Production of prompt charmonia in e(+)e(-) annihilation at square root of s approximately equals 0.6 GeV

The production of prompt J/psi, psi(2S), chi(c1), and chi(c2) is studied using a 32.4 fb(-1) data sample collected with the Belle detector at Upsilon(4S) and at 60 MeV below the resonance. The yield of prompt J/psi mesons in the Upsilon(4S) sample is compatible with that of continuum production; we set an upper limit B(Upsilon(4S)-->J/psiX) < 1.9 x 10(-4) at the 95% confidence level, and find sigma(e(+)e(-)-->J/psiX) = 1.47 plus/minus 0.10 plus/minus 0.13 pb. The cross sections for prompt psi(2S) and direct J/psi are measured. The J/psi momentum spectrum, production angle distribution, and polarization are studied.

Observation of the color-suppressed decay B( 0)-->D(0)pi(0)

We report the first observation of color-suppressed B( 0)-->D(0)pi(0), D(*0)pi(0), D0eta, and D0omega decays, and evidence for B( 0)-->D(*0)eta and D(*0)omega. The branching fractions are B(B( 0)-->D0pi(0)) = (3.1 +/- 0.4 +/- 0.5)x10(-4), B(B( 0) -->D(*0)pi(0)) = (2.7(+0.8+0.5)(-0.7-0.6))x10(-4), B(B( 0) --> D0eta) = (1.4(+0.5)(-0.4) +/- 0.3)x10(-4), B(B( 0) --> D0omega) = (1.8 +/- 0.5(+0.4)(-0.3))x10(-4), and we set 90% confidence level upper limits of B(B( 0) --> D(*0)eta)<4.6 x 10(-4) and B(B( 0)-->D(*0)omega)<7.9 x 10(-4). The analysis is based on a data sample of 21.3 fb(-1) collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance by the Belle detector at the KEKB e(+)e(-) collider.

Observation of B+ --> chi(c0)K+

Using a sample of 31.3x10(6) BB pairs collected with the Belle detector at the Upsilon(4S) resonance, we make the first observation of the charged B meson decay to chi(c0) and a charged kaon. The measured branching fraction is B(B+-->chi(c0)K+) = (6.0(+2.1)(-1.8)+/-1.1)x10(-4), where the first error is statistical, and the second is systematic.

Observation of the decay B --> Kl+l-

We report a search for the flavor-changing neutral current decay B-->K(*)l+l- using a 29.1 fb(-1) data sample accumulated at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e- storage ring. We observe the decay process B-->Kl+l-(l = e, mu), for the first time, with a branching fraction of B(B-->Kl+l-) = (0.75(+0.25)(-0.21)+/-0.09)x10(-6).

Discovery of small-molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 through structure-based computer screening

Bcl-2 belongs to a growing family of proteins which regulates programmed cell death (apoptosis). Overexpression of Bcl-2 has been observed in 70% of breast cancer, 30-60% of prostate cancer, 80% of B-cell lymphomas, 90% of colorectal adenocarcinomas, and many other forms of cancer. Thereby, Bcl-2 is an attractive new anti-cancer target. Herein, we describe the discovery of novel classes of small-molecule inhibitors targeted at the BH3 binding pocket in Bcl-2. The three-dimensional (3D) structure of Bcl-2 has been modeled on the basis of a high-resolution NMR solution structure of Bcl-X(L), which shares a high sequence homology with Bcl-2. A structure-based computer screening approach has been employed to search the National Cancer Institute 3D database of 206 876 organic compounds to identify potential Bcl-2 small-molecule inhibitors that bind to the BH3 binding site of Bcl-2. These potential Bcl-2 small-molecule inhibitors were first tested in an in vitro binding assay for their potency in inhibition of the binding of a Bak BH3 peptide to Bcl-2. Thirty-five potential inhibitors were tested in this binding assay, and seven of them were found to have a binding affinity (IC(50) value) from 1.6 to 14.0 microM. The anti-proliferative activity of these seven active compounds has been tested using a human myeloid leukemia cell line, HL-60, which expresses the highest level of Bcl-2 protein among all the cancer cell lines examined. Compound 6 was the most potent compound and had an IC(50) value of 4 microM in inhibition of cell growth using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Five other compounds had moderate activity in inhibition of cell growth. Compound 6 was further evaluated for its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. It was found that 6 induces apoptosis in cancer cells with high Bcl-2 expression and its potency correlates with the Bcl-2 expression level in cancer cells. Furthermore, using NMR methods, we conclusively demonstrated that 6 binds to the BH3 binding site in Bcl-X(L). Our results showed that small-molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 such as 6 modulate the biological function of Bcl-2, and induce apoptosis in cancer cells with high Bcl-2 expression, while they have little effect on cancer cells with low or undetectable levels of Bcl-2 expression. Therefore, compound 6 can be used as a valuable pharmacological tool to elucidate the function of Bcl-2 and also serves as a novel lead compound for further design and optimization. Our results suggest that the structure-based computer screening strategy employed in the study is effective for identifying novel, structurally diverse, nonpeptide small-molecule inhibitors that target the BH3 binding site of Bcl-2.

Drosophila-raf acts to elaborate dorsoventral pattern in the ectoderm of developing embryos

In the early Drosophila embryo the activity of the EGF-receptor (Egfr) is required to instruct cells to adopt a ventral neuroectodermal fate. Using a gain-of-function mutation we showed that D-raf acts to transmit this and other late-acting embryonic Egfr signals. A novel role for D-raf was also identified in lateral cell development using partial loss-of-function D-raf mutations. Thus, we provide evidence that zygotic D-raf acts to specify cell fates in two distinct pathways that generate dorsoventral pattern within the ectoderm. These functional requirements for D-raf activity occur subsequent to its maternal role in organizing the anterioposterior axis. The consequences of eliminating key D-raf regulatory domains and specific serine residues in the transmission of Egfr and lateral epidermal signals were also addressed here.

Observation of B --> J/psi K(1)(1270)

We report the first observation of the exclusive decay process B-->J/psi K(1)(1270) using a sample of 11.2M BB macro meson pairs collected in the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric energy e(+)e(-) collider. We measure branching fractions of B[B(0)-->J/psi K(0)(1)(1270)] = (1.30+/-0.34+/-0.32) x 10(-3) and B[B(+)-->J/psi K(+)(1)(1270)] = (1.80+/-0.34+/-0.39) x 10(-3), where the first error is statistical and the second is systematic. These modes constitute approximately 15% of the total number of B-->J/psi X decays. No evidence is seen for B-->J/psi K(1)(1400) and we set an upper limit for this branching fraction.

