[Association between sarcopenia and abdominal aortic calcification in maintenance hemodialysis patients]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between sarcopenia and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. MHD patients who underwent regular dialysis between January 2021 and January 2022 at hemodialysis center in Jiangdu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University were enrolled. The incidence of sarcopenia in these patients was examined by measuring handgrip strength, gait speed and appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) using bioelectrical impedance analysis. AAC score was measured by a lateral lumbar spinal radiograph. The general information of the patients was collected and the blood biochemical indexes were detected. These patients were divided into non-calcification group (n=104) and calcification group (n=127) according to the score of AAC. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the related factors of AAC. Results: A total of 231 MHD patients (134 males and 97 females) were enrolled in the study, with the mean age of (57.1±11.4) years. Among 231 hemodialysis patients, the incidence of sarcopenia and AAC were 46.3% (107 cases) and 55.0% (127 cases), respectively. The age [(60.2±11.1) vs (53.4±12.2) years, P<0.001] and dialysis vintage [86 (46, 135) vs 57 (27, 109) months, P=0.005] in calcification group were longer than these in the non-calcification group. The level of 25(OH)D3 [17.7 (13.5, 24.3) vs 20.5 (15.1, 28.1) μg/L, P=0.008] and gait speed [(0.88±0.23) vs (1.01±0.20) m/s, P=0.024], handgrip strength [(17.9±9.1) vs (20.7±9.9) kg, P=0.013], ASMI [(6.65±2.24) vs (7.83±2.46) kg/m2, P<0.001] were lower. While, AAC score [12 (9, 19) vs 0 (0, 3), P<0.001] and the incidence of sarcopenia [58.3% (74/127) vs 31.7% (33/104), P<0.001] were higher in the calcification group than these in the non-calcification group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that sarcopenia (OR=1.928, 95%CI: 1.302-2.855, P=0.001), decrease of 25(OH)D3 level (OR=0.969, 95%CI: 0.940-1.000, P=0.047), age (OR=1.043, 95%CI: 1.015-1.072, P=0.002), and dialysis vintage (OR=1.009, 95%CI: 1.004-1.015, P=0.001) were related factors of AAC. Conclusions: Sarcopenia is associated with AAC in MHD patients. In clinical practice, attention should be paid to sarcopenia in MHD patients.

Evidence for spin-dependent energy transport in a superconductor

In ferromagnetic materials, spin up and down electrons can carry different heat currents. This spin-dependent energy excitation mode ('spin energy mode') occurs only when spin up and down energy distribution functions are different. In superconductors, heat is carried by quasiparticle excitations and the spin energy mode can be excited by spin-polarised current injection. In the presence of a finite Zeeman magnetic field, the spin energy mode surprisingly leads to a charge imbalance (different numbers of hole- and electron-like quasiparticles) at the superconducting gap edge. By performing spin-resolved spectroscopy of the out-of-equilibrium quasiparticle populations in a mescoscopic superconductor, we reveal that their distribution functions are non-Fermi-Dirac. In addition, our spectroscopic technique allows us to observe a charge imbalance, localised in energy to the gap edge and thus unambiguously identify the spin energy mode. Our results agree well with theory and shed light on energy transport in superconducting spintronics.

[Treatment of postprandial discomfort syndrome in the elderly: a multi-centered prospective randomized controlled clinical study]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Oryz-Aspergillus enzyme and pancreatin tablets (Combizym(®)) in the treatment of postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) in the elderly, compared with gastrointestinal motility drugs. Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial was designed and registered in the China Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR-IPR-16008185). The elderly patients with PDS were randomly divided into three groups, including Mosapride group with Mosapride citrate tablets 5 mg 3 times per day for 2 weeks; Combizym(®) group with Combizym tablets 244 mg 3 times per day for 2 weeks; combined treatment group with both drugs and same doses for 2 weeks. The modified Nepean dyspepsia index (NDSI) score, discomfort intensity score and PDS score were calculated on patients before treatment, at the end of first and second week of treatment, as well as 4 weeks after treatment finished, respectively. Adverse effects were evaluated. Results: A total of 323 patients from 16 tertiary hospitals in China were enrolled in this study. Among them, 105 patients were in Mosapride group, 109 in Combizym(®) group and 109 in combined treatment group. There were 148 males (45.8%) and 175 females (54.2%) with median age 71.4±9.0 years (60-100 years). Baseline characteristics of three groups were comparable. After treatment, the NDSI scores in three groups all decreased significantly (P<0.001), while they were similar between groups (P>0.05). The discomfort intensity score and PDS score in three groups showed a significant reduction after treatment (P<0.001), especially in the combined treatment group. Compared with Mosapride group, the scores in Combizym(®) group decreased significantly after one or two weeks [discomfort intensity score: after one week, 4.0(2.5, 8.0) vs. 6.0(3.0, 10.0); after two weeks, 3.0(0.0, 5.0) vs. 4.0(2.0, 6.0); all P<0.05. PDS score: after one week, 6.0(3.0, 9.0) vs. 7.0(3.5, 10.5); after two weeks, 3.0(0.0, 5.0) vs. 4.0(2.0, 7.0); all P<0.05]. The efficacy rate in all patients after first week of treatment was over 15.0%. The efficacy rates after two weeks were 55.2%, 68.8% and 73.4% in Mosapride group, Combizym(®) group and combined treatment group, respectively. After two week treatment, the efficacy rates in Combizym(®) group (P=0.041) and combined group (P=0.006) were higher than that of Mosapride group. The recurrence rate of Mosapride group was 9.5%, which was significantly higher than that of Combizym(®) group (1.8%, P<0.05) and combined treatment group (1.8%, P<0.05). There were no serious adverse effects in the three groups. Conclusions: The efficacy of Oryz-Aspergillus enzyme and pancreatin tablets is comparable with that of Mosapride in elderly PDS patients, with fewer adverse effects and low recurrence rate. Combination regimen indicates better efficacy than that of Oryz-Aspergillus enzyme and pancreatin tablets or Mosapride alone.

