Whole-genome sequencing analysis in fetal structural anomalies: novel phenotype-genotype discoveries

OBJECTIVES

The identification of structural variants and single-nucleotide variants is essential in finding molecular etiologies of monogenic genetic disorders. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is becoming more widespread in genetic disease diagnosis. However, data on its clinical utility remain limited in prenatal practice. We aimed to expand our understanding of implementing WGS in the genetic diagnosis of fetal structural anomalies.

METHODS

We employed trio WGS with a minimum coverage of 40× on the MGI DNBSEQ-T7 platform in a cohort of 17 fetuses presenting with aberrations detected by ultrasound, but uninformative findings of standard chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and exome sequencing (ES).

RESULTS

Causative genetic variants were identified in two families, with an increased diagnostic yield of 11.8% (2/17). Both were exon-level copy-number variants of small size (3.03 kb and 5.16 kb) and beyond the detection thresholds of CMA and ES. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, we have described the first prenatal instance of the association of FGF8 with holoprosencephaly and facial deformities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis demonstrates the clinical value of WGS in the diagnosis of the underlying etiology of fetuses with structural abnormalities, when routine genetic tests have failed to provide a diagnosis. Additionally, the novel variants and new fetal manifestations have expanded the mutational and phenotypic spectrums of BBS9 and FGF8. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

[Prokaryotic expression of a recombinant protein of adeno-associated virus capsid conserved regions and preparation of its polyclonal antibody]

OBJECTIVE

To express and purify the antigenic peptide of adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid conserved regions in prokaryotic cells and prepare its rabbit polyclonal antibody.

METHODS

The DNA sequence encoding the conserved regions of AAV capsid protein was synthesized and cloned into the vector pET30a to obtain the plasmid pET30a-AAV-CR for prokaryotic expression and purification of the conserved peptides. Coomassie blue staining and Western blotting were used to identify the AAV conserved peptides. Japanese big ear white rabbits were immunized with AAV conserved region protein to prepare polyclonal antibody, with the rabbits injected with PBS as the control group. The antibody titer was determined with ELISA, and the performance of the antibody for recognizing capsid protein sequences of AAV1-AAV10 was assessed with Western blotting and immunofluorescence assay.

RESULTS

The plasmid pET30a-AAV-CR was successfully constructed, and a recombinant protein with a relative molecular mass of 17000 was obtained. The purified protein induced the production of antibodies against the conserved regions of AAV capsid in rabbits, and the titer of the purified antibodies reached 1:320 000. The antibodies were capable of recognizing a wide range of capsid protein sequences of AAV1-AAV10.

CONCLUSION

We successfully obtained the polyclonal antibodies against AAV capsid conserved region protein from rabbits, which facilitate future studies of AAV vector development and the biological functions of AAV.

Chinese Version of the Baylor Profound Mental Status Examination: A Brief Staging Measure for Patients with Severe Alzheimer's Disease

BACKGROUND

A specialized instrument for assessing the cognition of patients with severe Alzheimer's disease (AD) is needed in China.

OBJECTIVES

To validate the Chinese version of the Baylor Profound Mental Status Examination (BPMSE-Ch).

DESIGN

The BPMSE is a simplified scale which has proved to be a reliable and valid tool for evaluating patients with moderate to severe AD, it is worthwhile to extend the use of it to Chinese patients with AD.

SETTING

Patients were assessed from the Memory Clinic Outpatient.

PARTICIPANTS

All participants were diagnosed as having probable AD by assessment.

MEASUREMENTS

The BPMSE was translated into Chinese and back translated. The BPMSE-Ch was administered to 102 AD patients with a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score below 17. We assessed the internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity between the BPMSE-Ch and MMSE, Severe Impairment Battery (SIB), Global Deterioration Scale (GDS-1), Geriatric Depression Scale(GDS-2), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), Physical Self-Maintenance Scale (PSMS), Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR).

RESULTS

The BPMSE-Ch showed good internal consistency (α = 0.87); inter-rater and test-retest reliability were both excellent, ranging from 0.91 to 0.99. The construct validity of the measure was also supported by significant correlations with MMSE, SIB. Moreover, as expected, the BMPSE-Ch had a lower floor effect than the MMSE, but a ceiling effect existed for patients with MMSE scores above 11.

CONCLUSIONS

The BPMSE-Ch is a reliable and valid tool for evaluating cognitive function in Chinese patients with severe AD.

[Effect of Tongli Shuji acupuncture on the expression of Jagged2 and Notch2 in a rat model of permanent ischemia of the right middle cerebral artery]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Tongli Shuji acupuncture on the behavioristics, the percentage of cerebral infarct volume, and the expression of Jagged2 and Notch2 proteins in the hippocampus of the ischemic hemisphere in rats with permanent ischemia of the right middle cerebral artery, as well as the mechanism of Tongli Shuji acupuncture in improving ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group, model control group, medication group, routine acupuncture group, and Tongli Shuji group, with 10 rats in each group. The suture method was used to establish a model of permanent ischemia of the right middle cerebral artery. The rats in the medication group were given Citicoline (0.4 mg/kg) by gavage, those in the routine acupuncture group were given acupuncture at"Baihui"(GV20) and"Dazhui" (GV14) 15 minutes per day, and those in the Tongli Shuji group were given acupuncture at "Zhengying "(GB17), "Tianjing"(SJ10), and"Huantiao"(GB30) at the left side. The neurological deficit score was determined on days 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 after surgery, the percentage of cerebral infarct volume was measured after treatment, and Western blot was used to measure the protein expression of Jagged2 and Notch2 in the right hippocampal tissue.

