Haploinsufficiency of CBFA2 causes familial thrombocytopenia with propensity to develop acute myelogenous leukaemia

Familial platelet disorder with predisposition to acute myelogenous leukaemia (FPD/AML, MIM 601399) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by qualitative and quantitative platelet defects, and propensity to develop acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML). Informative recombination events in 6 FPD/AML pedigrees with evidence of linkage to markers on chromosome 21q identified an 880-kb interval containing the disease gene. Mutational analysis of regional candidate genes showed nonsense mutations or intragenic deletion of one allele of the haematopoietic transcription factor CBFA2 (formerly AML1) that co-segregated with the disease in four FPD/AML pedigrees. We identified heterozygous CBFA2 missense mutations that co-segregated with the disease in the remaining two FPD/AML pedigrees at phylogenetically conserved amino acids R166 and R201, respectively. Analysis of bone marrow or peripheral blood cells from affected FPD/AML individuals showed a decrement in megakaryocyte colony formation, demonstrating that CBFA2 dosage affects megakaryopoiesis. Our findings support a model for FPD/AML in which haploinsufficiency of CBFA2 causes an autosomal dominant congenital platelet defect and predisposes to the acquisition of additional mutations that cause leukaemia.

[Supercritical-CO2 fluid extraction of fatty oils from Perilla frutescens seeds and pharmacological study]

Fatty oils from the seeds of Perilla frutescens were extracted by supercritical-CO2 fluid or petroleum ether and its quality was analyzed by GC-MS method. Pharmacological action of lowering blood-lipid for the oils was studied. The results showed that the technology of supercritical-CO2 extraction of the oils of P. frutescens seeds is superior than that of petroleum ether and the oil from SFE-CO2 have the action of lowering blood-lipid with low toxicity.

[Effects of long-term exposure to lower concentration of carbon disulfide on cardiovascular system of workers in a viscose rayon factory]

An epidemiological cross-sectional study was conducted on 99 workers exposed to lower concentration of carbon disulfide in a viscose rayon factory for a long time and 28 non-exposed ones in the same factory. Blood pressure, serum lipoproteins and electrocardiograph were detected. The results showed that neither diastolic blood pressure nor systolic one between exposed group and control group was obviously different All indicators of serum lipids and lipoproteins were not significantly different except the lipoprotein(a) of exposed group was significantly higher than that of control group, and the risk of abnormal electrocardiogram in the workers exposed to carbon disulfide was 1.1 times of those non-exposed ones but with no statistical significance. The results suggest that lipoprotein(a) can be used as a sensitive indicator for the cardiotoxic effects of carbon disulfide.

[DNA content and cell cycle phase analysis in uterine sarcomas and its clinical significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship among DNA content, cell cycle phase analysis with the clinical-pathological features and prognosis of uterine sarcomas.

METHODS

DNA content and cell cycle phase analysis were performed on 75 paraffin-embedded specimens of uterine sarcomas using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Both the aneuploidy rate and DNA index (DI) in specimens from advanced stage and poorly-differentiated cases were significantly higher than those in specimens from early stage and well-differentiated cases (P < 0.05). S-phase fraction (SPF) and proliferation index (PI) were significantly higher in advanced stage than those in early stage (P < 0.05). The 5-year suvival rates for DNA aneuploid and diploid patients were 27% and 76%, respectively (P < 0.01). The 5-year suvival rates for patients with a SPF > 20% and those with SPF < or = 20% were 10% and 56% respectively (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

DI, SPF, PI and clinical stage are the most important factors affecting the prognosis.

[Clinical observation of hysteroscopic electric resection: an analysis of 36 patients with abnormal uterine bleeding]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and influences of hysteroscopic electrosurgery in treating abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).

METHODS

36 women with AUB received hysteroscopic transcervical resection of the endometrium or intrauterine lesions with a continuous flow resectoscope.

RESULTS

The complications rate was 8.3%. 32 patients were followed for 4 to 12 months. Menstrual symptoms ameliorated in 82.4% of the patients. 5.9% of the women became amenorrhoeic. 58.8% had only spotting, 17.6% recovered normal period. 6 out of the 8 cases with dysmenorrhea had relieved their pain. Satisfactory rate of the procedure was 76.5%. Two patients received hysterectomy later for recurrent uterine bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Hysteroscopic electrosurgery is an effective procedure in treating abnormal uterine bleeding. But its long-term efficacy is yet to be identified. When improving the technique and basic knowledge, the indications should be given appropriatly.

Efficacy of recombinant methioninase in combination with cisplatin on human colon tumors in nude mice

The present treatment of colon cancer is based on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Despite promising results of combining leucovorin or levamisole with 5-FU, the 5-year survival rate of patients with advanced colon cancer has not increased significantly. Colon tumors in vitro have been shown previously to have an elevated requirement for methionine, suggesting a new therapeutic target. In this study, targeting the methionine dependence of colon tumors is effected by recombinant methioninase (rMETase), alone and in combination with cisplatin (CDDP). In vitro results demonstrated that CDDP and rMETase act synergistically on the human colon cancer cell line SW 620, with a combination index (CI) of 0.45, as well as on the human colon cancer cell line Colo 205 with a CI of 0.7. Human colon cancer lines HCT 15, HT 29, Colo 205, and SW 620 growing in nude mice were treated with rMETase to determine an effective dose for depletion of tumor methionine. rMETase at 15 units/g/day for 5 days depleted tumor methionine in all four tumor types to approximately 30% of untreated control. rMETase alone arrested growth of HCT 15 and HT29 in nude mice for 1 week after treatment termination. Colo 205 and SW 620 were partially arrested by rMETase. However, CDDP in combination with rMETase resulted in tumor regression of Colo 205 and growth arrest of SW 620 in nude mice. The ratio of the treated:control group (T:C) tumor weights for Colo 205 was 8% when CDDP was given on day-5, followed by treatment on days 5-9 with rMETase. This treatment schedule resulted in two of the six animals having no detectable tumor when the experiment was terminated on day 16. SW620 was resistant to CDDP alone and only partially sensitive to rMETase alone. However, when SW 620 was treated with rMETase from days-5 to -9 and CDDP on day-5, tumor growth was arrested. The results demonstrate that rMETase used simultaneously in combination with CDDP had significant antitumor efficacy in colon cancer in vitro and in vivo. The data suggest a novel and promising therapeutic approach by targeting the elevated methionine dependence of colon cancer.

