Two Isoforms of the RNA Binding Protein, Coding Region Determinant-binding Protein (CRD-BP/IGF2BP1), Are Expressed in Breast Epithelium and Support Clonogenic Growth of Breast Tumor Cells

CRD-BP/IGF2BP1 has been characterized as an "oncofetal" RNA binding protein typically highly expressed in embryonic tissues, suppressed in normal adult tissues, but induced in many tumor types. In this study, we show that adult breast tissues express ubiquitous but low levels of CRD-BP protein and mRNA. Although CRD-BP mRNA expression is induced in breast tumor cells, levels remain ∼1000-fold lower than in embryonic tissues. Despite low expression levels, CRD-BP is required for clonogenic growth of breast cancer cells. We reveal that because the most common protein isoform in normal adult breast and breast tumors has an N-terminal deletion (lacking two RNA recognition motif (RRM) domains) and is therefore missing antibody epitopes, CRD-BP expression has been under-reported by previous studies. We show that a CRD-BP mutant mouse strain retains expression of the shorter transcript (ΔN-CRD-BP), which originates in intron 2, suggesting that the impact of complete ablation of this gene in mice is not yet known. Either the full-length CRD-BP or the N-terminally truncated version can rescue the clonogenicity of CRD-BP knockdown breast cancer cells, suggesting that clonogenic function is served by either CRD-BP isoform. In summary, although CRD-BP expression levels are low in breast cancer cells, this protein is necessary for clonogenic activity.

Syndecan-1 is required to maintain intradermal fat and prevent cold stress

Homeostatic temperature regulation is fundamental to mammalian physiology and is controlled by acute and chronic responses of local, endocrine and nervous regulators. Here, we report that loss of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan, syndecan-1, causes a profoundly depleted intradermal fat layer, which provides crucial thermogenic insulation for mammals. Mice without syndecan-1 enter torpor upon fasting and show multiple indicators of cold stress, including activation of the stress checkpoint p38α in brown adipose tissue, liver and lung. The metabolic phenotype in mutant mice, including reduced liver glycogen, is rescued by housing at thermoneutrality, suggesting that reduced insulation in cool temperatures underlies the observed phenotypes. We find that syndecan-1, which functions as a facultative lipoprotein uptake receptor, is required for adipocyte differentiation in vitro. Intradermal fat shows highly dynamic differentiation, continuously expanding and involuting in response to hair cycle and ambient temperature. This physiology probably confers a unique role for Sdc1 in this adipocyte sub-type. The PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone rescues Sdc1−/− intradermal adipose tissue, placing PPARγ downstream of Sdc1 in triggering adipocyte differentiation. Our study indicates that disruption of intradermal adipose tissue development results in cold stress and complex metabolic pathology.

All mammals strive to maintain a fixed body temperature, and do so using a remarkable array of different strategies, which vary depending upon the degree of cold challenge. Physiologists many decades ago observed that a fat layer right underneath the epidermis (and above the dermal muscle layer) thickens in response to colder ambient temperatures. This “intradermal fat” provided insulation within days of climate changes. We have found that syndecan-1, which functions as a facultative lipoprotein uptake receptor, is required for intradermal fat expansion in response to cold exposure. This is a highly specific phenotype not shared by other adipocytes. When intradermal fat is absent, mice do not adapt normally to cold stress, and show altered systemic physiologies, including increased brown adipose tissue thermogenesis and hyper-activation of a stress checkpoint (p38α), designed to protect the body against mutagenic and oxidative stressors. The phenotypes associated with loss of Sdc1 function are reversed when mice are housed in warm temperatures, where defense of body temperature is not required. This study is the first to show that intradermal fat can be genetically regulated, with systemic effects on physiology.

The Wnt receptor, Lrp5, is expressed by mouse mammary stem cells and is required to maintain the basal lineage

BACKGROUND

Ectopic Wnt signaling induces increased stem/progenitor cell activity in the mouse mammary gland, followed by tumor development. The Wnt signaling receptors, Lrp5/6, are uniquely required for canonical Wnt activity. Previous data has shown that the absence of Lrp5 confers resistance to Wnt1-induced tumor development.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Here, we show that all basal mammary cells express Lrp5, and co-express Lrp6 in a similar fashion. Though Wnt dependent transcription of key target genes is relatively unchanged in mammary epithelial cell cultures, the absence of Lrp5 specifically depletes adult regenerative stem cell activity (to less than 1%). Stem cell activity can be enriched by >200 fold (over 80% of activity), based on high Lrp5 expression alone. Though Lrp5 null glands have apparent normal function, the basal lineage is relatively reduced (from 42% basal/total epithelial cells to 22%) and Lrp5-/- mammary epithelial cells show enhanced expression of senescence-associated markers in vitro, as measured by expression of p16(Ink4a) and TA-p63.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first single biomarker that has been demonstrated to be functionally involved in stem cell maintenance. Together, these results demonstrate that Wnt signaling through Lrp5 is an important component of normal mammary stem cell function.

