[Immunohistochemistry research on keratoconus]

PURPOSE

Keratoconus is a noninflammatory disease characterized by thining and ectasia of the central cornea. The etiology and pathogenesis of keratoconus remain unclear. We studied the composition of basement membranes (BM) in normal, scarred and keratconus corneas to find out possible changes specific for keratoconus.

METHODS

Paraffin-embeded sections of normal, scarred and keratoconus corneas were immunostained with antibodys against type IV collagen, Fibronectin (Fn) and Laminin (Ln).

RESULTS

Keratoconus had increased staining of the epithelial BM for alpha 1-alpha 2 chain of type IV collagen and Fn, especially in scarred corneal regions. A similar enhancement was also observed in scarred corneas, and there was no significant difference between keratoconus and scarred cornea.

CONCLUSION

A process similar to wound healing would largely contribute to the differences seen in the keratoconus.

Preparation of bean curds from protein fractions of six legumes

Chickpeas, lentils, smooth peas, mung beans, and faba beans were milled into flours and fractionated to protein and starch fractions. Compositions of the seeds, cotyledons, and flours were compared for each legume and the weight and protein recovery of each fraction analyzed. Bean curds were prepared from the protein fractions through heat denaturation of protein milk, followed by coagulation with calcium sulfate or magnesium sulfate. The effect of chickpea protein concentration and coagulant dosage on the texture of bean curds was evaluated using a texture analyzer. Textural analysis indicated that curd prepared at 2.3-3.0% protein concentration and 1.5% CaSO(4) dosage had better yield and better texture than curds prepared under other conditions. Bean curds prepared from chickpeas and faba beans exhibited the second highest springiness and cohesiveness after those from soybeans. Curds of mung beans and smooth peas, on the other hand, had the highest yields and the highest moisture contents. The protein yield of the first and second soluble extracts used for curd preparation accounted for approximately 90% of the total protein of the seeds.

Mammalian histone deacetylase 1 protein is posttranslationally modified by phosphorylation

HDAC1, a member of the histone deacetylase family, is involved in transcription regulation through the modification of chromatin structure. Several studies also implicated HDAC1 in tumorigenesis. Much attention has been concentrated on protein-protein interactions involving HDAC1 and the possibility that posttranslational modifications may occur in mammalian HDAC1 proteins has not been carefully and systematically investigated. In this study, we utilized in vivo labeling assays to demonstrate that both human and murine HDAC1 proteins are phosphorylated in cells. Assays using HDAC1 deletion mutants indicated that phosphorylation occurs in its C-terminal domain. cAMP-dependent kinase and casein kinase II, but not protein kinase C, cdc2, or MAP kinase, could phosphorylate HDAC1 in vitro, although HDAC1 contains several protein kinase C consensus sites. We also found that phosphorylation did not influence HDAC1 enzymatic activity using a human histone H4 N-terminal peptide as the substrate. Interestingly, HDAC1-FLAG fusion protein immunoprecipitated from transfected cells was found to be in association with a kinase activity, providing an in vitro assay for further studies of this posttranslational modification.

Error-compensated kinetic determinations by detecting the reagent in successive reactions

An error-compensated algorithm based on detecting the reagent in successive reactions is proposed. The algorithm was first studied by using simulated data and it was found that it performed well in compensating for the system error and eliminating random noise. Then the algorithm was examined by applying it to the determination of epinephrine and norepinephrine under different experimental conditions. The results revealed that the algorithm compensated errors produced not only by the changes of rate constants, but also by the variation of equilibrium signals.

[Production of herbicide-resistant rice with transforming heterogene]

Using pAHC20 (containing Bar gene), pWRG1515 (containing GUS gene and hygromycin phosphotransferase gene), and pCAMBIA3300 RG with Bar gene and snowdrop lectin (GNA) gene as donor DNA, the micro-adventitious shoots and the calli induced from mature embryos of Oryza sativa 87203, Eyi105, Shangnong aromatic glutinous rice as recipients were transformed with particle bombardment and Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 containing pAL4404, respectively. After chosen with phosphinothricin and antibiotic, GUS detection and PCR analysis, The results showed that the foreign genes had been transformed microprojectile-mediated to Oryza sativa Eyi105, the regeneration plants were obtained, and, 5 transgenic calli of Oryza sativa Eyi105 were obtained with Agrobacterium-mediated transformation.