Platelet-activating factor receptor mRNA is localized in eosinophils and epithelial cells in rat small intestine: regulation by dexamethasone and gut flora

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a potent mediator involved in bowel injury. We investigated PAF receptor transcription and its mRNA localization in the small intestine of normal (conventionally fed) and germ-free rats, by competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization. A dose of PAF (1.5 microg/kg, i.v.) insufficient to cause gross bowel injury was injected into rats. Some rats were pretreated with dexamethasone (1 mg/kg). We found: (1) PAF receptor (PAF-R) mRNA localized predominantly in lamina propria eosinophils and in epithelial cells; (2) PAF increased PAF-receptor signals in the epithelial cells; (3) Dexamethasone depleted eosinophils in the intestine and markedly decreased PAF-receptor transcripts; the response to PAF was also weaker than control rats; (4) Germ-free rats had less PAF-R mRNA than normal rats, and showed a weaker response to PAF than conventionally fed rats. Thus, we conclude: (1) PAF receptor mRNA is constitutively expressed in the epithelium and in lamina propria eosinophils in the intestine. (2) PAF-R transcription is up-regulated by PAF and gut flora, mostly in the epithelium. (3) PAF-R transcription is down-regulated by glucocorticoids, mainly as a result of eosinophil depletion. These results suggest a functional role for PAF receptors both in host defence and the inflammatory response in the small intestine.

Mutagenic properties of the 8-amino-2'-deoxyguanosine DNA adduct in mammalian cells

The DNA adduct 8-amino-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-amino-dG) is found in liver DNA of rats treated with the hepatocarcinogen 2-nitropropane. Site-specifically modified oligodeoxynucleotides were used to explore the mutagenic potential of 8-amino-dG in simian kidney (COS-7) cells. Oligodeoxynucleotides (5'-TCCTCCTX1G2CCTCTC and 5'-TCCTCCTG1X2CCTCTC, X = dG or 8-amino-dG) with the lesion positioned at codon 60 or 61 of the non-coding strand of the human c-Ha- ras1 gene were inserted into single-stranded phagemid vectors and transfected into COS-7 cells. The progeny plasmid obtained was used to transform Escherichia coli DH10B. Transformants were analyzed by oligodeoxynucleotide hybridization and DNA sequencing to establish the mutation frequency and spectrum produced by the modified base. The correct base, dCMP, was incorporated preferentially opposite 8-amino-dG at X1and X2. When 8-amino-dG was at X1, targeted GNH2-->T transversions were detected, along with smaller numbers of GNH2-->A transitions and GNH2-->C transversions. When the adduct was at X2, only GNH2-->T transversions were observed. The frequencies of targeted mutation at X1and X2were 2.7 and 1.7%, respectively. Mutation frequency and mutagenic spectrum were sequence context dependent. In addition, non-targeted G-->T transversions, accompanied by some G-->A transitions, were detected 5' to 8-amino-dG when the lesion was at X2. We conclude that 8-amino-dG is a mutagenic lesion, generating G-->T and G-->C transversions and G-->A transitions in mammalian cells.

[Serum sex hormone and urinary metabolites of male workers exposed to carbon disulfide]

Serum luteotropic hormone(LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolectin(PRL) and testosterone (T) were determined by radioimmunoassay methods in 50 workers exposed to carbon disulfide(CS2) in a viscose rayon factory. Urinary excretion of 2-thio-thiazolidine-4-carboxilic acid (TTCA) in workers by the end of work shift was analyzed with modified high-performance liquid chromatography. The working conditions of the factory had not been changed since 1950s. The concentration of CS2, determined by Multigas Monitor (type 1320) in workplace, was (14.4 +/- 4.62) mg/m3. The results showed that: (1) serum FSH of CS2 group (10.04 +/- 7.35)IU/L was significantly higher than that of control group (7.50 +/- 7.07 IU/L), PRL of CS2 group (5.72 +/- 4.18) ng/L was significantly lower than that of control group (6.89 +/- 4.64 ng/L). Serum LH was declined with the increase of time exposed to CS2, (2) urinary TTCA in CS2 group was 1.072 +/- 1.013 mg/g Cr. Serum FSH was declined with the increase of TTCA excretion. The results suggested that the function of endocrine system was disturbed in workers exposed to CS2.

[Retreatment after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of reoperation of residual myopia because of regression, undercorrection with or without coexisting severe corneal haze after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

METHODS

A VISK 20/20 excimer laser was used to treat myopia of -1.00 to -16.50 diopters (spherical equivalent) at corneal plane. 35 patients (51 eyes) who had residual myopia because of regression, undercorrection with or without coexisting severe corneal haze after initial PRK were retreated by using PRK and phototherapeutic keratectomy.

RESULTS

At 12 months after retreatment, the rates of uncorrected visual acuity more than or equal to 10/20 or 20/20 were 82.6% and 39.1% respectively, 100.0% and 50.0% in myopia up to -6.00 D, 73.3% and 33.3% in myopia of -6.25 to -16.50 D respectively. 86.3% of eyes were within +/- 1.00 diopters of desired emmetropia. Corneal haze after retreatment was not greater than that observed after initial procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The residual myopia because of regression, undercorrection with or without severe corneal haze after initial PRK can be successfully retreated. Although the therapeutic result of retreatment of PRK is less successful than that of the initial procedure, retreatment appears to enhance it.

