[Ultrastructure study of endocrine factors affected intrabony pocket repair in dogs]

OBJECTIVE:Endocrine factors affected on alveolar bone repair in ultrastructure level were observed. METHODS: The two osseous wall infrabony pockets in 24 dog models were divided into 4 groups randomly. The dogs were sacrificed in groups of 2 successively at 1 month,2 months and 6 months after operation.The alveolar bone was prepared for light microscopic and transmission electron microscopic observation. RESULTS: The bone formation was slower in ovariectomy group than in normal control group.The bone osteoporos was occurred in diabetes group and the bone formation decreased in thyroidism group. CONCLUSION: This study suggested that endocrine factors may influence and regulate the repair and resorption of alveolar bone.

[The microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity in chromosome translocation breakpoint in leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the microsatellite instability (MSI) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) near the chromosome translocation breakpoints of various types of leukemia.

METHODS

PCR amplification of 11 microsatellite loci closely linked to chromosome translocation breakpoints in 30 leukemia patients.

RESULTS

Twenty one in 30 cases of leukemia had MSI in from 1 to 14 microsatellite loci. Eleven in 15 cases of acute leukemia had microsatellite instability (MSI) in more than 1 locus; among them 4 cases had MSI in from 7 to 11 loci. In order of MSI presence rate were D22S315>D9S179>D16S515>D8S559>D12S89. In six cases of chronic myeloid leukemia, 4 cases had MSI in more than 3 loci. Thirteen (2/15) percent of acute leukemia patients had loss of heterozygosity (LOH); the rate was higher than that in other leukemia types.

CONCLUSION

The results of MSI and LOH in many cases indicate that there are a lot of allelic alterations in leukemia patients, but those changes have no special relationship with chromosome translocation breakpoints in various leukemia types.

[Clinical effects of chemotherapy in combination with radiotherapy for advanced lung cancer.]

BACKGROUND

To study the curative effects by concomitant chemotherapy plus radiotherapy for advanced lung cancer.

METHODS

FromJanuary 1992 to December 1994 , radiotherapy was given in 52 patients with advanced lung cancer after 2-4 cycles of chemotherapy. The radiation does ranged from 55-70 Gy/ 5. 5-7 weeks.

RESULTS

The complete response (CR) rate was 13. 5 % , and partial response (PR) rate was 51. 9 %. The overall effective (CR + PR) rate was 65. 4 %. The median survival period was 15. 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Combination of chemotherapy plus radiotherapy is preferable in treating advanced lung cancer.

Pathologic changes, mechanisms and diagnosis in renal bone disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence rate, pathologic changes, mechanisms and diagnostic methods in renal bone disease.

METHODS

The blood levels of carboxyterminal parpthyriod hormone (C-PTH), 1,25(OH)2D3, calcium and phosphate, aluminum in serum and bone tissue were measured. The bone biopsy and bone scan with 99m technetium methylene diphosphonate (99mTC-MDP) were performed in 51 uremic patients.

RESULTS

One hundred per cent of the patients had varying degree of pathologic changes in bone, in which 50.9% of the patients presented high-turnover bone disease, 7.8% of the patients presented low-turnover bone disease and 41.8% of the patients had mixed-type bone disease. The levels of serum C-PTH were predominently high in high-turnover bone disease while the levels of serum 1,25(OH)2D3 were significantly decreased in low-turnover bone disease. There was a high positive rate for the diagnosis of renal bone disease by bone scan with 99mTC-MDP.

CONCLUSIONS

The examination of bone pathology is the most valuable method for the diagnosis of renal bone disease. Bone scan with 99mTC-MDP has reference value when clinical conditions do not allow to make bone biopsy.

Semi-quantitative study of calcitonin gene methylation in myelodysplastic syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether hypermethylation of calcitonin (CT) gene could serve as a transforming signal of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) to leukemia.

METHODS

Bone marrow aspirates from 35 MDS patients, including 25 refractory anemia (RA), 10 refractory anemia with excess of blasts (RAEB) or refractory anemia with excess of blasts in transformation (RAEBt) and 7 cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) transformed from MDS, were studied on methylation rate in 5' end of CT gene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique using methylation-sensitive endonuclease Hpa II with external references of undigested DNA and Msp I digested DNA and internal reference of 112 bp fragment containing codon 61 of N-ras oncogene. The results were expressed as calcitonin gene methylation rate (CTMR) calculated from the densitometer-analyzed integral calculus of PCR products of 566 bp CT(a1), 112 bp N-ras(b1) by using Hpa II-digested DNA and PCR products of 566 bp CT (a0), 112 bp N-ras(b0) by using undigested DNA according to the formula, CTMR = (a1/b1)/(a0/b0) x 100%.

RESULTS

The CTMRs in total 35 MDS, 25 RA, 10 RAEBt and 7 cases of AML transformed from MDS were 36.87% +/- 25.10%, 28.12% +/- 24.01%, 58.74% +/- 16.49%, and 54.03% +/- 7.06% respectively, significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that hypermethylation of CT gene occurs in early stage of leukemic transformation and CTMR might be a useful marker in predicting the transformation of MDS to AML.

[An in vitro of acrylonitrile inducing early damage on buccal mucosa of murine]

ObJECTIVE:Understand the change and damage of rats and mice buccal mucosa tissue structure posioned by acrylonitrile and alcohol. METHODS: Using optical microscope and transmitted electron microscope (TEM) techniques, observed the structure of rats and mice buccal mucosa which posioned by acrylonitrile and alcohol for 13 weeks in different dosages. RESULTS: Acrylonitrile can damage the ultrastructure of the cells and lead to precancerous dysplasia,such as enlargement and deformation of nuclei, reducing of desmosomes and hemidesmosomes,break of basement membrane,swelling and denaturalization of mitochondrion. The degree of damage was correlated with its dosage. Alcohol can increase the damage caused by acrylonitrile. CONCLUSION: Both acrylonitrile and alcohol can destroy the ultrastructure of cells,TEM is helpful for diagnosing disease in their early stage,and buccal mucosa can be used as a window for observing the disease caused by many toxic factors.

