[A molecular cytogenetic study on chromosome anomalies of chronic myeloid leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To study the bcr/abl fusion gene in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cases with Philadelphia chromosome(Ph) negative, and variant Ph translocations and other chromosome anomalies.

METHODS

The status of bcr/abl fusion gene in 8 kinds of chromosome anomalies was tested with dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization (D-FISH) technique.

RESULTS

The positive hybridization was demonstrated in 3 cases of variant Ph CML and other 7 cases of standard Ph, respectively. In 2 cases of Ph-negative CML, one case that had karyotype such as 46,XY,t(9;18) showed positive hybridization, the other case with 46,XY,inv(2) showed negative result.

CONCLUSION

The result demonstrates that D-FISH technique is reliable for detecting bcr/abl fusion gene. The existence of negative bcr/abl fusion gene CML implies that some other initial events inducing CML might have occurred in such cases.

[Presence and replication of TTV DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from hepatitis patients with TTV infection]

OBJECTIVE

To study the presence and replication of TTV DNA in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from hepatitis patients with TTV infection.

METHODS

Nested-PCR (nPCR) was performed for detecting the TTV DNA from the sera, PBMCs and feces of 16 patients with non-A to non-G hepatitis in Beijing Ditan Hospital from Oct. 1997 to Oct. 1998. PBMC DNAs were aslo digested by mung bean nuclease and amplified by nPCR to clasify if TTV DNA was still positive. nPCR products of the sera, PBMCs and feces of 5 hepatitis patients with non-A to non-G hepatitis were cloned and sequenced.

RESULTS

14 of the 16 samples of PBMC and 5 of the 16 samples of the feces were TTV DNA positive. Two of the 14 samples of the PBMC were still positive after the digestion and amplification of the single-stand DNA. Sequence analysis showed that there was more than 95% nucleotide homology among the sequenced 5 clones (from the sera, PBMC and feces of the 5 patients) and reported AB008394 (from Japan) and AF079173 (from China). Virus loading of patients whose feces were positive by nPCR was obviously more than the patients with negative TTV DNA.

CONCLUSION

TTV DNA can exist and replicate in the PBMC; the hepatocytes of patients with TTV infection are not the only place of TTV existence and replication.

[The influence of different root length on stress distribution in the bone around abutment root of telescopic overdenture]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the influence of bone height around the roots on stress distribution in a mandible with two canines remained and covered with an telescopic overdenture.

METHODS

Three-dimensional finite element method.

RESULTS

As the height of the bone around the roots decreased, the stress increased. But the maximum stress in the bone in this study is lower than that in the bone around the canine under normal condition.

CONCLUSION

In the mandible, when the alveolar bone resorption reaches the apical 1/3 of canine (root length 4, 5 mm), if part of the tooth crown was removed, to make an acceptable crown/root ratio, so the canine can be used as the abutment of an overdenture.

CUL-2 is required for the G1-to-S-phase transition and mitotic chromosome condensation in Caenorhabditis elegans

The human cullin protein CUL-2 functions in a ubiquitin-ligase complex with the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumour suppressor protein. Here we show that, in Caenorhabditis elegans, cul-2 is expressed in proliferating cells and is required at two distinct points in the cell cycle, the G1-to-S-phase transition and mitosis. cul-2 mutant germ cells undergo a G1-phase arrest that correlates with accumulation of CKI-1, a member of the CIP/KIP family of cyclin-dependent-kinase inhibitors. In cul-2 mutant embryos, mitotic chromosomes are unable to condense, leading to unequal DNA segregation, chromosome bridging and the formation of multiple nuclei.

234Th and 7Be as tracers for transport and sources of particle-associated contaminants in the Hudson River Estuary

The natural radionuclides 234Th and 7Be have known sources in estuaries and strongly and rapidly associate with particles. They are thus good tracers of the transport and sources of particles in the suspended sediment reservoir, and, by implication, of particle-associated contaminants such as heavy metals. In the Hudson River estuary, 234Th is produced from decay of dissolved 238U, which varies linearly with salinity, while 7Be is added directly to the estuary from the atmosphere. The 234Th/7Be activity ratio eliminates variations in radionuclide specific activities that result from changes in sediment grain size or composition. Sampling in the Hudson under conditions of low and high river flow shows that 234Th/7Be in suspended sediment increases from low salinity to higher salinity waters at all sampling times. The Th/Be activity ratio may thus be used as a tracer of where particles are labeled with these radionuclides in the estuary and of the relative importance of resuspension and particle transport through the estuary. The distribution of heavy metals in the suspended sediment reservoir can be compared with that of 234Th/7Be by normalizing the metals to Fe. Iron and Al are well correlated in suspended sediments of the Hudson, indicating that either element can be used to normalize grain size effects on specific concentrations of metals. Ratios of Ag and Pb to Fe in suspended particles generally increase down-estuary at all sampling times, whereas Cu, Zn and Cd-to-Fe ratios show more scatter and less consistency in trends. Both source(s) and chemical behavior affect the metal/Fe ratios. The strongest positive correlation with 234Th/7Be is seen for Ag/Fe, reflecting the dominance of lower estuary sources of this trace metal to the Hudson. Relationships between Pb/Fe, Cu/Fe and 234Th/7Be are less strong, reflecting multiple sources of these elements. No correlation is seen for Cd/Fe with 234Th/7Be, indicating either a source up-river or release of Cd as its Kd decreases with increasing salinity.

