A Human Microbiota-Associated Murine Model for Assessing the Impact of the Vaginal Microbiota on Pregnancy Outcomes

Disease states are often linked to large scale changes in microbial community structure that obscure the contributions of individual microbes to disease. Establishing a mechanistic understanding of how microbial community structure contribute to certain diseases, however, remains elusive thereby limiting our ability to develop successful microbiome-based therapeutics. Human microbiota-associated (HMA) mice have emerged as a powerful approach for directly testing the influence of microbial communities on host health and disease, with the transfer of disease phenotypes from humans to germ-free recipient mice widely reported. We developed a HMA mouse model of the human vaginal microbiota to interrogate the effects of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) on pregnancy outcomes. We collected vaginal swabs from 19 pregnant African American women with and without BV (diagnosed per Nugent score) to colonize female germ-free mice and measure its impact on birth outcomes. There was considerable variability in the microbes that colonized each mouse, with no association to the BV status of the microbiota donor. Although some of the women in the study had adverse birth outcomes, the vaginal microbiota was not predictive of adverse birth outcomes in mice. However, elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the uterus of HMA mice were detected during pregnancy. Together, these data outline the potential uses and limitations of HMA mice to elucidate the influence of the vaginal microbiota on health and disease.

On the origin of extraordinary cyclic strengthening of the austenitic stainless steel Sanicro 25 during fatigue at 700°C

The origin of the extraordinary strengthening of the highly-alloyed austenitic stainless steel Sanicro 25 during cyclic loading at 700°C was investigated by use of advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Along with substantial change of dislocation structure, nucleation of two distinct populations of nanoparticles was revealed. Fully coherent Cu-rich nanoparticles were observed homogeneously dispersed with high density along with nanometer-sized incoherent NbC carbides precipitating on dislocations during cyclic loading. Probe-corrected HAADF STEM imaging was used to characterize the atomic structure of nanoparticles. Compositional analysis was conducted using both EELS and high spatial resolution EDS. High temperature exposure induced precipitation of a high density of coherent Cu-rich nanoparticles while strain-induced nucleation of incoherent NbC nanoparticles leads to retardation of dislocation movement. The pinning effects and associated obstacles to dislocation motion prevent recovery and formation of the localized low-energy cellular structures. As a consequence, the alloy exhibits remarkable cyclic hardening at elevated temperature.

Factors associated with quality of life among women with fecal incontinence

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a distressing, highly prevalent condition affecting quality of life (QOL). The aim of our study was to identify predictors of moderate/severe health-related QOL among women with FI.

METHODS

Data were collected from women presenting to a multispecialty clinic from January 2005 to July 2009 with FI. All completed questionnaires on demographics and validated instruments including the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Instrument (FIQL), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) for depression, and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with moderate/severe FI.

RESULTS

The study included 226 women with an average age of 59.2 years (SD = 14.1); 92 % were Caucasian, 67 % were married, and the average body mass index was 30.0 (SD = 8.6). Their QOL was moderately/severely affected by FI in 35.6 %. Mean overall FIQL score was 2.5 (SD = 0.8). Median QOL subscale measures were: lifestyle = 2.7 (SD = 1.0), coping = 2.09 (SD = 0.9), depression = 2.8 (SD = 1.0), and embarrassment = 2.2 (SD = 0.9). Average FISI score was 31.6 (SD = 15.7) and average depression score on the PHQ was 8.93 (SD = 8.1). In univariate analyses, diabetes, irritable bowel symptoms, prior hysterectomy, history of previous medical care for FI, higher FISI and PHQ scores were associated with moderate/severe FIQL scores (p < 0.05). Higher PHQ scores and prior hysterectomy significantly predicted moderate/severe QOL in logistic regression analysis (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We confirm that women with higher depression scores and prior hysterectomy have moderate/severe QOL impairment. When evaluating FI, screening for depression should be undertaken.

Fine-scale spatial and temporal variations in diets of the pipefish Stigmatopora nigra within seagrass patches

Diets of the pipefish Stigmatopora nigra were analysed to determine if food availability was causing S. nigra to distribute according to habitat edge effects. Gut analysis found little difference in the diets of S. nigra at the edge and interior of seagrass patches, regardless of time of day or season. Fish diets did, however, vary with seagrass density: S. nigra in denser seagrass consumed more harpacticoid copepods and fewer planktonic copepods. The lack of difference in prey eaten by S. nigra at the edge and interior of patches suggests either that food was not determining S. nigra distribution patterns within patches or that differences in fish densities across patches meant that relative fish-prey densities were similar at edge and interior positions. Alternatively, any edge effects in diet might be masked by gradients in seagrass structure.

Brief communication: dental development and enamel thickness in the Lakonis Neanderthal molar

Developmental and structural affinities between modern human and Neanderthal dental remains continue to be a subject of debate as well as their utility for informing assessments of life history and taxonomy. Excavation of the Middle Paleolithic cave site Lakonis in southern Greece has yielded a lower third molar (LKH 1). Here, we detail the crown development and enamel thickness of the distal cusps of the LKH 1 specimen, which has been classified as a Neanderthal based on the presence of an anterior fovea and mid-trigonid crest. Crown formation was determined using standard histological techniques, and enamel thickness was measured from a virtual plane of section. Developmental differences include thinner cuspal enamel and a lower periodicity than modern humans. Crown formation in the LKH 1 hypoconid is estimated to be 2.6-2.7 years, which is shorter than modern human times. The LKH 1 hypoconid also shows a more rapid overall crown extension rate than modern humans. Relative enamel thickness was approximately half that of a modern human sample mean; enamel on the distal cusps of modern human third molars is extremely thick in absolute and relative terms. These findings are consistent with recent studies that demonstrate differences in crown development, tissue proportions, and enamel thickness between Neanderthals and modern humans. Although overlap in some developmental variables may be found, the results of this and other studies suggest that Neanderthal molars formed in shorter periods of time than modern humans, due in part to thinner enamel and faster crown extension rates.

Three-dimensional molar enamel distribution and thickness in Australopithecus and Paranthropus

Thick molar enamel is among the few diagnostic characters of hominins which are measurable in fossil specimens. Despite a long history of study and characterization of Paranthropus molars as relatively 'hyper-thick', only a few tooth fragments and controlled planes of section (designed to be proxies of whole-crown thickness) have been measured. Here, we measure molar enamel thickness in Australopithecus africanus and Paranthropus robustus using accurate microtomographic methods, recording the whole-crown distribution of enamel. Both taxa have relatively thick enamel, but are thinner than previously characterized based on two-dimensional measurements. Three-dimensional measurements show that P. robustus enamel is not hyper-thick, and A. africanus enamel is relatively thinner than that of recent humans. Interspecific differences in the whole-crown distribution of enamel thickness influence cross-sectional measurements such that enamel thickness is exaggerated in two-dimensional sections of A. africanus and P. robustus molars. As such, two-dimensional enamel thickness measurements in australopiths are not reliable proxies for the three-dimensional data they are meant to represent. The three-dimensional distribution of enamel thickness shows different patterns among species, and is more useful for the interpretation of functional adaptations than single summary measures of enamel thickness.