Regulation of interleukin 1 signalling through integrin binding and actin reorganization: disparate effects on NF-kappaB and stress kinase pathways

Interleukin 1 (IL-1)-mediated gene regulation is dependent on cell-matrix interactions. Both IL-1-activated pathways, nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) and the stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK), can be regulated by cell adhesion and changes in the cytoskeleton, suggesting that cell-matrix effects on IL-1 responses are initiated in part though effects on signal transduction. Here we show that IL-1-induced transient alterations in cell shape and in the cytoskeleton in fibronectin attached cells are correlated with effects on peak activity of NF-kappaB and SAPK. Cells on fibronectin showed a 1.5-2-fold enhancement in IL-1-induced NF-kappaB activity compared with levels in cells on poly(l-lysine) or bare tissue culture plates. The effect was increased with increasing concentrations of fibronectin and was most prominent at lower concentrations of IL-1. In contrast, fibronectin attachment caused an approx. 50% decrease in the IL-1 activation of SAPK, eliminating the peak activity after 15 min of stimulation with IL-1. IL-1-induced NF-kappaB activity showed a successive, substratum-independent increase during 4 h of attachment and spreading, whereas the inhibitory effect of fibronectin on the SAPK pathway was induced at the initial stages of attachment. Further, the addition of a peptide containing the motif RGD resulted in a 40% decrease in NF-kappaB activity in cells on fibronectin, largely accounted for by an effect on the p50/p65 heterodimer. Similarly, blocking of integrin aggregation by RGD-containing peptide resulted in a total abrogation of the fibronectin effect on IL-1-induced SAPK activity. The results demonstrate disparate effects of cell adhesion on the activation by IL-1 of the NF-kappaB and SAPK pathways. Thus fibronectin attachment causes an up-regulation of NF-kappaB activity in the presence of IL-1, whereas in contrast it results in a pronounced decrease in IL-1-induced SAPK activity.

A simplified routine assay for urinary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol

Urinary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) level may provide us with a biochemical index for central noradrenergic activity. Previous methods for assaying MHPG in urine often lacked specificity, sensitivity, cost-effectiveness or convenience. We now describe a simplified routine assay for urinary MHPG by high-pressure liquid chromatography using electrochemical detection. For convenience and cost-effectiveness within a typical batch assay of total MHPG, 0.5 mL of urine sample, 50 microL of glusulase and 4 micrograms iso-vanillyl alcohol (internal standard) were used to hydrolyze conjugated MHPG at 37 degrees C overnight. Alternatively, for a same-day operation, it is efficient to hydrolyze the sample at 50 degrees C for 3 hours. Each sample was separated isocratically on a reversed-phase column (Ultracarb 5 ODS) at 25 degrees C with the flow rate at 1 mL/min. Intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation were found to be 4.0% (n = 10) and 5.0% (n = 27), respectively, for MHPG at a mean concentration of 1.9 mg/L. Sulfatase or glucuronidase can be substituted for glusulase to obtain either sulfate- or glucuronide-conjugated MHPG. This procedure requires smaller sample amounts and less preparation time without compromising sensitivity and reproducibility.

Distribution of endotoxins in tissues and circulation and its effects following hemorrhagic shock

OBJECTIVE

To systemically investigate 1) distribution of endogenous endotoxin (ET) in tissues and circulation; 2) its relationship with shock duration and organ damage; and 3) its possible mechanism after hemorrhagic shock.

METHODS

To further elucidate the intrinsic relationship between endogenous endotoxin translocation and hemorrhagic shock, the present study systematically investigated the distribution of endogenous ET into the liver, lungs, kidneys and circulation, and the relationship between ET levels and the corresponding organ dysfunction with limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) chromogenic assay following hemorrhagic shock in rats.

RESULTS

It was found that ET levels in hepatic homogenate markedly increased (P = 0.09) 1.5 hours following shock compared with that in the sham group. After resuscitation, ET levels in hepatic, pulmonary and renal tissues were all significantly elevated. The levels kept increasing with the prolonged experimental time, and reached as high as 3.88 +/- 0.95 EU (endotoxin unit)/g in the livers, 2.53 +/- 1.46 EU/g in the lungs and 2.51 +/- 0.89 EU/g in the kidneys 12 hours after shock. ET levels in plasma reached a peak of 1.13 +/- 0.42 EU/ml at 1 hour following resuscitation, then rapidly decreased to the sham levels 3 hours following resuscitation. There was a close relationship between endotoxin translocation and shock duration. Correlation analysis further indicated that the changes in glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in plasma and angiotensin I-converting exzyme (ACE) in pulmonary homogenate were significantly and positively correlated with the ET levels in the liver, kidneys and lungs after hemorrhagic shock.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemorrhagic shock can induce obvious endogenous ET translocation, which is closely related to the shock duration. Although only transient endotoxemia occurs after hemorrhagic shock, ET can massively accumulate in tissues (liver, lungs and kidneys), and may play an important role in the development of shock.

Employment of trauma and injury severity score and a severity characterization of trauma in the outcome evaluation of trauma care and their research advances

OBJECTIVE

To review the application of trauma and injury severity score (TRISS) and a severity characterization of trauma (ASCOT) in the outcome evaluation of trauma care and their research advances.

DATA SOURCES

Both Chinese- and English-language literature searched by using MEDLINE/CD-ROM (1985-1996) and Index of Chinese-Language Literature (1985-1996).

STUDY SELECTION

Over fifty papers and reviews published over the past ten years were selected.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

TRISS can be employed for different purposes, that is, preliminary outcome-based evaluation (PRE) and definitive outcome-based evaluation (DEF). TRISS is a method which is now the most extensively used for the outcome evaluation of trauma. Even so, it still has some shortcomings, e.g., trauma can not be given the weights that should be given, and the section of age is too simple. ASCOT is also a physiologic and anatomic combined method for the evaluation of injury severity and outcome. To some extent, this method obviates the shortcomings of TRISS in the calculation of probability of survival (Ps) with injury severity score (ISS). Therefore, ASCOT is considered to be superior to TRISS in the evaluation of Ps. However, TRISS is still now more extensively used than ASCOT just because ASCOT was recently developed.

Kinetics of plasma cytokines and its clinical significance in patients with severe trauma

OBJECTIVE

To examine the kinetics of plasma tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in patients with severe trauma and to discuss their relationship with organ damage and endotoxemia.

METHODS

Seventeen patients (10 men and 7 women) with severe trauma were selected in this study. Their mean age was 37.9 +/- 11.9 years. All patients were divided into two groups according to injury severity score (ISS): group I with ISS from 16-25 (18.8 +/- 2.9, n = 10) and group II with ISS more than 25 (34.3 +/- 8.3, n = 7). Ten young healthy volunteers (6 men and 4 women) were used as controls. Plasma TNF alpha and IL-8 levels were assayed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. IL-6 activity in the plasma was determined by bioassay with IL-6-dependent cell-line 7TD1. Limulus amebocyte lysate chromogenic test was used for plasma endotoxin assay.

