[Research Progress of Pleckstrin Homology Like Domain Family A Member 1 in Tumor]

Pleckstrin homology like domain family A member 1(PHLDA1) is also known as T-cell death-associated gene 51 (TDAG51).Studies have demonstrated that the abnormal expression of PHLDA1 is closely associated with the formation,development,and metastasis of tumors.We summarized the latest research advances in the structure and biological properties of PHLDA1,as well as the roles of PHLDA1 in multiple malignanttumors such as breast cancer,cancer,liver gastric cancer,liver cancer,melanoma,and osteosarcoma,aiming to comprehensively reveal the significance of PHLDA1 in the clinical diagnosis of tumors.

[Exploring the teaching mode about clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway for chronic hepatitis B]

Exploring a new teaching mode of CHB laboratory diagnostics to improve the teaching quality through establishment a teaching model covered the whole process of CHB disease diagnosis and differential diagnosis, treatment, drug selection, the toxicity and side effects prediction, effect monitoring, and prognosis evaluation. According to the CHB clinical diagnosis and treatment guidelines, formulated the laboratory examination and detection strategies related to different stages of CHB, and established CHB clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway. Compared the classroom teaching effect by the questionnaire between the 2016 and 2017 eight-year undergraduates from the First Clinical College of Wuhan University. In this study,the CHB clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway was established and approved by clinicians, which covered the whole process of CHB disease diagnosis and differential diagnosis, treatment, drug selection, the toxicity and side effects prediction, effect monitoring, and prognosis evaluation. The teaching quality evaluation indicators and the scores on the class test had been greatly improved with the clinical diagnostic pathway teaching mode in the classroom teaching of 2017 clinical medicine undergraduates compared with the traditional teaching mode in the 2016 clinical medicine undergraduates. In summary, the medical students not only could realize the organic integration of laboratory diagnostics and clinical medicine, but also improves overall understanding of various laboratory tests in CHB diagnosis and treatment from the teaching model of laboratory diagnostics based on the CHB clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway,and the quality of teaching for CHB has been significantly improved.

Effect of the compound bacterial agent on microbial community of the aerobic compost of food waste

In our study, we used 16SrRNA and ITS to investigate the microbial community composition and the effect of compound bacterial agent on the microbial community composition in the aerobic composting process of food waste (FW). At the bacterial level, the main phyla of Group A (compost naturally) were Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, and the main species were Pseudomonas_sp._GR7, Bacillus licheniformis and Pediococcus acidilactici. The main phyla of Group B (compost with compound bacterial agent) were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Streptophyta, and the main species were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Cronobacter sakazakii, Macrococcus caseolyticus, Enterococcus faecalis, Citrobacter freundii and Bacillus velezensis. It is worth noting that M. caseolyticus may be able to improve the effect of odour which is an important sensory index during aerobic composting. At the fungal level, the main phylum of both Groups A and B was Ascomycota, and the main species of Group A were Paecilomyces variotii, Byssochlamys spectabilis and Aspergillus fumigatus. The main species of Group B were Ogataea polymorpha and Millerozyma farinosa. Finally, the degradation rate of Group B was 81% that was about 15% higher than that of Group A, indicating that the compound bacterial agent could effectively improve the degradation rate and the composting process, while the low abundance of the compound bacterial agent in the composting process might be due to the small initial addition or the inhibition of other bacteria or fungi in the composting process.

Diagnostic development for parallel wave-number measurement of lower hybrid waves in EAST

An eight-channel magnetic probe diagnostic system has been designed and installed adjacent to the 4.6 GHz lower hybrid (LH) grill antenna in the low-field side of the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) in order to study the n_∥ evolution of LH waves in the first pass from the launcher to the core plasma. The magnetic probes are separated by 6.6 mm, which allows measurement of the dominant parallel refractive index n_∥ up to n_∥ = 5 for 4.6 GHz LH waves. The magnetic probes are designed to be sensitive to the magnetic field component perpendicular to the background magnetic field with a slit on the casing that encloses the probe. The intermediate frequency stage, which consists of two mixing stages, down-coverts the frequency of the measured wave signals at 4.6 GHz to 20 MHz. A bench test demonstrates the phase stability of the magnetic probe diagnostic system. By evaluating the phase variation of the measured signals along the background magnetic field, the dominant n_∥ of the LH wave in the scrape-off layer has been deduced during the 2019 experimental campaign. In the low density plasma, the measured dominant n_∥ of the LH waves is about 2.1, corresponding to the main peak 2.04 of the launched n_∥ spectrum. n_∥ deduced by the least-squares linear fit method remains near this value in the low density plasma with a high spatial correlation magnitude of 0.9. With an eight-channel probe system, a wave-number spectrum has also been deduced, which has a peak near to the measured dominant n_∥.

