Increase in the concentration of carbon 18 monounsaturated fatty acids in the liver with hepatitis C: analysis in transgenic mice and humans

Steatosis is one of the histologic characteristics of chronic hepatitis C and is well reproduced in a transgenic mouse model for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in which the core protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV) plays a pivotal role in inducing steatosis and HCC. In the present study, the lipid composition in the liver of the HCV core gene transgenic mice as well as in those of chronic hepatitis C patients was determined. The concentration of carbon 18 monounsaturated (C18:1) fatty acids, such as oleic and vaccenic acids, which are known to increase membrane fluidity leading to higher cell division rates, significantly increased in the livers of transgenic mice compared to nontransgenic control mice. The concentration of C18:1 fatty acids also significantly increased in the livers of chronic hepatitis C patients compared to subjects without HCV infection. These results suggest that HCV may affect a specific pathway in the lipid metabolism and cause steatosis in the liver.

[Adverse effects of beta-blocker eye drops on the ocular surface]

PURPOSE

We investigated the adverse effects of beta-blocker eye drops on tears and ocular surface epithelium.

METHODS

We studied twenty-three eyes of twenty three glaucoma patients [10 males, 13 females: 53.8 +/- 12.2 (yrs; mean +/- standard deviation)] treated with beta-blocker eye drops for more than three months and thirty two control subjects (16 males, 16 females: 50.4 +/- 10.9). The parameters described below were compared between the groups: 1. the radius of tear meniscus curvature, 2. grades for tear lipid layer interference patterns, 3. non-invasive breakup time (N-BUT), 4. cotton thread value, 5. scores of fluorescein staining, 6. fluorescein breakup time (F-BUT), 7. scores of rose bengal staining, 8. and Schirmer I value.

RESULTS

The glaucoma group showed a significant decrease in the radius of tear meniscus curvature (p = 0.0007), a significantly lower distribution in the grades for tear lipid layer interference patterns (p = 0.0270), a significant difference in the scores of fluorescein staining (p < 0.0001), a significant shortening in F-BUT (p = 0.0050), a significantly higher distribution in the scores of rose Bengal staining (p = 0.0010), and a significantly smaller value in Schirmer I value (p = 0.0042). However, there was no significant difference in N-BUT and cotton thread value.

CONCLUSIONS

These results clearly demonstrate that the ocular surface in glaucoma patients treated with beta-blocker eye drops show dry-eye-like changes in terms of tears and ocular surface epithelium.

Identification of a new multigene four-transmembrane family (MS4A) related to CD20, HTm4 and beta subunit of the high-affinity IgE receptor

We report here the cloning of eight new cDNAs that encode a family of proteins related to the B-cell-specific antigen CD20, a hematopoietic-cell-specific protein HTm4, and high affinity IgE receptor beta chain (FcvarepsilonRIbeta). They include four clones from human, and another four clones from mouse. They share similar structure (four transmembrane domains) with amino acid identities of 25-40%. Therefore, they represent distinct genes and comprise a gene superfamily. This superfamily is now named membrane-spanning four-domains, subfamily A (the approved symbol is MS4A) to distinguish them from tetraspanins with similar structure. The highest homologies among these proteins are found in the transmembrane domains, especially in the first and second transmembrane domains, and conserved residues are also recognized in the inter-transmembrane domains. In northern blot, they were mostly expressed in lymphoid tissues: thymus and spleen. However, some were expressed in nonlymphoid tissues including brain, heart, kidney, liver, testis, lung, GI tracts, and pancreas. They may represent proteins functioning either directly as ligand-gated ion channels or as essential components of such channels. The identification of this relatively large gene family in various tissues will allow the further elucidation of physiological significance of this gene family, that is currently unclear.

