The use of unfixed cryostat sections for electron microscopic study of D-amino acid oxidase activity in rat liver

Unfixed cryostat sections of rat liver were incubated to demonstrate D-amino acid oxidase activity at the ultrastructural level. Incubation was performed by mounting the sections on a semipermeable membrane which was stretched over a gelled incubation medium containing D-proline as substrate and cerium ions as capture reagent for hydrogen peroxide. After an incubation period of 30 min, ultrastructural morphology was retained to such an extent that the final reaction product could be localized in peroxisomes, whereas the crystalline core remained unstained. Control incubations were performed in the absence of substrate; the lack of final reaction product in peroxisomes indicated the specificity of the reaction. We conclude that the semipermeable membrane technique opens new perspectives for localization of enzyme activities at the ultrastructural level without prior tissue fixation, thus enabling localization of the activity of soluble and/or labile enzymes.

[Medical operations at the 2010 love parade in Duisburg]

On 24 July 2010 the love parade, a large scale open air concert was held in the city of Duisburg to which more than 500,000 guests were expected. During the course of the early evening a major tragic incident occurred in which 21 people were crushed to death and several hundred others were injured. In this article the preparation of the emergency and rescue services prior to the event is described and their operations entailing more than 1,600 staff members from all over Germany are illustrated. The article focuses on the mass casualty incident which took place in the tunnel in the early evening of that day.

Bolus consumption of a specifically designed fruit juice rich in anthocyanins and ascorbic acid did not influence markers of antioxidative defense in healthy humans

Exotic fruits such as açai, camu-camu, and blackberries rich in natural antioxidants (ascorbic acid, anthocyanins) are marketed as "functional" foods supporting a pro-/antioxidant balance. Confirming data from human studies are lacking. Within a randomized controlled crossover trial, 12 healthy nonsmokers ingested 400 mL of a blended juice of these fruits or a sugar solution (control). Blood was drawn before and afterward to determine antioxidants in plasma, markers of antioxidant capacity [trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, Folin-Ciocalteu reducing capacity, total oxidant scavenging capacity (TOSC)] and oxidative stress [isoprostane, DNA strand breaks in leukocytes in vivo], and their resistance versus H₂O₂-induced strand breaks. Compared with sugar solution, juice consumption increased plasma ascorbic acid and maintained TOSC and partly Folin-Ciocalteu reducing capacity (both P values < 0.05). Strand breaks in vivo increased after ingestion of both beverages (P < 0.001), probably due to postprandial and/or circadian effects. This anthocyanin-rich fruit juice may stabilize the pro-/antioxidant balance in healthy nonsmokers without affecting markers of oxidative stress.

[2010 Love Parade in Duisburg: clinical experiences in planning and treatment]

BACKGROUND

Tragic incidents at the 2010 Love Parade attracted significant public attention. As the frequency of similar events increases, more hospitals and practitioners will face the necessities of planning and response to unforeseeable occurrences. Obligatory guidelines for physicians do not exist, so that essential aspects are repeatedly discussed for each new event. This paper summarizes the experience of hospitals and emergency departments and draws conclusions, allowing recommendations for reasonable proposals for hospitals and practitioners.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

A structured analysis of data concerning planning, patient flow and injury statistics led to a profile determining personnel, rooms and material which have to be provided by the hospitals. In a consensus conference afterwards and personal interviews with clinical coordinators the preparation of hospitals was evaluated to separate reasonable from needless efforts.

RESULTS

We describe various measures concerning staff, logistics and rooms from the viewpoint of actual application. Reasonable measures for preparation and management of mass panic are analysed and described in detail. Problems are explained and solutions discussed. The result is a qualitative catalogue, which supports the organization of future events.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge and reflection on the experience of the 2010 Love Parade optimizes local emergency guidelines and planning for similar events. A coordinated cooperation of all involved is essential.