Wnt1 expression induces short-range and long-range cell recruitments that modify mammary tumor development and are not induced by a cell-autonomous beta-catenin effector

Xenograft model studies have shown that tumor-associated, or genetically modified, activated stromal cells can promote tumor cell growth. Here, we examined mammary tumors arising in response to two different transgene-mediated Wnt signaling effectors: Wnt1 (a ligand with cell-nonautonomous effects) and DeltaNbeta-catenin (a constitutively active form of the intracellular effector). Although the route of tumor development has been shown to be similar for these two models, histologic analysis shows that Wnt1-induced tumors are associated with tracts of activated stroma, whereas most DeltaNbeta-catenin-induced tumors are solid adenocarcinomas. Furthermore, quantification of the "reactive stroma index" indicates that abundant activated stroma correlates with accelerated tumor progression. Wnt1-expressing mammary epithelial cells induce Wnt-specific target gene expression in local stromal cells (Wnt1-induced secreted protein 1/CCN4) but also induce long-range effects. Thus, mice with rapid tumor progression have 2-fold more circulating endothelial progenitor cells in peripheral blood than control or DeltaNbeta-catenin transgenic mice. Using tagged bone marrow (BM) transplants, we show that BM-derived cells are massively recruited to infiltrate the stroma of Wnt1-induced tumors where they differentiate into multiple cell types. Thus, localized ectopic expression of the proto-oncogene Wnt1 in mammary glands induces systemic responses, and we propose that this response modifies the tumorigenic outcome.

Prognostic value of the serum free light chain ratio in newly diagnosed myeloma: proposed incorporation into the international staging system

To determine if the serum free light chain (FLC) ratio has prognostic value in patients with symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM), baseline serum samples from a well-characterized cohort of 790 newly diagnosed MM patients were tested with the FLC assay. FLC ratio was calculated as kappa/lambda (reference range 0.26-1.65). On the basis of the distribution of values, a cutpoint kappa/lambda FLC ratio of <0.03 or >32 was chosen for further analysis. Overall survival was significantly inferior in patients with an abnormal FLC ratio of <0.03 or >32 (n=479) compared with those with an FLC ratio between 0.03 and 32 (n=311), with median survival of 30 versus 39 months, respectively. We incorporated abnormal FLC ratio with the International Staging System (ISS) risk factors (that is, albumin <3.5 g/dl and serum beta(2)-microglobulin >or=3.5 g/l), to create a risk stratification model with improved prognostic capabilities. Patients with 0, 1, 2 or 3 adverse risk factors had significantly different overall survival, with median survival times of 51, 39, 30 and 22 months, respectively (P<0.001). These findings suggest that the serum FLC ratio at initial diagnosis is an important predictor of prognosis in myeloma, and can be incorporated into the ISS for improved risk stratification.

Are α9α10 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors a Pain Target for α-Conotoxins?

The synthetic alpha-conotoxin Vc1.1 is a small disulfide bonded peptide currently in development as a treatment for neuropathic pain. Unlike Vc1.1, the native post-translationally modified peptide vc1a does not act as an analgesic in vivo in rat models of neuropathic pain. It has recently been proposed that the primary target of Vc1.1 is the alpha9alpha10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). We show that Vc1.1 and its post-translationally modified analogs vc1a, [P6O]Vc1.1, and [E14gamma]Vc1.1 are equally potent at inhibiting ACh-evoked currents mediated by alpha9alpha10 nAChRs. This suggests that alpha9alpha10 nAChRs are unlikely to be the molecular mechanism or therapeutic target of Vc1.1 for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Limited Genetic Diversity in North American Isolates of Phytophthora erythroseptica Pathogenic to Potato Based on RAPD Analysis

Pink rot of potato (Solanum tuberosum), caused by Phytophthora erythroseptica, is found wherever potatoes are grown, and in the last decade, it has reemerged as an economically important disease in Canada and the United States. A selection of isolates of P. erythroseptica from major potato-growing regions in North America, namely Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, Canada, and Maine and Idaho, U.S.A., was assessed for genetic diversity with randomly chosen decanucleotide primers which were used to amplify regions of DNA to reveal polymorphisms among templates (random amplified polymorphic DNA [RAPD]). The isolates varied in their geographic origin as well as in their sensitivity to mefenoxam, as determined by an in vitro assay. In three separate RAPD screens (I, II, and III) with 23 isolates of P. erythroseptica chosen from a larger collection, 1,410, 369, and 316 robust, scorable bands were amplified, respectively. However, among the bands amplified in screens I, II, and III, only 3, 1, and 3 bands, respectively, were polymorphic. When three primers yielding polymorphisms were used to screen 106 isolates from Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, or a representative collection of 32 isolates from Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Maine, and Idaho, no major variation was discovered. RAPD markers were not correlated with geographic origin or mefenoxam sensitivity of the isolates. From an evolutionary standpoint, the absence of genetic diversity among the isolates of P. erythroseptica we examined may be attributable to the relatively recent introduction of a small founding population of the pathogen in North America.

Mucosal co-administration of cholera toxin and influenza virus hemagglutinin-DNA in ponies generates a local IgA response

We have previously demonstrated that equine influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) DNA vaccination protects ponies from challenge infection, and induces protective IgGa and IgGb responses. However, this approach does not induce a nasal IgA response. The objective of this study was to examine the value of cholera toxin (CT) administration as an adjuvant for intranasal HA DNA vaccination, and to measure protection 3 months after DNA vaccination. After an immunogenic dose of CT was determined, ponies were immunized on two occasions by intranasal administration of HA DNA and cholera toxin, or HA DNA alone. Ponies in both groups received two additional HA DNA particle mediated vaccinations at skin and mucosal sites. Antibody responses, and protection from challenge infection 3 months after the last vaccination were studied and compared to an influenza virus naive control group. Ponies in both vaccination groups produced virus-specific IgG antibodies in serum following vaccination and showed clinical protection from challenge infection 3 months after the last vaccination. Co-administration of CT plus HA DNA vaccination induced a nasal IgA response. In addition, analysis of antibody titers in nasal secretions indicated local production of nasal IgGb, which was amplified by CT administration.