A calcium-activated cation current by an alternatively spliced form of Trp3 in the heart

To investigate a cDNA encoding cation current, we isolated an alternatively spliced form of a rat Trp3, designated Trp3sv. Trp3sv encodes 736 amino acids with a unique N terminus and six transmembrane segments. Expression of the cRNA in Xenopus oocytes was successfully performed. The cation selective current appeared after the addition of ionomycin or induced by prolonged depolarization but not by hyperpolarization. This induction was not observed by a treatment with thapsigargin, phorbol ester, or ATP. Na(+), K(+), tetraethylammonium, and divalent cations were permeable, while N-methylglucamine and chloride were nominally impermeable ions. The currents were not inhibited by flufenamate ruthenium red but nonspecifically by 2 mm Gd(3+). Northern as well as Western blot suggested lower levels of the expression observed in some organs, while reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction suggested that it widely spread among various organs. Therefore, we may conclude that N-terminal spliced valiant of Trp3, Trp3sv, encodes a calcium-activated cation channel in various organs.

Insulin increased cAMP phosphodiesterase activity antagonizing metabolic actions of glucagon in rat hepatocytes cultured with herbimycin A

The baseline activity of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 4 was markedly lowered by primary culture of rat hepatocytes with herbimycin A for 4 h [Eur. J. Biochem. 260 (1999) 398-408.]. We now report that insulin added to this preparation of hepatocytes, which had been completely freed of herbimycin, increased the thus lowered phosphodiesterase activity, consequently antagonizing glucagon-induced production of cAMP and activation of glycogen phosphorylase. The insulin receptor beta-subunits and alpha-tubulin were tyrosine-phosphorylated upon the addition of insulin. The phosphorylation of alpha-tubulin afforded conditions unfavorable for microtubule assembly that is responsible for phosphodiesterase inhibition. These effects of insulin observed in herbimycin-pretreated hepatocytes were not inhibited by wortmannin that actually abolished insulin-induced activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PtdIns 3-kinase) under the same conditions. The physiological significance of the insulin action not mediated by PtdIns 3-kinase in herbimycin-pretreated hepatocytes is discussed.

Diurnal fluctuation of sleep propensity and hormonal secretion across the menstrual cycle

BACKGROUND

The fact that most women experience sleep changes across the menstrual cycle is thought to be associated with changes in circadian rhythms; however, few studies have investigated this relationship.

METHODS

We applied an ultrashort sleep-wake schedule to eight healthy women and studied diurnal fluctuations in sleep propensity, sleepiness, rectal temperature, and serum concentrations of melatonin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and cortisol in the follicular and luteal phases.

RESULTS

In the luteal phase, amplitude of core body temperature, total melatonin secretions, and amplitudes of TSH and cortisol rhythms were significantly decreased, whereas sleepiness and occurrence of slow-wave sleep during the daytime were significantly increased. Differences in the amount of daytime slow-wave sleep across the menstrual cycle were positively correlated with differences in the daily mean rectal temperature.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that the amplitude of circadian oscillation may be dampened in the luteal phase. Increased daytime sleepiness in the luteal phase may be associated with increased daytime slow-wave sleep, due possibly to changes in thermoregulation in the luteal phase.

The acute and chronic stimulatory effects of endothelin-1 on glucose transport are mediated by distinct pathways in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

We have recently shown that pretreatment with endothelin-1 (ET-1) for 20 min stimulates GLUT4 translocation in a PI3-kinase-dependent manner in 3T3-L1 adipocytes (Imamura, T. et al., J Biol Chem 274:33691-33695). This study presents another pathway by which ET-1 potentiates glucose transport in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. ET-1 treatment (10 nM) leads to approximately 2.5-fold stimulation of 2-deoxyglucose (2-DOG) uptake within 20 min, reaching a maximal effect of approximately 4-fold at approximately 6 h, and recovering almost to basal levels after 24 h. Insulin treatment (3 ng/ml) results in an approximately 5-fold increase in 2-DOG uptake at 1 h, and recovering to basal levels after 24 h. The ETA receptor antagonist, BQ 610, inhibited ET-1 induced glucose uptake both at 20 min and 6 h, whereas the ETB receptor antagonist, BQ 788, was without effect. Interestingly, ET-1 stimulated 2-DOG uptake at 6 h, not at 20 min, was almost completely blocked by the protein-synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide and the RNA-synthesis inhibitor, actinomycin D, suggesting that the short-term (20 min) and long-term (6 h) effects of ET-1 involve distinct mechanisms. GLUT4 translocation assay showed that 20 min, but not 6 h, exposure to ET-1 led to GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane. In contrast, 6 h, but not 20 min, exposure to ET-1 increased expression of the GLUT1 protein, without affecting expression of GLUT4 protein. ET-1 induced 2-DOG uptake and GLUT1 expression at 6 h were completely inhibited by the MEK inhibitor, PD 98059, and partially inhibited by the PI3-kinase inhibitor, LY 294002, and the G alpha i inhibitor, pertussis toxin. The PLC inhibitor, U 73122, was without effect. These findings suggest that ET-1 induced GLUT1 protein expression is primarily mediated via MAPK, and partially via PI3K in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Microwave coagulation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

