inappropriately low values of plasma aldosterone levels despite high plasma renin activity could not induce symptomatic hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis. The relatively low serum aldosterone levels compared with high plasma renin activity might result from hypernatremia. Hypernatremia and hypokalemia were gradually corrected by intentional water intake only.
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Lee J, Lee C, Lee SS, Kang SO, Ko J. The first 1,3-digermyla-2-nickela-carboranylene and the Ni-catalyzed double germylation of unsaturated organic substrates. Chem Commun (Camb) 2001:1730-1. [PMID: 12240287 DOI: 10.1039/b105026p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The reaction of o-bis(dimethylgermyl)carborane with Ni(PEt3)4 in pentane affords the reactive intermediate, [o-(GeMe2)2C2B10H10]Ni(PEt3)2 2: the facile double germylation of unsaturated organic substrates catalyzed by 2 is reported.
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Chung WY, Jung YJ, Surh YJ, Lee SS, Park KK. Antioxidative and antitumor promoting effects of [6]-paradol and its homologs. Mutat Res 2001; 496:199-206. [PMID: 11551496 DOI: 10.1016/s1383-5718(01)00221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Recently, considerable attention is focused on anti-carcinogenic phytochemicals, particularly those derived from medicinal or edible plants. [6]-Paradol, a pungent phenolic compound present in certain Zingiberaceae plants, is known to have antimicrobial and analgesic activities. The compound has been reported to attenuate promotion of skin carcinogenesis and TPA-induced ear edema in female ICR mice, and to induce apoptosis in cultured human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells. In this study, we performed several biochemical studies to evaluate and compare the cancer chemopreventive potential of [6]-paradol and its synthetic derivatives. [6]-Paradol and its synthetic nonpungent analog, [6]-dehydroparadol significantly decreased the incidence and the multiplicity of skin tumors initiated by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and promoted by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Topical application of [6]-paradol and its derivatives inhibited TPA-induced ear edema and H(2)O(2) production and myeloperoxidase activity in the dorsal skin of mice. Induction of TPA-induced mouse epidermal ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity and H(2)O(2)- and UV-induced formation of oxidized DNA bases in vitro were also attenuated by the above compounds. These results indicate that [6]-paradol and its derivatives possess the cancer chemopreventive potential.
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224
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Kim MH, Lee SS, Kim CD, Lee SK, Kim HJ, Park HJ, Joo YH, Kim DI, Yoo KS, Seo DW, Min YI. Incomplete pancreas divisum: is it merely a normal anatomic variant without clinical implications? Endoscopy 2001; 33:778-85. [PMID: 11558032 DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-16521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Incomplete pancreas divisum (PD) has been generally regarded as merely a normal anatomic variant, without clinical implications. This study compares the prevalence, symptom occurrence rate, clinical presentation, and outcomes of endoscopic treatment in patients with incomplete PD and those with complete PD. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study population consisted of 56 patients (27 with complete PD and 29 with incomplete PD), identified from 4473 newly performed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography examinations. Endoscopic treatment (minor papilla sphincterotomy with stents or nasopancreatic drainage tube insertion) was attempted in 25 symptomatic patients with PD, which was suspected to be causing the associated pancreatic diseases: acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) (n = 13; five patients with complete PD and eight with incomplete PD); chronic pancreatitis (CP) (n = 10: five patients with complete PD and five with incomplete PD); and pancreatic-type pain (PP) (n = 2; one patient with complete PD and one with incomplete PD). The mean follow-up period was 17 months (range 9 - 49 months). RESULTS In 12 of the 27 patients with complete PD--six with ARP, five with CP, and one with PP--it was suspected that PD was the cause of pancreatic disease. Ten of the 11 symptomatic patients with complete PD underwent successful endoscopic treatment (five with endoscopic minor papilla sphincterotomy and stenting, and five with endoscopic minor papilla sphincterotomy and endoscopic nasopancreatic drainage), and seven of these ten patients benefited from the endoscopic treatment. In 14 of the 29 patients with incomplete PD--eight with ARP, five with CP, and one with PP--it was suspected that pancreas divisum was the cause of pancreatic disease. Thirteen of the 14 symptomatic patients with incomplete PD underwent successful endoscopic treatments (six with endoscopic minor papilla sphincterotomy and stenting, and seven with endoscopic minor papilla sphincterotomy and endoscopic nasopancreatic drainage), and eight of these 13 patients experienced clinical improvement. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence rate, symptom occurrence rate, clinical presentation, and outcomes of endoscopic treatment were similar in patients with complete PD and incomplete PD. Incomplete PD may therefore have similar clinical implications to those of complete PD.