[Imaging characteristics of patients with large vestibular aqueduct syndrome and its relationship with the acoustically evoked short latency negative response]

Objective: To explore the imaging characteristics of large vestibular aqueduct syndrome (LVAS) patients and their relationship with the acoustically evoked short latency negative response (ANSR), so as to provide reference for the diagnosis of LVAS. Methods: Clinical data of 174 patients(334 ears) with LVAS diagnosed and treated by the Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, from October 2009 to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed, including 117 males and 57 females, aged from 5 months to 47 years old, with the median age of 4 years and 4 months. ABR and imaging data of patients were collected. Midpoint diameter and the outlet diameter of the vestibular aqueduct were measured on CT images, the midpoint diameter of the intraosseous parts and the extraosseous parts of enlarged endolymphatic sac(EES) were measured on MRI images. The correlation between the above measurements was analyzed by Pearson test using SPSS 17.0. According to whether ASNR was detected in ABR, the above data were divided into two groups, and the differences of the above imaging measurements were compared by the Independent-Sample Test. Results: The average midpoint diameter of the vestibular aqueduct was (1.87±0.58) mm (x±s, the following was the same), and the outlet diameter was (3.07±0.99) mm on CT; the average midpoint diameter of the intraosseous parts in enlarged endolymphatic sac(EES) was (2.39±1.37) mm, and the extraosseous parts was (2.50±2.18) mm on MRI. There was a correlation between the four measurements (P<0.05), among which the midpoint diameter of vestibular aqueduct was strongly positively correlated with the outlet diameter (r=0.760), and the remaining pairs were weakly correlated. ASNR was detected in 241 ears (72.16%,241/334) and undetected in 93 ears (27.84%, 93/334) of the 334 ears with LVAS. Midpoint diameter and the outlet diameter of the vestibular aqueduct in no ASNR group were smaller than the ASNR group, and the difference was statistically significant (t value was 2.814 and 2.754, P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the midpoint diameter of the intraosseous parts and the extraosseous parts of enlarged endolymphatic sac between the two groups, and the difference was no statistically significant(t value was 0.101 and 0.683, P>0.05). Conclusions: There is a strong positive correlation between the midpoint diameter of vestibular aqueduct and the outlet diameter in LVAS patients. There is a certain correlation between the size of vestibular aqueduct and the size of endolymphatic sac. The smaller the diameter of vestibular aqueduct, the lower the occurrence rate of ASNR.

Nutrient use efficiencies, losses, and abatement strategies for peri-urban dairy production systems

Manure management is an important aspect of urban livestock production that has a profound impact on metropolitan living. Data were collected from 28 dairy farms in peri-urban Beijing and analysed to determine farm nitrogen and phosphorus flows and costs associated with various manure management options to reduce nutrient losses. Dairy production in peri-urban Beijing was characterized by its use of high protein diets (16.3-17.0% crude protein), high reliance on imported feeds (92-98%), and low manure recycling (3.0-10.8%). Farms of 900-2000 cattle showed lower use efficiencies than farms of <900 cattle. Costs of manure handling ranged from 0.1 to 1.0 Yuan kg^-1 milk. Among various manure treatment options, biogas digesters with aerobic lagoons had the lowest N losses and costs, justifying their investments. In conclusion, peri-urban dairy production systems were contrasting with traditional systems and within their own systems in nutrient use efficiency and losses, which was mainly decided by their farm size. To improve the nutrient use efficiencies and reduce losses, farmers and managers of peri-urban dairy production system should have a full awareness of different feed intake and manure management.

Effect of miR-29c and miR-129-5p on epithelial-mesenchymal transition in experimental biliary atresia mouse models

Biliary atresia (BA) is a destructive bile duct disease occurring in newborn children within a few weeks after birth. In this study, the effect of miR-29c and miR-129-5p on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in experimental BA was explored by constructing BA mouse models via Rhesus rotavirus vaccine infection. miR-29c and miR-129-5p expression was analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. EMT was established by induction with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. miR-29c and miR-129-5p were overexpressed and inhibited, respectively, by Lipofectamine transfection. EMT-related protein (formin-like 2, FMNL2; E-cadherin; vimentin; and cytokeratin-19, CK-19) expression was analyzed by western blot and immunofluorescent assay. The results indicated that miR-29c and miR-129-5p were downregulated and upregulated in BA mice. TGF-β1 induction caused a time-dependent decrease and increase in miR-29c and miR-129-5p, respectively. Additionally, TGF-β1 induced an increase in FMNL2 and vimentin expression and a decrease in E-cadherin and CK-19 expression (P < 0.05). Overexpression or suppression of miRNA-29c or miR-129-5p, respectively, induced the inhibition of FMNL2 and vimentin, and promotion of E-cadherin and CK-19 expression, in the test groups compared to the non-intervention group (P < 0.05). However, the FMNL2, vimentin, E-cadherin, and CK- 19 expression did not differ between the control and non-intervention groups (P > 0.05). Thus, miR-29c upregulation or miR-129-5p downregulation effectively prevented EMT in BA by regulating the expression of EMT pathway-related proteins. Therefore, miR-29c and miR-129-5p could be utilized as therapeutic targets for BA in the future.