Analysis of recombinant Phex: an endopeptidase in search of a substrate

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is caused by inactivating mutations of Phex, a phosphate-regulating endopeptidase. Further advances in our knowledge of the pathogenesis of XLH require identification of the biological function of Phex and its physiologically relevant substrates. We evaluated several potential substrates using mouse recombinant wild-type Phex proteins (rPhex-WT) and inactive mutant Phex proteins (rPhex-3'M) lacking the COOH-terminal catalytic domain as controls. By Western blot analysis, we demonstrated that Phex is a membrane-bound 100-kDa glycosylated monomer. Neither casein, a substrate for the related endopeptidase thermolysin, human stanniocalcin 1 (hSTC-1), an osteoblast-derived phosphate-regulating factor, nor FGF-23 peptide (amino acid 172-186), comprising the region mutated in autosomal dominant hypophosphatemia, was cleaved by rPhex-WT. In addition, membranes expressing rPhex-WT, rPhex-3'M, and the empty vector hydrolyzed parathyroid hormone-(1-34), indicating the lack of Phex-specific cleavage of parathyroid hormone. In contrast, rPhex-WT did display an EDTA-dependent cleavage of the neutral endopeptidase substrate [Leu]enkephalin. Further studies with wild-type and mutant rPhex proteins should permit the identification of physiologically relevant substrates involved in the pathogenesis of XLH.

Observation of Cabibbo suppressed B --> D(*)K- decays at Belle

We report observations of the Cabibbo suppressed decays B-->D((*))K- using a 10.4 fb(-1) data sample accumulated at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e(+)e(-) storage ring. We find that the ratios of Cabibbo suppressed to Cabibbo favored branching fractions are B(B--->D0K-)/B(B--->D0pi(-)) = 0.079+/-0.009+/-0.006, B(B(0)-->D+K-)/B(B(0)-->D+pi(-)) = 0.068+/-0.015+/-0.007, B(B--->D(*0)K-)/B(B--->D(*0)pi(-)) = 0.078+/-0.019+/-0.009, and B(B(0)-->D(*+)K-)/B(B(0)-->D(*+)pi(-)) = 0.074+/-0.015+/-0.006. These are the first observations of the B-->D+K-, D(*0)K-, and D(*+)K- decay processes.

Cloning and characterization of the proximal murine Phex promoter

Phex is an endopetidase that regulates systemic phosphate homeostasis. We investigated Phex gene transcription by cloning and performing functional analysis of the 2736 bp of the 5' flanking region of the mouse Phex gene containing its promoter. We identified a transcription start site, a consensus TATA-box, and multiple potential cis-acting regulator elements. To determine whether the promoter directs cell-type restricted Phex expression, we transfected full-length and 5'-deleted Phex luciferase reporter constructs into various cell lines. Phex-expressing C5.18 chondrocytes displayed the highest activity of the transfected Phex promoter constructs compared with non-Phex-expressing COS-7 cells, whereas promoter activity was intermediate in ROS 17/2.8 osteoblasts and maturation stage-dependent in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Analysis of sequential 5'-deletion mutants of the Phex promoter in ROS 17/2.8 cells revealed bimodal activity, suggesting that both positive and negative cis-acting regions may be present. The chondrogenic factor SOX9 markedly stimulated Phex promoter activity, whereas Cbfa1, PTH, and 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect. Our findings are consistent with the predominant expression of Phex in bone and cartilage. Additional studies will be needed to confirm the regulatory regions in the Phex promoter that function in a cell-restricted manner.

Observation of large CP violation in the neutral B meson system

We present a measurement of the standard model CP violation parameter sin2 phi(1) based on a 29.1 fb(-1) data sample collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider. One neutral B meson is fully reconstructed as a J/psi K(S), psi(2S)K(S), chi(c1)K(S), eta(c)K(S), J/psi K(L), or J/psi K(*0) decay and the flavor of the accompanying B meson is identified from its decay products. From the asymmetry in the distribution of the time intervals between the two B meson decay points, we determine sin2 phi(1) = 0.99+/-0.14(stat)+/-0.06(syst). We conclude that we have observed CP violation in the neutral B meson system.

[Analysis of immunophenotype of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells in human umbilical cord blood with flow cytometry and its significance]

OBJECTIVE

To study the difference of immunophenotype of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) between human umbilical cord blood(UCB) and bone marrow(BM).

METHODS

The expression of CD antigens and cell adhesion molecules on HSPCs in 38 UCB and 10 cases BM were investigated with monoclonal antibodies and double immunofluorescence using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

1. The CD34+ cell population in nucleated cells of UCB was similar to that of BM, being about 0.5%; 2. The frequencies of CD34+CD38-, CD34+HLA-DR- and CD34+H-CAM+ (CD44+) cells in UCB CD34+ cells were higher, while the frequencies of CD34+CD13+ and CD34+CD19+ cells in UCB were lower than that in BM.

CONCLUSION

The total number of CD34+ cells in UCB and BM was very similar. However, there was a higher proportion of more primary HSPCs in UCB, which was able to reconstitute hematopoiesis as an potential source of HSPCs, the proportion of relatively mature HSPCs (CD34+ CD19+ and CD34+CD13+) were less in UCB than in BM, which probably accounted for the relatively slow haematopoietic reconstitution following UCB transplantation.

[The sensitized reaction of non-ionic microemulsion on the determination of trace Ni(II) by fluorescence quenching method with salicyfluorone]

A new selective and sensitive spectrofluorimetric method in non-ionic microemulsion for the determination of trace Ni(II) in water has been developed. This method is based on the quenching of fluorescence of Triton X-100/n-C5H11OH/n-C9H20/H2O microemulsion system due to the formation of complex Ni(II)-SAF-Triton X-100. The results show that there is a linear relationship in the rang of 0.5-2.5 ng.25 mL-1 for Ni(II). The sensitivity in microemulsion is higher than that in micelle. Satisfactory results are obtained for Ni(II) in water sample.

[The apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism in children with steroid-resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To study apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism in children with steroid- resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SRINS).

METHODS

Sixty children with SRINS (including 9 children with focalsclerosing glomerulonephritis) were observed in comparison with 80 age-sex-matched healthy children. Seven lipoprote in metabolism parameters including serum total-cholesterol(TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein AI(apoAI), apolipoprotein B (apoB), lipoprotein (a)[Lp (a)] were detected by enzyme method, and single-strand conformation polymorphism(PCR-SSCP) was used to determine the apoE genotypes in the two groups.

RESULTS

Serum TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, apoAI, apoB, Lp(a) in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the healthy controls (P<0.01). After 6 months, the levels of serum TC, TG, LDL-C,apoB,Lp(a) were 81.25%, 78.13%, 84.38%, 87.50% and 78.13% respectively in 32 SRINS cases of the observation group. The apo epsilon 2 allele gene frequence was higher in the observation group than in the controls (11.66% vs 5.00%, P<0.05). The apo apsilon 2 allele gene frequence in the cases of focalsclerosing glomerulonephritis was significantly higher than that in the controls (22.22% vs 5.00%, P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

The above results indicate the obvious and long term abnormalities of serum lipoprotein metabolism in the children with SRINS. The apo apsilon 2 allele gene frequence is higher in the children with SRINS. There are risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases in the children with SRINS. The antilipemic drugs should be considered in use for the children with SRINS.