Antifungal alkyl amino alcohols from the tropical marine sponge Haliclona n. sp

Three new amino alcohols presumably deriving from L-alanine were isolated from the tropical marine sponge Haliclona n. sp. and characterized by 2D NMR, while a fourth amino alcohol was characterized as an acetamide derivative. Relative stereochemistry was deduced from the NMR characteristics of oxazolidinone derivatives and absolute stereochemistry secured by preparation and analysis of an MPA ester. The amino alcohol fraction from Haliclona n. sp. acts as an antifungal agent and inhibits the development of larvae of the ascidian Herdmania curvata.

Voluntary running improves glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in female spontaneously hypertensive rats

We evaluated the effects of voluntary exercise training on glucose metabolism and measures of insulin sensitivity in female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Age-matched Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) were used as normotensive controls. Exercising SHR were housed in running wheels for 8 weeks (SHRx8) or 16 weeks (SHRx16). At 22 weeks of age, we measured systolic blood pressure, performed oral glucose tolerance tests, and determined hexokinase activity and glucose transporter (GLUT) 4 content in skeletal muscle to assess intracellular glucose metabolism. Blood pressure was lower in WKY (139+/-12 mm Hg) than untrained SHR (216+/-13 mm Hg). Exercise training caused a reduction in blood pressure (-18 mm Hg) for SHRx8. After a brief (5-h) fast, serum glucose was lower in SHR that exercised compared with sedentary SHR, whereas insulin concentrations were identical between all SHR and WKY. Corresponding free fatty acids (FFA) were twofold higher in SHR than in WKY. In response to glucose, SHR demonstrated higher glucose and FFA responses, with exercise decreasing the glucose values in a dose-dependent manner. Although the insulin response was comparable in all groups, the glucose-to-insulin ratio was higher in SHR, indicating a relative insulin resistance for both glucose disposal and suppression of free fatty acids. Hexokinase activity and GLUT4 content were elevated 1.4- and 2.8-fold, respectively, in plantaris muscle of SHRx16, suggesting an improvement in the capacity for glucose transport and phosphorylation with exercise. These results provide evidence that voluntary running in female SHR lowers blood pressure and selectively increases glucose uptake and insulin action, but not suppression of FFA.

Library of FT-Raman spectra of pigments, minerals, pigment media and varnishes, and supplement to existing library of Raman spectra of pigments with visible excitation

Sixty pigments, minerals and media have been analysed by Fourier-transform Raman (FT-Raman) microscopy in order to assemble a database of reference FT-Raman spectra for scientists working at the Arts-Science interface. An earlier library of Raman spectra compiled using visible excitation has been extended by the addition of 22 further reference spectra obtained with 780.0, 647.1, 632.8 and/or 514.5 nm excitation. The relative merits of 1064 nm and visible excitation are discussed.

Raman spectroscopy as a means for the identification of plattnerite (PbO2), of lead pigments and of their degradation products

The Raman spectra of plattnerite [lead(IV) oxide, PbO2] and of the lead pigments red lead (Pb3O4), lead monoxide [PbO, litharge (tetragonal) and massicot (orthorhombic)], lead white [basic lead carbonate, 2PbCO3.Pb(OH)2] and of their laser-induced degradation products were recorded using a range of different excitation lines, spectrometer systems and experimental conditions. The degradation of PbO2 is more extensive along the pathway PbO2-->Pb3O4-->PbO (litharge)-->PbO (massicot) the shorter the wavelength of the excitation line and the higher its power. The Raman spectrum of PbO2, which is black and of the rutile structure, is particularly difficult to obtain but three bands, at 653, 515 and 424 cm-1, were identified as arising from the b2g, a1g and e(g) modes respectively, by analogy with the corresponding modes of isostructural SnO2 (776, 634 and 475 cm-1). A further oxide was identified, PbO1.55, the Raman spectrum of which does not correspond to that of any of the laser-induced degradation products of PbO2 at any of the wavelengths used. The Raman results are critical to the future use of Raman microscopy for the identification of lead pigments on artworks.