RESULTS

Compared with the sham-operation group, the model control group had significant increases in the neurological deficit score on day 1 after surgery (P<0.001). Compared with the model control, medication and routine acupuncture groups, the Tongli Shuji group had significant reductions in the neurological deficit score on day 21 after surgery (P<0.01). Compared with the sham-operation group, the model control group had a significant increase in the percentage of cerebral infarct volume(P<0.05)．The Tongli Shuji group had a significant reduction in the percentage of cerebral infarct volume compared with the medication groups (P<0.05). Compared with the model control group, the routine acupuncture group had a significant increase in the expression of hippocapmal Jagged2(P<0.01)．Compared with the model control, medication and routine acupuncture groups, the Tongli Shuji group had significant increases in the expression of hippocampal Jagged2 and Notch2 (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Acupuncture can improve the behavioral manifestations of neurological deficit in rats with permanent ischemia of the right middle cerebral artery. Tongli Shuji acupuncture can significantly up-regulate the protein expression of Jagged2 and Notch2 in the hippocampal tissue of the ischemic region, possibly by activating the Notch signaling pathway to exert a neuroprotective effect.

[The effect of three trigger methodson pregnancy outcome of intrauterine insemination]

Objective: To analysepregnancy outcome of intrauterine insemination(IUI) after three different trigger methods. Methods: A retrospective study was designed, included 341 couples seeking for their first or second IUI cycle from 2016.7 to 2018.6 in women's hospital, school of medicine, zhejiang university. Ovulation was trigger by HCG 10 000 IU in 154 cases named HCG group, by 0.1/0.2 mg triptorelinin 94 cases called GnRHa group, by HCG combined with triptorelinin in 93 cases defined as dual trigger group. The primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate beyond 28 gestational weeks,second outcome which contains biochemical pregnancy, miscarriagerate, ectopic pregnancy rateand multiple pregnancy rate were also observed in three groups. Results: Pregnancy outcomeshowed no significant difference among three groups. Conclusions: The study suggested that all this three methods(HCG trigger, GnRHa trigger, HCG combined with GnRHa dual trigger) couldinduced ovulation, their effects on IUI pregnancyout come were similar.

A Short-Term Exposure to Tributyltin Blocks Leydig Cell Regeneration in the Adult Rat Testis

Background: Tributyltin (TBT) is widely used as an antifouling agent that may cause reproductive toxicity. The mechanism of TBT on Leydig cell development is still unknown. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether a brief exposure to low doses of TBT permanently affects Leydig cell development and to clarify the underlying mechanism. Methods: Adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into four groups and gavaged normal saline (control), 0.1, 1.0, or 10.0 mg/kg/day TBT for a consecutive 10 days, respectively. At the end of TBT treatment, all rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of 75 mg/kg ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) to eliminate all of adult Leydig cells. Leydig cells began a developmental regeneration process on post-EDS day 35. The Leydig cell regeneration was evaluated by measuring serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels on post-EDS day 7, 35, and 56, the expression levels of Leydig cell genes, Leydig cell morphology and number and proliferation on post-EDS day 56. Results: TBT significantly reduced serum testosterone levels on post-EDS day 35 and 56 and increased serum luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels on post-EDS day 56 at ≥1 mg/kg/day. Immunohistochemical staining showed that there were fewer regenerated Leydig cells in the TBT-treated testis on post-EDS day 56. Further study demonstrated that the mRNA or protein levels of Leydig (Lhcgr, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Hsd17b3) and Sertoli cells (Fshr, Dhh, and Sox9) were significantly down-regulated in the TBT-treated testes when compared to the control. Immunofluorescent staining showed that TBT inhibited Leydig cell proliferation as judged by the reduced number of proliferating cyclin nuclear antigen-positive Leydig cells on post-EDS day 35. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that a short-term TBT exposure blocked Leydig cell developmental regeneration process via down-regulating steroidogenesis-related proteins and inhibiting the proliferation of Leydig cells.

[Clinical analysis of aphakic glaucoma following infantile congenital cataract surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, occurrence time and types of aphakic glaucoma following infantile congenital cataract surgery.

METHODS

The records of children who underwent surgery for congenital cataract within the first 24 months of life between January 2010 and January 2014 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University were retrospectively reviewed.Children with preoperative conditions associated with glaucoma were excluded.The following parameters were ascertained: age received cataract surgery, operation method, the incidence, occurrence time and types of glaucoma.

RESULTS

A total of 205 patients (324 eyes) with an average surgery age of 13.9 months were included, and the mean follow-up time was 47.6 months.The operation method was cataract extraction combined with posterior continuous circular capsulorhexis and anterior vitrectomy.Twenty-nine patients (37 eyes, 11.42%) had subsequent development of aphakic glaucoma, 9 eyes of which (2.78%) developed early onset angle closed glaucoma, and the occurrence time was (4.2±2.6) months after cataract surgery; 28 eyes (8.64%) developed late onset open angle glaucoma, 26 of which was angle open glaucoma, and the rest two was angle closed glaucoma.The occurrence time was (37.5±11.0) months after cataract surgery. Twenty-nine patients (37 eyes) developed aphakic glaucoma had cataract surgery within 2 to 12 months (6.8 months on average). The rest 176 patients (287 eyes) who did not develop glaucoma had cataract surgery at 10 to 24 months (14.1 months on average).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of aphakic glaucoma following infantile congenital cataract surgery is 11.42%.Aphakic glaucoma is divided into two types of early onset angle closed glaucoma and late onset open angle glaucoma.The occurence time of glaucoma was 2 months to 64 months after cataract surgery.Late onset open angle glaucoma is the most common type.