Synergistic effects of fibronectin and bone morphogenetic protein on the bioactivity of titanium metal

To improve the biological properties of bioactive titanium metal, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2(rhBMP-2) and fibronectin (Fn) were adsorbed on its surface solely or contiguously to modify the anodic oxidized titanium (AO-Ti), acid-alkali-treated titanium (AA-Ti), and polished titanium (P-Ti). It is found that the different bioactive titanium surface structures had great influence on protein adsorption. The adsorption amounts of BMP adsorbed solely and Fn/BMP adsorbed contiguously were AA-Ti > P-Ti > AO-Ti, and that for Fn adsorbed solely was AA-Ti ≈ P-Ti > AO-Ti. The conformation of proteins was changed remarkably after the adsorption. For BMP, the α-helix decreased on AA-Ti and stabilized on P-Ti and AO-Ti. For Fn, the β-sheet on PT-Ti and AA-Ti increased significantly. For Fn/BMP, the percentage of β-sheet on AA-Ti increased, and that of α-helix on all samples was stable. MSCs showed greater adhesion and spreading on Fn/BMP groups. MTT and Elisa tests showed that the synergistic effects of proteins made the cells proliferate and differentiate faster. It indicated both the surface structure and the synergistic effects of proteins could influence the biological properties of titanium metals. It provides research foundation for improving the biological properties of bioactive titanium metals by simultaneous application of several proteins. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2485-2498, 2017.

[Significance of the combined detection of routine blood test, serum iron and hemoglobin electrophoresis in screening thalassemia in non- high incidence area]

目的

通过分析血常规、血清铁含量及血红蛋白电泳对地中海贫血(地贫)检出率的影响，寻找在地贫非高发区高效的联合检测方法。

方法

抽取上海交通大学医学院附属瑞金医院门诊血液科及妇产科1 000例疑诊地贫患者外周血，EDTA抗凝管及血清管。抽提全血DNA，以跨越裂口PCR(GAP-PCR)及反向斑点杂交法进行地贫常见突变基因检测；进行血常规及血红蛋白电泳检测；GAPPCR及Sanger法测序进行稀有α及β地贫基因检测；作血清铁含量测定。

结果

1 000份标本经常规基因检测，诊断α地贫225例(22.5%)，其中静止型28例，标准型138例及HbH病59例；β地贫403例(40.3%)，其中β地贫携带者390例，β双重杂合子7例以及β纯合子6例；αβ复合地贫15例(1.5%)；未检出常见突变的有357例。1 000例患者中红细胞平均体积(MCV)或红细胞平均血红蛋白含量(MCH)增高的有38例，无一例检出地贫基因；血清铁含量增高且MCV不增高的48例患者，42例(87.5%)检出地贫基因；血红蛋白电泳异常的38例患者中35例为HbH病，另3例为HbF含量高的其他类型地贫患者，符合率为100%。1 000例患者中，有5例患者血红蛋白电泳异常并伴有MCV及MCH降低、血清铁不低，虽常规基因检测未发现突变，经进一步测序分析，均发现稀有突变。

结论

MCV及MCH不低于正常参考范围可基本排除地贫，血清铁含量高为地贫提示及分类指标，血红蛋白电泳异常提示地贫可能。此三者联合检查结果均异常而基因检测未显示异常的，建议进一步进行稀有分型的测序分析。三者联合检测可提高非地贫患者的排除率及地贫患者的检出率。

Long-term outcome of HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation without in vitro T-cell depletion based on an FBCA conditioning regimen for hematologic malignancies

Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) is an alternative for patients who need a transplant without having conventional donors. One hundred and five consecutive patients with hematologic malignancies who underwent G-CSF-primed peripheral blood haplo-HSCT without in vitro T-cell depletion in our single center were reported in this study. Patients were categorized into the intermediate-risk group (n=28) or high-risk group (n=77) according to the risk stratification. The conditioning regimen included fludarabine, busulfan, cyclophosphamide and anti-lymphocyte globulin. The cumulative incidence of grades II-IV acute GvHD (aGvHD) on day +100 was 21.9%, and that of grades III-IV aGvHD was 14.3%. The 2-year cumulative incidence of total chronic GvHD (cGvHD) was 24.1%, and that of extensive cGvHD was 5.6% in 83 eligible patients. The 3-year cumulative incidence rates of relapse and no relapse mortality were 21.9% and 30.5%, respectively. After a median follow-up of 35 months, the 3-year probabilities of overall and disease-free survival for the intermediate-risk and high-risk groups were 63.2% and 39.8% and 61.2% and 32.2%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the outcome of survival (overall survival and disease-free survival) was associated with the risk stratification, disease status at transplant and dose of infused mononuclear cells. Our results suggest that unmanipulated peripheral blood stem cell allograft performed with fludarabine, busulfan, cyclophosphamide and anti-lymphocyte globulin conditioning regimen is feasible.

Effects of simulated weightlessness on cellular morphology and biological characteristics of cell lines SGC-7901 and HFE-145

We investigated the effects of simulated weightlessness on cellular morphology, proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis of the human gastric carcinoma cell line SGC-7901 and the human gastric normal cell line HFE-145. A rotating clinostat was used to simulate weightlessness. The Image-Pro4.5 image analysis system was used for morphometric analysis. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Changes in the cell cycle were examined using a cytometer. Apoptosis was measured using the terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) method. When subjected to simulated weightlessness, the cellular morphology of SGC-7901 cells was changed at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h, cell conversion from the G1 to S phase was blocked, proliferation was inhibited at 48 and 72 h, and the apoptosis index was increased at 72 h. The same changes were observed for HFE-145 cells at 12 h when subjected to simulated weightlessness, but no significant changes were found afterward compared with controls. SGC-7901 cells change their cellular morphology and biological characteristics during clinostat-simulated weightlessness at 72 h, but HFE-145 cells only change at 12 h and adapt to simulated weightlessness after that point.