RESULTS

Plasma cytokine levels in patients with trauma had a successively significant increase. Plasma TNF level increased earlier. Increases in plasma IL-6 and IL-8 occurred later. All the increases were significantly correlated with the severity of trauma and organ damage after trauma. In addition, obvious endotoxemia occurred at the early stage of trauma and was significantly correlated with the severity of trauma and the levels of plasma TNF alpha, IL-6 and IL-8.

CONCLUSIONS

Release of TNF alpha, IL-6 and IL-8 can be significantly increased in patients with severe trauma. The increase may be related to massive endotoxin translocation and may play an important role in the development of organ damage after trauma.

[The effect of hypertonic saline solution on the rheology after burn-blast combined injury]

To study the effect of hypertonic saline solution on the rheology and putative mechanism, we investigated the changes of plasma viscosity, blood viscosity and reduced viscosity in dogs treated with hypertonic saline solution after burn-blast combined injury and observed the effect of hypertonic saline solution therapy on the viscoelastic property of erythrocyte membranes measured by micropippette aspiration technique in rats with burn. The results showed that the blood viscosity and reduced viscosity increased significantly in dogs after injury, and plasma viscosity also increased significantly at 24 h after injury. Elastic moduli and viscous coefficients of erythrocyte membranes increased obviously in rats after burn. The hypertonic saline solution therapy could significantly improve blood viscosity and reduced viscosity, but it did not significantly improve elastic moduli and viscous coefficients of erythrocyte membranes. These suggested that the hardness of erythrocyte membranes increased, the deform property of erythrocyte membranes decreased, and the blood rheology became worse after burn blast combined injury. Hypertonic saline solution therapy could significantly improve the blood rheology. The effect did not bear a significant relationship with the change of single biomechanics property of erythrocyte membranes. It might be related with other factors.

Effect of hemorrhagic shock on endotoxin-induced TNF production and its molecular mechanism in rats

The present study was designed to investigate the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) induced by low-dose (1 microgram/kg) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and its cellular source after hemorrhagic shock (HS) in rats, and to further analyze the mechanism for increased sensitivity to LPS through looking at expression of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) mRNA in the liver, lungs and kidneys. It was found in vivo that plasma TNF alpha levels in the HS + LPS group were 20-fold higher than that in the HS group (P < 0.01), and 2.7-fold higher than that in the LPS group (P < 0.05). It was shown in vitro that the capacity of peripheral white blood cells to produce TNF alpha in response to LPS stimulation was significantly decreased by 126% (P < 0.01) and 57% (P < 0.05) compared with pre-shock levels and the sham group respectively at the end of resuscitation following shock, and was still markedly decreased 3 hours after resuscitation, while the capacity of Kupffer cells was significantly increased by 110% compared with the sham group (P < 0.01) after shock and resuscitation. Results from RT-PCR showed that expression of LBP mRNA in the liver, lungs and kidneys was increased after shock and resuscitation. It is suggested that hemorrhagic shock could significantly enhance endotoxin-induced TNF alpha production, which might be due to up-regulation of LBP expression in tissues after shock, and tissue macrophages might be the main source of cytokine production.

Analysis of tumor specific immunoglobulin gene rearrangement in peripheral blood B-cells of multiple myeloma patients by a PCR-SSCP method

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the clonal relationship between lymphocytes in peripheral blood (PB) and myeloma cell in bone marrow (BM) for proving the existence of circulating tumor cells in multiple myeloma (MM) patients.

METHODS

Eighteen patients with MM who have no cytomorphologic plasma cells and CyIg+ cells in PB demonstrated by anti-kappa and anti delta MoAbs using ABC method were involved in the present study, including 3 cases in phases I-II and 15 cases in phase III. The complementary determining region 3 (CDR3) of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We further analysed the single strand conformation of the PCR products by single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis to detect the mononuclear cells in PB and BM of the patients simultaneously.

RESULTS

The same PCR products of IgH-CDR3 gene with BM samples were found in PB of 11 MM patients. The same PCR products and single strand conformation in both PB and BM were found in 9 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has proved the presence of identical clonal malignant cells in PB and BM of MM patients. B cells are involved in the pathogenesis of MM.

Lack of bradykinin-induced smooth muscle cell hyperpolarization despite heterocellular dye coupling and endothelial cell hyperpolarization in porcine ciliary artery

In porcine coronary artery, bradykinin-induced endothelium-dependent vasodilatations are associated with simultaneous endothelium as well as endothelium-dependent smooth muscle cell (SMC) hyperpolarizations. In contrast, in porcine ciliary artery bradykinin evokes endothelium-dependent relaxations, but no change in SMC membrane potential. This study addresses the question of whether the lack of bradykinin-induced SMC hyperpolarization is also associated with an absence of endothelial hyperpolarization in porcine ciliary artery. With a microelectrode to impale cells in arterial strips, a 12-mV transient bradykinin-induced hyperpolarization was measured in endothelial cells. Bradykinin evoked no SMC hyperpolarization deep in the media. Only occasionally, a slight 4-mV hyperpolarization could be recorded in some SMC next to the endothelium. The endothelial intracellular injection (through the recording electrode) of the fluorescent tracers, lucifer yellow or ethidium bromide, showed the existence of a heterocellular dye coupling between endothelial cells and SMC. These observations in porcine ciliary artery demonstrate that the lack of bradykinin-induced endothelium-dependent SMC hyperpolarization is not due to an absence of endothelial cell hyperpolarization, but most likely to an insufficient electrotonic propagation space constant from endothelial cells to SMC, despite the presence of a dye coupling between these cells.

Analysis of clonality of lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma by T-cell receptor gene rearrangement

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the relationship between the number of T-cell receptor (TCR) gamma gene rearrangement and clonality of malignant cells in lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma.

METHODS

The TCR gamma gene characteristics of 73 cases of lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma and other diseases that had presented 1 or 2 prominent bands of amplified TCR gamma VI subgroups-J1/2 gene rearrangement (GR) were detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction enzymes (PCR-RE), heteroduplex formation (HDF), DNA sequencing and single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP).

RESULTS

Thirty-four percent patients had 2 of TCR gamma GR (biallelic rearrangement); twenty-six percent had 1 of TCR gamma GR; fifty-four percent of acute lymphocytic leukemia's and nineteen percent of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) had 2 of TCR gamma GR. HDF could rapidly confirm more than 1 of alleles while more alleles were difficult to be recognized by restriction analysis. Sense and antisense strands of heteroduplex were composed of 2 of TCR gamma GR respectively. By combining HDF method, oligoclonalities in three patients (2 acute lympholytic leukemia and 1 myelodysplastil syndrome and clone evolution in one NHL were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The fact that many patients had 2 of TCR GR means that complications of two neoplastic clones can be affirmed only if more than 2 of TCR GR are found. HDF can be used to detect the clonality, oligoclonality and polyclonality of lymphoid cells in lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma by analysis of the difference of gene segments. HDF is a reliable method for the clone evolution research of lymphoid malignancies in progression.