Effects of JIP3 on epileptic seizures: Evidence from temporal lobe epilepsy patients, kainic-induced acute seizures and pentylenetetrazole-induced kindled seizures

JNK-interacting protein 3 (JIP3), also known as JNK stress-activated protein kinase-associated protein 1 (JSAP1), is a scaffold protein mainly involved in the regulation of the pro-apoptotic signaling cascade mediated by c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Overexpression of JIP3 in neurons in vitro has been reported to lead to accelerated activation of JNK and enhanced apoptosis response to cellular stress. However, the occurrence and the functional significance of stress-induced modulations of JIP3 levels in vivo remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the expression of JIP3 in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and in a kainic acid (KA)-induced mouse model of epileptic seizures, and determined whether down-regulation of JIP3 can decrease susceptibility to seizures and neuron damage induced by KA. We found that JIP3 was markedly increased in TLE patients and a mouse model of epileptic seizures; mice underexpressing JIP3 through lentivirus bearing LV-Letm1-RNAi showed decreased susceptibility, delayed first seizure and decreased seizure duration response to the epileptogenic properties of KA. Subsequently, a decreased activation of JNK following seizure induction was observed in mice underexpressing JIP3, which also exhibited less neuronal apoptosis in the CA3 region of the hippocampus, as assessed three days after KA administration. We also found that mice underexpressing JIP3 exhibited a delayed pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced kindling seizure process.

Nutritional status of an elderly population in Southwest China: a cross-sectional study based on comprehensive geriatric assessment

OBJECTIVE

Few data is available on the nutritional status of old Chinese. The present study aimed to describe the nutritional status and clinical correlates for malnutrition risk in the older people.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Hospital- and community-based older people were recruited in the region of Chongqing, China.

PARTICIPANTS

558 individuals aged 60 years old or over between April 2011 and October 2012.

MEASUREMENTS

Comprehensive geriatric assessment was performed and nutritional status was assessed by the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF). Nutrition-associated factors were analyzed, including health status (chronic diseases, depression, cognition, function impaired), social factors (education status, marital status, the type of work before 60 years old) and life style factors (smoking, drinking, diet).

RESULTS

The mean age was 73.1±8.0 years and 43.9% were men. Prevalence of malnutrition and risk for malnutrition were 3.2% and 19.3 %, respectively. Several factors increased poor nutrition independently including self-rated health, comorbidity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, gastrointestinal disease and cognitive impairment. Fish decreased the risk of poor nutrition.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence was relatively low in older people of Chongqing, Southwest China. Poor nutrition was found to be increased due to the common health problems. Thus the patients with these problems should pay more attention on nutritional status. The older people should often have fish because of their nutritional benefit.

Diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis infection in liver transplant recipients: case reports

AIM

Tuberculosis (TB) infection after liver transplantation was described, diagnosed and treated herein.

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical presentation, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of 2 cases of TB infection posttransplantation.

RESULTS

Mycobacterium TB infection occurred in 2 of 110 (1.8%) patients undergoing liver transplantation between 2001 and 2006. Pyrexia, poor appetite, and weight loss were common presentations. The diagnosis was confirmed using lymph node biopsy and treated with standard antituberculous agents. One patient was suspected of having TB infection by clinical presentation, and tentative anti-TB drugs were used. The duration of treatment was 9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and treatment are important in these patients. Careful monitoring of liver function and immunosuppressant levels are essential for patients who receive standard anti-TB drugs.

[An analysis for causes of skeletal relapse after correction of mandibular prognathism by BSSRO]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the factors responsible for the skeletal relapse after correction of mandibular prognathism by BSSRO.

METHODS

The skeletal and dental changes before and after the surgery were analysed by cephalometrics, The factors that might be responsible for the skeletal relapse were evaluated using multiple linear and partial correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The changes of NP-FH angle at follow up had a significant correlation with MP-FHT4-3 angle, the duration of presurgical orthodontics and the observation period after surgery(r = -0.568, -0.406, -0.400, P < 0.01-0.05).

CONCLUSION

The skeletal relapse following BSSRO was limited. The stability was related to the period of presurgical orthodontics and the mandibular rotation after the surgery.

[Anti-tumor effect of E1B55kDa-deleted adenovirus on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumoral effect of E1B55kDa-deleted adenovirus (dl1520) on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines.

METHODS

Human HCC cell lines with different p53 genotypes were infected with dl1520. Four days after infection, the percentage of survival cells was determined by colorimetric assay. RT-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to examine alterations of p53 and p21Waf-1 expression. Adenovirus hexon gene expression was applied to prove the presence of adenovirus infections. Effects on vivo anti-tumor dl1520 were examined with intra-tumor injection of dl1520 in the SCID mice.

RESULTS

After the infection, the p53-null HCC cell line, Hep3B was most vulnerable to dl1520 induced cytotoxic effect with a cell death rate of more than 60%. Whereas, less than 20% PLC/PRF/5 (p53-mutant) and HepG2 (p53-wild type) HCC cell lines were killed. The expression of p53 and p21Waf-1 was considerably enhanced after the dl1520 infection in HepG2. The intra-tumor injection of dl1520 significantly reduced the tumor growth in Hep3B xenografts. In contrast, no obvious tumor repression was observed in HepG2 and PLC/PRF/5 xenografts.

CONCLUSION

dl1520 selectively kills the p53-null hepatocellular carcinoma, showing potential application for cancer treatment.

[Current evolution of plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite coating]

The present attempt is to briefly review the processing and properties of plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite coatings in terms of characteristics of hydroxyapatite ceramics, plasma spraying technology, titanium-ceramic interfacial cracking and component designing of hydroxyapatite coating based composite. The coating is a weak part in implant system. The main purpose of research on plasma spraying technology and component designing is to improve coating integrality and coating-matrix adhesion strength. Functionally gradient materials can provide a new route to solve the above two problems.

