Human corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor: differences in subtype expression between pregnant and nonpregnant myometria

There is increasing evidence that CRH, which is the principal neuroregulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis, is also involved in the mechanism of human labor. The human myometrium has been shown to express several high affinity CRH receptors, although the identities of the CRH receptor subtypes have yet to be identified. To investigate further the expression of the CRH receptor in human myometrium, we used RT-PCR, fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence to identify and localize the four subtypes, 1 alpha, 1 beta, 2 alpha, and the variant C, of the CRH receptor. Interestingly, the CRH receptor subtypes in myometrium exhibit differential expression patterns; in human pregnant myometrium at term all four receptor-subtypes were expressed, whereas only the 1 alpha- and 1 beta-receptor subtypes were found in the nonpregnant myometrium. This would suggest that CRH, acting via different receptor subtypes, is able to exert different actions on the myometrium in the pregnant state compared to the nonpregnant state. Furthermore, in the pregnant human uterus, CRH receptors were localized in both smooth muscle and fibroblasts. These findings suggest that CRH receptor expression plays an important modulatory role in myometrial and possibly in cervical function.

Financing changes of schistosomiasis control programmes in China 1980-1995: a case study in Songzi county

To assess the financing changes of schistosomiasis control programmes in China and estimate the impact of these changes on patients' treatment-seeking behaviour and control of schistosomiasis, a survey was conducted in five schistosomiasis-endemic areas of the lake regions, Hubei province, in 1996. This paper reports financing changes and their impact on the incidence and prevalence of schistosomiasis from one of the five areas as a case study. By examining the surveillance and financial data from 1980 to 1995, and through focus group discussions we found that the schistosomiasis control programmes in People's Republic of China have gone through dramatic financing changes from 1980 to 1995, when the transitions of China's social, economic, and political systems happened. The proportions of funding to schistosomiasis control programmes from high level governmental agencies, county budgets, and services revenue changed from 60%, 23%, and 17%, respectively, in 1980-1987 to 0.7%, 22.3%, and 72% in 1995. The percentages of expenditure of schistosomiasis control activities, salaries and bonuses, and other activities unrelated to schistosomiasis control, were 53.5%, 14.4, and 17.2% in 1980. These percentages changed to 7.7%, 33.3%, and 53.3%, respectively, in 1995. The preponderant role of the state in organizing, financing, and delivery of the services was replaced with the new system which is more influenced by the market economy. The incidence and the prevalence of schistosomiasis in the study area have increased year by year from 1980 to 1990, although there has been a tendency to decrease after 1991 but not to the low pre1980 levels. The collapse of the community-based medical system in rural areas and the dramatic financing changes of schistosomiasis control programmes have created major difficulties for schistosomiasis control in China.

[Analysis of surface markers of long-term cultured human umbilical cord blood hemopoietic cells]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the optimal time for in vitro expansion and transplantation of umbilical cord blood hemopoietic cells.

METHODS

Hemopoietic cells from human umbilical cord blood were cultured with SCF, rIL-3, rIL-6 and rIL-1 beta in a long term culture system and changes of cellular surface markers were observed.

RESULTS

CD3+ and CD20+ lymphocytes increased at the 7th day, and gradually decreased to the lowest level after the 14th day. CD34 positive cells increased after the 7th day, and reached the highest level at the 14th day, then decreased gradually but maintained at a higher level than that at the 7th day. CD33 positive cells increased at the 7th day, and reached the highest level from the 14th to the 21st day, then decreased after the 28th day. CD42b positive cells began to increase at the 21st day, reached the peak at the 28th day, and still maintained higher level at the 35th day. HLA-DR positive cells increased from the 14th to the 21st day.

CONCLUSION

The culture system containing the four growth factors is able to expand hemopoietic cells from human umbilical cord blood and keeps them intact. From the 14th to the 21st day, the number of hemopoietic cells reached the highest level, and is suitable for transplantation.

Oocyte maturation and embryonic failure

Embryonic development is readily compromised by imperfections introduced during the process of oocyte maturation. We discuss the nature and causes of these imperfections, particularly in oocytes exposed to inappropriate hormonal regimes in vivo or to culture systems designed to induce the maturation of oocytes in vitro. The acquisition of developmental competence involves the synthesis and storage of a wide range of molecules during oocyte growth followed by the reprogramming and ordered utilization of these stored products during maturation, fertilization and early embryogenesis. The regulatory signals for these molecular changes are produced by the follicle cells in response to circulating levels of gonadotrophins; we report that some ovarian stimulation protocols distort these signals thereby disrupting molecular reprogramming of the oocyte and reducing subsequent developmental competence. The aspiration of immature oocytes from antral follicles followed by their maturation in vitro is a potential alternative to hormonal stimulation of patients in IVF treatment. Although relatively successful in a variety of animals, the production of fully viable human embryos by in-vitro maturation is still unsatisfactory despite the use of a wide variety of culture protocols. Our data suggests that the key to maturation and embryo viability in vitro resides in the follicle cell compartment rather than the oocyte. Because of rapid luteinization changes, follicle cells in culture probably fail to provide the maturing oocyte with the necessary ordered set of instructive signals and nutrients needed for the acquisition of developmental competence. Although much remains to be discovered about the nature, concentration and transmission of signals, nevertheless it is already clear that different steroids, matrix metalloproteinases and growth factors are involved in conferring viability on the maturing oocyte. Major improvements in the yield of viable embryos from in-vitro matured oocytes can be anticipated from a systematic analysis of somatic signals from the pre-ovulatory follicle.