Increased survivin expression and its association with clinical parameters of congenital choledochal cysts

The aim of the current study was to investigate survivin expression in congenital choledochal cysts (CCCs), and its associations with clinical parameters of CCCs. In total, 121 children with CCCs were included in this study as the case group, and their cysts were staged according to the Todani classification system. Additionally, 49 normal gallbladder specimens from healthy children were included as the control group. Survivin detection was conducted using immunohistochemical staining. Associations between positive survivin expression and clinical parameters of CCCs were then analyzed. Positive survivin expression was observed in the cytoplasm, and was seen as granular with yellow or dark brown staining. In the case group, positive survivin expression was detected in most tissues. Specifically, compared to that of normal tissues, the cystic-shaped and fusiform-shaped CCC tissues had significantly higher positive survivin expression rates (all P < 0.05). Importantly, positive survivin expression was also shown to be significantly associated with gender and histological type (both P < 0.05). In conclusion, increased survivin expression was observed in CCC tissues, and was correlated with certain clinical parameters of CCCs, suggesting a possible prognostic value of survivin for CCC progression.

[The application of extended high frequency audiometry in detecting the early hearing loss for thalassemia]

Objective:To preliminarily explore the clinical significance of extended high frequency audiometry in evaluating the early hearing loss for thalassemia.Method:Pure tone audiometry(PTA) included conventional pure tone audiometry and extended high frequency audiometry were obtained on the pre and post-treatment day in 60(117 ears) patients from September in 2013 to October in 2014. Result:The averages of conventional pure tone audiometry for 117 cases were（15.72±11.62）dBHL on the pre-treatment day and（15.40±12.24）dBHL on the post-treatment day. There were no significant differences in PTA(P >0.05). But the hearing without detection rate was higher than before especially at 18 and 19 kHz. The differences of the hearing without detection rate between the pre-treatment and the post-treatment day were statistically significant(P <0.05).Conclusion:The extended high frequency may be more sensitive in evaluating the early hearing loss for thalassemia.

Nanoparticles and 3D sponge-like porous networks of manganese oxides and their microwave absorption properties

Hydrohausmannite nanoparticles (approximately 10 nm) were prepared by the hydrothermal method at 100 degrees C for 72 h. Subsequent annealing was done in air at 400 degrees C and 800 degrees C for 10 h, Mn(3)O(4) nanoparticles (approximately 25 nm) and 3D Mn(2)O(3) porous networks were obtained, respectively. The products were characterized by XRD, TEM, SAED and FESEM. Time-dependent experiments were carried out to exhibit the formation process of the Mn(2)O(3) networks. Their microwave absorption properties were investigated by mixing the product and paraffin wax with 50 vol%. The Mn(3)O(4) nanoparticles possess excellent microwave absorbing properties with the minimum reflection loss of -27.1 dB at 3.1 GHz. In contrast, the Mn(2)O(3) networks show the weakest absorption of all samples. The absorption becomes weaker with the annealing time increasing at 800 degrees C. The attenuation of microwave can be attributed to dielectric loss and their absorption mechanism was discussed in detail.

Lead in housing paints: an exposure source still not taken seriously for children lead poisoning in China

After prohibitions on lead gasoline additives, which have proved to be a public health accomplishment world wide, many countries focus on other exposure source of children lead poisoning. Removing lead from paints is one of the important measures. Although there have been regulatory limits on lead in paints in China, evidence reported in this article indicates that lead-based paints were very common in new paints available for housing and in existing residential paints. Twenty-nine of 58 new paint samples (50%) had lead content equal to or exceeding 600 ppm, including 14 (24%) equal to or exceeding 5000 ppm. The highest sample contained 153,000 ppm lead, about 15% of the paint weight. Thirty-two new paints (55%) contained "soluble" lead exceeding 90 ppm, the current lead limit on paints in China. Of the existing paints, 16 of 28 samples of existing paint (57%) collected from 24 kindergartens and primary schools had lead concentrations equal to or exceeding 600 ppm, including six samples (21%) equal to or exceeding 5000 ppm. The highest concentration sample contained 51,800 ppm lead, accounting for 5.2% of the paint weight. It has been shown in many areas that paint lead is a major exposure source for lead poisoning in children. This is particularly true after the phasing out of lead from gasoline. Effective limitation on lead content in new paint, and lead hazard control measures directed towards existing paint, could reduce children blood lead levels (BLLs). There has been a lead standard for paints in China since 1986 and a stricter limit was introduced in recent years. Governments should take it seriously and enforce regulations, commit a long-term challenge to eliminate paint lead as it is the threat to current and the next generation.

Normal gestation after 5 years on home parenteral nutrition

A case of normal gestation after 5 years on HPN is reported. The patient had her entire jejunum and ileum and right colon resected because of gangrene and has subsisted normally on HPN ever since. From the second trimester on, her HPN formula was supplemented to meet the requirement for growth and development of the foetus. Anaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, low plasma zinc levels and jaundice became manifest in the final trimester. These responded readily to readjustment of her HPN formula. A normal baby weighing 2020 g was delivered by Caesarean section at 36 weeks. Long-term HPN, final trimester abnormalities and HPN formula adjustments are discussed.

