[The application of neuroimaging reconstruction technique in evaluating the relationship between skeletal musculature tumors and nerves nearby]

Objective: To analyze the relationship between tumors of the musculoskeletal system and adjacent nerves by reconstructing images of peripheral nerves, and explore its value in surgical treatment. Methods: From May 2016 to April 2019, a total of 27 patients were collected in Department of Imaging,Shougang Hospital, who were with skeletal muscle system tumors, including 15 primary soft tissue tumors, 9 primary bone tumors, 3 metastatic tumors, all of them were closely related to nerves. There were 17 males and 10 females, aged 13-67 years, with an average age of 34 years. Before the operation, CT volume scanning was performed, and curved planar reconstruction (CPR) was used to reconstruct the peripheral nerves. All patients were operated within 2 weeks after the examination. According to the image characteristics before the operation, the nerve invasion was judged. The sensitivity, characteristic, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the tumor invasion (compression) nerve were calculated according to the intraoperative findings as the gold standard. Result: Of the 27 cases, 25 cases (25/27, 92.6%) could show the relationship between the tumors and the adjacent nerves at the same level, and 22 cases (22/25, 88.0%) had the same preoperative image judgments as the intraoperative findings. In the reconstructed images, the peripheral nerve was a continuous strip-like structure on the same level with the tumor. The invaded nerve became thicker and the edge was blurred. Enhanced scan showed enhancement. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of neuroimaging reconstruction were 100.0%, 89.5%, 75.0% and 100.0% respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the nerve compression were 92.3%, 100.0%, 100.0% and 80.0% respectively. Conclusions: Neurological reconstructed images can help clinicians evaluate the relationship between lesions and adjacent nerves quickly and intuitively. They can guide the selection of surgical methods, reduce the risk of intraoperative nerve injury, and have high sensitivity and specificity for nerves invasion.

Type 2 diabetes prevalence and incidence among adults in Taiwan during 1999-2004: a national health insurance data set study

AIM

To evaluate annual prevalence and incidence of Type 2 diabetes and to examine possible trends among adults in Taiwan.

METHODS

A retrospective nationwide longitudinal study using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database collected during 1999-2004. Adult patients aged > or = 20 years old with prevalent and incident Type 2 diabetes were identified using ICD-9-CM diagnostic codes. Age-specific and age-direct-standardized annual incidence and prevalence were calculated to describe their trends in different gender and age group and compared using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

During the study years, the age-standardized prevalence of Type 2 diabetes increased from 4.7 to 6.5% for men and from 5.3 to 6.6% for women. The increasing trends in prevalence were significant and higher among people aged < 40 and > or = 80 years. The age-standardized incidence rates of Type 2 diabetes per 1000 person-years were approximately 7.6 and remain stable for men, but decreasing from 7.7 to 6.9 for women. However, the incidence increased significantly in younger adults aged < 40 years whose relative incidence (RI with 95% confidence interval) was 1.31 (1.20-1.42) for men and 1.04 (1.01-1.08) for women. The incidence trends for people aged > or = 40 years were decreased for men and women. The differences in incidence trends between age groups and between genders were all statistically significant (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated a substantial increasing trend in Type 2 diabetes prevalence during 1999-2004 among adults in Taiwan. Despite the incidence decreased in older people, young men aged 20-40 years were most susceptible to higher incidence of Type 2 diabetes.

An integrated inundation model for highly developed urban areas

A numerical model is developed in this study with various components for simulating the complex flow phenomena in urban drainage basins. The model integrates the HEC-1 model, a 1-D dynamic channel-flow model, a 2-D non-inertia overland-flow model and the SWMM model to reflect the hydraulic processes in areas with different characteristics. The inundation of underground infrastructure during flood is also considered in the model. The typhoon Nari event in 2001, which resulted in severe flood in downtown Taipei, is simulated by the model. The result is compared with the survey records of flooded areas, which reveals the storage effect of underground infrastrucures is significant to the simulation results of highly developed urban areas.

Cloning and sequencing of complete cDNA of Japanese encephalitis virus YL strain in Taiwan

We determined the complete nucleotide sequence of the YL strain of Japanese encephalitis virus and its amino acid sequence was deduced. Our results displayed that the genome of YL strain contained a single open reading frame of 10,296 nucleotides (nts) which was flanked by untranslated region (UTR) containing 95 bases at the 5'-end and 586 bases at the 3'-end, respectively. Comparison of sequences showed that the overall amino acid sequence and 3' UTR of YL were similar to those of the virulent strain JaGAr0l. However, some significant amino acid differences of viral envelope (E) protein were observed between YL and JaGAr01; the amino acid sequence of E protein in YL strain possessed RGG(387-389) tripeptide instead of RGD(387-389) in JaGAr01 and in other strains; and another amino acid is K(138) in YL, not E(138) found in others. These differences suggested that the YL strain impairs in viral attachment to the cell surface and loses neuroinvasiveness, and therefore this strain was used as a live attenuated vaccine.

Cloning and sequencing of full-length cDNA of classical swine fever virus LPC strain

The cDNAs of classical swine fever virus (LPC vaccine strain) were cloned by transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and their nucleotide sequences were determined. In this work, we obtained the sequence information of the 786 bases of the 5'-terminal region, 6049 bases of the middle region, and 1648 bases of the 3'-terminal region. Taking our previous results and present data together, the entire genomic sequence of LPC strain was completed (12344 nucleotides in length). The genome of LPC has a large open reading frame that can encode a polypetide of 3897 amino acids, and are flanked by untranslated regions (UTR), 373 bases at the 5'-end and 278 bases at the 3'-end. Phylogenetic analysis based on genomic sequences of several viruses suggested that the LPC strain is closer to Chinese, Riems, HCLV, Alfort/187, Brescia, and Alfort strains in order. After further analysis, we found that an insertion of 13 nucleotides, TTT(C/T)CTTTTTTTT, in the 3'-UTR of LPC, Chinese, and HCLV strains. Immediately downstream to the 13 nucleotides, a unique sequence of LPC consisting of 28 thymidine was observed.