[Changes of plasma endocrine hormone in pilots under Coriolis acceleration]

Plasma endocrine hormones were studied in both 24 motion sickness (orthostatic intolerance) and healthy pilots. Coriolis acceleration of 3.75, 5.00 and 6.25 pi 2 cm/s2 were given with intervals of 3-4 min AT-II, insulin, cortisol, Aldosterone and gastrin were determined by radioimmunoassay. It was found that aldosterone, AT-II, gastrin increased with increase of coriolis acceleration in all pilots. (P < 0.05), but cortisol and insulin only increased in healthy pilots (P < 0.05). It suggests excitation of the autonomic nervous system might be insufficient in orthostatic intolerant pilots and that determination of endocrine hormones may be useful in the evaluation of autonomic nervous activities.

The human placenta and fetal membranes express the corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1alpha (CRH-1alpha) and the CRH-C variant receptor

Placentally derived CRH plays a major role in the mechanisms controlling human pregnancy and parturition. It has been suggested that there is a CRH placental clock that is active from the early stages of pregnancy and determines the length of gestation and the timing of parturition. CRH can influence human reproductive tissue function via specific CRH receptors. Two distinct CRH receptors have been cloned (R1 and R2) that share 70% homology at the amino acid level and exist as two alternatively spliced forms (alpha and beta). In this study we investigated the presence of CRH receptor subtypes in human fetal membranes derived from spontaneous rupture and placental biopsies at term. Using RT-PCR, we identified the full length of the CRH-R1alpha subtype in placental and fetal membranes. In both tissues we also identified a spliced variant of the CRH receptor (CRH-Rc). We were unable to detect any CRH-R2 messenger ribonucleic acid in any of the biopsies. Fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence in both tissues demonstrated that syncytiotrophoblast cells and amniotic epithelium are the major cell types expressing CRH-1alpha and CRH-Rc receptor messenger ribonucleic acid. Further studies are necessary to give a better insight into the role of CRH and its receptors in these tissues.

[Detecting coronary artery disease with dobutamine 99mTc-MIBI myocardial perfusion tomography]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and accuracy of dobutamine stress 99mTc-MIBI perfusion tomography (DST) for detecting coronary artery disease(CAD).

METHODS

Seventy nine patients with suspected CAD without previous myocardial infarction underwent DST. Forty eight of the 79 patients had coronary angiography and CAD was defined as greater than 50% reduction in diameter.

RESULTS

Seventeen of 20 patients with CAD demonstrated perfusion abnormalities by DST (sensitivity 85%), 20 of 24 with normal or non-significant stenosed coronary arteries had normal scan (specificity 83.3%). All 4 patients with coronary ectasia showed abnormalities by DST. Fifty seven percent of the patients experienced some discomfort, but no serious side effects occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

It shows that DST is a safe and accurate alternative to exercise stress perfusion study for detecting CAD in patients unable to perform exercise testing.

Effect of +Gz on plasma levels of calcitonin gene related peptide, endothelin and renal function in pilots

The effect of positive acceleration on plasma levels of calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP), and endothelin as well as renal function in pilots were observed in this study. 20 pilots were exposed to +2.5 Gz 10 s and +3.0 Gz 10 s with an interval of 5 min without anti-G suits. Samples of plasma and serum were taken 2Omin before and after exposure. Plasma levels of CGRP and endothelin after the exposure were significantly increased (P<0.01), but alkaline phosphatase(AKP), blood levels of beta 2-microglobulin(beta 2-MG), Ca2+ in serum showed no significant change (P>0.05) as compared with those before exposure. There was a correlation between CGRP and endothlin (r=0.772, P<0.01). It is concluded that positive acceleration(+2.5, +3.0Gz) could increase plasma levels of CGRP and endothlin but did not affect renal function.

Bile regulates the expression of major histocompatibility complex class II molecules on rat intestinal epithelium

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules are expressed on intestinal epithelial cells, and the intensity of this expression is regulated. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that bile regulates the expression of MHC class II molecules on intestinal epithelium.

METHODS

Rats were deprived of intestinal bile by external drainage for 24 or 48 hours, and their intestines were collected, sectioned, and stained with the anti-MHC class II monoclonal antibodies OX4 and OX6. For one group of rats, bile flow was deviated from its usual entry point to the ileum.

RESULTS

Compared with intact animals, MHC class II expression was observed to be diminished within 24 hours and totally absent after 48 hours of bile drainage. For the group in which bile flow was deviated to the ileum, staining was only observed in the region distal to the entry point. Analysis by bioassay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of bile showed the presence of tumor necrosis factor and interferon gamma, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that the presence of bile is required for the expression of MHC class II molecules on gut epithelium and that the cytokine components of bile may be the inducing agents.

[Purification and properties of inulinase from Kluyveromyces sp. Y-85]

The crude endocellular inulinase from Kluyveromyces sp. Y-85 was purified to two components, designated as EI and EII, using PEG6000-phosphate buffer extraction, (NH4)2SO4 fractionation, DEAE chromatography and gel filtration (Protein-PAK); The crude exocellular inulinase from this strain was purified to Eexo by means of PEG6000-phosphate buffer extraction, double DEAE-Sephace chromatography, Sephadex G-150 gel filtration. EI, EII and Eexo were demonstrated to be homogeneous by Waters 650E protein purification system. Their molecular weights are 42 kD, 65 kD and 57 kD, respectively. All the inulinases were glycoproteins containing a saccharide (from 25% to 35%) and belonged to the endo-inulinase. In addition, EI, EII, Eexo were optimally reactive at pH4.6, 4.5, 4.6 and at 52 degrees C, 52 degrees C, 55 degrees C, respectively. Ag+, Hg2+ and PCMB inhibited these enzymes' activity strongly. The products of raw inulin extracted from Helianthus tuberosus hydrolyzed by these three enzymes were fructose (86.5%) and glycose (13.5%).