The efficacy and safety of microwave coagulation therapy (MCT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and impaired hepatic reserve were studied. Preoperative background factors, postoperative results, and prognostic factors were compared in 51 patients who underwent hepatic resection (HR group) and 38 patients who underwent microwave coagulation therapy (MCT group). Before surgery, measures of hepatic function, including level of albumin (P = 0.0072), prothrombin time (P<0.0001), hepaplastin test (P = 0.0088), and the radioactivity of technetium-99m galactosyl-human serum albumin 15 min in the liver after injection divided by that in both liver and heart (P <0.0001) were significantly lower in the MCT group than in the HR group. The indocyanine green dye retention rate at 15 min was significantly greater (P<0.0001) in the MCT group than in the HR group, and a significant difference was noted in Child-Pugh grade between the groups (P<0.0001). Operative time (P = 0.0014) and blood loss during surgery (P = 0.0005) were significantly lower in the MCT group than in the HR group. In contrast, no significant differences were recognized between the groups in the changes in postoperative liver function, or in the rates of morbidity, mortality, local recurrence, and survival. Moreover, the type of treatment (HR or MCT) was not a prognostic factor. The results indicate that MCT can be used safely as an alternative to hepatic resection in patients with poor liver function without reducing the efficacy of local control.

Establishment and characterization of a colonic epithelial cell line MCE301 from transgenic mice harboring temperature-sensitive simian virus 40 large T-antigen gene

We produced an immortalized colonic epithelial cell line, MCE301, using fetal mice transgenic for the temperature-sensitive simian virus 40 large T-antigen gene. MCE301 cells showed epithelial-like morphology and maintained tight connections with neighboring cells. The cells grew at a permissive temperature (33 degrees C), but the growth of the cells was significantly prevented at the nonpermissive temperature (39 degrees C). The cells expressed large T-antigen at 33 degrees C but not at 39 degrees C. MCE301 cells were not transformed, as judged by the absence of anchorage-independent growth in soft agar gel and lack of tumor formation in nude mice. Electron microscopic studies showed that the cells formed microvilli-like structures on the cell surface and junctional complexes such as tight junctions and desmosomes between the cells. The cells expressed cytosketal (acidic cytokeratins and actin), basement membrane (laminin and collagen type IV) and junctional complex proteins (ZO-1 and desmoplakin I + II), as judged by specific antibodies. Fetal bovine serum, epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor and insulin significantly increased the cell growth at 33 degrees C. Moreover, MCE301 cells expressed colonic mucin Muc2 mRNA as demonstrated by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, indicating that the cells originate from mucus-secreting cells. Alkaline phosphatase, a brush border-associated enzyme, was detected in the cells. Sodium butyrate (2 mM), an inducer of cellular differentiation, markedly elevated alkaline phosphatase activity. Thus, the present mouse colonic epithelial cell line MCE301 possessing these unique characteristics should provide a useful in vitro model of colonic epithelium.