Exome sequencing identifies MVK mutations in disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) is an autosomal dominantly inherited epidermal keratinization disorder whose etiology remains unclear. We performed exome sequencing in one unaffected and two affected individuals from a DSAP family. The mevalonate kinase gene (MVK) emerged as the only candidate gene located in previously defined linkage regions after filtering against existing SNP databases, eight HapMap exomes and 1000 Genomes Project data and taking into consideration the functional implications of the mutations. Sanger sequencing in 57 individuals with familial DSAP and 25 individuals with sporadic DSAP identified MVK mutations in 33% and 16% of these individuals (cases), respectively. All 14 MVK mutations identified in our study were absent in 676 individuals without DSAP. Our functional studies in cultured primary keratinocytes suggest that MVK has a role in regulating calcium-induced keratinocyte differentiation and could protect keratinocytes from apoptosis induced by type A ultraviolet radiation. Our results should help advance the understanding of DSAP pathogenesis.

The determination of hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) in electronic and electrical components and products to comply with RoHS regulations

Toxicity of hexavalent chromium (Cr(6+)) was focused on with a publication of EU RoHS directive, a novel method to determine hexavalent chromium is developed. It is a combination of energy dispersion X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF), spot test, alkali digestion and UV-vis spectrophotometric analysis. First, by EDXRF screening, the presence or absence of element Cr was established. Spot test was followed to identify the valent state of chromium because Cr(6+) and Cr(3+) normally coexist. After alkali digestion, Cr(VI) was separated without an undersired Cr(VI)-Cr(III) interconversions. With a color reagent (DPC) to chelated with Cr(VI), the solution was finally detected by a UV-vis spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 540 nm which is the basis of analyzing Cr(VI) quantitatively. Some parameters affecting analyses were studied. It was found that when pH in the final solution was 2.0, the extraction time was 60 min, the extraction temperature was 90 degrees C, pH during the extraction process was 7.5-8.5, and a mixed buffer solution (0.5M K(2)HPO(4)/0.5M KH(2)PO(4)) was added up to 1 ml, colorimetric reagent was added to 2 ml, it is optimal for extraction. Under this condition, interferences from Fe(3+), Pb(2+), Ag(+), etc., were overcome. It was also found that the curves are rectilinear in the range of 0-500 microg l(-1), the correlation coefficient is up to 0.999924, and the recovery rates are more than 85%, the Cr(III)-DPCO complex can be kept stable for 24h with a relative humidity (RH) range of 60-90%, and a temperature range of 5-40 degrees C. So it can be concluded that the proposed method has a good sensitivity and high precision. It is a more convincing and reliable method due to its relative standard deviation (R.S.D.) <1% after six replicate determinations of Cr(VI) in an Fe-Ni alloy sample.

Assessment of toxicity potential of metallic elements in discarded electronics: a case study of mobile phones in China

The electronic waste (e-waste) is increasingly flooding Asia, especially China. E-waste could precipitate a growing volume of toxic input to the local environment if it was not handed properly. This makes the evaluation of environmental impact from electronics an essentially important task for the life cycle assessment (LCA) and the end-of-life management of electronic products. This study presented a quantitative investigation on the environmental performance of typical electronics. Two types of disposed mobile phones (MPs), as a representative of consumer electronics, were evaluated in terms of toxicity potential indicator (TPI) with an assumption of worst-case scenario. It is found that the composition and the percentages of constituents in MPs are similar. More than 20 metallic elements make up 35 wt.%-40 wt.% of the total weight, of which 12 elements are identified to be highly hazardous and 12 are less harmful. With the TPI technique, the environmental performance of Pb is attributed to be 20.8 mg(-1). The total TPIs of metallic elements in the old and new type MP is 255,403 and 127,639 units, respectively, which is equivalent to the effect of releasing 6.14 and 12.28 g Pb into the environment. The average TPI of the old and new type MP is 4.1 and 4.5 mg(-1), respectively, which suggests a similar eco-efficiency per unit mass. The new model of MP is more eco-effective than the old one, which is not due to a reduction in the type of hazardous elements, but rather due to a significant miniaturization of the package with less weight. A single MP can have a considerable toxicity to the environment as referred to Pb, which suggests a major concern for the environmental impact of the total e-waste with a huge quantity and a heavy mass in China.

Effects of simvastatin on lung injury induced by ischaemia-reperfusion of the hind limbs in rats

We investigated whether simvastatin reduces lung injury caused by ischaemia-reperfusion of the hind limbs in rats. The control group underwent dissection of bilateral femoral arteries; another group (I/R group) underwent ischaemia of bilateral hind limbs for 2 h followed by 3 h reperfusion; and two other groups were pretreated with 5 or 10 mg/kg per day simvastatin for 3 days and then underwent ischaemia-reperfusion. The control and I/R group rats received placebo (water) instead of simvastatin. The lungs of the I/R rats showed marked histopathological changes compared with the other groups. Lung tissue myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, neutrophil count and lung injury scores in both simvastatin groups were significantly lower than in the I/R group; 10 mg/kg per day simvastatin significantly reduced lung water content although 5 mg/kg per day did not. Expression of haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein in lung tissue was significantly greater in the simvastatin groups than in the I/R group. Simvastatin protects against lung injury associated with lower extremity ischaemia-reperfusion by reduction of neutrophil aggregation and oxidative damage, and upregulation of HO-1 expression in the injured lung.

Plasma glucose levels and diabetes are independent predictors for mortality and morbidity in patients with SARS

AIMS

To investigate the relationships between a known history of diabetes and ambient fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels with death and morbidity rates in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

METHODS

In this retrospective analysis, the clinical and biochemical characteristics of 135 patients who had died from SARS, 385 survivors of SARS and 19 patients with non-SARS pneumonia were compared.