Sensory fibers of the pelvic nerve innervating the Rat's urinary bladder

Much attention has been given to the pelvic nerve afferent innervation of the urinary bladder; however, reports differ considerably in descriptions of afferent receptor types, their conduction velocities, and their potential roles in bladder reflexes and sensation. The present study was undertaken to do a relatively unbiased sampling of bladder afferent fibers of the pelvic nerve in adult female rats. The search stimulus for units to be studied was electrical stimulation of both the bladder nerves and the pelvic nerve. Single-unit activity of 100 L(6) dorsal root fibers, activated by both pelvic and bladder nerve stimulation, was analyzed. Sixty-five units had C-fiber and 35 units had Adelta-fiber conduction velocities. Receptive characteristics were established by direct mechanical stimulation, filling of the bladder with 0.9% NaCl at a physiological speed and by filling the bladder with solutions containing capsaicin, potassium, or turpentine oil. The majority (61) of these fibers were unambiguously excited by bladder filling with 0.9% NaCl and were classified as mechanoreceptors. All mechanoreceptors with receptive fields on the body of the bladder had low pressure thresholds (</=10 mmHg). Receptive fields of units with higher thresholds were near the ureterovesical junction, on the base of the bladder or could not be found. Neither thresholds nor suprathreshold responses could be related to conduction velocity. Bladder compliance and mechanoreceptor thresholds were influenced by the stage of the estrous cycle: both were lowest in proestrous rats and highest in metaestrous rats. Mechanoreceptors innervating the body of the bladder and the region near the ureterovesical junction showed two patterns of responsiveness to slow bladder filling. One group of units exhibited increasing activity with increasing pressure up to 40 mmHg, while the other group showed a peak in activity at pressures below 40 mmHg followed by a plateau or decrease in activity with increasing pressure. It is proposed that differences in stimulus transduction relate to the different response patterns. Thirty-nine units failed to respond to bladder filling. Eight of these were excited by intravesical potassium or capsaicin and were classified as chemoreceptors. The remaining 31 units were not excited by any stimulus tested. Chemoreceptors and unexcited units had both Adelta and C afferent fibers. We conclude that the pelvic nerve sensory innervation of the rat bladder is complex, may be sensitive to hormonal status, and that the properties of individual sensory receptors are not related in an obvious manner to the conduction velocity of their fibers.

Study of the fluorescence characteristics of norfloxacin in reversed micelles and application in analysis

The fluorescence characteristics of norfloxacin (NFLX) were studied in reversed micelles which formed with sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT)-water-octane. The influences of the environmental factors, such as the water content, AOT concentration and pH, on the fluorescence of NFLX were investigated. A novel spectrofluorimetric method for the direct determination of NFLX is proposed based on the enhancement effect of reversed micelles on the native fluorescence of NFLX, which showed a much lower detection limit (0.0032 microgram mL-1) and a wider linear range (0.015-3.8 micrograms mL-1) compared with aqueous solution.

Study on three-dimensional fluorescent spectral characteristics of fluoroquinolones in varying media

Behaviors of fluoroquinolones in varying media were observed by employing their intrinsic fluorescence. Spectral characteristics in reversed micelles (Aerosol OT/n-octane) were compared with those in aqueous solution and micelles (sodium dodecyl sulfonate). Those differences in interactions between fluoroquinolones and the various media were clearly illustrated by three-dimensional fluorescent spectra. The influences of other environmental factors on spectral characteristics (pH, SDS concentration, etc.) were also investigated.

Lack of association between a biallelic polymorphism in the adducin gene and blood pressure in whites and African Americans

Population-based candidate gene association analyses are becoming increasingly popular as a result of a greater number of genes and gene polymorphisms having been identified for which some functional information is available. Because many biochemical and physiologic systems impact blood pressure regulation and hypertension susceptibility, many of these identified genes and polymorphisms are candidates for population-level association studies involving blood pressure levels or hypertension status. Recent studies have suggested that the alpha-adducin gene may harbor polymorphisms that influence blood pressure level. Therefore, we embarked on a study to test one such polymorphism in two large US samples: one from an urban African American population (Maywood, IL) and another from a rural white population (Tecumseh, MI). We used both family-based association tests and tests that consider the impact of additional measured factors beyond adducin gene variation on blood pressure levels. We found no evidence for a significant effect of the chosen adducin polymorphism on blood pressure variation in either sample. We also found no association between Adducin genotypes and antihypertensive use. These facts, together with similar findings in companion studies, suggest that the alpha-adducin gene polymorphism does not have a pronounced effect on blood pressure variation in the populations studied. This does not suggest, however, that the alpha-adducin gene does not have a role in blood pressure regulation and hypertension susceptibility.

[Photoluminescence study of star-like C60(CH3)x(PAN)x copolymer]

Thin film of new synthesized C60(CH3)x(PAN)x copolymer was fabricated by physical jet deposition (PJD) technique. C60 molecule lies in the center of the star-like copolymers. PAN main chain is modified around the C60 molecules. Absorption and photoluminescence spectra show that there are strong interaction between C60 molecule and PAN, which depends on the length of PAN chain. Partly excitation transfer process between C60 molecule and PAN was observed, which leads to the fluorescence quenching of the PAN.

[Experimental study of lymph node flap transplantation for treatment of lymphedema]

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the treatment of lymphedema by using lymph node flap.

METHODS

Upper limbs' lymphedema model in 14 rabbits were divided into two groups. They were treated with lymph node flap transplantation and general flap transplantation.

RESULTS

Lymph node transplantation can reduce lymphedema and general flap transplantation can not significantly reduce lymphedema.

CONCLUSION

Lymph node flap can be used to treat extremity's lymphedema.

HIV-I TAT inhibits PKR activity by both RNA-dependent and RNA-independent mechanisms

Replication of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is inhibited by interferons (IFNs), in part through activity of the IFN-inducible protein kinase PKR. To escape this antiviral effect, HIV-1 has developed strategies for blocking PKR function. We have previously shown that the HIV-1 Tat protein can associate with PKR in vitro and in vivo and inhibit PKR activity. Here we present evidence that Tat can inhibit PKR activity by both RNA-dependent and RNA-independent mechanisms. Tat inhibited PKR activation by the non-RNA activator heparin, and also suppressed PKR basal level autophosphorylation in the absence of RNA. However, when Tat and dsRNA were preincubated, the amount of Tat required to inhibit PKR activation by dsRNA depended on the dsRNA concentration. In addition to its function in vitro, Tat can also reverse translation inhibition mediated by PKR in COS cells. The Tat amino acid sequence required for interaction with PKR was mapped to residues 40-58, overlapping the hydrophobic core and basic region of HIV-1 Tat. Alignment of amino acid sequences of Tat and eIF-2alpha indicates similarity between the Tat-PKR binding region and the residues around the eIF-2alpha phosphorylation site, suggesting that Tat and eIF-2alpha may bind to the same site on PKR.