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Kam KM, Leung WL, Wong KH, Lee SS, Hung MY, Kwok MY. Maturational changes in peripheral lymphocyte subsets pertinent to monitoring human immunodeficiency virus-infected Chinese pediatric patients. CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY IMMUNOLOGY 2001; 8:926-31. [PMID: 11527805 PMCID: PMC96173 DOI: 10.1128/cdli.8.5.926-931.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2000] [Accepted: 05/23/2001] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
On the basis of results of testing of 212 peripheral blood samples from ethnic Chinese individuals in five age groups, ranging from birth to adulthood, by standardized flow cytometry techniques, we studied the maturational processes that are pertinent to monitoring the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected Chinese pediatric population. While the numbers of peripheral total white cells and percent lymphocytes declined from birth to adulthood, the percent CD3+ T lymphocytes was steady among all age groups studied. The numbers of CD3+ CD4+ (T-helper) cells decreased markedly after the first year of life, followed by a slower decline afterward and then a slight increase before adulthood. The trend for CD3+ CD8+(T-suppressor) cells, however, was an increase among individuals of all age ranges. The numbers of CD19+ CD3- (B cells) increased only during the first year of life and then declined steadily, while natural killer (NK) cells showed the opposite pattern. Comparison of the results with those of studies done with a Caucasian population showed that both peripheral T-helper and T-suppressor cell numbers were low after the first year of life in the Chinese pediatric population in comparison with those in a Caucasian pediatric population. Lower B-cell counts and higher NK-cell counts were seen after the first year of life in the Chinese population than in the Caucasian population. It is important that for each HIV-infected population normative ranges of the lymphocyte subset be established to monitor HIV-infected pediatric patients.
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226
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Juan CJ, Wu CJ, Chen CY, Lee SS, Chen A, Fan HC. Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney associated with Budd-Chiari syndrome in a 17-year-old girl. J Formos Med Assoc 2001; 100:628-30. [PMID: 11695280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) is a rare and highly malignant neoplasm of the kidney. We report the case of a 17-year-old girl with renal PNET that was complicated by Budd-Chiari syndrome. She was admitted due to abrupt left flank pain and gross hematuria. Abdominal sonography and computerized tomography (CT) disclosed a large hemorrhagic left renal mass and thrombus in the inferior vena cava (IVC). Left radical nephrectomy was performed and renal PNET with tumor rupture and tumor invasion into the IVC was diagnosed based on operative findings and histologic features. Tumor cells were positive for neuronspecific enolase, chromogranin-A, and vimentin but negative for cytokeratin, leukocyte common antigen, CD3, and CD20. The thrombus in the IVC extended into the right atrium and caused obstruction of the right and middle hepatic venous outflow, which was evident on follow-up CT scan 5 months later. The patient died due to hepatic failure and progressive cardiovascular compromise 6 months after surgery. This case demonstrates that renal PNET can be life threatening when the tumor thrombus extends into the IVC and causes hepatic outflow obstruction.
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227
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Surh YJ, Chun KS, Cha HH, Han SS, Keum YS, Park KK, Lee SS. Molecular mechanisms underlying chemopreventive activities of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals: down-regulation of COX-2 and iNOS through suppression of NF-kappa B activation. Mutat Res 2001; 480-481:243-68. [PMID: 11506818 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-5107(01)00183-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1120] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A wide array of phenolic substances, particularly those present in edible and medicinal plants, have been reported to possess substantial anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic activities. The majority of naturally occurring phenolics retain antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties which appear to contribute to their chemopreventive or chemoprotective activity. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inducible and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) are important enzymes that mediate inflammatory processes. Improper up-regulation of COX-2 and/or iNOS has been associated with pathophysiology of certain types of human cancers as well as inflammatory disorders. Since inflammation is closely linked to tumor promotion, substances with potent anti-inflammatory activities are anticipated to exert chemopreventive effects on carcinogenesis, particularly in the promotion stage. Examples are curcumin, a yellow pigment of turmeric (Curcuma longa L., Zingiberaceae), the green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol from grapes (Vitis vinifera, Vitaceae) that strongly suppress tumor promotion. Recent studies have demonstrated that eukaryotic transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is involved in regulation of COX-2 and iNOS expression. Several chemopreventive phytochemicals have been shown to inhibit COX-2 and iNOS expression by blocking improper NF-kappa B activation. Multiple lines of compelling evidence indicate that extracellular-regulated protein kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase are key elements of the intracellular signaling cascades responsible for NF-kappa B activation in response to a wide array of external stimuli. Curcumin, EGCG and resveratrol have been shown to suppress activation of NF-kappa B. One of the plausible mechanisms underlying inhibition of NF-kappa B activation by aforementioned phytochemicals involves repression of degradation of the inhibitory unit I kappa B alpha, which hampers subsequent nuclear translocation of the functionally active subunit of NF-kappa B.
