Rectified heat transfer into translating and pulsating vapor bubbles

It is well known that, when a stationary vapor bubble is subject to a sufficiently intense acoustic field, it will grow by rectified heat transfer even in a subcooled liquid. The object of this paper is to study how translation, and the ensuing convective effects, influence this process. It is shown that, depending on the initial temperature distribution and other factors, convection can cause a destabilization of the bubble or its faster growth. Significant effects occur in parameter ranges readily encountered in practice. The phenomena described can therefore be exploited for bubble management, e.g., by increasing the condensation rate or promoting faster bubble growth and coalescence. In a saturated or a superheated liquid, heat rectification and convection reinforce each other and the bubble growth is accelerated by a translatory motion.

[Combined percutaneous ethanol injection through liver puncture and transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study the therapeutic effects of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with beta-ultrasound guided percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) at multiple points for hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

Eighty-seven patients with hepatocellular carcinoma were divided into two groups: Group A, 45 patients were treated with TACE only, group B, 42 patients were treated with TACE plus PEI.

RESULTS

In group A patients, the 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 66.7%, 41.4%, and 21.4%, respectively. Only 26.1% of cancer specimens showed complete necrosis by pathologic examination in group A. In group B, the 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 97.1%, 85.71% and 65.71%, respectively, with complete necrosis in 81.8%.

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic effects of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with percutaneous multiple point ethanol injection through liver puncture is much better than that of TACE alone.

[The implications of the biological indices examination of bone marrow cells in myelodysplastic syndromes]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the biological characteristics of the hematopoietic cells in myelodysplastic syndromes(MDS) and the relationship between the biological indices and the disease progressing.

METHODS

R banding technique for karyotype analysis, in vitro semi-solid culture for CFU-GM growth patterns, flow cytometry after monoclonal antibody labeling for proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, flow cytometry after in vitro bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation for cell cycle kinetics analysis, and X-linked HUMARA gene polymorphism assay for hematopoiesis clonality analysis were carried out in 37 MDS patients.

RESULTS

1. Cytogenetic abnormalities were detected in 31% of the MDS patients and AML transformation occurred in 2 of 9 with normal and 3 of 5 with abnormal chromosomal karyotypes. 2. The mean CFU-GM colony yield was decreased and cluster yield increased in the MDS patients. Disease progression in 6 of 9 with more CFU-GM cluster yields, while only 1 of 9 with either normal or no CFU-GM yields transformed into AML. 3. Percentages of PCNA-positive BMMNCs were significantly higher in MDS patients than in normal control (44.22% vs 26.82%, P < 0.01). RAEB/RAEB-t subtypes had significantly higher PCNA-positive cells (P < 0.01). 4. The mean BrdU labeling index of MDS marrow cells was lower (5.07%), the mean DNA synthesis time (Ts) and potential doubling time(Tpot) of MDS patients were longer than that of normal control (p < 0.01), and the increased Ts and T pot were related to the disease progression. 5. Monoclonal pattern of BMMNCs was detected in 5 of 7 heterozygous female RA patients and the other 2 were polyclonal hematopoiesis. All 3 RAEB and 1 MDS/AML were monoclonal hematopoiesis.

CONCLUSION

With disease progressing and bone marrow blasts increasing, the biological nature of the hamatopoetic cells in MDS exhibited a tendency to transformation as follows: hematopoiesis converting into clonal, in vitro CFU-GM growth pattern approaching leukemic, PCNA expression increasing, and cell cycle prolonging.

[Association between polymorphism of alpha 1-antichymotrypsin and apolipoprotein E gene and Parkinson's disease in Shanghai Hans]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between polymorphism of alpha 1-antichymotrypsin(AACT) and apolipoprotein E(ApoE) genes and the risk of Parkinson's disease(PD) in Shanghai Hans.

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) were used to study the distribution of AACT and ApoE gene polymorphism in 64 PD cases and 101 healthy elderly persons as controls. Association analysis was performed using odds ratio (OR) and chi 2 test.

RESULTS

No difference in distribution of AACT A/T allele polymorphism was found between PD cases and healthy controls(chi 2 = 0.83 P = 0.363 > 0.05), but AACT-AA genotype was associated with PD(OR = 2.68, chi 2 = 4.31 P = 0.038 < 0.05). The ApoE gene polymorphism was not associated with PD(allele: chi 2 = 2.85 P = 0.241 > 0.05; genotype: chi 2 = 9.25 P = 0.099 > 0.05). The AACT-AT genotype frequency in PD patients was significantly lower than that in the controls without ApoE epsilon 4 allele(OR = 0.47, chi 2 = 4.10 P = 0.043 < 0.05). In AACT-AT genotype the ApoE epsilon 4 allele was associated with PD(OR = 3.26, chi 2 = 5.53 P = 0.019 < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The AACT-AA genotype and AACT-AT genotype with ApoE epsilon 4 might be susceptible factors for PD in Shanghai Hans.

The involvement of bradykinin in adrenaline-induced pulmonary edema in rats

We investigated the effect of endogenous bradykinin on adrenaline-induced pulmonary edema (PE) by blocking bradykinin receptors. In preliminary experiments, a bolus injection of adrenaline (ADR; 10 microg/kg) solution (10 microg/ml) was determined to be an edematogenic dose for inducing PE. The lung body weight index (LBI) and incidence of PE (IPE) were determined. The IPE and LBI of the group pretreated with Des-Arg9-[Leu8]-Bradykinin (DA-BK, 50 microg/kg, 50 microg/ml) increased significantly compared with those of the control group (p<0.05). On the other hand, there were no remarkable changes in IPE and LBI in the groups pretreated with Hoe140 (D-Arginyl-[Hyp3, Thi5, D-Tic7, Oic8]-Bradykinin (100 microg/kg, 100 microg/ml), captopril (20 mg/kg, 20 mg/ml) or L-NAME (1 mg/kg, 1 mg/ml). Moreover, the IPE and LBI of the group co-treated with L-NAME and DA-BK decreased compared with the DA-BK group (p<0.05). Thus, bradykinin aggravates adrenaline-induced PE through activation of the B2 receptor by the kallikreins as a result of the ADR administration, although the precise mechanism is not known.

[The predomination of rotavirus G3 serotype among children with diarrhea in Lulong County in 1998]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the epidemiology of rotavirus diarrhea among children in rural population.

METHODS

120 stool specimens collected from children with diarrhea during the winter of 1998 in Lulong County, Hebei Province were examined for rotavirus by PAGE and ELISA and for serotype by ELISA and PCR.

RESULTS

Rotavirus was detected in children aged between 2-24 months. The positive rate of rotavirus was 39.2% and the ratio of male to female was 1-1.47. All rotavirus RNA profiles were long pattern. The distribution of rotavirus serotypes was type 3(61.7%), followed by type 1(36.2%), and type 4(6.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

The epidemiology of rotavirus diarrhea during 1998 rotavirus season in Lulong County was similar to that of other regions in China, but rotavirus serotype G3 was a prevalent strain in Lulong County, which was uncommon and different from the predominant G1 in other places throughout China.