Anodic oxidation and hydrothermal treatment of titanium results in a surface that causes increased attachment and altered cytoskeletal morphology of rat bone marrow stromal cells in vitro

Previous studies have suggested the usefulness of a new coating method-namely, the forming of a thin hydroxyapatite (HA) layer on commercially pure titanium (cpTi) by anodization and hydrothermal treatment-for use as a dental root implant material. In vivo and in vitro studies confirmed that an HA layer on cpTi (HA/cpTi) implants showed good compatibility with bone tissue, rat bone marrow stromal (RBM) cells, and immune cells. The aim of the present investigation was to further characterize the in vitro early cellular behavior of RBM cells on HA/cpTi implants. Therefore, in this study we performed surface analysis, analysis of cell initial attachment, and analysis of cell morphology and the cytoskeleton. Drops of distilled water or cell culture medium showed smaller contact angles with HA/cpTi than with cpTi. RBM cells were cultured for 30, 60, and 120 min on HA/cpTi and cpTi, and the level of cell adhesion was shown to increase with time on both substrates. However, cell adhesion on HA/cpTi was significantly higher than on cpTi at 60 and 120 min. Especially at 120 min, when compared with cpTi, the cell morphology on the surface of HA/cpTi not only adopted a flattened and spreading form, but also extended filopodium-like processes with irregular edges that were intimately adapted to the surface of the HA microcrystals. The cytoskeleton on HA/cpTi showed well-formed actin filaments that were parallel to each other and the long axis of RBM cells. The actin filaments of RBM cells on the HA/cpTi surface were localized to the periphery (corresponding to the edge of the filopodium-like processes) well after 120 min. This suggests that actin filaments of RBM cells need to be anchored at the HA/cpTi surface and the numerous HA microcrystals precipitated on the HA/cpTi surface. These findings were similar to the scanning electron microscopic morphology. The peripheral anchorage provide sufficient strength of attachment to allow recognization of actin filaments upon HA/cpTi. The surface of HA/cpTi was more hydrophilic and exhibited markedly improved wettability compared to untreated cpTi, and higher levels of early cell attachment were observed on surfaces after anodization and hydrothermal treatment than on surfaces with untreated cpTi. The results of in vitro experiments suggest that this new method for forming a thin HA layer on the surface of cpTi could be useful to ensure excellent cellular behavior on implant surfaces. The characterization of cell morphology on the thin HA layer formed by anodization and hydrothermal treatment on cpTi implant material suggests that physicochemical or biological conditioning of the implant surface involves implant surface topography.

Expansive laminoplasty by sagittal splitting of the spinous process for cervical myelopathy: correlation of clinical results with morphological changes in the cervical spine

Morphological changes in the cervical spine were evaluated using radiography in 140 patients with cervical myelopathy who underwent expansive laminoplasty by sagittal splitting of the spinous process. We assessed the influence of these observed changes on the postoperative clinical results. The mean follow-up period was 33 +/- 19 months. Intervertebral body union occurred in 18%, and interlaminal union in 80% of the patients. The factors influencing the bony union in these were not identified. Bony union did not significantly influence the clinical results. There were changes in cervical alignment in 29 (21%) patients after the operation. Correlation between the spinal curvature and the clinical results was the strongest for the sigmoid-type curvature. The number of patients in whom preoperative ROM was maintained was only 8 (7%). The range of cervical spine motion decreased by approximately 50%, and there was no correlation with the clinical results. The surgical method described in the current study for compression myelopathy was associated with postoperative morphological changes and decreased ROM in the cervical spine, but nonetheless provided good postoperative results unless extreme morphological abnormalities occurred. This surgical technique was safe and gave satisfactory results in patients with preoperative morphological abnormalities in the cervical spine.

Combined tachykinin receptor antagonist: synthesis and stereochemical structure-activity relationships of novel morpholine analogues

We report herein the synthesis and stereochemical structure-activity relationships of novel morpholine analogues 12 and 13 with regards to NK1, NK2 and NK3 tachykinin receptor binding affinity. An essential requirement for more potent binding affinities was controlled by absolute configuration. (S,R)-12 and (S,R)-13 exhibited high binding affinities for NK1, NK2 and NK3 receptors.