[Stimulatory effect of sodium deoxycholate on alpha-ergocryptine productivity of Claviceps purpurea 94002 (EKPN94002)]

The stimulation of sodium deoxycholate (SDC) on alpha-ergocryptine production of Claviceps purpurea strain 94002 (EKPN94002) was investigated. Preliminary results indicated that SDC, as a stimulator and at appropriate concentrations, could obviously increase the extracellular and the total production levels of the ergot alkaloid. Satisfied results were obtained when 6.0 mg.L-1 of SDC was present in the seed and fermentation media. The possible mechanism was discussed.

Relaxation by bradykinin in porcine ciliary artery. Role of nitric oxide and K(+)-channels

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of K(+)-channel blockers on bradykinin-induced relaxations in porcine ciliary artery.

METHODS

Vascular isometric forces were measured with a myograph system. Ciliary vascular rings were precontracted with thromboxane A2 analog (U 46619, 10(-7) M) to assess dose-dependent (10(-10)-3 x 10(-6) M) bradykinin-induced relaxation after addition of one of the following: the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor N omega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10(-4) M) or inactive enantiomer (D-NAME, 10(-4) M); the nonspecific K(+)-channel blocker tetra-ethylammonium (TEA, 10(-2) M); or the ATP-sensitive K(+)-channel blocker glibenclamide (10(-5) M). The effect of TEA on relaxations to the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 10(-10)-10(-4) M) was investigated. The membrane potential of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) was recorded after exposure to bradykinin (2.5 x 10(-7) M).

RESULTS

Endothelium-dependent relaxations to bradykinin (maximal [max], 99% +/- 3%) were strongly inhibited by L-NAME (max, 39% +/- 4%, P < 0.01) and partially by TEA (max, 62% +/- 3%, P < 0.01) or glibenclamide (max, 77% +/- 4%, P < 0.01). Administration of glibenclamide plus L-NAME further suppressed bradykinin-induced relaxation (max, 23% +/- 6%; P < 0.01), whereas TEA and L-NAME (max, 6% +/- 2%; P < 0.01) abolished the relaxation. SNP relaxations were unaffected by TEA. Bradykinin had no effect on the membrane potential of VSMC.

CONCLUSIONS

In porcine ciliary artery, the endothelium-dependent relaxations to bradykinin are primarily mediated by NO and involve K(+)-channels. As only relaxations to bradykinin, but not those mediated by SNP, were inhibited by TEA, this implies that K(+)-channel blockers most likely affect the bradykinin-evoked NO production or release by the endothelium.

A preliminary morphometric study on the endometrium from patients treated with indomethacin-releasing copper intrauterine device

The intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective method of birth control. However, IUD-induced uterine bleeding is a major side-effect and always causes inconvenience, sometimes even anaemia. It has been reported that oral administration of indomethacin could can reduce IUD-induced uterine bleeding. In the present study, we investigated whether indomethacin-releasing copper IUD (IR-Cu-IUD) can prevent insertion-induced uterine bleeding and its mechanism. Nine healthy volunteers of reproductive age were selected for the study. Endometrial tissues were collected at same menstrual stage prior to and 3-6 months after IR-Cu-IUD insertion. Endometrial morphology, cell proliferation/differentiation, morphometry and activity of complement Factor VIII were examined. No significant difference was found in any of the parameters examined in the same patients, both prior to and after IR-Cu-IUD insertion. By comparison with data previously obtained from the patients who had Cu-IUD insertions, it is clear that IR-Cu-IUD markedly reduced IUD-induced uterine bleeding and this reduction is primarily contributed by the anti-inflammatory action of indomethacin.

[Changes of BDNF mRNA by molecular hybridization during embryonic spinal cord repairing injury of adult rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the changes of (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) BDNF mRNA during embroyonic spinal cord repairing spinal cord injury of adult rats.

METHODS

At day 1,3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 30 after embryonic spinal cord being transplanted into acutely injured spinal cord of adult rats, changes of BDNF mRNA within donor tissue and host tissue were demonstrated qualitatively and quantitatively by in situ hybridization and dot hybridization.

RESULTS

Qualitatively, BDNF mRNA was mainly expressed within cytoplasm of motor neurons and a few gliocytes in normal spinal cord. After spinal cord injury, hybridizing products expanded to the mediate and small-sized neurons, also more gliocytes took part in hybridization response. Following transplantation, positively hybridizing neurons and gliocytes increased in number in host tissue, and embryonic spinal cord kept an expressing level similar to that before being transplanted. It was also revealed quantitatively that reacting intensity of the cells in the injured group was strikingly higher than that in the normal group. However, hybridization intensity in the transplanted group was even higher at many intervals than that in the injured group. Besides, the lasting period for hybridization reaction in the transplanted group was also different from that in the injured group. The most intensive reacting phase in the former presented at day 10 and 15, and in the latter at day 7 after operation.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that transplanted embryonic spinal cord can, besides provision neurol trophines for itself and host spinal cord, evoke synthetic mechanisms of host spinal cord once holding during its embryonic development so as to enhance expression of the neurotrophin. In this way, the host spinal cord may provide neurotrophin for its regeneration and provide an trophic environment for the grafts to develop and differentiate.

[Studies on the chemical constituents of Annona muricata]

Annonaceous acetogenin (or polyketide) is a kind of potential antineoplastic agents from Annonaceae plants. Two new acetogenins, Muricatalicin (I) and muricatalin (VI), a mesitoate of a new acetogenin, annonacin-B mesitoate (Vb), and three known acetogenins, annonacin (II), annonacin-A (III) and annonacin-10-one (IV) have been isolated from Annona muricata L. The structures and relative stereochemistry of I, VI and Vb were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis and examination of their acetates and/or mesitoate.