[Study on measuring method of pulse oxygen saturation in clinical monitor]

In this paper, a measuring system of pulse oxygen saturation is presented, which is based on the Lambert-beer Principle, using the relative intensities at two wavelengths in the red and infrared ranges. In order to meet the special demand of continuous clinical physiological monitoring, two circuits and appropriate algorithms are designed, one circuit, a feedback circuit controlled by micro-controller, automatically regulates the base line of signal, another circuit is a controlled integral circuit which automatically regulates the amplitude of waveforms. As the result, the drift of base line in this system, especially the effects caused by the physiological differences of human bodies, which will deteriorate the system, have been reduced. The system is satisfactory to clinical monitoring.

[Detection of Epstein-Barr viral genome in tumor cells of Warthin's tumor of parotid gland]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relations between Warthin's tumors of salivary gland and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

METHODS

75 cases of salivary gland Warthin's tumor and 20 cases of normal salivary gland tissue were examined for to detect EBV genoma by using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of DNA, 62 cases of single Warthin's tumor and 13 cases of multiple/bilateral Warthin's tumor's.

RESULTS

EBV DNA was detected in 13 cases of single Wathin's tumors, 9 cases of multiple/bilateral Warthin's tumor and 3 cases of normal salivary gland.

CONCLUSION

There was a close relationship between EBV and multiple/bilateral Warthin's tumors.

[Significance and changes of plasma endothelin in patients undergone upper abdominal surgery]

We observed the changes of plasma endothelin, hemodynamic and electrocardiogram in twelve patients undergone upper abdominal surgery under epidural anesthesia. The results showed that mean artery pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance, maximum left atrial pressure, maximum ascendant speed of artery systolic pressure and mean ascendant speed of artery systolic pressure were all significantly lower during intraab-dominal exploration than that of preanesthesia (P < 0.01). Mean artery pressure and systemic vascualr resistance kept low levels to the end of operation. Plasma endothelin was significantly higher at 1 hour after skin resection than that of preanesthesia (P < 0.01) and was apparently negative related with cardiac output(CO) and cardiac index(CI) during exploration(CO r = -0.9221; CI r = -0.8768), two patients' with myocardial ischemia were specially higher. We conclude that plasma endothelin is closely related with cardiac function and myocardial ischemia during operation.

[Vitreous surgery for intraocular lens dislocated into vitreous cavity]

OBJECTIVE

To study the way to manage intraocular lenses (IOLs) dislocated into vitreous cavity.

METHODS

Three methods of vitreoretinal surgery were applied for 15 cases with severe dislocation of IOL into vitreous cavity: vitreoretinal surgery combined with simple IOL removal in 7 cases (simple group), vitreoretinal surgery combined with liquid perfluorocarbon (PFCL) applied for IOL removal in 3 cases and vitreoretinal surgery combined with IOL removal and fixation of IOL at ciliary sulcus in 5 cases.

RESULTS

The dislocated IOLs were removed successfully in all cases. The preoperative visual acuities were light perception to hand movement. Postoperatively, the patients were followed for 3 months to 3 years. In the cases with ciliary sulcus fixation of IOL, all their visual acuities were above 20/100 and the best visual acuity was 20/25. In the 10 cases without fixation of IOL, the corrected visual acuities were 20/1000 to 20/50. The complications were retinal detachment in 1 case, slight vitreous hemorrhage in 2 cases and temporary uveitis in 3 cases.

CONCLUSION

Vitreous surgery is the best way for the treatment of a case with IOL severely dislocated into the vitreous cavity, and such an IOL should be removed. Visual acuity can be improved significantly by the fixation of IOL at ciliary sulcus.

[Studies on the supercritical-CO2 fluid extraction and quality evaluation of ginger oils]

Essential oils from the dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinale were extracted by supercritical-CO2 fluid(SFE-CO2) and traditional water still distillation (WSD) methods, and the SFE extraction technology and quality (GC-MS, etc.) of the oils were studied. The results showed that the SFE-CO2 contains 49 constituents, such as 6-paradol, etc, the ginger peppery component of them gets to 22.90%.

[Primary experience in inframammary crease reconstruction]

OBJECTIVE

To improve the result of augmentation mammaplasty.

METHODS

The authors selected 15 patients whose primary breast volume was less than 70 ml. During augmentation mammaplasty on these patients, the inframammary creases were reconstructed by lifting and fixation under the pectorales major. The paper elaborated on the principle, design and method of the operation.

RESULTS

Postoperative follow-up for 6 to 12 months showed good results.

CONCLUSION

This method is simple, of rational design and leaving no scar on the skin.

Study on relationship between carbon disulfide exposure and symptoms and signs of nervous system in workers

The relationship between carbon disulfide (CS2) and the symptoms and signs of nervous system in rayon workers was investigated. In a cross sectional study of CS2-exposed workers from the viscose industry and controls, data on neurological symptoms and clinical neurological examination were evaluated. The exposed subjects includes 326 workers and 105 workers from the same factory, without exposure to CS2 or to any other neurotoxic agents, served as controls. The median exposure to CS2(8 h time weighted) in the low-level exposure group was 4.6 mg/m3, and 18.3 mg/m3 in high-level exposure group. Non-conditional multiple logistic regression analysis was employed for evaluating statistical differences by using SAS software. In the analysis, age, sex, work time, body mass index (BMI), smoking and drinking habits, educational background and marriage status were controlled. The odds ratio (OR) significantly increased of some symptoms in workers exposed to CS2 at levels below 10 mg/m3, as compared to controls. The dose-effect relationship between the exposure to CS2 and the symptoms of nervous system was demonstrated. In terms of neurological parameters, no other abnormal change but that in temperature sensitivity was observed in workers exposed to CS2. In conclusion, the influence of low level CS2 on nervous system of workers should not be ignored.