Dimolybdenum bis((S,S,S)-triisopropanolaminate(3-)): a blue compound with an unusual Mo-Mo triple bond

Mo2(OtBu)6 and Mo2(NMe2)6 each react with (S,S,S)-triisopropanolamine (2 equiv) in benzene to yield dimolybdenum bis((S,S,S)-isopropanolaminate(3-)), Mo2[(OC-(S)-HMeCH2)3N]2 (M identical to M), as a blue crystalline solid. Cell parameters at -160 degrees C: a = 17.389(6) A, b = 10.843(3) A, c = 10.463(3) A, beta = 125.28(1) degrees, Z = 2 in space group C2. The molecular structure involves an Mo2 unit inside an O6N2 distorted cubic box. The Mo2 axis is disordered about three positions with occupancy factors of ca. 45%, 45%, and 10%. Despite this disorder, the molecular structure is shown to contain a central Mo identical to Mo unit of distance 2.15(3) A coordinated to two triolate ligands which each have two chelating arms and one that spans the Mo identical to Mo bond. The local Mo2O6N2 moiety has approximate C2h symmetry, and the Mo-N distances are long, 2.4 A. The 1H and 13C(1H) NMR spectra recorded in benzene-d6 are consistent with the geometry found in the solid-state structure. The blue color arises from weak absorptions, epsilon approximately 150 dm3 mol-1 cm-1, at 580 and 450 nm in the visible region of the electronic absorption spectrum. Raman spectra recorded in KCl reveal pronounced resonance effects with excitation wavelengths of 488.0, 514.5, and 568.2 nm, particularly for the 322 cm-1 band, which can probably be assigned to nu(Mo identical to Mo). The electronic structure of this compound is investigated by B3LYP DFT calculations, and a comparison is made with the more typical ethane-like (D3d) Mo2(OR)6 compounds is presented. The distortion imposed on the molecule by the triisopropanolaminate(3-) ligands removes the degeneracy of the M-M pi molecular orbitals. The HOMO and SHOMO are both M-M pi and M-O sigma* in character, while the LUMO is M-M pi* and the SLUMO is predominantly M-O sigma* with metal sp character. The calculated singlet-singlet transition energies are compared with those implicit in the observed electronic spectrum.

Photonuclear physics when a multiterawatt laser pulse interacts with solid targets

When a laser pulse of intensity 10(19) W cm(-2) interacts with solid targets, electrons of energies of some tens of MeV are produced. In a tantalum target, the electrons generate an intense highly directional gamma-ray beam that can be used to carry out photonuclear reactions. The isotopes 11C, 38K, (62,64)Cu, 63Zn, 106Ag, 140Pr, and 180Ta have been produced by (gamma,n) reactions using the VULCAN laser beam. In addition, laser-induced nuclear fission in 238U has been demonstrated, a process which was theoretically predicted at such laser intensities more than ten years ago. The ratio of the 11C and the 62Cu beta(+) activities yields shot-by-shot temperatures of the suprathermal electrons at laser intensities of approximately 10(19) W cm(-2).

Pressure and volume overloads are associated with ventricular hypertrophy in male rainbow trout

We investigated whether ventricular hypertrophy in reproductively mature male trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is associated with elevated hemodynamic loads. We measured ventral aortic blood pressure, pulse pressure dynamics, and blood volume in cannulated, unanesthetized trout with a wide range of relative ventricle masses (RVM, 0.076-0.199% of body wt). We also investigated in vitro pressure-volume dynamics in the bulbus arteriosus taken from trout with a wide range of RVMs. RVM was positively correlated with peak systolic pressure (SBP), mean blood pressure, and pulse pressure. Diastolic pressure and the absolute duration of arterial systole were similar among all animals, but a lower heart rate and a smaller relative duration of arterial systole were correlated with increasing RVM. Blood volume was expanded up to 34% as ventricles enlarged, and clearance of Evans blue dye was greater at higher SBP. Mass, maximal volume, and the pressure-volume dynamics of the bulbus were similar among all animals, suggesting that the bulbus did not compensate for ventricular enlargement. This conclusion was supported by the elevated maximal rates of arterial pressure development (+dP/dt) and decay (-dP/dt) observed as RVM increased. We conclude that 1) mature trout are hypertensive and hypervolemic, 2) the dynamics of the bulbus may contribute to increased afterload, and 3) these changes in hemodynamic load may promote ventricular hypertrophy.

Vinylfurans revisited: A new sesquiterpene from euryspongia deliculata

A novel furanoterpene (2), iso-dehydrodendrolasin, has been isolated from the tropical marine sponge Euryspongia deliculata and characterized by 2D NMR.

Glioblastoma presenting as carbon monoxide poisoning

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Carbon monoxide poisoning treated with hyperbaric oxygen: metabolic acidosis as a predictor of treatment requirements

A retrospective case note analysis was made of patients who received hyperbaric oxygen for carbon monoxide poisoning and were admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital Haslar between 1991 and 1995. Males predominated (38 v 10) as did cases of deliberate self poisoning (31 v 17). The most common presenting feature was unconsciousness, which is an indication for hyperbaric oxygen and therefore reflects referral patterns. If patients had not recovered completely after one hyperbaric exposure further treatments were given. The initial hydrogen ion concentration of those requiring more than one treatment was significantly higher than those who recovered after the first treatment. The initial carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) concentration showed only a trend to being higher in the multiple treatment group. Although metabolic acidosis is well recognised, its relationship to treatment requirements has not been shown previously. Initial COHb does not always correlate well with severity of poisoning which relates to the mechanism of toxicity of carbon monoxide: binding of carbon monoxide to the intracellular oxygen carrying proteins (for example cytochromes) rather than solely to haemoglobin. These findings are consistent with this mechanism and suggests that initial acidosis is a better predictor of treatment requirements and severity than initial COHb.

Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis: a rapid method for differentiating BoLA-DRB3 alleles

The products of the BoLA-DRB3 locus are important molecules in the bovine immune response. Several techniques have been used to study and define this locus but they are generally time consuming and limited in their ability to detect novel alleles. In this study we used denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), and direct sequencing, for BoLA-DRB3-typing. First, modified locus-specific primers were used in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a 240 bp fragment of exon 2 of BoLA-DRB3 from the genomic DNA of 22 cattle and one pair of twin calves. The reverse primer included a GC-rich clamp to improve the physical separation of the BoLA-DRB3 alleles by DGGE. The denaturing gradient needed to produce separation of alleles was determined using perpendicular DGGE, and this gradient was then applied to parallel denaturing gels. The optimal time for producing allele separation was determined using a time-series analysis. The bands representing individual BoLA-DRB3 alleles were excised from the gels, reamplified, and the nucleotide sequence determined using fluorescent-based automated cycle sequencing. The nucleotide sequences of the separated bands were then compared to published BoLA-DRB3 alleles. A gradient of 10-15% acrylamide combined with a 15-50% ureaformamide gradient was successfully used to separate BoLA-DRB3 alleles in all individuals examined. Nucleotide sequencing showed that the 24 animals possessed 13 BoLA-DRB3 alleles, all of which have been previously described. The BoLA-DRB3 genotypes included 20 heterozygotes and two homozygotes. Three BoLA-DRB3 alleles were seen in each of the twin calves, possibly due to leukochimerism. The technique is reliable and rapid, and avoids cloning alleles prior to nucleotide sequencing and therefore offers distinct advantages over previous techniques for BoLA-DRB3-typing.

Morphometric and biochemical characteristics of ventricular hypertrophy in male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

We examined the morphometric and biochemical effects of ventricular hypertrophy in male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during sexual maturation. Our investigation focused on characterizing the growth of ventricular layers, on cardiomyocyte dimensions (length, cross-sectional area and cell volume) and on the activities of enzymes involved in intermediary metabolism. Relative ventricle mass (100 x ventricle mass/body mass) increased by as much as 2.4-fold during sexual maturation [as defined by an increasing gonadosomatic index (100 x gonad mass/body mass)], and this resulted in an increased proportion of epicardium relative to endocardium. Ventricular enlargement was associated with increased length (+31 %) and transverse cross-sectional area (+83 %) of cardiomyocytes, which resulted in an expansion of up to 2.2-fold in mean myocyte volume (from 1233 to 2751 micron3). These results indicate that sexual maturation induces ventricular enlargement through myocyte hypertrophy. Cell length and cross-sectional area were similar in both myocardial layers, and myocytes were elliptical rather than circular in transverse cross section. Ventricular hypertrophy did not alter transverse cell shape, perhaps reflecting the maintenance of short diffusion distances for small molecules as cells hypertrophy. Myocyte hypertrophy could not account entirely for the sevenfold range of ventricle masses from different-sized fish, indicating that myocyte hyperplasia contributes substantially to ventricular growth as trout grow. Measurements of the maximal activities of metabolic enzymes demonstrated that ventricular hypertrophy was associated with (1) higher epicardial but not endocardial activities of citrate synthase (by 23 %) and beta-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (by 20 %); (2) lower activities of hexokinase (by 50 %) in both layers, and (3) no change in lactate dehydrogenase or pyruvate kinase activities, which were also similar between layers. These results suggest that the energetic needs of the hypertrophied trout ventricle may be met through increased reliance on fatty acid oxidation, particularly by the endocardium, but decreased reliance on glucose as a metabolic fuel in both layers.

Raman spectroscopic library of natural and synthetic pigments (pre- approximately 1850 AD)

To assist in the greatly increasing number of applications of Raman microscopy as a tool for non-intrusive, in situ archaeometric analysis, the Raman spectra of over 60 pigments, both natural and synthetic, known to have been in use before approximately 1850 AD, have been studied by Raman microscopy. Fifty-six pigments have yielded high quality spectra which have been arranged, by colour, into a spectroscopic library for reference purposes. The spectroscopic files may be downloaded from http:/(/)www.ucl.ac.uk/chem/resources/raman/speclib .html.

Management of life threatening adult postpneumonectomy syndrome

A case of life threatening airway obstruction secondary to bronchial compression following right pneumonectomy is reported. The aetiology of postpneumonectomy syndrome and the anaesthetic dilemmas faced are discussed with reference to the adaptation and use of a chest drain tube as an improvised airway to bypass the bronchial obstruction.

In vivo measurement of neutrophil activity in experimental lung inflammation

Positron emission tomography (PET) was used to quantify 18fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) uptake in rabbits with experimental pneumonitis localized to the right upper lobe. In Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced pneumonia, which causes a profound inflammatory response lasting several days before it resolves, 18FDG uptake was pronounced at 15 h after the onset of inflammation, but by 48 h there was little uptake. In bleomycin injury, which progresses from an acute inflammatory stage to chronic inflammation and scarring, 18FDG uptake detectable by PET persisted for up to 21 d. Autoradiography of histologic sections after intravenous administration of [3H]deoxyglucose 15 h after streptococcal instillation and 2 wk after bleomycin instillation showed that, in both models, deoxyglucose uptake was localized to neutrophils. In the streptococcal model there was little 18FGD signal at 6 h, when major neutrophil migration occurs. At 15 h, [3H]deoxyglucose-labeled neutrophils were present in the airspaces but not in the alveolar septa, suggesting that the deoxyglucose signal reflected a postmigratory neutrophil event, probably the respiratory burst. Thus, PET of 18FDG uptake may provide a novel and readily repeatable, noninvasive approach to the in vivo study of neutrophil activity at otherwise inaccessible sites.