Rosiglitazone (BRL 49653) enhances insulin secretory response via phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway

To elucidate the direct effect of rosiglitazone (RSG), a new thiazolidinedione antihyperglycemic agent, on pancreatic insulin secretion, an in situ investigation by rat pancreatic perfusion was performed. At a basal glucose concentration of 6 mmol/l, RSG (0.045-4.5 micromol/l) stimulated insulin release in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, 4.5 micromol/l RSG potentiated the glucose (10 mmol/l)-induced insulin secretion. Both the first and second phases of glucose-induced insulin secretion were significantly enhanced by RSG, by 80.7 and 52.4%, respectively. The effects of RSG on insulin secretion were inhibited by a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, LY294002. In contrast, the glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was not affected by LY294002. The potentiation effect of RSG on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, in both the first and second phases, was significantly blocked by LY294002. These results suggest that RSG has a direct potentiation effect on insulin secretion in the presence of 10 mmol/l glucose, mediated through PI3K activity. The inability of LY294002 to inhibit glucose-induced insulin secretion suggests that different pathways are responsible for glucose and RSG signaling.

Hemophilic arthropathy: considerations in management

The authors evaluate nonsurgical and surgical approaches to treating patients with hemophilic arthropathy and review the functional and economic limitations imposed on treating these patients. Indications for surgery are discussed and a case study that incorporates both conservative and surgical management options is presented. While the advent of factor replacement therapy has dramatically changed the course of treatment and prognosis for patients with hemophilia, the authors argue that the economic burden of treating these patients is still very high. The authors recommend that proper conservative and surgical management options for patients with hemophilia should be based upon a thorough understanding of the disease process.

Thyroidectomy or radioiodine? The value of ultrasonography and cytology in the assessment of nodular lesions in Graves' hyperthyroidism

Although diffuse toxic goiter is a classical feature of Graves' disease (GD) nodular goiters are occasionally found in some patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ultrasonographic and corresponding cytological manifestations in GD patients with nodular lesions to decide on a therapeutic strategy. Twenty-seven consecutive GD patients with nodular goiter were included in this study (21 women and six men, mean age 41.2 years, range 22-77 years). All underwent thyroid ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration cytology. Of the 27 patients eight underwent surgical intervention because papillary thyroid carcinoma or follicular neoplasm was diagnosed by cytology; five of these were shown to have papillary thyroid carcinomas. Ultrasonography revealed the malignant nodules to be hypoechogenic, heterogeneous, and with ill-defined margins in four of these five thyroid cancers, whereas the remaining sonogram showed a cystic change and cauliflower-like tumor formation with microcalcification. The volume and maximal diameter of cancerous nodules were significantly larger than those of benign nodules. In conclusion our results reveal that ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration cytology are reliable and quick methods for diagnosing nodular goiters in GD patients. If thyroid neoplasms are found ablative therapy with thyroidectomy is indicated instead of radioactive iodine.

Growth hormone gene polymorphisms and growth performance traits in Duroc, Landrace and Tao-Yuan pigs

This study investigated the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of the porcine growth hormone (pGH) gene in Duroc, Landrace, and Tao-Yuan pigs and its effects on growth performance and levels of plasma growth hormone in peripheral circulation. Genomic DNA extracted from 81 Tao-Yuan, 60 Landrace and 48 Duroc pigs were subjected to Southern blot hybridization with a pGH cDNA probe. Polymorphism was detected with the restriction enzymes TaqI and DraI. A comparison of these three breeds showed significant differences in allelic frequencies. Blood samples for radioimmunoassay (RIA) of GH were collected biweekly during the experimental period from pigs 12 to 40 weeks of age. Tao-Yuan pigs showed a mean plasma GH level (2.51 +/- 1.23 ng/mL) that was much lower than that of the Landrace (3.80 +/- 1.52 ng/mL) and Duroc (4.20 +/- 1.03 ng/mL) pigs (P < 0.05). Moreover, the Tao-Yuan pigs also showed poorer growth performance than the Landrace and the Duroc pigs both in the daily weight gain (0.37 +/- 0.06 vs. 0.67 +/- 0.05 and 0.70 +/- 0.05 kg/day, P < 0.01) and feed efficiency (3.12 +/- 0.28 vs. 2.60 +/- 0.14 and 2.52 +/- 0.12, P < 0.05). These results suggest that the growth performance trait in these pigs is highly correlated with their growth hormone genotype.

From mosquito to man: identification of a novel protein kinase, HsHPK, which is highly expressed in human hepatoma tissues

Protein kinases play an important role in the signaling pathway of growth factors in most of the higher organisms. During the study of protein kinase profiles of mosquitoes using RT-PCR and degenerate primers for consensus catalytic domain motifs to amplify protein kinase genes, we have noticed that a novel mosquito kinase, AaPK-38, shares a stretch of amino acids identical to the corresponding domain in Tousled gene of Arabidopsis thaliana that is required for leaf and flower development. A 2.1-kb cDNA encoding human HsHPK gene, which is a homolog of AaPK-38, was isolated from human testis cDNA library. This cDNA contains an open reading frame of 563 amino acids, with a complete kinase domain in its carboxyl terminus. The expressed Flag-tagged HsHPK was shown to have kinase activity based on in vitro autophosphorylation. Northern blot analysis revealed that human HsHPK mRNA is most abundant in testes, much less in heart and skeletal muscle and almost undetectable in liver and lung. Finally, we found that the expression of HsHPK in 4 out of 6 human hepatoma tissues is much higher than that in the adjacent normal counterpart. This result suggests HsHPK may play a role in the development of human hepatoma.

Growth enhancement of fowls by dietary administration of recombinant yeast cultures containing enriched growth hormone

In present study the methylotrophic yeast, Pichia pastoris, was used to express a recombinant growth hormone (rGH) gene of swine. A synthetic secretion cassette was constructed using the promoter of the alcohol oxidase1 gene (AOX1), and a alpha-factor signal peptide. After electroporatic transformation and zeocin selection, several clones exhibited high levels of rGH protein expression constituting more than 20% of total yeast protein. Over 95% of rGH was shown to be export into the culture supernatant. Yeast transformant containing the highest recombinant growth hormone level (rGH yeast) and native GS115 Pichia pastoris (non-rGH yeast, as a control) were separately cultured, harvested and adsorbed by wheat bran. Yeast cultures of four dosages (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4%) were mixed respectively with chick basal diet and fed to simulated country chickens for 9 weeks. The results showed that, when compared to control chicks, the percentage of body weight gain was improved significantly (P<0.05) in chicks fed with diets containing 0.1 or 0.2% rGH-rich yeast culture at brooding stage, and in chicks fed with 0.4% rGH-rich yeast culture at growing stage. The average weight gain in rGH yeast treated groups for the full-term (0 to 63d) and short term (43 to 63d) of growth were 10.6 and 9.4%, respectively, better than the non-rGH yeast control group. These experimental data suggest that the use of rGH-containing yeast as a supplement in fed provided an alternative approach for growth improvement in simulated country chickens.