The effect of fluid shear stress on ICAM-1 expression of rat brain microvascular endothelial cells

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is an adherence molecule that is an important factor in many pathophysiological processes such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis and inflammation. It is secretion of endothelial cells by a variety of biochemical stimulations. But hemodynamic forces can also induce various functional changes in vascular endothelium. Some researches have proved that shear stress can modulate the expression of ICAM-1. But most of them examine the regulation of expression of ICAM-1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. There is no detail on the effect of shear stress (SS) on ICAM-1 expression of microvascular endothelial cells (RBMECs). In this experiment, we use cultured rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (RBMECs). By using the parallel plate flow chamber method, we give two magnitudes of lamminar shear stresses (0.2 dyn/cm2, 0.4 dyn/cm2) for different perieods of time on the slides of cells. Immunostaining method and image analysis shows a specific upregulation in ICAM-1 expression on RBMECs, which is different from endothelial cells of other species or vascular beds. Expression of ICAM-1 is increased 0.5h after the onset of SS, and reached its highest level 4h after onset of SS, then declines after that. The effect is time-dependent, not force magnitude-dependent. Endothelial cell surface expression of ICAM-1 in the supernatants of RBMECs exposed to SS was not modified excluding the possibility that RBMECs exposed to SS synthesize factors that upregulate ICAM-1. The experiment data are relevant to the current understanding of basic mechanisms that explain the signal transudation pathway occurring inside the endothelial cells under the effect of SS.

Nitric oxide attenuates alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors by ADP-ribosylation of G(i)alpha in ciliary epithelium

PURPOSE

To determine the mechanism by which nitric oxide (NO) regulates alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor coupling to adenylyl cyclase in bovine ciliary epithelium.

METHODS

Ciliary epithelial explants were dissected, cultured, and labeled with [(3)H]adenine. [(3)H]Adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) was measured under basal conditions and after exposure to forskolin, isoproterenol, clonidine, yohimbine, pertussis toxin, and the NO donor spermine-NO. Endogenous and NO-stimulated ADP-ribosylation of ciliary epithelial membrane proteins was determined by [(32)P]nicotinamide adenosine diphosphate (NAD) labeling and autoradiography. The three isoforms of the G(i)alpha protein subunit were evaluated by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Basal [(3)H]cAMP content was 13.4 +/- 1.3 picomoles/mg protein (SEM). Both isoproterenol and forskolin stimulated [(3)H]cAMP accumulation to 36.0 +/- 3.9 and 73.2 +/- 17.5 picomoles/mg protein, respectively. Clonidine did not affect basal [(3)H]cAMP levels, but attenuated both isoproterenol- and forskolin-mediated [(3)H]cAMP accumulation to 23.2 +/- 4.4 and 31.6 +/- 4.6 picomoles/mg protein, respectively. Yohimbine antagonized the clonidine-mediated adenylyl cyclase inhibition. Pertussis toxin blocked the effect of clonidine. In the presence of the NO donor spermine-NO, the clonidine-mediated inhibition of forskolin- and isoproterenol-stimulated cAMP accumulation was attenuated completely. NO significantly stimulated endogenous [(32)P]ADP-ribosylation of a 40-kDa membrane protein. Western blot analysis with specific antibodies revealed expression of all three G(i) subtypes--G(i1)alpha, G(i2)alpha, and G(i3)alpha--in bovine ciliary epithelium.

CONCLUSIONS

NO attenuates alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase in ciliary epithelium through ADP-ribosylation of the G(i)alpha subunit. The findings demonstrate heterologous regulation between the NO and cAMP signaling pathways in ciliary epithelium.

[Study on the transformation from myelodysplastic syndromes into acute leukemias]

OBJECTIVE

To study the patterns of transformation from myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) into acute leukemias (AL).

METHODS

Leukemic transformation of MDS patients was dynamically followed up and the clinical manifestations, peripheral blood and bone marrow pictures, karyotypes, immunophenotypes, response to treatment and prognosis of post MDS acute leukemia (postMDS-AL) were observed.

RESULTS

During the past eight year and seven months, 21 (13.91%) of 151 MDS patients progressed to overt leukemia with a median interval of 5 (1 - 21) months. There were no significant differences among the rates of leukemia from RA, RAEB and RAEB-t groups. The transformation was developed either gradually or rapidly. There were five parameters related to the leukemic transformation: under 40 years of age, pancytopenia, more than 0.15 blasts in bone marrow, at least two types of abnormal karyotype and combined chemotherapy. All of the 21 post MDS-AL were acute myeloid leukemia (AML); and most of them were M(2), M(4) and M(5). Two (9.52%) post MDS-AML developed extramedullary infiltration. Leukopenia was found in 47.62% of patients. Two third of the patients, whose bone marrows were generally hypercellular, showed neutropenias. After evolving into AML, 8 (47.06%) patients developed abnormal karyotypes. High expression of immature myeloid antigens, including CD(33) (49.83 +/- 24.50)%, CD(13) (36.38 +/- 33.84)%, monocytic antigen CD(14) (38.50 +/- 24.60)%, and stem cell marker CD(34) (34.67 +/- 30.59)% were found on bone marrow mononuclear cells of post MDS-AML cases. In some cases, lymphoid antigens, such as CD(5), CD(7), CD(9) and CD(19) were coexisted with myeloid antigens. A low complete remission rate (31.25%) and short survival duration with median survival of 6 (1 - 28) months were found in patients with post MDS-AML treated by induction therapy.

CONCLUSION

MDS was at high risk of evolving into AML, either gradually or rapidly. Patients with post MDS-AML had specific biologic features and worse prognoses.

Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia: Management with High-Dose Cytosine Arabinoside, Daunorubicin and Marrow Transplantation; Malignancy; Current Clinical Practice

Combination high-dose cytosine arabinoside (ARA-C) and daunorubicin (DNR) for primary remission induction of patients with acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) was evaluated in a single institution study. Patients aged 55 or less with an HLA-sibling received an allogeneic bone marrow transplant (alloBMT) in first remission; other responders were offered autologous BMT (autoBMT). For remission induction 93 patients aged less than 60 received DNR 45 mg/m(2) BSA x 3 and ARA-C 2 gm/m(2) BSA every 12 hours for 12 doses; 53 aged 60 or older DNR 25 mg/m(2) daily x 3 and ARA-C 1.5-2.0 gm/m(2) BSA every 12 hours for 12 doses. Consolidation doses of DNR were the same but ARA-C 100 mg/m(2) BSA/day x 5 was given by continuous intravenous infusion. The complete remission rate for patients less than 60 years was 69.9% (95% CI: 59.5-79.0%) and 47.2% (95% CI: 33.3-61.4%) for the older patients. The median duration of first remission for the younger patients was 13.0 months and of overall survival 17.9 months; for patients over 60 years 5.6 and 10.0 months respectively. Disease-free survival and overall survival of the 19 patients receiving alloBMT and the 13 patients undergoing autoBMT aged less than 55 years and in first or second complete remission were significantly increased compared with 22 patients in remission but not having BMT (p < 0.001 and p < 0.013). The results support the effectiveness of high-dose ARA-C for remission induction, a need for intensive consolidation therapy and a role for BMT in the management of AML.