Characterization of the targeting, binding, and phosphorylation site domains of an A kinase anchor protein and a myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate-like analog that are encoded by a single gene

A novel Drosophila A kinase anchor protein, Drosophila A kinase anchor protein 200 (DAKAP200), is predicted to be involved in routing, mediating, and integrating signals carried by cAMP, Ca(2+), and diacylglycerol (Li, Z., Rossi, E. A., Hoheisel, J. D., Kalderon, D., and Rubin, C. S. (1999) J. Biol. Chem. 274, 27191-27200). Experiments designed to assess this hypothesis now (a) establish the function, boundaries and identity of critical amino acids of the protein kinase AII (PKAII) tethering site of DAKAP200; (b) demonstrate that residues 119-148 mediate binding with Ca(2+)-calmodulin and F-actin; (c) show that a polybasic region of DAKAP200 is a substrate for protein kinase C; (d) reveal that phosphorylation of the polybasic domain regulates affinity for F-actin and Ca(2+)-calmodulin; and (e) indicate that DAKAP200 is myristoylated and that this modification promotes targeting of DAKAP200 to plasma membrane. DeltaDAKAP200, a second product of the DAKAP200 gene, cannot tether PKAII. However, DeltaDAKAP200 is myristoylated and contains a phosphorylation site domain that binds Ca(2+)-calmodulin and F-actin. An atypical amino acid composition, a high level of negative charge, exceptional thermostability, unusual hydrodynamic properties, properties of the phosphorylation site domain, and a calculated M(r) of 38,000 suggest that DeltaDAKAP200 is a new member of the myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate protein family. DAKAP200 is a potentially mobile, chimeric A kinase anchor protein-myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate protein that may facilitate localized reception and targeted transmission of signals carried by cAMP, Ca(2+), and diacylglycerol.

[Synergistic interaction between Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline compound derived from Stephania tetrandra, and adriamycin or vincristine against human cancer cell lines in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To study in vitro the anticancer interaction between Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline compound derived from Stephania tetrandra, and adriamycin or vincristine against human cancer cell lines.

METHOD

Using human breast cancer cell MCF-7 and its adriamycin-resistant cell line MCF-7/Adr, and human nasopharyngeal cancer cell KB and its vincristine-resistant cell line KBv200 in an in vitro system, anticancer interaction between Ys-96 and adriamycin or vincristine was evaluated with a method reported by Berenbaum.

RESULT

The SFIC values (sum of fractional inhibitory concentration) of the combinations with 3 different ratios between Ys-96 and adriamycin or vincristine were markedly less than 1.0, and the shapes of all the isobologram curves were concave.

CONCLUSION

The synergistic interaction between Ys-96 and adriamycin or vincristine against the above human cancer cell lines was positively observed in vitro.

Development of an immunocontraceptive vaccine. Current status

Development of an effective and modern contraceptive vaccine is a key factor in the global issue of regional population growth as well as agricultural, medical, economic and social development. A review was done of the current medical literature concerning development of an immunocontraceptive vaccine and relative molecular biology technology. Various approaches have been taken to identify candidate-specific antigens for immunocontraceptive development, such as sperm, zona pellucida and hormonal antigens. Suppressed fertility and the reversibility of these effects on mammalian species, including humans, have been demonstrated. The successful results obtained so far support the continued investigation for an effective immunocontraceptive vaccine.

[A study on polymorphism of mitochondrial DNA D loop in the Han nationality in China]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the polymorphism of mitochondrial DNA D loop in the Han nationality in China and the mean nucleic acid substitute frequency on each site.

METHODS

A 465bp-long DNA fragment in mtDNA D loop was amplified by PCR technique and the polymorphism was analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using 6 restriction enzymes (on 10 sites). Some samples were analyzed by direct sequencing of PCR products.

RESULTS

RFLP analyses with 6 restriction enzymes on the 10 sites generated 14 restriction types. The calculated mean nucleic acid substitute frequency (based on Nei formula) on each site of mtDNA D loop in the Han nationality in China was 0.029.

CONCLUSION

The mean nucleic acid substitute frequency on each site in the D loop region was 10 times as high as that in mtDNA.

[The design of a multi-parameter patient monitor]

This paper describes the software and hardware design of a multi-parameter patient monitor which is able to measure ECG, heart rate, blood pressure, breath rate, body temperature and oxygen saturation non-invasively. The instrument uses embedded industry control module as its main controller and 9" CRT as its display. Several OEM modules are utilized in the design, such as ECG module, blood pressure module and oximeter module. This design strategy has the features of reliable performance, easy maintenance, and short developing period.

Over-expression of the RAB5 gene in human lung adenocarcinoma cells with high metastatic potential

The objective of this study is to better understand the molecular mechanism of tumor invasion and metastasis, and isolating tumor metastasis-related genes. Two human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines AGZY-83a and Anip973 were studied. Anip973 was derived from AGZY-83a, but it manifested a very much higher metastatic potential than the parent line. Differential cDNA fragments were isolated by using the techniques of mRNA differential display, and analyzed by means of molecular cloning and sequencing. The expression of RAB5A gene in clinical samples of non-small cell lung cancer was determined by RT-PCR. There were significant differences between AGZY-83a and Anip973 in gene expression. Part of the differential cDNA fragments were cloned and sequenced. We found that there was over-expression of RAB5A gene in the Anip973 cell line. And there was over-expression of RAB5A gene in those samples of clinical lung cancer showing metastasis. In conclusion, the expression or over-expression of RAB5A gene was associated with the metastatic phenotype of Anip973. Probably, over-expression of RAB5A gene in non-small lung cancer may serve as a diagnostic marker for metastasis.