Genomic structure, expression, and chromosomal localization of the human glycine N-methyltransferase gene

The glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT) gene encodes a protein that not only acts as an enzyme to regulate the ratio of S-adenosylmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine, but also participates in the detoxification pathway in liver cells. Previously, we reported that the expression level of GNMT was diminished in human hepatocellular carcinoma. In this study, the human GNMT gene was cloned and characterized. It contains six exons and spans about 10 kb. Instead of a TATA box, it has a transcriptional initiator located 801 bp upstream from the translation start codon. The gene was localized to chromosome 6p12 using fluorescence in situ hybridization. Northern blot analysis of 16 tissues from different human organs showed that GNMT was expressed only in liver, pancreas, and prostate.

Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms influence susceptibility to type 1 diabetes mellitus in the Taiwanese population

OBJECTIVE

Vitamin D and its receptor have been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. We have therefore studied the influence of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms on susceptibility to type 1 diabetes, and rates of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65) autoantibody and islet cell autoantibody (ICA512) positivity.

SUBJECTS

AND MEASUREMENTS One hundred and fifty-seven type 1 diabetic patients and 248 unrelated normal controls were recruited for this study. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leucocytes. All type 1 diabetic patients and controls were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), for three restriction sites in the VDR gene, BsmI, ApaI and TaqI. The chi2 test was used to compare the frequency of the VDR gene polymorphisms in patients and normal controls. The association of VDR gene polymorphisms in type 1 diabetes with the presence of GAD65 and ICA512 autoantibodies were also examined using the chi2 test.

RESULTS

The allele frequency of the BsmI and ApaI polymorphisms, but not TaqI polymorphism, differed between patients and controls (BsmI P = 0.015; ApaI P = 0.018; TaqI P = 0.266). However, after correction for the three different polymorphisms tested, only the BsmI was significant (pc = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms were associated with type 1 diabetes in a Taiwanese population. However, functional studies are needed to establish the role of the vitamin D receptor in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Serum interleukin-10 but not interleukin-6 is related to clinical outcome in patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical significance of preoperative serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

IL-10 is an immunosuppressive factor and IL-6 is a multifunctional cytokine that plays a role in host defense mechanisms. Both have been reported to be related to the disease prognosis in some human solid tumors. Their role in human HCC has not been investigated.

METHODS

Preoperative serum samples of 67 patients with HCC who underwent potentially curative resection and 27 normal healthy donors were assayed. Levels of IL-10 and IL-6 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The clinical significance of serum IL-10 and IL-6 was evaluated and compared with conventional clinicopathologic factors.

RESULTS

Levels of IL-10 and IL-6 were significantly higher in patients with HCC than in healthy subjects. There was no correlation between IL-10 and IL-6 levels. Tumor resection resulted in a decrease in IL-10 and IL-6 levels. On univariate analysis, patients with high IL-10 levels had a worse disease-free survival, but IL-6 levels had no correlation with the disease-free survival. Multivariate analysis identified IL-10 levels as a predictor of postresectional outcome, in addition to the well-established clinical risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with HCC, the preoperative serum IL-10 level is related to the clinical outcome. IL-10 may play an important role in the progression of HCC.

Identification of a DNA-binding domain and an active-site residue of pseudorabies virus DNase

The pseudorabies virus (PRV) DNase gene has an open reading frame of 1476 nt, capable of coding a 492-residue protein. A previous study showed that PRV DNase is an alkaline exonuclease and endonuclease, exhibiting an Escherichia coli RecBCD-like catalytic function. To analyse its catalytic mechanism further, we constructed a set of clones truncated at the N-terminus or C-terminus of PRV DNase. The deleted mutants were expressed in E. coli with the use of pET expression vectors, then purified to homogeneity. Our results indicate that (1) the region spanning residues 274-492 exhibits a DNA-binding ability 7-fold that of the intact DNase; (2) the N-terminal 62 residues and the C-terminal 39 residues have important roles in 3'-exonuclease activity, and (3) residues 63-453 are responsible for 5'- and 3'-exonuclease activities. Further chemical modification of PRV DNase revealed that the inactivation of DNase by diethyl pyrocarbonate, which was reversible on treatment with hydroxylamine, seemed to be attributable solely to the modification of histidyl residues. Because the herpesviral DNases contained only one well-conserved histidine residue, site-directed mutagenesis was performed to replace His(371) with Ala. The mutant lost most of its nuclease activity; however, it still exhibited a wild-type level of DNA-binding ability. In summary, these results indicate that PRV DNase contains an independent DNA-binding domain and that His(371) is the active-site residue that has an essential role in PRV DNase activity.

De novo RET proto-oncogene mutation in a patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B

We report a case of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B (MEN 2B) with de novo RET proto-oncogene mutation. The patient, a 23-year-old Taiwanese woman, was admitted for treatment of recurrent medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) 7 years after a total thyroidectomy. Mucosal neuromas and marfanoid appearance were also noted. Because MEN 2B was suspected, the patient and her family members underwent genetic analysis. A heterozygous germline mutation at codon 918 (ATG-->ACG) of the proto-oncogene RET was detected in the patient. This mutation was considered de novo, as it was not detected in either of her parents or her siblings. The patient underwent surgery for removal of the recurrent tumor. Although no pheochromocytoma was noted, regular follow-up is necessary because of persistent hypercalcitoninemia.

Expression of IsK protein mRNA in cultured rat strial marginal cells

A cell culture system of marginal cells (MC) of the rat stria vascularis was established by the explant method. When grown on plastic dishes, cultured MC showed a polygonal "cobblestone-like" appearance. Dome formation, composed of several hundreds to thousands of cells, occurring after confluence suggested that vectorial transport of ion(s) with accompanying fluid developed in the cultured MC. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated junctional complexes formed of tight junctions and desmosomes at the upper lateral membranes. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product, amplified with primers made from the cDNA reverse transcribed from cultured MC, yielded a distinct band compatible with the expected size of the PCR products amplified from cDNA of positive control groups containing IsK protein, indicating that cultured MC expressed the IsK protein mRNA. The results show that cultured MC can form large domes and express the most characteristic IsK protein, indicating that they maintain their vectorial electrolyte transport function and, possibly, the ability to secrete K+ in this condition.