RESULTS

All patients were treated according to a predefined protocol. Before steroid treatment, the mean FPG level was significantly higher in the SARS group (deceased vs. survivors vs. non-SARS pneumonia group: 9.7 +/- 5.2 vs. 6.5 +/- 3.0 vs. 5.1 +/- 1.0 mmol/l, P < 0.01). In the SARS group, the percentage of patients with a known history of diabetes was significantly higher in the deceased patients than in the survivors (21.5% vs. 3.9%, P < 0.01). Among patients with no known history of diabetes and before commencement of steroid therapy, those who had hypoxaemia (SaO(2) < 93%) had higher FPG levels than those who did not have hypoxia in both the survivor (8.7 +/- 4.9 vs. 6.3 +/- 2.1 mmol/l, P < 0.001) and deceased (9.8 +/- 4.8 vs. 7.2 +/- 1.5 mmol/l, P < 0.001) groups. A known history of diabetes [odds ratio (OR) 3.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4, 6.3; P = 0.005] and FPG > or = 7.0 mmol/l before steroid treatment (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4, 7.7, P = 0.006) were independent predictors of death. During the course of the illness, FPG levels were negatively associated with SaO(2) (beta =-0.682 +/- 0.305, P = 0.025, general estimation equation model) in SARS patients. Survival analysis showed that FPG was independently associated with an increased hazard ratio (HR) of mortality (HR = 1.1, 95% CI 1.0, 1.1, P = 0.001) and hypoxia (HR = 1.1, 95% CI 1.0, 1.1, P = 0.002) after controlling for age and gender.

CONCLUSIONS

A known history of diabetes and ambient hyperglycaemia were independent predictors for death and morbidity in SARS patients. Metabolic control may improve the prognosis of SARS patients.

[Ultrasonographic evaluation of adrenal masses]

OBJECTIVE

To identify the diagnostic value of ultrasonography on adrenal masses.

METHOD

Retrospectively analyzed the ultrasonographic features of 116 patients who suffered from adrenal masses, which were verified histologically after operation.

RESULTS

Of all patients, the correct rate of localization and determination is 94.8% and 93.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonography can be considered as an accurate means of scanning adrenal masses.

Quercetin inhibits c-fos, heat shock protein, and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression in injured astrocytes

Quercetin, a bioflavonoid, is found widely in many kinds of fruits and vegetables. It is known to engage in many bioactivities, such as interfering with of the progress of stress responses to injury. In the present study, we investigated the effects of quercetin on some injury responses in primary cultures of astrocytes. These injury responses included the elevation of c-fos protein, heat shock protein (HSP70), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). After heat shock insult, the levels of c-fos protein and HSP70 in astrocytes increased. With quercetin treatment, these proteins were significantly reduced. The inhibition of these injury responses by quercetin in astrocytes indicated a dose dependency, with the highest effect at 100 microM. We have previously established a scratch injury model in a primary culture of astrocytes. In that model, astrocytes responded to the scratch injury by an elevation in their GFAP level and formation of hypertrophic cell processes, which extend into the scratch areas. Quercetin treatment reduced the number of hypertrophic cell processes being extended into the scratch areas. With 100 microM of quercetin, there was a complete inhibition of the formation of the hypertrophic cell process. Western blot analysis for GFAP indicated that quercetin significantly reduced the induction of GFAP in the scratch model. At 100 microM, the total GFAP content in the injured cultures was reduced to a level lower than that of the control. This implied that quercetin might possess an antigliotic property.

Multi-lipofection efficiently transfected genes into astrocytes in primary culture

This study demonstrated that liposome-mediated transfection - lipofection - is suitable for delivering genes into astrocytes. By repeatedly lipofecting the same astrocyte cultures, a process we call multi-lipofection, the transfection efficiency of the beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) gene was improved from 2.6+/-0.6 to 17. 4+/-1.1%. This is the highest efficiency ever reported in gene-transfer with Lipofectin(R) in a primary culture of mouse cerebral cortical astrocytes. Furthermore, multi-lipofection did not cause observable disturbance to astrocytes as indicated by insignificant changes in the glial fibrillary acidic protein content in the cultures. In order to demonstrate that the transfected gene achieved a physiologically relevant expression level, a plasmid containing the pEF-hsp70 protein gene was lipofected into astrocytes. This produced colonies of astrocytes showing an increased resistance to heat-induced cell death. A similar experiment was performed with the glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) gene. Control astrocytes had no detectable GDNF. In the transfected astrocytes, the GDNF protein could be identified intracellularly by immunocytochemistry. Western blot analysis revealed, as compared to astrocytes with one lipofection, a 2.9-fold increase of GDNF with four lipofections. GDNF remained detectable in astrocytes 2 weeks after four lipofections. Thus, multi-lipofection provides a mild and efficient means of delivering foreign genes into astrocytes in a primary culture, making astrocytes good candidate vehicle cells for gene/cell therapy in the CNS.

Mixed chimera converted into full donor chimera with powerful graft-versus-leukemia effects but no graft-versus-host disease after non T cell-depleted HLA-mismatched peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

Instead of donor T cell depletion, we used CTLA4 and TJU103 (a small organic compound believed to block CD4 binding to MHC II molecule of APC) to block donor T lymphocyte activation in vitro before infusion, and mycophenolate mofetil to control the activity of lymphocytes of the recipient. We successfully treated a patient with an HLA-mismatched graft without donor T cell depletion. Mixed chimerism was observed 30 days and 60 days after transplantation. STR-PCR showed that 28% and 62% of blood mononuclear cells (MNC) were donor derived at day +30 and day +60, respectively. Mixed chimerism converted into full donor chimerism, when 99.7% of the MNC in the recipient were donor derived after three courses of DLI. A powerful GVL effect related to mixed chimerism was observed. No acute GVHD occurred, only grade II chronic GVHD occurred 6 months after transplant. Based on this case, we suggest that: (1) stable mixed chimerism can be intentionally established across HLA barriers without donor T cell depletion; (2) mixed chimerism can be converted into full donor chimerism by DLI; (3) mixed chimerism induced with this approach can be associated with a very powerful GVL effect, and these may be enhanced by DLI, without severe GVHD.