Effects of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) on experimental osteoporotic fracture healing

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) on osteoporotic fracture healing in rats, and to provide an effective therapy for osteoporotic fracture.

METHODS

Thirty-six female 8-month-old SD rats were randomized into two groups: therapy group and control group. After the experimental model of osteoporotic fracture was established, the therapy group was treated with r-hGH of 2.7 mg/kg body weigh/day (1 mg=3 IU) for 10 days continuously by daily subcutaneous injection; whereas the control group was treated with equivalent saline. Plasma insulin-like growth factor I concentration was detected and bone mineral density (BMD) as well as biomechanical strength of callus were measured at 2, 4, 8 weeks.

RESULTS

Plasma insulin-like growth factor I concentration in the therapy group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.005) at 2nd week and began to decline at 4th week. At 8th week, there was no significant difference between the two groups. At 4th week, callus area and BMD in therapy group were higher than those in the control group, but at 8th week, they were lower and BMD had a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.001). Biomechanical testing of callus showed that torsional strength of the therapy group was higher than that of the control group at 4th or 8th week, meanwhile maximum torsional angle had a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that exogenous r-hGH can stimulate osteoporotic fracture healing in rats.

[Effects of baicalin on hepatocyte apoptosis induced by TNF-alpha and act D in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of baicalin on rat hepatocyte apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factora (TNF-alpha) and actinomycin D (Act D) in vitro.

METHODS

Hepatocytes were cultured with different concentrations of baicalin and the cell apoptosis was induced by TNF-alpha and Act D in vitro. After culturing for 24 h, the activity of hepatocysts was examined by MTT assay and the function of hepatocytes for secreting albumin was detected by bromocresolum Viride method. Agarose gelelectrophoresis and flow cytometric analysis were used to determine the apoptotic cells.

RESULTS

The actively of the hepatocyte (A) and content of albumin (ALB) in the supernatant of cultured cells in the groups of 0.2 microgram.ml-1 and 2.0 micrograms.ml-1 of baicaline were significantly higher than those in apoptotic model group (A: P < 0.01; ALB: P < 0.01); respectively Even the ALB value in the group of 0.2 microgram.ml-1 baicalin was higher that of black control group (P < 0.01); The clear "ladder-like" streak-band of DNA fragments was found only in the apoptosis model group by the agarose gel electrophoresis. The flow cytometry showed that all the apoptosis rates in the three baicalin groups were lower than that of the apoptotic model group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Baicaline can restrain rat hepatocyte apoptosis induced by TNF-alpha and ActD in vitro.

Establishment of in vitro cellular model predicting histocompatibility in allograft

A novel in vitro cellular model producting recipient-donor histocompatibility in allograft was developed to select the donor validity. Fifteen couples of blood samples of donor and recipient in human BMT were examined using the model, and skin allograft in mice was performed to test the model. The results showed that the less the differences of histocompatibility evaluated by the model were, the later GVHR in human BMT occurred and the longer the survival time of skin allografts in mice. It was suggested that the model could be used to predict correctly histocompatibility between donor and recipient.

Early loss of synaptic protein PSD-95 from rod terminals of rhodopsin P347L transgenic porcine retina

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a type of retinal degeneration involving first rod and then slow cone photoreceptor degeneration, can be caused by any of a number of mutations in different genes. In the cases of mutations affecting rod-specific genes such as rhodopsin, it is unclear how the mutations may cause degeneration of cones. We have used the porcine retina, which is rod-dominated and has an abundance of cones, to study the mutation-induced changes in both rod and cone photoreceptors. Like patients with the same mutation, rhodopsin P347L transgenic swine manifest rod-cone degeneration. In addition, the rod bipolar cells fail to form synaptic connections with rods; instead, they form ectopic synapses with cones. The mechanisms that prevent the formation of the rod-rod bipolar cell synaptic connection are not known. We used specific antibodies and immunocytochemistry to show that the synaptic protein, PSD-95, is present in both normal and transgenic porcine retinas. During neonatal development, however, PSD-95 is lost from rod terminals in the transgenic swine. This loss is virtually complete (90%) by postnatal day 5, at a time when greater than 80% of rod cell bodies still remain. Furthermore, the remaining rods retain their outer segments and their gross morphology appears relatively normal. In contrast, PSD-95 expression continues in cone terminals, even in 10-month-old transgenic swine, where the rods have all disappeared and the cones show signs of severe degeneration. These results suggest that loss of PSD-95 may not be a general consequence of the deteriorating cell. Rather, the very early and selective loss of PSD-95 from the rod terminals may be causally related to the absence of rod-rod bipolar cell synapses in the rhodopsin P347L transgenic retina.

Ectopic synaptogenesis in the mammalian retina caused by rod photoreceptor-specific mutations

In addition to rod photoreceptor loss, many mutations in rod photoreceptor-specific genes cause degeneration of other neuronal types. Identifying mechanisms of cell-cell interactions initiated by rod-specific mutations and affecting other retinal cells is important for understanding the pathogenesis and progression of retinal degeneration. Here we show in animals with rod and cone degeneration due to mutations in the genes encoding rhodopsin and cGMP phosphodiesterase beta-subunit (PDE-beta) respectively, that rod bipolar cells received ectopic synapses from cones in the absence of rods. Thus, synaptic plasticity links certain rod-specific mutations to retina-wide structural alterations that involve different types of neurons.

Serotonin released from intestinal enterochromaffin cells mediates luminal non-cholecystokinin-stimulated pancreatic secretion in rats

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Similar to cholecystokinin (CCK), non-CCK-dependent duodenal factors stimulate vagal mucosal afferent fibers to mediate pancreatic enzyme secretion via a common cholinergic pathway. We tested the hypothesis that 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) released from enterochromaffin (EC) cells plays an important role in the transduction of luminal information to the central nervous system via vagal afferent fibers to mediate pancreatic secretion.

METHODS

Pancreatic secretions were examined in conscious rats after intragastric administration of chopped rodent chow in the presence and absence of CCK or 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(2) antagonists. Pancreatic responses to intraduodenal administration of maltose, hyperosmolar NaCl, and light mucosal stroking were examined in rats pretreated with various pharmacological antagonists or after surgical or chemical ablation of vagal and 5-HT neural pathways.

RESULTS

Administration of L364, 718 inhibited 54% of pancreatic protein secretion evoked by intragastric administration of rodent chow. L364,714 and ICS 205-930, a 5-HT(3) antagonist, combined produced a 94% inhibition. Vagal afferent rootlet section eliminated pancreatic secretions evoked by intraduodenal stimuli. p-Chlorophenylalanine, a 5-HT synthesis inhibitor, but not 5,7-hydroxytryptamine, a 5-HT neurotoxin, also eliminated the pancreatic response to these luminal stimuli. The 5-HT(3) antagonist markedly inhibited pancreatic secretion induced by maltose and hyperosmolar NaCl. 5-HT(2) and 5-HT(3) antagonists combined inhibited the pancreatic response to light stroking of the mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS

Luminal factors such as osmolality, disaccharides, and mechanical stimulation stimulated pancreatic secretion via intestinal vagal mucosal afferent fibers. It is likely that 5-HT originating from intestinal EC cells activated 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(2) receptors on vagal afferent fibers to mediate luminal factor-stimulated pancreatic secretion.