Combination of color Doppler ultrasonography and ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology for localization of parathyroid lesions

We examined the usefulness of color Doppler ultrasonography combined with ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) for preoperative localization of parathyroid lesions in patients with hyperparathyroidism. Twenty-eight patients (19 men, 9 women; mean age, 56 years) with clinical and laboratory evidence of hyperparathyroidism underwent preoperative color Doppler ultrasonography and ultrasound-guided FNAC prior to surgery. On ultrasonography, the parathyroid lesions were anechoic or hypoechoic, located behind or at the margin of the thyroid gland, and mimicked blood vessels in some cases. On color Doppler ultrasound, parathyroid lesions showed little or no vascularity. They were easily differentiated from blood vessels, thus improving the safety of ultrasound-guided FNAC. Thirty-four (76%) of 45 surgically confirmed parathyroid lesions were detected with ultrasonography in 21 (75%) of the patients. There was no significant difference in the detection rates of lesions in the right upper, right lower, left upper, and left lower parathyroid glands. Eight (29%) patients had coexisting thyroid lesions. FNAC of the ultrasound-detected abnormalities provided preoperative confirmation that they were parathyroid lesions. In conclusion, our findings show that color Doppler ultrasonogrphy in combination with ultrasound-guided FNAC is useful for preoperative localization of parathyroid lesions.

Phosphorylation of transcription factor cyclic-AMP response element binding protein mediates c-fos induction elicited by sustained hypertension in rat nucleus tractus solitarii

We investigated the role of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein signaling in the induction of the immediate-early gene c-fos by baroreceptor activation in neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarii of anesthetized rats. Activation of the arterial baroreceptors with sustained hypertension significantly increased the number of neurons in the caudal nucleus tractus solitarii that were immunoreactive to an antiserum that detects Ser133-phosphorylated cyclic-AMP response element binding protein. This implied increase in phosphorylation of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein was subsequently followed by an elevation in the expression of Fos protein in neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarii. Microinjection bilaterally into the nucleus tractus solitarii of a phosphorothioated antisense oligonucleotide directed against the initiation site of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein messenger RNA discernibly reduced the manifested immunoreactivity of phosphorylated cyclic-AMP response element binding protein in response to baroreceptor activation. This was accompanied by a decline in the transcription of c-fos messenger RNA and the expression of Fos protein, along with an appreciable potentiation of the baroreceptor reflex response. Control injections of the sense oligonucleotide or artificial cerebrospinal fluid were ineffective. These findings suggest that phosphorylation of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein is crucial to Fos expression in the nucleus tractus solitarii elicited by sustained hypertension. As such, phosphorylation of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein may be an important early nuclear event that mediates the long-term inhibitory modulation of the baroreceptor reflex response by Fos protein at the nucleus tractus solitarii.

Pseudorabies virus early protein 0 trans-activates the TATA-associated promoter by stimulating the transcription initiation

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) early protein 0 (EP0) is a transactivator containing a RING finger domain. To assess the transactivation mechanism of PRV EP0, we performed the in vitro transcription by combining HeLa nuclear extract, purified recombinant EP0 and simple promoter constructs, and evaluated the results by primer extension. The data showed that EP0 could significantly activate the TATA-containing synthetic promoters. Moreover, EP0 activated transcription by stabilizing the formation of transcription initiation complex instead of enhancing the elongation rate. To further understand the role of EP0 on assembling the transcription initiation complex, we performed the pull-down assay using affinity precipitation of proteins from HeLa nuclear extracts and bacterially expressed glutathione-S-transferase EP0 RING finger fusion. The data showed that at least six nuclear proteins physically interacted with the EP0 RING finger. Overall, the transactivation of PRV EP0 is accomplished by enhancing the transcription initiation and is associated with at least six nuclear proteins.

Demonstration of thyrotropin receptor mRNA in orbital fat and eye muscle tissues from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy by in situ hybridization

There is a controversy regarding whether there are thyrotropin (TSH) receptors in orbital fat and eye muscle tissues that may play a role in the pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy. To elucidate whether there are TSH receptors in orbital fat and eye muscle tissues in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy, we applied the method of in situ hybridization in orbital fat and eye muscle tissues obtained during the operation for patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy, to directly detect TSH receptor mRNA. To identify whether the cells with positive TSH receptor mRNA are fibroblasts, we also did vimentin immunoreactivity study. To further prove the transcript does have a full length of TSH receptor, the samples of total RNA preparations, extracted from orbital fat and eye muscle tissues, were used as a template for reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using three primer sets to generate cDNA fragments and cloned for sequencing. The results showed that the expression of TSH receptor mRNA was demonstrated in adipocytes and fibroblasts of orbital fat, and perimysial fibroblasts within eye muscle tissues by in situ hybridization and vimentin immunoreactivity study. Also, by using the RT-PCR, cloning and sequencing, we further proved that the transcript does have a full length of TSH receptor. The present study suggested that there are TSH receptors expressed in orbital fat and eye muscle tissues.

Abnormal transcripts of FHIT gene in Chinese brain tumors

FHIT located at chromosome 3p14.2 was discovered and proposed as a candidate tumor suppressor gene in several cancers. To determine whether the FHIT gene at 3p14.2 is altered in Chinese brain tumors, we examined 13 brain tumors for deletions within FHIT locus. Evaluation of the FHIT gene in the panel of brain tumors led to a comprehensive mutation analysis. The complete sequence of the FHIT gene was determined and deletions between exon 5-8 were found in all 13 cases. In addition, single point mutation of amino acid from two glioblastoma and one atypical meningioma cases and multiple amino acid mutations from one pituitary tumor were observed. Our results support the hypothesis that FHIT gene alteration is involved in tumorigenic development of human neoplasms.