The Caenorhabditis elegans hif-1 gene encodes a bHLH-PAS protein that is required for adaptation to hypoxia

Hypoxia-inducible factor, a heterodimeric transcription complex, regulates cellular and systemic responses to low oxygen levels (hypoxia) during normal mammalian development or tumor progression. Here, we present evidence that a similar complex mediates response to hypoxia in Caenorhabditis elegans. This complex consists of HIF-1 and AHA-1, which are encoded by C. elegans homologs of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) alpha and beta subunits, respectively. hif-1 mutants exhibit no severe defects under standard laboratory conditions, but they are unable to adapt to hypoxia. Although wild-type animals can survive and reproduce in 1% oxygen, the majority of hif-1-defective animals die in these conditions. We show that the expression of an HIF-1:green fluorescent protein fusion protein is induced by hypoxia and is subsequently reduced upon reoxygenation. Both hif-1 and aha-1 are expressed in most cell types, and the gene products can be coimmunoprecipitated. We conclude that the mechanisms of hypoxia signaling are likely conserved among metazoans. Additionally, we find that nuclear localization of AHA-1 is disrupted in an hif-1 mutant. This finding suggests that heterodimerization may be a prerequisite for efficient nuclear translocation of AHA-1.

N-terminal carboxyl and tetrazole-containing amides as adjuvants to Grb2 SH2 domain ligand binding

High affinity binding of peptides to Src homology 2 (SH2) domains, often requires the presence of phosphotyrosyl (pTyr) or pTyr-mimicking moieties in the N-terminal position of the binding ligand. Several reports have shown that N(alpha)-acylation of the critical pTyr residue can result in increased SH2 domain binding potency. For Grb2 SH2 domains which recognize pTyr-Xxx-Asn-NH(2) motifs, significant potency enhancement can be incurred by N(alpha)-(3-amino)Z derivatization of tripeptides such as pTyr-Ile-Asn-NH(2). Using ligands based on the high affinity pY-Ac(6)c-Asn-(naphthylpropylamide) motif, (where Ac(6)c=1-aminocyclohexanecarboxylic acid), additional reports have shown moderate potentiating effects of N(alpha)-oxalyl derivatization. The current study examined variations of the N(alpha)-oxalyl theme in the context of a Xxx-Ac(6)c-Asn-(naphthylpropylamide) platform, where Xxx=the hydrolytically stable pTyr mimetics phosphonomethyl phenylalanine (Pmp) or carboxymethyl phenylalanine (Cmf). The effects of N(alpha)-(3-amino)Z derivatization were also investigated for this platform, to ascertain whether the large binding enhancement reported for tripeptides such as pTyr-Ile-Asn-NH(2) could be observed. In ELISA-based extracellular Grb2 SH2 domain binding assays, it was found for the Pmp-based series, that extending the oxalyl carboxyl out by one methylene unit or replacing carboxyl functionality with a tetrazole isostere, resulted in binding potency greater than the parent N(alpha)-acetyl-containing compound, with enhancement approximating that observed for the N(alpha)-oxalyl derivative. When Cmf was used as the pTyr mimetic, only modest differences in IC(50) values were observed for the series. Examination of the N(alpha)-(3-amino)Z derivatized Pmp-Ac(6)c-Asn-(naphthylpropylamide), showed that binding affinity was reduced relative to the parent N(alpha)-acetyl analogue, in contrast to the reported significant enhancement of affinity observed with other peptide ligands. Treatment of MDA-453 tumor cells, which are mitogenically driven through erbB-2 tyrosine kinase-dependent pathways, with Pmp-containing inhibitors resulted in growth inhibition, with the N(alpha)-oxalyl and N(alpha)-malonyl-containing compounds exhibiting IC(50) values (4.3 and 4.6 microM, respectively) approximately five-fold lower than the parent N(alpha)-acetyl-containing compound. Tetrazole and N(alpha)-(3-amino)Z-containing inhibitors were from two- to four-fold less potent than these latter analogues in the growth inhibition assays.

Measurement of B(0)(d)-B_(0)(d) mixing rate from the time evolution of dilepton events at the upsilon(4S)

We report a determination of the B(0)(d)-&B_(0)(d) mixing parameter Deltam(d) based on the time evolution of dilepton yields in Upsilon(4S) decays. The measurement is based on a 5.9 fb(-1) data sample collected by the Belle detector at KEKB. The proper-time difference distributions for same-sign and opposite-sign dilepton events are simultaneously fitted to an expression containing Deltam(d) as a free parameter. Using both muons and electrons, we obtain Deltam(d) = 0.463+/-0.008 (stat)+/-0.016 (syst) ps(-1). This is the first determination of Deltam(d) from time evolution measurements at the Upsilon(4S). We also place limits on possible CPT violations.

Characterization of the radical product formed from the reaction of nitric oxide with the spin trap 3,5-dibromo-4-nitrosobenzene sulfonate

Previously, 3,5-dibromo-4-nitrosobenzene sulfonate (DBNBS) has been used in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometry to trap nitric oxide (NO(*)). The reaction between DBNBS and NO(*) yields a radical product which gives rise to an EPR signal consisting of three lines with an A(N) = 0.96 mT, but the structure of this product is unknown. A two-stage high-performance liquid chromatography fractionation was performed to isolate the radical product from the other components in the DBNBS/NO(*) reaction mixture. The fractions containing the radical product were identified by the presence of the three-line EPR signal, and then these fractions were analyzed by negative ion fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS). Collectively, the FAB-MS data suggested that the radical product is the monosodium electrostatic complex with the dianion, bis(2,6-dibromo-4-sulfophenyl) nitroxyl. Analysis of the Gaussian and Lorentzian linewidths of the EPR signal suggested that bis(2,6-dibromo-4-sulfophenyl) nitroxyl molecules may group together to form micelles. Further studies also indicated that significant amounts of nitrogen and nitrate were produced during the reaction between DBNBS and NO(*). A reaction scheme consistent with these results is presented.

[The structures and characteristic infrared spectra of beta-DDB and its derivatives]

The characteristic infrared bands of the 3, 4-methylenedioxy-5-methoxybenzoate, 6-Br-3, 4-methylenedioxy-5-methoxybenzoate, beta-DDB (6, 6'-dimethoxy-4, 5, 4', 5'-dimethylenedioxy-2, 2'-dimethoxycarbonylbiphenyl) and its five derivatives were assigned. The effects of the substituents of these compounds on their IR data were discussed. The results indicated the varying of ester alkyl mainly influences the C=O double band stretching mode, but has little effects on the C=C double band stretching mode of the phenyl. When the H atom was substituted by other substituents, the absorptions of the C=O and C=C both changed.