Complementation of helper-dependent adenoviral vectors: size effects and titer fluctuations

The complementation of adenoviral vectors with large deletions in the viral genome was studied. The helper adenovirus used to complement these vectors contains a partial deletion of the packaging signal and the E1 region substituted by the lacZ gene. The effect of vector size on packaging efficiency was analysed in 293 cells using decreasingly shorter vectors expressing GFP from a CMV enhancer-beta-actin promoter. Vectors with longer genomes propagated more efficiently than shorter ones. Vectors containing only the packaging signal and the ITRs of Ad5, having all the viral genes replaced with unrelated sequences packaged as efficiently as vectors of the same size containing adenoviral DNA instead of exogenous DNA. The amounts of helper and vector produced in coinfected 293 cells exhibited the typical cycling fluctuation observed during serial propagation of a virus with defective interfering particles.

[Simultaneous determination of five carotenoids in tomato by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography]

A reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous determination of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, gamma-carotene, lycopene and canthaxanthin in tomato has been developed. These carotenoids were extracted with acetone and petroleum ether (1:1) directly. The extract was dried by N2 stream. The residue was dissolved in methanol and separated on a micro-Bondapak C18 (Waters) column 150 mm x 3.9 mm i.d., acetonitrile:dichloromethane:methanol (85:10:5) as mobile phase. It was then detected at 450 nm by UV/VIS spectrophotometer. The retention times of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, gamma-carotene, lycopene and canthaxanthin by simultaneous determination were 15.25, 16.12, 12.87, 10.38 and 5.37 min, respectively. Detection limits were 0.25, 0.22, 0.18, 0.14 and 0.05 mg/L. Recoveries were 92.38%, 94.33%, 92.40%, 93.21% and 96.40%, respectively. The coefficients of variation were 2.6%, 3.5%, 2.8%, 2.8% and 3.3%, respectively. The method was simple, rapid and accurate.

Studies on kochiae fructus. IV. Anti-allergic effects of 70% ethanol extract and its component, momordin Ic from dried fruits of Kochia scoparia L

The 70% ethanol extract (KS-ext) from Kochiae Fructus (dried fruits of Kochia scoparia L.) has been screened for activity in experimental models of type I-IV allergy. In type I allergic models, KS-ext at doses of 200 and 500 mg/kg, p.o. exhibited an inhibitory effect on 48-h homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in rats, which is related to IgE, and 1.5-h heterologous PCA in mice, which is related to IgG. In a type III allergic model, KS-ext showed an inhibitory effect on direct passive arthus reaction (DPAR) in rats, while it had no inhibitory effect on reversed cutaneous anaphylaxis (RCA) in a type II allergic model. Furthermore, in a type IV allergic model, KS-ext had an inhibitory effect on the effector phase in picryl chloride-induced contact dermatitis (PC-CD). Also, its anti-pruritogenic component, momordin Ic (oleanane saponin) exhibited inhibitory effects on 48-h homologous PCA and PC-CD. These results indicate that Kochiae Fructus not only inhibits humoral immunity but also influences cellular immunity, and should be recognized as a material for anti-allergic reactions. Also, the mode of its anti-pruritogenic activity may be mediated by anti-allergic action, and its active component may be partially attributed to momordin Ic.

A mutant truncated protein disulfide isomerase with no chaperone activity

A mutant human protein disulfide isomerase with the COOH-terminal 51 amino acid residues deleted (abb'a') has been expressed in Escherichia coli. Its secondary structures are very similar to those of the native bovine enzyme. The mutant enzyme shows neither peptide binding ability nor chaperone activity in assisting the refolding of denatured D-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase but keeps most of the catalytic activities for reduction of insulin and isomerization of scrambled ribonuclease. It assists the reactivation of denatured and reduced proteins containing disulfide bonds, acid phospholipase A2, and lysozyme to different levels, which are significantly lower than those by the native bovine enzyme.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry for the analysis of monosulfated oligosaccharides

Sulfated oligosaccharides are an important class of compounds in the field of glycobiology. Mass spectrometric analysis of these molecules is challenging due to their readiness to dissociate in sample preparation and their tendency to fragment during ionization. Moreover, their presence in small quantity in biological systems poses additional problems. We report the development of a mass spectrometric method based on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) in a time-lag focusing time-of-flight mass spectrometer for the analysis of monosulfated oligosaccharides. It is found that coumarin 120 is an excellent matrix for the analysis of monosulfated disaccharides, whereas the use of a mixture of coumarin 120 and 6-aza-2-thiothymine is very effective for the ionization of sulfated trisaccharides and tetrasaccharides including those containing N-acetylneuraminic acid. Molecular ions for a series of synthetic sulfo/sialo beta Gal(1-->3)GlcNAc and beta Gal(1-->4)GlcNAc structures can thus be observed with subpicomole detection sensitivity using a uniform microcrystal matrix/sample preparation procedure. It is demonstrated that, with this matrix formulation, the presence of a high amount of sodium chloride or sodium phosphate buffer, which is often the case for the HPLC fractionated samples, does not deteriorate the MALDI performance. The analysis of mixtures containing different types of oligosaccharides is also examined. It is found that different classes of oligosaccharides require different matrix preparation methods.

Studies on kochiae fructus. III. Antinociceptive and antiinflammatory effects of 70% ethanol extract and its component, momordin Ic from dried fruits of Kochia scoparia L

The 70% ethanol extract (KS-ext) from Kochiae Fructus (dried fruits of Kochia scoparia L.) was screened for its activity on nociceptive and inflammatory responses in experimental animals. Although KS-ext at an oral administration of 500 mg/kg had an antinociceptive effect on writhing responses induced by acetic acid, it was ineffective on nociceptive response in the hot plate test. Oleanolic acid oligoglycoside, momordin Ic isolated from Kochiae Fructus significantly decreased the frequency of licking behavior within a unit of time at the late phase without affecting that of the early phase in the formalin test. Also, KS-ext inhibited the rise of vascular permeability induced by acetic acid, the increase of paw edema induced by carrageenin, histamine, serotonin or bradykinin and ear swelling induced by arachidonic acid. Momordin Ic also exhibited an inhibitory effect on carrageenin-induced edema. These results indicated that Kochiae Fructus has a peripheral antinociceptive effect mediated by antiinflammatory action, and that its active component can be partially attributed to momordin Ic.