Molar development in common chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)

Numerous studies have reported on enamel and dentine development in hominoid molars, although little is known about intraspecific incremental feature variation. Furthermore, a recent histological study suggested that there is little or no time between age at chimpanzee crown completion and age at molar eruption, which is unlikely given that root growth is necessary for tooth eruption. The study presented here redefines growth standards for chimpanzee molar teeth and examines variation in incremental features. The periodicity of Retzius lines in a relatively large sample was found to be 6 or 7 days. The number of Retzius lines and cuspal enamel thickness both vary within a cusp type, among cusps, and among molars, resulting in marked variation in formation time. Daily secretion rate is consistent within analogous cuspal zones (inner, middle, and outer enamel) within and among cusp types and among molar types. Significantly increasing trends are found from inner to outer cuspal enamel (3 to 5 microns/day). Cuspal initiation and completion sequences also vary, although sequences for mandibular molar cusps are more consistent. Cusp-specific formation time ranges from approximately 2 to 3 years, increasing from M1 to M2, and often decreasing from M2 to M3. These times are intermediate between radiographic studies and a previous histological study, although both formation time within cusps and overlap between molars vary considerably. Cusp-specific (coronal) extension rates range from approximately 4 to 9 microns/day, and root extension rates in the first 5 mm of roots range from 3 to 9 microns/day. These rates are greater in M1 than in M2 or M3, and they are greater in mandibular molars than in respective maxillary molars. This significant enlargement of comparative data on nonhuman primate incremental development demonstrates that developmental variation among cusp and molar types should be considered during interpretations and comparisons of small samples of fossil hominins and hominoids.

The accuracy of histological assessments of dental development and age at death

Histological analyses of dental development have been conducted for several decades despite few studies assessing the accuracy of such methods. Using known-period incremental features, the crown formation time and age at death of five pig-tailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) were estimated with standard histological techniques and compared with known ages. Estimates of age at death ranged from 8.6% underestimations to 15.0% overestimations, with an average 3.5% overestimate and a 7.2% average absolute difference. Several sources of error were identified relating to preparation quality and section obliquity. These results demonstrate that histological analyses of dental development involving counts and measurements of short- and long-period incremental features may yield accurate estimates, particularly in well-prepared material. Values from oblique sections (or most naturally fractured teeth) should be regarded with caution, as obliquity leads to inflated cuspal enamel formation time and underestimated imbricational formation time. Additionally, Shellis's formula for extension rate and crown formation time estimation was tested, which significantly overestimated crown formation time due to underestimated extension rate. It is suggested that Shellis' method should not be applied to teeth with short, rapid periods of development, and further study is necessary to validate this application in other material.

Experimental determination of the periodicity of incremental features in enamel

Vital labelling of hard tissues was used to examine the periodicity of features of dental enamel microstructure. Fluorescent labels were administered pre- and postnatally to developing macaques (Macaca nemestrina), which were identified histologically in dentine and related to accentuated lines in enamel, allowing for counts of features within known-period intervals. This study demonstrates that cross-striations represent a daily rhythm in enamel secretion, and suggests that intradian lines are the result of a similar 12-h rhythm. Retzius lines were found to have a regular periodicity within individual dentitions, and laminations appear to represent a daily rhythm that also shows 12-h subdivisions. The inclusion of intradian lines and laminations represents the first empirical evidence for their periodicities in primates; these features frequently complicate precise measurements of secretion rate and Retzius line periodicity, which are necessary for determination of crown formation time. The biological basis of incremental feature formation is not completely understood; long-period features may result from interactions between short-period rhythms, although this does not explain the known range of Retzius line periodicities within humans or among primates. Studies of the genetic, neurological and hormonal basis of incremental feature formation are needed to provide more insight into their physiological and structural basis.

Validation of fermentation processes

The ability to prepare consistent biopharmaceutical products depends extensively on possession of banked and characterized cell substrates and on development of production processes which can be validated. While the attributes that define cell characterization have been extensively detailed by ICH and the regulatory agencies in the past decade, little has been specified regarding process validation for biological processes. The extent to which validation concepts can be applied to biological processes varies depending on the nature of the process, the nature of the product, and the level of knowledge regarding the relationship between process parameters and product quality. Expectations concerning the rigour of the validation programme should be adjusted accordingly. There is no single approach that is appropriate for all processes and products. At a minimum, there should be an attempt to define which process parameters are critical, and to focus the attention of validation efforts on these parameters.

The importance of histidine residues in human ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase-3 as determined by site-directed mutagenesis

Most ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (eNTPDases) are inhibited by the histidine reagent diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEPC), while being resistant to inhibition by many other chemical modification agents. We used site-directed mutagenesis to investigate the sites of modification responsible for DEPC inhibition. First, we constructed the mutations H135A and R67H in eNTPDase-3 to address the possibility that, in eNTPDase-3, histidine 135 compensates for the lack of a histidine in apyrase conserved region (ACR) 1, present in all other membranous eNTPDases (but replaced by R67 in ACR1 of eNTPDase-3). We found histidine 135 is a major, but not the sole, target for DEPC-induced inhibition in eNTPDase-3. In addition, analysis of the R67H mutant led us to conclude that this site is important for DEPC inactivation of other eNTPDases. We also mutated singly and collectively three of the most conserved histidine residues present in eNTPDase-3 (129, 257 and 447) to alanine. None of the single, conserved histidine mutations nor the triple histidine mutation inactivated the enzyme or decreased susceptibility to DEPC inhibition. However, changes in the tendency of monomers to self-associate were noted, and the triple histidine mutant exhibited a higher nucleotidase specific activity than the wild-type.

Site-directed mutagenesis of human nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 3: the importance of residues in the apyrase conserved regions

Ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 3 (eNTPDase-3, also known as HB6 and CD39L3) is a membrane-associated ecto-apyrase. Only a few functionally significant residues have been elucidated for this enzyme, as well as for the whole family of eNTPDase enzymes. Four highly conserved regions (apyrase conserved regions, ACRs) have been identified in all the members of eNTPDase family, suggesting their importance for biological activity. In an effort to identify those amino acids important for the catalytic activity of the eNTPDase family, as well as those residues mediating substrate specificity, 11 point mutations of 7 amino acid residues in ACR1-4 of eNTPDase-3 were constructed by site-directed mutagenesis. Mutagenesis of asparagine 191 to alanine (N191A), glutamine 226 to alanine (Q226A), and arginine 67 to glycine (R67G) resulted in an increase in the rates of hydrolysis of nucleoside diphosphates relative to triphosphates. Mutagenesis of arginine 146 to proline (R146P) essentially converted the eNTPDase-3 ecto-apyrase to an ecto-ATPase (eNTPDase-2), mainly by decreasing the hydrolysis rates for nucleoside diphosphates. The Q226A mutant exhibited a change in the divalent cation requirement for nucleotidase activity relative to the wild-type and the other mutants. Mutation of glutamate 182 to aspartate (E182D) or glutamine (E182Q), and mutation of serine 224 to alanine (S224A) completely abolished enzymatic activity. We conclude that the residues corresponding to eNTPDase-3 glutamate 182 in ACR3 and serine 224 in ACR4 are essential for the enzymatic activity of eNTPDases in general, and that arginine 67, arginine 146, asparagine 191, and glutamine 226 are important for determining substrate specificity for human ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 3.