[Observation of special stain and ultrastructure of lattice, granular and macular corneal dystrophy]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the histopathological changes of lattice, granular and macular corneal dystrophy.

METHODS

Corneal buttons were obtained from penetrating keratoplasty due to severe corneal dystrophy, and their sections and ultrathin sections with several special stains were observed under a light microscope (LM) and electron microscope (EM).

RESULTS

In cases with lattice dystrophy, the stromal fusiform deposits seen under LM were confirmed to be amorphous materiel with filaments by EM and stained positively for Masson trichrome, PAS and Congo red. In cases with granular dystrophy, the granular or bread debris deposits found between laminae under LM were extracellular material observed by EM and they were stained positively for Masson trichrome and alcian blue. In cases with macular dystrophy, the stromal spheroid or macular deposits were seen under LM, and there were numerous vacuoles containing fibrils and granules in the cytoplasm of keratocytes and accumulative amorphous material in the stroma under EM; the deposits were positive for colloidal iron and alcian blue stain.

CONCLUSION

In corneal lattice dystrophy, there are amyloid deposits; in granular dystrophy, there are extracellular material deposits; and in macular dystrophy, there is mucopolysaccharide accumulation.

[Effects of Dexamethasone, Fluorometholone and Florex on intraocular pressure after photorefractive keratectomy]

To evaluate the results of elevated intraocular pressure (IO) secondary to dropping of 0.1% Dexamethasone, Fluorometholone and Florex for 1-3 months after photorefractive keratectomy, we summed up and analysed the 3-month follow-up data on 546 eyes in three groups. The rates of IO elevated in Dexamethasone, Fluorometholone and Florex were 36%, 12.4% and 31.9% respectively. After topical use of corticosteroid, some of the elevations of IO took place as early as two weeks, but most of them occurred around 1 month. Eleven patients with IO elevation of both eyes had visual acuity decreased associated with eye-ache and halos and the other patients had no symptoms. After discontinuation of corticosteroid and institution of antiglaucoma therapy, the IO became normal in 3-7 days. In practice, this means that patients receiving corticosteroid eyedrops for more than two weeks should be checked for the possibility of ocular hypertension to prevent the corticosteroid glaucoma.

Effects of fibroblast-mediated interleukin 3 and interleukin 6 gene therapy on hematopoiesis in mice treated with 5-fluorouracil

Fibroblast-mediated cytokine gene therapy has proven to be a promising strategy for restoring hematopoiesis following repeated chemotherapy. Interleukin 3 (IL-3) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) can synergistically promote the recovery of hematopoiesis following chemotherapy. In this investigation, combined use of fibroblast-mediated IL-3 and IL-6 gene therapy was tested for hematopoietic effects on mice with or without 5-fluorouracil administration. The results demonstrated that combined therapy with IL-3 gene-modified NIH3T3 cell (NIH3T3-IL-3) and IL-6 gene-modified fibroblast NIH3T3 cell (NIH3T3-IL-6) implantation achieves obvious stimulation of hematopoiesis in normal mice and accelerates recovery of hematopoiesis. In normal mice the quantities of platelets, neutrophils, and total white blood cells in peripheral blood increased significantly after the combined implantation of NIH3T3-IL-3 and NIH3T3-IL-6 cells. The numbers of colony-forming unit (CFU) granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM) and CFU megakaryocyte (CFU-MK) formed by stem cells in bone marrow was significantly higher after the combined implantation of NIH3T3-IL-3 and NIH3T3-IL-6 cells than after the implantation of NIH3T3-IL-3 alone, NIH3T3-IL-6 alone, or neomycin gene-modified NIH3T3 cells. In hematopoiesis-depressed mice induced by preinjection with 5-fluorouracil at the dose of 150 mg/kg before cell implantation, the platelets, neutrophils, and white blood cells showed accelerated recovery, and the numbers of CFU-GM and CFU-MK formed by bone marrow cells were also markedly higher after the combined implantation of NIH3T3-IL-3 and NIH3T3-IL-6 cells than in control groups. Our data show that combined use of fibroblast-mediated IL-3 and IL-6 gene therapy may be of clinical relevance for the recovery of hematopoietic depression for patients after chemotherapy.

[Effects of 764-3 on collagen deposition in hypertensive pulmonary arteries in hypoxic rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes of collagen deposition in pulmonary arteries in chronic hypobaric hypoxic rats and the roles of 764-3.

METHODS

Wistar rats were divided into 10 groups. The hypoxic (50.7 kPa) rats were treated with 764-3 (20 mg/kg, once daily) and beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN, 150 mg/kg, twice daily), respectively. At the end of treatment, the hemodynamic morphological and chemical parameters were measured.