Pulmonary barotrauma in submarine escape training

A 25 year old submariner sustained pulmonary barotrauma during simulated submarine escape. The unusual features of the distribution of pleural and extrapleural air are described and explained.

Cost-effective diagnosis of HIV-1 and HIV-2 by recombinant-expressed env peptide (566/996) dot-blot analysis

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the recombinant env peptides, 566 (HIV-1) and 996 (HIV-2), for their ability to serodiagnose HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection. To develop a cost-effective dot-blot format for these peptides, and to evaluate its performance in a developing country laboratory.

DESIGN

The recombinant env peptides were evaluated using a select panel of sera (n = 327) with known serostatus from geographically diverse areas. A dot-blot assay was developed and tested on a second set of immunoblotted sera (n = 331) and further evaluated in the field on a third set of sera (n = 2718) from study populations.

METHODS

All sera were evaluated by immunoblot with both HIV-1 and HIV-2 viral lysates. The recombinant env peptides were characterized in immunoblot assay before development of the dot-blot assay.

RESULTS

The 566 (HIV-1) peptide showed 100% sensitivity and specificity. The 996 (HIV-2) peptide performed similarly, but showed the presence of HIV-1 cross-reactive epitopes. When the two env peptides were used together, there was high specificity and sensitivity for detecting HIV-positive sera in both immunoblot and dot-blot formats. The dot-blot assay performed in the field showed slightly lower specificity and sensitivity for HIV diagnosis. The relative cost of this assay combined with non-commercial immunoblot confirmation was 10-fold lower than conventional commercial assays.

CONCLUSIONS

The 566 and 996 env peptides are appropriate antigens for HIV serotype diagnosis. A dot-blot assay using these peptides may be a useful cost-effective method for HIV diagnosis applicable in developing country laboratories.

Ventricular CSF shunt infections associated with Corynebacterium jeikeium: report of three cases and review

Ventricular CSF shunt infections due to Corynebacterium jeikeium are rare. Such infections may become manifest weeks to months after surgery. They are difficult to eradicate and often recur. We report three cases of C. jeikeium ventricular CSF shunt infections, all of which occurred in patients who received long-term prophylactic therapy with antibiotics and had protracted hospitalizations. Two patients had multiple recurrences, and all patients required shunt revision. Additional therapy with intrathecal vancomycin for 6-10 days after surgery was effective for this unusual cause of ventricular CSF shunt infection. On the basis of our experience and a review of six previously published case reports, we recommend CSF sterilization with intravenous and intrathecal vancomycin, followed by replacement of shunt hardware.

DLCO/Q and diffusion limitation at rest and on exercise in patients with interstitial fibrosis

Pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and pulmonary capillary blood flow (Qp) were measured on exercise in patients with a low DLCO with the aim of predicting, from the overall DL/Qp ratio, diffusion limitation for oxygen and relating it to the fall in arterial oxygen saturation actually observed. Five patients with cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (DLCO ranging from 20-54% predicted normal) exercised for 5 min at a work load equal to 60% of their maximum (45 to 90 watts). At 5 min (and previously at rest) they rebreathed rapidly for 15 sec from a 1.0 L bag containing helium (He), sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) and freon-22, 30% oxygen in argon and less than 1 ppm 11C-labelled carbon monoxide. Pulmonary capillary blood flow (Qp) and diffusing capacity (DLCO) were measured from flow-weighted breath-by-breath concentrations of freon-22 and 11CO, after correction for gas mixing delays (using He and SF6). Oxygen saturation (SaO2) (ear oximetry), MO2 and MCO2 and cardiac frequency were measured. PAO2 (ideal) was derived and mixed venous O2 saturation and content were calculated (Fick); PaO2 and PVO2 were derived from standard dissociation curves. For comparison, DLCO and Qp were measured in a similar fashion in five normal subjects exercising at 60 watts. Mean DLCO in patients with fibrosis was 9.62 (SD 2.88) ml.min-1, mm Hg-1 on exercise and mean Qp was 10.48 (SD 1.79) L.min-1 giving mean DLCO/Q ratios of 0.92 (SD 0.28). At 60 watts mean DLCO/Qp in normal subjects was 2.54 (SD 0.3), 2.76-times greater than in patients. SaO2% fell in patients by 3-15% on exercise. Predictions of alveolar-end capillary PO2 gradients from these overall DL/Q gradients showed that diffusion limitation accounted for 99% of the alveolar-arterial PO2 gradient on exercise in fibrosing alveolitis. Hughes (1991 Respir. Physiol. 83:167-178) [corrected] suggests that this simple approach overestimates the contribution of diffusion limitation by about 30%.

Professional aspirations and the limits of occupational autonomy: the case of pharmacy in nineteenth-century Ontario

This study of the professionalization of pharmacy in nineteenth-century Ontario investigates the ambivalent nature of pharmacists' work which linked it both to the professions and to mercantile activity. Despite the profession's ambiguous position, and the contest for authority with the orthodox medical profession, pharmacists in nineteenth-century Ontario, as elsewhere, were largely successful in securing their professional bona fides. Based primarily on an analysis of nineteenth-century medical and pharmaceutical journals, this article is an initial attempt to understand the conflicts which helped define pharmacists' place in the Ontario occupational hierarchy in general, and the health services sector, in particular.