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228
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Ree HJ, Yang WI, Kim CW, Huh J, Lee SS, Cho EY, Ko YH, Charney D. Coexpression of Bcl-6 and CD10 in diffuse large B-cell lymphomas: significance of Bcl-6 expression patterns in identifying germinal center B-cell lymphoma. Hum Pathol 2001; 32:954-62. [PMID: 11567225 DOI: 10.1053/hupa.2001.27118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Most follicular lymphomas (FLs) transform to diffuse lymphoma eventually, comprising a significant proportion of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Judging by bcl-2 rearrangement (bcl-2R), one third of DLBCLs are believed to be of FL derivation in the Western population. However, bcl-2R is not specific and is not detectable in every case of FL. In East Asia, FL is uncommon but DLBCL is not. The proportion of tumors of FL origin in DLBCL is not known in this region. The coexpression of Bcl-6 and CD10 proteins, a reliable marker to identify germinal center (GC) B-cell lymphoma including FL, was analyzed in primary nodal DLBCLs (n = 104) diagnosed at major hospitals in Seoul during a recent 2-year period, along with well-defined cases (n = 17) of nodal FL as controls. Bcl-2 protein expression (n = 77) was also studied along with bcl-2R (n = 64), by polymerase chain reaction. Formalin-fixed archival specimens were used in all these assays. The Bcl-6/CD10 coexpression was observed in 35 DLBCLs (34%) and 14 FLs (82%), and most of them showed a pattern of Bcl-6 expression similar to that of the GC. Bcl-2 expression or bcl-2R did not correlate with Bcl-6/CD10 coexpression. Histologically, compartmentalizing sclerosis was associated with a high rate of the coexpression (8 of 10). In conclusion, to detect GC B-cell lymphoma in routine biopsy specimens, a pattern of Bcl-6 staining similar to the GC must be identified. Bcl-6+/CD10+ GC B-cell lymphomas thus defined comprised one third of primary nodal DLBCLs in Korea. The incidence rate is similar to that in the West. The reasons for the discrepancy between the incidence of GC B-cell lymphoma and the paucity of the follicular pattern in East Asian subjects warrant further studies.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Child
- DNA, Neoplasm/analysis
- DNA-Binding Proteins/biosynthesis
- DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics
- Female
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
- Gene Rearrangement
- Germinal Center/metabolism
- Germinal Center/pathology
- Hospitals, Teaching
- Humans
- Korea/epidemiology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/epidemiology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/metabolism
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/pathology
- Lymphoma, Follicular/epidemiology
- Lymphoma, Follicular/genetics
- Lymphoma, Follicular/metabolism
- Lymphoma, Follicular/pathology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/epidemiology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/metabolism
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/pathology
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neprilysin/biosynthesis
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/biosynthesis
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-6
- Transcription Factors/biosynthesis
- Transcription Factors/genetics
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229
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Myers RP, Swain MG, Urbanski SJ, Lee SS. Reactivation of hepatitis B e antigen-negative chronic hepatitis B in a bone marrow transplant recipient following lamivudine withdrawal. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2001; 15:599-603. [PMID: 11573103 DOI: 10.1155/2001/378980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a recognized complication of bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Lamivudine is a nucleoside analogue with potent antiviral activity that has been used in the prophylaxis of HBV reactivation in at-risk BMT recipients. Currently, no data exist regarding the safety of nucleoside analogue withdrawal in these patients. A 32-year-old BMT recipient with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative, chronic HBV who developed a serious flare of hepatic inflammation due to a rebound in viral replication within 12 weeks of discontinuing lamivudine therapy is described. The patient remained HBeAg-negative despite high level viremia, suggesting the emergence of a mutant viral strain. The patient's acute hepatitis resolved promptly with the reinstitution of lamivudine therapy. Further studies are necessary to define the safety and efficacy of nucleoside analogues in the prevention of HBV reactivation in at-risk BMT recipients. Clinicians should consider the risk of inducing serious flares of hepatic inflammation due to abrupt nucleoside analogue withdrawal in these patients.
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230
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Choi SH, Lee SS, Choi SI, Kim ST, Lim KH, Lim CH, Weinmann HJ, Lim TH. Occlusive myocardial infarction: investigation of bis-gadolinium mesoporphyrins-enhanced T1-weighted MR imaging in a cat model. Radiology 2001; 220:436-40. [PMID: 11477248 DOI: 10.1148/radiology.220.2.r01au04436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To test whether bis-gadolinium mesoporphyrins-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can accurately depict irreversibly damaged myocardium in occlusive myocardial infarction. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten cats were subjected to 90 minutes of occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Bis-gadolinium mesoporphyrins-enhanced T1-weighted MR imaging was performed in the cats for 6 hours. Histopathologic examinations with 2'3'5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and electron microscopy were performed on the resected specimens. The time course and pattern of signal intensity enhancement were evaluated. The size of the infarcted myocardium was estimated on the MR images by measuring the size of the signal intensity-enhanced area. RESULTS In eight of 10 cats, it was impossible to distinguish infarcted myocardium from normal myocardium at visual inspection of T1-weighted MR images. The contrast ratio between infarcted and normal myocardium did not increase significantly over time. In one of the two remaining cats, a doughnut pattern of signal intensity enhancement was noted. The other cat showed intensely homogeneous enhancement of infarcted myocardium at MR imaging. The size of the area of signal intensity enhancement at MR imaging in these two cats was accurately mapped to that of the infarction on the TTC-stained specimens. CONCLUSION Occlusive myocardial infarction cannot be accurately detected at bis-gadolinium mesoporphyrins-enhanced MR imaging.