[Studies of cloning and expression of rat alpha-amidase gene in Streptomyces lividans]

alpha-Amidase catalyzes the C-terminal amidation of active polypeptides in the Nerve-Endocrine system. It is important for full biological activity of the polypeptides. By using the total RNA of rat atrium as a templet, the cDNA encoding alpha-amidase was amplified by RT-PCR and sequenced. The cDNA was fused with the coding sequence of mel C1 signal peptide to produce fusion gene mel/AE for secretive expression in Streptomyces lividans. The fusion gene mel/AE was inserted into plasmid pIJ680 and the recombinant plasmid pIJ-mel/AE680 was obtained. The results of SDS-PAGE and biological activity showed that the recombinant strain S. lividans TK54[pIJ-mel/AE 680] produced secretly alpha-amidase.

Community-acquired Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia and sepsis in previously healthy infants

Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia, or sepsis, often occurs in hospitals, affecting mainly children with underlying problems. However, it can also appear in communities, and affects infants and children without underlying diseases. We report eight cases of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia, or sepsis, in previously healthy infants over a three-year period. All patients were less than twelve months old and the majority presented with sepsis, diarrhea, ecthyma gangrenosum, and neutropenia. The infection route may have been the gastrointestinal tract. Concomitant gastrointestinal infections may have played a role in pathogenesis.

Molecular lysis of synovial lining cells by in vivo herpes simplex virus-thymidine kinase gene transfer

Herpes simples virus thymidine kinase (HSV-TK) expression plasmid DNA was injected into the joint space of rabbits with antigen-induced arthritis (AIA). Purified plasmid DNA was able to mediate transfection of synovial lining cells and transient overexpression of HSV-TK in the context of active synovial inflammation. The pharmacodynamic distribution of intraarticular expression plasmid DNA was confined to the joint space. Arthritic rabbits treated with intraarticular expression plasmid DNA followed by intravenous ganciclovir (GCV, 5 mg/kg) twice daily for 3 days showed histologic evidence of synovial lining layer cytolysis when articular tissues were examined 21 days posttreatment. There was also a reduction in joint swelling in the TK-treated knees. No untoward clinical effects were observed in the rabbits and no evidence of cytolytic damage specific to the TK-GCV gene therapy was observed either in the articular cartilage or bone. The application of TK-GCV intraarticular gene therapy using purified expression plasmid DNA for the induction of synovial cytolysis may be applicable to the treatment of human inflammatory arthritis.

[Effects of glutamic acid and acetylcholine on induction of heat shock proteins 70 mRNA in PC12 cells]

The heat shock response has been found in many strains of bacteria to human beings. Besides heat stimuli, many kinds of factors could also induce the synthesis of heat shock proteins (hsp). It is still unknown whether neurotransmitter could induce the increase of hsp expression in mammalian cells. In the present study, the effects of glutamic acid and acetylcholine (ACh) on the induction of hsp70 mRNA in PC12 cells were studied by Northern blot method. The probe used is specific for inducible hsp70 mRNA. Our results showed that the glutamic acid under limited conditions (such as at 50-500 mumol/L and action time 5-30 min) could induce the expression of hsp70 mRNA, which was partly mediated by NMDA receptors. On the other hand, ACh (0.1-1,000 mumol/L) could not induce the expression of hsp 70 mRNA.

Characterization of microstructural morphology of austempered ductile iron by electron microscopy

Mechanical properties of austempered ductile iron (ADI) are mainly controlled by its unique microstructure. The objectives of this paper are to characterize the microstructural morphology and the phase distribution of ADI using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and to determine the mechanism of strengthening and toughening of ADI. The experimental results show that, in the microstructure of ADI composing of upper bainite, retained austenite, graphitic nodule, and a small amount of martensite, the upper bainite is composed of sub-units of ferrite in the shape of "wheat ears" on which the "wheat grains" grow at an angle of about 60 degrees to the long axis of the "wheat ears." The retained austenite is connected with each other in the shape of a continuous net. The wheat-ear like bainite with a homogeneous distribution in the continuous austenite net plays an important role to the strengthening and toughening of ADI. The metastable austenite appears in the shape of a large plate in which the martensite is preferentially formed. The appearance of martensite can be suppressed at the time when retained austenite remains stable, which is of benefit to the continuity and homogeneity of austenite net.

[Effect of acupoint irradiation with Q-wave millimeter microwave on peripheral white blood cells in post-operational treatment with chemotherapy in stomach and colorectal cancer patients]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the biological effect of Q-wave millimeter microwave (QWMM).

METHODS

The QWMM was used to irradiate the acupoints Xuehai (Sp10) and Geshu (B17) in treating post-operational and chemotherapy treated stomach cancer and colorectal cancer patients. The effect of irradiation on chemotherapy affected peripheral white blood cells was observed. 62 cases (stomach cancer 42, colorectal cancer 20) in total were divided into two groups: group A, 21 cases (stomach cancer 15, colorectal cancer 6) the irradiation began 10 days after operation, and on the 16th day the chemotherapy combined with irradiation started. Group B had 41 cases (stomach cancer 27, colorectal cancer 14), in which the irradiation began immediately after the occurrence of chemotherapy induced peripheral WBC reduction, which persisted for at least 12 days.

RESULTS

The effective rate for the group A and B was 85.7% (18/21) and 73.2% (30/41) respectively. The total effective rate of the two groups was 77.4% (48/62). The effective rate of group A was significantly higher than that of group B, P < 0.01.

CONCLUSION

GWMM irradiation at acupoints could promote the hematopoietic function of bone marrow, and the irradiation performed 1 week before chemotherapy yielded even better protection on bone marrow.