Molecular cloning and nucleotide sequence of 3'-terminal region of classical swine fever virus LPC vaccine strain

A cDNA of the 3'-terminus of classical swine fever virus (LPC vaccine strain) was cloned and sequenced. The 3431 nucleotides and deduced amino acid sequences were compared with those of other pestiviruses, and the similarity of nucleotide sequences and deduced amino acid sequences were found to be 84-95% and 95-98%, respectively. Similar to other isolates of classical swine fever virus, the sequenced region included the non-structural gene p58 (NS5A) and part of p76 (NS5B) gene. The p76 gene of LPC vaccine strain also contained a highly conserved motif G-D-D (Gly-Asp-Asp) that is present in the RNA replicase of positive-stranded RNA viruses. With the sequence data currently available, we carried out a phylogenetic analysis and obtained a genealogical relationship among members of the classical swine fever virus.

Thyrotropin-secreting pituitary adenoma

Thyrotropin (TSH)-secreting pituitary adenoma (TSPA) is a rare cause of hyperthyroidism and detailed reports of this entity in Taiwan are uncommon. We report a patient with TSPA with symptoms of hyperthyroidism and describe the presentation, endocrine and histologic findings, and treatment. The patient, a 42-year-old man, presented with a 2-year history of weight loss, palpitation, anxiety, and bad temper. He had increased basal serum thyroxine (T4, 18.3 micrograms/dL) and triiodothyronine (T3, 250 ng/dL) concentrations. The TSH concentration was normal (4.6 microIU/mL) and showed impaired response to stimulation by TSH-releasing hormone. Tests for antithyroid antibodies were negative. Thyroid scintigraphy showed mild thyroid enlargement. The thyroid uptake of radioactive iodine (131I) was high at 2 hours (34%) and 24 hours (63%) after 131I administration. Other serum hormone concentrations were within normal limits. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a microadenoma in the pituitary region. Octreotide and bromocriptine tests showed 78.4% and 58.3% inhibition of TSH, respectively. The patient underwent trans-sphenoidal pituitary tumor excision, and the symptoms of hyperthyroidism subsided after surgery. Six months after the operation, there was no evidence of recurrence of the tumor or symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Hormonal supplements were also not necessary. In conclusion, TSPA is a rare cause of hyperthyroidism. However, in patients with symptoms of hyperthyroidism and increased basal serum T1 and T3 concentrations, but normal or even elevated serum TSH concentrations, TSPA should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase stimulated by hepatocyte growth factor leads to mitogen-activated protein kinase activation

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase involved in integrin-mediated signal transduction pathway. In this report, we describe that the treatment of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) stimulates a significant increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. This stimulation is independent of cell adhesion or the integrity of the actin cytoskeleton, suggesting potentially different mechanisms by which the HGF receptors and integrins regulate the tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK. Our results also suggest that the activation of Src upon HGF stimulation is likely to be one, if not the only, of the mechanisms responsible for the HGF-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK. Furthermore, we showed that a mutation in the Grb2 binding site Tyr-925 of FAK partially abolishes its increase in HGF-induced phosphorylation. Finally, we demonstrated that HGF stimulates the association of FAK with Grb2 in vitro and in intact cells and provided evidence that FAK might contribute to the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase through Ras in HGF signaling by functioning as an adapter molecule.

Effectiveness of slow-release lanreotide, a long-acting somatostatin analogue, in the treatment of acromegaly

We evaluated the effectiveness of slow-release lanreotide, a long-acting somatostatin analogue, in the treatment of acromegaly. Eleven patients with acromegaly were recruited, six of whom had received long-term treatment with octreotide. Lanreotide 30 mg was administered by intramuscular injection every other week for 24 weeks. The frequency of injection was adjusted as clinically needed after 2 weeks. Clinical effects were evaluated, and symptoms were recorded and scored. Finger circumferences and hand volumes were measured. Serum growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations were determined, and an oral glucose test was done at baseline and after treatment. Symptom scores, circumferences of the fingers, hand volumes, and serum GH and IGF-1 concentrations significantly decreased during treatment. Serum GH concentrations returned to normal in five (46%) of the 11 patients, while serum IGF-1 concentrations returned to normal in three (27%). Glucose intolerance was not significantly improved at the end of treatment. Although the mean serum GH concentration was significantly decreased after treatment, it was still not suppressed by glucose. In conclusion, slow-release lanreotide, given either twice or three times a month, is effective in controlling acromegalic symptoms as well as GH and IGF-1 hypersecretion. The treatment is well tolerated and convenient for patients.

Germline RET proto-oncogene mutations in two Taiwanese families with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A

To elucidate the germline RET proto-oncogene mutations in Taiwanese families with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN 2A), we extracted DNA from peripheral blood leukocytes of 28 members of two families with MEN 2A. Oligonucleotide primers for exons 10 and 11 were used to analyze the nucleotide sequence of codons 609, 611, 618, and 620 of exon 10, and codon 634 of exon 11 of the RET proto-oncogene. Two fragments of genomic DNA were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The amplified PCR products were separated and purified from primers and free nucleotides in agarose gels, and the expected 187-bp and 234-bp bands were cut from the gels and sequenced. Thirteen family members in the two MEN 2A kindreds had mutations in codon 634 of exon 11. In kindred 1 (15 members available for this study), a heterozygous codon 634 mutation in nine members and a homozygous codon 634 mutation in one member led to the substitution of Phe (TTC) for Cys (TGC). Three members of kindred 2 (13 members available for this study) had a heterozygous base pair change in codon 634, which led to the substitution of Arg (CGC) for Cys (TGC). In this study, we found two mutation events occurring in two MEN 2A kindreds and also discovered a homozygous point mutation in one woman that led to heterozygous mutations in all of her children.

Establishment and characterization of a strial marginal cell line maintaining vectorial electrolyte transport

E6/E7 genes of human papilloma virus type 16 were used to immortalize a primary culture of marginal cells (MC) from gerbils. One of the cloned lines was selected which demonstrated preservation of the main characteristics of the MC, both morphologically and physiologically. Electron microscopic examination showed well-developed junctional complexes and apical microvilli which suggested its epithelial origin. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) demonstrated the incorporation of E6/E7 genes with the genome. Reverse transcription PCR revealed the existence of mRNA of the IsK channel, a unique marker of MC among the inner ear cells, in this clone. Flow cytometric analysis of this cell line's DNA content was diploid. Numerous large domes formed after confluence of the cell monolayer. Electrophysiologic studies displayed evidence of apical K+ and Na+ channels which were blocked by Ba2+ (2 mM) and amiloride (10(-5) M), respectively. Existence of basolateral Na,K-ATPase and Na+/Cl-/K+ cotransporter was shown by blockage by ouabain (10(-3) M) and bumetanide (50 microM), individually. Injection of the cell line to nude mice failed to induce growth of tumors. This cell line was serum-, density- and anchorage-dependent when cultured in plastic dishes. In conclusion, this cell line shows characteristics of well-differentiated MC maintaining the major ionic transport processes, and provides us a good model to study the possible mechanisms and regulating factors of endolymph production.