RESULTS

Comparing with the normals, hydroxyproline (HYP) content of extrapulmonary artery (EPA) increased obviously in hypoxic rats, the smooth muscle cells (SMC) in the media of muscular intra-acinar pulmonary artery showed hypertrophy with change in phenotype, and a striking increment of collagen accumulation (P < 0.001); 764-3 could reduce HYP content of EPA (P < 0.05-0.001), and most of SMC in the media became thin and elongated with reversion of change of SMC phenotype, and collagen accumulation was reduced (P < 0.001). In addition, BAPN was more effective than 764-3 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive collagen accumulation in pulmonary arteries plays an important role in the maintenance of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. 764-3 can partially inhibit collagen deposition in pulmonary arteries, attenuate hypoxic pulmonary hypertension, and has a moderate influence on collagen deposition in compared with BAPN.

[Effects of an extract of salviae miltiorrhizae (764-3) on structural remodeling of intra-acinar pulmonary artery in pulmonary hypertension due to chronic hypoxia and monocrotaline in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of an extract of salviae miltiorrhizae (764-3) on the percentage of intra-acinar muscular artery (MA), partal MA(PMA) and nonmuscular MA(NMA) and collagen deposition in the media of MA in rats with hypoxia and MCT-induced pulmonary hypertension.

METHOD

Wistar rats were divided into 12 groups. The hypobaric hypoxic 51 kPa (1 kPa = 7.5 mmHg) and MCT (60 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection) rats were treated with 764-3 (20 mg/kg), beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN, 150 mg/kg) and 764-3 (40 mg/kg), respectively. At each time point, the hemodynamic and morphological parameters were measured.

RESULT

After hypoxia for 2 weeks, the percentage of MA increased (P < 0.001), of NMA decreased (P < 0.001) and of PMA no obvious change; and after 4 weeks, the above changes became to be more striking and the collagen content in the media of MA increased (P < 0.001). The MCT-treated rats had more severe changes than the hypoxic rats. Both 764-3 and BAPN could inhibit the changes, decreased the collagen content and BAPN was more effective than 764-3(P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

764-3 can partially inhibit collagen deposition in pulmonary arterioles attenuate hypoxia and MCT-induced pulmonary hypertension, reduce the percentage of MA, and has a moderate influence on collagen deposition as compared with BAPN.

Mutations in the double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase insert region that uncouple catalysis from eIF2alpha binding

The interferon-induced, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase, PKR, inhibits protein synthesis via phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of the translation initiation factor eIF2. A kinase insert region N-terminal of PKR kinase subdomain V, which is conserved among eIF2alpha kinases, has been proposed to determine substrate specificity of these kinases. To investigate the function of this kinase insert region, selective PKR mutants were generated, and kinase activities and eIF2alpha affinities were analyzed in vitro. The in vivo function was investigated by growth inhibitory assays in yeast and translational assays in COS cells. Among the 13 mutations, 5 lost kinase activity and 3 exhibited less than 30% of wild-type eIF2alpha binding activity. The deletion of the conserved sequence (amino acids 362-370) resulted in a protein that had no kinase activity and only about 25% of wild-type eIF2alpha binding, suggesting that this sequence is not only required for PKR kinase activity but also is important for substrate interaction. It was determined that the hydrophobicity of the conserved sequence of PKR is required for kinase activity but is not crucial for eIF2alpha binding. The amino acid residue Glu-367 in the conserved motif was shown to be directly involved in substrate binding but was not important for kinase activity. These results suggest that the activation of PKR is not a prerequisite for its binding to the substrate and that the conserved motif in subdomain V contributes to the interaction of PKR and eIF2alpha.

Augmentation of hematopoiesis by fibroblast-mediated interleukin-6 gene therapy in mice with chemotherapy

Murine fibroblast NIH3T3 cells engineered to secrete interleukin-6 (NIH3T3-IL-6) were implanted intraperitoneally into mice and observed for their hematopoietic effects with or without 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) administration. In normal mice, the platelet and neutrophil counts in peripheral blood increased significantly after implantation of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells, but the total white blood cell numbers showed no obvious elevation. The granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming unit (CFU-GM) and megakaryocyte colony-forming unit (CFU-MK) numbers formed by stem cells in bone marrow and spleen were also found to be significantly increased after implantation of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells when compared with those in mice after implantation of NIH3T3 cells transduced with neomycin gene (NIH3T3-Neo). To observe the protective effects of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells on hematopoietic depression in chemotherapy-treated mice, the mice were preinjected with 5-FU at a dosage of 150 mg/kg before implantation of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells. The platelet and neutrophil counts showed accelerated recovery after implantation of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells. The numbers of CFU-GM and CFU-MK in bone marrow and spleen were also found to be markedly increased in hematopoietic-depressed mice when compared with those in mice implanted with NIH3T3-Neo cells. These data suggest that fibroblast-mediated IL-6 gene therapy, which can augment hematopoiesis in mice with or without chemotherapy, will be of great help in the recovery from hematopoietic depression after chemotherapy.

[Clinical study of pulmonary encephalopathy with integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical effectiveness of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine (TCM-WM) on pulmonary encephalopathy.

METHODS

Eight three patients of pulmonary encephalopathy were allocated randomly into the TCM-WM group and the control group. The therapeutic method for the control group including continuous low flow oxygen intake with mechanical ventilation available when necessary, antiasthmatics and expectorants improve ventilation, sufficient and combined intravenous infusion of antibiotics, and prescription of diuretics for dehydration under the therapeutic principle of mild, small dosage, combined and intermittent in use. For the TCM-WM group, besides above-mentioned medication, Chinese medicine of clear up the Heat and toxin, tranquilizing, restore consciousness and induce resuscitation, bactericiding and expelling their toxin. The anti-pulmonary-encephalopathy injection was given as soon as possible.