Distinct domains of IkappaB-alpha inhibit human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication through NF-kappaB and Rev

Among the regulators of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication is the cellular transcription factor NF-kappaB, whose activity is regulated through inhibition by IkappaB family members. We have shown previously that I kappaB-alpha inhibits HIV type 1 (HIV-1) replication, and unexpectedly, IkappaB-alpha was found both to suppress HIV-1 transcription and to inhibit Rev function. The relative contributions and specificities of these mechanisms to HIV replication were unknown. Here, we report that the region of IkappaB-alpha which blocks Rev function is separable from that required for inhibition of NF-kappaB. Molecular mutagenesis revealed that the N terminus of IkappaB-alpha is required for inhibition of Rev function, whereas mutants lacking the N terminus retained the ability to inhibit NF-kappaB function. Interestingly, the nuclear export sequence of IkappaB-alpha was not required for inhibition of Rev or NF-kappaB function in mammalian transfection assays. Conversely, the C terminus of IkappaB-alpha was not required for the inhibition of Rev, while deletion of this region resulted in a loss of NF-kappaB inhibition. Another IkappaB family member with a distinct amino-terminal sequence, IkappaB-beta, inhibited NF-kappaB but not Rev function. These studies indicate that the inhibition of Rev by IkappaB-alpha is independent of NF-kappaB. Mutants defective in inhibition of either Rev or NF-kappaB retained the ability to inhibit HIV-1 replication, suggesting that both functions may contribute to the inhibition of HIV replication by I kappaB-alpha.

[Induction of HSP70 mRNA in the brain and liver of rats after scalding]

Induction of hsp70 mRNA in rats after scalding was analysed using 32P labeled hsp70 cDNA. The results showed that the expression of hsp70 mRNA in brain and liver was induced markedly after scalding. Time course of the increase showed that induction took place within 5 min and subsided 24 h after scalding. In the liver, induction took place still earlier, i.e. within 1 min and lasted for more than 24 h. The induction of hsp70 mRNA in rats after scalding did not seem to be due to elevation of core temprature since the increase of temperature of rat brain and liver after scalding was not more than 1 degree C. Western blot anlyses further showed that the induction of hsp70 occured within 5 min and lasted for more than 3 h in the brain of rats after scalding. The above results demonstrated that the hsp expression in internal organs could be induced by local injuries and was not necessarily dependent upon the direct effect of stimuli in intact animals.

Regulation of human retroviral latency by the NF-kappa B/I kappa B family: inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus replication by I kappa B through a Rev-dependent mechanism

The cellular transcription factor NF-kappa B stimulates human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transcriptional initiation, but its role in the retroviral life cycle has not been fully defined. In this report, we show that I kappa B alpha acts as a cellular inhibitor of human retroviral replication through a discrete mechanism, independent of its effect on HIV transcription. I kappa B alpha inhibited HIV replication and gp160 expression by negatively regulating Rev function, most likely acting through a cellular factor involved in Rev transactivation. A similar effect was observed with human T leukemia virus I, in which I kappa B alpha inhibited Rex function. In contrast, no effect was observed on the replication of a DNA virus, adenovirus type 5. The NF-kappa B/I kappa B regulatory pathway therefore modulates human retroviral replication by regulating a program of cellular gene expression required for several steps in the viral life cycle, including not only viral transcription but also RNA export. This interaction between cellular and viral gene products suggests that NF-kappa B plays a broader role in the regulation of human retroviral replication, providing a previously unrecognized link between two important regulators of HIV gene expression and common NF-kappa B-dependent programs of gene expression used by human retroviruses.

Immunotherapy of malignancy by in vivo gene transfer into tumors

The immune system confers protection against a variety of pathogens and contributes to the surveillance and destruction of neoplastic cells. Several cell types participate in the recognition and lysis of tumors, and appropriate immune stimulation provides therapeutic effects in malignancy. Foreign major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins also serve as a potent stimulus to the immune system. In this report, a foreign MHC gene was introduced directly into malignant tumors in vivo in an effort to stimulate tumor rejection. In contrast to previous attempts to induce tumor immunity by cell-mediated gene transfer, the recombinant gene was introduced directly into tumors in vivo. Expression of the murine class I H-2Ks gene within the CT26 mouse colon adenocarcinoma (H-2Kd) or the MCA 106 fibrosarcoma (H-2Kb) induced a cytotoxic T-cell response to H-2Ks and, more importantly, to other antigens present on unmodified tumor cells. This immune response attenuated tumor growth and caused complete tumor regression in many cases. Direct gene transfer in vivo can therefore induce cell-mediated immunity against specific gene products, which provides an immunotherapeutic effect for malignancy, and potentially can be applied to the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases in man.

Gene transfer in vivo with DNA-liposome complexes: lack of autoimmunity and gonadal localization

Direct gene transfer into localized arterial segments can be performed in vivo by transfection with DNA-liposome complexes. This technique holds promise for the treatment of human diseases, including malignancy and cardiovascular disorders. We have previously characterized the potential toxicity of this form of treatment in mice in vivo (Stewart et al., 1992). In this report, we examined two issues relevant to long-term expression of foreign recombinant genes: (i) the potential for autoimmune damage to major organs and (ii) DNA localization in gonadal tissue. Autoimmunity and toxicity of allogeneic major histocompatibility (MHC) gene transfer was assessed in mice after induction of an immune response to a recombinant murine class I MHC gene by direct gene transfer in vivo. Histological examination of brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney, spleen, and skeletal muscle revealed no clinically significant immunopathology or organ damage. The toxicity of gene delivery by DNA liposomes was also analyzed in pigs and rabbits in vivo. No histopathology was observed following the introduction of plasmids encoding several different gene products, and analysis of serum following DNA liposome delivery revealed no abnormalities of serum biochemical parameters. The potential for transfer of recombinant DNA into testes and ovary in animals was evaluated by the polymerase chain reaction. Although evidence of recombinant plasmid was consistently observed in transfected, but not untransfected, arterial sites and occasionally in lung, kidney, spleen, and liver, no plasmid DNA was detected in testes or ovary. These studies suggest that uptake of recombinant DNA following direct gene transfer by liposomal transfection in major organs is not associated with autoimmunity, toxicity, or gonadal localization.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Isolation of a cDNA clone encoding a zinc finger protein highly expressed in T-leukemia lines

A cDNA clone encoding a novel zinc finger protein expressed in lymphoid cells has been isolated. This protein contains 5 repeats of the C2H2 motif previously described in the Drosophila gap gene, Krüppel, which is involved in embryo segmentation. Northern blot analysis showed that the messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding this protein is expressed at high levels in a variety of T-leukemia cell lines, at lower levels in some B cells, but is not observed in nonlymphoid cells. Within the T lineage, the mRNA is found at high levels in both alpha beta and gamma delta T cells. These data suggest that this cDNA, designated Hkr-T1, represents a gene that may contribute to the determination of the differentiation and the specificity within lymphoid cells.