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231
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Tsai HC, Liu YC, Kunin CM, Lee SS, Chen YS, Lin HH, Tsai TH, Lin WR, Huang CK, Yen MY, Yen CM. Eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis: report of 17 cases. Am J Med 2001; 111:109-14. [PMID: 11498063 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9343(01)00766-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe two outbreaks of Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection that occurred in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, during 1998 and 1999, and to characterize the source of the outbreaks and the clinical manifestations of the disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study among Thai laborers with eosinophilic meningitis who ate raw snails (Ampullarium canaliculatus), as well as an environmental surveillance of larvae in snails. RESULTS We enrolled 17 Thai laborers in whom severe headache and eosinophilia developed within 4 to 23 days after eating raw snails. Twelve (71%) developed eosinophilic meningitis. Third-stage larvae were found in the cerebrospinal fluids of 2 patients and in all 12 tested snails. Specific antibodies to A. cantonensis were detected in serum from 16 of the patients and in cerebrospinal fluid from 5 of the patients. Central nervous system manifestations included headache (n = 17 [100%]), fever (n = 11 [65%]), Brudzinski's sign/stiff neck (n = 11 [65%]), hyperesthesia (n = 3 [18%]), cranial nerve palsy (n = 2 [12%]), diplopia (n = 2 [12%]), and ataxia (n = 1 [6%]). Laboratory findings included peripheral eosinophilia (n = 15 [88%]) and cerebrospinal fluid eosinophilia (n = 12 [71%]); elevated immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels (n = 13 [100%]); and transient increases in white blood cell count (n = 7 [41%]) and in serum levels of creatine kinase (n = 7 [41%]), transaminase (n = 3 [18%]), and lactate dehydrogenase (n = 2 [12%]). The severity of illness and eosinophilia were correlated with the number of ingested snails. Meningeal and basal ganglion enhancement was noted on magnetic resonance imaging in several patients. Treatment with mebendazole combined with glucocorticosteroids appeared to shorten the course of the infection, but not the number of relapses. The eosinophil count fell to normal within 3 months, but IgE levels remained elevated for as long as 6 months. All patients recovered with minimal neurologic sequelae. CONCLUSION Eosinophilic meningitis caused by A. cantonensis should be considered in patients who have headache or central nervous system manifestations after eating raw snails.
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232
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Lee SS, Ha JK, Cheng KJ. The effects of sequential inoculation of mixed rumen protozoa on the degradation of orchard grass cell walls by anaerobic fungus Anaeromyces mucronatus 543. Can J Microbiol 2001; 47:754-60. [PMID: 11575502 DOI: 10.1139/w01-076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The effects of protozoa on the degradation of plant cell walls (CW) during different growth stages of the fungus Anaeromyces mucronatus have been investigated. Since fungi show a marked lag in their in vitro cultures and many protozoa rapidly die during a prolonged incubation time, the effects of protozoa may vary according to the growth phase of the fungi. Therefore, the approach adopted was (i) to inoculate CW with fungus monoculture, (ii) to inoculate CW with fungus-protozoa coculture, or (iii) to sequentially inoculate fungal cultures that had been grown in CW for 24 (initial stage of growth), 48, and 72 h (late stage of growth) with mixed protozoa. When a fungus was associated with protozoa, a growth phase dependent effect was observed. Ruminal protozoa adversely affected the growth and activity when introduced in the initial growth stage of A. mucronatus, but a synergetic interaction was detected when added to late growth stage cultures. Although there is no immediate explanation for these results, the data suggested that protozoa can engulf the fungal zoospores, which are in ruminal fluids and (or) attached to small feed particles, but cannot engulf the fungal thallus that is tightly attached to feed particles by a rhizoidal system. Our data indicated that the protozoa did not influence cellulolysis by the fungi in exponential and (or) stationary phase, but they had a marked inhibitory effect on fungi that were in lag phase. Inhibition during lag phase could result from the protozoal predation of fungal zoospores that had failed to attach to substrates.
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233
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Heo MS, Lee SC, Lee SS, Choi HM, Choi SC, Park TW. Quantitative analysis of normal major salivary glands using computed tomography. ORAL SURGERY, ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL PATHOLOGY, ORAL RADIOLOGY, AND ENDODONTICS 2001; 92:240-4. [PMID: 11505274 DOI: 10.1067/moe.2001.114756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to calculate the size and the computed tomography (CT) number of normal parotid and submandibular glands and to evaluate their relationship with respect to sex, age, and obesity in the Korean population. STUDY DESIGN The authors investigated the axial CT images of 42 healthy volunteers. The maximum cross-sectional area (MCSA) was used as an indicator of the size of the gland. Three regions of interest on axial scans were selected to calculate the mean CT number. RESULTS There was a significant decrease in the mean MCSA of the submandibular gland and the CT number of both glands with age. The MCSA of the submandibular gland in males was larger than that in females. There was a close correlation between the parotid and the submandibular glands with respect to the CT number, as well as between the left and right glands with respect to the MCSA and the CT number. The body mass index was positively correlated with the MCSA of the parotid gland, whereas the body mass indexes and the CT numbers of both glands were negatively correlated. CONCLUSIONS Both age and obesity are closely correlated with the size and the CT number of the major salivary glands. Moreover, the correlation between the CT numbers of the parotid and the submandibular glands may be used for diagnostic purposes.