RESULTS

The total effective rate of the TCM-WM group reached 83.0% and was higher than that of the control group (63.9%) significantly (P < 0.05). Time for restoring consciousness in the former was also shorter than that of the latter significantly (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

This study provided both method and experience for the treatment of pulmonary encephalopathy with TCM-WM.

Experimental study of lymph node auto-transplantation in rats

OBJECTIVE

To observe the restoration of structure and function of auto-transplanted lymph nodes.

METHODS

Inguinal lymph nodes in Spregue-Dawley (SD) rats were auto-transplanted by free implantation, or with an intact vascular pedicle, or by free transplantation with microvascular anastomosis, to the popliteal fossa where lymph nodes were removed. The observation methods included emission computerized tomographic (ECT) scanning, staining of China ink and methylthionine chloride to observe the histological changes.

RESULTS

After four weeks, these vascularized nodes showed normal histological appearances and spontaneously reestablished afferent and efferent lymphatic reconnection with the surrounding lymphatic vessels. ECT lymphoscintigraphy with 99mTc-Dx showed that vascularized lymph nodes had restored their normal function.

CONCLUSION

Vascularized lymph node transplantation is a useful method for draining extremity lymph edema.

Accelerated recovery of irradiation-induced bone marrow depression by fibroblast-mediated interleukin 6 gene therapy in combination with bone marrow transplantation in mice

BACKGROUND

Both fibroblast-mediated cytokine gene therapy and bone marrow transplantation (BMT) have proven to be efficient protocols for the recovery of bone marrow depression. In this report, the effects of fibroblast-mediated interleukin (IL)-6 gene therapy, in combination with BMT, on the recovery of irradiation-induced bone marrow depression were investigated.

METHODS

NIH3T3 fibroblast cells engineered to secrete IL-6 (NIH3T3-IL-6) or NIH3T3 cells transduced with the neomycin gene (NIH3T3-Neo), in combination with 10(7), 10(6), or 10(5) syngeneic bone marrow cells, were implanted into irradiated mice.

RESULTS

The platelets and white blood cells in the peripheral blood of the irradiated mice increased greatly 12 days after implantation of NIH3T3-IL-6 cells and BMT, the white blood cell counts were restored to a normal level 32 days after the combined therapy, and the platelet number was obviously higher than that in mice implanted with NIH3T3-Neo and BMT. Twenty and 25 days after the combined therapy, the mice showed accelerated recovery of colony-forming unit (CFU)-granulocyte/macrophages and CFU-megakaryocytes when compared with the mice implanted with NIH3T3-Neo cells and BMT. Ten days after lethal irradiation with gamma rays, the spleens formed more CFU-spleen in mice implanted with NIH3T3-IL-6 cells and BMT than in mice injected with phosphate-buffered saline or NIH3T3-Neo cells. Combined therapy with NIH3T3-IL-6 cell implantation and BMT delayed the survival period of the hematopoietic-depressed mice significantly when compared with therapy with NIH3T3-Neo cell implantation and BMT.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrated that the combined therapy of fibroblast-mediated IL-6 gene therapy and BMT could significantly promote the recovery of irradiation-induced hematopoietic depression.

[Math-model of efficient cultivation of Angelica sinensis]

Using two-time general rotation-constitution design, the math-mdele has been founded about Angelica sinensis prodution efficiency and quantity of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to use by doing experiments in many different spots and production demonstration for testing and verifying. Accordin to the modle, computer is used to simulate the better, through which people can get fresh Chinese angelica over 500 Kg per mu and also net income over 500 yuan per mu. It shows that this is the best combination. 95% density riliability for this plan is 6860-7600 plants, pure nitrogen 18.75-22.2 Kg, P2O5 9.1-11.1 Kg and K2O 4.46-5.37 Kg One mu. Proportion for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium is 1:0.49:0.24.

[Effect of 764-3 on ventricular collagen deposition in pulmonary hypertension induced by chronic hypoxia and monocrotaline in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of 764-3 on ventricular collagen deposition in pulmonary hypertension induced by chronic hypoxia or monocrotaline (MCT) in rats.

METHODS

Wistar rats were divided into 10 groups. The hypobaric hypoxia group received 764-3 20 mg/kg once daily subcutaneously and the MCT group treated with 764-3 40 mg/kg once daily. The hemodynamic and biochemical parameters were measured.

RESULTS

At the time of 2 weeks and 4 weeks after treated with hypoxia or MCT, the pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) of rats raised significantly and the right ventricular collagen content (RVCC) increased markedly. 764-3 could reduce the raised PAP induced either by hypoxia or MCT. It could lower the elevated RVCC of hypobaric hypoxia group at 2 weeks from 76.3 +/- 13.3 to 59.4 +/- 11.4 (P < 0.01), and the RVCC of MCT group lowered from 293.4 +/- 73.9 to 210.1 +/- 37.6(P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

764-3 could partially prevent right ventricular collagen deposition induced by hypoxia and has therapeutic effect on that induced by MCT.