RET protooncogene mutations in patients with apparently sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma

We examined RET protooncogene mutations in sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based sequencing. DNA was extracted from tumor tissue and peripheral blood leukocytes of seven unrelated individuals with apparently sporadic MTC. Oligonucleotide primers were selected to amplify exons 10, 11, 13, 15, and 16 of the RET protooncogene, to examine the sequences of codons 609, 611, 618, and 620 of exon 10, codon 634 of exon 11, codon 768 of exon 13, codon 883 of exon 15, and codon 918 of exon 16. Direct DNA sequencing from PCR products was then performed. The results showed that one patient had a somatic mutation at codon 918 (ATG-->ACG), causing a Met-->Thr substitution. One patient had a de novo germline mutation at codon 634 (TGC-->CGC), causing a Cys-->Arg substitution. Another patient had a germline mutation at codon 634 (TGC-->TTC), causing a Cys-->Phe substitution. In the remaining four cases, no RET mutations were found. Unexpectedly, two offspring of the patient (a female) with a germline mutation at codon 634 (TGC-->TTC) harbored homozygous alleles for the mutation; because the father did not carry this mutation, the other affected allele was suspected to have resulted from a de novo germline mutation of paternal origin. One of these offspring was subsequently diagnosed as having MTC. Our findings suggest that all patients with apparently sporadic MTC should be screened for the RET protooncogene by molecular analysis to detect occult or de novo multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (MEN 2) or familial MTC. This would allow early treatment of affected family members.

Intraocular pressure lowering effects of novel arylpiperazine derivatives

Arylpiperazine derivatives were synthesized and investigated in this study. Two animal models, including an intraocular pressure (IOP) recovery method and an alpha-chymotrypsin-induced glaucoma model, were used to determine the ocular pharmacological effects of the arylpiperazine derivatives. In the IOP recovery method, New Zealand rabbits with normal IOP were instilled with 50 microliters of 0.5% eye drops, then 10% sodium chloride solution was infused through the ear marginal vein. The relative percent of IOPs were calculated, then delta IOPt% was obtained from the difference of IOPt% between the treated and controlled eye. In the alpha-chymotrypsin-induced glaucoma model, the induced glaucoma rabbits were topically instilled with 0.5% arylpiperazines onto the eyes, and then the IOP changes were calculated to evaluate the effect of eye drops. Our results showed that in the IOP recovery method, BG31 and YCT2-2 demonstrated a very significant effect for reducing IOP; delta IOPt% were -27.6 and -25.5 for BG31 and YCT2-2, respectively. Two other compounds, C219 and C220 also lowered IOP, but the effects were less significant. In alpha-chymotrypsin-induced glaucoma, the maximum effect of YCT2-2 on the IOP was found at 5 hrs. The delta IOP and delta delta IOP were -12.5 +/- 1.7 and -5.8 +/- 1.1 mmHg (p < 0.01), respectively. For BG-31 and C220, there existed a trend to increase IOP with time. In the study, we found that YCT2-2 with higher solubility in the acidic condition was correlated to the significant IOP lowering effect.

Identification, expression, and characterization of the pseudorabies virus DNA-binding protein gene and gene product

The pseudorabies virus (PRV) gene encoding a DNA-binding protein (DBP) was first identified in this study. The DBP gene has an open reading frame of 3531 nucleotides, capable of coding a 1177-amino-acid polypeptide of 125 kDa. The deduced DBP exhibits a conserved zinc-binding motif and a conserved DNA-binding region, suggesting the similar DNA-binding mechanism occurs among alphaherpesviral DBP homologs. To further identify the biochemical properties of PRV DBP, this protein was expressed in Escherichia coli by using a pET expression vector and purified to homogeneity. The PRV DBP binds cooperatively and preferentially to single-stranded DNA with no significant base preference, judged by agarose gel electrophoresis and competitive nitrocellulose filter binding assays. Taken together, these results suggest that PRV DBP may play an important role in PRV DNA replication by binding cooperatively and nonspecifically to single-stranded DNA that is formed during the replication origin unwinding and replication fork movement.

Cloning, expression and sequence analysis of the classical swine fever virus nucleocapsid protein

The DNA complementary to the 5'-terminal 1929 nucleotides of classical swine fever virus (CSFV; alias hog cholera virus, HCV) LPC vaccine strain RNA was cloned and sequenced. The sequence encompasses a 5'-noncoding region (NCR) of 264 nucleotides and an open reading frame (ORF) of 1665 nucleotides. The cloned sequence contains genes of four viral proteins, P23, nucleocapsid (core) protein, E0 and part of E1 proteins. Alignment of the 5'-terminal 1929 nucleotides of LPC strain with other strains of CSFV showed well conservation and a homology as high as 84-95% was found between these strains. The cDNA of CSFV-LPC core was cloned into an expression vector, and a fusion protein of 38.5 kDa was obtained which reacted strongly to CSFV antiserum. Purification of the core fusion protein was achieved by a single-step affinity chromatography and the purified product could be recognized by the sera of CSFV-infected swine in ELISA assay. Phylogenetic analysis of the 5'-terminal 1929 nucleotides between pestiviruses revealed that the 5'-end region seems to be suitable for differentiation of different strains of CSFV.

Expression of the glycoprotein E2 of the classical swine fever virus in Escherichia coli

The glycoprotein E2 sequences of classical swine fever virus (strain p97) were cloned, sequenced and expressed in E. coli. Result from SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of expressed proteins revealed the presence of a prominently stained band corresponding to a molecular mass of 61 kDa, which is in agreement with the predicted size from the DNA sequence. The recombinant E2 protein contained an aminoterminal tag of six histidines that could be used for purification by the nickel chelate affinity chromatography. The elution fractions of the expressed protein also contain additional bands of 40 and 35 kDa proteins, indicating proteolytic cleavages might occur. Our Western blotting result also supported that the expression of the recombinant E2 protein of the classical swine fever virus were accomplished.