[Activation of L-Arg: no pathway in canine brain by the damage from complete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion]

To ascertain whether complete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion activate L-Arg: NO pathway in canine brain, we anestherized nine adult dogs with ketamine and fentayle and randomly divided into two groups. Four dogs were nonischemic control group. Five dogs were complete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion group, they underwent a 18-minute cardiac arrest, and were resusciatation by standard CPR, supported by intensive care for 8 hours. At the end of each experiment, the parietal cortex was assayed for content of Nitrite and NADPH-positive neurons. Compared with the control group, the contents of Nitrite and NADPH-positive neurons of coxtex in complete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion group increased significantly (P < 0.01). The results suggest that complete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion activate the L-Arg: NO pathway in canine brain, and NO may play an important role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

CAT-transfected epithelial cells provide evidence for a CD4 independent pathway of HIV infection

Several laboratories have presented evidence that HIV can productively infect CD4- cell lines. However, this data could be challenged on the basis that the target cells may express low levels of the CD4 receptor. In addition, it could be argued that assays might be detecting residual virus. In the case of cell-mediated infection, it is possible that virus detected in assays could be secreted from HIV-infected donor cells rather than the target CD4- cells. In this report we describe a CD4- epithelial cell line which has been transfected with a plasmid containing the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene ligated to the HIV LTR. CAT-ELISA and immunocytochemistry indicate that target cells synthesize CAT after exposure to HIV-infected primary activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Results correlate very well with p24 ELISA assays. Infection of epithelia by primary NSI strains of HIV can be blocked by patient antisera or by certain sulfated polysaccharides. Since the CAT assay is not dependent on virus production, the data reported here confirm that CD4- epithelial cells derived from the human cervix can be productively infected by HIV. The observations also support the theory that sexual transmission of HIV could be initiated by infection of genital tract epithelia. Furthermore, the findings support the suppositions that sexual transmission of HIV could be prevented by antibodies to HIV or alternately by a topical formulation containing certain sulfated polysaccharides.

[A preliminary report of the effect of levodopa and carbidopa for childhood amblyopia]

PURPOSE

To explore the short-term effect of levodopa and carbidopa in 36 children (4.5-14 years) with refractory amblyopia.

METHODS

36 cases of incurable childhood amblyopia treated with occlussion with visual acuity stably for 6 months were retreated by levodopa and carbidopa 1.5 mg/kg, 0.38 mg/kg respectively for 3 months. Visual acuity, fusional and stereoscopic function, retinal light sensitivity and scotomas were observed at 1 and 3 months after tablet taken. Medicine side effects were observed.

RESULTS

At 3 months, the visual acuity of 88.89% eyes were improved(average 2.27 +/- 1.26 line), fusional and stereoscopic function were restored in 10 and 6 cases respectively. Retinal light sensitivity significantly increased, scotomas disappeared in 19 eyes and contracted in 6 eyes. The basic cure rate was 42.86% Less side effect were found.

CONCLUSION

Average dose levels(1.5/0.38 mg/kg) of levodopa and carbidopa were an effective and secuity method to improve visual function of refractory childhood amblyopia.

[The study of architecture of portable multiparameter physiological monitor]

The portable multiparameter physiological monitor now becomes a hot point of competition of international manufactures. The paper uses the UPM-2001 patient monitor as an example, studies the key points of design of portable-type monitor which breaks through the traditional architecture of desk-type monitor.

High expression, purification, and properties of recombinant homocysteine alpha, gamma-lyase

Homocysteine alpha,gamma-lyase from the anaerobic protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis has been cloned from genomic DNA using PCR methods and expressed in Escherichia coli with a vector containing the T7 promoter. The recombinant homocysteine alpha,gamma-lyase (rHCYase) is expressed as the major protein in the host E. coli cells. The enzyme was purified to approximately 90% purity using heat treatment at 50 degreesC, precipitation steps with polyethyleneimine, polyethylene glycol 8000, and high sodium chloride, DEAE-Sepharose FF chromatography, and phenyl-Sepharose 6 FF chromatography. The final yield was greater than 50%, which encompassed an approximate 18-fold purification. The enzyme is a homotetramer with a monomer molecular weight of 43K and contains pyridoxal phosphate. The Trichomonas rHCYase is selective for homocysteine with respect to very low cysteinase activity in contrast to the alpha,gamma-lyase from Pseudomonas putida, which has very high cysteinase activity with respect to homocysteine. The T. vaginalis and P. putida alpha,gamma-lyases readily separate on a phenyl-Sepharose 6 FF column with the T. vaginalis enzyme eluting first. rHCYase is stable up to 50 degreesC and active over a pH range of 6-8. These properties of high recombinant expression in E. coli, a simple and effective high-yield purification procedure and high relative specificity for homocysteine with respect to cysteine, make rHCYase a promising candidate to use for the diagnosis of hyperhomocystenemia, which has been demonstrated to be a major risk factor for the onset and mortality of cardiovascular disease of all types.

[Studies on the biological and clinical characteristics of acquired pneumonia caused by K. planticola]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the characteristics of biological, and clinical epidemiology of acquired pneumonia caused by a new type of Klebsiella, K. planticola.

METHOD

9 strains of K. planticola were isolated from respiratory samples of patients, in vitro, biological and serologic identification were done, in vivo, infected animal models were also evaluated. Clinical epidemiological inquiries were also performed.

RESULT

9 strains' biological features were different from those of the other Klebsiella. The 9 patients' ages were over forty and the primary disease was the third type tuberculosis of lungs. Using of antituberculosis drugs for long term as well as penicillins might be the predisposing factors, corticosteroids were used in 3 of the 9 patients, Combined infection with other pathogens in addition to K. planticola occurred in 8 patients, in 7/8, Candida albicans was identified. Drug sensitive tests show that all of them were resistant to penicillins and sensitive to the second and third generation cephalosporins.

CONCLUSION

The new strain of Klebsiella was studied and this information will be useful for diagnosing and treating K. platicola.