P21/waf1 protein expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Comparative study with PCNA, p53 and MDM-2 protein expression

We investigated the immunohistochemical expression of p21/waf1 protein in 59 cases of nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPC) and compared p21 expression with PCNA, p53 and mdm2 protein expression. We found p21, PCNA, p53 and mdm2 in 59/59, 59/59, 18/59 and 12/59 nasopharyngeal carcinomas, respectively. We observed a tendency to a relationship between high expression of PCNA (> 25% positivity in tumour cells) and low expression of p21 protein. Parallel p53/p21 protein expression was found in 18 cases. Twelve were also mdm2 positive. This pattern may represent NPC with wild type (wt) p53 since mdm2 and p21 proteins are inducible by wt p53 gene. In these cases p53 protein expression may be due to stabilisation to mdm2 protein. This could be important in the pathogenesis of these cases since mdm2 may deregulate the p53-dependent growth suppressive pathway. Discordant p53-/p21+ protein expression was found in 41 cases. All were also mdm2 negative. This pattern suggests immunohistochemically undetectable wt p53 gene which is able to induce p21 protein expression.

Nuclear transfer in sheep embryos: the effect of cell-cycle coordination between nucleus and cytoplasm and the use of in vitro matured oocytes

The developmental ability of nuclear transplant sheep embryos derived from in vitro matured oocytes was studied by controlling cell-cycle coordination of donor embryonic nuclei and recipient cytoplasts. Oocytes were recovered from nonatretic antral follicles of adult sheep ovaries and cocultured with follicle shells in M199-based medium supplemented with gonadotrophins in a nonstatic system. Effective activation if IVM oocytes was obtained by applying two pulses of 1.0 kv/cm 22 min apart in inositol-based electroporation medium to oocytes matured in vitro for 27 hr. Synthesis of DNA (S-phase) was assessed by BrdU incorporation and was found to initiate around 5 hpa (hours postactivation) and to persist until 18 hpa. Mitotic blastomeres were induced by treating embryos with 6.6 microM nocodazole for 14-17 hr. Three types of transfers were compared directly: "S-->S," early embryonic nuclei (mostly in S-phase) were transferred to presumptive S-phase cytoplasts; "M-->MII," nocodazole-treated embryonic nuclei (most in M-phase) were transferred to MII-phase cytoplasts; and control (S-->MII), conventional nuclear transfer of fusion and activation simultaneously. The results showed that fusion and recovery rates did not differ among the three groups. However, after 6 days of in vivo culture, the morula and blastocyst formation rate was significantly higher for the M-->MII combination than for the control (28.3% vs. 8.1%, P < 0.05), while no significant differences in developmental rate were observed between S-->S and M-->MII, and between S-->S and control, though developmental rate was also increased for S-->S compared to control (20.9% vs. 8.1%, P > 0.05). Transfer of blastocysts derived from M-->MII or S-->S nuclear cytoplasmic reconstitution to synchronized recipient ewes resulted in the birth of lambs. These data suggest that in vitro matured oocytes can support full-term development of nuclear transplant sheep embryos when the cell cycle of nucleus and cytoplasm is coordinated, and that M-->MII nuclear transfer might be an efficient and simple way to improve the developmental competence of the reconstituted embryos.

Role of secreted proteins and gonadotrophins in promoting full maturation of porcine oocytes in vitro

Experiments were designed to identify the extent to which follicle cells and hormones contribute to the developmental competence of porcine oocytes matured in vitro. Oocyte-cumulus complexes were collected from ovaries by dissection and cultured in 2 ml of TCM199-based medium in 5% CO2 in humidified air at 38.5 degrees C. This basic maturation system was supplemented, for either the first 24 hr only or for the 48-hr culture period, with 1) everted follicle shell alone, 2) gonadotrophic hormones alone, or 3) both follicle shells and hormones. The effect of these treatments was evaluated on 1) meiotic maturation rates, 2) the capacity of matured eggs to undergo activation and early cleavage, and 3) changes to the profile of proteins secreted into the culture medium. The results showed that 1) supplementation with either follicle shell or hormones alone increased the rates of meiotic maturation over the nonsupplemented control group, and 2) combined follicle shell and hormonal supplementation yielded the highest rates for maturation, activation, and cleavage but only when hormonal supplementation was removed after the first 24 hr of culture. Proteins of 30, 37, 45, and 46 kD, but of unknown function, were secreted during the first 24 hr into the culture medium in groups supplemented with follicle shells. The addition of hormones did not affect this pattern of secreted proteins. It is possible that some secreted proteins may act to facilitate full maturation of pig oocytes.

[Pharmacological study on the compatibility of cortex Cinnamomi with Halloysitum Rubrum]

The decoction of Cortex Cinnamomi (CC, 1 g/kg p.o.) and Halloysitum Rubrum (HR, 3 g/kg p.o.) or the combination of the two drugs (4 g/kg p.o., CC 1 g/kg, HR 3 g/kg) could antagonize the diarrhea caused by p.o. water ex tract of Radix et Rhizoma Rhei in mice; and inhibit the platelet aggregation induced by ADP in vitro. Meanwhile, the effect of the combination of the two drugs was not different from that of each single one. In addition, CC was able to inhibit the spontaneous movement of intestine in situ and showed an analgesic effect (hot-plate method) in mice; HR was ineffective in these aspects and did not reduce the effect of CC. CC(20 g/kg p.o., i.p. or i.v.) exhibited very strong toxicity in mice, while HR(60 g/kg p.o., i.p. or i.v.) was nontoxic. When the two drugs were used together, the toxicity was markedly reduced.

[Spectrophotometry analysis of berberine chloride in xianglian jiaowan]

After isolation of column chromatograph with organic solvent containing acid water, the content of berberine chloride in Xianglian Jiaowan (a Chinese drug) is determined by spectrophotometry. The analysis method is specific, sensitive and accurate, recovery is 99.8% and RSD is o.78%.