Measurement of protein interaction bioenergetics: application to structural variants of anti-sCD4 antibody

This chapter has described a bioenergetic analysis of the interaction of sCD4 with an IgG1 and two IgG4 derivatives of an anti-sCD4 MAb. The MAbs have identical VH and VL domains but differ markedly in their CH and CL domains, raising the question of whether their antigen-binding chemistries are altered. We find the sCD4-binding kinetics and thermodynamics of the MAbs are indistinguishable, which indicates rigorously that the molecular details of the binding interactions are the same. We also showed the importance of using multiple biophysical methods to define the binding model before the bioenergetics can be appropriately interpreted. Analysis of the binding thermodynamics and kinetics suggests conformational changes that might be coupled to sCD4 binding by these MAbs are small or absent.

A phase II study of "decrescendo" interleukin-2 plus interferon-alpha-2a in patients with progressive metastatic melanoma after chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The authors tested a biotherapy regimen involving recombinant interferon-alpha-2a (rIFN-alpha-2a) and recombinant human interleukin-2 (rhIL-2), given in a "decrescendo" schedule over 5 days, for its activity and toxicity in 21 patients who previously had received chemotherapy for advanced melanoma.

METHODS

Patients (15 men and 6 women) were given intravenous rhIL-2 at a dose of 18 MIU/m(2) over 6 hours, followed by 18 MIU/m(2) over 12 hours, then 18 MIU/m(2) over 24 hours, and finally 4.5 MIU/m(2)/day for 3 consecutive days. rIFN-alpha-2a (10 MIU/m(2)) was given subcutaneously on Days 1-5. Courses were repeated every 4 weeks. Tumor sites were measured every 8 weeks. Toxicity was recorded using National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria.

RESULTS

No major objective responses were noted. The median number of courses given was two. The median time to progression was 2 months and the median survival was 6 months (range, 2-25 months). However, 2 patients with melanoma involving >/= 2 visceral organs (1 with a high baseline serum lactate dehydrogenase level) and a third with soft tissue metastases achieved durable control of disease and were alive a median of 30+ months later. A fourth patient had a palliative response with reversal of melanosis and a survival of 7 months. This regimen was well tolerated and resulted in no serious long term adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The response rate for this regimen was no greater than 10% with Type I and II errors each not exceeding 10%. Nevertheless, occasional durable control of disease and the nonoverlapping toxicity profile with prior chemotherapy support consideration of this regimen in these patients who have limited second-line treatment options.

Islet cell tumor of the pancreas associated with tumor thrombus in the portal vein

We report the MR findings of a 70-year-old man with an islet cell tumor that diffusely involved the body of the pancreas associated with enhancing portal vein tumor thrombus and cavernous transformation. The diffusely infiltrative tumor mass was best shown on early post gadolinium spoiled gradient echo. The tumor thrombus enhanced intensely on early post gadolinium images and was also well shown on true FISP (Fast Imaging with Steady State Precession) images. The extent of liver metastases was best shown on fat suppressed T2-weighted images. The most unusual finding was tumor thrombus involving the SMV and portal vein.

Childhood obesity

Childhood obesity has become one of the more alarming nutritional problems plaguing the American population, with estimates as high as 25% of all children being obese. Aside from obesity's associated risks, there are psychosocial and emotional burdens carried by obese children as well. Clinicians are encountering many of these children in their clinics everyday for other reasons and yet are failing to address the issue of obesity. The problem is not so much that physicians are not recognizing it, but rather that they are ignoring it, especially if the parent or child is unaware that there is a problem. Unfortunately, much controversy exists regarding the treatment of childhood obesity. This article attempts to sort through the myriad issues surrounding childhood obesity and to dispel some of the rumors and myths surrounding this subject.

Expression and characterization of chicken muscle ecto-ATPase in mammalian COS cells

Chicken muscle ecto-ATPase has unusual enzyme kinetics and properties not found in many other E-type ATPases. To determine whether the unique properties of the chicken ecto-ATPase are inherent in the protein sequence and not mediated by some unique property of the chicken system, we have spliced together two partial cDNAs encoding the ecto-ATPase. The enzymatic properties of the COS (green monkey kidney) cell-expressed protein are indistinguishable from the purified chicken gizzard ecto-ATPase, including a 2- to 3-fold stimulation of membrane-bound activity by crosslinking and lectins, properties not shared by most other E-type ATPases. The expressed enzyme is specific for nucleotide triphosphates (ATPase:ADPase hydrolysis ratio of 26:1) and is inhibited by Cibacron Blue (IC50 = 10 microM). The active, expressed enzyme can be affinity-purified with Cibacron Blue, is relatively resistant to deglycosylation, and is less stable than other E-type ATPases. Expression in the presence of tunicamycin resulted in an inactive, unfolded enzyme.

Mutagenesis of two conserved tryptophan residues of the E-type ATPases: inactivation and conversion of an ecto-apyrase to an ecto-NTPase

A human brain E-type ATPase (HB6 ecto-apyrase) was subjected to site-directed mutagenesis to assess the functional significance of two highly conserved tryptophan residues (Trp 187 and Trp 459), the only two tryptophans conserved in nearly all E-type ATPases. Mutation of tryptophan 187 to alanine yielded a poorly expressed ecto-apyrase completely devoid of nucleotidase activity. Immunolocalization of the W187A mutant in mammalian COS cells showed a cellular distribution clearly different from that of the wild-type enzyme, with the majority of the immunoreactivity concentrated in the interior of the cell. Unlike the wild-type enzyme, this mutant did not bind the nucleotide analogue Cibacron Blue and was sensitive to proteolytic digestion by chymotrypsin. These results suggest alteration of the tertiary structure, causing the enzyme to be improperly folded and retained within the cell. In contrast, mutation of tryptophan 459 to alanine resulted in an ecto-apyrase with enhanced NTPase activity, but diminished NDPase activity. Immunolocalization of this active mutant ecto-apyrase revealed a cellular pattern similar to that of the wild-type enzyme, distributed along the cell periphery and in cell processes. Coupling this active W459A mutation to a previously described mutation (D219E) resulted in an enzyme which preferentially hydrolyzes nucleoside triphosphates over diphosphates. The D219E/W459A double mutant had an ATPase:ADPase ratio of 11:1 and a UTPase:UDPase ratio of 148:1. In addition, the double mutant is substantially less sensitive to inhibition by azide, a more potent inhibitor of ecto-apyrases than ecto-ATPases. Thus, mutation of only two amino acids of an E-type ATPase essentially converts an ecto-apyrase to an ecto-NTPase.