Latent membrane protein 1 suppresses RASSF1A expression, disrupts microtubule structures and induces chromosomal aberrations in human epithelial cells

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is closely associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and can be detected in early premalignant lesions of nasopharyngeal epithelium. The latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is an oncoprotein encoded by the EBV and is believed to play a role in transforming premalignant nasopharyngeal epithelial cells into cancer cells. RASSF1A is a tumor-suppressor gene commonly inactivated in many types of human cancer including NPC. In this study, we report a novel function of LMP1, in down-regulating RASSF1A expression in human epithelial cells. Downregulation of RASSF1A expression by LMP1 is dependent on the activation of intracellular signaling of NF-kappaB involving the C-terminal activating regions (CTARs) of LMP1. LMP1 expression also suppresses the transcriptional activity of the RASSF1A core promoter. RASSF1A stabilizes microtubules and regulates mitotic events. Aberrant mitotic spindles and chromosome aberrations are reported phenotypes in RASSF1A inactivated cells. In this study, we observed that LMP1 expression in human epithelial cells could induce aberrant mitotic spindles, disorganized interphase microtubules and aneuploidy. LMP1 expression could also suppress microtubule dynamics as exemplified by tracking movements of the growing tips of microtubules in live cells by transfecting EGFP-tagged EB1 into cells. The aberrant mitotic spindles and interphase microtubule organization induced by LMP1 could be rescued by transfecting RASSF1A expression plasmid into cells. Downregulation of RASSF1A expression by LMP1 may facilitate its role in transformation of premalignant nasopharyngeal epithelial cells into cancer cells.

Molecular and cytogenetic changes involved in the immortalization of nasopharyngeal epithelial cells by telomerase

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common disease in Hong Kong and southern provinces of China. EBV infection is believed to play a critical role in the development of NPC. Previous studies on the transformation mechanism of EBV genes were mostly performed in either NPC or nonnasopharyngeal epithelial cells which may not be representative of premalignant nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. Establishment of a representative cell system would greatly facilitate the elucidation of the role of EBV infection in the development of NPC. Using telomerase alone, we were able to establish an immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line from primary nonmalignant nasopharyngeal biopsies. The telomerase-immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cells are largely diploid in karyotype. Interestingly, this newly immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line, referred as NP460hTert, harbors genetic alterations previously identified in premalignant and malignant nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. These include inactivation of p16 by homozygous deletion of the p16(INK4A) locus and downregulation of RASSF1A expression. The deletion of the p16(INK4A) locus appears to be the most crucial event for the immortalization of nasopharyngeal epithelial cells by telomerase and precedes RASSF1A downregulation. In addition, detailed analysis of the cytogenetic changes by conventional cytogenetics, spectral karyotyping (SKY) and array-based CGH revealed a gain of a 17q21-q25 fragment on 11p15 chromosome in all NP460hTert cells which occurred before deletion of the p16(INK4A) locus. Gain of 17q has been previously reported in NPC. In addition, activation of NF-kappaB was observed in immortalized NP460hTert cells at the later population doublings, and may play a role in the survival of immortalized NP epithelial cells. Id1 which is commonly expressed in various human cancers, including NPC, was also upregulated in the immortalized NP460hTert cells. Thus, the establishment of an immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line harboring common genetic alterations present in premalignant and cancerous nasopharyngeal epithelial cells may provide a valuable cell system to examine for early events involved in NPC carcinogenesis, particularly in elucidating the role of EBV infection in NPC development.

The Interferon-α Genes from Three Chicken Lines and Its Effects on H9N2 Influenza Viruses

The interferon-alpha genes from three chicken lines were cloned by a direct PCR technique, and the effects of recombinant protein expressed in a prokaryotic system on highly pathogenic H9N2 influenza viruses were investigated. The cloned ChIFN-alpha gene encoded a protein of 193 amino acids with a signal sequence of 31 amino acids and mature peptides of 162 amino acids. Comparison of ChIFN-alpha sequences, detected six amino acids substitutions at positions 50, 58, 65, 81, 181, and 183. Homology analysis indicated that ChIFN-alpha genes could be subdivided into two lineages, SH-ChIFN-alpha and WJ-ChIFN-alpha. In addition, both SH-ChIFN-alpha and WJ-ChIFN-alpha were expressed with the N-terminal 6 consecutive histidine residues in a high-level prokaryotic expression system. Recombinant chicken interferon-alpha (rChIFN-alpha) protein has anti-VSV activity of more than 1 x 10(8) U/mg. Moreover, High concentration (10,000U) of rSH-ChIFN-alpha resulted in over 40% inhibition of the H9N2 virus infection in chicken embryos (Ovo), and 100% inhibition from one day-old to five day-old chickens (Vivo). The results suggested that rChIFN-alpha is a potential agent against many Chicken viral strains.

[Isolation of a kind of endophytic fungus which can produce taxol compounds]

OBJECTIVE

To isolate a kind of endophytic fungus which can produce taxol compounds from the bark of Taxus Cuspidata Sieb et Zucc.

METHODS

Endophytic fungus was isolated from the bark of Taxus Cuspidata Sieb et Zucc by aseptic techniques and the analysis of the culture fluid from the fermentation of fungus was carried out by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTS

Endophytic fungus was obtained from the bark of Taxus Cuspidata Sieb et Zucc and the chemical analysis showed that the culture of fungus contain taxol compounds.