Measurement of the CP violation parameter sin2 phi(1) in B(0)(d) meson decays

We present a measurement of the standard model CP violation parameter sin2 phi(1) (also known as sin2beta) based on a 10.5 fb(-1) data sample collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric e(+)e(-) collider. One neutral B meson is reconstructed in the J/psiK(S), psi(2S)K(S), chi(c1)K(S), eta(c)K(S), J/psiK(L), or J/psipi(0) CP-eigenstate decay channel and the flavor of the accompanying B meson is identified from its charged particle decay products. From the asymmetry in the distribution of the time interval between the two B-meson decay points, we determine sin2 phi(1) = 0.58(+0.32)(-0.34)(stat)+0.09-0.10(syst).

Bioactivities of culture supernatants from retroviral packaging cells carrying the mouse Fas ligand gene

The bioactivities of culture supernatants from retroviral packaging cells carrying the mouse Fas ligand (mFasL) gene was investigated. FasLcDNA was cloned into PLXIN with an internal ribosome entry site to link two cistrons through gene recombination technology, PLXIN and the recombinant vector PLFIN were separately transfected into PA317 retrovirus packing cell line by lipofectamine 2000, and the resistant clones were selected with G418 selective medium. The integration of genome DNA was assayed by genomic DNA PCR. NIH3T3 cells were transduced by the culture supernatants from PA317 carrying the mFasLcDNA gene, and were selected with G418 selective medium, so as to select the PLFIN-PA317 clone capable of producing higher titer of supernatants. The levels of mFasL protein on NIH3T3 cells membrane were assayed by flow cytometry (FCM). The biological activity of mFasL on NIH3T3 cells membrane was investigated by the inducing apoptosis of Fas+ Yac-1 cells co-cultured with NIH3T3 cells expressing Fas ligand. To explore the direct mFasL cytotoxicity of culture supernatants from retroviral packaging cells carrying the mFasL gene, the culture supernatants from PLFIN-PA317 and PLXIN-PA317 were separately co-cultured with Yac-1 cells in parallel. The recombinant PLFIN was successfully constructed. The highest titer of supernatants from twelve resistant clones was 8.5 x 10(5) colony-forming-unit (CFU)/ml. The NIH3T3 cells transfected by above supernatants had a higher level of mFasL (53.81 +/- 6.9%), and significantly induced the apoptosis of Fas+ Yac-1 cells (56.78 +/- 4.5%), as both were cocultured for 5 h at 1:1 ratio, whereas it is 7.08 +/- 3.4% in control group (P < 0.01). Supernatant from PLFIN-PA317 could also directly induce the apoptosis of Yac-1 within 5 h of incubation. Thus, the culture supernatants from PLFIN-PA317 possessed both infectivity and cytotoxicity of mFasL.

Chemical characteristics and relative bioavailability of supplemental organic copper sources for poultry

Five commercially available organic Cu products and reagent-grade CuSO4 x 5H2O (Cu Sulf) were evaluated by polarographic analysis and solubility in 0.1 M K2HPO4-KH2PO4 buffer (pH 5), 0.2 M HCl-KCl buffer (pH 2), or deionized water. Fractions from these solubility tests were evaluated by gel filtration chromatography for structural integrity. The organic sources were Cu lysine complex (Cu Lys), Cu amino acid chelate (Cu AA), Cu proteinate A (Cu ProA), Cu proteinate B (Cu ProB), and Cu proteinate C (Cu ProC). Separation of peaks in the chromatograms for the soluble Cu fraction from deionized water indicated that 77, 31, 69, 94, and 16% of the Cu remained chelated for the above sources, respectively. Two experiments were conducted to estimate the relative bioavailability of Cu from the organic Cu supplements for chicks when added at high dietary concentrations to practical corn-soybean meal diets. Liver Cu concentration increased (P < 0.0001) as dietary Cu increased in both experiments. When Cu Sulf was assigned a value of 100% as the standard, linear regression slope ratios of log10 liver Cu concentration regressed on added dietary Cu concentration gave estimated relative bioavailability values of 124 +/- 5.1, 122 +/- 5.3, and 111 +/- 6.0 for Cu Lys, Cu AA, and Cu ProC, respectively, in Exp. 1. The bioavailability estimates for Cu Lys and Cu AA were greater (P < 0.05) than that for Cu Sulf. Values in Exp. 2 were 111 +/- 7.6, 109 +/- 8.4, and 105 +/- 7.5 for Cu Lys, Cu ProA, and Cu ProB, respectively, and all sources were similar in value for chicks. Solubility of Cu in pH 2 buffer provided the best prediction of bioavailability (r2 = 0.924). Other indicators of chelation integrity and solubility had little value as predictors of bioavailability (r2 < or = 0.445).

Chemical characteristics and relative bioavailability of supplemental organic zinc sources for poultry and ruminants

Eight commercially available organic Zn products and reagent-grade ZnSO4 x 7H2O (Zn Sulf) were evaluated by polarographic analysis, and solubility in .1 M K2HPO4-KH2PO4 buffer (pH 5), .2 M HCl-KCl buffer (pH 2), and deionized water. Fractions from these solubility tests were evaluated by gel filtration chromatography for structural integrity. Degree of chelation was generally positively related to chelation effectiveness determined by polarography. The organic sources were Zn methionine complex A (Zn MetA), Zn methionine complex B (Zn MetB), Zn polysaccharide complex (Zn Poly), Zn lysine complex (Zn Lys), Zn amino acid chelate (Zn AA), Zn proteinate A (Zn ProA), Zn proteinate B (Zn ProB), and Zn proteinate C (Zn ProC). Three experiments were conducted to estimate the relative bioavailability of Zn from the organic Zn supplements for chicks and lambs when added at high dietary levels to practical diets. Bone Zn concentration increased (P < .001) as dietary Zn increased in both experiments. When Zn Sulf was assigned a value of 100% as the standard, multiple linear regression slope ratios of bone Zn from chicks fed 3 wk regressed on dietary Zn intake gave estimated relative bioavailability values of 83 +/- 14.6 and 139 +/- 16.9 for Zn AA and Zn ProA, respectively, in Exp. 1 and 94 +/- 11.6, 99 +/- 8.8, and 108 +/- 11.4 for Zn Poly, Zn ProB, and Zn ProC, respectively, in Exp. 2. In Exp. 3, 42 lambs were fed diets containing Zn Sulf, Zn ProA, Zn AA, or Zn MetB for 21 d. Based on multiple linear regression slope ratios of liver, kidney, and pancreas Zn and liver metallothionein concentrations on added dietary Zn, bioavailability estimates relative to 100% for Zn Sulf were 130, 110, and 113 for Zn ProA, Zn AA, and Zn MetB, respectively. Except for Zn ProA, which was greater, the organic Zn supplements had bioavailability values similar to that of Zn Sulf for chicks and lambs. Bioavailability of organic Zn products was inversely related to solubility of Zn in pH 5 buffer in chicks (r2 = .91) and pH 2 buffer in lambs (r2 = .91), but not to an estimate of degree of chelation.