Glycosylation is essential for functional expression of a human brain ecto-apyrase

The importance of N-linked glycosylation for the function and oligomerization of an E-type ATPase was examined by using tunicamycin and peptide N-glycosidase F, two agents used to prevent and remove glycosylations, respectively. The cDNA encoding a human ecto-apyrase (HB6), predicted to have seven N-linked glycosylation sites, was transiently expressed in mammalian COS cells and the resulting membrane preparations were treated with peptide N-glycosidase F (PNGase-F). PNGase-F caused a decrease in the apparent molecular weight of the protein (consistent with glycan removal) and a decrease in enzymatic activity over time. The ecto-apyrase was also expressed in the presence of tunicamycin, which completely prevented N-linked glycosylation, resulting in a nonglycosylated core protein devoid of ATP and ADP hydrolyzing activity. However, control and tunicamycin-treated cells expressed the enzyme to similar levels and localization. Interestingly, the quaternary structure of this E-type ATPase appears to be dependent upon the presence of glycan chains. The glycosylated ecto-apyrase exists as a homodimer in situ as assessed by both size-exclusion chromatography of detergent-solubilized ecto-apyrase and cross-linking of membrane-bound ecto-apyrase, in contrast to the enzymatically deglycosylated ecto-apyrase and the tunicamycin-treated ecto-apyrase. These results suggest that glycosylation is necessary for homooligomerization and nucleotide hydrolyzing activity, but not for expression and plasma membrane localization of the E-type ATPase. Similar results were obtained with another human ecto-apyrase, CD39, suggesting that the importance of glycosylation may be generalized to all membrane-bound E-type ATPases.

Site-directed mutagenesis of a human brain ecto-apyrase: evidence that the E-type ATPases are related to the actin/heat shock 70/sugar kinase superfamily

On the basis of sequence homologies observed between members of the E-type ATPases and the phosphate binding motifs of the actin/heat shock protein 70/sugar kinase superfamily, a human ecto-apyrase was analyzed by site-directed mutagenesis of conserved amino acids in apyrase conserved regions (ACR) I and IV. The expressed proteins were analyzed to assess the significance of these amino acids. A conserved aspartic acid residue in ACR IV was mutated to alanine, asparagine, and glutamic acid, and the relative activity and Km for ATP and ADP were determined. Mutation of this Asp 219 to Ala or Asn yielded an enzyme severely reduced in ATP hydrolyzing activity (>90%) and completely devoid of ADPase activity, along with a similar extent of inhibition of hydrolysis of other nucleoside di- and triphosphates. Interestingly, mutation of Asp 219 to Glu completely restored the ability of the enzyme to hydrolyze nucleoside triphosphates at levels above that of the wild-type enzyme, while the ability to hydrolyze nucleoside diphosphates was slightly reduced. Mutation of a second conserved aspartic acid in ACR I (Asp 62) and two invariant glycine residues in both ACR I (Gly 64) and ACR IV (Gly 221) also severely disrupted nucleotidase activity. These results demonstrate that the E-type ATPases contain the nucleoside phosphate binding domains present in the actin/heat shock protein/sugar kinase superfamily. Together with analysis of computer-predicted secondary structures, the results suggest that the ecto-ATPases and ecto-apyrases are part of, or closely related to, the actin superfamily of proteins.

Snapshot of a large dynamic replicon in a halophilic archaeon: megaplasmid or minichromosome?

Extremely halophilic archaea, which flourish in hypersaline environments, are known to contain a variety of large dynamic replicons. Previously, the analysis of one such replicon, pNRC100, in Halobacterium sp. strain NRC-1, showed that it undergoes high-frequency insertion sequence (IS) element-mediated insertions and deletions, as well as inversions via recombination between 39-kb-long inverted repeats (IRs). Now, the complete sequencing of pNRC100, a 191,346-bp circle, has shown the presence of 27 IS elements representing eight families. A total of 176 ORFs or likely genes of 850-bp average size were found, 39 of which were repeated within the large IRs. More than one-half of the ORFs are likely to represent novel genes that have no known homologs in the databases. Among ORFs with previously characterized homologs, three different copies of putative plasmid replication and four copies of partitioning genes were found, suggesting that pNRC100 evolved from IS element-mediated fusions of several smaller plasmids. Consistent with this idea, putative genes typically found on plasmids, including those encoding a restriction-modification system and arsenic resistance, as well as buoyant gas-filled vesicles and a two-component regulatory system, were found on pNRC100. However, additional putative genes not expected on an extrachromosomal element, such as those encoding an electron transport chain cytochrome d oxidase, DNA nucleotide synthesis enzymes thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase, and eukaryotic-like TATA-binding protein transcription factors and a chromosomal replication initiator protein were also found. A multi-step IS element-mediated process is proposed to account for the acquisition of these chromosomal genes. The finding of essential genes on pNRC100 and its property of resistance to curing suggest that this replicon may be evolving into a new chromosome.

Immunological detection of ecto-ATPase in chicken and rat tissues: characterization, distribution, and a cautionary note

We have generated a polyclonal antibody (CKG2) against native chicken gizzard ecto-ATPase for immunolocalization and immunoprecipitation. Active ecto-ATPase is immunoprecipitated from solubilized chicken and rat membranes and shown to be localized to the plasma membrane of the chicken smooth muscle cells. This antibody is specific for the ecto-ATPases, since the more abundant chicken stomach ecto-apyrase is not recognized in immunoprecipitation, western blot or immunolocalization analyses. The CKG2 antibody cross-reacts with mammalian (rat) ecto-ATPase in western blots, with testis being the most abundant source. Interestingly, when the same rat membranes are analyzed by western blot under non-reducing conditions, the 66 kDa ecto-ATPase is not recognized, instead a 200 kDa protein is detected, previously postulated to be an oligomer of ecto-ATPase. However, this 200 kDa cross-reacting protein is not related to the ecto-ATPases, but is instead an immunoglobulin binding protein, comprised of 50 kDa subunits.

Cloning, sequencing, and expression of a human brain ecto-apyrase related to both the ecto-ATPases and CD39 ecto-apyrases1

An extracellular ATPase (E-type ATPase) clone was isolated from a human brain cDNA library and sequenced. The transcript shows similarity to the previously published chicken smooth muscle and rat brain ecto-ATPase cDNAs, human CD39L1 cDNA (putative human ecto-ATPase), and mammalian CD39 (lymphoid cell activation antigen, ecto-apyrase, ATPDase, ATP-diphosphohydrolase) cDNAs. The full-length human brain cDNA encodes a 529 amino acid glycoprotein with a putative membrane spanning region near each terminus, with the majority of the protein found extracellularly. Expression of this clone in mammalian COS-1 cells yielded NaN3-sensitive ATPase and ADPase activity detectable both on intact cells and cell membrane preparations. The nucleotide hydrolysis ratio of the expressed protein is approx. 2.75:1 (ATPase:ADPase activity), classifying it as an ecto-apyrase. However, this hydrolysis ratio is intermediate between that observed for the ecto-ATPases and the CD39 ecto-apyrases (L. Plesner, Int. Rev. Cytol. 158 (1995) 141-214). Quantitative analyses of amino acid identities and similarities between this ecto-apyrase and other vertebrate E-type ATPases suggest that this human brain enzyme is nearly equally related to the ecto-ATPases and the CD39s, and phylogenetic analysis suggests that it could be an ancestral enzyme from which both ecto-ATPases and CD39 ecto-apyrases are derived.