[An in-vitro evaluation of the Sichuan Union Univ-I membrane lung and mathematical modeling calculation]

A new ELF hollow fibre lung, Sichuan Union Univ-I(SUU-I), constructed in our laboratory was tested in vitro to evaluate its oxygen transfer performance before it undergoes expensive animal trial. The test rig, conditions, procedure and the modelling method are introduced in the present paper. The results demonstrate that the Sichuan Union Univ-I membrane lung possesses the gas exchange ability claimed in the AAMI standards, and approaches the levels of the widely accepted membrane lungs, MAXIMA (Medtronic, US), SARNS(3M, US) and SAFE-II (Polystan, Denmark). The in vitro technique described in this paper proved practical, economical, and simple in the design and manufacturing of a new type membrane lung, as well as in research and development of membrane lungs.

[In vitro testing of the intravenacaval respiratory assist device (I)--Pressure drop characteristics and oxygen transfer performance]

The intravenacaval respiratory assist device(IVOX) of three different sizes developed by the present authors were evaluated experimentally in vitro. The tests using in turn two different test chamber materials(rigid and elastic) showed that a pressure drop occured. The pressure drop was higher in rigid test chamber than that in the elastic one, and the pressure drop difference between these two kinds of chamber increased with the diameter of the bundle of IVOX. Oxygen transfer rate, with water as the medium in the tests, was augmented with increasing water flow rate and gas flow rate, and with decreasing inlet oxygen concentration in water. It was concluded that, to avoid bubbles produced by IVOX, the gas flow rate should be controlled with fixed outlet water pressure, and vacancy be used in the effluent gas system.

An association study of a functional polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene with personality and psychiatric symptoms

A functional polymorphism in the regulatory region of the serotonin transporter gene has been reported to be associated with anxiety-related personality traits. We attempted to replicate this finding in an association study involving 759 Caucasians selected from the general Australian population. We found no associations with personality traits (including neuroticism, negative affect and behavioral inhibition), anxiety and depressive symptoms, or alcohol misuse.

Benzodiazepine effects on human sleep EEG spectra: a comparison of triazolam and flunitrazepam

The effects of 0.5 mg triazolam (TRI) and 4 mg flunitrazepam (FNZ) on the sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) were studied in eleven (six for TRI, and five for FNZ) healthy young male subjects. C3 EEG channel data of one baseline night, three drug nights and two withdrawal nights were recorded and their analyzed using a fast Fourier transformation (FFT) method. Changes in the 0.5 Hz to 40 Hz power spectrum showed that: 1) both TRI and FNZ increased higher frequency activity and reduced lower frequency activity on the drug nights; 2) on drug nights, NREM sigma frequency power was more strongly enhanced by TRI than FNZ, while the beta power of both NREM and REM was more strongly enhanced by FNZ than TRI; 3) NREM alpha power increased on the second night of withdrawal from both TRI and FNZ; 4) the power spectra for both NREM and REM sleep returned to baseline levels by the fourth night of withdrawal from either TRI or FNZ. These findings suggest that 0.5 mg TRI and 4 mg FNZ have both common and differing pharmacological effects on the central nervous system. Such differences could be caused by differences in the dose, half-life or systemic distribution of these two drugs.

Structure-based design of peptides that recognize the CD4 binding domain of HIV-1 gp120

DESIGN

Envelope protein-specific antiviral peptides, called mucibodies, that can specifically recognize and bind to the surface unit protein gp120 of HIV-1 were designed. The initial mucibody binding target was the V3 loop of HIV-1 gp120. Here, the gp120-CD4 binding domain was chosen as the site of mucibody binding. The CD4 binding domain of gp120 is known to be a conformational epitope and is involved in the earliest events of viral entry into many cells.

METHODS

The design of the mucibody antivirals was based on previous observations that antibody complementarity determining regions (CDR) are generally similar to the repeating loops or knob structures found in the 20-residue tandem repeat domain of human mucin MUC1. The heavy chain CDR3 from the bacteriophage display antibody b12 was used to construct two mucibodies, b12-CDR1 and b12-26.

RESULTS

Peptides corresponding to three tandem repeats were shown to bind directly to the CD4 binding domain of HIV-1 gp120 in a solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These mucibody peptides also disrupted the gp120-CD4 interaction in a solution-phase inhibition assay. Finally, mucibodies neutralized primary and laboratory macrophage-tropic isolates of HIV-1.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a potential for medical use of these peptides as topical vaginal microbicides in preventing HIV-1 transmission during sexual contact. These results also suggest that multivalent, non-immunogenic binding proteins of virtually any specificity could be constructed for use in therapeutic applications involving infectious diseases and immune system dysfunction.

[Study on the supercritical-CO2 fluid extraction of Prunus mandshurica oils]

The paper reported technological study on extracting Prunus mandshurica oils by supercritical-CO2 fluid, mainly researched the influence of pressure, temperature, time and flow rate of CO2 on the oil yield, determined optimum technology of extracting the oils, compared the oils from SFE-CO2 and traditional technology.

[Pharmacognostical identification of Chinese drug wuxiangcao (Mosla soochowensis)]

In this paper, Chinese drug Wuxiangcao (Mosla soochowensis Matsuda) is made an initial study on character, microscopical and physicochemical sides. It provide a scientific basis for its comprehensive devlopment and ultilization, and to use in clinical.

[Design and laboratory manufacture of "SUU-Type I" extra-luminal flow hollow fibre membrane oxygenator with microporous polypropylene]

The design and laboratory manufacture of "SUU-TYPE I" extra-luminal flow(ELF) hollow fibre membrane oxygenator are presented. The design is based on the O2 and CO2 transfer models in the cross-flow membrane oxygenator of Mockros and Pei. This paper also introduces the sketch of the membrane oxygenator, the structure of housing, the bundle of hollow fibres and the procedure of centrifugal potting. The self-made potting equipment and process of centrifugal potting are emphasized. The key know-how of centrifugal potting includes: (1) assuring the quality of the hollow fibre membrane material and the bundle; (2) calculating the quantity of potting material, polyurethane; (3) controlling reaction temperature; (4) removing gas from potting ends; (5) controlling rotation speed; (6) inserting the bundle in the house; (7) mastering the time of demoudling and cutting.