[A study on relationship between chemotherapy of acute leukemia and apoptosis in vivo]

In order to investigate whether apoptosis occurs in vivo in patients with leukemia in different stage (before, during and after chemotherapy). We detect apoptosis of peripheral blood leukemia cells in 10 patients before, during and after chemotherapy with in situ TdT fluorescence measurement and DNA electrophoresis. The results showed that apoptotic cells were few (0-2.9%) before chemotherapy, increased obviously (11.4%-72.0%) during chemotherapy in patients with complete remission (CR) or partial remission (PR), but decreased (0-2.9%) after chemotherapy (10-14 days). Apoptotic cells were few (0-5.7%) during chemotherapy in four patients without remission. Therefore, only effective drug therapy could induce apoptosis. DNA ladder cannot be detected by agarose gel electrophoresis either before, during and after chemotherapy. So we considered that in situ TdT assay is possible to apoptosis in vivo in the early course of chemotherapy for immediate modification of chemotherapy, while electrophoretic analysis is not sensitive enough to detect apoptotic cells in vivo.

Amlodipine and benazeprilat differently affect the responses to endothelin-1 and bradykinin in porcine ciliary arteries: effects of a low and high dose combination

PURPOSE

Visual field defects caused by vasospasm are often encountered in ophthalmology as a feature of glaucoma with poor response to conventional treatment. Combination therapy with drugs acting via different mechanisms might be more effective. Therefore, the effects of the calcium antagonist amlodipine and the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor benazeprilat at low and high dose combination on contractions to endothelin-1 and endothelium-dependent relaxations to bradykinin were examined in porcine ciliary arteries.

METHODS

Segments of the arteries were suspended in myographs for isometric tension recording.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of the vessels with either amlodipine, the low or high dose combination significantly reduced the sensitivity to endothelin-1 as compared to control (concentration shift 18.3-fold, 14.2-fold, 23.3-fold respectively; p < 0.05), while benazeprilat was ineffective. The maximal response to endothelin-1 (10(-7) M) was most inhibited by the high dose combination which reduced the contractions by 49% as compared to control (p < 0.05). The low dose combination and amlodipine alone were less effective (reduction: 25%; p < 0.05 and 20%; n.s., respectively). On the other hand, benazeprilat enhanced the sensitivity (concentration shift 73-fold; p < 0.05) and maximal relaxation to bradykinin (by 27%; p < 0.01), whereas amlodipine or the low or high dose combination were ineffective.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that amlodipine and benazeprilat differently affect vascular function of ciliary arteries. A high dose combination of both substances was most effective in inhibiting contractions to endothelin-1, suggesting a potentiating effect of the two compounds. In contrast, endothelium-dependent relaxations to bradykinin were enhanced by benazeprilat alone, but not when combined with amlodipine.

Expression of TNF alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6 mRNA, release of TNF alpha in vital organs and their relationship with endotoxin translocation following hemorrhagic shock

This study was designed to systematically investigate expression of TNF alpha, IL-1 beta, Il-6 mRNA in the liver, lungs and kidneys, release of TNF alpha in the above tissues, their relationship with hepatic, pulmonary and renal dysfunction, and distribution of endogenous endotoxin in tissues after hemorrhagic shock in mice and rats, with reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction, ELISA, etc, to elucidate the kinetics of expression and release of major cytokines in vital organs, their role and mechanism of production in shock. The results were: 1. expression of TNF alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6 mRNA in vital organs successively increased after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation, and TNF alpha expression was the first to appear followed by IL-1 beta. Though expression of IL-6 mRNA appeared late, it persisted longer; 2. TNF alpha levels in the liver, lungs and kidneys were all elevated but to different degrees after shock and resuscitation. At 3 hours after resuscitation, TNF alpha levels in the three above tissues were still significantly high, while plasma TNF alpha levels were already decreased to control levels; 3. hepatic, pulmonary and renal functions were damaged to different degrees after hemorrhagic shock, with hepatic dysfunction being the most severe; 4. endotoxin levels in the liver, lungs and kidneys were markedly increased after shock and resuscitation, and paralleled the expression of cytokine genes. In addition, there was significant correlation between changes in endotoxin level in tissues and TNF alpha release in tissues during early shock. It is suggested that expression and release of cytokines in vital organs might play an important role in local organ damage after hemorrhagic shock, and production of cytokines is related to endotoxin translocation.

[Quantitative study of calcitonin gene methylation in myelodysplastic syndromes]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of calcitonin gene hypermethylation in the transformation from myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) to acute myeloid leukemias (AML).

METHODS

The methylation rate of calcitonin gene (CTMR) in the genomic DNA extracted from bone marrow cell of 27 MDS patients and 6 AML patients with antecedent MDS were studied by PCR amplification of Hpa I digested DNA, with external reference of undigested and Msp I digested DNA and internal reference of 112bp fragment containing N-ras-61. Intensity of silver-stained PCR products was measured by densitometer and analysed using the computer program.

RESULTS

The CTMR was significantly higher in MDS (33.65% +/- 23.37%) than in control group (P<0.001), in 9 RAEB(T) (58.35% +/- 17.44%) than in the control and RA groups. Five RA patients who have survived three to ten years without leukemia, have a normal CTMR. Seven of 8 RAEB(T) patients who had a high CTMR of more than 30% evolved into AML in two months.

CONCLUSION

CTMR might be a useful marker for predicting the evolution of MDS into AML.

[Analysis of clonality with immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement fingerprinting map in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the types of the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene rearrangement and the co-existing clones in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) were used to construct the IgH-PCR-SSCP gene fingerprinting.

RESULTS

Of the 34 gene fingerprinting maps obtained from newly diagnosed ALL, 9 (32.14%) were one allelic rearrangement and 15 (53.75%) were biallelic in mono-clonal rearrangements. Four cases (14.29%) with high white cell count and precursor-B immunophenotype were oligoclonal rearrangements.

CONCLUSION

There were multiple IgH bi-allelic rearrangements and co-existing clones in childhood ALL.

Detection of minimal residual disease in leukemia using polymerase chain reaction and restriction analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between the clinical outcome of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and the status of minimal residual disease after termination of therapy.

METHODS

A total of 18 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia were studied. Eleven cases were treated with chemotherapy, the other 7 with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (ABSCT) or autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT). The outcome of the 18 patients was obtained by clinical follow-up. Minimal residual disease was detected by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction analysis.

RESULTS

Minimal residual disease was detected in 9 patients after completion of therapy. Three out of the 9 patients relapsed within 3 to 6 months. Among the other 9 patients with no detectable minimal residual disease, no one relapsed.

CONCLUSIONS

PCR detection of minimal residual disease after termination of therapy can identify patients at risk for relapse in future. Minimal residual disease that cannot be detected after termination of therapy may be one of the important factors for long-term disease-free survival.