[The levels of renin activity, angiotensin converting enzyme and angiotensin II in cirrhotic patients with ascites undergoing portacaval shunt]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes of plasma renin activity (PRA), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II and portal venous pressure (PVP) in cirrhotic patients with ascites undergoing portacaval shunt.

METHODS

Serum PRA, ACE, A II levels in portal vein, artery, peripheral vein and PVP were measured in 16 cirrhotic patients with ascites before and after portacaval shunts and in control group of 16 cases of gastrointestinal carcinoma. By light colorimetric analysis and radio-immunization assay.

RESULTS

PRA, ACE, A II levels and PVP of pre- and after portacaval shunt were significantly higher in cirrhotic patients than the control group (P < 0.05), and they were significantly decreased after the shunt in the cirrhotic patients (P < 0.05). The PVP was in positive correlation to the levels of serum ACE in cirrhotic patients (r = 0.48, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of serum PRA, ACE, A II and PVP decreased significantly in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension after portacaval shunts. It may be major causes of ascites disappearance in cirrhotic patients after portacaval shunt.

Muscle cell peeling from micropatterned collagen: direct probing of focal and molecular properties of matrix adhesion

To quantitatively elucidate attributes of myocyte-matrix adhesion, muscle cells were controllably peeled from narrow strips of collagen-coated glass. Initial growth of primary quail myoblasts on collagen strips was followed by cell alignment, elongation and end-on fusion between neighbors. This geometric influence on differentiation minimized lateral cell contact and cell branching, enabling detailed study of myocyte-matrix adhesion. A micropipette was used to pull back one end of a quasi-cylindrical cell while observing in detail the non-equilibrium detachment process. Peeling velocities fluctuated as focal roughness, microm in scale, was encountered along the detachment front. Nonetheless, mean peeling velocity (microm/second) generally increased with detachment force (nN), consistent with forced disruption of adhesion bonds. Immunofluorescence of beta1-integrins correlated with the focal roughness and appeared to be clustered in axially extended focal contacts. In addition, the peeling forces and rates were found to be moderately well described by a dynamical peeling model for receptor-based adhesion (Dembo, M., Torney, D. C., Saxman, K. and Hammer, D. (1988). Proc. R. Soc. Lond. B 234, 55–83). Estimates were thereby obtained for the spontaneous, molecular off-rate (kooff, (less than or equal to)10/seconds) and the receptor complex stiffness (kappa, approx. 10(−5)-10(−6) N/m) of adherent myocytes. Interestingly, the local stiffness is within the range of flexible proteins of the spectrin superfamily. The overall approach lends itself to elucidating the developing function of other structural and adhesive components of cells, particularly skeletal muscle cells with specialized components, such as the spectrin-homolog dystrophin and its membrane-linked receptor dystroglycan.

Identification of two major histocompatibility complex class Ib genes, Q7 and Q9, as the Ped gene in the mouse

The Ped (preimplantation embryonic development) gene influences the rate of preimplantation embryonic development and subsequent embryonic survival. The protein product of the Ped gene, the Qa-2 protein, is a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class Ib protein. There are two alleles of the Ped gene, fast (Qa-2 [+]) and slow (Qa-2 [-]). Qa-2 is encoded by four very similar MHC class Ib genes: Q6, Q7, Q8, and Q9. Recent research in our laboratory has shown that the Ped phenotype is potentially encoded by the Q7 and/or Q9 gene because the Q7 and Q9 genes, but not the Q6 or Q8 gene, are expressed during preimplantation mouse embryonic development. In this study we utilized microinjection of transgenes to assess the functional roles of both the Q7 and Q9 genes in control of the rate of preimplantation development. The Q7 gene, the Q9 gene, and a combination of the Q7 and Q9 genes were microinjected into Ped slow zygotes, and the Ped phenotype and cell surface expression of Qa-2 protein were assayed after a 72-h or 96-h incubation period. We found that the microinjected individual Q7 and Q9 genes increased the rate of preimplantation development. Simultaneous injection of the Q7 and Q9 genes did not have a synergistic effect on the Ped phenotype. Microinjection of the Q7 and/or Q9 genes resulted in protein expression in 10-25% of the microinjected embryos. These results show that both the Q7 and Q9 genes encode the mouse Ped phenotype.

[RAB5A, a gene possibly related to metastasis of human carcinoma of the lung and stomach]

OBJECTIVE

To study and isolate tumor metastasis-related genes, and to explore the molecular basis of metastasis of lung and gastric carcinoma.

METHODS

Using mRNA differential display technique, cDNA cloning and sequencing, RT-PCR, Northern blot and immunocytochemical methods, genes differentially expressed between human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines AGZY83-a and Anip973 were detected. Anip973 was isolated from AGZY83-a with much higher metastatic potential than the parent line.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in gene expression between the two cell lines. RAB5A was one of the genes differentially expressed in Anip973 cells. Its gene product is a GTP-binding protein. Paraffin sections of 33 lung carcinoma and 47 gastric carcinoma specimens were examined immunohistochemically. Expression of RAB5A was positive in 87.9% of NSCLC and 91.5% of gastric cancer specimens examined (P < 0.05), and correlated with their metastatic potential and differentiation degree of gastric carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

RAB5A is possibly a metastasis-related gene.