Electrophysiologic characteristics of the Ca-permeable channels, ECaC and CaT, in the kidney

To investigate the molecular mechanism of Ca transport in the kidney, we have isolated Ca-permeable channels, rECaC (rat ECaC) and mCaT (mouse CaT1), from rodent kidney, which are recently reported as Ca-transporting proteins. RT-PCR suggested the presence of CaT1 in medullary tubules. It showed 67% homology with rECaC constructing a family. Whole cellular currents in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were measured by patch clamp. Expression of both proteins exhibited a similar large cation current, a high permeability to Ca, a time-dependent rapid inactivation, and a "run-down." When the pipet contained EGTA, the inactivation and the run-down did not occur. Addition of db-cAMP activated and following rp-cAMPS recovered the mCaT-induced current significantly, whereas no influence was observed in the rECaC-induced one. We conclude that ECaC and CaT are a molecular family of ion channel with similar characteristics, contributing Ca transport in the kidney.

Cellular localization of aquaporin 7 in the rat kidney

The cDNA for the seventh mammalian aquaporin (AQP7) was isolated from rat testis, and its expression was demonstrated at the tail of late spermatids [Ishibashi et al: J Biol Chem 1997;272:20782-20786]. AQP7 is also expressed in the kidney. The localization of AQP7 in the kidney is unknown. We examined the cellular localization of AQP7 in the kidney with Northern blot, reverse transcribed PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry in the rat kidney. In Northern blot, AQP7 was expressed in the cortex and the outer medulla but absent in the inner medulla of the kidney. Reverse transcribed PCR of rat nephron segments revealed the selective expression of AQP7 at the proximal straight tubules (PST). Western blot of the membrane fraction of outer medulla revealed a single band of approximately 33 kDa. Immunohistochemistry of the rat kidney showed the selective expression of AQP7 at the brush border membranes of PST (S3 segment). AQP7 is now shown to be localized selectively at the brush border membranes of PST in the rat kidney. The result suggests that AQP7 may function as a pathway for transcellular water transport in PST in concert with more widely expressed AQP1 in proximal tubules. Alternatively, as AQP7 transports urea as well as water, AQP7 may function as a passive urea secretory pathway in this segment and may play a role in the formation and/or maintenance of the medullary urea concentration gradient.

[A case of aconitine poisoning saved with cardiopulmonary bypass]

"Torikabuto" is a kind of plant which contains deadly poison. Its ingredient is aconitine alkaloids. We report a case of aconitine poisoning with fatal arrhythmia and acute pulmonary edema who was saved with cardio pulmonary bypass. A 41-year-old male ate to mistake "Torikabuto" for wild plant. He developed symptoms of dysarthria and admitted to our hospital. He developed ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation soon after his admission. Then he developed cardiogenic shock. He was resuscitated and supported with a percutaneous cardio pulmonary bypass. Ventricular tachycardia disappeared 24 hours after admittion. About 1 week later, cardio pulmonary bypass was terminated and about 3 months later, he discharged from our hospital.

Reduction of heparin dose is not beneficial to platelet function

BACKGROUND

To clarify the effects of the reduction of heparin dose on platelets, we conducted a prospective trial on patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass.

METHODS

Twenty-three patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting were studied. The systemic heparin dose was 300 IU/kg in the control group (n = 11) and 200 IU/kg in the low-dose group (n = 12). Heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass equipment was used for both the groups. Platelet counts, beta-thromboglobulin (beta-TG) and platelet factor 4 (PF4) concentrations were measured and the arterial filters in the circuits were observed by electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Platelet counts were higher in the low-dose group than in the control group (p < 0.01). No significant differences were found in the platelet release reaction (beta-TG and PF4). Electron microscopy demonstrated that cell adhesion on the arterial filters in the control group was significantly more marked than in the low-dose group (p < 0.01) and that most of the cells on the filters were neutrophils.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the reduction of heparin dose with the use of heparin-coated equipment reduces platelet loss, but does not suppress the platelet release reaction. Furthermore, the reduction of heparin dose reduces adherence of leukocytes to the filter surface.

