The effect of yoga exercise therapy on metabolic activity and oxidative stress indicators in non-insulin dependent diabets mellitus (NIDDM) patients [abstract]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effort of yoga traditional exercises on indicators of oxidative damage and on anti-oxidative enzyme system in patients with NIDDM. METHODS: Ninety-four NIDDM volunteers were divided randomly into two groups: traditional and yoga exercise (female to male 5:1, age 50 to 70 yeras, with 2-5 years of duration of diabetes and without clinical complications). Both groups twice weekly for six months with similar nutritional support. Blood samples were taken at the beginning, and six months following exercise treatments and the following were determined: glycaemia by glucose oxidase (automatic analyser), microalbuminuria by semiquantative methods, creatinine by kinetic method, malondialdehyde (MDA) by products of thiobarbituricacid, superoxide dismutase (SOD) by kinetic method - the inhibition of pyrogallol, phospholipase A2 by colorimetry, protein oxidation (POX) by the method of Reznicky and Pucker. RESULTS: There was a reduction of glycaemia in the yoga group after 6 months (8.84 vs 8.35 mmol/l), while there was an increase in the traditional group 8.74 vs 9.51 mmol/l). The concentration of creatinine and microalbumin decreased in both groups notably in the yoga group. (AU)

Comparative maps of human 19p13.3 and mouse chromosome 10 allow identification of sequences at evolutionary breakpoints.

A cosmid/bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) contiguous (contig) map of human chromosome (HSA) 19p13.3 has been constructed, and over 50 genes have been localized to the contig. Genes and anonymous ESTs from approximately 4000 kb of human 19p13.3 were placed on the central mouse chromosome 10 map by genetic mapping and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) analysis. A region of approximately 2500 kb of HSA 19p13.3 is collinear to mouse chromosome (MMU) 10. In contrast, the adjacent approximately 1200 kb are inverted. Two genes are located in a 50-kb region after the inversion on MMU 10, followed by a region of homology to mouse chromosome 17. The synteny breakpoint and one of the inversion breakpoints has been localized to sequenced regions in human <5 kb in size. Both breakpoints are rich in simple tandem repeats, including (TCTG)n, (CT)n, and (GTCTCT)n, suggesting that simple repeat sequences may be involved in chromosome breaks during evolution. The overall size of the region in mouse is smaller, although no large regions are missing. Comparing the physical maps to the genetic maps showed that in contrast to the higher-than-average rate of genetic recombination in gene-rich telomeric region on HSA 19p13.3, the average rate of recombination is lower than expected in the homologous mouse region. This might indicate that a hot spot of recombination may have been lost in mouse or gained in human during evolution, or that the position of sequences along the chromosome (telomeric compared to the middle of a chromosome) is important for recombination rates.

Epoxy resin allergy from microscopy immersion oil.

A bacteriology technical officer presented with episodes of burning pruritus and urticarial-like lesions on the face and forearms. Patch testing was strongly positive for epoxy resin. The exposure was occupational to the re-formulation of microscopy immersion oil.

Compositae dermatitis.

Compositae dermatitis is an allergic contact dermatitis. The most important allergens in the Compositae family are sesquiterpene lactones (SL), which are present in the oleoresin fraction of leaf, stem, flower and possibly pollen. Compositae dermatitis is most frequently seen in middle-aged and elderly people in patterns reflecting airborne or direct contact with the allergens. The pattern typically starts in summer and disappears in the autumn or winter. Repeated exposure over many years may lead to a chronic and, at times, a disseminated pattern. Seasonal variation does not occur in occupational Compositae dermatitis. In addition to the classically described airborne pattern of face, 'V' of neck, hands and forearms, hand dermatitis is now recognized to be an equally common presentation. This variability of clinical features, and the frequent occurrence of atopic dermatitis and contact allergy to one or more compounds, highlights the need for routine patch testing with sesquiterpene lactone mix 0.1% (Thermal, Hamburg, Germany), combined with aimed patch testing with Compositae plants and extracts. Avoidance of the plants and plant extracts of this large family can be difficult due to its widespread occurrence in flower, herb and vegetable gardens, urban and rural weed population and native vegetation. Importantly, Compositae plant extracts are present in many cosmetics, shampoos, herbal creams and ingested herbal remedies and tonics.

Complex beta-satellite repeat structures and the expansion of the zinc finger gene cluster in 19p12.