CONCLUSION

Endophytic fungus which can produce taxol compounds exists in the bark of Taxus Cuspidata Sieb et Zucc.

[Estimating concentrations of serum total digoxin and digoxin-like immunoreactive substances in patients of cardiac failure with renal insufficiency]

Measurement of serum digoxin concentration is recommended as a routine in patients undergoing digoxin therapy because its therapeutic range is narrow. The presence of a high concentration of digoxin-like immunoreactive substances(DLIS) in human serum have been reported in a number of pathophysiological conditions. DLIS which cross-react with anti-digoxin antibodies, can falsely elevate the total digoxin concentration and is troublesome in the therapeutic monitoring of digoxin. The concentrations of serum total digoxin and DLIS in twelve patients of cardiac failure with renal insufficiency were estimated after determination of free digoxin by ultrafiltration with fluorescence polarization immunoassay. In these patients, the free digoxin concentration in serum determined was 0.79 +/- 0.48 (0.46-2.10) nmol.L-1. The total digoxin determined(1.31 +/- 0.80 nmol.L-1) was significantly higher than the calculated total digoxin(1.05 +/- 0.64 nmol.L-1) (P < 0.01), suggesting the presence of elevated DLIS in serum for these patients. The calculated DLIS concentration was 0.27 +/- 0.19(0.07-0.76) nmol.L-1. The results were well consistent with that obtained by recently published method of Dasgupta et al. In conclusion, the approach presented in this paper can estimate the true serum concentrations of digoxin and DLIS in patients of chronic cardiac failure with renal insufficiency.

Inhibitory effect of recombinant TGFalpha-PE40 on neointimal proliferation after arterial balloon injury

AIM

To investigate inhibitory effects of recombinant transforming growth factor alpha-Pseudomonas exotoxin 40 fusion protein (TGFalpha-PE40; TP40) on neointimal proliferation after arterial balloon injury.

METHODS

Forty male rabbits fed a cholesterol rich diet were randomly divided into TP40 15 microg, 30 microg, 60 microg, physiologic saline control, and normal artery groups (n=8). Rabbits in the treatment groups were treated by local administration of TP40 (15 microg, 30 microg, and 60 microg per rabbit) 24 h postinjury, and those in the control group were treated by physiologic saline 24 h postinjury. Remained 8 rabbits in normal artery group were treated by TP40 (60 microg). Optical microscope, electron microscope, and computer image analysis were used to study arterial segments 2 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

Irregular thickening of the arterial intima, large amounts of smooth muscle cells (SMC) within the neointima, and stenosis of the arterial cavity were observed in the physiologic saline control group. Great inhibition of intimal proliferation and prevention of stenosis of the arterial cavity were observed in the TP40 treated groups that were examined 2 weeks postinjury by optical microscope. The uninjured carotids were histologically normal. Lots of destructural and necrotic SMC were observed in media in TP40 60 microg group by electron microscope. Computer image analysis showed that the neointimal area of the TP40-treated groups was markedly smaller than that of the saline control group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Recombinant TP40 greatly inhibited neointimal proliferation after arterial balloon injury.

Inhibitory effect of recombinant TGF alpha-PE40 on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation

AIM

To study inhibitory effect of recombinant transforming growth factor alpha-Pseudomonas exotoxin fusion protein (TP40) on proliferation of the cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC).

METHODS

Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mRNA and EGFR in cultured proliferating and quiescent SMC was analyzed with Northern blot and immunohistochemistry. Inhibitory effects of TP40 on SMC proliferation and protein synthesis were analyzed with crystal violet staining and [3H]leucine incorporation. Competition assays were performed by the addition of 100-fold excess of EGF.

RESULTS

Expression of EGFR mRNA and EGFR in rapidly proliferating SMC increased than that in quiescent SMC. When the concentration of TP40 was 10 or 100 micrograms.L-1, inhibitory effects of TP40 on rapidly proliferating SMC proliferation and protein synthesis were much higher than that on quiescent SMC (P < 0.01), and the IC50 of [3H]leucine incorporation against rapidly proliferating and quiescent SMC were 8.01 (5.05-12.69) and 121.95 (90.98-163.47) micrograms.L-1. Excess EGF completely blocked inhibitory effects of TP40.

CONCLUSION

The rapidly proliferating SMC express EGFR at a high level. TP40 selectively inhibited the proliferation of rapidly proliferating SMC. The cytotoxic effects of TP40 were specifically mediated by EGFR.

Alteration of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferases in pancreatic carcinoma

The activities of three N-acetylglucosaminyltransferases (GnT III, GnT IV and GnT V) were determined in 10 samples of pancreatic carcinoma (PCa) and compared with those in 9 samples of normal pancreatic tissue (NP). It was found that the specific activities of GnT III, GnT IV and GnT V increased in all of the PCa samples. GnT III increased most significantly, up to 22.3 fold of normal, GnT IV was elevated 12.3 fold, while GnT V increased only 2.4 fold. The elevation of GnTs in pancreatic carcinoma was consistent with the increase in the number of antenna and bisecting GlcNAc structures in N-glycans of pancreatic ribonuclease (RNase) as assessed by Con A affinity chromatography. Polycytidylate specific RNase from the serum of PCa patients showed the same structural changes as that found in in N-glycans of the RNase from PCa tissue.