4-(3-Chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)aminophthalazines: synthesis and inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5

We synthesized various 4-(3-chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)aminophthalazines substituted at the 1- and 6-positions and evaluated their inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) and their vasorelaxant activity in isolated porcine coronary arteries precontracted with prostaglandin F2alpha (10(-5) M). The preferred substituents at the 1-position of the phthalazine were 4-hydroxypiperidino, 4-hydroxymethylpiperidino, 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperidino, and 4-oxopiperidino. Among these compounds, [4-(3-chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)amino-1-(4-hydroxy)piperidino]-6-phthala zinecarbonitrile monohydrochloride (13) exhibited potent PDE5 inhibitory activity (IC(50) = 0.56 nM) with >1700-fold high selectivity over other PDE isozymes (PDE1-4). Compound 13 exhibited the most potent vasorelaxant action (EC(50) = 13 nM) in this series of compounds. Compound 13 reduced mean pulmonary arterial pressure by 29.9 +/- 3.1% when administered intravenously at 30 microg/kg to the chronically hypoxic rats and had an apparent oral bioavailability of about 19.5% in rats and was selected for further biological evaluation.

[Evaluation of enrichment cultures for detection of Escherichia coli O157 from human stool specimens by using immunomagnetic separation]

We investigated the conditions of enrichment cultures preceding the immunomagnetic separation (IMS) procedure to detect Escherichia coli O157 (E. coli O157) from human stool specimens in routine laboratory examinations. Samples were made by adding either of the three selected strains of E. coli O157 to stools from three healthy human subjects in three different doses. The enrichment cultures were done for 18 hours at 37 degrees C or 42 degrees C, using five different media such as trypticase soy broth (TSB). TSB containing cefixime, tellurite and vancomycin, modified EC broth (mEC), mEC containing novobiocin (N-mEC) and BGLB. The IMS procedure following enrichment culture increased the detection rate of E. coli O157, irrespective of the kinds of the media and the temperatures. It recovered E. coli O157 in 42 samples out of 90, while only 31 samples were positive when the IMS was not applied. The N-mEC showed the best recovery rate of the five enrichment media, and it was the only media that recovered the E. coli O157 Gunmma 298 strains at a level of 2-3 cells per ml. In 73 stool samples collected from probable patients with E. coli O157 infection and subjects who made close contact with the patients, positive results were obtained in six samples with the N-mEC enrichment followed by the IMS procedure, while only three samples were positive by the direct isolation culture. It was concluded, therefore, that, in routine laboratory examinations of E. coli O157 from human stools, the N-mEC enrichment culture for 18 hours followed by the IMS procedure is a sensitive method even when the dose of E. coli O157 in the stool is minimal.

Direct observation of specific messenger RNA in a single living cell under a fluorescence microscope

We observed the expression of human c-fos mRNA in a living transfected Cos7 cell under a fluorescence microscope by detecting hybrid formed with two fluorescently labeled oligodeoxynucleotides (oligoDNAs) and c-fos mRNA in the cytoplasm. Two fluorescent oligoDNAs were prepared, each labeled with a fluorescence molecule different from the other. When two oligoDNAs hybridized to an adjacent sequence on the target mRNA, the distance between the two fluorophores became very close and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) occurred, resulting in changes in fluorescence spectra. To find sequences of high accessibility of c-fos RNA to oligoDNAs, several sites that included loop structures on the simulated secondary structure were selected. Each site was divided into two halves, and the pair of fluorescent oligoDNAs complementary to the sequence was synthesized. Each site was examined for the efficiency of hybridization to c-fos RNA by measuring changes in fluorescence spectra when c-fos RNA was added to the pair of oligoDNAs in solution. A 40 mer specific site was found, and the pair of oligoDNAs for the site were microinjected into Cos7 cells that expressed c-fos mRNA. To block oligoDNAs from accumulating in the nucleus, oligoDNA was bound to a macromolecule (streptavidin) to prevent passage of nuclear pores. Hybridization of the pair of oligoDNAs to c-fos mRNA in the cytoplasm was detected in fluorescence images indicating FRET.