Phenolic constituents and antioxidant capacity of four underutilized fruits from the Amazon region

The Amazon region comprises a plethora of fruit-bearing species of which a large number are still agriculturally unimportant. Because fruit consumption has been attributed to an enhanced physical well-being, interest in the knowledge of the chemical composition of underexplored exotic fruits has increased during recent years. This paper provides a comprehensive identification of the polyphenolic constituents of four underutilized fruits from the Amazon region by HPLC/DAD-ESI-MS(n). Araçá ( Psidium guineense ), jambolão ( Syzygium cumini ), muruci ( Byrsonima crassifolia ), and cutite ( Pouteria macrophylla ) turned out to be primarily good sources of hydrolyzable tannins and/or flavonols. Additionally, different flavanonols and proanthocyanidins were identified in some fruits. The antioxidant capacity was determined by using the total oxidant scavenging capacity (TOSC) assay. Cutite showed the highest antioxidant capacity followed by jambolão, araçá, and muruci.

Ultraviolet-B and photosynthetically active radiation interactively affect yield and pattern of monoterpenes in leaves of peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.)

Solar radiation is a key environmental signal in regulation of plant secondary metabolism. Since metabolic responses to light and ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure are known to depend on the ratio of spectral ranges (e.g., UV-B/PAR), we examined effects of different UV-B radiation (280-315 nm) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR, 400-700 nm) levels and ratios on yield and pattern of monoterpenoid essential oil of peppermint. Experiments were performed in exposure chambers, technically equipped for realistic simulation of natural climate and radiation. The experimental design comprised four irradiation regimes created by the combination of two PAR levels including or excluding UV-B radiation. During flowering, the highest essential oil yield was achieved at high PAR (1150 micromol m(-2) s(-1)) and approximate ambient UV-B radiation (0.6 W m(-2)). Regarding the monoterpene pattern, low PAR (550 micromol m(-2) s(-1)) and the absence of UV-B radiation led to reduced menthol and increased menthone contents and thereby to a substantial decrease in oil quality. Essential oil yield could not be correlated with density or diameter of peltate glandular trichomes, the epidermal structures specialized on biosynthesis, and the accumulation of monoterpenes. The present results lead to the conclusion that production of high quality oils (fulfilling the requirements of the Pharmacopoeia Europaea) requires high levels of natural sunlight. In protected cultivation, the use of UV-B transmitting covering materials is therefore highly recommended.

Total oxidant scavenging capacities ofEuterpe oleraceaMart. (Açaí) fruits

The antioxidant capacities of 11 commercial and non-commercial samples of Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) fruit pulp were studied with the total oxidant scavenging capacity assay in a modified and automated version against three reactive oxygen species. The antioxidant capacities of all purple açaí samples were found to be excellent against peroxyl radicals, good against peroxynitrite and poor against hydroxyl radicals compared with common European fruit and vegetable juices recently analysed. In all cases the correlation between sample concentration and antioxidant capacities was non-linear. The antioxidant capacities against all three reactive oxygen species of the fruit pulp from one white açaí variety were very low. The phenolic compounds in purple açaí fruit pulp were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the two major anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside, were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography-visible spectrometry. The contributions of the anthocyanins to the overall antioxidant capacities of the fruit were estimated to be only approximately 10%. Obviously, compounds not yet identified are responsible for the major part of the antioxidant capacities of the açaí fruit pulp.

The condylar plate for treatment of distal femoral fractures: a long-term follow-up study

The aim of this retrospective study was to present the long-term functional and radiological outcomes of indirect reduction techniques and fixation with a condylar plate for treatment of distal femoral supracondylar or intracondylar femoral fractures. The series included 24 men and 17 women, mean age 51 years, between March 1994 and April 1999. All fractures were AO type 33, and eight were open fractures. Primary iliac bone graft was used in five cases. In one case of severe osteoporosis, screw fixation was augmented with cement. There were three delayed unions, one non-union and two infections; four participants required reoperation with bone grafts. Two (5%) participants developed a second varus deformity and three a second valgus deformity; correction osteotomy with bone grafts was necessary in these cases. After a mean follow-up of 9.5 years, the mean Neer score was 82 points and indicated that function was excellent in 16, satisfactory in 9, unsatisfactory in 4 and poor in 2 cases. The mean Neer score in cases of isolated fracture was 89 points and in cases with additional injuries was 72 points. Thus the long-term results of indirect reduction techniques of distal femoral fractures treated with the condylar plate were good to excellent in 82% of cases.