The role of microvascular permeability in the mechanism for stunned myocardium in rats

The microvascular permeability of stunned myocardium in rats in vivo was studied with FITC-labeled albumin (FITC-BSA). It was found that 15 and 20 min of myocardial ischemia followed by 1 hr of reperfusion resulted in myocardial stunning. The concentrations of FITC-BSA in myocardial tissue were 240.6 +/- 7.8 (IS15) and 267.4 +/- 7.9 (IS20) micrograms/g myocardium in ischemic groups, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the control group (166.0 +/- 7.9 micrograms/g myocardium; P < 0.01). In stunned groups, the concentrations were 224.8 +/- 11.8 (MS15) and 241.7 +/- 6.0 (MS20) micrograms/g myocardium, decreased from those in ischemic groups but still higher than those in control group by 35.4 and 45.6%, respectively. The more significant the concentration of FITC-BSA, the more serious the myocardial stunning. Electron microscopy revealed no significant vascular injury. The results suggest that the increase in microvascular permeability resulting from transient ischemia is functional and is involved in the pathogenesis of stunned myocardium.

Clinical spectrum of tuberculosis in older patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical differences between old and young patients infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a developing country.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart and chest radiograph review.

SETTING

A university-affiliated teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

The medical records of patients with documented tuberculosis (TB) from January 1990 through December 1991 were analyzed. Clinical assessment included sex, age, diagnosis at first visit, past history, symptoms and signs, laboratory data, X-ray findings, bacteriological examinations, outcome, time elapsed from first visit to initiation of anti-TB therapy and the major determinants for starting anti-TB therapy. Statistical significances were analyzed by Student's t test and chi 2 tests.

RESULTS

Among 205 patients with culture-proven TB, 57 were 65 years of age and older (range, 65 to 91; mean, 73) and 148 under 65 years of age (range, 16 to 64; mean, 41). There was a higher incidence of previous TB (26.3% vs. 16.2%) and diabetes mellitus (24.5% vs. 14.3%) in the elderly patients. Initial diagnosis of TB at first visit was less frequent in the elderly than in the young group (38.6% vs. 47.3%), although symptoms and signs at first visit were similar in each of the age groups. Radiographic presentation with mass lesions was more frequently encountered in elderly patients (10.5% vs. 2.1%, P < .05). Elapsed time from the first visit to suspicion of TB and the initiation of anti-TB therapy was frequently delayed in elderly patients (22 +/- 23 vs. 13 +/- 20 days, P < .05). The incidence of drug-resistance (39% vs. 16%, P < .05) and unfavorable response to anti-TB therapy (17.5% vs. 3.4%, P < .05) were significantly higher in the older patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Although clinical presentation of TB in the elderly did not differ significantly from that in younger patients, this study showed that diagnosis and treatment were more often delayed in the elderly, and there was a higher incidence of treatment failure.

Anastomotic false aneurysm following abdominal aortic aneurysmectomy and prosthetic grafting

Anastomotic false aneurysm (AFA) of the aorta is a potentially lethal complication after prosthetic grafting. Nineteen aneurysms were encountered in 18 patients within a 30-year period (1960-1991). There were 10 men and 8 women, aged 27-80 years (mean 58 years). In 14 patients, the prostheses were made of silk, in 2 were PTFE, and in 1 each Dacron or silk-Dacron cross-weaved. Patients with an intact AFA had a pulsatile abdominal mass, abdominal pain, an occluded graft and peripheral emboli. Five patients were asymptomatic. Clinical onset of AFA varied from 2 weeks to 12 years (mean 5 years). The accurate rate of diagnosis of single plane angiography was 75% (3 of 4), and computed tomography 100% (ten of ten). Ultrasound was used only once and suggested an AFA. Four AFAs were less than 5cm in diameter. Five patients refused operation and died in 2 years from rupture. Operative mortality was 11% (1 of 9). Treatment was resection of AFA and replacement with a new graft. Life-long follow-up is required for patients with an aortic aneurysm. All ratroperitoneal AFAs should be resected, since the outcome of rupture is poor.

The bacteriology of obstructive pneumonitis. A prospective study using ultrasound-guided transthoracic needle aspiration

Obstructive pneumonitis, the opacity that develops distal to an obstructing endobronchial lesion or external compression, is actually a combination of atelectasis, bronchiectasis with mucus plugging, and true parenchymal inflammation. In the majority of cases, it is usually not possible to determine whether infection is present or not from the radiographic findings alone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bacteriology of obstructive pneumonitis and the influence of this result on the treatment of patients. From March 1992 to February 1993, 26 consecutive patients (20 men and six women) with obstructive pneumonitis were investigated. The obstructive pneumonitis had been caused by malignant tumors in 24 and benign lesions in two. Chest ultrasound (US) and US-guided percutaneous transthoracic aspirations were undergone to obtain specimens for microbiologic examination. Microorganisms were isolated from seven of nine febrile patients and two of 17 nonfebrile patients. A total of 16 bacterial strains are detected in obstructive pneumonitis (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, viridant streptococci, Bacteroides fragilis, two Peptostreptococcus species, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Pseudomonas maltophilia, Streptococcus sanguis, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacteroides thetaiotamomicrons, Bacteroides intermedius, Bacteroides species, Veillonella species, aerobic gram-positive bacilli, and Escherichia coli). In five cases the isolates were monobacteriae, and in the remaining four cases, cultures yielded more than one bacteria. The results of aspirate cultures led to changes in the initial antibiotic trial in seven of nine patients, and fever subsided thereafter. Pneumothorax occurred in one cases as the sole complication. The pathogen causing obstructive pneumonitis is very heterogeneous, and polymicrobial infection is common.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Amelioration of aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity by Cordyceps sinensis in old patients]