Time-dependent inhibition of immune complex-induced lung injury by catalase: relationship to alterations in macrophage and neutrophil matrix metalloproteinase elaboration

Rats were subjected to acute lung injury by the intra-alveolar formation of IgG immune complexes of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and anti-BSA. In this model of injury, complement activation occurs and large numbers of neutrophils invade the interstitium and alveolar space. In the present study, animals were treated with intratracheal catalase concomitantly with anti-BSA or after a lag period of 5-120 min. Catalase treatment at time-zero or at 5 min post injury failed to prevent lung injury as indicated by permeability change, histological features, and neutrophil influx. However, treatment after a delay of 15-30 min (but not 120 min) afforded substantial protection. Consistent with past findings [19], lung injury was accompanied by an accumulation of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. There was a strong correlation between inhibition of injury and reduction in MMP-9 levels. In vitro studies conducted in parallel revealed that unstimulated alveolar macrophages did not produce measurable MMP-9, while there was a large induction following exposure to the same immune complexes that initiated injury in vivo. MMP-2 was also slightly upregulated under the same conditions. Concomitant treatment with catalase greatly inhibited MMP-9 production by macrophages in response to immune complexes, but this treatment had little effect on basal production of either MMP-9 or MMP-2 by macrophage. The same concentration of catalase that suppressed MMP-9 elaboration also inhibited the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha. In contrast, when neutrophils were treated with catalase and then exposed to immune complexes, the antioxidant failed to prevent the release of either MMP-2 or MMP-9. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that antioxidant treatment interferes with elaboration of MMPs by alveolar macrophages. Protection against lung injury is correlated with reduction in MMP levels in the BAL fluid.

An abundant DNA binding protein from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus shibatae affects DNA supercoiling in a temperature-dependent fashion

The DNA binding protein Ssh10b, a member of the Sac10b family, has been purified from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus shibatae. Ssh10b constitutes about 4% of the cellular protein. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that Ssh10b first bound a double-stranded DNA fragment with an estimated binding size of approximately approximately 12 bp, forming distinct shifts, until the DNA was coated with the protein. Binding of more Ssh10b resulted in the formation of smears of lower mobilities. The migration pattern of the smearing Ssh10b-DNA complexes was affected by temperature, whereas that of complexes associated with the distinct shifts was not. Interestingly, Ssh10b was capable of constraining negative DNA supercoils in a temperature-dependent fashion. While the ability of the protein to constrain supercoils was weak at 25 degrees C, it was enhanced substantially at 45 degrees C or higher temperatures (up to 80 degrees C). Taken together, our data suggest that archaeal proteins of the Sac10b family may affect the topology of chromosomal DNA in thermophilic archaea at their growth temperatures.

Origin of the high piezoelectric response in PbZr1-xTixO3

High resolution x-ray powder diffraction measurements on poled PbZr1-xTixO3 (PZT) ceramic samples close to the rhombohedral-tetragonal phase boundary (the so-called morphotropic phase boundary) have shown that for both rhombohedral and tetragonal compositions the piezoelectric elongation of the unit cell does not occur along the polar directions but along those directions associated with the monoclinic distortion. This work provides the first direct evidence for the origin of the very high piezoelectricity in PZT.

[Sarcomatoid carcinoma in breast]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the distinctive pathomorphological features of sarcomatoid carcinoma (SC) in mammary gland as well as its diagnosis and differential diagnosis.

METHODS

1 538 malignant tumors of the breast were reviewed. 15 cases (0.98%) were diagnosed as SC. AE1/AE3, carcinoembryonic antigen (EMA), vimentin, S-100 protein, actin, estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone (PR) were performed with SP immunohistochemical staining methods.

RESULTS

The SC were divided into four morphological types according to the distinctive features of their sarcomatoid components. (1) Polymorphic sarcoma type: sarcomatoid components are polymorphic; (2) Spindle cell type: sarcomatoid components consisted of spindle cells; (3) Osteoclastic giant cell type: a huge number of osteoclastic giant cells in the sarcomatoid components; (4) Myxocartilage type: myxocartilaginoid components are seen in the tumor tissue. With immunohistochemical staining, the expression rates of AE1/AE3, EMA, vimentin, S-100 protein and actins in the epithelial components were in 11, 15, 11, 12 and 8 cases respectively, and sarcomatoid components were in 10, 13, 13, 13 and 10 cases respectively, while ER and PR were positive only in 2 cases.

CONCLUSION

Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the breast should be distinguished from carcinosarcoma, desmoplastic carcinoma, sarcoma, nodular fasciitis and fibromatosis.

[Supracricoid partial laryngectomy in laryngeal cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of supracricoid partial laryngectomy in the treatment of laryngeal cancer and the reconstructed laryngeal functions.

METHODS

This study involved 29 patients operated on from 1978 to 1998 using this surgical procedure. In these cases, 18 were male and 11 were female with a mean age of 55.4 years (range, 38 to 70 years). The disease was classified according to the 1987 UICC system. There were 10 supraglottic cancers (3 T2N0, 1 T2N1, 3 T3N0, 2 T3N1, 1 T3N2), and 19 glottic cancers (12T2N0, 1T2N1, 4T3N0, 2T3N1). Two subtypes of supracricoid partial laryngectomy were performed, one with epiglottis preserved and reconstructed with cricohyoidepiglottopexy (CHEP), the other involved epiglottic resection and reconstructed with cricohyoidopexy (CHP).

RESULTS

The voice was good in all cases. Twenty-seven cases were decannulated (93.1%). All cases had overcome the aspiration by practice. The overall 3-year and 5-year survival rates were 89.7% and 75.9%.

CONCLUSION

Supracricoid partial laryngectomy was appropriate for selected supraglottic and glottic cancers.

[Studies on separation and identification of Rhizoma coptidis brugs based on microemulsion thin-layer chromatography]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the use of microemulsion TLC for the separation and identification of Rhizoma Coptidis drugs.

METHOD

Thirteen Rhizoma Coptidis drugs were separated and identified with six kinds of SDS/n-C4H9OH/n-C7H16/H2O microemulsions as mobile phase on polyamide film. Effects of microemulsions on separation were investigated.

RESULTS

The best mobile phase was the O/W microemulsion(containing 75% water). Compared with general mobile phases, the separation and detection could be improved and the test conditions were more tolerant.

CONCLUSION

This new method is simple, accurate and efficient for the separation and identification of Rhizoma Coptidis drugs.

Examination of novel non-phosphorus-containing phosphotyrosyl mimetics against protein-tyrosine phosphatase-1B and demonstration of differential affinities toward Grb2 SH2 domains

Inhibitory potencies were compared of several mono- and dicarboxy-based pTyr mimetics in Grb2 SH2 domain versus PTP1B assays. Although in both systems pTyr residues provide critical binding elements, significant differences in the manner of recognition exist between the two. This is reflected in the current study, where marked variation in relative potencies was observed between the two systems. Of particular note was the poor potency of all monocarboxy-based pTyr mimetics against PTP1B when incorporated into a hexapeptide platform. The recently reported high PTP1B inhibitory potency of similar phenylphosphate mimicking moieties displayed in small molecule, non-peptide structures, raises questions on the limitations of using peptides as platforms for pTyr mimetics in the discovery of small molecule inhibitors.