Cross-linking induces homodimer formation and inhibits enzymatic activity of chicken stomach ecto-apyrase

We have investigated the effect of cross-linking on the enzymatic activity and oligomer formation of the chicken stomach ecto-apyrase. Cross-linking with the hydrophobic, lysine-specific dithiobis(succinimidylpropionate) (DSP) caused equal inhibition of ATPase and ADPase activity in both the membrane-bound and detergent-solubilized ecto-apyrase. The inhibitory effect of cross-linking was reversed upon the addition of the reductant dithiothreitol. Western blots of aliquots of the cross-linked samples show decreased amounts of the monomeric 80 kDa ecto-apyrase and the appearance of a 160 kDa dimer under conditions inducing enzyme inhibition. Therefore, the chicken stomach ecto-apyrase, like the chicken gizzard ecto-ATPase, is likely a homodimer in vivo. Unlike the related gizzard ecto-ATPase, however, the native stomach ecto-apyrase is not stimulated, but rather inhibited by cross-linking, presumably due to different quaternary structural stability of the two enzymes.

Stored renin isoforms in the developing rat kidney

Fetal rat kidney contains renin in renal microvasculature, whereas adult rat kidney contains renin predominantly in juxtaglomerular cells. It is hypothesized that renin isoforms stored within these renal tissues may differ chemically and functionally. To test this hypothesis, stored renin isoforms in fetal and adult rat kidney were compared by isolating renin from adult and fetal kidney homogenate with pepstatin agarose. Pepstatin-eluted renin isoforms were separated by relative molecular size using one-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), or by isoelectric point (pI) and size using two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis. Isoforms were identified either by silver staining or immunoblotting. One-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of pepstatin-treated kidney homogenates showed a silver-stained band in the range of approximately 45 kDa, which corresponded to a silver-stained spot consistently seen on 2D gels. In fetal kidney homogenate, the approximately 45 kDa band had a pI of 5.3 +/- 0.1, whereas the corresponding band in adult samples had a basic pI of 6.0 +/- 0.05. Angiotensin I generation was measured to assess renin enzymatic activity. There was significantly more inactive renin in fetal kidney homogenate than in adult kidney homogenate (60.2 +/- 22.4 v 9.6 +/- 4.0 ng AI/mg protein/h, P < .05). There was significantly less active renin in fetal kidney homogenate than in adult kidney homogenate (5.4 +/- 0.4 v 36.5 +/- 14.2 ng AI/mg protein/h, P < .05). The average total renin activity in fetal kidney homogenate was significantly higher than in adult kidney homogenate (65.6 +/- 22.3 v 46.0 +/- 15.2, P < .05). These results demonstrate major differences in the physical and enzymatic forms of stored renin found in fetal and adult kidney. It is speculated that these variations in stored renin isoforms play a role in the developmental differential regulation of the intrarenal renin angiotensin system.

Segmented filamentous bacteria in the bovine small intestine

Segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) were observed in a 28-day-old calf, attached to the absorptive villi. Morphologically, they were similar to SFB described in other animal species. Because these organisms cannot be cultured, further characterization was not possible. The organisms were confined to the upper third of the absorptive villi and were not seen attached to the follicle-associated epithelium of the Peyer's patch, or observed in the caecum or colon. Although they were often associated with minor lesions, their pathological significance was doubtful. With this report, segmented filamentous bacteria have now been described in virtually all the commercially important livestock and poultry species, in other domestic animals, and in man.

Hopper: software for automating data tracking and flow in DNA sequencing

MOTIVATION

Genome-scale DNA sequencing is a multistep process in which large numbers of small template clones are propagated, purified, sequenced and analyzed on acrylamide gels. A significant challenge to these projects is the scale at which the data handling must be done. Hence, large-scale sequencing facilities will benefit from tracking template DNA information (purification methods, reaction and electrophoresis conditions) in a systematic fashion. A lack of software tools that support automated sample entry, and automatic data storage, retrieval and analysis are a major hindrance to recording and using laboratory workflow information to monitor the overall quality of data production.

RESULTS

The UNIX file system has been used to prototype automation of the flow of data from the ABI sequencer to a data repository. Data are automatically processed by a central Perl program, Hopper, which runs a series of programs that analyze data quality (read length estimate, fraction of indeterminate bases, and number of contaminating and repetitive sequences), assemble shotgun sequence data, and generates simple reports describing the results.

Food control systems in Canada

This paper provides an overview of the responsibilities and jurisdictional boundaries of Health Canada (HC) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with regard to food regulation in Canada. It examines their interagency coordination within the federal structure and with other levels of government, industry, and the consumer. The international developments are considered with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Canada, United States Trade Agreement (CUSTA) being regarded as likely to have a significant future impact. The federal food safety and quality system is complex and fragmented. Federal food regulation comes under the jurisdiction of four federal departments: HC, AAFC, Industry Canada (IC), and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (FOC). All four departments are involved with inspection, surveillance, and the analysis of food sold in Canada. In addition, Canada's ten provincial and two territorial governments have provincial-, regional-, municipal-, and local-level governments that also have jurisdiction over food safety and quality. Consideration is first given to the main legislative provision covering food--the Federal Food and Drugs Act. This Act is administered by several of the Federal Government departments. The role of these departments is examined individually along with additional, more specific legal provisions for which responsibility is not divided (in particular, the Canada Agricultural Products [CAP] Act administered by AAFC, and the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act [CPLA] administered by IC). The various reviews that have taken place in the recent past and those still in progress are considered, and the final part of this paper looks at the international developments that are likely to have a major impact on the future development of the Canadian food control system.

A soluble ecto-ATPase from Tetrahymena thermophila: purification and similarity to the membrane-bound ecto-ATPase of smooth muscle

For the first time, a soluble, dedicated E-type ecto-ATPase has been identified and purified. This fully soluble ecto-ATPase is released into the growth media of the single-celled eukaryote, Tetrahymena, at a constant rate over time (independent of the growth phase of the cells) and it has characteristics similar to those previously described for the membrane-bound ecto-enzyme in Tetrahymena. It was purified by a combination of ion-exchange, size exclusion, and affinity chromatography and nondenaturing gel electrophoresis. Its molecular weight was determined to be approximately 66,000 Da by denaturing gel electrophoresis and approximately 69,000 Da by size exclusion chromatography of the native form. The purified soluble enzyme displays the general characteristics of a dedicated E-type ecto-ATPase such as Ca2+ or Mg2+ dependence, hydrolysis of ATP and other nucleoside triphosphates (but not nucleoside diphosphates) and insensitivity to common ATPase inhibitors (vanadate, azide, ouabain, N-ethylmaleimide and p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonate). It was further shown to be immunologically similar (by polyclonal antibodies) to both the membrane-bound ecto-ATPase of chicken gizzard smooth muscle (66 kDa) and a 66-kDa protein in Tetrahymena plasma membranes. The ecto-ATPase enzyme activity was also shown to be present in both the body plasma membrane and ciliary plasma membrane fractions but the body membrane had slightly higher specific activities. We propose that this ecto-ATPase of Tetrahymena may play a role in inactivating purinergic signals, such as in their chemorepulsion responses to external GTP and ATP. It may also play a minor role in extracellular nucleotide scavenging.

