Streptokinase for endobronchial blood clots.
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Airway Obstruction↗
Biomedical subjects
A Bansal
Publications and source records attributed to A Bansal.
Improved high altitude hypoxic tolerance and amelioration of anorexia and hypophagia in rats on oral glutamate supplementation.
BACKGROUND: The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of oral glutamic acid supplementation in promoting hypoxic tolerance. METHODS: The experiments were conducted in albino rats by exposing them to three levels of hypoxia in a simulated environment for varying periods of time. The parameters studied include: gasping time at 35,000 ft (10,668 m), food and water intake, and heart to body weight (b.w.) ratio at 25,000 ft (7620 m), tolerance to composite stress at 15,000 ft (4572 m) and biodistribution of glutamate (glu). RESULTS: Supplementation of Glu (27 mg x kg(-1) b.w.) as glutamic acid dissolved in normal saline resulted in 4.8 times enhanced hypoxic tolerance (time taken for appearance of first gasp), 23% body weight gain and 24% increase in food consumption over control during hypoxia. When animals were subjected to composite stress of cold, hypoxia and restraint (CHR), the Glu fed animals showed higher resistance to fall in rectal temperature than the control group. Hypoxia significantly enhanced heart to body weight ratio compared with control, and Glu supplementation reduced and brought it down to that of control. CONCLUSION: The study reveals that Glu in optimal doses may be a conditionally essential amino acid resulting in enhanced tolerance to hypoxia and cold.
Administration, Oral↗
Effect of hypobaric hypoxia on immune function in albino rats.
The effect of exposure to hypoxia on macrophage activity, lymphocyte function and oxidative stress was investigated. Hypoxia enhanced peritoneal macrophage activity as revealed by enhanced phagocytosis and free radical production. There was no significant change in antibody titres to sheep red blood cells in either serum or spleen during hypoxia. However, there was a considerable reduction in the delayed-type hypersensitivity response to sheep red blood cells, indicating the impairment of T-cell activity. Hypoxia decreased the blood glutathione (reduced) level and increased plasma malondialdehyde by a factor of about 2. It is therefore speculated that hypoxia imposes an oxidative stress leading to decreased T-cell acivity.
Animals↗
The significance of pANCA in inflammatory bowel disease.
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Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic↗
Membrane organization of bluetongue virus nonstructural glycoprotein NS3.
The smallest RNA segment (S10) of bluetongue virus (an orbivirus, family Reoviridae) encodes two closely related nonstructural proteins, the 229-amino-acid (aa) NS3 and the 216-aa NS3A. The proteins are found in glycosylated and nonglycosylated forms in infected cells (X. Wu, H. Iwata, S.-Y. Chen, R. W. Compans and P. Roy J. Virol. 66:7104-7112, 1992). The NS3/NS3A proteins have two hydrophobic domains (aa 118 to 141 and 162 to 182) and two potential asparagine-linked glycosylation sites (aa 63 and 150), one of which is located between the hydrophobic domains. To determine whether these features were used in the mature protein forms, we generated a series of mutants of the S10 gene and expressed them by using the vaccinia virus T7 polymerase transient-expression system. Our data indicate that both hydrophobic domains of NS3 span the cell membrane and that only the site at aa 150 is responsible for N-linked glycosylation of the NS3 proteins.
Amino Acid Sequence↗
Expression of lacZ reporter gene under the control of the polyhedrin promoter of Spodoptera litura nuclear polyhedrosis virus.
Promoter function of the putative polyhedrin-encoding gene (polh) of Spodoptera litura nuclear polyhedrosis virus (S1MNPV) was determined by transferring it to the Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcMNPV) through the AcNPV polh based vector, pVL1393. Three transfer vectors pCBT2, pCBT3 and pCBT4 were constructed by substituting the promoter and the neighbouring sequences of AcNPV in pVL1393 by that of S1NPV. The Escherichia coli lacZ gene was placed downstream from the S1NPV polh promoter in the hybrid transfer vector (pCBT) constructs. Co-transfection of Spodoptera frugiperda cells (Sf9) with each of the pCBTlacZ vector and wild-type AcNPV DNAs led to synthesis of beta-galactosidase (beta Gal). The plaque-purified recombinant viruses (S1AcNPV.lacZ) expressing lacZ under the polh promoter of S1NPV are stable. The highest beta Gal activity was obtained with S1AcNPV4.lacZ. Production of beta Gal with recombinant virus, S1AcNPV3.lacZ in which S1NPV polh promoter is in the reverse orientation in the AcNPV genome, is 83% of that produced by S1AcNPV4.lacZ. These results indicate that the S1NPV polh promoter is active in the genetic environment of AcNPV; the polh of S1NPV is phylogenetically related to AcNPV like other baculoviruses.