[Analysis of the methylation in CpG island by denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a new approach for analyzing methylation circumventing the limitations of the existing methods.

METHODS

A region containing CpG sites in mismatch repair gene hMLH1 promoter was amplified by strand-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) after sodium bisulfite treatment. The retention time of the PCR product at partially denaturing temperature was determined by denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC). The methylation status obtained by DHPLC was proved by comparing it with that from sodium bisulfite-restriction enzyme digestion.

RESULTS

Methylation of hMLH1 promoter from a colorectal cancer cell line RKO and a gastric cancer cell line PACM82 was analyzed by DHPLC. The retention time of the PCR product from RKO was obviously longer than that from PACM82 (6.7 min vs. 6.2 min). Thus, it was concluded that the hMLH1 promoter from RKO was methylated, while that from PACM82 was not, since the longer retaining time of RKO was due to the higher C/G content after sodium bisulfite treatment. The results from DHPLC were consistent with those from sodium bisulfite-restriction enzyme digestion.

CONCLUSION

DHPLC method is a rapid and reliable approach for analyzing methylation in CpG island of the sequence of interest.

[Treatment of Class II division 1 malocclusions with single maxillary extraction orthodontics]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects, indications and clinical significance of single maxillary extraction orthodontics used for class II division 1 malocclusions.

METHODS

14 class II division 1 patients were treated by single maxillary extraction orthodontics, the cephalometric data before and after treatment were analysed by statistical methods.

RESULTS

After treatment, 1. the angle 1-FH had decreased by 11.03 degrees and the angle 1-MP had increased by 3.07 degrees; 2. The mandibular length had increased by 3.30 mm; 3. the upper and lower lip were retruded by 2.65 mm and 1.64 mm respectively. Statistical significance (P < 0.001-0.05) was found between the means before and after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Single maxillary extraction orthodontics is suitable for class II division 1 patients with less labial tipping of lower incisors and less lip protrusion.

[Isolation of genes associated with renoprotective effects of astragalus and angelica by silver staining mRNA differential display]

OBJECTIVE

To isolate genes associated with chronic progression of renal diseases and renoprotective effects of Astragalus and Angelica(A & A).

METHODS

Chronic puromycin nephropathy, which is characterized by massive proteinuria and progressive glomerular sclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, was induced in SD rats by repeated peritoneal injections of puromycin. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: (1) normal control (n = 7), (2) puromycin nephropathy without A&A treatment (n = 7), (3) puromycin nephropathy A & A treatment (3 ml/d, n = 7). After 12 weeks, serum, urine and renal tissue were collected for study. The technique of silver staining mRNA differential display (DD) was used to investigate the changes of gene expression in kidneys of normal and nephropathy with and without A&A treatment rats. Genes expressing differently during the progression of renal diseases were isolated and the progression could be normalized by A&A.

RESULTS

Twenty-six candidate cDNA fragments were isolated with DD. Northern blot analysis of eight randomly chosen candidate cDNA fragments demonstrated one exhibiting reduced mRNA expression in the fibrogenic process but upregulated by A&A treatment. Besides kidney, the gene was also expressed in lung, heart, liver and spleen. Whether it takes part in fibrogenic processes of these organs needs further study. Homology analysis through BLAST revealed that this gene was a novel one.

CONCLUSION

Silver staining mRNA differential display is a simple and quick technique for isolating differently expressed genes. The downregulated expression of the isolated new gene may contribute significantly to the fibrogenic process and be associated with A&A's protective effects.

[Analysis of facial profile preferences among the Chinese population]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the preferences of Chinese population for facial profile esthetics.

METHODS

400 panelists were randomly selected from Chinese cultural and educational backgrounds. Subjects were asked to rank the five distinct facial profiles of yellow race in descending order of attractiveness.

RESULTS

The ranking was as follows: B, A, E, D, C. The differences in rank scores among all the profile types were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

1. Given a choice between an orthognathic or a more retrusive profile, Chinese public tended to prefer the latter; 2. The preferences for facial profile esthetics were not influenced by sex, age and educational level.

[Microsatellite instability in urine sediments from patients with transitional cell carcinoma of bladder and its clinical value]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of microsatellite instability in transitional cell carcinoma of bladder and to detect its diagnostic value.

METHODS

Urine samples from 35 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of bladder (TCC) were analyzed by PCR method. 25 patients were followed up to detect microsatellite instability in their urine sediments.

RESULTS

Microsatellite changes (including MSI and LOH) were detected in 88.6% of urine sediments (31 of 35 patients). Microsatellite changes were detected in urine sediments of 10 of 12 patients with tumor recurrence, in which the existence of tumor cells in the urine of 3 patients had been correctly predicted before cystoscopic evidence from 3 to 6 months. CONCLUSION Microsatellite analysis of urine sediment may be a novel and potentially clinical tool for the diagnosis and follow-up of bladder cancer patients.

Effects of acupuncture on the pituitary-thyroid axis in rabbits with fracture

PURPOSE

To observe the effects of acupuncture on the pituitary-thyroid axis in rabbits with fracture.

METHOD

36 male rabbits with a 3-mm width experimental defect in the middle segment of the left radius were randomly divided into the treatment group and control group, and the changes in serum T3, T4 and TSH contents in different weeks were investigated.

RESULTS

Serum T3, T4 and TSH contents in the treatment group all were higher than those in the control group, with statistically significant differences in the contents of T4 and TSH in the second week and T3 content in the fourth week (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The action of promoting union of fracture is possibly related with the pituitary-thyroid axis.