First trimester pregnancy loss associated with varicella zoster virus infection: histological definition of a case

Pathological demonstration of varicella infection in first trimester aborted tissue is reported. A 24-year-old primigravida manifested chickenpox infection about 38 days after her last menstrual period or at 24 days age of the embryo. The conceptus survived another 4 to 5 weeks. The macerated embryo and placental tissue revealed nuclear changes consistent with varicella infection. Immunohistochemical stains and electron microscopy were confirmatory.

The determinative role of intraoperative echo in tricuspid valvuloplasty

A transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was used in monitoring the operation of tricuspid valvuloplasty. Nine patients with rheumatic heart disease were studied. The results showed that intraoperative TEE was important on the improving method of tricuspid annuloplasty, it help to determine surgical procedure, control annulus-reducing procedure and assess the result immediately after operation. The results suggested that intraoperative TEE can be widely used in valvuloplasty in future.

[A three-month follow-up study of excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for myopia]

In order to evaluate the efficacy of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in the treatment of myopia, we summed up and analysed the 3-month follow-up data on 145 cases treated in our hospital. Prior to PRK, refractive dioptal was -1.5 to -11.5; visual acuity was less than 0.1 in 137 cases (94%) and less than 0.5 in 8 cases(6%). One month after operation, the mean refractive dioptal was +0.98 +/- 0.88; visual acuity increased to > or = 1.0 in 95 cases (66%) and to > or = 0.5 in 142 cases(98%). Three months after operation, the mean refractive dioptal was -0.13 +/- 1.09; visual acuity increased to > or = 1.0 in 104 cases(72%) and to > or = 0.5 in 135 cases(93%). There was no severe complication noted in all cases. The results demonstrate that PRK is and effective, safe and predictable treatment for myopia.

[Study on standard of patch test for cosmetic allergens]

39 allergens, chemical ingredients commonly used in cosmetics in China, were tested. The safe concentration of allergens was determined in experiments on animals. On the basis of the above results and referring to the literature, the concentration of allergens used in patch test for human was designed and the patch test was carried out on 10 volunteers by routine method. Finally the concentration which gave no reaction in all 10 volunteers was verified in patients with eczema or contact dermatitis. The rate of positive reactions for each allergen was raged from 0 to 12% with an average 3.4%, According to the results of three above mentioned experiments the series of allergen standards for patch test was established. It is used as an appendix to the document for diagnostic criteria and principles of management of consmetic diseases.

Cutaneous malignant melanoma in the young

Between the years 1967 and 1993, 3246 patients were diagnosed with malignant melanoma at Frenchay Hospital, Bristol. This paper reports 47 patients, 21 years of age or under, including 10 preadolescent cases under 14 years of age. It represents a further follow-up of a cohort originally published from this centre in 1986 in addition to 18 new cases. Most (89%) of the lesions occurred on the trunk and extremities, with females showing a predominance of lesions on the lower limbs. 83% of the melanomas were of the superficial spreading type: 72% invaded to Clark level III and IV. Thickness ranged from 0.29 mm to 50.00 mm (median 1.20 mm). Ulceration was present in 17% of cases and 32% of melanomas arose within a pre-existing small congenital melanocytic naevus. Overall 5-year survival was 81%, with a mean follow-up of 8.5 years. Ulceration and tumour thickness of greater than 1.5 mm were associated with a poor prognosis.

Early occurrence and prognostic significance of p53 alteration in primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube

The pathogenesis of primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube (PCFT) is poorly understood. Tumor suppressor p53 gene alterations are common in human malignancies, but their role in the tumorigenesis and survival of PCFT is undefined. The objectives of this study were to define the occurrence and prognostic role of p53 alteration in PCFT and to examine the efficiency of immunohistochemistry (IHC) in detecting p53 alteration in PCFT. Fifty-two PCFT and 10 normal fallopian tubes were examined for p53 alteration by IHC and polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to derive the survival function, while the log-rank test was used to compare curves for two or more groups. Other patients' characteristics were analyzed by two-tailed Fisher's exact tests. IHC correlated well with PCR-SSCP with 100% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity for detecting p53 alteration in this study. Thirty-one of 52 (57%) PCFT showed p53 alteration. Alteration of p53 occurred in all stages of PCFT with a similar incidence in carcinoma in situ and late-stage disease. Alteration of p53 was related to tumor histologic type. Significant survival difference was noted between advanced and early clinical stages but no such difference was identified among different tumor grades. Compared to the p53-nonaltered group, the presence of p53 alteration in PCFT was related to significantly decreased patient survival (RR = 6.8, 95% CI = 2.9-16.2) in multivariate analysis. In the subgroup of patients with residual tumor after surgery, those with p53-altered tumors had a significantly decreased survival compared to those with p53-nonaltered group (RR = 7.4, 95% CI = 1.9-28.2). Alteration of p53 is common and IHC is an efficient method to detect p53 alteration in PCFT. Shorter survival is associated with p53 alteration which is an independent marker for the disease in this study. Alteration of p53 may be an early event in tubal tumorigenesis and may play an important role in the development of PCFT. Whether detection of p53 alteration may serve as an indicator of high-risk patients for whom more aggressive adjuvant chemotherapy may be considered needs to be explored in the future.