The effect of the prostaglandin I2 analogue OP-2507 on adrenaline-induced pulmonary edema in rabbits and analysis of hemodynamic changes

This study was carried out to understand the onset mechanism of adrenaline (ADR)-induced pulmonary edema (PE) and the effect of drugs related to the arachidonate cascade in a rabbit model. ADR was administered intravenously by a bolus injection to the rabbits at 50, 75 and 100 microg/kg. To evaluate the severity of PE, the lung-water ratio (LWR) was calculated as a ratio of the difference between wet and dry lung weight to dry lung weight. The PE incidence and LWR exhibited a dose-dependent increase, and LWR correlated with the left atrial pressure (LAP). The involvement of the arachidonate cascade was evaluated by the co-administration of flurbiprofen, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor; ozagrel, a thromboxane synthase inhibitor; and OP-2507 (15-cis-(4-n-propylcyclohexyl)-6,17,18, 19,20-pentanor-9-deoxy-6,9-alpha-nitriloprostaglandin F1 methyl ester), a prostaglandin I2 analogue. Co-treatment of the rabbits with ADR and flurbiprofen resulted in an increase in LAP and the incidence of PE, whereas co-administration of ozagrel did not exhibit any significant changes in the measured parameters. Conversely, OP-2507 reduced the LAP, PE incidence and LWR when co-administered with ADR. Rabbits co-treated with OP-2507 displayed an improved cardiac function. The results of these studies demonstrated the effectiveness of OP-2507 in protecting the lung and cardiac function from the ADR-induced PE.

BAG-1 promotes apoptosis induced by N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide in human cervical carcinoma cells

N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4-HPR) is a synthetic apoptosis-inducing retinoid with cancer chemopreventive properties and lower toxicity than all-trans retinoic acid. BAG-1 is an antiapoptotic gene that is overexpressed in cervical and other cancers. In this study, we examined whether BAG-1 can inhibit 4-HPR-induced apoptosis in the C33A cervical carcinoma cell line. Surprisingly, although it inhibited apoptosis induced by five different apoptotic stimuli, overexpression of BAG-1 enhanced apoptosis induced by 4-HPR, producing a 2.5-fold lower IC(50) of 4-HPR. The effects of BAG-1 on 4-HPR-induced apoptosis were mediated by enhancing the caspase-3 activation pathway. Deletion mutation experiments showed that the central ubiquitin homology domain of BAG-1 protein was necessary for its promotion of 4-HPR-induced apoptosis, whereas its C-terminal Hsp70/Hsc70-interacting domain was required for its inhibition of staurosporine-induced apoptosis. These in vitro results suggest that the effectiveness of 4-HPR against the development of malignancy may be due to the overexpression of BAG-1 in cancer cells.

Identification of antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory proteins in human amniotic membrane

PURPOSE

To identify the potential antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory proteins expressed in human amniotic membrane tissue.

METHODS

Human amniotic epithelial and mesenchymal cells were isolated from human amniotic membranes by sequential trypsin and collagenase digestion. Total RNAs were harvested from freshly obtained human amniotic epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory proteins were detected by the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique and further confirmed by DNA sequencing of PCR-amplified transcripts. The distribution of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) were studied further by immunohistochemistry performed on paraffin-embedded amniotic membrane tissue.

RESULTS

RT-PCR results showed that both human amniotic epithelial and mesenchymal cells express interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, all four TIMPs, collagen XVIII, and interleukin-10. Thrombospondin-1 was expressed in all of the epithelial cell specimens and in one out of five mesenchymal cell specimens. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry studies performed on freshly prepared amniotic membrane confirmed that all members of the TIMP family were present in epithelial and mesenchymal cells as well as in the compact layer of the amniotic stroma. In cryopreserved amniotic membranes, positive staining was seen in residual amniotic cells and stroma.

CONCLUSIONS

Human amniotic membrane epithelial and mesenchymal cells express various antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory proteins. Some of those proteins also were found in amniotic membrane stroma. These findings may explain in part the antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory effects of amniotic membrane transplantation.

[Study on human leukemia cell apoptosis inducing effect of fraction C of Naja naja Actra Venom]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect and mechanism of fraction C isolated from Naja naja Actra Venom (FCNNAV) in inducing apoptosis of human leukemia cells.

METHODS

Light microscope, transmission electron microscope, DNA electrophoresis, flow cytometry and RT-PCR assay were used to observe the changes of human leukemia cells in morphology and biochemistry, and Bcl-2/Bax expression after exposing to FCNNAV.

RESULTS

FCNNAV could induce HL60 cells apoptosis demonstrated by the typical morphological and biochemical changes. Flow cytometry showed that J6-1, K562, HL60 and fresh leukemia cells apoptosis could be induced by FCNNAV, and the apoptosis rate was dose-dependent. RT-PCR detection showed the Bcl-2 gene expression of HL60 cells was down-regulated by FCNNAV, whereas the Bax expression was unaffected.

CONCLUSION

FCNNAV could induce apoptosis of human leukemia cells and this effect is related to down-regulation of Bcl-2 gene expression level.

[Study on clinical and laboratory features of preleukemia patients]

OBJECTIVE

To explore prospective diagnostic criteria for preleukemia.

METHODS

A case control study of the discrepancies of clinical and laboratory features between patients with preleukemia and those with chronic aplastic anemia (CAA) or atypical paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglubinuria (a-PNH).

RESULTS

There were eight variables of significance: (1) lymphocytoid micromegakaryocytes in marrow; (2) immature granulocytes in peripheral blood; (3) >or= 2% myeloblasts in marrow; (4) positive periodic acid schiff (PAS) staining of nucleated erythrocytes; (5) myeloid differentiation index >or= 1.8; (6) clonal karyotypic abnormalities; (7) negative sister chromatid differentiation; (8) > 4.0 cluster/colony ratio of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming units (CFU-GM). The following criteria was assigned: A: To meet (1) and at least two of the other seven variables; B: To meet at least four of the eight variables. All of the patients with preleukemia met A or B and none of the patients with CAA or a-PNH did.

CONCLUSION

Preleukemia is different from CAA or a-PNH. It has its own clinical and laboratory features, which may be useful for prospective diagnosis.

[Study of the expression and function of c-kit receptor on the bone marrow mononuclear cells of the patients with myelodysplastic syndromes]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the expression and function of c-kit receptor on bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNC) of the patients with myelodysplastic syndromes.

METHODS

c-kit protein (CD(117)) was detected by direct immunofluorescence assay, c-kit mRNA by reverse transcriptive polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and the function of c-kit receptor by cell culture.

RESULTS

c-kit protein expression in MDS was significantly higher than that in control [(8.58 +/- 5.28)% vs (3.04 +/- 1.49)%, P < 0.05]. c-kit protein expression in RA patients was significantly lower than that in RAEB/RAEB-t patients [(5.12 +/- 2.13)% vs (10.01 +/- 5.07)%, P < 0.05]. The rate of c-kit protein expression was (32.43 +/- 18.16)% in AML cases transformed from MDS (t-AML). c-kit mRNA expression in MDS was correlated with c-kit protein expression. Addition of interleukin-3 (IL-3), erythropoietin (Epo) and stem cell factor (SCF) to the semi-solid culture of BMMNC showed significant stimulating effects on CFU-GM and BFU-E formation in normal controls, but did not in MDS patients.