Animals↗
Mutation analysis of the coding sequences of MEK-1 and MEK-2 genes in human lung cancer cell lines.
Recently, constitutively active mutants of MEK (MAP/ERK kinase) were shown to be capable of transforming cells to tumorigenicity suggesting that MEK can function as a dominant oncogene and potentially play a role in human carcinogenesis. Human lung cancer cells exhibit mutations in other components of the MAP kinase signaling pathway such as the Her-2/neu and ras oncogenes. Thus, the coding sequences of both MEK-1 and MEK-2 cDNAs from human lung cancer cell lines were screened by single strand conformation polymorphism analysis and DNA sequencing for alterations in these two genes. In 37 lung cancer cell lines we found: an allelic variant in MEK-1 cDNA, nt 783 G-->A, (no amino acid change); a MEK-2 cDNA change (nt 977 C-->T mutation leading to 298 Pro-->Leu change); a MEK-2 cDNA change nt 537 C-->T (no amino acid change); and a frequent MEK-2 cDNA germline polymorphism nt 744, A-->C (no amino acid change) with an allele frequency of 0.5 for each form. These results suggest that mutations in the MEK-1 and MEK-2 gene occur at a very low frequency in human lung cancer.
DNA Mutational Analysis↗
Hemagglutinin specificity and neuraminidase coding capacity of neuraminidase-deficient influenza viruses.
Neuraminidase (NA)-deficient mutant virus stocks have been obtained by passaging A/NWS/33HA-tern/Australia/G70c/75NA (H1N9) influenza virus in medium containing neuraminidase from Micromonospora viridifaciens and antiserum against the influenza NA. Growth of the resulting mutants is dependent on addition of bacterial neuraminidase to the medium. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed large single deletions in the NA genes, with both ends of the NA gene segments conserved. These RNA fragments all have the capacity to code for a peptide that contains the N-terminal "tail" and membrane-anchoring region of the NA, but the presence of this peptide has not been demonstrated in virions or infected cells. In contrast to the ease of selection of NA-deficient mutants from the H1N9 virus, no mutants were selected from three other viruses. The HA-coding segments of parental H1N9 and mutant NWSc-Mvi predict a change of Pro to His at residue 227 (H3 numbering), close to the receptor-binding site of H3 HA, compared to the HA of an H1N2 reassortant that contains the NWS/33 HA gene. This change may contribute to an altered HA specificity that allows selection of mutants that can infect cells in the presence of high levels of NA activity. It appears that the role of NA in influenza infection is to remove sialic acid from the HA rather than to destroy receptors on cells.
Amino Acid Sequence↗
The effect of selective sampling on mapping quantitative trait loci.
Sib pairs were selectively sampled for extreme concordance or discordance for the quantitative trait Q1, a simulated phenotype (GAW10). Two selective sampling criteria were used (SC1 and SC2), and results for these were compared to linkage analyses using all pairs (ALL). In total 773 sib pairs were available, which reduced to an average of 59.7 pairs under SC1, and 134.1 pairs under SC2. Whole genome screens were performed on 10 different data replicates for each selection criterion (ALL, SC1, and SC2). Fine screens were then performed over regions which indicated at least suggestive linkage, and these regions were also fine screened in an independent data replicate in an attempt to repeat any areas found. The results for the coarse genome screens were similar under each of the criteria, although in general lower maxima and slightly more erratic lods were found under the stricter selection methods. The correct region on chromosome 5 (responsible for approximately 22% of the variance of Q1) was detected (p < 0.0001) in 6/10 of the data replicates using ALL, and 4/10 using SC1 and SC2. The second quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 8 (only 0.5% of the variance of Q1) was detected in only a single data replicate using SC1. False positive rates were similar for each criterion, whereas power decreased using selective sampling compared to ALL, although this was probably due to an insufficient initial sample size.
Chromosome Mapping↗
Characterization of the polyhedrin gene of Spodoptera litura nuclear polyhedrosis virus.
The polyhedrin gene (polh) of a characteristically distinct Spodoptera litura nuclear polyhedrosis virus isolate (SIMNPV) is identified in the HindIII-F fragment of the viral DNA. The nucleotide sequence of the 1057 base pair (bp) region of this fragment contains an open reading frame (ORF) without any intervening sequence for coding a polypeptide of 246 amino acids. Analysis of the nucleotide sequence and deduced amino acid sequence indicate that this has more than 70% sequence identity to known polyhedrins. The coding region is preceded by an AT rich region containing the conserved late promoter motif TAAG. The upstream promoter and coding regions of this polh gene are more similar to polh of the NPVs of Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf), Spodoptera exigua (Se) and Panolis flamea (Pf).