The Penicillium chrysogenum antifungal protein PAF, a promising tool for the development of new antifungal therapies and fungal cell biology studies

In recent years the interest in antimicrobial proteins and peptides and their mode of action has been rapidly increasing due to their potential to prevent and combat microbial infections in all areas of life. A detailed knowledge about the function of such proteins is the most important requirement to consider them for future application. Our research in recent years has been focused on the low molecular weight, cysteine-rich and cationic antifungal protein PAF from Penicillium chrysogenum, which inhibits the growth of opportunistic zoo-pathogens including Aspergillus fumigatus, numerous plant-pathogenic fungi and the model organism Aspergillus nidulans. So far, the experimental results indicate that PAF elicits hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane and the activation of ion channels, followed by an increase in reactive oxygen species in the cell and the induction of an apoptosis-like phenotype. Detailed knowledge about the molecular mechanism of action of antifungal proteins such as PAF contributes to the development of new antimicrobial strategies that are urgently needed.

Allelopathic Monoterpenes Interfere with Arabidopsis thaliana Cuticular Waxes and Enhance Transpiration

Exposure to the allelopathic monoterpenes camphor (100 mg/10 L) and menthol (50 mg/10 L) for 24 h enhanced transpiration of Arabidopsis thaliana fully developed rosette leaves similar to de-waxing. As ascertained by ESEM analyses the leaf surfaces were spotted with platelet like structures which seem to be partly mixed with the lipophilic epicuticular layers. The structures are supposed to contain the condensed monoterpenes, which could be identified by GC. Long term exposure (more than 48 h) to 100 mg/50 mg killed the plants by desiccation, a 24 h exposure caused necrotic spots that became visible one to two days after the treatment. Examinations of the stomatal apertures indicated that monoterpenes induced stomatal opening followed by extreme swelling and a final break down of the protoplasts. Exposure of Arabidopsis thaliana to volatiles of Mentha piperita, Lavandula latifolia and Artemisia camphorata resulted in a dramatic increase of the stomata aperture but swelling of the protoplasts was less exhibited.In contrast to de-waxing, expression of the fatty acid condensing enzyme encoding CER6 gene and de novo synthesis of CER6 protein was not induced after 24 h of exposure to the monoterpenes.The aim of the study was to demonstrate that the lipophilic layers of the leaf surface and the stomata are primary targets of monoterpene allelopathic attack. Enhanced transpiration results from a combination of affected lipophilic wax layers and a disturbed stomata function.

Total oxidant scavenging capacity of Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) seeds and identification of their polyphenolic compounds

The antioxidant capacity of methanol and ethanol seed extracts from Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) against the reactive oxygen species (ROS) peroxyl radicals, peroxynitrite, and hydroxyl radicals was studied with the total oxidant scavenging capacity (TOSC) assay in a modified and automated version. Cold methanol digestion was the most efficient extraction method with respect to the antioxidant capacity. The extracts exhibit good antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals, similar to the capacity of the pulp. The antioxidant capacity against peroxynitrite and hydroxyl radicals is even higher. The main antioxidants identified by HPLC-MS and HPLC-CEAD are five different procyanidins (di- through pentamers); furthermore, protocatechuic acid and epicatechin were identified as minor compounds. Determination of TOSC values of HPLC seed extract fractions indicates that the procyanidins contribute substantially to the overall antioxidant capacity. In addition, however, other compounds that have not yet been identified are responsible for a large part of the observed antioxidant capacity.

Total oxidant scavenging capacities of common European fruit and vegetable juices

The total oxidant scavenging capacity (TOSC) assay in a modified and automated version was applied for a comparative and detailed survey of the antioxidant capacities of 14 common European fruit and vegetable juices (ACE, apple, beetroot, blueberry, carrot, elderberry, lemon, lingonberry, multivitamin, orange, pink grapefruit, sauerkraut, and tomato juices as well as sour cherry nectar). The juices were ranked according to their scavenging capacity against the three reactive oxygen species (ROS) peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite. These ROS are of physiological and technological relevance and cover a broad range of reactivity. Nonlinear correlations between concentrations of all studied samples and antioxidant capacity were taken into account for the assessment of the results. Due to the more complex assay design, results are only partially in accordance with those of the literature. Because of its outstanding TOSC values against two of the three ROS, lingonberry juice deserves special attention.