Identification and analysis of the complete cDNA sequence for the human FAC1 gene

The complete cDNA sequence for the FAC1 gene has been isolated from human fetal brain. The FAC1 cDNA encodes for a protein of 810 amino acids that contains a putative Zn(2+)-finger binding domain, nuclear transport signals and a charged acidic domain that may function in protein-protein interactions. Identification of the complete cDNA and protein sequence of FAC1 permits further insight into potential functions for this developmentally regulated gene product.

Endothelin-1-induced release of thromboxane A2 increases the vasoconstrictor effect of endothelin-1 in postischemic reperfused rat hearts

BACKGROUND

The release and vasoconstrictor effect of endothelin-1 (ET-1) are increased after myocardial ischemia, suggesting a role for ET-1 in ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, the mechanisms of the increased vasoconstriction by ET-1 are unknown. The aim of this study was to test whether ET-1-induced release of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) contributes to the vasoconstrictor effect of ET-1 in nonischemic hearts and whether such release can increase the vasoconstrictor effect of ET-1 in postischemic reperfused hearts.

METHODS AND RESULTS

ET-1-induced release of TXA2 was assessed by measurement of the concentrations of its stable metabolite thromboxane B2 (TXB2) in the coronary effluent of nonischemic and reperfused isolated rat hearts before and after administration of 0.01 nmol ET-1 using an enzyme immunoassay. The contribution of ET-1-induced release of TXA2 to the vasoconstrictor effect of ET-1 was assessed by measurement of the effects of ET-1 with and without the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin or the TXA2/endoperoxide receptor antagonist SQ 30,741 using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In nonischemic hearts, ET-1 led to a small increase in TXB2 in the coronary effluent (3.9 +/- 1.5 pg/mL; n = 3), but neither indomethacin nor SQ 30,741 significantly diminished the vasoconstrictor effects of ET-1 (reduction of coronary flow, 4.0 +/- 0.4 and 4.5 +/- 0.3 mL/min, respectively, versus 4.9 +/- 0.5 mL/min for ET-1 alone; n = 8, 6, and 9, respectively). In postischemic reperfused hearts, however, ET-1 led to a greater increase in TXB2 (13.7 +/- 1.5 pg/mL; P < .05 versus nonischemic hearts; n = 3), and both indomethacin and SQ 30,741 diminished the vasoconstrictor effects of ET-1 (reduction of coronary flow, 2.6 +/- 0.3 and 2.2 +/- 0.3 mL/min, respectively, versus 4.0 +/- 0.1 mL/min for ET-1 alone; n = 8, 8, and 6, respectively; P < .05). Furthermore, indomethacin and SQ 30,741 prevented the detrimental effects of ET-1 on left ventricular developed pressure, intracellular pH, and phosphocreatine during reperfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

ET-1-induced release of TXA2 does not significantly contribute to the vasoconstrictor effect of ET-1 in nonischemic hearts but can increase the vasoconstrictor effect of ET-1 in postischemic reperfused hearts.

Detection of minimal residual disease in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia after termination of therapy

Using IgH and TCR gamma gene rearrangements as gene markers, we detected minimal residual disease (MRD) by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction analysis. Of 18 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), MRDs were detected in 9 patients after termination of therapy. All 18 patients had been followed for 1.5 to 102 months after detection. Three of the nine MRD-positive patients relapsed within 3 to 6 months; none of the nine MRD-negative patients relapsed. We suggest that MRD negativity at the end of therapy might be an important factor for long-term disease-free survival, because the negative cases had a very low risk of relapse. Because the outcome for MRD-positive cases is more difficult to evaluate, patients with MRD after termination of therapy should be monitored.

[Analysis of clonal origin of concomitant chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma in a patient with advanced age]

Concomitant chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare disease. Studies on the clonal origin of both lymphocyte and plasma cell in this disease has been few. So far it has not been reported in China. The paper reports a case of 92-year old patient with concomitant CLL and MM and the research results on the origin of lymphocyte and plasma cell by analyzing the morphologic characteristics, monoclonal antibodies, immunoglobulin Ig or TCR gene rearrangement (GR), Ig single-strand conformation polymorphsm (SSCP) fingerprint mapping and heteroduplex formation. The Ig H GR segments same in size, single strand conformation and sequence characteristics have been obtained from both peripheral blood and bone marrow DNA, even though the cells of CLL and MM had different characteristics in morphology and different secretion of IgM lambda and IgA lambda. The results suggested that the malignant cells of both CLL and MM in this patient had common origin from the B-cell.

[Detection of minimal disease in bone marrow from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and its clinical significance]

OBJECTIVE

Using some molecular biological techniques, we studied the clinical significance of minimal disease (MD) in bone marrow (BM) from the patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL).

METHOD

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzymes map analysis of PCR products (PCR/RE) were used to find the clonal gene rearrangement of IgH and TCR(gamma) for detecting MD in BM. The BM samples from 35 patients with NHL were examined by these techniques.

RESULTS

The incidences of MD in BM were 66% (23/35), 51% (18/35) in IgH group and 49% (17/35) in TCR(gamma) group. While the frequency of BM involvement detected by BM smear was 26% (9/35). Not only majority of patients with NHL in this series but also above half of patients (7/12) in stage I and II had MD in their BM. MD was related to histologic grade and systemic symptoms (P < 0.05). The incidence tended to be increased gradually from stage I to stage IV, and these patients with MD to be poorer in response rate, mortality and recurrence rate, though without statistical significant correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

NHL is a systemic disease. MD in BM may be a prognostic factor in NHL.

[The causes, diagnosis and treatment of aluminum toxicity in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing dialysis]

To study the causes, diagnosis and treatment of aluminum toxicity in patients with chronic renal failure, the serum aluminum concentration was determined in 27 normal subjects, 28 patients of various kinds of diseases with normal renal function and 81 patients of chronic renal failure with hemodialysis in 65 and without in 16, of whom 41 patients were determined the aluminum concentration in the bone tissue. Clinical symptoms were carefully observed in all patients and desferrioxamine (DFO) test was performed in 17 patients, of whom 10 were treated with DFO. The results showed that treatment with improperly processed water and administration of aluminum compound were the major causes of aluminum toxicity in uremic patients. Aluminum toxicity may induce anemia, encephalopathy and bone disease, but its clinical features were nonspecific and the diagnosis may require several serum aluminum determinations or DFO test. DFO can chelate aluminum in a variety of tissues so that the latter may be released into the blood circulation. The DFO test may be used to assess the actual aluminum load in the bone tissue. The changes in serum aluminum concentration after intravenous infusion of DFO correlated closely with bone aluminum level, suggesting that the DFO test may be useful for the diagnosis of aluminum toxicity. The DFO therapy may be indicated for, 1, patients with uremia having hyperaluminumnemia due to treatment with improperly processed water and intake of aluminum-containing agents. 2. those who had serum aluminum concentration of higher than 200 micrograms/L and positive DFO test and 3. patients whose aluminum concentration in the bone tissue was 10 times greater than normal values. In this study, DFO was given intravenously in a dose of 20-40 mg/kg, twice a week. Satisfactory results were obtained in 3 to 6 months and there were no severe side effects when the agent was administered slowly.