Amino Acid Sequence↗
Dexamethasone increases G alpha q-11 expression and hormone-stimulated phospholipase C activity in UMR-106-01 cells.
Glucocorticoids regulate responsiveness of many cells to hormones that bind to G protein-coupled receptors. We examined the effect of glucocorticoids on parathyroid hormone (PTH) activation of two G protein-activated signal transduction pathways, phospholipase C (PLC) and adenylyl cyclase, in osteosarcoma UMR-106-01 cells. Dexamethasone (100 nM) increased PTH-stimulated and NaF-stimulated PLC activity by > 100% over 4 days (223 +/- 8 and 293 +/- 8.2% of control after 4 days for PTH and NaF-stimulated activity, respectively). The increase in PTH-stimulated adenylyl cyclase response in the same cells was more modest (162 +/- 5.4 and 171 +/- 6.8% of control after 4 days for PTH and NaF-stimulated activity, respectively). PTH activation of PLC was blocked by antiserums to G alpha q-11 and activation of adenylyl cyclase by G alpha s antiserums. Quantification of these G protein subunits in control and dexamethasone-treated cells showed a 78% increase in G alpha q-11 (from 18.1 +/- 1.2 to 32.2 +/- 1.5 pmol/mg), whereas G alpha s was increased only 34% (from 6.2 +/- 0.5 to 8.2 +/- 0.3 pmol/mg) and G beta-subunits were increased 40% (from 54 +/- 2.3 to 75.2 +/- 3.8 pmol/mg). These results suggest that glucocorticoids are more potent regulators of PLC activity than adenylyl cyclase activity in UMR cells, and this is mediated, at least in part, by differential increases in G alpha q-11 proteins.
Adenylate Cyclase Toxin↗
Dietary and nutritional abnormalities in alcoholic liver disease: a comparison with chronic alcoholics without liver disease.
OBJECTIVE: To document the profile and role of malnutrition in alcoholic hepatitis, compared with chronic alcoholics and nonalcoholic chronic liver disease. METHODS: To this end, we studied 67 patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) (group I), 52 chronic alcoholics without histological evidence of liver disease (group II), 44 nonalcoholic cirrhotics (group III), and 52 healthy controls (group IV). Alcoholic and nonalcoholic calories were calculated and percentage dietary and nutritional deficiencies computed. Anthropometric indices, nitrogen balance, and immune status of the patients were assessed. RESULTS: Alcohol constituted about 48% of daily caloric intake in patients with ALD. The percentage mean intake of carbohydrate, protein, and energy was decreased in all three study groups compared with controls. The deficiencies were more pronounced in patients with severe than with moderate ALD. These deficiencies were more severe in the group III patients. Whereas body fat stores were maintained in groups I and II, reduction in lean body mass and serum transferrin was significant in patients in groups I and III. In group II patients compared to group I patients, the body mass index (19.9 +/- 4.0 vs. 22.3 +/- 3.4) and triceps skinfold thickness (6.1 +/- 4.8 vs. 10.2 +/- 5.6 mm) were significantly lower. CONCLUSIONS: 1) protein energy malnutrition is common in both alcoholic and nonalcoholic cirrhotics, but is more pronounced in the latter; 2) the degree and profile of malnutrition in chronic alcoholics and in alcoholic cirrhotics are comparable; 3) based on our results, we hypothesize that malnutrition may not play a primary role in the pathogenesis of ALD.
Adult↗
An evaluation of the application of the genetic algorithm to the problem of ordering genetic loci on human chromosomes using radiation hybrid data.
We consider the problem of ordering detectable genetic loci along a chromosome by minimizing the number of obligatory breaks that can be inferred from radiation hybrid data. The problem bears some resemblance to the travelling-salesman problem, for which genetic algorithms have been used with considerable success. We find that the results from other studies on closely related problems are not directly transferable, and although we did find a genetic algorithm that performed well in this application it would appear that this algorithm is highly sensitive to any changes in the problem. Moreover, a very simple stochastic algorithm performed almost as well as our much more complicated and computer-intensive genetic algorithm and it did so in a fraction of the time. While we do not dispute that genetic algorithms can work on large complicated problems, the various modifications and fine-tuning necessary for good performance tend to be highly problem specific and they are often only arrived at after an exhaustive exploration of possibilities. Thus, we would dispute any claim that genetic algorithms are robust in their form and range of applicability.
Algorithms↗
Randot stereoacuity at various binocular combinations of Snellen acuity.