The distribution of substance P receptor (NK1)-like immunoreactive neurons in the newborn and adult human spinal cord

Substance P receptor (i.e. NK1)-like immunoreactive (SPR-LI) neurons were observed in the newborn and adult human spinal cord. Substance P receptor-like immunoreactive neuronal cell bodies were seen most frequently in lamina I, and were scattered throughout the remaining laminae of the dorsal horn and the area around the central canal. Some neurons in the intermediolateral nucleus also showed weak immunoreactivity. The pattern of distribution of SPR-LI neurons in the adult spinal cord was essentially the same as that in the newborn spinal cord. However, SPR-LI neurons cell bodies were seen much more frequently in the newborn than in the adult dorsal horn, especially in lamina II.

[Observation on micronuclei incidence of peripheral blood lymphocyte in attendants diesel locomotive and wheel axle workers]

The analyses of micronuclei of peripheral blood lymphocyte was performed in 51 attendents in diesel locomotive and 30 wheel axle workers. The results showed that the rates of positive micronucleus, micronucleus cells and micronuclei in the attendants and the wheel axle workers were much higher than the control group. The frequencies of micronucleus cells and micronuclei obviously increased with the service time. The possible reasons which caused the micronucleus increase in two types of workers were discussed.

[Relationships between mandibular canine calcification stages and skeletal maturity]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between mandibular canine calcification and skeletal maturity.

METHODS

Hand wrist and mandibular canine radiographs of 106 boys and 152 girls in Beijing area were assessed.

RESULTS

Mandibular canine calcification coincides with the initiation of puberty in male (93.8%) and with the deceleration of puberty in female(89.7%). However the coincidence with the indicators of other pubertal stages was less than 50%.

CONCLUSION

Mandibular canine calcification just can give an initial assessment for estimating the timing of puberty.

[A study of interferon alpha-2b as an accessory drug after glaucoma filtration surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the inhibitory action of interferon alpha-2b (IFN alpha-2b) on the cicatrization under conjunctiva and the best way to use it after glaucoma filtration surgery.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical PAP method and image biological system 2000 (IBAS 2000) were utilized to quantitatively analyze the inhibitory effect of IFN alpha-2b on the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) of cultured calf fibroblasts; the effects of IFN alpha-2b on collagen contents in suture-caused cicatrization under conjunctiva and changes of aqueous humor protein after trabeculectomy performed on rabbits have also been observed.

RESULTS

IFN alpha-2b reduced the expression of EGFR of cultured bovine fibroblasts at a dose-dependent manner. The relationship between the EGFR and the dosage of IFN alpha-2b is Y = 2953.8 - 554.5 lgx (r = -0.98, P < 0.01). With 4.67 x 10(-5) micromol/L IFN alpha-2b not only reduced about 50% of the collagen in suture-caused cicatrization, but also significantly decreased the protein concentration of aqueous humour 3 and 72 hours after trabeculectomy.

CONCLUSION

It is promising that IFN alpha-2b can be used after glaucoma filtration surgery to reduce excessive cicatrization with many advantages compared with antimetabolites.

[A surveillance study on penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae in China]

OBJECTIVES

To find out if there are penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae and the resistance rate in China.

METHODS

989 pediatric patients with respiratory tract infections aged from 6 months to 3 years from two pediatric units were enrolled. Perthroat swabs were immediately streaked onto blood agar plates and incubated overnight. Pneumococci were identified and isolated. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed by the disk diffusion method and MIC determination according to Protocol and NCCLS.

RESULTS

Of the 51 Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates, 5 strains had zones > or = 20 mm. Two of the 5 strains had penicillin MICs > or = 0.1 mg/L (2 and 4 mg/L) and considered to be fully resistant to penicillin(4%). The resistance rate to ceftriaxone and cefotaxime was 0 and 4% respectively. For the other 10 antimicrobial agents, the resistance rates were as follows: ampicillin 12%, piperacillin 26%, furbenicillin 14%, cefuroxime 6%, erythromycin 54%, clarithromycin 52%, meleumycin 64%, roxithromycin 52%, chloramphenicol 32%, and tetracycline 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggested that penicillin resistant Streptococcus Pneumoniae strains also exist, and the cross-resistance is a significant phenomenon in China.

[Expression of p53 and ras p21 gene products in malignant transformed V79 cell induced by various organic components of DEPs]

The effect of various fractions of diesel exhausted particles on the expression of mutant p53 antigen product and ras oncogene p21 product was examined by immunohistochemical method in malignant transformed V79 cell. The result showed that all fractions of diesel exhausted particles (DEPs) could significantly increase the expression of p53 products (P < 0.01). It demonstrated that the organic fractions of DEPs could induce the mutation of p53 suppressor gene in malignant transformed cells. But the expression levels of ras oncogene p21 product were not changed under the same experimental conditions (P > 0.05).

[A preliminary observation on vitrectomy combined with autologous platelet concentrate for the treatment of idiopathic macular holes]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of vitrectomy combined with autologous platelet concentrate for the treatment of idiopathic macular holes.

METHODS

Fifteen eyes of 14 patients with idiopathic macular hole were treated. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 16 months. Postoperatively, visual acuity, macular threshold, Amsler grid, fluorescein angiography (FA) and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the fifteen eyes, the closure of the holes was achieved in 13 eyes (86.7%), visual acuity improved for two lines or more in 12 eyes (80.0%). The postoperative visual acuities in patients with abnormal Amsler grid were improved. No significant differences were found in the macular threshold (P = 0.34). Postoperative FA showed that the blocked fluorescence at the site of the macular hole which was surrounded by a hyperfluorescence ring (window defect) in three eyes. The intraoperative complication was primarily the retinal hole, and the postoperative complication was chiefly the aggravation of cataract.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that vitrectomy combined with autologous platelet concentrate can seal the macular hole well and improve the visual acuity in most patients. A large multicenter randomized prospective study and a longer period of follow-up are needed to verify these results.