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234
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Kim DI, Kim MH, Lee SK, Seo DW, Choi WB, Lee SS, Park HJ, Joo YH, Yoo KS, Kim HJ, Min YI, Chol WB. Risk factors for recurrence of primary bile duct stones after endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy. Gastrointest Endosc 2001; 54:42-8. [PMID: 11427840 DOI: 10.1067/mge.2001.115335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EST) is a well-established procedure for bile duct stone extraction. Bile duct stones can be classified as primary or secondary. However, few data are available on the recurrence of primary and secondary bile duct stones after EST. Therefore risk factors for the recurrence of primary bile duct stones after EST were prospectively studied. METHODS Between 1991 and 1997, 61 patients underwent EST for primary bile duct stones. All met the following criteria: (1) previous cholecystectomy without bile duct exploration, (2) detection of bile duct stones at least 2 years after initial cholecystectomy. Mean follow-up was 2.2 years. Fourteen patients were lost to follow-up. The recurrence of primary bile duct stones was defined as the detection of bile duct stones no sooner than 6 months after complete clearance of primary bile duct stones. RESULTS The overall recurrence rate of primary bile duct stones was 21% (10 of 47). Two significant risk factors for recurrence were identified by multivariate analysis: (1) patients with a bile duct diameter of 13 mm or greater after stone removal had recurrences more frequently than those with a duct diameter of 13 mm or less, and (2) patients whose papilla was located on the inner rim or deep within a diverticulum, so that the papillary orifice was not visible endoscopically, had more frequent recurrences than patients with a papilla outside the diverticulum, or no peripapillary diverticulum. CONCLUSION The independent risk factors for recurrence of primary bile duct stones were sustained dilation of the bile duct even after complete removal of stones and location of the papilla on the inner rim or deep within a diverticulum.
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235
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Huang TS, Chen CS, Lee SS, Huang WK, Liu YC. Comparison of the BACTEC MGIT 960 and BACTEC 460TB systems for detection of mycobacteria in clinical specimens. ANNALS OF CLINICAL AND LABORATORY SCIENCE 2001; 31:279-83. [PMID: 11508832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
The reliability of the Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) 960 system for rapid detection of mycobacteria in clinical specimens was evaluated and compared to the radiometric method (BACTEC 460TB) and to mycobacterial culture on Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) medium. Clinical specimens (n = 590) were tested without selection. A total of 121 (20.5%) isolates of mycobacteria were recovered; 98 (81.0%) of them were recovered with the BACTEC 460TB system, 86 (71.1%) were recovered with the BACTEC MGIT 960 system, and 55 (45.5%) were recovered with LJ medium (MGIT 960 versus BACTEC 640TB, p >0.05; MGIT 960 or BACTEC 460TB versus LJ, p <0.001). The mean time to detection (TTD) was 18 da for BACTEC 460 TB, and 13 da for BACTEC MGIT 960. The mean time to detection in each system, based upon data where both systems were culture positive, was significantly different (16.6 da for BACTEC 460TB and 13 da for BACTEC MGIT 960, p<0.001). The contamination rate of the BACTEC MGIT 960 system was 13.2%, which was intermediate between the BACTEC 460TB system (11.7%) and the LJ medium (14.7%). These data indicate that the fully automated MGIT 960 system is an accurate, non-radiometric alternative to the BACTEC 460TB method for rapid detection of mycobacteria in a clinical setting.
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236
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Lee TH, Lee SS, Kuo YC, Chou CH. Monoterpene glycosides and triterpene acids from Eriobotrya deflexa. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2001; 64:865-869. [PMID: 11473413 DOI: 10.1021/np0100237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
A phytochemical study on a methanolic extract of leaves of Eriobotrya deflexa led to the isolation and characterization of nine terpenoid compounds. Four of these are new chemical entities, including two monoterpene glycosides, (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(E)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool (1) and (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(Z)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool (2), and two triterpene acids, 1beta,2alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-3-oxo-12-ursen-28-oic acid (3) and 2alpha,3alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid (4). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. The activities of these isolates in an in vitro antiproliferation test were also determined.
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MESH Headings
- Acyclic Monoterpenes
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/blood
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/chemistry
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/isolation & purification
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/blood
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/isolation & purification
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/isolation & purification
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
- Glycosides/blood
- Glycosides/chemistry
- Glycosides/isolation & purification
- Glycosides/pharmacology
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Leukocytes, Mononuclear/drug effects
- Macrophages/drug effects
- Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
- Molecular Structure
- Monoterpenes
- Plant Leaves/chemistry
- Plants, Medicinal/chemistry
- Stereoisomerism
- Terpenes/blood
- Terpenes/chemistry
- Terpenes/isolation & purification
- Terpenes/pharmacology
- Triterpenes/blood
- Triterpenes/chemistry
- Triterpenes/isolation & purification
- Triterpenes/pharmacology
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237
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Myers RP, Hilsden RJ, Lee SS. Historical features are poor predictors of liver fibrosis in Canadian patients with chronic hepatitis C. J Viral Hepat 2001; 8:249-55. [PMID: 11454175 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2893.2001.00288.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The progression of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C infection (HCV) is related to host factors including age, gender and alcohol consumption. Due to the morbidity and potential mortality of liver biopsy, a noninvasive method of assessing hepatic fibrosis is needed. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of historical features in predicting fibrosis using published rates of fibrosis progression. The charts of 239 untreated patients with HCV were reviewed; patients who had a liver biopsy and whose duration of infection could be estimated (n=106) were categorized according to gender, age at infection (< or = or > 40 years) and peak alcohol consumption (< or > or = 50 g/day). Estimates of fibrosis were calculated using the product of the interval between infection and biopsy and published rates of fibrosis progression. Estimates were compared with liver biopsies staged according to the Metavir system (F0-F4; F0=no fibrosis; F4= cirrhosis). The mean age of patients was 42 +/- 8 years, 61% were male and 36% consumed > 50 g of alcohol daily. The mean duration of infection was 19 +/- 9 years (range, 1-40) and ALT was elevated > 1.5 times upper normal in 63%. When patients were classified into those with mild (F0-F2) and severe (F3-F4) fibrosis, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of an estimate of mild fibrosis was 60%, 55%, 78% and 34%, respectively. An estimate of severe fibrosis had a sensitivity of 55%, specificity of 60%, positive predictive value of 34% and negative predictive value of 78%. Agreement between fibrosis estimates and actual histological stages was poor (kappa = 0.13, P=0.08). The prediction of hepatic fibrosis in HCV infection using historical features and published rates of fibrosis progression is poor in a Canadian clinical practice setting. Alternate noninvasive methods of predicting hepatic fibrosis are needed.