The effect of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (20 micrograms/day) (LNG-IUD-20) on the morphological structure of human endometrium: a study of the endometrial factor VIII activity in the women before and after insertion of LNG-IUD-20 by the digital image analysis

The specimens of endometria were obtained from 18 women using an intrauterine device releasing levonorgestrel at 20 micrograms/day (LNG-IUD-20). An immunoperoxidase reaction, PAP method, with the antiserum of Factor VIII as the primary antibody, was carried out in the endometrial biopsies to detect the Factor VIII activity in the endometrial endothelium before and after insertion of LNG-IUD-20. The immunoperoxidase activity was quantitatively assessed by a computer digital image analyser. The results revealed that there were a lower Factor VIII activity in the endometrial endothelial cells after insertion of LNG-IUD-20 (p < 0.001) when compared with the control. From the results of the present study, it is suggested that the synthesis and release of endometrial endothelial Factor VIII might be inhibited by the insertion of LNG-IUD20.

A morphometric study on the endometrial activity of women before and after one year with LNG-IUD in situ

The endometrium was studied by morphometry in 34 healthy women before and after one year's use of an IUD releasing levonorgestrel at a rate 20 micrograms/24 hr (LNG-IUD-20). The effect was compared with that of an IUD releasing 2 micrograms levonorgestrel/24 hr (LNG-IUD-2). The appearance of suppressed endometrial proliferative activity and increased inflammatory reaction was similar in the two experimental groups, suggesting that the morphological alterations were independent of the LNG dosage. The result of this study, combined with clinical data, suggests that LNG-IUD-20 could replace LNG-IUD-2 without any additional side effects. The efficacy of LNG-IUD-20 is also likely to last for a longer period than the LNG-IUD-2.

Fibronectin attachment is permissive for IL-1 mediated gene regulation

This study examines the effect of cell-matrix interaction on IL-1 induced gene regulation. In fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells attached to fibronectin, IL-1 caused a pronounced reduction in proteoglycan synthesis, while no reduction occurred in cells plated on bare plastic. Further, fibronectin attachment was permissive for IL-1 mediated suppression of both versican and collagen mRNA levels, initially noted after 4-6 h of IL-1 incubation. Attachment to vitronectin was less potent in influencing regulation, and collagen had no effect, suggesting specificity of the matrix modulation of the IL-1 induced response. Similar fibronectin induced dependence was demonstrated for IL-1 regulation of IL-6 gene expression, supporting the notion of a general effect of fibronectin receptor engagement on IL-1 induced signal transduction.

Bradykinin improves postischaemic recovery in the rat heart: role of high energy phosphates, nitric oxide, and prostacyclin

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to define: (1) whether bradykinin administration during reperfusion improves postischaemic myocardial recovery; (2) whether high energy phosphate compounds are involved in the protective effects of bradykinin; and (3) whether bradykinin-induced release of prostacyclin and nitric oxide mediate the protective effects of bradykinin.

METHODS

In the Langendorff rat heart preparation, coronary flow, left ventricular developed pressure, and, using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the high energy phosphate compounds phosphocreatine and beta-ATP were assessed during 15 min of global ischaemia and 30 min of reperfusion. Administration of 10(-7) M bradykinin was started before ischaemia and maintained throughout the experiment (BK-pre). This was compared to 10(-7) M bradykinin given exclusively with reperfusion (BK-post). Then 10(-7) M bradykinin was given simultaneously with 10(-4) M N omega-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (BK-LNAME) or 10(-5) M indomethacin (BK-indo).

RESULTS

In comparison to control hearts, BK-pre exerted a significant protective effect on the postischaemic recovery of coronary flow [71(5)% v 43(4)%, P < 0.05], left ventricular pressure [81(8)% v 42(5)%, P < 0.05], phosphocreatine [105(4)% v 67(8)%, P < 0.05], and beta-ATP [78(9)% v 48(7)%, P < 0.05]. With BK-post, recovery of coronary flow [71(4)% v 43(4)%, P < 0.05] and left ventricular pressure [78(4)% v 42(5)%, P < 0.05] significantly improved; however the recovery of phosphocreatine [70(4)% v 67(8)%, NS] and beta-ATP [58(2)% v 48(7)%, NS] was not different from control. When bradykinin and L-NAME or indomethacin was given the beneficial effects of bradykinin on ischaemic hearts were abolished.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) Bradykinin improved postischaemic myocardial recovery when given before ischaemia or starting exclusively with reperfusion; (2) this was only partially related to a protective action on the high energy phosphate compounds during ischaemia; (3) the beneficial effects of bradykinin on ischaemic hearts are dependent from an unrestrained action of prostacyclin and nitric oxide.

Color holography using the angular selectivity of volume recording media

A display hologram of an object can be recorded and reconstructed in three primary colors if the angular selectivity of volume recording media is exploited. Three holograms are recorded in the same medium, each at a different primary color. These three holograms are reconstructed by simultaneous illumination of the hologram with the original reference beams. By proper choice of the angles that the reference beams make to the hologram, it is possible to suppress strongly cross talk between the different reconstructions (e.g., the red object reconstruction in green light). The technique exhibits high resolution, high diffraction efficiency, and vivid colors. Through the addition of three holographically recorded volume gratings it is possible to reconstruct the hologram with a beam of white light. The saturation and brightness of each primary color in the reconstruction can be adjusted by selection of an appropriate thickness for the corresponding grating.