The protective effect on aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity by Cordyceps sinensis in the old patient was observed. 21 old patients were randomly divided into two groups. Each group received amikacin sulfate for 6 days. In addition, group A was administered Cordyceps sinensis for 7 days and group B was given placebo. The results revealed that group A developed less prominent nephrotoxicity compared with group B as evidenced by less urinary nephro-aminoglycosidase (NAGase) and beta-microglobulin in group A than those in Group B. These results suggested that Cordyceps sinensis exerted a protective effect on aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity in the old patients.

Safety and efficacy of percutaneous injection of polyurethane elastomer (MPU) plugs for vas occlusion in man

This report describes the safety and efficacy of the procedure for percutaneous injection of medical-grade polyurethane elastomer (MPU) to form plugs in the vas deferens. The injection of 0.16-0.22 ml MPU in 53 men resulted in occlusion and azoospermia in 85% of the men after 12 months; 96% achieved azoospermia by 2 years. The success rate of the method and the rate of sperm suppression to azoospermia depended on the shapes of the plugs; this was determined by palpation after insertion. There were few complications and the results are discussed in terms of the reversibility potential of this method.

The all-in-one nutrient solution in parenteral nutrition

Dextrose, lipid emulsion, amino-acids, electrolytes, vitamins and trace elements were mixed in a well defined order to prepare 10 different total nutrient admixture solutions. The pH and osmolality of these solutions did not change significantly during 14 days of storage at 4 degrees C. Mean diameters of lipid particles on different occasions for the different solutions varied from 0.31 +/- 0.10 mum to 0.48 +/- 19 mum with 95% of particles less than 0.6 mum. Particles greater than 6 mum were not observed. Cultures were all negative. 243 patients received 5101 infusions of the admixture fluids. Patients on treatment for more than 1 week showed improved nitrogen balance. Serum transferrin and albumin were increased when treatment was ongoing for more than 2 weeks. No adverse reactions or abnormal laboratory findings were observed. One patient, with only duodenum and a part the colon left, has been maintained in good health for more than 55 months using this kind of nutritional support.

Ruminal metabolism, fiber, and protein digestion by lactating cows fed calcium soap or animal-vegetable fat

Effects of two levels of Ca soap or animal-vegetable fat on digestion of fiber and N and on microbial protein synthesis were studied in five ruminally and duodenally cannulated lactating cows in a 5 x 5 Latin square. Fat was added at 0, 2.5%, or 5% of dietary DM, which consisted of a 60:40 forage:concentrate mix. Treatment did not influence DMI, duodenal OM flow, or digestibility. Fat linearly increased liquid dilution rate (12.1 vs. 11.1 h-1) and reduced liquid (53.6 vs. 62.4 L) and ruminal (61.6 vs. 70.1 L) volumes. Source and amount of fat did not influence mean ruminal pH, ammonia N, or VFA concentrations; however, animal-vegetable fat reduced acetate:propionate ratios compared with Ca soap (3.47 vs. 3.64). Neither source nor amount of fat influenced fiber flow, digestion, or efficiency of microbial protein synthesis. Source and amount of fat did not change ruminal or total digestibilities of DM, OM, ADF, or NDF; however, dietary fat increased total tract apparent digestion of N (70.3 vs. 66.8). Estimates of ruminal DM digestibility were lower (24.2 vs. 39.0) and total tract DM digestibility was higher (63.3 vs. 60.5) with Cr marker compared with C31 hydrocarbon marker. Animal-vegetable fat or Ca soap can be supplemented up to 5% of the dietary DM in high forage diets without adverse effects on ruminal metabolism and digestion.

A new haplotype of the beta-globin gene complex, Hbbw1, in Chinese wild mouse

A new pattern was observed in the electrophoretic survey of the hemoglobin beta chain (Hbb) in Chinese wild mice, Mus musculus. The electrophoretic mobility of the major component of the new Hbb was identical to that of Hbbs on cellulose acetate plate, although it was almost identical to that of Hbbd or Hbbp on acrylamide gel. This suggests that the major component of Chinese Hbb has a unique primary structure. A minor component of the new Hbb was completely different from that of the other three Hbb haplotypes well known. These results indicate that the Hbb-b1 and Hbb-b2 of the new Hbb haplotype, assigned Hbbw1, are unique genes in their molecular structure. So far, Hbbw1 has been observed in northwestern China.