[Plasma level of glucagon in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension during operation of portacaval shunts]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the plasma level of glucagon in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension during operation of portacaval shunts.

METHODS

Plasma level of glucagon in the portal venous, peripheral venous and arterial blood in cirrhotic patients (n = 16) and control patients (n = 16) was measured by radioimmunoassay respectively.

RESULTS

The glucagon ratio (pg/ml) of the hepatic cirrhosis group before, during after operation 3 days after operation, 7 days after operation was observed portal venous blood: (189.2 +/- 58.7) pg/ml, (196.1 +/- 54.2) pg/ml vs. (101.9 +/- 44.8) pg/ml, (98.2 +/- 34.1) pg/ml (P < 0.01); peripheral venous blood (184.1 +/- 48.2) pg/ml, (187.5 +/- 42.8) pg/ml vs. (102.4 +/- 34.7) pg/ml, (95.2 +/- 24.9) pg/ml (P < 0.01); arterial blood: (186.3 +/- 51.3) pg/ml, (183.5 +/- 54.2) pg/ml vs. (103.4 +/- 36.3) pg/ml, (93.9 +/- 30.6) pg/ml (P < 0.01). The portal vein pressure was positively correlated to the plasma level of glucagon in portal venous blood of cirrhosis (r = 0.57, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglucagonemia may be caused by the decreased glucagon metabolism in cirrhotic liver and hypersecretion of pancreas and the gastrointestinal tract. Hyperglucagonemia may be amended after portacaval shunts.

[Effect of low dose gamma-irradiation and cigarette smoking on growth and reflex behavior in mice]

Pregnant mice were exposed to different level of gamma-irradiation(60Co 0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 Gy) and water solutions containing different contents of substance from cigarette smoke(0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 cigarette/mouse). Results showed that the effect of low dose gamma-irradiation and high concentration cigarette smoke substance could delay the appearance of four physiological markers (eye opening, pinna detachment, hair growth and tooth growth) and the acquisition of four reflexes(surface righting, air righting, virual placing and auditory orienting). A significant combined effect was also observed.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis and comparison of stress distribution in overdentures supported with bar attachments and telescopic crowns

OBJECTIVE

To determine which one of the overdenture (OD) retainers was more beneficial to the abutments--the bar or the telescopic crown--and if a tooth could be used as an OD abutment when the supporting bone decreased to half of the root.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The three-dimensional finite element method was used to investigate the stress distribution in a mandible with an overdenture supported by the roots of two canines. The two teeth were either connected with a bar attachment or restored with telescopic crowns, and were then restored with a complete overdenture. For each type of superstructure, the influence of bone height around the roots (no alveolar resorption and resorption to half of the root length) was analyzed under three loading conditions.

RESULTS

The most extreme stress values were located at the alveolar ridge crest of the bone around the root of the abutment. In the case of anterior loading, the largest compressive stress (LCS) in telescopic crown overdenture (TOD) was lower. When loaded posteriorly there was no obvious difference between bar attachment overdenture (BOD) and TOD. At the alveolar ridge crest around the root of the abutment, the stress value in the model with decreased bone level was higher than in the model with normal bone level, but the range was not significant.

CONCLUSION

1. In terms of stress in the alveolar bone, complete overdenture over telescopic crowns is more convenient than over bar attachments. 2. Stress increases as the height of the bone around the roots decreases, but the increment is less than 30%. It is important for an abutment with bone resorption to perform root amputation to obtain an acceptable crown/root ratio.

[Spectroscopic assay, chemical modification and activity of three kinds of polyoses]

Infrared spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of chitosan, pachyman and amorphalls mannan were studied. The difference among the infrared spectra of chitosan under different conditions was disscused. The modification of Methylolation of the three kinds of polyoses was made and the relationship between the chemical modification and the antitumor activity was also studied.

[New diterpenoids, isodoternifolins A and B, from Isodon ternifolius]

Two new diterpenoids, named isodoternifolin A and B, together with seven known compounds were isolated from the ethanol extract of dried stems and leaves of Isodon ternifolius (D. Don) Kudo. Their structures were determined as 7 beta-hydroxy-6 beta, 11 alpha, 15 beta-triacetoxy-7 alpha, 20-epoxyentkaur-16-ene (1) and 6 beta, 7 beta, 15 beta-trihydroxy-11 alpha-acetoxy-7 alpha, 20-epoxy-entkaur-16-ene (2) by chemical and spectral evidence.

[Establishment and discretization of human torso computer images for ECG simulation]

The establishment and discretization of human torso computer image is an important aspect in studying of ECG simulation. A rapid and effective method is presented in this paper, which establishes and discretes image of human torso exactly by curve fitting and by introducing concept of "nihility point". It also has some value for solving problem of discreting field region in numerical calculation of electromagnetic field.

[Study on induced mutagenesis interaction of the high temperature and/or cigarette smoke]

The study aim is to research the genotoxicity and interaction of the High temperature and/or cigarette smoke. The micronucleus of human lymphocytes and bone marrow in mice were observed following heat stress and/or watersoluble cigarette smoke substances. The results indicated that the high temperature (40 degrees C, 41 degrees C and 42 degrees C for 5 min, respectively) significantly induced micronuclei in human lymphocytes in vitro (P < 0.01). A significant synergistic effect of the high temperature and cigarette was found. When high temperature combining with high concentration cigarette smoke (1.0-2.0 cigarette/20 g/d, for 10 d) was used, a significant induction and interaction (P < 0.01) on micronucleus of the bone marrow were also observed. The results indicated that high temperature substanance aberrations would be enhanced when the high temperature combines with cigarette smoke.