Mutant human protein disulfide isomerase assists protein folding in a chaperone-like fashion

Human protein disulfide isomerase with an extra 10 amino acid residues of AEITRIDPAM at the N-terminal was expressed in E. coli as a soluble protein comprising 20% of total cell proteins, and was purified to near homogeneity through one step of DEAE-Sephacel chromatography. The mutant enzyme, which had the same CD spectrum and comparable disulfide isomerase and thiol-protein oxidoreductase activities with that of the wild type human and bovine protein disulfide isomerases, also showed chaperone-like activity in stimulating the refolding of proteins containing no disulfide bond. The overall yield of the active product is about 20 mg 1-1 culture.

Differences in depression and self-esteem reported by learning disabled and behavior disordered middle school students

Although generalizations from research are helpful in guiding problem identification and interventions in a school setting, characteristics of specific groups must not be overlooked if all students are to be served effectively. Differences in the areas of self-reported self-esteem and depression are frequently pertinent to decisions and recommendations educational professionals are called on to make. The current study examined differences in the level of self-reported self-esteem and depression between learning disabled and behavior disordered middle school students. Sixty-one participants completed the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (CSEI) and the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). Similarities and differences between learning disabled and behavior disordered students were identified.

[Studies on Kochiae Fructus. I. Antipruritogenic effect of 70% ethanol extract from kochiae fructus and its active component]

The antipruritogenic effect of the 70% ethanol extract obtained from Kochiae Fructus (fruits of Kochia scoparia) and its active components were investigated on a compound 48/80-induced pruritogenic model in male ddY strain mice. The extract (200, 500 mg/kg, p.o.) inhibited the scratching behavior as a pruritogenic indicator. Oleanolic acid oligoglycoside, momordin Ic, isolated from the extract also exhibited the inhibition. These results suggest that Kochiae Fructus could be used as an antipruritogenic agent and its inhibitory effect may be partially attributed to momordin Ic.

Construction of adenovirus vectors through Cre-lox recombination

Two barriers prevent adenovirus-based vectors from having wide application. One is the difficulty of making new adenoviruses, and the second is the strong immunological reaction to viral proteins. Here we describe uses of Cre-lox recombination to overcome these problems. First, we demonstrate a simple method for constructing E1-substituted adenoviruses. Second, we demonstrate a method to construct adenovirus vectors carrying recombinant genes in place of all of the viral genes, so-called gutless adenovirus vectors. The pivotal feature in each method is the use of a negatively selected adenovirus named psi5. We engineered a cis-acting selection into psi5 by flanking its packaging site with loxP sites. When psi5 was grown in cells making a high level of Cre recombinase, the packaging site was deleted by recombination and the yield of psi5 was reduced to 5% of the wild-type level. To make a new E1-substituted virus, we used psi5 as a donor virus and recombined it with a shuttle vector via a loxP site. The resulting recombinant virus has a single loxP site next to the packaging site and therefore outgrows psi5 in the presence of Cre recombinase. To make a gutless virus, we used psi5 as a helper virus. The only viral sequences included in the gutless vector are those needed in cis for its replication and packaging. We found that a loxP site next to the packaging site of the gutless virus was necessary to neutralize homologous recombination between psi5 and the gutless viruses within their packaging domains.

Anti-allergic effect of an aqueous extract of wu-hu-tang

Wu-Hu-Tang (WHT), a Chinese formulation which consists of seven crude drugs, has been used for the treatment of asthma for hundreds of years. In this paper, an investigation on the anti-allergic activity of an aqueous extract of WHT was undertaken to find the pharmacological basis for the ethnomedical use of the formulation. WHT produced a significant inhibition on the homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in rats and the heterologous PCA in mice, decreased the degranulation of mast cells of calvarial periosteum in rats, inhibited the release of anaphylactic mediators from sensitized lung tissues of guinea pigs and the contraction of isolated guinea pigs ileum induced by histamine. These results indicated that the therapeutic activity of WHT for asthma may be related to its inhibitory effects on immediate hypersensitivity.

Characterization and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the ovine corpus luteum

The corpus luteum undergoes tremendous growth, development and regression each oestrous or menstrual cycle. These changes are reflected by equally impressive growth and regression of the luteal vasculature. We have previously shown that angiogenic factors from corpora lutea are primarily heparin binding and that one of these factors is similar to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In an effort to identify this factor, and to define its role in luteal vascular development, the cDNA for the coding region of ovine VEGF was sequenced and a sensitive RNase protection assay was developed to quantitate mRNA encoding VEGF in luteal tissues from ewes in the early (days 2-4), mid- (day 8) and late (days 14-15) stages of the oestrous cycle. In addition, an N-terminal peptide was synthesized from the translated ovine cDNA sequence for VEGF and an antiserum was raised against this peptide for use in western immunoblotting procedures. Nested reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR of RNA from ovine corpora lutea resulted in three products that correspond in size to the alternatively spliced variants of VEGF (VEGF120, VEGF164, and VEGF188) predicted from other species. The RNase protection assay revealed that the proportion of mRNA encoding VEGF was 2- to 3-fold greater on days 2-4 than on day 8 or days 14-15. Densitometric analysis of gels from the RNase protection assay showed that VEGF120 represented approximately one third of the total mRNA encoding VEGF in the corpus luteum and that this proportion did not vary with stage of the oestrous cycle. SDS-PAGE and western immunoblot analysis of a homogenate from corpora lutea showed a single 18 kDa protein. These data demonstrate that VEGF is expressed in luteal tissue throughout the ovine oestrous cycle and that expression of mRNA encoding VEGF is upregulated during the period of rapid luteal development, when luteal vascular growth is at its maximum.