Penicillium chrysogenum glucose oxidase - a study on its antifungal effects

AIMS

Purification and characterization of the high molecular mass Candida albicans-killing protein secreted by Penicillium chrysogenum.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The protein was purified by a combination of ultrafiltration, chromatofocusing and gel filtration. Enzymological characteristics [relative molecular mass (M(r)) = 155 000, subunit structure alpha(2) with M(r,alpha) = 76 000, isoelectric point (pI) = 5.4] were determined using SDS-PAGE and 2D-electrophoresis. N-terminal amino acid sequencing and homology search demonstrated that the antifungal protein was the glucose oxidase (GOX) of the fungus. The enzyme was cytotoxic for a series of bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi. Vitamin C (1.0 mg ml(-1)) prevented oxidative cell injuries triggered by 0.004 U GOX in Emericella nidulans cultures but bovine liver catalase was ineffective even at a GOX : catalase activity ratio of 0.004 : 200 U. A secondary inhibition of growth in E. nidulans cultures by the oxygen-depleting GOX-catalase system was likely to replace the primary inhibition exerted by H(2)O(2).

CONCLUSIONS

Penicillium chrysogenum GOX possesses similar enzymological features to those described earlier for other Penicillium GOXs. Its cytotoxicity was dependent on the inherent antioxidant potential of the test micro-organisms.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Penicillium chrysogenum GOX may find future applications in glucose biosensor production, the disinfection of medical implants or in the food industry as an antimicrobial and/or preservative agent.

T cells from elderly persons respond to neoantigenic stimulation with an unimpaired IL-2 production and an enhanced differentiation into effector cells

We analysed the capacity of T cells from young and elderly persons to produce IL-2 and IFN-gamma after in vitro stimulation with two neoantigens, namely inactivated rabies virus and recombinant Etr protein of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). Soluble antigens should per definition primarly stimulate CD4(+) naïve T cells. Cytokine production was analysed by ELISPOT technology. T cells from elderly and young donors produced similar amounts of IL-2 after priming with both neoantigens. In contrast, IFN-gamma production was induced earlier and at lower antigenic concentrations in T cells from elderly persons than from young controls indicating an enhanced capacity of primed T cells to differentiate into effector cells. In both age groups the response pattern to neoantigenic stimulation was the same whether unfractionated blood mononuclear cells or purified CD4(+)CD45RA(+) T cells with autologous DC as APC were used. The magnitude of the response was, however slightly lower in isolated cells. Autologous DC still induced an MLR in purified CD4(+)CD45RA(+) cells, which was more pronounced in the young than in the elderly group. Our results demonstrate that the ability of CD4(+) T cells from elderly persons to respond to neoantigenic stimulation is intact and that their capacity to differentiate into effector cells is even enhanced. This is in good agreement with earlier reports on alterations in the homing receptor pattern of naïve T cells in old age. Rapid generation of effector cells from naïve cells may at least partly counterbalance the decreasing size of the naïve T cell pool in elderly persons.

Small, basic antifungal proteins secreted from filamentous ascomycetes: a comparative study regarding expression, structure, function and potential application

Peptides and proteins with antimicrobial activity are produced throughout all kingdoms in nature, from prokaryotes to lower and higher eukaryotes, including fungi, plants, invertebrates and vertebrates. These proteins contribute to an important constitutive or induced defense mechanism of the producer against microorganisms. According to their variety in structure and function, these proteins are classified arbitrarily into groups that are based on their mechanism of action, their structure and their similarity to other known proteins. The present review focuses on a new group of antimicrobial proteins, namely small, basic and cysteine-rich antifungal proteins, which are secreted from filamentous fungi of the group Ascomycetes. These proteins are encoded by orthologous genes and exhibit both similarities and differences concerning their species-specificity, primary structure, protein activity and target sites. The properties of these proteins, their possible mode of action and their potential application for human benefits are discussed in comparison with other already well known antimicrobial proteins.