CONCLUSION

The protein and mRNA expressions of c-kit receptor on BMMNC in MDS are higher than those in normal control, and the function of this receptor in MDS is abnormal.

[Establishment and identification of B cell lines with PNH phenotype]

OBJECTIVE

To establish B cell lines from patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and normal controls.

METHODS

B lymphoid cells prepared from PNH patients and normal controls were infected with EB virus. Phenotype of the immortal cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. The immunomagnetic beads were used to select CD(55)(-) and CD(59)(-) B lymphoid cells, which were cloned by limiting dilution. The clonality of the cloned cells was confirmed by testing the pattern of Ig rearrangements using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

From 2 PNH patients and 2 normal controls, CD(55)(-) and CD(59)(-) B lymphoblastoid cell lines were established which had PNH phenotype and normal phenotype, respectively.

CONCLUSION

B lymphoid cell lines from PNH patients can be obtained by EB virus infection.

Diazepam-binding inhibitor mediates feedback regulation of pancreatic secretion and postprandial release of cholecystokinin

Recently, we isolated a trypsin-sensitive cholecystokinin-releasing peptide (CCK-RP) from porcine and rat intestinal mucosa. The amino acid sequence of this peptide was determined to be identical to that of the diazepam-binding inhibitor (DBI). To test the role of DBI in pancreatic secretion and responses to feeding, we used pancreaticobiliary and intestinal cannula to divert bile-pancreatic juice from anesthetized rats. Within 2 hours, this treatment caused a 2-fold increase in pancreatic protein output and a >10-fold increase in plasma CCK. Luminal DBI levels increased 4-fold. At 5 hours after diversion of bile-pancreatic juice, each of these measures returned to basal levels. Intraduodenal infusion of peptone evoked a 5-fold increase in the concentration of luminal DBI. In separate studies, we demonstrated that intraduodenal administration of antiserum to a DBI peptide specifically abolished pancreatic secretion and the increase in plasma CCK levels after diversion of bile-pancreatic juice. To demonstrate that DBI mediates the postprandial rise in plasma CCK levels, we showed that intraduodenal administration of 5% peptone induced dramatic increases in pancreatic secretion and plasma CCK, effects that could be blocked by intraduodenal administration of anti-DBI antiserum. Hence, DBI, a trypsin-sensitive CCK-RP secreted from the proximal small bowel, mediates the feedback regulation of pancreatic secretion and the postprandial release of CCK.

Cell signaling in bovine ciliary epithelial organ culture

The ciliary epithelium secretes aqueous humor, an intraocular fluid whose production is regulated in part by transmembrane signaling pathways including those mediated by G protein-coupled receptors. Many drugs, such as beta-adrenergic receptor (AR) antagonists and alpha2-AR agonists, are used to lower intraocular pressure by presumably decreasing fluid transport across this epithelium. Hence, our purpose was to establish a ciliary epithelial organ culture system suitable for the study of cell signaling pathways. A trypsin-mediated dissection method was established to isolate bovine ciliary epithelial sheets. These sheets were cultured in a 5% CO2 incubator. The quality was assessed by light microscopy, by protein analysis, and by the evaluation of epinephrine-mediated phosphoinositide turnover. The cultured epithelial explants were viable as evidenced by minimal trypan blue staining. The explants were composed primarily of nonpigmented cells and some pigmented cells, but no other ciliary body tissues were present on histology. Membrane preparations showed proteins with a distribution from 31 to 116 kDa. Epinephrine caused a dose-dependent increase in [3H]inositol phosphates (InsPs) accumulation with a maximal increase of two- to three-fold over basal levels. This epinephrine-mediated increase was inhibited by prazosin. We established an organ culture system of isolated bovine ciliary epithelium suitable for the study of transmembrane signaling pathways.

Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1 genes in pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes and post-MDS acute myeloid leukemia

OBJECTIVE

To investigate expression of Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1 genes in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and post-MDS acute myeloid leukemia (post-MDS AML), and its role in pathogenesis or progression of MDS and post-MDS AML.

METHODS

Expression of Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1 genes was examined in 31 MDS, 11 post-MDS AML, and 34 de novo AML patients by a semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Evi-1 expression was not detected in bone marrow samples of 8 normal controls, but low MDS1-Evi-1 expression levels (MDS1-Evi-1/GAPDH < 0.1) were detected in 3 of the 8 controls. Evi-1 RNA was expressed in 1 of 8 RA, 8 of 13 RAEB and 6 of 9 RAEB-T patients, and the percentage of Evi-1 expression in RAEB(T) patients was higher than that in RA (P < 0.05). MDS1-Evi-1 expression was detected in 5 of 8 RA, 9 of 13 RAEB and 5 of 9 RAEB-T patients, and MDS1-Evi-1 expression levels (MDS1-Evi-1/GAPDH > 0.1) were markedly higher than those in the controls. Evi-1 expression was gradually increased in 4 of 5 RAEB-T patients with transformation from MDS to AML. The percentages of Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1 expression in post-MDS AML patients were significantly (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 respectively) higher than those in de novo AML. The colonies of hematopoietic progenitor cells were decreased in Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1-positive MDS patients as compared with those in Evi-1 and MDS1-Evi-1-negative patients.

CONCLUSION

Abnormal expression of the Evi-1 gene and overexpression of MDS1-Evi-1 gene may play a role in the pathogenesis or progression of MDS and post-MDS AML.

[Ultrasonic and CT diagnosis of large upper abdominal mass]

OBJECTIVE

To assess accuracy of ultrasonic (US) and CT diagnosis of big mass in the upper abdomen.

METHODS

Data from 38 clinically and pathologically confirmed cases were retrospectively analyzed and accuracy of their preoperative US and CT diagnosis compared.

RESULTS

US diagnosis was correct in 3 of 9 (33.3%) cases with a mass in the liver, in 16 of 21 (76.2%) cases with a mass in the adrenal gland and in 2 of 4 cases with a mass in the kidney. In contrast, CT diagnosis was correct in 2 of 9 (22.2%) cases with a mass in the liver, in 4 of 18 (22.2%) cases with a mass in the adrenal gland and none in a case with a mass in the kidney. In 4 cases with a mass in the spleen, neither US nor CT diagnosis was correct.

CONCLUSION

Because organs in the upper abdomen are closely located with each other, correct imaging localization of big mass in this region is not without difficulty. In this series, accuracy of diagnosis with US and CT is comparable, but for localizing tumor in the adrenal gland, US imaging seems superior. US and CT are both incapable of accurately diagnosing large mass in the spleen.