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Lee SS, Lee JJ, Cheong MJ, Kim YH, Kim Y, Yun YP, Lee CK, Lee MK. Inhibitory effects of ethaverine, a homologue of papaverine, on monoamine oxidase activity in mouse brain. Biol Pharm Bull 2001; 24:838-40. [PMID: 11456127 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.24.838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The effects of benzylisoquinoline compounds such as ethaverine, laudanosine, and tetrahydropapaverine on monoamine oxidase (MAO, EC 1.4.3.4) activity in mouse brain were investigated. Ethaverine showed an inhibition of MAO activity in a concentration-dependent manner (57.6% inhibition at 40 microm). Papaverine also inhibited MAO activity (38.1% inhibition at 40 microM). However, laudanosine and tetrahydropapaverine did not inhibit MAO activity. The IC50 value of ethaverine for MAO was 25.5 microm. Ethaverine non-competitively inhibited MAO activity with a substrate kynuramine. The Ki value for ethaverine was 11.9 microM. In addition, ethaverine proved to preferentially inhibit type B MAO activity in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 value of 32.8 microm. These results suggest that ethaverine partially contributes to the regulation of catecholamine content.
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Lee SS. Effective screening for Alzheimer's disease in everyday practice. JAAPA 2001; 14:39-48. [PMID: 11517820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
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Wong J, Zhang Y, Lee SS. Hemodynamic characterization of arterialized and nonarterialized liver transplants in the rat. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2001; 15:435-40. [PMID: 11493948 DOI: 10.1155/2001/190508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Persistent hyperkinetic circulation after liver transplantation has been described in humans, but similar changes have not been well characterized in the rat model. This study aimed to investigate the hemodynamics of the systemic and splanchnic circulations in both arterialized and nonarterialized hepatic allografts. Orthotopic liver transplantation was performed in four groups of Sprague-Dawley rats. Group A comprised sham-operated rats with hepatic artery ligation that did not receive transplants; group B comprised rats that received transplants without arterialization; group C comprised sham-operated rats with intact hepatic artery that did not receive transplants; and group D comprised rats that received transplants with arterialization. Blood flow measurements were performed three weeks after the surgical procedure, using the radioactive microsphere method. The results showed that rats that received transplants exhibited a significantly higher cardiac index and lower systemic vascular resistance than the control rats. Splanchnic hyperemia was also present with increased mesenteric blood flow. However, there was no difference in hemodynamics between rats that received arterialized transplants and those that received nonarterialized transplants. Arterial collateral vessels from adjacent tissues were observed in the nonarterialized grafts; this was confirmed histologically. It is concluded that rats that undergo orthotopic liver transplantation exhibit hyperdynamic circulation, regardless of the arterial reconstruction procedure, possibly due to extensive collateral formation in the hepatosplanchnic circulation.
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Myoung H, Kim YY, Heo MS, Lee SS, Choi SC, Kim MJ. Comparative radiologic study of bone density and cortical thickness of donor bone used in mandibular reconstruction. ORAL SURGERY, ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL PATHOLOGY, ORAL RADIOLOGY, AND ENDODONTICS 2001; 92:23-9. [PMID: 11458242 DOI: 10.1067/moe.2001.115027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the total cancellous bone density, bone-implant interface density, and cortical thickness of 6 donor bone types commonly used in oral and maxillofacial reconstruction. METHODS A total of 120 bones from 20 Korean adults-including iliac bones, fibulas, cranial bones, scapulas, ribs, and clavicles-were selected. The implant recipient site was determined by the shape, contour, and anatomical limitations of the bones. The serial cross-sectional images of each bone were then acquired through computed tomography. Total cancellous bone density, bone-implant interface density around the imaginary implant fixture, and the cortical thickness along both sides of the imaginary fixture on each cross-sectional image were evaluated and compared. RESULTS The cancellous bone density of each donor bone type had a statistically significant difference. The cranial bone showed the highest cancellous bone density, followed by the iliac bone, clavicle, scapula, rib, and fibula (P <.05). The bone-implant interface density of the cranial bone, clavicle, fibula, and scapula each belonged to the same Duncan's group, whereas the rib and iliac bone showed lower bone-implant interface density. In average cortical thickness, the scapula and fibula had a thicker cortex surrounding the imaginary implant than the other bones, and the rib had the thinnest cortex. CONCLUSION Although more extensive testing is needed to explain the clinical implications of these results, the findings of this study may help clinicians choose the most appropriate donor bone.