2D CP/MAS 13C isotropic chemical shift correlation established by 1H spin diffusion

A new 2D solid-state CP/MAS 13C NMR exchange experiment for through-space isotropic chemical shift correlation is proposed and demonstrated. Through-space correlation is established via a second cross polarization from 13C to 1H and subsequent 1H spin diffusion. A third cross polarization results in the final 13C-13C isotropic chemical shift correlation. The 1H spin diffusion time is a variable parameter allowing different mean square magnetization displacements to be probed. Experimental results on mixtures of differently 13C-labeled alanine and polyethylene indicate that this site-selective 2D technique can be used to characterize domain sizes and proximities over a wide range of length scales (1-200 nm) in solids such as polymers or biological materials.

[Effects of taurine and extraction of cristata L on serum Zn, Cu and Ca in rats]

Forty rats fed with basic diets were randomly divided into 4 groups. NG group were fed with basic diets. The other three groups were fed with high fat diets. The rats in TA group and EC group were given TA 100 mg/kg or EC 100 mg/kg each day respectively in addition to high fat diet for 8 weeks. The results showed that taurine and extraction of cristata L not only increased the level of red cell SOD and the content of serum Zn (P < 0.05), but also decreased the contents of TC, MDA in the wall of artery and decreased the level of serum LDH significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). TA and EC increased significantly the content of serum Cu and decreased the ratio of serum Cu to Zn in the high fat diet rats (P < 0.01), and decreased the contents of serum Ca also. The results indicate that TA and EC may play some role in lipid metabolism and inhibit atherosclerosis by regulating the levels of Zn, Cu and Ca in rats.

[Reversal effect of Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline, on adriamycin or vincristine resistance in human cancer cells in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

Reversal effect of Ys-96, a bisbenzylisoquinoline, on the resistance of human cancer cells to adriamycin or vincristine was studied in vitro.

METHOD

In an in vitro culture system of human cancer cells MCF-7 and its adriamycin-resistant line MCF-7/Ad or KB and its vincristine-resistant line KBv200, the sensitivity(IC50) of the resistant cell lines to adriamycin or vincristine was evaluated with a MTT assay.

RESULT

IC50 value of adriamycin or vincristine in combination with Ys-96 at a concentration of 1.00 mumol/L against MCF-7/Ad or KBv200 was found to be close to that of adriamycin alone or vincristine alone against the sensitive cell line MCF-7 or KB.

CONCLUSION

The drug resistance of MCF-7/Ad or KBv200 could be essentially reversed by Ys-96 at a concentration of 1.00 mumol/L.

[Effect of somatostatin on portal and hepatic hemodynamics and portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of somatostatin on hepatic and portal hemodynamics and portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHOD

Colorful doppler ultrasonography was used to measure the diameter and maximum hemokinetic velocity of portal vein and hepatic vein before and after intravenous administration somatostatin, and thus their hemokinetic volume was calculated respectively. Among 15 surgical patients, changes of the portal venous pressure were observed via a catheter before and after the administration of somatostatin.

RESULT

One hour and 1.5 hour after the administration, the pressure of portal vein significantly decreased from 2.77 +/- 0.26 kPa to 2.42 +/- 0.27 kPa and 2.40 +/- 0.27 kPa, respectively (P < 0.01). The systolic pressure, diastolic pressure and heart rate showed no significant changes. After the administration, the sectional area of portal vein decreased by 7.28% but without significance. The maximum hemokinetic velocity of portal vein significantly decreased by 18.96% (from 19.72 +/- 7.75 cm/sec to 15.98 +/- 7.26 cm/sec, P < 0.01). The mean total hemokinetic volume increased from 1786.22 +/- 926.37 ml/min to 1836.17 +/- 844.24 ml/min, but without significance (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Continuous instillation of somatostatin via peripheral vein can decrease the portal venous pressure in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. The mechanism may be the decrease of hemokinetic volume caused by the decrease of hemokinetic velocity of the portal vein.

[Histamine-1 and -2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To study histamine-1 and histamine-2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHOD

Light autoradiography was used.

RESULT

The density of histamine-2 (H-2) receptors (cirrhotic patients/controls) in hepatocytes was 168.4 +/- 22.6/511.9 +/- 37.6 (P < 0.01), in hepatic vein 238.8 +/- 40.7/313.0 +/- 52.4 (P < 0.01), in hepatic artery 55.6 +/- 7.1/175.4 +/- 26.1 (P < 0.01), and in portal vein 52.0 +/- 5.4/166.4 +/- 17.7 (P < 0.01). The density of histamine-1 receptors in hepatocytes, hepatic vein, hepatic artery and portal vein was not statistically changed between cirrhotic patients and controls (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The density of H-2 receptors in hepatic tissues of cirrhotic patients decreased significantly.