Characterization of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus–Specific Human T Lymphocyte Responses by Stimulation with Structural TBEV Proteins Expressed in a Recombinant Baculovirus

Very little information is available on human T cell responses following exposure to tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) proteins, largely because the virus is a dangerous pathogen and relatively large amounts of purified antigen would be required for the functional characterization of cellular immune responses. We have produced recombinant TBEV proteins using the baculovirus expression system and tested them for their capacity to stimulate T cells in vitro. T lymphocytes from TBEV vaccinated individuals were characterized. The recombinant E and C proteins triggered CD4+ but not CD8+ cells to proliferate and to produce IFN-gamma and IL-5. T cell responses against recombinant NS3 protein were not detected. T cell lines with specificity for the E protein were also established. These lines were CD4+ and had a TH0 cytokine production pattern. Our results demonstrate the utility of recombinant viral proteins to study the generation and characterization of TBEV specific T cell responses.

Antioxidant activity of Egyptian Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. brevirostris leaf extracts

Leaves from Eucalvptus camaldulensis var. brevirostris trees, planted in the Nile delta in Egypt, were examined for the antioxidant activity of their nonvolatile compounds. The extracts obtained by ethanol digestion and by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE; CO2 with 15% ethanol) showed the most promising antioxidative activities. In order to identify the most active compounds, both extracts were subjected to a semipreparative reversed-phase HPLC separation, the main fractions were collected, tested for antioxidative activity and analysed by different chromatographical and spectroscopical methods for identification of the most relevant compounds. Gallic and ellagic acid were found to be the prevailing antioxidants in the ethanolic extract. The main two compounds of the SFE extract with antioxidative activity revealed to be flavones. To a high degree of probability they were identified as 5-hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxy flavone and 5-hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxy-8-methyl flavone, respectively. The extracts obtained by ethanoldigestion were dried and administered to rats for toxicity evaluation (up to 3 g/kg body weight). No mortality was observed which indicates a very low lethality of the tested extract.

Optimisation of sample pre-treatment in the HG-AAS selenium analysis

A fast and accurate method of pre-treatment for biological materials in the hydride generation-atomic absorption spectroscopy (HG-AAS) selenium determination is described. All procedures of sample pre-treatment were performed in closed-vessels in a microwave oven. After sample decomposition using a HNO3/H2O2 mixture, the pre-reduction and a 'denitrification' step (reduction of interfering nitrogen intermediates) with amidosulfuric acid were combined. Hence, analysis time and the risk of element losses or the emergence of possible contamination are minimised.

Diagnostic immunoassays for tick-borne encephalitis virus based on recombinant baculovirus protein expression

The baculovirus expression system that utilizes Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus was used to express the highly antigenic envelope protein E of a tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) complex virus, as well as a C-terminally truncated form of protein E (Etr). The recombinant proteins were produced with a histidine-tag at their carboxy-terminus. Protein purification by nickel agarose chromatography resulted in high concentrations of pure Etr protein, but only poor yields of E protein. Therefore, Etr was used to develop a sensitive and specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), as well as an immunoblot assay to detect TBE virus-specific antibodies in sera from immunized human blood donors. Sera from non-vaccinated blood donors were used as controls. The data show that the recombinant TBE virus-specific Etr protein exhibits the antigenic epitopes and conformation necessary for specific antigen-antibody recognition. Thus, the baculovirus expression system provides a cheap and easy method to generate recombinant viral antigens for TBE virus-specific serodiagnosis.

[The Marjolin's ulcer": a malignant and rarely complication after burn trauma of the upper extremity - a case report]

The,Marjolin's ulcer" is a malignant lesion which is developed especially at chronic wounds after burn trauma. The latency from primary trauma to the malignant transformation is about 30 years. The lesion is more aggressive than other squamous cell carcinomas. We report on the combined radiation and surgical therapy of an 65-year-old patient with this lesion on the right hand and regional lymph node metastases. The extensive tissue defect after wide excision was reconstructed with a reversal radial forearm flap.

Mechanisms of immune regulation in Alzheimer's disease: a viewpoint

The immune system may play an important role in the neurodegenerative process in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Complement components, eicosanoids and cytokines are found in cerebral amyloid plaques. These inflammatory proteins may stimulate the amyloid beta (Abeta) production, support its aggregation and increase its cytotoxicity, thus aggrevating the pathology of AD. Abeta may trigger their release from activated microglia and astrocytes which are the main sources of these proteins. However, there are also indications for a protective role of the immune system against the development of AD. Microglial cells have been shown to degrade Abeta and recent evidence suggests a role of autoreactive Abeta-specific T cells in the elimination of the peptide. This mechanism seems to be impaired in the majority of patients with AD. An Abeta-specific immune reaction may thus represent a natural defence mechanism directed against the accumulation of dangerous amyloidogenic substances. Impairment of the immune system and the failure to eliminate a toxic metabolite can be the basis for a chronic non-specific inflammatory process in the brain, as described above. AD is a good example how an immune response may lead to tissue destruction and neuronal loss instead of maintaining the integrity of the body.

