Increased messenger RNA from protein synthesis inhibited human fibroblasts

Numerous reports have demonstrated that specific protein synthesis in response to specific inducers is markedly stimulated by a simultaneous brief exposure to protein synthesis inhibitors such as cycloheximide. This phenomenon is known as "superinduction" and is most often attributed to the accumulation of cytoplasmic messenger RNA during the inhibition period. Messenger RNA, as defined by rapid labeling, oligo (dt)-cellulose binding, and cell free protein synthesis stimulation was measured in cycloheximide treated human fibroblasts. In spite of a consistent 40% decrease in total polysomal 3H-uridine labeled RNA, a 1.5- to 2-fold increase in extractable mRNA was observed. These data provide direct evidence that protein synthesis inhibition stimulates the appearance of cytoplasmic mRNA and/or completely blocks its degradation and, are consistent with the hypothesis that mRNA accumulation partly underlies the superinduction phenomena.     

The early detection of colorectal cancer

A review of the American Cancer Society's statistics for colorectal cancer indicates that there has been little improvements in the survival rate for this disease in the past 25 years. Although there have been advances in surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, the key to improved survival rates is earlier diagnosis. A significant percentage of patients continues to present with regional or distal metastasis at the time of their initial diagnosis. Both proctosigmoidoscopy and guaiac impregnated filter slide paper methods have been productive in diagnosing this disease at an earlier stage. The "Hemoccult" test, however, is inexpensive, can be used on a routine basis, is easier for patients to perform themselves, and is aesthetically pleasing. It represents a significant cost savings compared to proctosigmoidoscopy and should be advocated for routine use in all patients over 40 years of age. Although there continues to be a role for local and regional mass screening programs, significant improvements in colorectal survival rates cannot be expected until routine application of this type of screening is practiced.     

Changes in the microbiological and shelf-life characteristics of beef tongues and livers following transcontinental and transoceanic shipment

The effects of transcontinental (interstate) transport and transoceanic shipment were determined on microbiological and shelf-life characteristics of beef tongues and livers. These variety meats were evaluated for both microbiological and shelf-life characteristics following slaughter in Guymon, Oklahoma, USA. The samples were then frozen and sent by refrigerated truck (4·5°C) to storage facilities in Jacksonville, Florida, USA. Further microbiological and shelf-life evaluations took place prior to overseas shipment at the University of Florida and following overseas shipment at The Institute CIVO-Technology, TNO, Zeist, The Netherlands. Aerobic plate counts (APCs) at 35°C for beef tongues showed a significant (P < 0·0.5) decrease following overseas shipment. Similar results were noted for beef livers. For both organs, the surface thawing in Florida, required for sampling, did not appear to affect the final bacterial counts. The 20°C APCs for beef tongues revealed a significant (P < 0·0.5) decrease following interstate transport but not transoceanic shipment. The 20°C APCs for beef livers did not differ significantly during the entire transportation period. The colour differences noted during transport of the product were probably the result of freezing and not of the actual shipping and storage conditions.     

Choroidal neovascular membrane in Best's vitelliform macular dystrophy

The right eye of a 9-year-old white boy with Best's vitelliform macular dystrophy had an intact egg-yolk lesion and a retinal pigment epithelial defect superiorly, suggesting an early pseudohypopyon stage. The disruptive phase of the left eye showed subretinal hemorrhages, a "signet ring," and a subretinal neovascular membrane.     

Alcohol's Effect on Triggered Displaced Aggression.

The authors examined alcohol's effect on triggered displaced aggression, the hostile reaction to a second provoking person after provocation from a first. Participants consumed an alcoholic or a nonalcoholic beverage. Subsequently, one individual provoked all of them with moderate intensity. Then, 2 groups were studied: those who received or who failed to receive a second provocation of minimal intensity. Consistent with prior research, participants who received a second, minimal provocation displayed more aggression than those who did not. After participants drank alcohol, the magnitude of this difference was significantly greater, indicating that alcohol increases triggered displaced aggression. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)