Fibroblast heterogeneity of signal transduction mechanisms to complement-C1q. Analyses of calcium mobilization, inositol phosphate accumulation, and protein kinases-C redistribution

Fibroblasts of healthy and granulation gingiva are phenotypically heterogeneous with regard to binding C1q collagen-like (cC1qR) or C1q globular-heads (gC1qR) regions, respectively. Here, isolated fibroblast subsets, expressing either the cC1qR or the gC1qR phenotype, were stimulated with C1q, and assessed for changes in cytosolic free calcium [Ca2+]i, accumulation of inositol trisphosphate (IP3), and redistribution of Ca2+-dependent protein kinases-C (cPKCs) from cytosol to membranes. Changes in [Ca2+]i were determined using Indo-1 fluorescence in combination with adhering cell analysis and sorting (ACAS) cytometry. Accumulation of IP3 was quantified using a competitive radioreceptor binding assay. Redistribution of cPKCs was evaluated by immunoblotting with antibodies to PKCalpha/betaI-betaII/gamma. Subsets manifested different fluctuations in [Ca2+]i levels 20 seconds after C1q-stimulation in the presence of millimolar concentrations of external calcium. Whereas cC1qR fibroblasts responded with a 38% over baseline [Ca2+]i increase which was sustained for 20 to 30 minutes, gC1qR fibroblasts responded with a higher (264% over baseline) and more rapid (2 to 3 minutes) transient. Likewise, subsets exhibited different kinetics of IP3 accumulation. Whereas cC1qR fibroblasts responded with an IP3 increase of 32 +/- 3 pmol/10(4) cells over baseline after 5 seconds stimulation, gC1qR fibroblasts responded after 15 to 20 seconds with a lower increase (13 +/- 0.8 IP3 pmol/10(4) cells over baseline). Subsets differed in cPKCs redistribution which peaked in gC1qR-membranes 30 seconds after stimulation and remained sustained between 10 and 30 minutes. No cPKC redistribution was detectable in stimulated cC1qR-cells. We conclude that fibroblasts are heterogeneous in phosphoinositide-Ca2+ signaling and cPKC redistribution to C1q, and suggest that these differences may affect activities of normal and granulation gingiva.

Complement C1q inhibits cellular spreading and stimulates adenylyl cyclase activity of fibroblasts

C1q selectively localizes at injured tissues, where it may function as a regulator of cell-matrix interactions. We show here that purified C1q, added to the culture medium of human gingival fibroblasts (HF) spread onto fibronectin substrates, elicited a round morphology that was accompanied by altered F-actin and correlated with inhibition of cellular spreading. Shape modification required integrity of the molecule and was specific, dose dependent, nontoxic, and reversible. Antispreading activity was mediated, at least in part, by specific cell-surface C1q receptors. We hypothesized that ligand occupancy of C1q receptors could influence shape by affecting intracellular levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP). Within 20 min of exposure of adhering HF to C1q, we detected an increase in adenylyl cyclase activity (six- to ninefold) in cAMP accumulation (by 20%) and in cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity (by 20%). These changes suggested that the rounding effect of C1q may be associated with activation of the adenylyl cyclase pathway.

[Correction of square face]

OBJECTIVE

This work was to provide an advanced operation method for square face correction.

METHODS

The method is characterized by resecting hyperostosis of the mandibular angle, the bulky masseter and the buccal fat pad through intraoral or combined extra-intraoral approach.

RESULTS

Good results were obtained in 10 cases after follow-up of 4 to 28 months.

CONCLUSION

This operative method proved to be quite ideal and applicable to treat square face.

Mechanism of monocyte-macrophage-mediated transmission of HIV

Observations from our laboratory support the theory that HIV-infected monocyte-macrophages present in genital tract secretions have an important role in sexual transmission of HIV. Light and electron microscopy were used to study the behavior of HIV-infected, primary human monocytes. These cells progress on surfaces, putting forward a leading pseudopod from which they secrete HIV. When added to cultures of CD4-, cervix-derived epithelial cells, monocytes advanced between epithelial cells while secreting virus anteriorly. Epithelial cells subsequently become productively infected. Infection of epithelia could be blocked by sera from HIV-seropositive individuals. These findings support the supposition that transmission of HIV may occur via cell-mediated infection of intact epithelia. The observations also hint at the possibility that HIV-infected monocyte-macrophages in semen or cervical-vaginal secretions could cross intact epithelia by passing between epithelial cells. To test this hypothesis supravital-stained mouse macrophages were inoculated into the vaginas of mice. Four hours later numerous stained cells were observed in the connective tissue beneath the vaginal epithelium and in the iliac lymph nodes. We speculate that direct infection of epithelial cells and/or cell trafficking across epithelia may be involved in sexual transmission of HIV.

[Research and application of cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation]

A novel concept of cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation (CPCR) has been proposed, in which a combination of technologies of the membrane artificial lung, mild hypothermia, centrifugal blood pump, heparin coated surfaces and blood shunting have been used. The present paper introduces the modern conception, history of CPCR, with emphasis on the brain(cerebral) resuscitation. Importance of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mild hypothermia and centrifugal blood pump in cerebral resuscitation has been emphasized. Thereupon the new idea of the novel CPCR has been proposed and the design and laboratory manufacture of the equipment of CPCR will be carried out.

The caspase-RB connection in cell death

Execution of the cell-death programme requires the activation of a family of cysteine proteases known as caspases. Specific cellular proteins are cleaved by caspases during apoptosis, including the retinoblastoma tumour-suppressor protein (RB1). A caspase-resistant RB1 can attenuate the death response to tumour necrosis factor alpha. The cleavage of RB1 during cell death, together with the increased cell death during embryonic development of Rb-knockout mice, suggests that RB1 degradation contributes to the activation of the cell-death pathway.