Evolutionary relationship between K(+) channels and symporters

The hypothesis is presented that at least four families of putative K(+) symporter proteins, Trk and KtrAB from prokaryotes, Trk1,2 from fungi, and HKT1 from wheat, evolved from bacterial K(+) channel proteins. Details of this hypothesis are organized around the recently determined crystal structure of a bacterial K(+) channel: i. e., KcsA from Streptomyces lividans. Each of the four identical subunits of this channel has two fully transmembrane helices (designated M1 and M2), plus an intervening hairpin segment that determines the ion selectivity (designated P). The symporter sequences appear to contain four sequential M1-P-M2 motifs (MPM), which are likely to have arisen from gene duplication and fusion of the single MPM motif of a bacterial K(+) channel subunit. The homology of MPM motifs is supported by a statistical comparison of the numerical profiles derived from multiple sequence alignments formed for each protein family. Furthermore, these quantitative results indicate that the KtrAB family of symporters has remained closest to the single-MPM ancestor protein. Strong sequence evidence is also found for homology between the cytoplasmic C-terminus of numerous bacterial K(+) channels and the cytoplasm-resident TrkA and KtrA subunits of the Trk and KtrAB symporters, which in turn are homologous to known dinucleotide-binding domains of other proteins. The case for homology between bacterial K(+) channels and the four families of K(+) symporters is further supported by the accompanying manuscript, in which the patterns of residue conservation are demonstrated to be similar to each other and consistent with the known 3D structure of the KcsA K(+) channel.

Management of allogeneic bone marrow transplant recipients at risk for cytomegalovirus disease using a surveillance bronchoscopy and prolonged pre-emptive ganciclovir therapy

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT) are considered to be at increased risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease if they and/or their donor are CMV seropositive pre-transplant. Although several pre-emptive strategies have been shown to be effective in preventing early CMV disease, the ability of pre-emptive strategies using prolonged ganciclovir therapy to reduce the incidence of late-onset CMV infection, disease and mortality has not been fully evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of 18 weeks of pre-emptive ganciclovir therapy in preventing late-onset (> 100 days post-transplant) CMV disease when administered to asymptomatic BMT patients found to have CMV in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained during a surveillance bronchoscopy approximately 35 days post-transplant. To determine whether or not survival of BMT recipients is influenced by pre-transplant donor and recipient CMV serostatus in the context of this pre-emptive ganciclovir strategy.

STUDY DESIGN

Consecutive patients undergoing allogeneic BMT were assessed for their risk of developing CMV disease based on their pre-transplant CMV serostatus and that of their donor. Patients who were CMV seropositive and/or received marrow from a CMV seropositive donor underwent a surveillance bronchoscopy and BAL approximately 35 days post-transplant. Patients with positive BAL fluid for CMV received pre-emptive ganciclovir therapy for 18 weeks at decreasing dose levels. Patients considered to be at low risk for the development of CMV disease (donor and recipient CMV seronegative) were followed without intervention.

RESULTS

Of 98 consecutive patients, 55 were considered to be at risk for CMV disease and underwent a surveillance bronchoscopy. Sixteen (29%) patients had a positive BAL fluid for CMV and were started on pre-emptive ganciclovir therapy. Two patients progressed and died with CMV-related pneumonia. One additional patient developed CMV-related enteritis on day 42 post-transplant and recovered with continuing ganciclovir treatment. Of the 39 patients with a negative BAL fluid for CMV, one developed a fatal CMV pneumonia 150 days post-transplant and two additional patients developed gastrointestinal CMV disease 28 and 57 days post-BMT, respectively. None of the patients in the low risk group developed CMV disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The strategy utilizing a surveillance bronchoscopy for CMV and initiating prolonged (18 weeks) pre-emptive ganciclovir therapy for patients with a positive BAL fluid for CMV resulted in a low incidence of CMV-related post-transplant complications. After a minimum follow-up of 16 months, late CMV reactivations (occurring > 100 days post-transplant) were not observed in the group of individuals pre-emptively treated with ganciclovir. This observation suggests that prolonged therapy with a reduced dose of ganciclovir may be important in the prevention of CMV reactivation. The CMV serostatus of donors and recipients prior to BMT did not correlate with survival.

[E-CD expression and its clinical significance in human bladder carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To invest the expression of the E-CD protein and its clinical significance in human recurrent bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

METHODS

Immunohistological chemistry method was employed to assess the expression of E-CD in 54 cases of bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

RESULTS

Decreased E-CD expression correlated with both increased grade and stage (chi(2) = 6.65, P < 0.05; chi(2) = 7.15, P < 0.01). More importantly, abnormal expression of E-CD correlated with the high recurrence in short time and the poor survival (chi(2) = 4.88, P < 0.05; Log-rank test: chi(2) = 4.6, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of E-CD is an useful parameter of malignancy of carcinoma. The detection of E-CD expression might be significant in determining the malignancy, recurrence and prognosis of bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

Multifrequency grating projection profilometry based on the nonlinear excess fraction method

Although promised to be a fast and accurate three-dimensional shape measurement technique, grating projection profilometry based on phase measurement has been frequently baffled by the difficulty in phase unwrapping. We introduce the conventional excess fraction method into profilometry and extend it to nonlinear domain. Nonlinear excess fraction method (NLEFM), on the basis of which a multifrequency grating projection profilometry is developed, can work as a robust temporal phase unwrapper, which may extend the reliable measuring range by dozens of times at no cost of accuracy. The principle of NLEFM is detailed, and experimental results are given in which complex profiles are reliably measured with the novel system.

Differential expression of antiapoptotic gene BAG-1 in human breast normal and cancer cell lines and tissues

BAG-1 is an antiapoptotic protein that binds to and enhances the antiapoptotic activity of Bcl-2. It binds several growth factor and hormone receptors and modulates their function. BAG-1 was also shown recently to be expressed as four protein isoforms, p50, p46, p33, and p29, through alternative translation initiation. Although many apoptosis-associated genes have been linked to oncogenesis of human breast cancer, the role of BAG-1 has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the expression of BAG-1 RNA or protein isoforms and its interacting antiapoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and BcI-X(L), in breast normal and tumor cell lines and tissues by Northern or Western blot analysis. We provide convincing evidence that both BAG-1 RNA and protein are overexpressed in human breast cancer cell lines. More importantly, we found that the expression of two isoforms of BAG-1, p46 and p33, was also much higher in breast primary tumors. The expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-X(L) correlated with that of BAG-1 in breast normal and carcinoma cell lines but not tissues. Our study suggests that BAG-1 isoforms may serve as a molecular marker, independent of Bcl-2 and Bcl-X(L), for human breast cancer.

[Observation of the anterior ischemic optic neuropathy by color Doppler flow imaging]

OBJECTIVE

To study the characteristics of color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) in anterior optic neuropathy (AION).

METHODS

Forty eyes of 25 patients clinically diagnosed to have progressive AION were studied by using CDFI. The peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), time averaged maximum velocity (TAMV) and resistance index (RI) of the central retinal artery (CRA), nasal and temporal posterior ciliary arteries (PCAs) and ophthalmic artery (OA) were detected. The diameter of retrobulbar optic nerve (ON) was detected at the same time. Thirty-four volunteers were served as the control group.

RESULTS

In the comparison with the control group, there were significantly reduced PSV, EDV and TAMV in PCAs (P < 0.001) and CRA (P < 0.001) and markedly increased RI in PCAs, CRA and OA in AION group. The retrobulbar optic nerve edema was found in 32/40 eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

The characteristics of reduced velocity and increased resistance index in retrobulbar arteries of the AION are demonstrated. CDFI is helpful to the diagnosis of AION.