Typing Neisseria meningitidis by analysis of restriction fragment length polymorphisms in the gene encoding the class 1 outer membrane protein: application to assessment of epidemics throughout the last 4 decades in China

A typing method was developed for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup A by analysis of restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) of the class 1 outer membrane protein gene (porA). By using appropriate primers, an approximately 1,116-bp fragment of the porA gene was amplified by PCR and then was digested with the restriction endonuclease MspI. The digestion products were separated on 10% polyacrylamide gels and were stained with silver. One hundred three clinical isolates of group A N. meningitidis from 17 provinces of China collected over a 26-year period were analyzed. Results of MspI-generated RFLP profiles of PCR-amplified porA genes were compared with those obtained by conventional serosubtyping. There was a band of about 400 bp common to all strains examined, and the 103 strains of serogroup A resulted in 22 unique RFLP patterns. The differences in bands could be observed mainly in the range of 120 to 280 bp. The smaller fragments were useful in distinguishing meningococci with the same serosubtype. Three epidemic periods were characterized by the presence of three distinct genotypes (a1, a2, and a3), accounting for 74.5% of the strains examined (3.88, 26.21, and 44.66%, respectively). Three predominant RFLP patterns were correlated epidemiologically with cycles of epidemic meningococcal meningitis and were well-matched to the predominant serosubtypes (P1.9, P1.7, 10, and P1.9) that presented at the same prevalence cycles. The genotyping yielded information that allowed strains from one epidemic to be distinguished from those from another that would have been indistinguishable if only serotyping and serosubtyping were available. Therefore, the PCR-RFLP typing method was very useful in the epidemiologic investigation of group A meningococcal meningitis.

Ultrastructural study of the hemopoietic microenvironment in human fetal spleen

Reciprocal interactions between hemopoietic stromal cells and immature hemopoietic cells in human spleens obtained from 20 fetuses of 10-28 weeks gestation were observed by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The close association of stromal cells with immature hemopoietic cells was confirmed under the electron microscope and a presumptive HIM (Hemopoietic inductive microenvironment) was visualized. In regions of immature hemopoietic cell-reticular cell, endothelial cell, macrophage and interdigitating cell contact, some communicating structures were found between the plasma membranes of adjacent cells; moreover, the cytoplasm of these four stromal cells were full of various kinds of organelles. These results suggest that reticular cells, endothelial cells, macrophages and interdigitating cells are component parts of the HIM of human fetal spleen and that these cells have a nurturing function in relation to hemopoietic cells.

[Changes of PTH, 1,25(OH)2D3 and biochemistry in renal osteodystrophy]

The changes of plasma PTH, 1,25(OH)2D3, serum calcium, phosphorus and AKP were observed in 55 uremic patients with renal osteodystrophy. The results showed that: In all types of renal osteodystrophy, plasma PTH were markedly higher than normal (P < 0.001), while plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 and serum calcium were lower than normal (P < 0.001). In low bone-turnover uremic osteodystrophy (LTO), plasma phosphorus was markedly lower than that of high bone-turnover uremic osteodystrophy (HTO) and mixed uremic osteodystrophy (MO) (P < 0.05), and plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 was significantly lower than that of HTO (P < 0.05). In HTO and MO, serum phosphorus was much higher than normal (P < 0.001). Plasma PTH had a negative linear correlation with plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 (P < 0.05), a positive linear correlation with serum AKP (P < 0.05), but no linear correlation with the duration of hemodialysis, serum calcium, serum aluminum and bone aluminum content. Plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 had no linear correlation with the duration of hemodialysis, serum phosphorus, serum aluminum and bone aluminum content. There was no significant difference in the plasma PTH, 1,25(OH)2D3 and serum AKP between the bone aluminum stain positive and negative groups.

[A study on cellular differentiation and antigen receptor gene rearrangement in lymphoid malignancies]

Cellular differentiation origin and genotype of IgH and TCR gamma, delta gene rearrangement in 42 cases of lymphoid malignancies were studied by using immunoenzymatic method with monoclonal antibodies (McAbs) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique respectively. The results suggested that among the 23 cases, in which malignant cells expressed B-lineage cell surface markers, 20 showed IgH gene rearrangement and 11 had TCR gamma gene rearrangement and/or TCR delta gene deletion. All the 11 cases expressed T-lineage cell differentiation antigens were found to have TCR gamma and TCR delta gene rearrangement or deletion and only one had IgH gene rearrangement. Double rearrangement of IgH and TCR gamma genes were detected in all the 3 cases of T.B double-phenotype ALL. In the cases, in which malignant cells did not express any lineage specific antigens, 4/5 had TCR gamma gene rearrangement, but all failed in IgH gene rearrangement. The relation of cellular differentiation origin and rearrangement of antigen receptor genes with clinical manifestations was also discussed.

The presence of mast cells in the human endometrium pre- and post-insertion of intrauterine devices

A study of the density of mast cells in the human endometrium was carried out on biopsy specimens prepared for light microscopy in 87 cases with three types of IUDs (stainless steel ring SS-type, copper Cu-T 220 and LNG-IUD levonorgestrel-releasing device) pre- and post-insertion. The results revealed that, in general, there was an increase of mast cells after 3 to 24 months' use of IUD, independent of type (p < 0.01 when compared with the pre-insertion value). The increase in number of mast cells was most prominent in women having used the Cu-T220 IUD for 24 months (p < 0.05 when compared with the SS-IUD and p < 0.01 when compared with the LNG-IUD). The difference between the SS-IUD and the LNG-IUD as to the number of mast cells was not significant. No significant difference was found between the "bleeders" and "non-bleeders" in any of the three types of IUDs. It is noteworthy that patients using the Cu-T220-IUD had the highest percentage of patients with abnormal bleeding (> 50%) and that this group also had the highest density of mast cells per mm2 after 24 months' use. Although no significant difference with regard to the density of mast cells could be found between the "bleeders" and the "non-bleeders" in the present study, the number of "bleeders" of the three study groups is usually small and sometimes this number does not allow an adequate statistical analysis for comparison. Further investigations, involving larger number of IUD users, may yield a better understanding with regard to the potential relationship between the number of bleeding episodes and the density of mast cells in the human endometrium.

[A pathological analysis of 51 cases of renal osteodystrophy]

Renal osteodystrophy is a metabolic bone disease of chronic renal failure. The long-standing alterations in mineral metabolism generated by renal failure have a profound effect on the skeleton and induce severe systemic metabolic bone disease. Iliac crest biopsy was performed in 51 patients of chronic renal failure and examined with microscopy. The histological bone changes are characterized by ostitis fibrosa, increased resorption of bone and number of osteoclasts, increased osteoid volume (osteoblastic osteoid and acellular osteoid), active remodelling of bone and aluminum deposition in bone. According to the histological appearance, advanced renal bone disease can be subdivided into three major histological groups: secondly hyperparathyroid bone disease (high turnover uremic osteodystrophy), osteomalacia (low turnover uremic osteodystrophy) and mixed uremic osteodystrophy consisting of mild to moderate hyperparathyroid bone disease and defective mineralization. Aluminum-related bone changes can be seen in varying degrees in all these groups. Even though these groups do not fully represent separate entities and transformation from one form to another can occur, it is essential to distinguish them since therapy can be tailored according to the predominant histologic findings.