Secretory expression of a single-chain insulin precursor in yeast and its conversion into human insulin

A synthetic single-chain porcine insulin precursor (PIP) gene and an alpha-mating factor leader sequence (alpha MFL) gene obtained by the PCR method are inserted between the promoter and 3'-terminating sequence of the alcohol dehydrogenase gene ADH1 in plasmid pVT102-U to form plasmid pVT102-U/alpha MFL-PIP. The single-chain insulin precursor is expressed and secreted to the culture medium by Saccharomyces cerevisiae transformed by pVT102-U/alpha MFL-PIP. The precursor is purified and converted into human insulin by tryptic transpeptidation. The purified human insulin is fully active and can be crystallized. The overall yield of human insulin is 25 mg per liter of culture medium.

[Experimental study on in vivo hematopoietic regulation of IL-6 gene-transfected tumor vaccine]

In the present study, we investigated the effects on hematopoiesis of inactivated vaccines prepared from mouse erythroid leukemia cells (FBL-3) transfected with IL-6 gene. After treatment with IL-6 gene-transfected FBL-3 cells, the platelet count in mice started to increase at day 4, reached its maximum at day 10 and lasted for 25 days. The neutrophil count also increased significantly, but WBC count remained unchanged. The CFU-GM and CFU-MK were elevated to some extent in bone marrow and spleen. These results indicated that in addition to augmentation of antitumor immunity, IL-6 gene-transfected tumor vaccine could promote hematopoietic functions in bone marrow and spleen, and elevate platelet and neutrophil counts in peripheral blood. This approach to gene therapy may be applicable in leukemia treatment, especially for thrombocytopenia related to leukemia or chemotherapy.

[Acceleration of hematopoietic reconstitution in mice transplanted with syngeneic bone marrow cells by IL-6 gene therapy]

In the present study, the potential of fibroblast-mediated IL-6 gene therapy for accelerating hematopoietic reconstitution after syngeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) in BALB/c mice subjected to total body irradiation at a dose of 7 Gy was investigated. We observed that not only recovery of platelets, WBCs, CFU-GM or CFU-MK in bone marrow in mice treated with IL-6 gene therapy in combination with transplantation of 10(7) syngeneic bone marrow cells was faster than that in mice treated with IL-6 gene therapy in combination with transplantation of 10(6) or 10(5) syngeneic bone marrow cells, but also the number of CFU-S or survival rate in mice treated with IL-6 gene therapy in combination with transplantation of 10(7) syngeneic bone marrow cells was significantly higher. Nevertheless, the number of platelets, WBCs, CFU-GM or CFU-MK in bone marrow, CFU-S and survival rate in mice treated with IL-6 gene therapy in combination with transplantation of syngeneic bone marrow cells were elevated more significantly than that in mice transplanted with syngeneic bone marrow cells alone. These data demonstrated that IL-6 gene therapy could markedly augment hematopoietic reconstitution after syngeneic bone marrow transplantation and the more bone marrow cells transplanted, the better was the effect.

[Effects of smoking on lung function in populations of Beijing and Guangzhou]

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the relationship between cigarette smoking and lung function in populations of Beijing and Guangzhou.

METHODS

Complete lung function and smoking habit data were recruited from 7983 men and women aged 35-59 in or around Beijing and Guangzhou. Comparisons were made between smokers and never smokers.

RESULTS

The mean values of FEV1/H2, FEF/H2 and FEV1/FVC are all lower in smokers than in never smokers for male smokers, the observed mean value of FEV1/H2 for each age group in smaller than the respective predicted value, and its descending trend with aging is more obvious than the predicted value when re-examination after 2-4 years; furthermore, smokers had higher prevalences of respiratory symptom and COPD.

CONCLUSION

Cigarette smoking is harmful to lung function.

[Experimental study on in vivo hematopoietic regulation of interleukin-6 gene therapy]

Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pleiotropic cytokine, is involved in extensive immune regulation and hematopoietic regulation. We observed the effect of fibroblast mediated human IL-6 gene therapy on hematopoiesis. The platelet counts started to increase at day 4 after implantation of IL-6 highly secreting fibroblast cells and peaked at day 10 and lasted at high level for 22 days. The neutrophil counts were elevated after their implantation, but WBC did not show any remarkable increase. The CFU-GM and CFU-MK in bone marrow and spleen were also increased significantly. The results demonstrated that fibroblasts mediated human IL-6 gene therapy can significantly augment in vivo hematopoietic functions in bone marrow and spleen and elevate the number of nuetrophils and platelets. This study provides a new approach to treat thrombopenia and chemotherapy or radiotherapy-induced hematopoietic suppression.

Antagonists of bombesin/gastrin-releasing Peptide inhibit growth of jar human choriocarcinoma cells and production of cyclic-amp in-vitro

The effects of bombesin/GRP antagonists RC-3095 and RC-3940-II on the in vitro proliferation of JAR human choriocarcinoma cells were evaluated. Antagonists RC-3095 and RC-3940-II effectively inhibited growth of cultured JAR cells, inducing a dose- and time-dependent decrease in the number of treated cells. RC-3940-II was more potent than RC-3095 in inhibiting the growth of JAR cells. Addition of RC-3940-II to JAR cell cultures significantly inhibited the cell proliferation at concentrations as low as 1 nM, while 10 nM RC-3095 was required for a similar effect. Receptor binding studies demonstrated the presence of a single class of binding sites for bombesin on JAR cells. RC-3940-II displaced [I-125]Tyr(4)-bombesin bound to the receptors. When JAR cells were cultured in the presence of 10 nM RC-3095 or RC-3940-II for 72 h, cAMP levels in the incubation medium were decreased by 70-80%, compared to the controls. These results suggest that bombesin/GRP antagonists RC-3095 and RC-3940-II inhibit the proliferation of JAR human chorionic adenocarcinoma cells in vitro and that these effects may involve intracellular cAMP pathway.