Oscillation of the human immunodeficiency virus surface receptor is regulated by the state of viral activation in a CD4+ cell model of chronic infection

We have developed a unique physiologic model of chronic human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection, OM-10.1, clonally derived from infected HL-60 promyelocytes and harboring a single integrated provirus. Unlike other models of chronic infection, OM-10.1 cultures remain CD4+ under normal culture conditions, during which less than 10% of the cells constitutively express HIV-1 proteins. However, when treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), OM-10.1 cultures dramatically increased (greater than 35-fold) HIV-1 expression and rapidly down-modulated surface CD4, as greater than 95% of the cells became HIV-1+. The complete loss of surface CD4 following viral activation was neither associated with apparent cytopathicity nor due to a decline of available CD4 mRNA. There was, however, a temporal association between CD4 down-modulation and the accumulation of intracellular HIV-1 gp 160/120; in addition, intracellular CD4-gp 160 complexes were identifiable in OM-10.1 cell lysates at time points following TNF-alpha induction after surface CD4 was no longer detectable. Surface CD4 expression by OM-10.1 cells returned once viral activation ceased and could be repeatedly oscillated upon HIV-1 reactivation. Furthermore, inhibition of protein kinase activity following maximal TNF-alpha stimulation of OM-10.1 cells quickly returned activated HIV-1 to a state of latency, as evidenced by an accelerated return of surface CD4. These results with the new OM-10.1 cell line demonstrate that CD4 surface expression can be maintained during chronic infection and is critically dependent on the state of viral activation, that CD4-gp 160 intracellular complexing is involved in CD4 down-modulation, and that protein kinase pathways not only function in the primary induction of latent HIV-1 but also are required for maintaining the state of viral activation.

Extrachromosomal human immunodeficiency virus type-1 DNA can initiate a spreading infection of HL-60 cells

In this report, we describe a human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1)-infected promyelocytic cell line, OM, derived from HL-60 cells. Although the OM cell line was biologically cloned twice, the pattern of HIV-1 expression during culture appeared analogous to a classical acute spreading infection and was inhibited by both azidothymidine and recombinant soluble CD4 treatment. The number of OM cells actually expressing HIV-1 at the beginning of culture was 0%, reached a peak of nearly 100% at 6 weeks, and then fell to less than 10% HIV-1+ cells by 10 weeks. Clonal analysis of the surviving cells verified that stable HIV-1+ OM cells resulted from the spreading infection. Southern analysis confirmed the transmission of HIV-1 through these OM cultures and the occurrence of stable clones which resulted. The initial percentage of OM cells actually harboring the HIV-1 genome was less than 0.1%, indicating nonfaithful transmission of an unintegrated HIV-1 genome during clonal expansion. These results demonstrate that extrachromosomal HIV-1 DNA can contribute to the spread of HIV-1 infection and give rise to cells which have stably integrated HIV-1 provirus.

Partial characterization of a carotenoid droplet ATPase and its possible significance in carotenoid droplet dispersion in goldfish xanthophores

The dispersion of carotenoid droplets in permeabilized goldfish xanthophores is dependent on ATP, F-actin, and cytosol. We report here that the motor (ATPase, translocator) resides with the permeabilized cell remnants and not in the cytosol. We also report that the carotenoid droplets have an ATPase that is not conventional myosin, dynein, or an ion pump. Its activity appears to correlate with the actin content of the carotenoid droplet preparation. A carotenoid droplet protein of Mr 72,000 (p72) is shown to be labeled by irradiation with 8-azido-ATP with concomitant loss of ATPase activity of the carotenoid droplets. We propose that this protein may be the ATPase responsible for carotenoid droplet dispersion.

Protein phosphorylation and the two stages of pigment organelle dispersion in permeabilized xanthophores: organelle protein phosphorylation alone supports only the first stage

We reported previously that, in cultured goldfish xanthophores, dispersion of aggregated carotenoid droplets (CDs) requires the specific phosphorylation of the CD protein p57 by a cAMP-dependent protein kinase and the presence of cytosol. We report here that, in permeabilized cells, the addition of the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase and ATP phosphorylates p57 and converts the CDs from an immobile to a mobile state (first stage of CD dispersion). However, the CDs are restricted to the vicinity of the original site of the CD aggregate and do not actually disperse (second stage of CD dispersion) unless cytosol is also added. We propose that this process may be related to aspects of secretory processes.

Nerve growth factor induces the proto-oncogene c-jun in PC12 cells

Nerve growth factor (NGF) induces the rapid but transient expression of two transcripts with homology to the proto-oncogene c-jun (AP-1) in PC12 cells. The c-jun transcripts increase within 15 min after NGF addition, peak at 1 h, and decline to basal level by 4 h. Actinomycin D inhibits the increase, and cycloheximide prevents the decrease of c-jun mRNA. Cyclic AMP induces a similar transient rise in c-jun transcripts in PC12 cells. The human melanoma cell line A875 that also expresses the NGF receptor expresses c-jun RNA constitutively, and the level of c-jun RNA is not affected significantly by NGF. NGF does not alter the RNA level of transcription factor SP-1 in PC12 cells. The results suggest that activation of the putative transcription factor c-jun is one of the early cellular responses of PC12 cells to NGF and that c-jun mRNA expression is dependent on cellular transcription and regulated by stabilization of c-jun mRNA.