Relationship between metabolic phenotype of N-acetylation and bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between metabolic phenotype of acetylation and bladder cancer.

METHODS

Totally 203 healthy volunteers and 67 patients with bladder cancer were investigated with caffeine as a metabolic probe. Urine samples were collected in 2-6 hours after a cup of 140 mg coffee was taken, and the caffeine metabolites, 5-acetylamino-6-formylamino-1-methyluracil (AFMU) and 1-methylxanthine (1X) were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The frequency histogram and probit plot were constructed to select the critical value which was used to assess slow and fast acetylation status both in healthy volunteers and patients with bladder cancer.

RESULTS

The peak height ratios of AFMU and 1X (AFMU/1X) were from 0.06 to 6.50 for healthy volunteers and 0.10 to 6.31 for patients with bladder cancer, both with the critical value of 1.10. Of 203 healthy volunteers involved in this study, 26.3% were slow acetylacors, as compared to 46.3% with slow acetylacors in patients with bladder cancer. The odds ratio is 2.376, and the gene frequency for healthy volunteers and patients with urinary bladder cancer were 0.5218 and 0.6804, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

N-acetylation status in the Chinese population is polymorphic and completely concordant with that determined with other metabolic probes. Slow acetylators are significantly associated with bladder cancer.

[Generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes induced with HSP-PC70 derived from tumor cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the killing effect of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) induced with heat shock protein-peptide complexes (HSP-PC70) derived from tumor cells.

METHODS

Cell culture, flow cytometric analysis, affinity chromatography for protein extraction and purification, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, CTL induction and expansion, and LDH release were used.

RESULTS

63.5% of the HcaF cells expressed HSP-PC70 on their membrane by FCM analysis under physiological condition, and the expression was 75.5% of the stressed cells (P < 0.01). HcaF cells had high HSP70 expression and inducibility. The cytotoxic activity of the CTLs induced with HSP70 obtained by affinity chromatography from HcaF cells was 84.2%, 47.9% and 14.8% respectively at E/T ratio of 50 : 1, 25 : 1 and 12.5 : 1. The CTLs were CD8 positive T cells. All mice which received CTL injection got long period survival (over 90 days, P < 0.01), compared with control group (10.6 days).

CONCLUSION

HSP-PC70 derived from tumor cells has strong immunogeneicity, and can activate CTLs with high peculiarity and killing activity. HSP-PC70 induced CTL adoptive immunotherapy can be a promising treatment for human to fight cancers.

Inhibition of Grb2 SH2 domain binding by non-phosphate-containing ligands. 2. 4-(2-Malonyl)phenylalanine as a potent phosphotyrosyl mimetic

Nonhydrolyzable phosphotyrosyl (pTyr) mimetics serve as important components of many competitive Grb2 SH2 domain inhibitors. To date, the most potent of these inhibitors have relied on phosphonate-based structures to replace the 4-phosphoryl group of the parent pTyr residue. Reported herein is the design and evaluation of a new pTyr mimetic, p-malonylphenylalanine (Pmf), which does not contain phosphorus yet, in Grb2 SH2 domain binding systems, approaches the potency of phosphonate-based pTyr mimetics. When incorporated into high affinity Grb2 SH2 domain-directed platforms, Pmf is 15-20 times more potent than the closely related previously reported pTyr mimetic, O-malonyltyrosine (OMT). Pmf-containing inhibitors show inhibition constants as low as 8 nM in extracellular Grb2 binding assays and in whole cell systems, effective blockade of both endogenous Grb2 binding to cognate erbB-2, and downstream MAP kinase activation. Evidence is provided that use of an N(alpha)()-oxalyl auxiliary enhances effectiveness of Pmf and other inhibitors in both extracellular and intracellular contexts. As one of the most potent Grb2 SH2 domain-directed pTyr mimetics yet disclosed, Pmf may potentially have utility in the design of new chemotherapeutics for the treatment of various proliferative diseases, including breast cancer.

[Anterior segment reconstruction and secondary posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation supported by fibromembrane]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the methods and effects of anterior segment reconstruction and secondary posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation supported by fibromembrane in pupillary area.

METHODS

Anterior segment was reconstructed in 86 eyes with different anterior segment disorders. Anterior segment reconstruction includes: partial penetrating keratoplasty, loosing front adhesion, suturing detached peripheral iris, loosing rear adhesion, reshaping pupil, perforating fibromembrane in the pupillary area. The IOL was secondarily implanted into the posterior chamber, and the patients were followed up in 3 - 32 months.

RESULTS

The surgery was successful in all patients. The postoperative visual acuities in 71 eyes were >or= 0.5 (82.6%), including >or= 0.9 (39.5%) in 34 eyes and <or= 0.2 in 15 eyes (17.4%). After IOL implantation, the IOL correctly centered was in 68 eyes (79.1%), and deviated in 18 eyes (20.9%). Anterior chamber hemorrhage occurred in 5 eyes, 4 of them were recovered by conservative treatment and the blood membrane in another eye was sucked out through its primary incision. All patients had slight postoperative inflammation and without severe long term complications.

CONCLUSION

With the support of enough fibromembrane in pupillary area, anterior segment reconstruction and secondary posterior chamber IOL implantation can be performed, thus IOL suture fixation is not necessary, and its associated complications can be avoided.

The formation of the chick ileal muscle layers as revealed by alpha-smooth muscle actin immunohistochemistry

The genesis of intestinal smooth muscle layers was immunohistochemically investigated by use of an antibody to alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) in the developing chick ileum. Myoblast cells positive for alpha-SMA were already found in the presumptive circular muscle layer on E 8.5. On E 11.5 radially oriented muscle fibers were protruded from the outermost layer of the developing circular musculature and then formed a tuft-like aggregates. These radial muscle bundles were bent into an L-shape. The long distal extension of muscle bundles run parallel to the long axis of the ileal loop and developed into the longitudinal muscle layer. The obliquely oriented muscle fibers, locating at the intermuscular space of the muscularis propria, probably are to be considered a remnant of the short extension of radial muscle bundles. The muscularis mucosae was formed by the processes equivalent to the genesis of longitudinal muscle layer. On E 14.5 centripetally oriented muscle fibers emerged from the innermost layer of circular musculature. The long distal extension of centripetal fibers lay along the inner surface of developing circular musculature. On E 19.5 the longitudinal muscle layer of the muscularis mucosae was newly formed by separating from the circular musculature. The villous myoblast cells initially developed from the innermost layer of the muscularis mucosae on E 18.5, and were widely distributed in the lamina propria mucosae on E 20.5. Temporal and chronological pattern in expression of alpha-SMA was observed during the development of the chick intestinal smooth muscle. By E 14.5 the entire layer of the muscularis propria was intensely immunostained for alpha-SMA, but from E 15.5 onward the staining intensity gradually began to decrease from the outer half of the circular musculature. Finally, the immunoreactivity was localized in the inner layer of circular muscle and the longitudinal muscle layer. A possible functional role of this inner layer of circular muscle is discussed.