[Primary non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma of bone in 5 patients]

The authors report here 5 cases of primary non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma of bone. All bones of the body can be involved, but the commonly inflicted ones are pelvis and femur. This kind of lymphoma possesses no special clinical features and X-ray manifestation, so it is very difficult to be diagnosed and easily misdiagnosed. The diagnosis can be made with the following 5 items: (1) local significance; (2) X-ray manifestation; (3) bone origination; (4) the no proof of originating from other tissues; and (5) pathological examination. This kind of lymphoma is mainly treated with radiotherapy, and adjuvant surgical treatment and chemotherapy are sometimes given.

Photokilling of T-24 human bladder cancer cells with titanium dioxide

A photoexcited titanium dioxide surface has a strong ability to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen. We have studied this effect in order to use it to kill cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. A distinct cell killing effect was observed on cultured T-24 human bladder cancer cells treated with titanium dioxide particles and 300-400 nm UV light irradiation. Titanium dioxide plus UV light also dramatically suppressed the tumour growth of T-24 cells that were implanted in nude mice. Cells cultured on the titanium dioxide electrode were also killed under UV irradiation when the electrode was anodically polarised, suggesting that photogenerated holes are involved in the cell killing. The cell killing effect caused by titanium dioxide particles plus UV light irradiation was significantly hampered in the presence of L-cysteine and catalase, scavengers of hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide respectively. Transmission electron microscopic observations showed the titanium dioxide particles to be distributed on the cell surface and inside the cells. These results suggest that titanium dioxide particles under UV light irradiation produced photogenerated holes on the surface yielding hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide inside or outside the cells and the cells were then killed by the action of these highly oxidising molecules. The possible application of photoexcited titanium dioxide particles to cancer treatment as a new anti-cancer modality is discussed.

Clinical assessment of biplanar transesophageal echocardiography--a report of 125 cases

One hundred and twenty-five patients with cardiovascular disease were examined by biplanar transesophageal echocardiography (BTEE), including 67 with rheumatic heart disease (7 monitored during operation), 22 with aortic diseases, 20 with congenital heart diseases, and 16 with other kinds of heart disease. The results showed that BTEE was not influenced by corpulent and pulmonary emphysema and was better than transthoracic echocardiography at imaging the interatrial septum, left atrium and left atrial appendage, thoracic aorta, and mitral artificial valve and at intraoperative monitoring. BTEE was also better than single-plane transesophageal echocardiography, because BTEE could be used to observe the heart and thoracic aorta in transverse and longitudinal planes, thus enlarging the transmission "window" as well as allowing the entire lesion to be imaged. This study suggests that BTEE will have good prospects in clinical application.

[Isolation, purification and the characteristics of 70 KD pronucleation glycoprotein in the bile]

In recent years, the great achievement in the etiology of cholelithiasis is the discovery of pro- and anti-nucleating factors in human bile. Using Con-A affinity chromatography combined with Sephadex G-200 molecular sieve technique, we have isolated and purified a strong pronucleating glycoprotein in gallbladder bile. Its molecular weight is 70KD, the quantity ratio of neutral hexose to protein in this glycoprotein is 15.88%. One molecule has about 640 amino acid residues. Its N-terminal amino acid sequence is N-Ser-His-Gly-Met-Arg-Gln-Tyr-Tyr-Met-Lys. The pathogenic and biological significance of this glycoprotein in the pathogenesis of gallstone were discussed.

Induction of cytotoxicity by photoexcited TiO2 particles

Photoexcited TiO2 particles can drive various chemical reactions due to their strong oxidizing and reducing ability. To investigate the possible use of this effect for cancer treatment, the antitumor activity of photoexcited TiO2 particles was studied in vitro and in vivo. HeLa cells cultured in vitro were completely killed in the presence of TiO2 (50 micrograms/ml) with 10-min UV irradiation by a 500-W-Hg lamp. In contrast, very little cell death was observed from TiO2 treatment without UV irradiation. Photoexcited TiO2 particles also significantly suppressed the growth of HeLa cells implanted in nude mice, compared with those receiving TiO2 alone or UV irradiation alone. The cell death caused by photoexcited TiO2 particles was significantly protected in the presence of L-tryptophan and catalase. These molecules are quenchers of hydroxyl radicals and scavengers of hydrogen peroxide, respectively, suggesting that the cells were killed by the OH. and H2O2 produced from photoexcited TiO2 particles.

Effects of genetic factors and dietary electrolytes on blood pressure of rural secondary school students in Hanzhong

In this study, 24-h urine specimens were collected on 3 consecutive days from 181 adolescents (94 boys and 87 girls), aged 12-16 years, in a rural district--Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province, and sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium levels were determined. Dietary intake of the four electrolytes and blood pressure were measured in children and their parents on the same consecutive days. The results were as follows: urinary output of calcium and magnesium might not be an appropriate index to reflect intake; after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, heart rate, and parental blood pressure, the ratio of dietary calcium to total calories was negatively related to diastolic blood pressure in the whole group, and the ratio of urinary calcium to creatinine was positively related to systolic blood pressure in girls; not only blood pressure but also its relation to electrolytes are affected by parental blood pressure after adjusting for age, sex, BMI and heart rate.