The c-kit receptor and its possible signaling transduction pathway in mouse spermatozoa

The presence and role of the c-kit protein was investigated in the mature sperm of the mouse. The c-kit monoclonal antibody (mAb) ACK2 reacted specifically with the acrosomal region and the principal piece of fixed noncapacitated sperm but did not react with the acrosome region in acrosome-reacted sperm. ACK2 significantly inhibited the acrosome reaction; this inhibition was relieved by the calcium ionophore A23187. The kit ligand stem cell factor (SCF) significantly increased the percentage of sperm undergoing acrosome reaction. This increase was partially inhibited by the calcium channel inhibitor (verapamil), the PI3k inhibitor (wortmannin), and the PLC inhibitor (U-73122). ACK2 predominantly recognized c-kit proteins of 33, 48, and 150 kDa by Western blotting of mouse sperm extracts. The 48- and 150-kDa protein bands were released into the media and tyrosine autophosphorylated at low basal levels during acrosome reaction. On stimulation with SCF, the level of c-kit phosphorylation increased significantly. These findings suggest that c-kit is present in mature sperm, and its binding to SCF may result in the activation of PLC gamma 1 and PI3K, leading to receptor autophosphorylation, and ultimately may play a role in capacitation and/or the acrosome reaction.

[Chemical constituents of Isodon pharicus (Prain) Murata]

Two compounds were isolated from Isodon pharicus. Their structures were elucidated as 11 beta, 13 alpha, 15 alpha-trihydroxy-entkaur-16-en-3 alpha-(beta-D-glucoside) (named isodopharicin F) and eugenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside by spectral data and chemical evidence.

Expression and function of the c-kit proto-oncogene protein in mouse sperm

The presence and role of the c-kit protein were examined in mature sperm of the mouse. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the c-kit protein were used to perform immunohistochemical staining, electron microscopy studies, and Western blot analysis. The acrosomal region of both fixed and unfixed noncapacitated sperm stained with the antibodies. No acrosomal staining was noted in acrosome-reacted (AR) sperm. Electron microscopy studies demonstrated immunogold label on the plasma membrane of the acrosome and confirmed the lack of binding following the acrosome reaction. Proteins corresponding to 33 kDa, 48 kDa, and 150 kDa were detected by the antibodies utilizing Western blot analysis. The 48-kDa and 150-kDa proteins were released into the media during sperm capacitation, and release from the acrosome was dependent upon the acrosome reaction. The mAbs significantly inhibited the acrosome reaction and increased sperm agglutination. Monoclonal antibody ACK1 significantly inhibited the motility of the sperm, whereas mAbs ACK2 and NCL-ckit did not. These results suggest that c-kit-related proteins are present in mature sperm and may play a role in capacitation and/or the acrosome reaction.

Role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group Rickettsiae

To evaluate the roles of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes in immunity to disseminated endothelial infection with Rickettsia conorii (Malish 7 strain), these T cell subsets were depleted or adoptively transferred into subsequently infected C3H/HeN mice. CD4 T lymphocyte-depleted and sham-depleted mice underwent a similar course of illness with a sublethal rickettsial dose, cleared the infection by day 10, and recovered on days 10 to 11. In contrast, mice depleted of CD8 lymphocytes or CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes died or remained persistently infected through day 15 with the ordinarily sublethal dose. Endothelium was the major site of rickettsial persistence, including sites in the vital organs, brain, and lungs of CD8 lymphocyte-depleted mice. In nondepleted animals, CD8 T lymphocytes were observed in apposition to endothelial cells on day 10 at the time of rickettsial clearance. Adoptive transfer of immune CD4 or CD8 T lymphocytes protected mice against a lethal dose of R. conorii in the disseminated endothelial target model. Nonimmune CD4 or CD8 lymphocytes and immune lymphocytes that had passed through columns that depleted both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes failed to protect mice against R. conorii. These studies represent the first analysis of the role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group rickettsiae and the first demonstration that clearance of spotted fever group rickettsiae from endothelial cells requires immune CD8 T lymphocytes.

Role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group Rickettsiae

To evaluate the roles of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes in immunity to disseminated endothelial infection with Rickettsia conorii (Malish 7 strain), these T cell subsets were depleted or adoptively transferred into subsequently infected C3H/HeN mice. CD4 T lymphocyte-depleted and sham-depleted mice underwent a similar course of illness with a sublethal rickettsial dose, cleared the infection by day 10, and recovered on days 10 to 11. In contrast, mice depleted of CD8 lymphocytes or CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes died or remained persistently infected through day 15 with the ordinarily sublethal dose. Endothelium was the major site of rickettsial persistence, including sites in the vital organs, brain, and lungs of CD8 lymphocyte-depleted mice. In nondepleted animals, CD8 T lymphocytes were observed in apposition to endothelial cells on day 10 at the time of rickettsial clearance. Adoptive transfer of immune CD4 or CD8 T lymphocytes protected mice against a lethal dose of R. conorii in the disseminated endothelial target model. Nonimmune CD4 or CD8 lymphocytes and immune lymphocytes that had passed through columns that depleted both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes failed to protect mice against R. conorii. These studies represent the first analysis of the role of T lymphocyte subsets in immunity to spotted fever group rickettsiae and the first demonstration that clearance of spotted fever group rickettsiae from endothelial cells requires immune CD8 T lymphocytes.