Characteristic, activity and conformational studies of [A6-Ser, A11-Ser]-insulin

Met-[A6-Ser, A11-Ser]-human proinsulin (Mut-HPI) was prepared in the same way as described previously for Met-human proinsulin (Met-HPI). After trypsin and carboxypeptidase B cleavage and DEAE-Sephadex A25 separation, Met-[A6-Ser, A11-Ser]-human insulin (Mut-HI) and Met-human insulin (Met-HI) were obtained. Their amino-acid compositions are in a good agreement with those expected. Mut-HI keeps full immuno activity, but loses almost all of its receptor binding activity with Met-HI as the control. Some physico-chemical behaviors of Mut-HI have changed to a certain extent. CD studies of mutant insulin demonstrates that the conformation of Met-HI is very similar to that of HI, while that of Mut-HI has altered slightly. The most important observation is that the binding ability of Mut-HI to the receptor has decreased abruptly. These results suggest that though the intra-A chain disulfide bond is deleted, the other two inter-chain disulfide bonds are still correctly paired, and that the intra-A chain disulfide bond is essential for insulin displaying its biological activity.

Transcription of c-mos protooncogene in the pig involves both tissue-specific promoters and alternative polyadenylation sites

The function of the c-mos gene has been intensively studied, but its role in the mammal is still a subject for debate. For this reason, and because the gene is regulated posttranscriptionally, further study of the gene from other mammalian species is timely. The pig c-mos gene has been cloned, and the genomic sequence is presented here. The gene has no introns and shows close similarity to human and monkey genes, with striking sequence similarities in both the 5' and 3' flanking regions. The significance of this similarity in the context of gene regulation is discussed. c-mos expression was found to be restricted to gonadal tissues in the pig. The major start sites for transcription initiation in ovary and testis were identified by primer extension and found to be distinct, as in the mouse. Within the ovary, expression is confined to oocytes. Messenger RNA is synthesized in growing oocytes, and remains stable during oocyte maturation, but begins to be degraded in electrically stimulated eggs. Unexpectedly, RNase protection assays revealed that the 3' ends of transcripts in the pig ovary are heterogeneous, and this, together with the identification of three distinct cDNA clones, shows that multiple polyadenylation sites are used. The significance of these transcripts in terms of translational control is discussed.

[Expression of metastasis suppressor gene nm23 in human hepatocellular carcinoma]

For the purpose of investigating the relationship between the metastatic potential of the tumor as well as the expression of nm23-H1 mRNA, and for determing the location of the positive sites in the cells, tumor metastasis suppressor gene nm23-H1 in human hepatocellular carcinoma (and the nonneoplastic area surrounding the tumor) was detected by in situ hybridization using digoxiginin-labeled nm23-H1 antisense complementary RNA probe. The primary results indicated (i) positive results of in situ hybridization are presence of granules or masses in the cytoplasm; (ii) the less expression of nm23-H1 mRNA, the higher metastatic rate of the human hepatocellular carcinoma (P < 0.05); (iii) expression of nm23-H1 mRNA dose not correlate with some other factors such as tumor size and the background of other liver diseases.

Adenovirus-mediated interferon-gamma transfer inhibits growth of transplanted HTLV-1 Tax tumors in mice

Human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) causes adult T cell leukemia (ATL), and the virus-encoded trans-activator, Tax, plays an important role in T cell transformation. In the HTLV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR)-Tax transgenic mouse model, Tax expression causes fibroblastic tumors. A tumor-derived cell line (B line) obtained from an explant of a Tax-transformed tumor, was established. This line expresses high levels of many cytokines as a consequence of Tax activation. However, the tumors are not immunogenic when transplanted into syngeneic mice. Because B line cells do not express the immunogenic cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), a replication-defective adenoviral vector was used to deliver the IFN-gamma gene to tumor cells. The recombinant IFN-gamma adenovirus (IFN-gamma/Ad) can efficiently infect B line cells, resulting in high levels of IFN-gamma expression and secretion. Local secretion of IFN-gamma from B line cells caused both CD(4+)- and CD(8+)-positive T cell infiltration, and completely inhibited local tumor development in transplanted mice. Immunization with these cells significantly delayed tumor development after subsequent challenges of parental tumor cells. Expression of IFN-gamma in B cells also partially inhibited the highly expressed immune suppressive cytokine, transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1). This system provides us with a valuable tumor immune therapy model to evaluate the effects of cytokines in induction or inhibition of specific antitumor immunity.

The pulmonary deposition of two aerosol preparations of nedocromil sodium delivered by MDI assessed by single photon emission computed tomography

The pulmonary deposition and pharmacokinetics of fine and coarse radioactive aerosols of nedocromil sodium, of mass median aerodynamic diameters 16 microns and 24 microns respectively, delivered by metered dose inhaler (MDI) have been investigated. The corresponding geometric standard deviations of the particle size distributions were 5.32 and 3.93. Pulmonary deposition was assessed by both planar radionuclide scintigraphy and multi-modality three dimensional imaging using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and x-ray computed tomography (CT). The three dimensional data were analysed by transformation to a hemispherical shape based on the fractional radial distance of each point in the lung from the centre to the corresponding extrapolated point on the periphery. This enabled parameters on the variation of both concentration of deposition and total amount deposited with penetration distance to be calculated. For both planar and SPECT data the central to peripheral concentration ratio (C/P ratio) was calculated. The three dimensional C/P ratio showed a median value (3.21) which was significantly higher than for the planar imaging (2.03) (p < 0.001). The parameter used to express the variation of total amount deposited was the median dose position. This showed that for both aerosols 50% of the dose was deposited at sites with a percentage central to peripheral distance of greater than 68%. There was a trend for total percentage of the fine aerosol in the lungs to be higher than for the coarse and for its deposition to be more peripheral. In addition the mean concentrations in blood were measured to be greater for the fine aerosol. However these differences were relatively small and none were individually statistically significant. The technique of combined SPECT and CT imaging was shown to be valuable in obtaining more accurate information on pulmonary distribution of inhaled aerosol deposition. The merits, limitations and potential applications of the technique are discussed.