[Relationship between GSTM1 genotype and susceptibility to senile cataract]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between the glutathione s-transferase gene deletion and cataract formation.

METHODS

Blood cells of total of 77 cases with senile cataract and 76 controls were detected for GSTM1 gene, and the subcapsular epithelial cells of 22 cataract lenses were also detected for GSTM1 gene.

RESULTS

The GSTM1 gene deletion rate in cataract group was 53.25% and that in the control group was 46.05%, they being not significantly different statistically (chi(2) = 0.750, P > 0.05, OR = 0.75). GSTM1 gene deletion rate in the subcapsular epithelial cells of 20 cases was basically consistent with that in blood cells.

CONCLUSION

GSTM1 gene deletion is not related to senile cataract formation.

Overexpression of anti-apoptotic gene BAG-1 in human cervical cancer

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process in which cells commit suicide under certain environmental conditions. Recent studies suggest that apoptosis is controlled by a variety of cellular genes, and dysregulation of these genes plays an important role in the pathogenesis of human diseases, including cancer. BAG-1 is a novel anti-apoptotic protein isolated by its interaction with another anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2. It binds to several hormone receptors and growth factor receptors and modulates their function in apoptosis. However, the role of BAG-1 in the oncogenesis of human cervical cancer has yet to be illustrated. In this study, we examined the expression of BAG-1 in cervical normal and carcinoma cultured cells and tissues. BAG-1 was overexpressed in human cervical carcinoma cell lines and tissues. Overexpression was regulated at the transcriptional level. The increased expression of BAG-1 was correlated with enhanced resistance of cervical carcinoma cells to apoptosis induced by a DNA-damaging reagent. In addition, overexpression of BAG-1 enhanced the resistance of cervical cells to apoptosis. This study provided the first evidence that BAG-1 is upregulated in human cervical cancer and may play an important role in apoptosis and human cervical carcinogenesis.

[Refractory anemia and preleukemia: an analysis of 92 cases]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between MDS-RA (refractory anemia subtype of myelodysplastic syndromes) and preleukemia (PL).

METHODS

Hematological parameters of 86 RA and 6 PL patients were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-four RA cases (39.53%) transformed into acute leukemia (AL), RA with excess blasts (RAEB), or RAEB in transformation (RAEB-t). As compared with 52 non-transformed RA cases, the transformed cases showed the following hematological features: 1. higher frequencies of immature granulocytes (P < 0.005), erythroblasts (P < 0.05) and megaloerythrocytes (P < 0.05), and higher granulocyte nuclear lobulation (P < 0.001) in peripheral blood; 2. higher percentages of early erythroid and granulocytic lineages (P < 0.05), and higher frequencies of erythroblasts with multiple nuclei (P < 0.05), pseudo Pelger-Huet abnormality (P < 0.05), and micromegakaryocytes (P < 0.005) in bone marrow.

CONCLUSION

There is a higher overlap between RA and PL; the above hematological features may be useful for predicting the transformation of RA patients. Based on those findings, a score system for predicting the transformation of RA was proposed.

[Present situation and future subjects of N.SAS study--based on experience of managing data center]

The "National Surgical Adjuvant Study" (N-SAS) was established as a study group on carcinostatics on the market as part of the Ministry of Health and Welfare's 1995/1996 consignment project. Patient registration started in October 1996, and later it was restructured as a consignment study by Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. in April 1997. It still continues to date. EPS Co., Ltd. has operated the "N.SAS Data Center" to conduct three clinical trials of N.SAS study. In the following, we analyse the current situation and subjects of N.SAS study from the viewpoint of the data center, recognising the necessity of infrastructure at medical institutions while complying with enforcement of newly GCP and GPMSP. First, the organization and function of N.SAS, and the role and position of data center on N.SAS study, are explained. Some notes are introduced from conducting In-house Monitoring on N.SAS, especially methods and formation of communicating information between N.SAS Data Center and institutions. We also propose an infrastructure which will be essential for smooth promotion of long-term and large-scale trials like the N.SAS study.

Killing effect of interleukin-2 and interferon-alpha activated leukemic bone marrow in remission on K562 leukemic cells

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the killing effect of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) activated bone marrow cells on K562 cells.

METHODS

Semi-solid colony and 3H-TdR incorporating method were used.

RESULTS

Bone marrow from leukemia patients in remission was activated in vitro with IL-2 for 3 days. The activated bone marrow (ABM) displayed killing effects of 0.31-2.30 logs on K562 cells. This killing effect was further increased to 0.30-3.15 logs when IFN-alpha added with IL-2 to the marrow for activation. IL-2 alone or in combination with IFN-alpha showed no inhibition of CFU-GM and K562 cells. Compared with IL-2 or IFN-alpha alone, the combination of the two cytokines could more effectively maintain the killing effect of ABM on leukemic cells.

CONCLUSIONS

IFN-alpha can augment the purging effect of IL-2 ABM and combination of the two cytokines can effectively maintain the cytotoxicity of ABM.

Outcomes of extremely premature infants related to their peak serum bilirubin concentrations and exposure to phototherapy

OBJECTIVES

To analyze, in extremely low birth weight infants, associations between peak bilirubin concentration and evidence of brain damage, and between peak bilirubin concentration and blindness attributable to retinopathy of prematurity.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 128 infants of </=800 g birth weight and </=27 weeks gestation born between 1980 and 1989 and discharged from a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. After screening analyses, multivariable analyses were conducted to identify associations between blindness and peak bilirubin concentration (dichotomized at different levels to create 3 binary variables), and between severe adverse neurodevelopmental outcome at 18 months postterm age and peak bilirubin levels.

RESULTS

Of 128 18-month survivors, 15 had severe visual loss attributable to retinopathy of prematurity, 21 had neurodevelopmental deficit, and 5 were deaf. Visual loss was significantly associated with low-peak serum bilirubin concentration (<9.4 mg/dL (<160 micromol/L) versus >/=9.4 mg/dL (odds ratio [OR] confidence interval [CI] 4.48 [1.15-17.43])), low gestational age (OR [CI] per week 1.95 [1.05-3.63]), and longer duration of phototherapy (OR [CI] per 10 hours 1.17 [1.02-1.33]). The association of neurodevelopmental impairment with grades 3 and 4 intraventricular hemorrhage was statistically significant (OR 5.39 [1.83-15.84]), but with high-peak serum bilirubin concentration >/=11.7 mg/dL (>/=200 micromol/L), was not significant (OR 2.89 [0. 87-9.53]).

CONCLUSIONS

In these infants, prolonged phototherapy and low-peak serum bilirubin concentrations were associated with severe visual loss attributable to retinopathy of prematurity. The findings should be interpreted with caution until the evidence is reinforced in other patient populations.