Absence of the microsatellite mutator phenotype in human bronchial epithelial cells transformed by alpha particles

The immortalized human bronchial epithelial cell line, BEP2D, can become malignantly transformed following its irradiation with alpha particles. Exposed cells progress through a latent period of eight to ten weeks prior to exhibiting malignant properties. The molecular basis for this delay is unclear, however it is thought to involve a manifestation of genomic instability brought on by ionizing radiation. In this study we addressed whether the microsatellite mutator phenotype which arises in cells that lack mismatch repair function could have played a role in the radiation-induced transformation of BEP2D cells. Three cell lines, including BEP2D and two transformed clonal derivatives, H2BT2L and R30T1L, were examined for the presence of the microsatellite mutator phenotype using a selectable reporter system developed in our laboratory. This reporter system is based on the ability of stably transduced cells to restore the reading frame of a hygromycin B phosphotransferase transferase gene rendered out of frame by the insertion of a (CA)(13) repeat tract immediately downstream of the ATG start codon. The parental BEP2D cell line had a relatively low hygromycin B resistant colony formation frequency of 2.36 x 10(-4). This value was similar to the frequencies of two malignantly transformed derivatives H2BT2L (0.996 x 10(-4)) and R30T1L (1.87 x 10(-4)). We therefore conclude that the H2BT2L and R30T1L cell lines are not deficient in their hMSH2, hMLH1, hPMS2 or hMSH3 mismatch repair gene functions, and that other factors orchestrated the alpha particle induced malignant transformation of H2BT2L and R30T1L cells.

Deficits in water escape performance and alterations in hippocampal cholinergic mechanisms associated with neonatal monosodium glutamate treatment in mice

Mice treated neonatally with monosodium glutamate (MSG) were found to have learning and memory deficits in performing a non-spatial water escape task. Scopolamine impaired the water-escape performance of the control mice but not that of the MSG-treated mice. It was suggested that the water-escape performance deficit in the MSG-treated mice was a result of impaired central cholinergic mechanisms. As such, scopolamine was unable to further incapacitate an already impaired cholinergic system. This is strongly supported by the decreased affinity of the sodium-dependent high-affinity choline uptake observed in the hippocampus. D-Cycloserine, a partial agonist at the glycine site of the NMDA receptor, did not affect the water-escape performance of the MSG-treated and control mice; nor did it alter the effects of scopolamine. This lack of effect of D-Cycloserine may imply that the NMDA receptors are not involved in non-spatial learning, in contrast to their reported involvement in spatial learning.

[Evaluation of reproducibilty of the hinge-axis and it's positional relation to condyles]

The aim of this paper was to study the reproducibility of the positions of hinge-axis of mandibular retruded small open-closed movements, and the positional relationship between the hinge-axis and condyles. Fourteen normal students were tested by a six degrees of freedom mandibular movement recorder MT1602 (Germany). The result showed that: the hinge-axis could not be exactly repeated and movable instantaneous centers of rotation (ICR) were recorded. These rotation centers distributed almost evenly around the condyles, the mean distance from these rotation centers to condyle centers was about 8.83 +/- 5.65 mm.

Inhibition of intermediate-term memory following passive avoidance training in neonate chicks by a presynaptic cholinergic blocker

The effects of a specific presynaptic cholinergic antagonist, toosendanin, on memory formation following a passive avoidance training experience in day-old chicks was investigated. Bilateral injection of toosendanin into the neostriatal/hyperstriatal region of the chick forebrain produced memory impairment in a dose-dependent manner. Retention deficits were apparent from 20 min following training in chicks treated with toosendanin, regardless of the injection time relative to training. Chicks that received injections of the drug at corresponding times prior to retention tests showed normal retention levels, suggesting that toosendanin has no effect on performance and memory retrieval. These results indicate an involvement of cholinergic transmission during an early stage of memory formation.

[The design of an OEM module-based hand-hold pulse oximeter]

This paper describes the software and hardware design of an OEM module-based hand-hold pulse oximeter. The instrument has the features of compact structure, reliable performance, having all the necessary functions, providing measurements on any patients and low power consumption. It is possible to make this instrument as a commercial product in shorter period.

[Adrenoceptors in the hepatic tissues in cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To study the density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on hepatic tissues of cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

METHODS

A light autoradiography of alpha 1-adrenoreceptors on hepatic tissues of Wistar rats in the process of CC1(4)-induced cirrhosis (n = 18) and hepatitis virus B-related cirrhotic patients (n = 8) were studied.

RESULTS

The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on hepatic tissues (per 10,000 microns2) in rats (normal/cirrhotic early stage/cirrhotic middle stage/cirrhotic advanced stage) was 946 +/- 100/431 +/- 54/567 +/- 92/692 +/- 55 for hepatocytes, 581 +/- 90/250 +/- 87/273 +/- 92/273 +/- 88 for intrahepatic artery walls, 470 +/- 83/260 +/- 75/258 +/- 77/253 +/- 83 for intrahepatic portal walls, 362 +/- 92/229 +/- 64/218 +/- 87/212 +/- 90 for hepatic venule walls and in patients (control human beings/cirrhotic patients) it was 1255 +/- 151/583 +/- 48 for hepatocytes, 705 +/- 189/184 +/- 47 for intrahepatic artery walls 410 +/- 89/ 154 +/- 21 for intrahepatic portal walls 339 +/- 95/... ...for hepatic venule walls.

CONCLUSION

The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors on various hepatic structures in cirrhotic rats and cirrhotic patients are significantly lower than that in normal rats and control human beings (P < 0.01).