[High frequency mutation of p53 gene in human gastric cancer and precancerous lesions]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency and type of p53 gene mutation with the progression of human gastric carcinogenesis.

METHODS

Single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequencing were performed on 56 biopsied tissues, including gastric cancer (n = 23), dysplasia (Dys, n = 16) and intestinal metaplasia (IM, n = 17).

RESULTS

p53 gene mutation was detected in 60.1% of cancer, 31.3% of Dys and 11.8% of IM. Mutations covered exon 5-8 without hot spot. GC-->AT transitions (30.4%) and GC-->TA transversions (26.1%) were the major patterns of p53 mutation. Missense (73.9%) and frame shift mutations covered 86.9% of all mutations.

CONCLUSION

In the process of human gastric carcinogenesis, multiple factors are involved in p53 gene mutations. The mutation rate increases with the progression of malignant changes in the gastric mucosa. Missense and frame shift mutations are possibly the major cause of p53 inactivation.

Study on delay two-phase multiple organ dysfunction syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To study the injury factors, pathogenic process and clinical features of delay two-phase multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) in severe burned patients and to replicate a standardized animal model that would accurately imitate the clinical features of MODS.

METHODS

Forty-five human patients with burn size larger than 30% total body surface area (TBSA) were analyzed. All of them underwent severe burn shock in early stage and sepsis in late stage. Thirty-two goats were randomly divided into three groups: 1) hemorrhagic shock (group H, n = 6); 2) endotoxemia (group E, n = 6); and 3) hemorrhagic shock plus endotoxemia (group M, n = 20). Hemorrhagic shock was produced according to the method of Wigger (6.7 kPa for an hour, 1 kPa = 7.5 mmHg). Endotoxin (E. coli O111 B4) was given via the portal vein 24 hours after the resuscitation of hemorrhagic shock, in a dose of 30 ng/kg/min for 5 consecutive days. During the observation period of 10 days, all animals were hemodynamically monitored, given standard metabolic support and due cardiac and pulmonary support according to human intensive care.

RESULTS

All the patients showed burn shock at 1-3 days and hyperdynamic circulation, hypermetabolism and systemic inflammatory responses over two weeks post-injury. Thirteen cases were found to develop MODS according to the prevailing diagnostic criteria, and 10 of them died with a mortality of 77%. Eighteen animals died in group M with a mortality of 90%, 12 of the 18 developed MODS, with overall incidence of 60%. Most animals in group M showed changes similar to that observed in human cases. The experimentation proved that in the pathogenic process of MODS, there was a two-hit phenomenon in the dvelopment of the syndrome. To prevent the development of MODS, it therefore was imperative to blunt the first hit or the second hit, so that an excessive inflammatory response was alleviated. This postulation has been verified in the treatment of extensive burns. Two patients with burn extent reaching 100% TBSA survived with only mild acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and renal dysfunction after comprehensive treatment of burn shock, including adequate fluid resuscitation, drugs to remove oxygen free radicals, rapid restoration of pHi, and early extensive excision of burn eschars.

CONCLUSION

Both in human patients or animal experimentation, the typical delay two-phase MODS is shown to be produced by two successive insults in the forms of hypovolemic shock and sepsis. This postulation is helpful in formulating the prevention and treatment modality of MODS.

[The influence of pressure on human lamina cribrosa cell and its collagen synthesis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the influence of pressure on human lamina cribrosa cell (HLC) and its synthesis of collagen.

METHOD

HLCs were cultured in vitro and submitted to elevated hydrostatic pressure, their changes in morphology were observed by light and electron microscopy and their synthesis of collagen was measured with fluorescence spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

Under a hydrostatic pressure of 6.67 kPa (1 kPa = 7.5 mmHg), the flat and polygonal HLCs became elongated. Vacuoles appeared in the cytoplasm and increased as the pressure persisted. The mitochondria were swollen, some of them turned into vacuoles, and myelin figures were found in the cytoplasm. When exposed to elevated pressure for 3 days, the amounts of synthesized collagen type I, III, IV were 43.95 +/- 6.37, 61.35 +/- 10.35 and 82.90 +/- 11.36 arbitrary unit (AU) by fluorometry respectively, and compared to controls, they were statistically significantly (P < 0.05) increased; after 5 days of pressure exposure, the amounts were 33.50 +/- 6.94, 40.85 +/- 12.30 and 80.45 +/- 14.65 AU, e.g., still increased.

CONCLUSION

It is indicated that under pressure, HLCs undergo obvious morphological changes and increase their synthesis of collagen types I, III and IV.

[Numerical change of 7, 17 and Y chromosomes in human lung carcinoma detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization]

OBJECTIVE

To study the copy number of chromsomes 7,17 and Y in lung carcinomas.

METHODS

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to detect the number of above mentioned chromosomes on the touch smears of 17 cases of lung carcinoma (adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma).

RESULTS

Triploid chromosome 7 FISH signals were found in 31.73% of the tumor nuclei, dipoid chromosome 17 FISH signals in 43.00% and monoploid chromosome Y FISH signals in 58.04% of these nuclei.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of chromosome 7 was obviously increased in both lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and the rate of trisomy 7 was the highest. In addition, there is a significant difference in the distribution of chromosome 7 ploidy between lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

[Chromosome marker--2q- during carcinogenesis and development of human lung cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To study the cytogengtic alterations during the development of human lung cancer and to clarify the genetic basis of lung cancer.

METHODS

Using Fluorescence in situ Hybridization FISH, we have studied the chromosomal alterations of chromosome 2 and 3 in human bronchial epithelial cell line M, and 12 primary non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) specimens.