Force decay and deformation of orthodontic elastomeric ligatures

This study evaluated commercially available molded gray elastomeric ligatures from seven companies for force decay, dimensional change, and the relationship between ligature dimension and force. The initial wall thickness, inside diameter, outside diameter, and force levels of each ligature were measured. Three of four test groups of ligatures were stretched over stainless steel dowels with a circumference approximating that of a large orthodontic twin bracket. Test group 1 was kept at room temperature and humidity for 28 days and test group 2 in a synthetic saliva bath at 37 degrees C, pH 6.84 for 28 days. The residual forces and dimensional changes were measured. The third test group was placed in a synthetic saliva bath at 37 degrees C, pH 6.84, and force levels recorded at initial, 24 hours, 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days. The fourth test group of unstretched samples was placed in a synthetic saliva bath at 37 degrees C, pH 6.84 for 28 days to evaluate dimensional changes due solely to moisture sorption. The results for stretched samples in a simulated oral environment revealed the following: (1) Moisture and heat had a pronounced effect on force decay and permanent deformation, (2) a positive correlation existed between the wall thickness and force, (3) a negative correlation existed between the inside diameter and force, (4) a weak correlation existed between outside diameter and force, (5) the greatest force loss occurred in the first 24 hours and the decay pattern was similar for all ligatures tested, and (6) unstretched ligatures absorbed moisture in the range of 0.060% to 3.15%. The ligatures tested appear to be suitable for use during initial aligning and leveling. However, the rapid force loss and permanent deformation of these products may preclude their use for rotational and torque corrections.

Complete genomic sequence and analysis of 117 kb of human DNA containing the gene BRCA1

Over 100 distinct disease-associated mutations have been identified in the breast-ovarian cancer susceptibility gene BRCA1. Loss of the wild-type allele in > 90% of tumors from patients with inherited BRCA1 mutations indicates tumor suppressive function. The low incidence of somatic mutations suggests that BRCA1 inactivation in sporadic tumors occurs by alternative mechanisms, such as interstitial chromosomal deletion or reduced transcription. To identify possible features of the BRCA1 genomic region that may contribute to chromosomal instability as well as potential transcriptional regulatory elements, a 117,143-bp DNA sequence encompassing BRCA1 was obtained by random sequencing of four cosmids identified from a human chromosome 17 specific library. The 24 exons of BRCA1 span an 81-kb region that has an unusually high density of Alu repetitive DNA (41.5%), but relatively low density (4.8%) of other repetitive sequences. BRCA1 intron lengths range in size from 403 bp to 9.2 kb and contain the intragenic microsatellite markers D17S1323, D17S1322, and D17S855, which localize to introns 12, 19, and 20, respectively. In addition to BRCA1, the contig contains two complete genes: Rho7, a member of the rho family of GTP binding proteins, and VAT1, an abundant membrane protein of cholinergic synaptic vesicles. Partial sequences of the 1A1-3B B-box protein pseudogene and IFP 35, an interferon induced leucine zipper protein, reside within the contig. An L21 ribosomal protein pseudogene is embedded in BRCA1 intron 13. The order of genes on the chromosome is: centromere-1FP 35-VAT1-Rho7-BRCA1-1A1-3B-telomere.

Studies on the biosynthesis of thiostrepton: 4-(1-hydroxyethyl)quinoline-2-carboxylate as a free intermediate on the pathway to the quinaldic acid moiety

Specifically 13C-labeled quinoline-2-carboxylate derivatives were synthesized from quinoline and used to study the biosynthesis of thiostrepton in a strain of Streptomyces laurentii. 13C NMR analysis of thiostrepton recovered after feeding methyl (RS)-[11-13C]-4-(1-hydroxyethyl)quinoline-2-carboxylate or methyl [11-13C]-4-acetylquinoline-2-carboxylate showed conclusively that these compounds are specifically and efficiently incorporated into thiostrepton. Both compounds were also detected in cultures of the producing organism by isotope dilution analysis. The significance of the relative endogenous concentrations of the two compounds and of the relative extent of the incorporation of exogenously added labeled material into thiostrepton are discussed in terms of the biosynthetic pathway linking tryptophan and 4-(1-hydroxyethyl)quinoline-2-carboxylate in S. laurentii. A highly specific enzyme activity was detected in cell-free extracts of S. laurentii that was capable of adenylating (12S)-4-(1-hydroxyethyl)quinoline-2-carboxylic acid. Partial purification of the enzyme was achieved. The enzyme was found to be specific for the enantiomer of the substrate which has the same absolute configuration as found in the natural antibiotic structure. The presence of one specific enzyme catalysing the adenylation process in S. laurentii was shown by photoaffinity labeling with [alpha-32P]-8-azido-ATP and subsequent SDS PAGE analysis of the labeled products. The native molecular weight of the active enzyme, determined by gel permeation chromatography, was found to be approximately 47 kDa, compared with a denatured weight of 50 kDa estimated for the photoaffinity-labeled protein. The enzyme is thus probably monomeric.

Testing for adverse reactions using prescription event monitoring

The Drug Safety Research Unit's current methods of investigating adverse drug reactions using prescription event monitoring are discussed. The statistical properties of estimators of rates of occurrence of events in post-marketing surveillance using prescription event monitoring are considered, and a simple model is proposed based on an exponential distribution of time to first occurrence of the event. It is shown that current methodology closely relates to the use of maximum likelihood estimation under this assumption and the distributions of the estimators are shown to be approximately normal, which allows simple confidence intervals and tests to be developed. Two recent applications are considered and corresponding simulations are presented to verify the approximate properties of the test statistics, based on ratios of rates over time and between drugs. Sources of bias in the rates and rate ratios are considered, including under-reporting in later months. A rule-of-thumb, developed from many years experience, is shown to be generally conservative, except when these under-reporting biases are large.

Smoking cessation: a clinical study of the transdermal nicotine patch

Although cigarette smoking is a declining trend in the United States, the amount of cigarettes consumed by the American public is the same today as in 1964. The role of cigarette smoking in many disease processes is publicly well known, and smoking cessation has been proved to reduce risk for some diseases, but the various methods of cessation are often met with a high rate of treatment failure or relapse. In this study, the short-term efficacy of nicotine-replacement therapy by way of the transdermal patch system was evaluated in 110 patients in a family practice setting. Patches were tapered from 21 mg of nicotine to 14 mg to 7 mg, each for 30 days. Subjects wore one patch for every 24 hours and were instructed not to smoke. Telephone follow-up was used at 2 to 3 weeks to check smoking status and inquire for side effects, and further follow-up of those who had completed the 3-month program was initiated 6 months after the program began. Nineteen patients never filled the prescription, and six were lost to follow-up. Of the 85 who finished the program, 35% were still not smoking at 6 months after the study began. The other 65% had relapsed. Side effects were mild and were mainly related to skin irritation at the patch site and abnormal dreams. Combinations of this cessation method with physician counseling and other behavioral methods should improve the success rate of this encouraging treatment.