[Comparative studies on activities of antimicrobial agents against causative organisms isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (1998). III. Secular changes in susceptibility]

Susceptibilities to various antimicrobial agents were examined for Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Echerichia coli, Klebsiella spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa that were isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) in 9 hospitals during June 1998 to May 1999, and the results were compared with those obtained during the same period from 1990 to 1997 in uncomplicated UTIs and complicated UTIs. Among E. faecalis strains, those with low susceptibilities to almost drugs have increased in the latest period. All 5 S. aureus strains isolated from uncomplicated UTIs were the most susceptible to gentamicin (GM). Over 50% of S. aureus strains isolated from complicated UTIs were susceptible to GM, and on the contrary the resistant strains have increased with the MIC90 of 256 micrograms/ml or above. Among S. aureus strains isolated from complicated UTIs, those with low susceptibilities to arbekacin (ABK) have increased in the latest period compared to those during period of 1996-1997, and the MIC90s of them have changed into the lower state from 1 microgram/ml in 1996-1997 to 4 micrograms/ml in 1998. S. aureus strains have continued high susceptibilities to vancomycin (VCM). The susceptibilities to minocycline (MINO) of E. coli showed MIC90: 4 micrograms/ml in 1997, but those have returned in the latest period in uncomplicated UTIs. The MIC90s of ofloxacin (OFLX) to E. coli isolated from uncomplicated and complicated UTIs have been lower 2-3 classes in the latest period than those in 1997. Among Klebsiella spp. strains isolated from uncomplicated UTIs, those with low susceptibilities to almost cephems had increased in 1997, but few of them were detected in the latest study. The sensitive strains of P. aeruginosa to almost drugs have increased during the latest period. The MIC50s of cefozopran (CZOP) and OFLX against P. aeruginosa were the best in our history. The sensitive strains of P. aeruginosa to ceftazidime (CAZ) have increased and its percentage was 30%. Piperacilline (PIPC), cefoperazone (CPZ), GM and OFLX resistant P. aeruginosa strains have increased in the latest period.

Effects of color temperature of fluorescent lamps on body temperature regulation in a moderately cold environment

A study on the effects of different color temperatures of fluorescent lamps on skin and rectal temperatures in a moderately cold environment involving (i) changes in skin temperature of 7 male subjects exposed to an ambient temperature ranging from 28 degrees C to 18 degrees C (experiment I) and (ii) changes in skin and rectal temperatures and metabolic heat production of 11 male subjects exposed to ambient temperature of 15 degrees C for 90 min (Experiment II) was conducted. In Experiment I, the reduction of mean skin temperature from the control value was significantly greater under 3000 K than under 5000 K or 7500 K lighting. In Experiment II, the reductions in mean skin temperature and rectal temperature were respectively greater and smaller under 3000 K than those under 5000 K or 7500 K lighting. However, metabolic heat production was not affected by color temperature conditions. The relationships between morphological and physiological parameters revealed that no significant relation of rectal temperature to body surface area per unit body weight was found only under 3000 K. Furthermore, while the mean skin temperature was independent on the mean skinfold thickness under 3000 K, a significant negative correlation between the rectal and mean skin temperatures was observed. Therefore, body heat loss might be suppressed effectively by increasing the vasoconstrictor tone under a color temperature of 3000 K, and the body shell was dependent only on morphological factors under 5000 K and 7500 K lighting.

Indocyanine green videoangiography in macular variant of idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

BACKGROUND

Fifty patients diagnosed with choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration were examined by indocyanine green videoangiography. Results were correlated with fundus photographs and fluorescein angiograms. Two patients were diagnosed with the macular variant of idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

CASES

Two middle-aged hypertensive women were diagnosed with macular idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. Throughout the follow-up period, both cases showed improved signs and symptoms without worsening of visual acuity, and despite the absence of definitive therapy.

OBSERVATIONS

Indocyanine green videoangiography demonstrated the characteristic polypoidal lesions in idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy better than fluorescein angiography, particularly when blood, exudates, or pigment epithelial detachments blocked visualization of the lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence of idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy may not be as low as reported, as its presentation mimics choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration. Differentiation can be made only through indocyanine green videoangiography. Conservative management may be beneficial, as visual prognosis is good.

Differential expression of neuroendocrine-specific protein in form-deprived chick eyes

PURPOSE

To identify genes that are highly expressed in form-deprived retina-retinal pigment epithelium-choroid tissues. Neuroendocrine-specific proteins were found to be highly expressed.