[The clinical application of stereography in laryngology with "the three-dimensional reconstruction system of medical faultage photograph"]

OBJECTIVE

To study the value of the clinical application of stereography in laryngology.

METHODS

Taken by Microtek E6 scanner, the CT faultage images were inputted in personal computer and reconstructed to a three-dimensional stereograph by "the three-dimensional reconstruction system of medical faultage photograph". The software was compiled using IDL5.2, a complete, integrated software environment for data analysis, visualization and application.

RESULTS

The three-dimensional laryngeal graph could be incised in random, displayed in optional degree, and was rotatable, semitransparent and measurable. The tumor could identified be identified by a special color and revealed through translucent parenchyma and cartilage. Reconstruction stereographs of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer of 26 patients were investigated.

CONCLUSION

It is convenient for popularization because the three-reconstruction process is built on a personal computer without the need of any equipment for image acceleration. It is very helpful for ENT surgeon to define the range of the tumor, to fix on surgical pattern accurately and to anticipate the operational course.

[Monitoring on blood lead and cadmium in Nanjing inhabitants from 1983 to 1998]

Blood lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) of residents in Nanjing were monitored from 1983 to 1998. The results showed that the blood Pb concentration was male > female, smokers > nonsmokers. Blood Pb in female nonsmokers increased gradually during recent ten years. Blood lead level was also significantly different between urban residents and suburban residents in 1998. Blood Cd concentration in female nonsmoker < male nonsmokers < male smokers < female smokers, male smokers > male nonsmokers. The blood Cd of female nonsmokers kept steady in the last ten years. The concentration of blood Cd of urban residents was accordant with suburban residents in 1998.

[Evolution of conception on apoplexoid (lei zhong feng) disorder]

Viewing separately from the etiology and the disease itself, the ancient literature gave two definitions, totally different from each other, for apoplexoid disorders within the category of apoplexy, each experienced a process of starting, development and evolution stages. Both exerted an active promotion to the development of apoplexy.

Abnormalities of enteric neurons, intestinal pacemaker cells, and smooth muscle in human intestinal atresia

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Intestinal dysmotility, which usually has been encountered in the severely dilated proximal segment, is an important problem in postoperative management of patients with intestinal atresia (IA). Changes of enteric nerves had been histochemically examined in both the proximal and distal segments of IA, but a systemic immunohistochemical analysis is still lacking. The aim of this study was to examine precisely alterations of neuronal and muscular elements and pacemaker cells in intestines from patients with IA.

METHODS

Resected intestines were obtained from 5 patients with ileal atresia, 3 patients with jejunal atresia, and 3 controls without gastrointestinal diseases (congenital diaphragmatic hernia). All specimens were immunochemically stained with a monoclonal antibody to alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) as a smooth muscle marker, polyclonal antibodies to protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 as a general neuronal marker, and to c-kit protein as a maker of intestinal pacemaker cells. In addition, all specimens also were stained by NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d) to know the distribution of inhibitory nitrergic nerves.

RESULTS

A hypoplasia of the myenteric ganglia and a marked reduction of intramuscular nerve fibers, including nitrergic neurons, were observed in the dilated proximal segment of IA. C-kit-positive cells were localized around the myenteric plexus, but rarely found within the muscularis propria in the proximal segment. The distribution of nerves and c-kit-positive cells in the distal segment was comparable with that seen in controls. A reduced staining intensity for alpha-SMA was mainly observed in the hypertrophic circular muscle layer of the proximal segment.

CONCLUSIONS

A hypoplasia of intramural nerves and pacemaker cells was seen predominantly in the proximal segments of IA. Hypertrophy and reduced immunoreactivity for alpha-SMA also were observed in the circular muscle layer of the proximal segment. These alterations of the proximal segment may thus contribute to the postoperative intestinal dysmotility in IA cases.

[Sensitizing effect of nonionic microemulsion on the derivative spectrophotometric determination of trace iron with sulfosalicylic acid]

The sensitizing effect of O/W microemulsion of Triton X-100/n-C5H11OH/n-C9H20/H2O as a medium on the derivative spectrophotometry of Fe-Sal was studied. The results show that the sensitivity of determination in O/W microemulsion was higher than that in micelle. The reagent Sal has higher distribution coefficient KD and constant K in microemulsion than in the micelle system and lower binding in O/W microemulsion than in the micelle system. This results also illustrate that O/W microemulsion has more solubilization for Sal than micelle does, so that O/W microemulsion has more sensitizing reaction than micelle does.

Regulatory effects of interleukin-11 during acute lung inflammatory injury

The role of interleukin-11 (IL-11) was evaluated in the IgG immune complex model of acute lung injury in rats. IL-11 mRNA and protein were both up-regulated during the course of this inflammatory response. Exogenously administered IL-11 substantially reduced, in a dose-dependent manner, the intrapulmonary accumulation of neutrophils and the lung vascular leak of albumin. These in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of IL-11 were associated with reduced NF-kappaB activation in lung, reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids, and diminished up-regulation of lung vascular ICAM-1. It is interesting that IL-11 did not affect BAL fluid content of the CXC chemokines, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) and cytokine-inducible neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC); the presence of IL-11 did not affect these chemokines. However, BAL content of C5a was reduced by IL-11. These data indicate that IL-11 is a regulatory cytokine in the lung and that, like other members of this family, its anti-inflammatory properties appear to be linked to its suppression of NF-kappaB activation, diminished production of TNF-alpha, and reduced up-regulation of lung vascular ICAM-1.

[Determination of sarafloxacin by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)]

A method for the separation and determination of Sarafloxacin by HPLC was developed. The sample was dissolved in a mixture of V(acetonitrile):V(water) = 1:1. Operating conditions were as follows: mu-Bondapak C18 column (3.9 mm x 300 mm), V(acetonitrile):V(methanol):V(2 mmol/L H3PO4, adjust pH 3.5 with triethylamine) = 30:5:65 as mobile phase with a flow rate of 1 mL/min, UV detection at 278 nm, and column temperature was 15 degrees C. Under the above conditions, Sarafloxacin and other impurities were separated from each other. The method was simple, rapid, sensitive and accurate.

[Sensitizing effect of nonionic microemulsion on phosphorus in crystal violet heteropoly molybdophosphoric acid]

A highly sensitive and convenient spectrophotometric method for phosphorus was developed. The sensitizing effect of nonionic microemulsion Triton X-100/n-C5H11OH/n-C0H20/H2O on the ion-association of heteropoly molybdophosphoric acid with crystal violet was higher than that of micelle Triton X-100/H2O. This result showed, by the measurement of distribution constant KD, that the binding constant K and the number of binding sites n of CV were related to the greater solubilization capacity of CV-PMo in nonionic microemulsion system than that in micelle.