RESULTS

2q- was found in the later passage of human bronchial epithelial cell line M, and 3 out of 7 primary NSCLC specimens tested. 3p- being noted in five cases of 12 primary NSCLC patients examined was the first cytogenetic discovery and the most prominent abnormality in lung cancer. 2q- was rarely reported in human lung cancer before. But loss of heterozygosity by RFLP analysis for 2q had been reported in lung cancer.

CONCLUSION

2q- is also a common chromosome abnormality in human lung cancer. There would also be one or more putative tumor suppressor gene(s) on the long arm of chromosome 2. Loss of the gene(s) may contribute to the carcinogenesis of human non-small-cell lung cancer.

Coexistence of mu-opioid receptor-like and substance P-like immunoreactivities in the cat dorsal root ganglionic neurons

Coexistence of mu-opioid receptor (MOR)-like immunoreactivity (LI) and substance P (SP)-LI in the neurons of the cat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) was examined by a double immunofluorescence histochemical method. Approximately 91% of SP-LI neurons in the DRG showed MOR-LI. However, SP-LI was exhibited in approximately 28% of the neurons labeled with MOR-LI. These morphological findings indicated that the MOR exist on most of the primary afferent SP-containing terminals, and suggest that MOR may regulate SP release from the primary afferent terminals in the cat dorsal horn.

[A study of 5-fluorouracil on bovine trabecular meshwork cells in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the clinical use of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) may have any toxic effects on trabecular meshwork cells.

METHODS

Bovine trabecular meshwork (BTM) cells were cultured in vitro. The effects of 5-FU on BTM cells concerning cellular morphology, ultrastructure, vitality and phagocytosis were observed.

RESULT

The safe dosage of 5-FU on BTM cell was 1 x 10-6g.ml-1.

CONCLUSION

Based on the pharmacokinetic data in the rabbit anterior chamber, it is suggested that the 5-FU dosage of conventional use cause no injury to human trabecular meshwork cells.

Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-2,3,4-trione 3-oximes: novel and highly potent antagonists for NMDA receptor glycine site

A series of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-2,3,4-trione 3-oximes (QTOs) was synthesized and evaluated for antagonism of NMDA receptor glycine site. Glycine site affinity was determined using a [3H]DCKA binding assay in rat brain membranes and electrophysiologically in Xenopus oocytes expressing 1a/2C subunits of cloned rat NMDA receptors. Selected compounds were also assayed for antagonism of AMPA receptors in Xenopus oocytes expressing rat brain poly-(A)+RNA. QTOs were prepared by nitrosation of 2,4-quinolinediols. Structure-activity studies indicated that substitutions in the 5-, 6-, and 7-positions increase potency, whereas substitution in the 8-position causes a decrease in potency. Among the derivatives evaluated, 5,6,7-trichloro-QTO was the most potent antagonist with an IC50 of 7 nM in the [3H]DCKA binding assay and a Kb of 1-2 nM for NMDA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. 5,6,7-Trichloro-QTO also had a Kb of 180 nM for AMPA receptors in electrophysiological assays. The SAR of QTOs was compared with the SAR of 1,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-diones (QXs). For compounds with the same benzene ring substitution pattern, QTOs were generally 5-10 times more potent than the corresponding QXs. QTOs represent a new class of inhibitors of the NMDA receptor which, when appropriately substituted, are among the most potent glycine site antagonists known.

[The overexpression of c-met oncogene correlation with gastric mucosal lesion]

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether there is a relationship between overexpression of c-met oncoprotein and stage of human gastric mucosal lesions, and its significance.

METHOD

Immunohistochemical staining was used in 157 cases of endoscopic biopsies with c-met monoclonal antibody, S-19, which was raised against the human c-met gene product.

RESULTS

overexpresion of c-met oncoprotein was detected in 3/30 cases (10%) of superficial gastritis, 4/33 cases (12.1%) of chronic atrophic gastritis, 10/31 cases (32.3%) of intestinal mataplasia, 10/30 cases (33.3%) of dysplasia, and 10/30 cases (33.3%) of gastric carcinoma. The positive staining rate was higher in intestinal mataplasia (54.8%), dysplasia (56.7%), carcinoma (53.3%) than in two kinds of simple chronic gastritis (P < 0.05). The positive staining was obviously located in luminal membrane of mucosal cells. The positive cells were mainly situated in proliferative cell zone of gastric glands. Moreover, the weak staining only in this zone was shown in two of the three normal mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS

The overexpression of c-met may be involved in proliferation of gastric mucosa. It is possible that persistent overexpression of c-met oncoprotein is associated with the malignant transformation of gastric mucosal cells.

Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of substituted 1,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-diones: antagonists of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor glycine sites and non-NMDA glutamate receptors

A series of mono-, di-, tri-, and tetrasubstituted 1,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-diones (QXs) were synthesized and evaluated as antagonists at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)/glycine sites and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid-preferring non-NMDA receptors. Antagonist potencies were measured by electrical assays in Xenopus oocytes expressing rat whole brain poly(A)+ RNA. Trisubstituted QXs 17a (ACEA 1021), 17b (ACEA 1031), 24a, and 27, containing a nitro group in the 5 position and halogen in the 6 and 7 positions, displayed high potency (Kb approximately 6-8 nM) at the glycine site, moderate potency at non-NMDA receptors (Kb = 0.9-1.5 microM), and the highest (120-250-fold) selectivity in favor of glycine site antagonism over non-NMDA receptors. Tetrasubstituted QXs 17d,e were more than 100-fold weaker glycine site antagonists than the corresponding trisubstituted QXs with F being better tolerated than Cl as a substituent at the 8 position. Di- and monosubstituted QXs showed progressively weaker antagonism compared to trisubstituted analogues. For example, removal of the 5-nitro group of 17a results in a approximately 100-fold decrease in potency (10a,b,z), while removal of both halogens from 17a results in a approximately 3000-fold decrease in potency (10v). In terms of steady-state inhibition, most QX substitution patterns favor antagonism at NMDA/glycine sites over antagonism at non-NMDA receptors. Among the QXs tested, only 17i was slightly selective for non-NMDA receptors.