Transfected human B cells: a new model to study the functional and immunostimulatory consequences of APP production

The ubiquitously expressed Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein (APP) has raised wide interest in view of its connection with Alzheimer's disease. We now provide a novel extraneuronal cell model in which human Epstein-Barr virus transformed B cells that constitutively hardly produce APP are transfected with wild-type or mutated APP695, harboring the Swedish mutation APPsw, or a dilysine endoplasmic reticulum retrieval motif--APP(ER). This leads to the generation of three types of cells, one with a high secretion of soluble APPs but low levels of intracellular APP, another with a high intracellular APP retention but a low APP secretion, and a third in which APP maturation and secretion are strongly impaired. The suitability of our cell model for various purposes is proven by its usage in different systems. We demonstrate that it is a useful tool for studies on the physiology of APPs and represents a good model system to analyze the cellular mechanisms of Abeta-directed autoimmune reactivity.

TNFalpha plus IFNgamma induce the production of Alzheimer beta-amyloid peptides and decrease the secretion of APPs

The appearance of inflammatory markers associated with amyloid plaques indicates a state of chronic inflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Multiple epidemiological studies also suggest that patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs have a decreased risk of developing AD. Here we present evidence that inflammatory cytokines can alter the metabolism of the beta-amyloid precursor protein (betaAPP). We show that the combination of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interferon gamma triggers the production of beta-amyloid peptides and inhibits the secretion of soluble APPs by human neuronal and extraneuronal cells. The results demonstrate a new mechanism by which inflammatory components can exacerbate the fundamental pathology in AD.

The possible role of the immune system in Alzheimer's disease

Currently, there is little doubt that the immune system plays a role in the neurodegenerative process in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inflammatory proteins such as complement components, enzymes, eicosanoids, and cytokines are found in association with cerebral amyloid plaques and may exacerbate the fundamental pathology of AD, by stimulating Amyloid beta (A beta) production, supporting its aggregation and increasing its cytotoxicity. Activated microglia and astrocytes are the main source of these proteins, and A beta may trigger their release. Interestingly, there are also indications that the immune system may play a protective role against the development of AD. Microglial cells have been shown to degrade A beta, and recent evidence suggests that autoreactive A beta-specific T cells may be relevant to the elimination of the peptide. This mechanism seems, however, impaired in the majority of patients with AD. The immune system seems thus to represent a natural line of defense against the accumulation of dangerous amyloidogenic substances. Impairment of this specific immunological defense mechanism and the failure to eliminate a toxic metabolite can be the basis for a chronic nonspecific inflammatory process in the brain, as described above. AD is a good example how an immune response initially aiming at maintaining the integrity of the body may fail and consequently lead to tissue destruction and neuronal loss.

Kidney function in rats after 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 NX); effort of treatment with vitamin E

In adult female rats various kidney functions were measured 3 weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 NX). The distinct rises in blood urea nitrogen and in renal excretion of proteins indicate the impairment of the kidney. In 5/6 NX rats, the renal excretion of creatinine, glucosaminoglycan, and of p-aminohippurate was diminished. The concentrations of hydroxypyroline and of free hydrogen ions were distinctly increased in urine samples from 5/6 NX rats. The concentration of lipid peroxides was enhanced in kidney tissue whereas 3 weeks after 5/6 NX the concentration of GSH and GSSG in the remnant kidney tissue was unchanged. Long-term administration of vitamin E increased its concentration in plasma, kidney, and liver. Nevertheless, daily treatment with vitamin E (1 or 10 mg/100 g b.w. s.c. for 5 weeks) did not reduce the degree of impairment of kidney function following 5/6 NX.