Accurate mass measurement of oligonucleotides using a time-lag focusing matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer

A method for accurate mass measurement of oligonucleotides up to a DNA 35-mer based on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry is described. In this method, a time-lag focusing time-of-flight mass spectrometer is used to achieve high mass resolution to resolve adduct ions that often complicate the mass analysis of oligonucleotides. Mass resolutions between 1170 and 1300 (full width at half maximum) for a 17-mer, 23-mer, and 35-mer are obtained using a 1 m linear time-of-flight instrument with a total sample loading of less than 10 pmol. The effects of sample preparation, type of calibrant and matrix used on the accuracy of mass measurement, based on external calibration, are discussed. A sample preparation protocol that forms a thin film of matrix and sample crystals on a MALDI probe is described. It is shown that mass measurement error less than 100 ppm with reproducibility better than +/-60 ppm can be obtained with either proteins or DNA fragments as external calibrants. Accurate mass measurement for a mixture of DNA fragments is also illustrated.

[Comparison between kinetics of positive inotropism of ibopamine and ouabain]

AIM

To compare the kinetics of positive inotropism between ibopamine (Ibo) and ouabain (Oua).

METHODS

The isolated right papillary muscle of cat was used to assess the positive inotropic effects by cummulative concentrations of Ibo and Oua. The maximal effects was recognized as the contraction just before the appearance of spontaneous contraction. A Hill equation was developed by using lg [E/(Emax-E)] vs lg C.

RESULTS

The S value of Ibo was smaller than that of Oua, causing C95/C5 (ratio of concentrations producing 95%/5% of Emax) of Ibo (264) elevenfold as large as Oua (22.9). Comparing with Oua, concentrations of Ibo initiating effects were lower, the slope was smaller, and higher concentrations were required for producing maximal effect. During drug concentration declining, the effect-concentration curve of Ibo showed a counter-hysteresis loop, more remarkable than Oua.

CONCLUSION

The changes in positive inotropism of Ibo against drug concentrations were less than those of Oua.

An investigation of the relationship between color choice and depression measured by the Beck Depression Inventory

The relationship between self-reported depression and color preference was investigated. It was proposed that a cognitive schema would be activated affecting negatively that part of the environment selected for cognitive preference. When requested to select a series of preferred colors, the 72 undergraduates scoring above 10 on the Beck Depression Inventory tended to choose black or brown. It is believed that internal schema represented in 3 questions may be reflected in color choice(s).

Inactivation and degradation of human cytochrome P4502E1 by CCl4 in a transfected HepG2 cell line

Treatment with CCl4 in vivo labilizes cytochrome P4502E1, inactivating the enzyme and enhancing its degradation. To investigate the mechanism of CCl4-induced degradation of human CYP2E1, a recently-established MVh2E1-9 cell line, which constitutively expresses the human CYP2E1 in HepG2 cells was used. CCl4 inhibited oxidation of p-nitrophenol in isolated microsomes from MVh2E1-9 cells suggesting that CCl4 could be metabolized in vitro by the system; however, CCl4 did not promote lipid peroxidation under these conditions. Treatment of the MVh2E1-9 cells in situ with 2 mM CCl4 for 24 hr caused a 30 to 50% loss of both enzyme activity and 2E1 protein. Treatment with cycloheximide at the same time to inhibit constitutive protein synthesis showed a more prominent loss of 2E1 activity and protein. CCl4-induced degradation of CYP2E1 could be prevented by ligands and substrates of 2E1. N-acetylcysteine, N-t-butyl-alpha-phenylnitrone or propylgallate did not significantly prevent CCl4-induced inactivation or degradation of 2E1. After treatment with 14C-labeled CCl4, there was increased radioactive adduct formation in MVh2E1-9 cells compared to control cells lacking CYP2E1. This increase was completely prevented by 4-methylpyrazole and ethanol indicating its dependence on CYP2E1. These results suggest that the human CYP2E1 expressed in the MVh2E1-9 cell line metabolizes CCl4, generating reactive species at the active site that directly inactivate the enzyme and also labilize P450 for degradation by proteases present in the HepG2 cells. Lipid peroxidation is not required for the CCl4-induced inactivation and degradation of CYP2E1 in these cells.

[The interstitial response and postoperation recurrent mechanism in liver cancer]

Immunoactive cell group markers and glycoproteins of extracellular matrix and basement membrane (fibronectin, laminin, type IV collage) in 156 human hepatocellular carcinomas and their surrounding tissues were localized with immunoperoxidase technique. T lymphocytes were the major immunoactive cells in the regions of local invasion in liver cancer. The distributing patterns of the glycoproteins were similar to the results of previous reports, mainly localized in the surrounding cancer cells, interstitium and vessel walls or sinusoids in tumor, and tumor capsule. The patients, whose hepatocarcinomas showed stronger cell immunoactivity (T and help T cells were in the majority) and higher expression of glycoproteins of extracellular matrix and basement membrane had a longer tumor-free survival (63.2 to 12.8 months) and lower recurrences (P < 0.01). Of the 156 patients 92.9%, 82.6%, 65.4%, 44.2% and 30.8% and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 postoperative tumor-free years respectively with a total currence rate of 53.2% (83 patients). In the 83 recurrences, 65 were intrahepatic subclinical, which were promptly reresected 78.3%, recurrence related factors included tumor number and size, capsule infiltration, and portal veins involvement. Being different from those with single node, capsulated hepatocellular carcinomas and multiple/daughter ones had invisible tumor cells disseminated to the remnant liver. Those without capsule infiltration had a low recurrence rate, which agrees to the hypothesis that capsules can bar the dissemination of tumor cells. Additional results show that postoperative tumor recurrence is mainly pertinent to histopathological characteristics of the primary focus. According to the phenomenon that nearly 63.1% of recurrent liver carcinomas are located at the ipsilateral segment of the primary ones, we emphasize that the occurrence and recurrence of liver carcinoma are mainly unicentral.