Effect of amino acid cardioplegia on myocardial metabolism and function of ischemic canine heart

To evaluate the effect of amino acid cardioplegia on myocardial metabolism and function of ischemic canine heart, canine cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) model was established and the dog heart was subjected to a 120 min ischemic arrest. Animals were divided into 3 groups, group 1: warm blood cardioplegia induction and terminal perfusion plus 4 C ST. Thomas hospital solution (STS) during ischemia; group 2: warm blood cardioplegia enriched with amino acid (L-asparte and L-glutamate 13 mmol/L each) and STS without amino acid (A. G.) and group 3: both warm blood cardioplegic solution and STS enriched with A. G. . The result demonstrated that the cardiac function of animals in group 2 and 3 had a significantly better recovery after ischemic-re-perfusion. By the end of ischemia the content of myocardial ATP in group 3 was distinctly higher than that in group 1 (P < 0.05), with the release of cardiac enzyme being the least. Myocardial ultra-structure almost remained intact before and after ischemia. Our experiment suggests that the cardioplegia arrest with warm blood and cold crystalloid solution enriched with amino acids could diminish the ischemia-re-perfusion injuries of the heart and enhance the effect of myocardial protection.

Improvement of fatigue and acceleration of recovery from stress-induced deficient sexual behavior in mice following oral administration of soft-shelled turtle powder

Effects of oral administration of cryomilled powder of the soft-shelled turtle (SST powder) on forced-exercise performance and stress-induced reduction in sexual and learning behavior were studied in mice. In the fatigue-preventive experiment, the SSt powder was administered orally to mice which were forced to climb a descending rope for 60 min a day. The treatment significantly improved the daily performance of the mice. In the stress recovery experiment, male mice were hanged from the tail and forced to swim using their fore paws for 30 to 60 min everyday. Stress significantly reduced sexual behavior and memory retrieval (step down test). Daily oral administration of the SST powder significantly attenuated this decline in sexual behavior. However, the effects on memory retrieval were not statistically significant. These results suggest that administration of SST powder attenuates fatigue and accelerates recovery from stress in mice.

[Report of clinical use of fixed-removable prosthesis]

Thirty-two patients provided with the fixed-removable prosthes is were followed up 3 month to 2.5 years. A total of 52 abutments were included, 17 of which were telescopic retainer, 14 were bar attachment retainer, 4 were rod attachment, 12 were stud attachment and 5 were slide attachment. Few technical failures were recorded. All found the prosthesis satisfactory and well functioning.

Anti-tumor effects of orally administered soft-shelled turtle powder in mice

The effects of oral administration of cryomilled powder of the soft-shelled turtle (SST powder) on solid and ascites tumor-bearing C3H/He mice were studied. The SST powder was administered orally at a dose of 100 or 500 mg/kg/d for two or four weeks, and then MH134 hepatoma cells were inoculated; oral administration was continued after inoculation. Treatment with the SST powder attenuated the increase in diameter and weight of the tumor and prolonged the survival of mice with solid tumors. However, the same treatment did not show any significant effect in mice with ascites tumor, indicating that the SST powder has no direct killing action on tumor cells. These results suggest that oral administration of the SST powder decreases the growth of solid tumors possibly by activating the host immune system.

[An autoradiographic study of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in hepatic tissues in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension]

We studied hepatic alpha 1-adrenoceptors of 8 hepatitis virus B-related cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension and 8 control surgical patients without liver disease by light radioautography. The density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in various hepatic structures ("healthy" control vs. patients, per 10,000 microns 2) was as follows: on hypatocytes 1255.07 +/- 151.44/583.37 +/- 47.64 (P < 0.01); on intrahepatic artery walls 705.06 +/- 188.68/183.54 +/- 46.77 (P < 0.01); on intrahepatic portal walls 409.98 +/- 88.73/154.02 +/- 20.65 (P < 0.01); on hepatic venule walls 339.29 +/- 94.85/.... The decrease of density of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in cirrhotic liver tissues may be a result of the destruction of nomal hepatic structure by hepatitis virus B and the down-regulation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors.

[Clinical analysis of 62 pregnant women complicated with organic heart diseases]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the factors which effect maternal-fetal outcomes in pregnant women complicated with organic heart disease.

METHOD

Clinical data of 62 pregnant cases with either rheumatic or congenital heart diseases, collected from Beijing Anzhen Hospital during 1985-1994, were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The prevalence of organic heart diseases in total pregnant women during the same period was 0.97%. No significant difference was found in maternal-fetal complications between the two types of heart diseases. However, the incidences of maternal heart failure, premature birth, intrauterine growth retardation were significantly higher in patients without previous surgical treatment as compared with those with previous surgical therapy, and were also higher in patients with heart function of grade III-IV in comparison with those with grade I-II.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with organic heart diseases should be treated and operated on in order to achieve grade I-II heart function before pregnancy. Cesarean section is the better choice of delivery.

High resolution 1H spectra of powdered solids observed by Hahn echo pulse sequence with magic-angle spinning

The 1H magic-angle spinning (MAS) spectrum for a typical powdered solid is composed of a high resolution component and a broadline component. The high resolution component can be well isolated from the broadline component by the Hahn echo sequence with a long echo time. Compared with CRAMPS experiment, which measures the proton system as a whole, the high resolution echo-MAS method measures only a fraction of the solid, which is usually small at room temperature and quite different from the majority of the solid in both molecular motion and chemical environment. It is shown that for a sample of fumaric acid monoethyl ester, the chemical shifts of the high resolution component are apparently distinguishable from the isotropic chemical shifts of the broadline component in the CRAMPS spectrum as the temperature approaches the melting point. In addition, for a sample of malonic acid, the echo-MAS spectrum is sensitive to moisture and temperature, while its corresponding CRAMPS spectrum is not. It is suggested that the molecules which produce the high resolution component are related to the lattice defects in a solid, including the surface disorder of the polycrystallites, while the molecules that generate the broadline component are located on the rigid lattice of the solid.