Sequence analysis and expression of the Penicillium chrysogenum nitrate reductase encoding gene (niaD)

The nitrate reductase gene (niaD) of the filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum encodes a protein of 864 amino acids. The derived protein sequence shows 78% and 72% sequence identity to the corresponding Aspergillus niger and A. nidulans proteins, respectively. The coding region of the Penicillium gene is interrupted by six small introns, as deduced by comparison with the niaD sequences of A. niger and A. nidulans, whereby the positions of the introns are perfectly conserved between these three fungal genes. Northern blot analysis indicated a 2.8 kb transcript and showed that expression of this gene is controlled at the level of mRNA accumulation depending on both induction by nitrate and nitrogen metabolite derepression. Induction of transcription of niaD was found to be paralleled by expression of the major nitrogen regulatory gene nre.

[Detection of treatment of chicken breast with ionized rays and gradation of radiation dosage with the help of headspace gas chromatography and discriminant analysis evaluation]

Chicken breast was irradiated with doses of 3, 5, and 7 kGy. Headspace gas chromatographical analysis demonstrated the tendency that the amounts of volatile compounds (mainly pentanal, hexanal and heptanal) are higher in irradiated samples in comparison with non irradiated. Statistical evaluation of the gas chromatograms by discriminant analysis enabled the detection of irradiation. Unknown samples could be classified in the groups "un-irradiated" or "irradiated" in most cases.

Cloning, structural organization and regulation of expression of the Penicillium chrysogenum paf gene encoding an abundantly secreted protein with antifungal activity

An abundantly secreted, highly basic 12-kDa protein (PAF) was purified from the culture medium of Penicillium chrysogenum (Pc). Based on the N-terminal amino acid (aa) sequence of the protein, an oligodeoxyribonucleotide probe was derived and used for amplification of the encoding cDNA by PCR. This cDNA fragment encodes a Cys-rich preproprotein of 92 aa which appears to be processed to a mature product of 55 aa. The deduced aa sequence of the preproprotein reveals 42.6% identity to an antifungal protein (AFP) of Aspergillus giganteus. Agar diffusion tests confirmed that the Pc protein exhibits antifungal activity. In order to investigate the promoter region and the structural organization of the paf gene, a genomic 6-kb fragment was isolated and partially sequenced. Comparison of the nucleotide sequence of the genomic fragment and the cDNA clone revealed the presence of a coding region of 279 bp which is interrupted by two introns of 76 and 68 bp in length. In the promoter region, a typical TATA box, a motif resembling the fungal carbon catabolite repression element, as well as several putative GATA factor binding motifs, were found. Northern blot analysis indicated that the regulation of paf expression occurs at the level of mRNA transcription and is under control of carbon catabolite and nitrogen metabolite repression regulatory circuits.

Sequence and structure of Penicillium chrysogenum phoG, homologous to an acid phosphatase-encoding gene of Aspergillus nidulans

A Penicillium chrysogenum (Pc) gene (phoG), homologous to an Aspergillus nidulans (An) gene which confers phosphate-non-repressible acid phosphatase (APase) activity, has been cloned and sequenced. The 2.9-kb genomic sequence corresponds to two ORFs of 149 and 1630 bp encoding a protein of 593 amino acids (aa). As verified by cDNA sequencing, the coding region is interrupted by an 85-bp intron. The deduced aa sequence of phoG reveals 61% aa identity to the translated long ORF of the An APase-encoding gene. Northern blot analysis indicated a 2.3-kb transcript in approximately equivalent amount in mycelia grown under different phosphate concentrations.

Glutathione status, lipid peroxidation and kidney function in streptozotocin diabetic rats

In adult female rats diabetic nephropathy was induced by i.v. administration of streptozotocin (6 mg/100 g b.w.). The animals survive for 3 weeks when very low daily doses of insulin (0.3 IU/animal) are administered. High blood urea concentrations and distinct proteinuria indicate the impairment of kidney function in streptozotocin diabetic rats. Streptozotocin induces mild polyuria and increased renal excretion of potassium; there is also an increase in renal excretion of administered p-aminohippurate. Three weeks after administration of streptozotocin the formation of lipid peroxides is increased in the kidney. At this time glutathione content (GSH, GSSG) is unchanged in liver and kidney of streptozotocin diabetic rats. Impairment of kidney function in streptozotocin diabetic rats can be prevented by daily supplementation with sufficient doses of insulin (about 3 IU/animal).