Evidence for thrombin-induced human platelet secretion regulated by the cytoskeleton

Human blood platelets store an abundance of growth factors, adhensive proteins, coagulation factors, platelet-specific proteins, calcium, serotonin, and adenine nucleotides in their secretory organelles. After exposure to stimuli (thrombin, collagen, ADP, etc.), the platelets undergo a rapid series of morphological change from characteristic disks to spheres with several filopodia, adhension to the inner surface of blood vessels, and aggregation among the platelets. Most of these changes are usually accompanied by secretion or release of dense bodies (release I) and alpha-granules (release II). The secreted products play essential parts in a variety of important physiological and/or pathological events, such as hematosis, thrombosis, blood coagulation, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. Little is known, however, for regulatory mechanism of platelet secretion. Platelets are a distinct kind of cells with many special organelles, but without a nucleus. It also contains a large amount of cytoskeleton. The numerous investigators have suggested that the platelet responses to stimuli are intimately linked to events involving cytoskeleton within the platelets. During platelet activation, as revealed by electron microscopy, the secretory organelles become centralized and enveloped by circular microtubules and a filamentous network. It is implied a possible relationship between cytoskeleton and platelet secretion. However, the precise role of cytoskeleton in platelet secretion remains uncertain. By using exposed GMP-140 (a platelet granule-membrane protein with MW of 140 kDa) as a specific signal of secretion, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of microtubular and microfilamental inhibitors on thrombin-induced platelet secretion.

[Effects of coconut juice on the formation of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis]

Eight-week old male quails were fed with high-fat fodder supplemented by 20 milliliters of coconut juice daily for each one for 12 weeks. Results showed coconut juice could increase their serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 46.2% and reduce their index of atherosclerosis by 41.1% and liver total cholesterol levels by 26.3% in quails, all with a P-value of less than 0.01, as compared in those with high-fat fodder only. Coconut juice could inhibit the formation of atherosclerosis in animals obviously. Coconut juice, as a kind of natural and nutritious drink with an action of keeping-fit, can play certain roles in preventing from hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis with a dose used in animal experiments.

Cytotoxicity of acetaminophen in human cytochrome P4502E1-transfected HepG2 cells

Acetaminophen (APAP) when administered in excess can cause severe hepatic necrosis in vivo. To study the mechanism of APAP toxicity and the role of cytochrome P450, a previously established human hepatoma HepG2 subline, MVh2E1-9, that constitutively expresses human CYP2E1 was used as a model. At high concentrations (above 5 mM) and when intracellular reduced glutathione (GSH) was depleted, APAP caused severe cytotoxicity in MVh2E1-9, but not in MV-5 cells which lack CYP2E1. The APAP cytotoxicity was dependent on the concentration of APAP and time of exposure, and could be blocked by 4-methylpyrazole, ethanol, diallyl sulfide, N-acetylcysteine and N-t-butyl-alpha-phenylnitrone, but not by propylgallate, an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation. Significantly more 14C-labeled APAP protein adduct was detected in MVh2E1-9 cells than MV-5 cells, especially after depletion of GSH. The formation of the APAP adducts could be inhibited by the same agents which prevent APAP cytotoxicity. At a lower concentration (1-2 mM), APAP inhibited proliferation in both MVh2E1-9 and the control MV-5 cells to similar extents. This antiproliferative action of APAP did not require depletion of GSH as did the cytotoxic action of APAP. These data suggest that APAP has a dual toxic effect on MVh2E1-9 cells: a P450-independent antiproliferative effect and the CYP2E1-dependent cytotoxic effect. These results demonstrate the ability of human CYP2E1 to activate APAP to reactive metabolites which form covalent protein adducts and cause toxicity to a hepatoma cell line.

Oncogene-linked in situ immunotherapy of pre-B lymphoma arising in E mu/ret transgenic mice

We attempted to induce anti-tumour immunity for rejecting pre-B lymphoma derived from E mu/ret transgenic mice (TGM). We established pre-B-lymphoma cell lines of C57BL/6 x Balb/c background (H-2b/d) into which H-2k alloantigen and C3H background were introduced (retL1-6 and retL6-6), and we inoculated BCF1 mice with these immunising tumour cells. After these tumours were rejected by alloantigen (H-2k/C3H background)-specific effector cells, the mice were challenged with the pre-B-lymphoma cell line derived from the original E mu/ret TGM (ret0-2). All non-immunised control mice died within 80 days, whereas half the immunised mice survived for over 300 days. The immunity was also effective against primary pre-B-lymphoma cells from E mu/ret TGM and the ret-driven melanoma cell line (MEL-ret), but not against the pre-B-lymphoma cell line from E mu/myc TGM. This immunity was at least in part mediated by cell-mediated cytotoxicity that was specific to the ret oncogene product or ret-regulated antigen. Next we immunised E mu/ret TGM by inoculating them with retL6-6 cells once every 2 weeks beginning at the age of 1 month. Interestingly, this immunisation enabled the TGM to survive longer than the non-immunised control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, 2 of 11 transgenic mice receiving such immunisation were free from both macroscopic and microscopic tumours at the time when all of the 12 non-immunised control TGM had died from their tumour. This provides a new model for oncogene-linked immunotherapy research.

[Correlated multiple parameters in pleural effusion with pathology of pleurae for differential diagnosis of tuberculous and carcinomatous pleuritis]

The level of ADA, LZM, leukocyte count, lymphocyte in tuberculous effusion is higher than that of carcinomatous effusion (P < 0.05). All results showed that the change of multiple parameters is related to the pathological manifestation of pleurae. The false positive or negative result was influenced by pathological appearance and bloody character of pleural effusion. Using the ADA, LZM cut off value at 35U and 30mg, respectively, and pleural/serum ADA ratio > 1.4, LZM > 1.1, a sensitivity and specificity of 100 percent were achieved.