Coccidioidomycosis during human immunodeficiency virus infection. A review of 77 patients

Through a retrospective review, we identified 77 previously unreported cases of coccidioidomycosis during HIV infection. Patients were classified into 1 of 6 categories based on their primary clinical presentation: 20 had focal pulmonary disease (Group 1), 31 had diffuse pulmonary disease (Group 2), 4 had cutaneous coccidioidomycosis (Group 3), 9 had meningitis (Group 4), 7 had extrathoracic lymph node or liver involvement (Group 5), and 6 has positive coccidioidal serology without a clinical focus of infection (Group 6). Coccidioidal serologies were positive on initial testing in 83% of the patients in whom such serologic testing was performed. Sera from 39% of patients were positive for TP antibodies while 74% had CF antibodies. Eleven of 12 seronegative patients had pulmonary disease (Group 1 or 2). Serologic results of other patients sent to a single reference laboratory were similar, with 26% positive for immunodiffusion TP antibodies and 79% positive for immunodiffusion CF antibodies. For the 77 patients in this study, the CD4-lymphocyte count was below 0.250 X 10(9) cells/L in 46 of the 55 patients who had this test performed, and a low CD4 count was significantly associated with mortality (p less than 0.01). At the time of follow-up, 32 of the 77 patients (42%) had died. There were significantly more deaths in those with diffuse pulmonary disease (Group 2) than in other groups (p less than 0.001). Amphotericin B, ketoconazole, fluconazole, and itraconazole were all used as antifungal therapies. Outcome could not be related to the therapy used. Of note, 3 patients developed coccidioidomycosis while receiving ketoconazole for other conditions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Smoke inhalation

Deaths from smoke inhalation remain depressingly frequent and most often occur because the victim cannot escape the toxic effects of carbon monoxide. Delayed sequelae of smoke inhalation greatly increase the mortality from cutaneous burns. This article outlines the supportive care of smoke casualties and discusses some of the dilemmas in management which result from the absence of specific therapies.

Immunoglobulins and complement in demyelination induced in mice by Theiler's virus

Intracerebral inoculation of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) produces chronic demyelination and persistent infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of susceptible SJL mice. This series of experiments examined the contribution of humoral immunity and C to myelin destruction. As in multiple sclerosis, mice persistently infected with TMEV had elevated levels of IgG and oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Immunoblot studies revealed that even in animals exhibiting profound demyelination, IgG in the serum and CSF was directed primarily at virus antigen rather than at normal myelin components. Inflammatory cells positive for Ig were distributed mainly around blood vessels, but occasionally they infiltrated the spinal cord parenchyma. Rare examples of myelin sheaths positive for IgG were found by immunoelectron microscopy in spinal cord sections from infected mice; the third component of complement (C3) was commonly found in the walls of CNS blood vessels but not on myelin. Neither serum nor CSF IgG from infected mice bound to myelin sheaths or other CNS components in sections of normal syngeneic spinal cord. There were significantly more demyelinating lesions in infected mice depleted of C components with cobra venom factor. These data do not support a humoral autoimmune basis for the CNS demyelination that occurs in association with persistent TMEV infection. However, the humoral immune response directed at TMEV antigens may either limit virus spread or promote virus persistence.

Immunoglobulins and complement in demyelination induced in mice by Theiler's virus

Intracerebral inoculation of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) produces chronic demyelination and persistent infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of susceptible SJL mice. This series of experiments examined the contribution of humoral immunity and C to myelin destruction. As in multiple sclerosis, mice persistently infected with TMEV had elevated levels of IgG and oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Immunoblot studies revealed that even in animals exhibiting profound demyelination, IgG in the serum and CSF was directed primarily at virus antigen rather than at normal myelin components. Inflammatory cells positive for Ig were distributed mainly around blood vessels, but occasionally they infiltrated the spinal cord parenchyma. Rare examples of myelin sheaths positive for IgG were found by immunoelectron microscopy in spinal cord sections from infected mice; the third component of complement (C3) was commonly found in the walls of CNS blood vessels but not on myelin. Neither serum nor CSF IgG from infected mice bound to myelin sheaths or other CNS components in sections of normal syngeneic spinal cord. There were significantly more demyelinating lesions in infected mice depleted of C components with cobra venom factor. These data do not support a humoral autoimmune basis for the CNS demyelination that occurs in association with persistent TMEV infection. However, the humoral immune response directed at TMEV antigens may either limit virus spread or promote virus persistence.

Autogenous rib graft-hydroxylapatite augmentation of the severely atrophic mandible: preliminary report

Traditional transoral rib grafts were combined with particulate hydroxylapatite (HA) for augmentation in four patients who had advanced alveolar atrophy or cortical resection of the mandible. Follow-up evaluation for up to 18 months revealed restoration of mandibular morphology, with good prosthetic function and insignificant resorption. No infection or graft loss was observed, in spite of wound dehiscence in two of the four patients, possibly due to the placement of the HA lateral and superior to the rib grafts.