Monocarboxylic-based phosphotyrosyl mimetics in the design of GRB2 SH2 domain inhibitors

Three monocarboxylic-containing analogues, O-carboxymethyltyrosine (cmT, 5), 4-(carboxymethyl)phenylalanine (cmF, 6), and 4-(carboxydifluoromethyl)phenylalanine (F2cmF, 7) were utilized as phosphotyrosyl (pTyr) replacements in a high affinity B-bend mimicking platform, where they exhibited IC50 values of 2.5 microM, 65 microM and 28 microM, respectively, in a Grb2 SH2 domain Biacore binding assay. When a terminal N(alpha)-oxalyl axillary was utilized to enhance ligand interactions with a critical SH2 domain Arg67 residue (alphaA-helix), binding potencies increased from 4- to 10-fold, resulting in submicromolar affinity for cmF (IC50 = 0.6 microM) and low micromolar affinity for F2cmF (IC50 = 2 microM). Cell lysate binding studies also showed inhibition of cognate Grb2 binding to the p185erbB-2 phosphoprotein in the same rank order of potency as observed in the Biacore assay. These results indicate the potential value of cmF and F2cmF residues as pTyr mimetics for the study of Grb2 SH2 domains and suggest new strategies for improvements in inhibitor design.

Chronological change of distribution in nitric oxide and peptidergic neurons after rat small intestinal transplantation

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Nitric oxide (NO) has been considered one of the putative neurotransmitters of nonadrenergic, noncholinergic inhibitory neurons. To examine the effect of transplantation on NO neurons in the intestine, the distribution of NO neurons was examined and compared with that of peptide-containing neurons.

METHODS

A jejunal graft measuring about 20 cm was harvested from a Lewis rat, syngeneically transplanted as a Thiry-Vella loop, and later was replaced to the recipient small bowel 20 days after transplantation. Tissue specimens of the grafts were taken on days 1, 3, 6, 10, and 20, and 1 year after transplantation (n = 5 each). The distribution of the neurons was examined immunohistochemically, using antisera against protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5, general neuronal marker), brain nitric oxide synthase (bNOS), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), and substance P. In addition, NADPH diaphorase staining also was performed to visualize NO neurons.

RESULTS

In the PGP 9.5 immunoreactivities, no significant difference in the distribution was observed among the controls and on any day after transplantation. However, the NADPHd activities markedly decreased in muscle layers, especially in the deep muscular layer on day 1 and 3, but quickly recovered by day 6. The distribution of bNOS immunoreactivities was almost same as that of NADPHd staining. The VIP and substance P immunoreactivities also decreased on day 1, and thereafter gradually recovered, and then became normal on day 20.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the NO and peptidergic neurons markedly decreased just after transplantation, and the NO neurons recovered faster than the peptidergic neurons. These findings suggested that NO neurons might play an important role in the adaptation process of the graft in the early period after transplantation.

Alterations of the intramural nervous distributions in a chick intestinal atresia model

The postoperative intestinal dysmotility seen in intestinal atresia (IA) is usually found in association with a dilatation of the proximal intestinal segment, but the etiology of this disorder is not yet fully understood. A chick IA model was made by cutting the postumbilical midgut on d 11 in ovo. The operated chicks were euthanized 2 d after hatching. The samples were divided into two groups according to the extent of the dilatation of proximal ileal segments. Cryostat sections were processed for immunohistochemistry by the use of antisera to protein gene product 9.5, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, substance-P, and alpha-smooth muscle actin and were also stained by NADPH-diaphorase. Tn highly dilated proximal segments, a decreased number of protein gene product 9.5-positive fibers was found in both the circular muscle and submucous layers. The number of nerve fibers positive for vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, substance-P, and NADPH-diaphorase also decreased in the circular muscle layer, particularly in the deep muscular plexus. Hypertrophy and an alteration of the staining intensities in the circular muscle layer were also revealed by a-smooth muscle actin staining. The nerve distribution of the distal segments was indistinguishable from that of the age-matched controls and the sham-operated group. Abnormalities in the intramural nerves are only found in the proximal ileal segment of the IA models. The abnormal nerve distribution of the proximal segment might thus be implicated in the postoperative dysmotility of the intestine in IA.

[Study of the behavior on meso-Tetra (4-sulfophenyl) Porphyrin (TPPS) in the microemulsion system]

The change of absorption spectrum of meso-Tetra (4-sulfophenyl) Porphyrin (TPPS) in microemulsion system (Triton X-100-nonane-pentanol-water) was studied. The electric dissociation constants (Ka ) and dimerization constants (KD) were calculated. It was shown that Ka of TPPS is added but KD of TPPS is decreased in microemulsion system as compared with that in aqueous solution.

Porphyrins in urine, plasma, erythrocytes, bile and faeces in a case of congenital erythropoietic porphyria (Gunther's disease) treated with blood transfusion and iron chelation: lack of benefit from oral charcoal

Congenital erythropoietic porphyria is a rare genetic disorder in which deficiency of uroporphyrinogen III synthase results in excessive production of Type I porphyrins. The main clinical features are severe photodestruction of the skin and haemolytic anaemia. Treatment consists of shielding from light, blood transfusions and splenectomy, but is generally unsatisfactory. Previous studies have suggested that oral charcoal may be of benefit by binding porphyrins in the gut. A trial was therefore undertaken to evaluate this possibility. Porphyrins in urine, plasma and erythrocytes were measured by HPLC in a 23-year-old male patient with congenital erythropoietic porphyria, during an 8 week "run-in" period, and for a further 3 weeks when oral charcoal was given. Total urinary porphyrin excretion was 79-283 mumol/24 h consisting of 75% uroporphyrin I, 15% coproporphyrin I and smaller amounts of hepta-, hexa-, and pentacarboxylic porphyrins. Similar proportions were found in plasma and erythrocytes. During the first 24 h of charcoal administration a minor decrease in plasma and erythrocyte porphyrins was detected but this was not maintained during the remainder of the trial. In bile and faeces coproporphyrin I constituted approximately 95% of the porphyrins, with 2-3% coproporphyrin III and smaller amounts of pentaporphyrins I and III, but only trace amounts of uroporphyrin I. Oral charcoal was of no value in this case. Reasons are discussed in the context of biochemical differences between this patient with classical Gunther's disease and the similar clinical syndrome due to deficiency of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase.

[Histopathological study of surgical resection margins of laryngeal carcinoma]

64 specimens of laryngeal carcinoma were studied by using the step-serial whole organ section and histopathologic examination of the region around tumor. We discussed the situation of lesions spreading from tumor to resection margins, the survival rate of different types of resection margins, the common position of positive resection margins and the correlative factors of positive resection margins combining with histopathology, clinical expression and follow-up results. We concluded that resection margins more than 5 mm far from visible tumor is suitable.