Regulation of the distribution of carotenoid droplets in goldfish xanthophores and possible implication to secretory processes

In goldfish xanthophores, the formation of pigment aggregate requires: 1) that a pigment organelle (carotenoid droplet) protein p57 be in the unphosphorylated state; 2) that self-association of pigment organelles occur in a microtubule-independent manner; and 3) that pigment organelles via p57 associate with microtubules. In the fully aggregated state, the pigment organelles are completely stationary. Pigment dispersion is initiated by activation of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase, which phosphorylates p57 and allows pigment dispersion via an active process dependent on F-actin and a cytosolic factor. This factor is not an ATPase, and its function is unknown. However, its abundance in different tissues parallels secretory activity of the tissues, suggesting a similarity between secretion and pigment dispersion in xanthophores. The identity of the motor for pigment dispersion is unclear. Experimental results show that pigment organelles isolated from cells with dispersed pigment have associated actin and ATPase activity comparable to myosin ATPase. This ATPase is probably an organelle protein of relative molecular mass approximately 72,000, and unlikely to be an ion pump. Isolated pigment organelles without associated actin have 5x lower ATPase activity. Whether this organelle ATPase is the motor for pigment dispersion is under investigation. The process of pigment aggregation is poorly understood, with conflicting results for and against the involvement of intermediate filaments.

Regulation of pigment organelle translocation. II. Participation of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase

In intact goldfish xanthophores, the phosphorylation of a pigment organelle (carotenoid droplet) protein, p57, appears to play an important role in adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)- or cAMP-induced pigment organelle dispersion while the dephosphorylation of this protein upon withdrawal of ACTH or cAMP is implicated in pigment aggregation. In this paper, we report the cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of this protein in cell-free extracts of xanthophores as determined by the incorporation of 32P from [gamma-32P]ATP. As is the case in intact cells, p57 is the predominant protein phosphorylated in the presence of cAMP. The cAMP-dependent protein kinase which phosphorylates p57 is not bound to the isolated organelles but is found in the soluble portion of the cell extracts. Hence, the phosphorylation of p57 requires the carotenoid droplets bearing the substrate, soluble extract containing the kinase, cAMP (half-maximal activation at 0.5 microM), and Mg2+ (optimal at 5 mM or higher). The presence of protein phosphatase(s) in these extracts was shown indirectly by the stimulation of phosphorylation by fluoride. The phosphorylation of p57 does not appear to require a cell-specific kinase as soluble extracts of goldfish dermal nonpigment cells also phosphorylate p57 associated with isolated carotenoid droplets. Furthermore, using a constant amount of carotenoid droplets, a linear relationship was demonstrated between the rate of p57 phosphorylation and the amount of extract present in the assays. These results suggest that p57 is phosphorylated directly by a cAMP-dependent protein kinase and that the activity of this enzyme is important in regulating the intracellular movement of the pigment organelles of the xanthophore.

Isolation and characterization of a rabbit sperm tail protein

Rabbit sperm tails were obtained by a nitrogen cavitation procedure and separated by discontinuous sucrose gradient centrifugation. Proteins were extracted from sperm tails with 3[(3-cholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propane sulfonate (CHAPS) and separative disk electrophoresis and DEAE-trisacryl column chromatography. A protein with an estimated mol wt of 20.1 +/- 1.1 kD was isolated and found to be homogeneous by SDS-PAGE and designated as rSMP-B. The isoelectric point of rSMP-B was in the range of pH 4.4-4.7. The amino acid composition was determined, and glycine was identified as the N-terminal residue. Antisera were raised against purified rSMP-B. Using a peroxidase-antiperoxidase method, the rSMP-B antigen was located on the surface of the midpiece and tail of the sperm. Testis sections showed intense staining of late spermatids located within the seminiferous tubules. Adult male rabbits were inoculated with rSMP-B protein and Freund's adjuvant. The testis and epididymis of the immunized animals showed absence of sperm. The immunolocalization findings and the immunization data suggest that rSMP-B is formed in late spermatid and that it is an essential structural component of sperm.

Why covariance analysis should replace increment analysis of variance in caries studies

Consider a caries study where experimental units are a) randomly assigned to groups, b) premeasured on DMFS, c) administered a specified treatment depending on group membership, and d) postmeasured on DMFS. Traditional analysis of these data consists of analysis of variance of the increment scores (increment ANOVA). In the place of increment ANOVA, others have suggested analysis of covariance with the postmeasure as criterion and the premeasure of covariate (ANOCOV). The present paper examines and documents the following: 1) Increment ANOVA and ANOCOV test the same null hypothesis. 2) Increment ANOVA and ANOCOV have exactly the same assumptions. 3) Increment ANOVA is usually less precise than ANOCOV. 4) The same concern for violations of assumptions must be expressed with increment ANOVA as with ANOCOV (see No. 2 above). 5) ANOCOV should replace increment ANOVA in caries studies (see points 1-4).

Kinetic studies on human cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase

The detailed pH and temperature kinetics of human term placenta cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase (EC 6.1.1.16) were studied. The ATP-PPi exchange reaction catalyzed by the cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase was highly dependent on temperature, pH, and ionic strength. The Arrhenius plot at temperatures between 5 degrees and 40 degrees was linear, giving an activation energy of 19 +/- 2.5 Kcal/mol. The pH dependence of the kinetic parameters Km and Vmax was investigated. Apparent pKa value of 6.4 was observed in the pH-dependence of Vmax/Km plot. The pH versus Vmax plot showed two apparent pKa values of about 5.8 and 7.8. Van't Hoff's enthalpies were used to differentiate the nature of the possible groups responsible for the ionization. These results are valuable for the selection of chemical modifying reagents in characterizing the amino acid residues involved in substrate (nucleotide) binding or catalysis.