Intracellular transport of varicella-zoster glycoproteins

Previous observations have established that varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is enveloped in the trans-Golgi network (TGN) in cultures infected with VZV and that the glycoprotein gE is targeted to the TGN by a signal sequence (AYRV) and an acidic TGN signal patch in its cytosolic domain. Neither sequence is present in other VZV glycoproteins. Like gE, gI was targeted to the TGN when it was expressed in transfected cells, suggesting that gI also contains TGN targeting information (colocalized with gE and the AP-1 adaptin complex). In contrast, gB, gC, gH, and gL immunoreactivities were not detected in the TGN when they were expressed individually in transfected cells. In VZV-infected cells, gE, gI, gH, and gL were all concentrated in the TGN. Since VZV glycoproteins that lack targeting sequences (gB, gC, gH, and gL) concentrated in the TGN of infected cells, it is proposed that gE and gI, which have such sequences, serve as navigator glycoproteins, forming complexes that direct the signal-deficient glycoproteins to the TGN.

Anterior tibial artery and its actual projection on the lateral aspect of the tibia: a cadaveric study

The anterior tibial artery (ATA) is at risk of injury during high tibial osteotomy, Ilizarov wire placement, pin placement in external fixation, or proximal locking screw insertion, as the artery is not visualized intraoperatively. The ATA is anchored to the oval foramen of the interosseous membrane on the proximal tibia by the deep fascia and recurrent genicular vascular branches. Segment 1 (from the bifurcation of the popliteal artery to the level of the interosseous foramen) and the proximal part of segment 2 (from the interosseous foramen to the level where the artery crosses the anterior border of the tibia) may be damaged when pin, wire or screw placement is directed posterolaterally at that level. Distally, a straight mediolateral pin or Ilizarov wires may lacerate the artery. Segment 2 of the ATA descends against the interosseous membrane in its proximal part, which is projected on the posterior third of the tibia relative to the sagittal plane; in its middle part, it runs close to the lateral cortex of the tibia, it is projected on the middle third of the tibia; in its distal part it runs gradually towards the anterior third of the tibia and contacts with the anterior third of the tibial cortical surface. This information may help reduce risk of injury to the ATA during high tibial osteotomy, external fixation and pin placement or insertion of locking screws.

[Effect of Fusheng powder on activity of vascular endothelial cells and its adhesion to polymorphonuclear neutrophils]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of Fusheng powder on the adhesion of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) in human peripheral blood to vascular endothelial cells (VEC).

METHODS

Using cultured human umbilical vein cells as target cells, while being incubated with high glucose (HG, 30 mmol/L), high-lipid (HL, 20%), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha, 10%) and hypoxia (95% N2, 5% CO2, 37 degrees C, 30 min, and then in the air 30 min) for 24 h, respectively, the activity of VEC and the adhesive effect of PMN to VEC were surveyed.

RESULTS

It revealed that HG, HL, TNF-alpha and hypoxia could enhance obviously the adhesion of PMN to VEC, the cell attachment rate in normal control, HG group, TNF-alpha, hypoxia and HL after 30 minutes contact were 100%, 129.6%, 136.7%, 151.4% and 167.7% (all P < 0.01, compared with control group) respectively, but high and low dosage of the Fusheng powder could significantly inhibit the adhesion of PMN to VEC.

CONCLUSIONS

HG, HL, TNF-alpha and hypoxia could all activate EC respectively and enhance the adhesion of PMN to VEC, but the Fusheng powder could protect VEC and partly block the effect of this adhesion. However, the effects of Fusheng powder on anti-adhesion are of great importance in clinical cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases.

[The clinical value of intraoperative ultrasound of the liver]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate usefulness of intraoperative ultrasound of the liver.

METHODS

A 5.0 MHz ultrasound transducer was used to detect liver lesions, their number, location and relation to the intrahepatic blood vessels.

RESULTS

Forty two patients with primary liver tumors received intraoperative ultrasonographic examination. Liver tumor was resected in 29 patients(69.0%). The tumors in 4 patients were unresectable due to their close relationship to the hepatic vasculature as judged by the ultrasound image. Multiple lesions were found in 6 patients during operation.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative ultrasound of the liver is sensitive enough to detect most liver lesions and to locate them by liver segment which makes radical tumor resection possible. It is useful to define the tumor in relation to hepatic vasculature. It can compensate for missing lesions in preoperative imaging studies. Fenestration operation for liver abscess and intervention treatment for liver cysts can be performed during operation.

[Two-phase dynamic CT findings of gastric carcinoma and its value for tumor detection and gross classification]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the two-phase dynamic CT features of gastric carcinoma and to assess its usefulness for tumor detection and gross classification.

METHODS

Two-phase dynamic CT was performed in 63 cases of gastric carcinoma proved histologically by fibro-gastroscopic biopsy. CT features of gastric carcinoma, tumor detection, and gross classification were correlated with surgical and pathologic findings.

RESULTS

The detectability by two-phase enhanced CT scanning of early and advanced gastric carcinoma was 100% and 98.2%, respectively. The overall accuracy of gross classification for advanced carcinoma was 65.4%, but for early gastric carcinoma, it was 0. The accuracy of Borrmann type II, III, IV was 85.7%, 100%, 55.6%, respectively. In the first phase (early enhancing phase) CT scan, the manifestation of early gastric carcinoma included local thickening of gastric wall, moderate or marked heterogeneous enhancement of lesions in 4 cases and mild enhancement in the other 4 cases. Local or extensive thickening of gastric wall, with or without ulceration, moderate or marked heterogeneous enhancement in early enhancing phase were shown in advanced gastric carcinoma. In the second phase, the degree of tumor enhancement in advanced carcinoma was slightly higher than that of the normal part of gastric wall. There were 4 cases with mucinous adenocarcinoma, a target or laminary appearance was present in 3 cases, and intramural calcification was present in 2 cases.

CONCLUSION

1. Enhanced dynamic CT scan plays a significant role in the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma, early enhancing phase scanning is the technique of choice nowadays for demonstrating tumor lesions. 2. Sophisticated scanning technique is mandatory in improving the diagnostic accuracy of gastric carcinoma.

Human BAG-1/RAP46 protein is generated as four isoforms by alternative translation initiation and overexpressed in cancer cells

Previously, a Bcl-2-interacting protein, BAG-1, was cloned from mouse cells and was shown to interact with several other proteins and to be important for inhibition of apoptosis. Human BAG-1 (hBAG-1) cDNA, recently isolated by us and two other groups, has been shown to be identical to a hormone receptor-binding protein, RAP46. However, different molecular masses of hBAG-1 protein products were noted by these three groups. Here we demonstrated that hBAG-1 protein was expressed as four isoforms, designated p50, p46, p33 and p29, with apparent molecular masses of 50 kDa, 46 kDa, 33 kDa and 29 kDa, respectively. Deletion, site-directed mutagenesis and in vitro transcription/translation analysis showed that the four protein products of hBAG-1 were expressed by alternative initiation from four different start codons through a leaky scanning mechanism. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the distinct forms of hBAG-1 have different subcellular localizations, suggesting that they may have distinct functions in the cells. Characterization of hBAG-1 RNA and protein also showed that hBAG-1 was overexpressed in human cervical, breast and lung cancer cell lines. Taken together, these data clarify the conflicting observations reported in the literature and suggest that hBAG-1 is expressed as four forms of protein products, which may play a differential role in apoptosis and oncogenesis of human cells.