Expression of c-fos protein in substance P receptor-like immunoreactive neurons in response to noxious stimuli on the urinary bladder: an observation in the lumbosacral cord segments of the rat

Chemical irritation of the urinary bladder with formalin in the rat induced c-fos protein-like immunoreactivity in more than 80% of substance P receptor-like immunoreactive (SPR-LI) neurons of the dorsal commissural nucleus, sacral parasympathetic nucleus and lamina I in the 6th lumbar and 1st sacral cord segments. These neurons with SPR-LI may receive noxious information from the urinary bladder through the primary afferent fibers with substance P.

Stable oncogenic transformation induced by microcell-mediated gene transfer

Oncogenes have been identified using DNA-mediated transfection, but the size of the transferable and unrearranged DNA, gene rearrangement and amplification which occur during the transfection process limit the use of the techniques. We have evaluated microcell-mediated gene transfer techniques for the transfer and analysis of dominant oncogenes. MNNG-HOS, a transformed human cell line which contained the met oncogene mapping to human chromosome 7 was infected with retroviruses carrying drug resistance markers and used to optimize microcell preparation and transfer. Stable and drug-resistant hybrids containing single human chromosomes as well as the foci of the transformed cells containing the activated met oncogene and intact human chromosomes were obtained. Hybridization analysis with probes (i.e. col1A2, pJ3.11) mapping up to 1 Mb away from met shows that the cells from the individual foci contain different amounts of apparently unrearranged human DNA associated with the oncogene, and the microcell-generated transformants retain more distal markers than those observed in either DNA- or chromosome-mediated transfers. In conjunction with other techniques, microcell fusion should be useful for gene mapping as well as the study of gene function and expression in cell transformation and malignancy.

[Detecting human papillomavirus DNA of condylomata and pseudo-condylomata by in situ hybridization and polymerase chain reaction in paraffin-embedded specimens]

One hundred and thirty seven cases of paraffin-embedded tissue specimens biopsied each from condylomata and pseudo-condylomata of vulva and vagina were examined. Type 6b 11 human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA was detected in condylomata by in situ hybridization using digoxigeninlabelled probes and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The positive rate was 82.5%, 83.9% respectively. It was negative in the 137 cases of pseudo-condylomata by in situ hybridization, but positive in 3 cases by PCR. For a correct diagnosis, the necessity of combining the data of clinical finding, microscopic examination and in situ hybridization or PCR is emphasized. Our results showed that pseudo-condylomata represent dysplastic appearances of vulval and vaginal mucosa, which become more marked during pregnancy and fungal or trichomonal infections, and could rather easily be misdiagnosed as condylomata.

Treatment of adolescent myopia by pressure plaster of semen impatientis on otoacupoints

295 cases (424 eyes) of adolescent myopia were treated by pressure plaster of Semen Impatientis on otoacupoints with a cure rate of 44.3% and a total effective rate of 98.5%. 36 random cases (69 eyes) were compared with the same number of similar control cases. Findings were that the therapeutic effects of the pressure plaster group excelled significantly those of the control group.

Comparative observations on the types of atrophic gastritis and biopsy pathology of gastric mucosa

300 cases of chronic atrophic gastritis were classified into 3 types of qi-deficiency of spleen and stomach, yang-deficiency of spleen and stomach, and yin-deficiency of spleen and stomach according to syndrome differentiation of traditional Chinese medicine. The biopsy specimens of gastric mucosa were examined histopathologically and for the presence of pyloric spirobacteria. The results showed that the type of yin-deficiency was the most serious in the degree of pathologic changes, or the glandular atrophy and the interstitial inflammatory cellular infiltration, while the rate of pyloric spirobacteria presence was comparable in all types.

The distribution and origin of axon terminals with NADPH diaphorase activity in the nucleus of the solitary tract of the rat

The distribution and origin of axon terminals containing nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were examined in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NST) of the rat by NADPH diaphorase histochemistry combined with nodose ganglionectomy. Axon terminals with NADPH diaphorase activity were densely distributed in the middle and caudal part of the NST. After removal of the nodose ganglion (NG), most of the axon terminals with NADPH activity in the NST were eliminated on the ipsilateral side. These results indicated that most of the axon terminals with NADPH diaphorase in the NST derive from the primary afferent neurons in the NG, and that NOS may be richly contained in the central terminals of NG neurons to produce nitric oxide as a transmitter.

The subdivisions of the intermediolateral nucleus in the sacral spinal cord of the cat

The subdivisions of the sacral intermediolateral nucleus (IML) of the cat have been studied by using a double-labeling technique of retrograde Fluoro-gold (FG) and wheat germ agglutinin-conjugated horseradish peroxidase (WGA-HRP) tracing. The parasympathetic preganglionic neurons (PGNs) that were labeled by the FG injected into the pelvic nerve formed a 'V'-shaped column known as the sacral parasympathetic nucleus (SPN) in the sacral IML. The neurons that were labeled by the WGA-HRP applied to the lateral parabrachial nucleus (PBL) formed an elongated spindle-shaped column extending throughout the IML of the sacral segments. We designated it by the name of sacral visceral sensory nucleus (SVSN). These findings indicate that the sacral IML of the cat contain two distinct subdivisions, SPN and SVSN.