The thiostrepton-resistance-encoding gene in Streptomyces laurentii is located within a cluster of ribosomal protein operons

A common approach to identify and clone biosynthetic gene from an antibiotic-producing streptomycete is to clone the resistance gene for the antibiotic of interest and then use that gene to clone DNA that is linked to it. As a first step toward cloning the genes responsible for the biosynthesis of thiostrepton (Th) in Streptomyces laurentii (Sl), the Th resistance-encoding gene (tsnR) was cloned as a 1.5-kb BamHI-PvuII fragment in Escherichia coli (Ec), and shown to confer Th resistance when introduced into S. lividans TK24. The tsnR-containing DNA fragment was used as a probe to isolate clones from cosmid libraries of DNA in the Ec cosmid vector SuperCos, and pOJ446 (an Ec/streptomycete) cosmid vector. Sequence and genetic analysis of the DNA flanking the tsnR indicates that the Sl tsnR is not closely linked to biosynthetic genes. Instead it is located within a cluster of ribosomal protein operons.

Identification of Streptomyces violaceoruber Tü22 genes involved in the biosynthesis of granaticin

A 50 kb region of DNA from Streptomyces violaceoruber Tü22, containing genes encoding proteins involved in the biosynthesis of granaticin, was isolated. The DNA sequence of a 7.3 kb fragment from this region, located approximately 10 kb from the genes that encode the polyketide synthetase responsible for formation of the benzoisochromane quinone skeleton, revealed five open reading frames (ORF1-ORF5). The deduced amino acid sequence of GraE, encoded by ORF2, shows 60.8% identity (75.2% similarity) to a dTDP-glucose dehydratase (StrE) from Streptomyces griseus. Cultures of Escherichia coli containing plasmids with ORF2, on a 2.1 kb BamHI fragment, were able to catalyze the formation of dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-D-glucose from dTDP-glucose at 5 times the rate of control cultures, confirming that ORF2 encodes a dTDP-glucose dehydratase. The amino acid sequence encoded by ORF3 (GraD) is 51.4% identical (69.9% similar) to that of StrD, a dTDP-glucose synthase from Streptomyces griseus. The amino acid sequence encoded by ORF4 shares similarities with proteins that confer resistance to tetracycline and methylenomycin, and is suggested to be involved in transporting granaticin out of the cells by an active efflux mechanism.

A liquid perfluorochemical decreases the in vitro production of reactive oxygen species by alveolar macrophages

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether reactive oxygen metabolite production by alveolar macrophages is affected by liquid perfluorochemical exposure.

DESIGN

Controlled, animal laboratory investigation of alveolar macrophage function in vitro.

SETTING

Animal research facility of a health sciences university.

SUBJECTS

Six adult male New Zealand white rabbits and six young piglets.

INTERVENTIONS

Alveolar macrophages were obtained after sacrifice from both species by total lung lavage. Macrophages were divided into control and experimental groups. Macrophages in the experimental groups were exposed to perfluorooctylbromide. To determine production of reactive oxygen metabolites, hydrogen peroxide production and chemiluminescence were measured in both experimental and control groups after chemical stimulation.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Perfluorooctylbromide-exposed alveolar macrophages produced significantly less hydrogen peroxide (1.4 +/- 1.5 vs. 2.4 +/- 1.6 nmol/10(6) cells; p = .002). Perfluorooctylbromide-exposed alveolar macrophages demonstrated significantly less chemiluminescence activity compared with nonexposed cells (0.70 +/- 0.2 vs. 1.5 +/- 0.2 mV of relative activity per 3.5 x 10(5) cells; p = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure of alveolar macrophages to perfluorooctylbromide in vitro decreases the responsiveness of macrophages to potent stimuli. This finding may partially explain the decrease in pulmonary inflammation seen in animals treated with partial liquid ventilation during experimentally induced lung injury.

Complications resulting from the use of Chinese herbal medications containing undeclared prescription drugs

OBJECTIVE

Many patients with chronic disease use alternative therapies. Our objective was to investigate complications resulting from the use of Chinese herbal medications containing undeclared prescription drugs, and to analyze these pills.

METHODS

Medical records of 5 patients with complications were reviewed. Pills from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals were analyzed for possible content of undeclared prescription drugs.

RESULTS

All pills analyzed contained mefenamic acid and diazepam. Complications related to the presence of these substances included, among others, massive gastrointestinal bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Chinese herbal medications may contain undeclared prescription drugs including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and benzodiazepines.

The structure of trp RNA-binding attenuation protein

The crystal structure of the trp RNA-binding attenuation protein of Bacclius subtilis solved at 1.8 A resolution reveals a novel structural arrangement in which the eleven subunits are stabilized through eleven intersubunit beta-sheets to form a beta-wheel with a large central hole. The nature of the binding of L-tryptophan in clefts between adjacent beta-sheets in the beta-wheel suggests that this binding induces conformational changes in the flexible residues 25-33 and 49-52. It is argued that upon binding, the messenger RNA target forms a matching circle in which eleven U/GAG repeats are bound to the surface of the protein ondecamer modified by the binding of L-tryptophan.

Efficacy and safety of gentamicin and streptomycin in Optisol-GS, a preservation medium for donor corneas

Increasing reports of gentamicin-resistant bacteria contaminating donor corneas and causing endophthalmitis have indicated that preservation of corneal storage media with 100 micrograms/ml of gentamicin alone needs reevaluation. We investigated the stability and possible cytotoxicity of streptomycin as a supplement to gentamicin in Optisol corneal storage medium. The combination of gentamicin and streptomycin in Optisol solution was stable at room temperature for at least 4 weeks and inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, alpha hemolytic streptococci, Streptococcus Group D, Propionibacterium acnes, Escherichia coli, and diphtheroids, but not Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The addition of vancomycin did not significantly improve the antibacterial effectiveness of the gentamicin and streptomycin combination when stored at 4 degrees C. The growth of 15 of 20 clinical ocular isolates of Ps. aeruginosa was suppressed by the gentamicin-streptomycin combination. Streptomycin in concentrations of up to 1,000 micrograms/ml did not decrease the mitotic activity of corneal endothelial cells as evaluated by the in vitro incorporation of tritiated thymidine or cause cytotoxicity. The addition of 200 micrograms/ml of streptomycin to Optisol corneal storage medium containing 100 micrograms/ml of gentamicin may significantly improve activity against gentamicin-sensitive and gentamicin-resistant contaminants.