Binocular combinations of Snellen acuity were varied from 6/60 to 6/6 in standard steps in twenty normal adults and Randot stereoacuity was measured at each level. Using the 560 unique stereoacuity scores thus obtained, a nomogram was constructed which provides expected stereoacuity scores at all unique binocular combinations of Snellen acuity. It was seen that there is a linear correlation between binocular isoacuity (at level 6/36 or better) and Randot stereoacuity.
Adolescent↗
Naturally processed T cell epitopes from human glutamic acid decarboxylase identified using mice transgenic for the type 1 diabetes-associated human MHC class II allele, DRB1*0401.
The identification of class II binding peptide epitopes from autoimmune disease-related antigens is an essential step in the development of antigen-specific immune modulation therapy. In the case of type 1 diabetes, T cell and B cell reactivity to the autoantigen glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) is associated with disease development in humans and in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. In this study, we identify two DRB1*0401-restricted T cell epitopes from human GAD65, 274-286, and 115-127. Both peptides are immunogenic in transgenic mice expressing functional DRB1*0401 MHC class II molecules but not in nontransgenic littermates. Processing of GAD65 by antigen presenting cells (APC) resulted in the formation of DRB1*0401 complexes loaded with either the 274-286 or 115-127 epitopes, suggesting that these naturally derived epitopes may be displayed on APC recruited into pancreatic islets. The presentation of these two T cell epitopes in the islets of DRB1*0401 individuals who are at risk for type 1 diabetes may allow for antigen-specific recruitment of regulatory cells to the islets following peptide immunization.
Alleles↗
Xenopus Mad proteins transduce distinct subsets of signals for the TGF beta superfamily.
Xenopus cDNAs homologous to the Drosophila Mad gene and C. elegans CEM genes have been cloned and functionally analyzed by microinjection into frog embryos. The results show that these genes (Xmad) encode intracellular proteins that act downstream of TGF beta superfamily ligands. Most interesting is the fact that different Xmad proteins produce distinct biological responses. Xmad1 produces ventral mesoderm, apparently transducing a signal for BMP2 and BMP4, whereas Xmad2 induces dorsal mesoderm like Vg1, activin, and nodal. These results suggest that an individual Xmad protein waits poised in the cytoplasm for instruction from a distinct subset of TGF beta ligands and then conveys specific information to the nucleus.
Animals↗
Soluble CD23 protein in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis.
Activated B cells are known to produce soluble CD23 protein (sCD23) from their membranes. We recently showed a higher concentration of sCD23 in the serum of patients with endometriosis. As the commonest site of endometriosis is the peritoneal cavity, we sought to evaluate the concentration of sCD23 in the peritoneal fluid of 47 fertile symptomatic women with endometriosis and 35 fertile women without endometriosis. Endometriosis was diagnosed by laparoscopy and confirmed by histopathology. There was a statistically significant difference between the sCD23 concentrations in the endometriosis and control groups (P < 0.05). When endometriosis was defined based on the revised American Fertility Society (AFS) Score, patients with mild (AFS 1 and II) but not severe (AFS III and IV) endometriosis showed a higher and significant difference in the concentration of sCD23 when compared with the controls (P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the peritoneal fluid concentration of sCD23 and the phase of the menstrual cycle. We conclude that the concentration of sCD23 is higher in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis when compared with the controls, suggestive of B cell activation in patients with endometriosis. Furthermore, mild endometriosis is immunologically more active than severe endometriosis as defined by the current classification.
Ascitic Fluid↗
Serum endometrial IgG antibodies and soluble CD23 concentrations in patients with endometriosis.
OBJECTIVE: Serum endometrial antibodies have been found inconsistently in patients with endometriosis. Soluble CD23 is elevated in diseases associated with B cell activation. We evaluated serum levels of soluble CD23 and endometrial IgG antibodies in patients with endometriosis to determine whether there is B cell activation in this condition. DESIGN: Fifty-seven patients with pelvic pain diagnosed as endometriosis and 40 patients without pelvic pain or endometriosis who had laparoscopic sterilisation were sequentially recruited into the study. Blood was collected and the sera assayed by ELISA for endometrial IgG antibodies and soluble CD23. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between endometriosis and control group in both the serum IgG endometrial antibodies (p < 0.05) and soluble CD23 (p < 0.05). There was significant but weak correlation between endometrial antibodies and soluble CD23 (r = 0.3, p = 0.039), particularly in mild but not severe endometriosis. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest the existence of B cell activation in patients with endometriosis with a significant correlation between endometrial antibodies and soluble CD23. Mild endometriosis appears to be immunologically more active than the severe form. The value of soluble CD23 in the management of endometriosis needs further evaluation.
Adult↗