We investigated the organization, architecture, and evolution of the largest cluster ( approximately 4 Mb) of Krüppel-associated box zinc finger (KRAB-ZNF) genes located in cytogenetic band interval 19p12. A highly integrated physical map ( approximately 700 kb) of overlapping cosmid and BAC clones was developed between genetic STS markers D19S454 and D19S269. Using ZNF91 exon-specific probes to interrogate a detailed EcoRI restriction map of the region, ZNF genes were found to be distributed in a head-to-tail fashion throughout the region with an average density of one ZNF duplicon every 150-180 kb of genomic distance. Sequence analysis of 208,967 bp of this region indicated the presence of two putative ZNF genes: one consisting of a novel member of this gene family (ZNF208) expressed ubiquitously in all tissues examined and the other representing a nonprocessed pseudogene (ZNF209), located 450 kb proximal to ZNF208. Large blocks of ( approximately 25-kb) inverted beta-satellite repeats with a remarkably symmetrical higher order repeat structure were found to bracket the functional ZNF gene. Hybridization analysis using the beta-satellite repeat as a probe indicates that beta-satellite interspersion between ZNF gene cassettes is a general property for 1.5 Mb of the ZNF gene cluster in 19p12. Both molecular clock data as well as a retroposon-mapping molecular fossil approach indicate that this ZNF cluster arose early during primate evolution (approximately 50 million years ago). We propose an evolutionary model in which heteromorphic pericentromeric repeat structures such as the beta satellites have been coopted to accommodate rapid expansion of a large gene family over a short period of evolutionary time. [The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to GenBank under accession nos. AC003973 and AC004004.]

Concurrent infection due to Shewanella putrefaciens and Mycobacterium marinum acquired at the beach.

Infection with marine bacteria is uncommon. A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed concurrent infection with Shewanella putrefaciens and Mycobacterium marinum (M. marinum) is described. After bathing leg ulcers in sea water, severe cellulitis of the left leg with necrotic areas and extensive bullae developed. Infection due to S. putrefaciens was confirmed and a long course of hospitalization, oral ciprofloxacin and skin grafting was required. During hospitalization subcutaneous nodules developed on the other leg. Biopsy revealed acid-fast bacilli and culture grew M. marinum. These lesions responded to rifampicin and cotrimoxazole. Patients with leg ulcers, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, or receiving immunosuppressive drugs may acquire unusual infections after salt water exposure.

16-microm infrared generation by difference-frequency mixing in diffusion-bonded-stacked GaAs.

Tunable 90-ps 15.6-17.6-microm coherent radiation was generated by means of difference-frequency mixing in diffusion-bonded-stacked GaAs. The sample consisted of 24 alternately rotated layers with a total length of 6 mm and with low optical loss to achieve third-order quasi-phase matching. The wavelength-tuning curve was close to the theoretical prediction, demonstrating that the bonding process maintained nonlinear optical phase matching over the entire interaction length. Maximum conversion efficiency of 0.7%, or 5% internal quantum efficiency, was measured at 16.6 microm, consistent with the theoretical predictions.

Physical mapping of receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma (PTPRS) to human chromosome 19p13.3.

Receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma (PTPRS), a member of a subfamily of receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatases, has been mapped to human chromosome 19p13.3 using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. Hybridization analysis of chromosome 19 library cosmids has revealed several positive clones that are part of a contig located in the same region. The location of this contig was verified since one of the cosmid clones is anchored to a high-resolution FISH map of human chromosome 19p. In addition, the location of this gene relative to previously mapped proximal markers reveals a new point in the human-mouse synteny map by extending the mouse chromosome 17 synteny region in the telomeric direction.

The use of a modular skills center for the maintenance of laparoscopic skills.

BACKGROUND: A reliable method supplying graduated experience and practice is needed to develop and refine laparoscopic skills. The laparoscopic surgeon, like the microvascular surgeon, must have ongoing training to refine and maintain his or her skills. METHODS: The authors describe a new modular training unit. The unit consists of a box with a built-in television camera, a light source, and a rotating platform. A videotape recorder with a timing device documents the actual "operating time" required for the various exercises. The first phase of training consists of a basic skills board. This initial phase enhances the use of dominant and nondominant hand motor activity. RESULTS: The surgeon then progresses to lifelike models (biliary, suturing, hernia, gynecologic) to simulate the human operative setting. Ten surgeons spent 5 h each working with the module. The specific exercises were recorded and timed. Their progress is described. CONCLUSIONS: The modular laparoscopic skills center is an integral part of any laparoscopic educational program. It facilitates the acquisition and maintenance of laparoscopic skills.

An integrated metric physical map of human chromosome 19.

A metric physical map of human chromosome 19 has been generated. The foundation of the map is sets of overlapping cosmids (contigs) generated by automated fingerprinting spanning over 95% of the euchromatin, about 50 megabases (Mb). Distances between selected cosmid clones were estimated using fluorescence in situ hybridization in sperm pronuclei, providing both order and distance between contigs. An average inter-marker separation of 230 kb has been obtained across the non-centromeric portion of the chromosome. Various types of larger insert clones were used to span gaps between contigs. Currently, the map consists of 51 'islands' containing multiple clone types, whose size, order and relative distance are known. Over 450 genes, genetic markers, sequence tagged sites (STSs), anonymous cDNAs, and other markers have been localized. In addition, EcoRI restriction maps have been generated for > 41 Mb (approximately 83%) of the chromosome.