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Lee SS, Lawton JW, Ko KH. Alpha1 antitrypsin phenotypic variability is not associated with ANCA in southern Chinese. Ann Rheum Dis 2001; 60:725-6. [PMID: 11436866 PMCID: PMC1753732 DOI: 10.1136/ard.60.7.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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243
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Lee SS, Mahar AT, Newton PO. Ender nail fixation of pediatric femur fractures: a biomechanical analysis. J Pediatr Orthop 2001; 21:442-5. [PMID: 11433153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARY Biomechanical testing was performed to determine the effects of flexible intramedullary nail fixation on simulated transverse and comminuted midshaft femur fractures using two Ender nails. A synthetic adolescent-size femur model was used. The axial and rotational stiffness values for the simulated comminuted fracture were equivalent to those of the transverse fracture under "touch-down weight-bearing" loads. These data suggest that length and rotational control of comminuted midshaft femur fractures with two divergent Ender nails may be sufficient for early mobilization.
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Ye YN, Liu ES, Li Y, So HL, Cho CC, Sheng HP, Lee SS, Cho CH. Protective effect of polysaccharides-enriched fraction from Angelica sinensis on hepatic injury. Life Sci 2001; 69:637-46. [PMID: 11476185 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(01)01153-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A polysaccharides-enriched fraction from the root of Angelica sinensis, which is known for its antiulcer action on the gastrointestinal tract, was isolated and studied for its hepato-protective effect in rodents. Intra-gastric administration of Angelica sinensis polysaccharides-enriched fraction (AP) at the doses of 50 or 75 mg/kg dose-dependently prevented liver toxicity induced by acetaminophen in mice but did not affect the serum acetaminophen concentration. It normalized the rises of serum alanine transferase (ALT) and hepatic nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activities and the decrease of glutathione level in the liver. It also reduced the hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. The protective effect was less evident in the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated animals including mice and rats. In the rat the elevated serum ALT level was unaffected though the MDA level was similarly reduced by the higher dose of AP. In these animals, CCl4 increased the hepatic glutathione level instead while the NOS activity remained unchanged. These findings suggest that the pathogenic mechanisms of both acetaminophen and CCl4 are different. AP is more effective in the protection against liver damage induced by acetaminophen, which is associated with the glutathione depletion and nitric oxide synthase activation in the liver.
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Ehses JA, Lee SS, Pederson RA, McIntosh CH. A new pathway for glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor signaling: evidence for the involvement of phospholipase A2 in GIP-stimulated insulin secretion. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:23667-73. [PMID: 11323439 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m103023200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The hormone glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is an important regulator of insulin secretion. GIP has been shown to increase adenylyl cyclase activity, elevate intracellular Ca(2+) levels, and stimulate a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in the pancreatic beta-cell. In the current study we demonstrate a role for arachidonic acid in GIP-mediated signal transduction. Static incubations revealed that both GIP (100 nm) and ATP (5 microm) significantly increased [(3)H]arachidonic acid ([(3)H]AA) efflux from transfected Chinese hamster ovary K1 cells expressing the GIP receptor (basal, 128 +/- 11 cpm/well; GIP, 212 +/- 32 cpm/well; ATP, 263 +/- 35 cpm/well; n = 4; p < 0.05). In addition, GIP receptors were shown for the first time to be capable of functionally coupling to AA production through Gbetagamma dimers in Chinese hamster ovary K1 cells. In a beta-cell model (betaTC-3), GIP was found to elicit [(3)H]AA release, independent of glucose, in a concentration-dependent manner (EC(50) value of 1.4 +/- 0.62 nm; n = 3). Although GIP did not potentiate insulin release under extracellular Ca(2+)-free conditions, it was still capable of elevating intracellular cAMP and stimulating [(3)H]AA release. Our data suggest that cAMP is the proximal signaling intermediate responsible for GIP-stimulated AA release. Finally, stimulation of GIP-mediated AA production was shown to be mediated via a Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2). Arachidonic acid is therefore a new component of GIP-mediated signal transduction in the beta-cell.
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Moe GR, Zuno-Mitchell P, Lee SS, Lucas AH, Granoff DM. Functional activity of anti-Neisserial surface protein A monoclonal antibodies against strains of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B. Infect Immun 2001; 69:3762-71. [PMID: 11349041 PMCID: PMC98387 DOI: 10.1128/iai.69.6.3762-3771.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neisserial surface protein A (NspA) is currently being investigated with humans as a candidate vaccine for the prevention of meningococcal disease. Although NspA is highly conserved, the ability of anti-NspA antibodies to bind to or elicit complement-mediated bactericidal activity against diverse Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B strains is controversial. To evaluate strain differences in NspA surface accessibility and susceptibility to bactericidal activity, we prepared murine immunoglobulin G2a anti-NspA monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) and evaluated their functional activity against 10 genetically diverse N. meningitidis serogroup B strains. By colony Western blot, all 10 strains expressed NspA as detected by one or more MAbs. By flow cytometry, two MAbs were found to bind to the bacterial surface of 6 of the 10 strains. In addition, two strains showed variable NspA surface accessibility for the MAbs despite being uniformly positive for NspA expression by colony Western blotting. Only 4 of the 10 strains were susceptible to anti-NspA complement-mediated bacteriolysis. Passively administered MAb protected infant rats from developing bacteremia after challenge with N. meningitidis serogroup B strain 8047 (surface binding positive, susceptible to anti-NspA bacteriolysis), was poorly protective against strain BZ232 (surface binding variable, resistant to bacteriolysis), and did not protect against strain M986 (surface binding negative, resistant to bacteriolysis). Finally, NspA does not appear to be critical for causing bacteremia, as an NspA knockout from strain 8047 was highly virulent in infant rats. Taken together, these findings suggest that an NspA-based vaccine will need to incorporate additional antigens to elicit broad protection against N. meningitidis serogroup B.