Transcriptional effect of aflatoxin B1 on cytosine and/or hypoxanthine containing DNAs

The effect of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the template function for RNA synthesis of several single and double-stranded synthetic DNAs containing cytosine (C) and/or hypoxanthine (H) bases is studied in vitro. The results indicate that AFB1, after liver microsome activation, strongly inhibits the template function of poly[d(I-C)] and has little, if any, effect on polydI.polydC, polydI, or polydC. This conclusion is reached whether rat liver nuclear free RNA polymerase or E. coli RNA polymerase is used for the transcription. The mechanism of this inhibition is believed mainly due to the inhibition of elongation of RNA synthesis, because autoradiography of the [alpha-32 P]GTP labeled RNAs after polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis clearly shows that the size of the RNA from AFB1 treated group is dramatically reduced. The evidence that the selective inhibition of poly[d(I-C)] template function is a direct reflection of the binding of AFB1 to poly[d(I-C)] is provided by the use of radioactive [3H]AFB1 for the binding and by spectrum analysis of the appearance of a broad AFB1-DNA adduct peak between 300 nm and 400 nm right after the typical DNA peak at 260 nm. These data, which are in direct support to our recent report (F.L. Yu, et al., Carcinogenesis, 11, 475-478, 1990), suggest that the binding of AFB1 prefers alternating, double-stranded DNA, and the binding affinity of AFB1 to DNA is greatly reduced when the bases are in either single- or double-stranded homopolymer forms.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Morphological and functional studies on microencapsulated human fetal pancreatic tissue

Fifty human fetal pancreases of 4-6 months gestation obtained from legal abortions were microencapsulated with alginate, poly-lysine after culture for 4-7 days. The microcapsules were studied morphologically and functionally. Immunocytochemical staining for insulin indicated B-cells were morphologically intact at 48 days. Insulin and C-peptide of the culture medium measured with radioimmuno-assay (RIA) showed that the microcapsules still retained the function of insulin secretion after culture for 25 days. There was no statistical difference when compared with noncapsulated tissues. No exocrine function was detected as evidenced by the amylase determination. We conclude that microencapsulated human fetal pancreatic tissues retain viability in culture for more than 25 days and can be used as transplants in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

In vitro culture and transplantation of encapsulated human fetal islets as an artificial endocrine pancreas

There has been increasing evidence indicating that islet transplantation may offer an ideal endocrine replacement therapy for patients with Type I diabetes mellitus. However, allogenic islets are susceptible to immune rejection. In 1980, Lim and Sun first reported a novel technique of microencapsulation by which pancreatic islets used as transplants could be encapsulated and immunoisolated so as to survive and function for a period of 2-3 weeks. By further improving the biocompatibility of the capsular membrane, Sun's group demonstrated that islet allografts can be protected from rejection for up to 21 months in nonimmunosuppressed, streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The biocompatible polymer capsule membrane constitutes a physical barrier to the host's immune system. Permeability of the membrane can be controlled to allow free diffusion of small molecular nutrients, hormones, and metabolites, but exclude lymphocytes, leukocytes, and macromolecular immunoglobulins and complement. Darquy and Reach, in 1985, disclosed the role of the microcapsule membrane in protecting islets from cytotoxic antibodies. Sun's group further demonstrated that the microencapsulation technique effectively protected xenografts of rat islets transplanted into diabetic mice. In a previous report, we described the success of allotransplanted microencapsulated rat islets in treating streptozotocin-induced diabetes in Wistar rats. We now report the in vitro study of human fetal islets microencapsulated within an alginate-polylysine membrane. A preliminary clinical trial of allotransplants for the treatment of insulin-dependent diabetics is also presented.

Carbon monoxide-dependent chemolithotrophic growth of Clostridium thermoautotrophicum

The acetogen Clostridium thermoautotrophicum was cultivated under CO-dependent chemolithotrophic conditions. CO-dependent growth profiles and energetics indicated that supplemental CO2 was fundamental to efficient growth at the expense of CO. Overall product stoichiometry approximated 6.5CO----CH3CO2H + 3.5CO2 + 0.6 cell C + 0.5 unrecovered C. Initial CO/CO2 ratios of 2 to 4 yielded optimal doubling times and cell yields. Maximal YCO values approximated 2.5 g of cell dry weight per mol of CO consumed; YH2 was considerably lower than YCO. Cross-transfer growth experiments and protein profiles indicated differential expression of genes between CO and methanol cultures.

A transcribed satellite DNA from the bullfrog Rana catesbeiana

We have cloned and sequenced a 360 bp repeated sequence from genomic DNA of the bullfrog Rana catesbeiana. This sequence, which we call satellite 1, makes up 0.7% of the genome (1.6 X 10(5) repeats) and is scattered throughout the length of all the chromosomes. In situ hybridization with strand-specific probes demonstrated that transcripts from both strands of satellite 1 occur on lamp-brush chromosome loops. We suggest that these transcripts arise by readthrough from upstream structural gene promoters. Sequences that cross-react with satellite 1 were found in genomic DNA of four out of five other Rana species that we tested, but were absent from the DNA of Xenopus, Bombina, and Acris.