Experimental evidence that the physiological position of the liver within the circulation is not a major determinant of zonation of gene expression

Many enzymes are distributed heterogeneously within the liver lobule. The factors that play a determining role in the establishment and maintenance of these heterogeneous expression patterns have not yet been identified. To investigate whether the composition of the afferent hepatic blood plays a crucial role in the maintenance of the heterogeneity of gene expression of the parenchymal cells within the liver lobule, we changed the source of the afferent hepatic blood by microsurgical techniques. Three different groups of experimental animals were studied: rats with livers that are perfused with portal blood only (ligation of the hepatic artery), with caval blood only (portocaval transposition and ligation of the hepatic artery) and arterial blood only (portocaval shunt, arterialization of the distal end of the portal vein and ligation of the hepatic artery). To study differences in gene expression patterns, we chose enzymes that have a heterogeneous expression pattern within the liver lobule: the periportally located enzymes carbamoylphosphate synthase, succinate dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and the pericentrally located enzymes glutamine synthase, glutamate dehydrogenase and NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase. To eliminate the potential interference of the long half-lives of some of these proteins on the interpretation of the results, we also studied the distribution of the mRNAs of carbamoylphosphate synthase, glutamine synthase, glutamate dehydrogenase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase. The animals were studied 2 wk after the operations. On the basis of their changes in body weight the animals were in steady state for at least a week. The patterns of gene expression of the enzymes studied did not change, regardless of the source of the altered afferent hepatic blood. The changes in gene expression that were observed in animals that did not regain their preoperative weight were shown to be caused by a limited intake of food. This study demonstrates that the physiological position of the liver within the circulation (i.e., between the gastrointestinal tract and the systemic circulation) is not as critical as is often stated and is certainly not essential for the maintenance of liver cell heterogeneity. The data suggest that the direction of the bloodstream (i.e., the existence of an upstream and a downstream compartment) is a major determinant of zonation of gene expression.

Short-term biventricular circulatory support in the regionally stunned pig myocardium

Mechanical circulatory support is only meaningful when reversible myocardial damage exists. Prompt biventricular assistance during reperfusion for six hours was tried in the regionally sublethally injured pig myocardium which has perspective for recovery. Postmortem tissue was examined with a quickly performed histochemical technique for tissue viability. Animals underwent five coronary occlusions (5 min occlusion/10 min reperfusion). Postischemic systolic wall thickening, observed by direct echocardiography, fell about 50% (p < 0.05 vs base line) before treatment which paralleled cardiac inosine and lactate efflux. Biventricular unloading (n = 5) resulted in contractile recovery to 94 +/- 19% (p < 0.05 vs stunning), untreated pigs remained depressed (33 +/- 12%, n = 5). During circulatory support the arterial lactate levels rose three-fold, concomitant with a drop in pH of 0.2 units (p < 0.05). Post-mortem histochemistry showed scattered areas with decreased activities of cytoplasmic lactate dehydrogenase and mitochondrial beta-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, irrespective of treatment. Transmission electron microscopy revealed irreversible damage to mitochondria in depleted areas in contrast to areas where enzyme activity was present. We conclude that prompt volume unloading during reperfusion accelerated contractile recovery of sublethally postischemic myocardium.

In situ kinetic measurements of D-amino acid oxidase in rat liver with respect to its substrate specificity

D-Amino acid oxidase activity was demonstrated in peroxisomes of rat liver using unfixed cryostat sections and a histochemical technique using cerium ions as capture reagent for hydrogen peroxide and diaminobenzidine, cobalt ions and exogenous hydrogen peroxide to visualize the final reaction product for light microscopical analysis. Cytophotometric analysis of liver sections revealed similar zero-order reaction velocities of D-amino acid oxidase with activity twice as high in periportal areas as in pericentral areas of liver lobuli when using either D-proline or D,L-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid as substrates. On the other hand, a 4-5 times higher KM value was found for D-proline than for D,L-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid. The KM values in periportal and pericentral areas were similar for each substrate. These findings support the suggestion that the physiological substrate for D-amino acid oxidase may be D,L-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid, the adduct of cysteamine and glyoxylic acid. D-Amino acid oxidase may play a role in vivo in the production of oxalate which may participate in metabolic control processes as an intracellular messenger molecule.