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Lin WR, Lin HH, Lee SS, Tsai HC, Huang CK, Wann SR, Chen YS, Chiang SC, Yen MY, Liu YC. Comparative study of the efficacy and safety of valaciclovir versus acyclovir in the treatment of herpes zoster. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2001; 34:138-42. [PMID: 11456360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Acyclovir, a specific and selective inhibitor of the replication of Herpesviridae family, has well-documented efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of herpes zoster. Its limited oral bioavailability and short half-life, however, necessitates frequent dosing. Valaciclovir, the l-valyl ester of acyclovir, could be rapidly converted to acyclovir after oral administration, resulting in a three- to five-fold increase in acyclovir bioavailability compared with oral acyclovir in humans. Valaciclovir allows less frequent dosing and maintains the safety profiles of the parent drug. During the period from October 1996 through May 1998, a randomized, prospective study was performed in the Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital to compare the safety and efficacy of valaciclovir with acyclovir in the treatment of herpes zoster in Taiwanese patients. Patients presenting with herpes zoster within 72 h after the onset of rash were enrolled and randomized to receive one of the following treatments: 1000 mg valaciclovir three times daily for 7 days or acyclovir 800 mg five times daily for 7 days. Patients were followed up for 29 days beginning with the start of therapy. A total of 57 patients were enrolled and randomized to receive valaciclovir (n = 32) or acyclovir (n = 25). Five patients in the valaciclovir group and three in the acyclovir group did not complete the study. The intent-to-treat analysis (57 patients) showed that valaciclovir significantly accelerated the resolution of herpes zoster-associated pain compared with acyclovir; on day 29, the valaciclovir group was 23% superior to the acyclovir group. There was no clinically significant difference in the nature, frequency or severity of adverse events between these two groups, although one and three adverse events were reported in the acyclovir and valaciclovir group, respectively. Thus, we conclude that in the management of herpes zoster, valaciclovir accelerates the resolution of pain and offers a simpler dosing, and maintains the favorable safety profile of acyclovir.
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Koh Y, Lee YM, Lim CM, Lee SS, Shim TS, Lee SD, Kim WS, Kim DS, Kim WD. Effects of heat pretreatment on histopathology, cytokine production, and surfactant in endotoxin-induced acute lung injury. Inflammation 2001; 25:187-96. [PMID: 11403210 DOI: 10.1023/a:1011040515262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
To determine the effect of heat stress on histopathology of acute lung injury (ALI) caused by administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and to determine the roles of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, interferon (IFN)-gamma, IL-10 and surfactants in heat-induced tolerance to ALI, we administered either saline or LPS (3 mg/kg of body weight) intravenously to male Sprague-Dawley rats without and with heat pretreatment. Five hours after LPS or saline treatment (23 h after heat-pretreatment), samples were obtained. We found that the histopathologic features of LPS-induced ALI were attenuated by heat-pretreatment. Heat-pretreatment did not decrease the elevated plasma or BAL fluid levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IFN-gamma by LPS. The plasma level of IL-10 in LPS-treated rats with heat-pretreatment, however, was increased compared to that of LPS-treated rats without heat-pretreatment (P = 0.001). There were no differences in the BAL fluid concentrations of light or heavy density pulmonary surfactant phospholipids depending on heat-pretreatment in LPS-treated rats. These observations suggest that IL-10 might play a role in decreasing LPS-induced acute lung injury after heat-pretreatment.
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Tang HJ, Li CM, Yen MY, Chen YS, Wann SR, Lin HH, Lee SS, Liu YC. Clinical characteristics of emphysematous pyelonephritis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2001; 34:125-30. [PMID: 11456358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
A total of 21 patients (20 women and one man) with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN), treated in the Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital during the period from 1991 through 1999 were included in this study. All of the patients were diabetic. The most common symptoms or signs were fever/chills (80%) and costovertebral angle knocking pain (71%). Diagnosis was confirmed by the presence of gas in the parenchyma or paranephric space on plain X-ray of the abdomen or computed tomography. The left kidney (11 cases, 52%) was more frequently affected than the right one (nine cases, 43%), and both kidneys were involved in one case. Obstruction of the corresponding renoureteral unit was found in 19% of the patients, and renal or ureteral stone was found in 23% of the patients. One third of the patients had type I EPN, and two-thirds had type II EPN. Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated organism, accounting for 61%, 76%, and 47% of isolates from blood, urine, and aspirated pus culture respectively. Prompt control of blood sugar was begun and intravenous antibiotics were given. Drainage was performed in 71% of the patients, and two persons required nephrectomy because of poor control of the infection or complications. Overall survival was 72%. Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a rare, life-threatening, suppurative infection of the renal parenchyma and perirenaL tissues. For successful management of EPN, appropriate medical treatment should be initiated, and immediate nephrectomy or drainage should not be delayed.
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