DNA vaccination induces a long-term antibody response and protective immunity against pseudorabies virus in mice

In order to investigate the mechanism of long-term immunity and the effect of protective immunity induced by DNA vaccination, we constructed the expression plasmid containing a pseudorabies virus (PRV) gD gene encoding an envelope glycoprotein. Intramuscular vaccination of mice with the plasmid DNA induced a strong antibody response which lasted for one year after final vaccination. An IgM to IgG class switch occurred, indicating helper T-lymphocyte activity. We further analyzed the persistence and expression of gD gene by polymerase chain reaction and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that gD gene was present and expressed in the muscle cell up to one year after final booster injection. Furthermore, mice vaccinated with the plasmid DNA were protected against a subsequent lethal challenge with PRV. Therefore, the DNA vaccination does induce a protective immunity and long-term antibody response against PRV, which could be maintained by persistent expression of gD gene in muscle cells.

Up-regulation of beta-actin, cyclophilin and GAPDH in N1S1 rat hepatoma

Beta-actin, cyclophilin and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) are all constantly expressed proteins that regulate cellular structures and endogenous cytoarchitectural functions. In this study, we used an in vivo N1S1 rat hepatoma model to examine changes in the expression levels of these housekeeping genes in normal and tumor liver samples. The beta-actin, cyclophilin and GAPDH genes were all up-regulated in tumor groups as compared to the controls. Our results suggest that up-regulation of beta-actin, cyclophilin and GAPDH genes may be essential for oncogenesis in hepatoma.

Can synthetic bone models approximate the mechanical properties of cadaveric first metatarsal bone?

The authors evaluated the value of plastic foam models for approximating the mechanical properties of cadaveric bone. Three mechanical tests (3-point bending, cantilevered load to failure, screw push-out) were performed to evaluate the performance of fresh (nonpreserved) human metatarsals, plastic solid foam anatomic models, and modified anatomic models. The test results indicate that plastic models may simulate the mechanical properties of natural bone in tests in which only elastic deformation is achieved. However, under circumstances where load is applied until material failure, the mechanical properties vary dramatically. These tests indicate that specific goals should be established with these results in mind, when planning mechanical testing studies with either plastic or cadaveric models.

Recombinant pseudorabies virus DNase exhibits a RecBCD-like catalytic function

The pseudorabies virus (PRV) DNase gene has previously been mapped within the PRV genome. To characterize further the enzymic properties of PRV DNase, this enzyme was expressed in Escherichia coli with the use of a pET expression vector. The protein was purified to homogeneity and assayed for nuclease activity in vitro. Recombinant PRV DNase exhibited an alkaline pH preference and an absolute requirement for Mg2+ ions that could not be replaced by Ca2+ and Na+ ions. Further studies showed that PRV DNase exhibited endonuclease, 5'-exonuclease and 3'-exonuclease activities in both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA. This activity occurred randomly and no significant base preference was demonstrated. The multiple biochemical activities of PRV DNase are similar to the activities of Neurospora crassa endo-exonuclease and E. coli RecBCD, two additional enzymes that are involved in recombination. Taken together, the similarity of action between N. crassa endo-exonuclease, E. coli RecBCD, and PRV DNase suggests that PRV DNase might have a role in the process of recombination that occurs during PRV infection.

The recombinant nucleocapsid protein of classical swine fever virus can act as a transcriptional regulator

The cDNA of the nucleocapsid (core) protein of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) was generated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and cloned into a eukaryotic expression vector. The effect of the recombinant core protein on the transcriptional regulation of cellular as well as viral promoters was studied. Using transient transfection assay, our results demonstrated that the core protein can activate the promoter of human heat shock protein 70 gene, and suppressed the SV40 early promoter. These findings indicate that the core protein appears to function not only as a viral structural protein but also as a regulator of gene expression. The implications of core proteins on the viral maturation are discussed.

Abnormal transcripts of FHIT gene in thyroid cancer

Abnormalities of the FHIT gene were found in many carcinoma cell lines and human tumors as reported which suggest an etiological function in tumorigenesis. To investigate whether the FHIT gene is a target of thyroid tumor specific 3p alterations, we screened the FHIT gene for alteration in thyroid tumors and found that the tumors exhibited aberrant FHIT gene expression. The complete sequence of the FHIT gene in seven cases was determined and deletions between exon 2-9 in different regions were found. Goiter samples as control had normal FHIT transcripts while both normal and aberrant transcripts of FHIT were found not only in the tumor samples but also in the adjacent non-tumorous portion of the thyroid tumor. Our results support the hypothesis that FHIT gene alteration is involved in tumorigenetic development of human neoplasms in thyroid glands.

Stimulation of type I DNA topoisomerase gene expression by pseudorabies virus

Previous results from our laboratory have demonstrated that type I DNA topoisomerase activity is required for the replication and gene expression of pseudorabies virus (PRV). In the present report, we further analyzed the expression of topoisomerase I in PRV-infected cells, and the western blot result showed that the expression of topoisomerase I was increased after virus infection. The increase sustained to late time of infection when the cytopathic effect was obvious and the synthesis of most host proteins was shut off by PRV. From transient expression assay, it was also found that the promoter of cellular topoisomerase I gene could be stimulated by immediate-early protein (IE180) and viral early protein 0 (EP0), and these two regulatory proteins appeared to work synergistically. Collectively, these findings provide evidence that PRV can stimulate the expression of topoisomerase I and that the stimulation is mediated at least by IE180 and EP0 proteins of PRV at the transcriptional level.

The presence of RNA splicing signals in the cDNA construct of the E2 gene of classical swine fever virus affected its expression

E2 is the major neutralizing antigen for classical swine fever virus (CSFV) infection. Previously, we have cloned and sequenced the E2 cDNA of Taiwan strain p97 by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method from CSFV-infected tissue. The presence of RNA splicing donor and acceptor sites were found in the cDNA sequence. In this study, transfection of E2 cDNA into mammalian cells resulted in the production of a spliced RNA. Site-directed mutagenesis of the donor and acceptor sites prevented the RNA splicing event and generated a full length transcript in COS7 cells. Although the spliced E2 transcript has not been reported in natural infection of CSFV, this study suggested that the potential splicing sites affected the E2 gene expression when the plasmid-based E2 gene was introduced into mammalian cells.