Advocacy training during pediatric residency

Despite broad concerns about the welfare of children, most pediatric residents are not able to engage in child advocacy during their busy training years. Yet residency can provide an opportunity for young pediatricians to learn valuable advocacy skills by undertaking an independent project with an experienced mentor. We describe the University of Washington Pediatrics Residency Program's experience in training interested residents in child advocacy. Basic requirements are that advocacy projects must not interfere with clinical training, resident participation must be voluntary, and faculty with advocacy skills must be available to help guide the residents. Four resident projects are outlined and guidelines for instituting such programs are presented.

Regulation of insulin-stimulated glycogen synthase activity by overexpression of glutamine: fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase in rat-1 fibroblasts

High glucose concentrations such as are seen in diabetes mellitus are known to have deleterious effects on cells, but the pathways by which glucose induces these effects are unknown. One hypothesis is that metabolism of glucose to glucosamine might be involved. For example, it has been shown that glucosamine is more potent than glucose in inducing insulin resistance in cultured adipocytes and in regulating the transcription of the growth factor transforming growth factor alpha in smooth muscle cells. The rate-limiting step in glucosamine synthesis is the conversion of fructose-6-phosphate to glucosamine-6-phosphate by the enzyme glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase. To test the hypothesis that this hexosamine biosynthesis pathway is involved in the induction of insulin resistance, we have overexpressed the enzyme glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase in Rat-1 fibroblasts and investigated its effects on insulin action in those cells. We electroporated Rat-1 fibroblasts with expression plasmids that did and did not contain the gene for glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase and measured glycogen synthase activity at varying insulin concentrations. Insulin stimulation was blunted in the glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase-transfected cells, resulting in decreased insulin sensitivity reflected by a rightward shift in the dose-response curve for activation of synthase (ED50 = 7.5 nM vs. 3.4 nM insulin, in glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase and control cells, respectively). Rat-1 fibroblasts incubated with 5.- mM glucosamine for 3 days exhibited a similar shift in the dose-response curve. The rightward shift in the dose-response curve is seen as early as 2 days after poration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Glucose regulation of transforming growth factor-alpha expression is mediated by products of the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway

We have recently shown that glucose and glucosamine regulate the transcription of transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF alpha) in rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cells. Based on the increased potency of glucosamine compared to glucose, we hypothesized that stimulation of TGF alpha transcription by glucose is mediated through the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway. The yeast cDNA for the rate-limiting enzyme of this pathway, glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFA), was therefore expressed in RASM cells. GFA-transfected cells showed an increase in GFA activity, exhibiting a 2.2-fold increase in the synthesis of glucosamine-6-phosphate, the first product of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway. To test the effect of GFA overexpression on TGF alpha transcriptional activity, cells were transiently cotransfected with GFA along with a reporter plasmid containing the firefly luciferase gene under control of the TGF alpha promoter. GFA-transfected cells exhibited a glucose-dependent 2-fold increase in TGF alpha activity compared to control cells. Maximal stimulation of TGF alpha-luciferase activity by glucosamine, however, was equivalent in GFA-and control-transfected cells, confirming that the stimulation observed by both agents operated through the same pathway. This increase in TGF alpha activity was inhibited (85% at 0.5 mM glucose and 69% at 30 mM glucose) by the glutamine analog and inhibitor of GFA, 6-diazo-5-oxonorleucine (10 microM). Control studies confirmed that the increased TGF alpha-luciferase activity in the GFA-expressing cells was not an artifact of altered growth, survival, or transfection efficiency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Body plasma membrane vesicles from Paramecium contain a vanadate-sensitive Ca(2+)-ATPase

Paramecia are an excellent model system for studying the mechanisms involved in sensory transductions and intracellular Ca2+ regulation. These cells have two functionally distinct plasma membrane domains, body and cilia. The body plasma membrane is responsible for transduction of sensory stimuli into receptor potentials and the ciliary membrane is required for Ca2+ action potentials. Although ciliary membrane vesicles (cmv) have been purified and well characterized, body plasma membranes have not. We have generated body plasma membrane vesicles (bmv) by homogenization of deciliated cells and purified them from the microsome fraction by a two-phase aqueous polymer separation. The major criteria for purity of the bmv fraction are: (i) It is enriched 15-fold for a known plasma membrane marker (immobilization antigen) while the marker activities for other membranes were all decreased. The protein banding pattern of bmv is generally similar to cmv on SDS-PAGE. (ii) It contains a vanadate-sensitive Ca(2+)-ATPase activity that has been suggested to be a plasma membrane Ca2+ pump. The specific activity of this bmv Ca(2+)-ATPase is increased 4-fold over that of the homogenate. (iii) The phospholipid, fatty acid, and sterol composition of the bmv fraction are indicative of plasma membranes because they are qualitatively similar to cmv. The bmv also contains a membrane-bound NADPH-dependent cytochrome c reductase activity, suggesting that it may play a role in body plasma membrane function. This purified bmv preparation is useful for studying the role of the body plasma membrane in Ca2+ regulation, sensory transduction, protein and lipid trafficking, and plasma membrane fusion events.

Combination antibiotic supplementation of corneal storage medium

Gram-positive cocci frequently contaminate donor corneal tissue and represent the most common cause of postkeratoplasty endophthalmitis. Although gentamicin is currently added to corneal storage medium in an effort to decrease bacterial contamination of donor tissue, it has poor or variable in vitro activity against many strains of streptococci and staphylococci. To investigate whether the antibiotic supplementation of corneal storage media could be improved, we surveyed 11 antibiotics for antimicrobial efficacy under simulated storage conditions against gentamicin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and St. viridans. All antibiotics showed markedly reduced activity at 4 C as compared to their predicted activity at 37 C. Bactericidal activity of streptomycin and tobramycin was enhanced by preceding 4 C storage with a three-hour period at room temperature (23 C). Under these conditions, streptomycin showed the best antimicrobial activity of the 11 antibiotics tested. Addition of gentamicin to streptomycin resulted in further improvement of activity against S. aureus and S. epidermidis, whereas the addition of penicillin G to streptomycin enhanced the activity against St. viridans. Optimal antibiotic activity (99% or more killing) against all four isolates of gentamicin-resistant gram-positive cocci was best achieved with the combination of gentamicin, streptomycin, and penicillin G, coupled with a three-hour period at room temperature before 4 C storage.

Analysis of individual CNS protein synthesis

A procedure for labeling rat CNS proteins in vivo which is useful for behavioral and pharmacological studies has been developed. Intraventricular administration of 35S-methionine through bilateral indwelling cannulae provided reproducible and highly specific radiolabeling of proteins from frontal cortex (FC), parietal cortex (PC), occipital cortex (OC), striatum (ST), septal nuclei (SN), amygdala (AM), hippocampus (HIP), thalamus (TH), brain stem (BS) and cerebellum (CB). Relative rates of synthesis of over 200 individual proteins were subsequently analyzed by 2DGE. Regional analysis demonstrated increased labeling of a protein of MW 28 kD and pI 6.4 in the hippocampus that was barely detectable in striatum of control rats. In heat-shocked animals, there was increased relative synthesis of the 74 kD Heat Shock Protein in both the septal nuclei and hippocampus.