[A rapid simple and reliable method for sequencing the targeted gene of shuttle vector pSP189]

The authors established a simple, rapid and effective procedures for sequencing the targeted a-gene SupF TRNA of shuttle vector pSP189, which is very important and useful in molecular mechanism research of mutagens. In this method, double-stranded plasmid DNA as template, prepared single-stranded DNA with alkali denaturation, applied r-32P-ATP for labelling 5'-end of primer, were used. A satisfactory result was achieved.

Genistein inhibits the growth of human-patient BPH and prostate cancer in histoculture

BACKGROUND

There is strong epidemiological evidence that prostate disease is significantly less prevalent in the Orient, where the intake of soy products is very high, than in the United States. We therefore undertook a study of the effects of genistein, a major component of soy, on growth of human-patient benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) and prostate cancer tissue in three-dimensional collagen gel-supported histoculture.

METHODS

Surgical specimens of human BPH and cancer were histocultured for 5 days to study the effects of genistein on growth, as measured by inhibition of 3H-thymidine incorporation per microgram protein on day 5.

RESULTS

Genistein in doses of 1.25-10 micrograms/ml decreased the growth of BPH tissue in histoculture in a dose-dependent manner, with little additional effect at higher doses. Prostate cancer tissue in histoculture was similarly inhibited by these doses of genistein.

CONCLUSIONS

Genistein decreases the growth of both BPH and prostate cancer tissue in histoculture. The data suggest that genistein has potential as a therapeutic agent for BPH and prostate cancer.

Polyethylene glycol conjugation of recombinant methioninase for cancer therapy

Recombinant methioninase (rMETase) is a homotetrameric pyridoxal 5'-phosphate enzyme of 172-kda molecular mass derived from Pseudomonas putida and cloned in Escherichia coli. rMETase has been found previously to be an effective, anti-tumor agent in vitro and in vivo. The enzyme targets the elevated minimal methionine requirement seen in all tumor types. In order to prevent immunological reactions which might be produced by multiple dosing of rMETase and to prolong the serum half-life of rMETase, the N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester of methoxypolyethylene glycol propionic acid (M-SPA-PEG 5000) has been coupled to rMETase. Molar ratios of M-SPA-PEG-5000 (PEG) to rMETase from 10 to 40 were used for PEGylation of rMETase. PEGylation reactions were run at 20 degrees C for 30 to 60 min in reaction buffer (20 mM sodium phosphate buffer, pH 8.3). The PEGylated molecules (PEG-rMETase) were purified from unreacted PEG with Amicon 30 K centriprep concentrators or by Sephacryl S-300 HR gel-filtration chromatography. Unreacted rMETase was removed by DEAE Sepharose FF anion-exchange chromatography. The resulting PEG-rMETase subunit, from a PEG/rMETase ratio of 30/1 in the synthetic reaction, had a molecular mass of approximately 53 kda determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, indicating the conjugation of two PEG molecules per subunit of rMETase and eight per tetramer. PEG-rMETase molecules obtained from reacting ratios of PEG /rMETase of 30/1 had enzyme activities of 70% of unmodified rMETase. PEGylation of rMETase increased the serum half-life of the enzyme in rats to approximately 160 min compared to 80 min for unmodified rMETase. PEG-rMETase could deplete serum methionine levels to less than 0.1 microM for approximately 8 h compared to 2 h for rMETase in rats. Efficacy studies of PEG-rMETase on human lung cancer and kidney cancer cells in vitro demonstrated a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.04 and 0.06 units/ml, respectively. These IC50 values were almost identical to unmodified rMETase, thus indicating maintenance of antitumor efficacy in the PEGylated enzyme. PEG-rMETase had an IC50 for normal lung and kidney cells of 0.8 and 1.5 units/ml, respectively, similar to rMETase. The efficacy data indicated that PEG-rMETase maintained the high level tumor selectivity of rMETase. PEG-rMETase injected intravenously in mice demonstrated a tumor/blood retention ratio of approximately 1/6 compared to 1/10 of unmodified enzyme, indicating that PEG-rMETase distributes to the tumor at least as effectively as rMETase.

Mucosal IL-12 gene delivery inhibits allergic airways disease and restores local antiviral immunity

Allergic asthma strongly correlates with airways inflammation driven by interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 secreted by allergen-specific CD4+ T cells. It is possible that over-production of these factors in the lungs may render asthmatic individuals less able to resolve virus infection of the respiratory tract by down-regulating type 1 cytokine-driven immune responses. IL-12 is important for the establishment of cell-mediated immunity (CMI) and may also inhibit responses driven by type 2 cytokine production. Sustained expression of IL-12 in the airways may, therefore, represent an effective preventive treatment or therapy for allergic asthma and any adverse consequences of excessive production of type 2 cytokines for the development of local CMI. Here, we show that allergic responses in airways profoundly inhibit the development of antiviral CMI in mice following local immunization with vaccinia virus (VV) leading to persistent lung infection. However, mucosal gene transfer of IL-12 in the lung, via a VV vector, inhibited local type 2 cytokine production, both prevented the development of allergic disease and airways hyperreactivity in a manner largely dependent on endogenous interferon-gamma expression and suppressed established allergic disease, and reversed the suppression of local antiviral CMI responses resulting in rapid resolution of virus infection. Our study provides the first direct demonstration that allergic conditions, particularly in airways, may inhibit immune responses to concomitant virus infection and suggests that transient mucosal IL-12 gene therapy represents an effective approach to both the prevention and treatment of allergic airways disease and associated immunosuppression of CMI.

[Exploration for an early discriminant model of non-skeletal phase in endemic fluorosis exposed to coal-burning]

OBJECTIVE

To detect, diagnose and treat for endemic fluorosis earlier.

METHODS

Six kinds of indices, such as environmental fluoride level, were collected from the population in epidemic and non-epidemic areas of endemic fluorosis with a 1:1 paired-match design. A discriminant analysis model was established by multivariate analysis. Levels of fluoride in environment and biological materials were determined by fluoride electrode method. Living condition of the subjects were measured and interviewed. Function of skeletons and joints was measured. Biochemical and enzyme indices were measured with reagent kits and gel electrophoresis. Other indices were measured by interview. All data collected were analyzed by SAS and MDAS computer software.