Immunolocalization of the pseudorabies virus immediate-early protein IE180 by immunoperoxidase staining

The immediate-early (1E) gene of pseudorabies virus (PRV) expresses immediately upon infection, a phosphorylated protein (immediate-early protein, IE180) that can transactivate viral other genes and plays an essential role in regulating viral gene expression. In order to detect and localize IE180 in infected cells early on, this gene was cloned for overexpression, and the expressed products were applied to generate specific antibodies against IE180 protein. Two recombinant expression plasmids pN and pNB were constructed by cloning the IE gene onto pET 30a(+) expression vector via NcoI and BamHI sites. Plasmid pN contains the 1.8-kb NcoI-NcoI fragment of IE gene coding for the N-terminus of 616 amino acid residues, while pNB contains the 2.8-kb NcoI-Bam HI fragment coding for the rest of the IE180 protein. Both pN and pNB were transformed, respectively, into E. coli cells and produced large amounts of IE protein products during induction with 1 mM IPTG. The expressed IE proteins for pN and pNB were 60 kDa and 100 kDa in size, respectively. These expression products were purified and then used as antigens to immunize mice for preparing specific antibodies against PRV IE180 protein. The specificities of the mice immune sera were confirmed by their abilities to react with IE180 protein present in the PRV infected cells in the Western immunoblotting assay. Furthermore, immunoperoxidase staining of PRV infected cells undertaken with these antisera revealed the subcellular distribution of the IE proteins in the infected cells and also demonstrated their transportation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus during infection.

Identification of a pseudorabies virus UL12 (deoxyribonuclease) gene

We characterized the gene encoding the pseudorabies virus (PrV) homologue of the herpes simplex virus 1 UL12 open reading frame that encodes the alkaline nuclease. The deduced PrV UL12 product was 492 amino acid residues and exhibited three conserved regions among herpesviruses. Northern blot analysis indicated that three transcripts (3.2, 1.6 and 1 kb) were encoded in this region and the UL12 corresponds to the 1.6-kb transcript. Primer extension and UL12-specific cDNA cloning were performed to verify the precise location of the UL12 transcript. These data indicated that the transcription start site of UL12 was located at 47-62 nucleotides upstream of the UL12 translation start site and the polyadenylation cleavage site was located at 15 or 16 nucleotides downstream the typical polyadenylation signal. Furthermore, the 53-kDa UL12 product, which indeed has deoxyribonuclease activity, was evidenced by in vitro expression.

Analysis of pseudorabies virus genes by cDNA sequencing

Cloning and sequencing of cDNA could provide a complementary approach to functional analysis of the pseudorabies virus (PrV) genome. Using colony hybridization, Southern hybridization, and DNA sequencing, four species of PrV-specific cDNA were identified. Among these four species of PrV-specific cDNA, three unidentified genes, UL26, UL29, and UL31, were mapped and a novel gI-11K bicistronic cDNA was confirmed. Thus, analysis of PrV-specific transcripts provided a way for identifying genes and a foundation to further study the roles of these transcripts in PrV infection.

Analysis of upregulated cellular genes in pseudorabies virus infection: use of mRNA differential display

Virus infection usually alters the host cell and shuts off the synthesis of cellular macromolecules. In order to screen the upregulated cellular transcripts during pseudorabies virus (PRV) infection, we employed the mRNA differential display technique. The screen is based on positive selection at the mRNA level for genes expressed in normal cells but increased in corresponding PRV-infected cells. Over 14000 species of mRNA, isolated from mock-infected and PRV-infected Madin-Darby bovine kidney cell at 1 h post infection, were screened, and 40 candidate clones were recovered. Southern blot analysis revealed that 17 out of 40 candidate clones, were enhanced in PRV-infected cells. Partial DNA sequences demonstrated that 17 clones were distinct cellular genes, including those encoding the modulators of signal transduction (saposin, 14-3-3, adenylate kinase, adenylyl cyclase, protein kinase C-alpha), those encoding the components of translation (fau, ribosomal proteins S11, L31, L36), other cellular genes (peptidase, cyclin E, rch1, oligo-C-rich single-stranded nucleic acid binding protein, rap, arginyl-tRNA synthetase), and two unknown genes. Thus, this study identifies successfully the transcriptionally regulated cellular genes which are associated with PRV infection. Furthermore, this study provides support for the use of mRNA differential display as a method to rapidly isolate differentially expressed genes in virus infection.

Stepwise approach to hallux limitus. A surgical perspective

Successful outcomes in hallux limitus surgery are still difficult to reproduce consistently. An attempt is made to improve these results by presenting a systematic approach to surgical reduction of this deformity by isolating several important steps. Emphasis is placed equally on both the soft-tissue and osseous structures. Cartilage grafting and replacement techniques may soon provide more options in joint salvage.

Cloning and sequencing of complete thyrotropin receptor transcripts in pretibial fibroblast culture cells

Pretibial fibroblasts are considered to be targets of autoimmune attack in pretibial myxedema. A possibility of the pathogenesis of pretibial myxedema is that T cells, reacting with thyrotropin (TSH) receptor, will be targeting to the pretibial fibroblasts where, in the presence of antigen (TSH receptor), they will secrete various cytokines and stimulate fibroblasts to secrete glycosaminoglycans. We have demonstrated that TSH and TSH receptor antibody can bind to fibroblasts and the presence of RNA encoding the extracellular domain of the TSH receptor in fibroblasts derived from skin lesions of two patients with pretibial myxedema. The present study was designed to determine whether there are complete TSH receptor transcripts in pretibial fibroblasts obtained from patients with pretibial myxedema. RNA was prepared from pretibial fibroblasts obtained from 11 patients with pretibial myxedema and from four normal subjects, then reverse-transcribed by polymerase chain reaction using three sets of primers (-11/+8 and +754/+773; +353/+373 and +1265/+1285; +1000/+1017 and +2284/+2301). The overlapped 2312 bp cDNA sequence was expected to contain the genetic sequences of the signal peptide (+1/+60), extracellular domain (+61/+1254), transmembrane domain (+1255/+2046), and cytoplasmic domain (+2047/ +2292) of the TSH receptor. The sequences were determined using dideoxy sequencing method. All of the 2312 nucleotide sequences in 15 samples were consistent with the reported TSH receptor sequence of transcripts in thyroid. These data suggest that the complete TSH receptor transcripts are very possible to be present in the fibroblasts derived from pretibial skin.