Characterization of a promoter for gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activated in rat liver in response to aflatoxin B1 and ethoxyquin.

gamma-Glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is normally absent from adult rat hepatocytes but is induced by a range of xenobiotics, including carcinogens and chemoprotective agents. As many as six mRNA species for this enzyme have been described in both rat and mouse, with various degrees of tissue specificity. These originate from one gene and have separate promoters within alternative 5' untranslated sequences. By using a cDNA-derived sequence specific for GGT mRNA III to screen a rat genomic library, a clone that contains the promoter region for this mRNA was isolated and characterized. The transcriptional start site lay some 3.5 kb upstream from that already characterized for mRNA II in rat kidney. Luciferase activity was obtained after transfection of rat hepatoma-derived cell lines with constructs containing the putative promoter III fused to a luc reporter. Although this promoter lacks a TATA box, a sequence close to the start site that binds the transcription factor TFIID in vitro was identified. By using PCR techniques, mRNA III (homologous to both mouse III and IV) and an mRNA (IV) with homology to VI in mouse were found in ethoxyquin- and aflatoxin B1-treated rat liver and kidney as well as in a hepatoma-derived cell line. No evidence was found for a product homologous to mRNA from promoter V described in the mouse.

The laparoscopic learning curve.

To characterize the learning curve for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, we compared the first 47 cases (group A), which were performed by two senior attending surgeons who assisted each other when the procedure was introduced into clinical practice (1990-1991), with the first 46 cases (group R) performed by two surgical chief residents who were assisted by members of the teaching faculty in 1992-1993. The patient groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, and anesthetic class, but pathologically proven acute cholecystitis was more common in group R (33% vs. 9%; p < 0.005). To analyze operative procedures and outcomes, we compared operative time, frequency of successful operative cholangiography (attempted in all cases), frequency of conversion to open cholecystectomy, major complication rate, and days of postoperative stay for all patients and for those without complications. Of these parameters, only operative time for nonacute cases differed significantly between the groups (144 min for group A vs. 114 min for group R; p < 0.05). Complications in group A included one ductal injury and one case of postoperative pancreatitis; group R had one ductal injury and two cases of postoperative bleeding. We conclude that (a) the learning curve has similar structure for senior surgeons and resident trainees; and (b) the resident learning curve is not hazardous when teaching assistants are trained in the procedure, which has implications for safe instruction and proctoring of residents and staff.

A 30-Mb metric fluorescence in situ hybridization map of human chromosome 19q.

A high-resolution metric physical map of chromosome 19q has been constructed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The map locates 136 cosmid reference points that span 30 Mb. The reference points are sequentially ordered from centromere to telomere, and the distance between neighboring cosmids is known from 240 partially overlapping, redundant estimates of genomic distances in kilobases separating pairs of cosmids. The average spacing between cosmid reference points is 220 kb, with over 75% of intervals less than 300 kb. Eighty-four genes and polymorphic markers have been assigned to mapped cosmids. The information on order and genomic distances separating pairs of cosmids, both key elements for building physical maps, has furthered the construction and integration of the genetic and physical maps of chromosome 19.

The use of models in laparoscopic education.

From earliest times, visual aids - from crude diagrams to complex, beautiful wax anatomical models - have been created to enhance the surgical learning process. Surgical educators realized early that suitable models could be used to develop the needed technical expertise essential to the safe performance of surgery. Practice on models also assisted in developing surgical judgment.

Human chromosome 19p: a fluorescence in situ hybridization map with genomic distance estimates for 79 intervals spanning 20 Mb.

A physical map of human chromosome 19p has been constructed by fluorescence in situ hybridization of cosmids to metaphase chromosomes and sperm pronuclear interphases. The map spans approximately 20 Mb and was generated with 141 multiple, partially overlapping estimates of genomic distances for 79 intervals separating 80 sequentially ordered cosmid reference points. The average distance separating pairs of cosmids was 250 kb, with a range from 50 to 700 kb; 75% of the intervals were estimated to be less than or equal to 300 kb and only 8 intervals were between 500 and 700 kb. Cosmids positive for 33 genes or gene families and 5 polymorphic markers were included among the mapped elements. The fluorescence in situ hybridization map will be useful for furthering the integration of the physical and genetic maps of 19p and for placing newly identified markers within a few hundred kb of their neighbors.

Chromosomal damage in sperm of patients surviving Hodgkin's disease following MOPP (nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone) therapy with and without radiotherapy.

Following fusion with hamster eggs, human sperm chromosomes from six Hodgkin's disease patients were analyzed to determine the genotoxic effects of therapy. Each patient had received two to six cycles of MOPP (nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone), with or without radiotherapy, from 3 to 20 years before the study. A total of 571 cells from the six patients were analyzed; 9.8% of the cells had structural aberrations, and 1.6% were hyperhaploid. Analysis of 5998 metaphases from a control group of 24 male donors revealed only 6.9% of cells with structural aberrations and 0.8% aneuploidy. The increase in hyperhaploidy in the patients was statistically significant. Thus, results of this study suggest that the MOPP regimen, with or without radiotherapy, is capable of causing chromosome abnormalities in the sperm of Hodgkin's disease patients.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Symptomatic biliary tract disease in the pregnant patient has always been problematical. The advent and widespread application of laparoscopic cholecystectomy has led to a re-evaluation of the role of surgery in this clinical situation. We report on the use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy on a patient in the first trimester of pregnancy.