Improved assay for total hemolytic complement

Analysis of human serum for total hemolytic complement (CH50) is useful in following the course of patients who have diseases such as lupus nephritis or hypocomplementemic glomerulonephritis. A semi-automated system has been devised that facilitates test performance and reduces cost. An Autoprep dilutor is driven by an Apple IIe microprocessor. Samples are picked up, diluted with buffer, and added to a 96-well flat-bottom Linbro plate in a final volume of 100 microliters. Sensitized sheep RBC (100 microliters) are then added to each well. The plate is incubated at 37 degrees C for 90 min, agitated on a shaker, and then read by a Dynatech MR600 plate reader at 630 nm. The microprocessor converts the reading to percentage hemolysis by utilizing both a buffer blank and a complete hemolysis blank (saponin); these values are applied to the von Krogh equation to yield a CH50 value. Values obtained for normal human serum samples correlate well with those from an established semi-automated method (Technicon) in use in our laboratory.

Clinical observations on the response of equine hoof defects to dietary supplementation with biotin

Horses with weak hoof horn, which becomes misshapen and crumbles around the lower parts of the hoof walls, pose problems for treatment in practice. The effects of dietary supplementation with a high level of the B-group vitamin biotin (which has proved successful in the treatment of the similar condition in pigs) were investigated in more than 40 cases. Varying degrees of improvement in the hardness, integrity and conformation of the hoof horn were observed in all cases. The signs and progress seen in three typical cases are described. It is concluded that dietary supplementation with 10 to 30 mg biotin/day (depending on bodyweight) for not less than six to nine months is a useful treatment to support other remedial measures in such cases.

Surgical treatment of an abscess in a Rathke's cleft cyst

An abscess in a Rathke's cleft cyst was surgically treated in a 39-year-old man. The patient presented with headaches, fever, and visual deficits. Transcranial decompression of the optic chiasm was carried out first. The abscess recurred, however, and drainage of the abscess and removal of its wall via the transsphenoidal route was carried out 4 weeks later. Visual evoked responses were useful in the successful management of this lesion. The patient regained normal pituitary function and visual function after the operation.

Herpes simplex virus from the lower respiratory tract in adult respiratory distress syndrome

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) was found in the tracheobronchial secretions of 14 of 46 (30%) consecutive patients with the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The HSV has not hitherto been associated with ARDS, and most previous reports of HSV in the lower respiratory tract have come from autopsy material. In the present study, the diagnosis during life was initially made by identification of the characteristic inclusion bodies of HSV in bronchial epithelial cells obtained from tracheobronchial aspiration. The presence of HSV in the lower respiratory tract was associated with the need for more prolonged respiratory support and an increased late mortality.

The effect of irrigation and nitrogen on the yield and composition of peppermint oil (Mentha piperita L.)

Peppermint was harvested twice during the growing season. Harvest 1 was conducted on 16 February 1979, and the subsequent regrowth was harvested on 25 April 1979. High peppermint oil yields were associated with high rates of nitrogen fertilizer (100, 200 and 300 kg nitrogen/ha), and high levels of irrigation (50 mm per week) throughout the last half of the growing season. The composition of oil extracted from herb at the commercial harvest date was not significantly affected by either nitrogen or irrigation treatments. The oil yield from regrowth within the same growing season was significantly affected by irrigation and nitrogen treatments applied prior to the first harvest. When 300 kg nitrogen/ha and 50 mm of irrigation weekly (during the last half of the growing season) were applied, the oil yields from regrowth approached the commercial yield obtained from one harvest. Oil from regrowth contained high levels of menthol, menthyl acetate, menthofuran and limonene, and low levels of menthone and cineole. The possibility of obtaining two commercial harvests of peppermint per season, under southern Tasmanian conditions, is discussed

Clinical study comparing acupuncture, physiotherapy, injection and oral anti-inflammatory therapy in shoulder-cuff lesions

In a single-blind trial, five treatments for painful stiff shoulder were compared for a 4-week assessment period in 60 patients. The treatments were acupuncture, steroid injection with placebo and with active tolmetin sodium, physiotherapy in the form of ultrasound and 'placebo' physiotherapy with placebo tolmetin sodium. Objective assessment was gained by use of goniometer readings to monitor shoulder abduction. Pain was measured by visual analogue scales and by a 4-point scale. Comparative assessment was also recorded and at the end of the study a success or failure was recorded for each patient's treatment. With very few exceptions all patients improved markedly, both in terms of the subjective and objective parameters. No differences between the treatments were detected. The incidence and severity of side-effects was low. It is suggested that the results show that the painful stiff shoulder may be a self-limiting condition and that any beneficial effect was really due to natural recovery. This is an important consideration because patients do not always receive immediate attention when referred to an out-patient department and the use of physiotherapy and acupuncture in such cases, perhaps, should be critically examined.

Consumption of C3 via the classical and alternative complement pathways by sera and synovial fluids from patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Five sera and four synovial fluids from patients with rheumatoid arthritis were found to contain substances which consumed hemolytic C3 in normal human serum (NHS) and in normal guinea pig serum (NGPS). These fluids were then tested for ability to activate the alternative pathway by incubating them with NHS containing MgEGTA and C4 deficient GPS. All sera and two synovial fluids depleted C3 in these reagents, indicating direct activation by the alternative pathway. Density gradient ultracentrifugation demonstrated C3 fixing activity in some specimens in the greater than 19s regions. These substances may also activate complement similarly in vivo and participate in the development of inflammatory processes associated with this disease.