RESULTS

There was significant overall difference between four kinds of discriminant functions, with an overall agreement of 85.78% (83.33% to 98.86%), based on resubstitution with sampled data. Posterior probabilities for new classification of sampled data automatically and randomly produced from a computer were 86.39% to 99.99%.

CONCLUSION

The discriminant functions mentioned above, except for the third one with a too small sample size, can be used in early discrimination of endemic fluorosis caused by exposure to coal burning, or in evaluation for the effectiveness of pharmaceutical therapy, with a power of 95%.

CBFA2, frequently rearranged in leukemia, is not responsible for a familial leukemia syndrome

We have identified a family with an autosomal dominant platelet disorder with a predisposition for developing myeloid malignancies and have previously demonstrated linkage of this trait to chromosome 21q22.1-22.2. The nearest flanking markers, D21S1265 and D21S167, define the familial platelet disorder (FPD) critical region at a genetic distance of approximately 15.2 centimorgans and physical distance of approximately 6 megabases. This locus is of particular interest as it has previously been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) through the (8;21), (3;21) and (12;21) chromosomal translocations. In each of these cases, the CBFA2 gene is rearranged. As well, there is a potential association of this locus with the hematologic abnormalities seen in Down syndrome (trisomy 21). To identify the mutant gene in this pedigree, a positional cloning strategy has been undertaken. Several candidate genes map to this locus including: CBFA2, IFNAR1, IFNAR2, CRFB4, GART, SON, KCNE1, SCL5A3 and ATP50. CBFA2, as well as IFNAR1 and CRFB4, were the focus of initial mutational analysis efforts. In this report, we exclude CBFA2 as a candidate by Northern and Southern blotting, RNase protection, single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP), direct sequencing and gel-shift analysis. Exons of the IFNAR1 and CRFB4 genes were also analyzed by SSCP and demonstrated no evidence of mutation. SSCP analysis identified a new polymorphism in the second exon of the CRFB4 gene and confirmed a previously described polymorphism in the fourth exon of IFNAR1. Efforts are currently underway to delimit further the FPD critical region and to analyze the other known candidate genes, as well as novel candidate genes, which map to this locus.

Adsorptive stripping voltammetry of bleomycin

In 0.05 M H2SO4 solution, two reductive peaks, P1 and P2, of bleomycin were obtained. The peak potentials E(P1) and E(P2) were -0.83 and -1.09 V (versus Ag/AgCl), respectively. The sensitivity of P2 was much higher than that of P1. The peak current of P2 was proportional to the concentration of bleomycin over the range 1.0 x 10(-9)-1.0 x 10(-7) M with a detection limit of 5.0 x 10(-10) M using adsorptive voltammetry at an accumulation time of 120 s (Ei = -0.80 V). The behaviour of the reduction wave was studied and applied to the determination of bleomycin in mouse serum. The reduction process of P1 was irreversible with adsorptive characteristics and the adsorption behavior obeyed the Frumkin adsorptive isotherm. The adsorptive coefficient beta was 8.9 x 10(5), the interaction factor alpha was 0.94 and the Gibbs energy of adsorption delta G degree was -33.93 kJ mol-1. P2 was an irreversible adsorption peak with catalytic hydrogen properties.

Recombinant methioninase infusion reduces the biochemical endpoint of serum methionine with minimal toxicity in high-stage cancer patients

The tumor-specific increased minimal requirement for methionine has been shown to be a highly promising therapeutic target. To attack this target we have previously cloned the methioninase gene from Pseudomonas putida and produced recombinant methioninase (rMETase). A pilot Phase I clinical trial has been carried out to determine rMETase toxicity, rMETase pharmacokinetics, and serum MET-depletion in cancer patients. Patients with advanced breast cancer, lung cancer, renal cancer and lymphoma were given a single rMETase treatment at doses ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 units by i.v. infusion over 6-24 hours. No clinical toxicity was observed in any patient after rMETase treatment. rMETase levels reached 0.1 to 0.4 units per ml of serum in the patients which correspond to therapeutic levels in vitro. The lowest serum methionine levels in rMETase-treated patients were 0.1% of the pre-treatment levels corresponding to approximately 0.1 microM, which also correlates to therapeutic levels in vitro. The results of the rMETase pilot Phase I clinical trial therefore indicate that i.v. infusion of rMETase is safe and effectively depletes its biochemical target of serum methionine suggesting potential efficacy in future clinical trials.

[Molecular mechanism of mutagenesis induced by aflatoxin B1 using a shuttle vector pSP189/mammalian cell system]

AFB1 is one of the most potent carcinogenic mycotoxins, naturally occurred in foods. We applied a new SV40-based shuttle vector pSP189 and African Green kidney cells (VeroE6 cell line), which constitute shuttle vector/mammalian cell system to detect mutagenesis induced by AFB1 and to study the effects of AFB1 on the mutation site, type and sequence specificity of DNA molecular level through sequence analysis of pSP189 target gene SupF TRNA. The results indicated that through various time treatment of AFB1 and rat liver microsome, the mutants were obtained by transformation of E. Coli MBM 7070 with progeny of pSP189 generated during replication in veroE6 cells, which increased gradually with the lapse of time, and this experiment showed a significant dose-response relationship. Most detected mutants were point mutations evidenced by agarose gel electrophoresis analysis. The results of direct sequencing SupF TRNA of 53 independent mutants showed that most mutations (about 84.9%) were single base substitutions, among which 95.2% of base substitutions happened on the site of G:C base pair, the predominant mutation was G:C-->T:A transversion, accounting for 53.3%, followed by G:C-->A:T transition, accounting for 35.6%. AFB1-induced mutations did not distributed randomly, and had mutation hot spots and sequence specificity, which contained 5 base pair sequence 5'-NNTTC-3'. The mutations on the SupF shuttle vector were consistent with the results from studies of oncogene tumor suppressor genes and DNA adduct.