METHODS

mRNAs enriched in retina-retinal pigment epithelium-choroid tissues from 3-, 7-, and 14-day form-deprived chick eyes were isolated by differential display technique with cDNA library screening. Neuroendocrine-specific protein A and C were cloned in control and form-deprived eyes. mRNA and protein levels, with respective regional localizations, were examined by Northern blot, Western blot, and immunohistochemical analyses, respectively.

RESULTS

The isolated clone included an insert with a sequence homologous to both chick neuroendocrine-specific proteins A and C. The increases in mRNA and protein levels were confirmed by Northern and Western blot analyses, respectively. Immunohistochemical localization of neuroendocrine-specific proteins A and C was detected in the layer of photoreceptor inner segments, presumably in the cone cells. Northern blot analysis using negative lenses showed that levels of neuroendocrine-specific protein A and C mRNAs were not altered using negative lenses.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of both neuroendocrine-specific proteins A and C mRNAs in cone photoreceptor cells was upregulated within 14 days of form deprivation, but not in response to negative spectacle lenses. These data suggest that the increase in induction of neuroendocrine-specific proteins is not a secondary consequence of ocular elongation or myopic refraction. Induction of neuroendocrine-specific proteins in form-deprived eyes may be causally related to the development of myopia or may be an unrelated effect of form deprivation.

Molecular cloning of a novel form (two-repeat) protein related to voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels

Voltage-gated Ca and Na channels share similar structure: four homologous domains (I-IV), each with six transmembrane segments (S1-S6). They may be formed by two rounds of duplication of a single channel domain similar to voltage-activated potassium channels. However, the channels with the intermediate structure, namely, two-domain channels have not yet been identified. We report here the cloning of a novel protein from rat kidney that contains two domains (I-II), each with S1-S6 segments that are found in voltage-gated Ca and Na channels. Because of unusual structure, the protein was named two-pore channel 1 (TPC1). TPC1 encodes 819 amino acids with two conserved positively charged voltage sensor segments (S4) but the pore segments are not conserved. Northern blot analysis showed that TPC1 mRNA (5 kb) was expressed widely. It was expressed at relatively high level in kidney, liver, and lung. Immunohistochemistry of kidney revealed that TPC1 was expressed at inner medullary collecting ducts. In expression studies, no functional currents could be detected in CHO cells and Xenopus oocytes. Based on its primary structure, we propose that TPC1 might be a predecessor of the conventional four repeat voltage-gated Ca and Na channels and will give insights into the evolution of ion channels.

[Comparative studies on activities of antimicrobial agents against causative organisms isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (1998). I. Susceptibility distribution]

The frequencies of bacterial isolation and susceptibilities to antimicrobial agents were investigated on 538 bacterial strains isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) in 9 hospitals during the period of June 1998 to May 1999. Of the above bacterial isolates, Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 30.3% and Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 69.7%. Susceptibilities of several isolated bacteria to antimicrobial agents were as follows; against Enterococcus faecalis isolated from patients with UTIs, vancomycin (VCM), ampicillin (ABPC) and imipenem (IPM) had strong activities. Among E. faecalis strains, those with low susceptibilities to all drugs have increased in 1998, compared with those in 1997. VCM showed the highest activity against MRSA isolated from patients with UTIs. The MICs of VCM for all 34 strains were equal to or lower than 2 micrograms/ml. Arbekacin (ABK) was also active against MRSA with the MIC90s of 2 micrograms/ml. Against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, all drugs except penicillins were active. Particularly, meropenem (MEPM) showed the highest activity with the MICs of 0.125 micrograms/ml or below. Almost all the drugs except minocycline (MINO) showed high activities against Proteus mirabilis. Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, all drugs were not so active, with the MIC90s of 16 micrograms/ml or above. MEPM, IPM and gentamicin (GM) showed high activities against Serratia marcescens. Generally, it seemed that resistant strains of S. marcescens had decreased since 1996.

[Comparative studies on activities of antimicrobial agents against causative organisms isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (1998). II. Background of patients]

Clinical background was investigated on 449 patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) from whom 591 bacterial strains were isolated in 9 hospitals during the period from June, 1998 through May, 1999. About distribution of age and sex of patients and type of infections, among males, patients less than 50 years old were few, and uncomplicated UTIs without indwelling catheters was most frequent. Among females, patients less than 20 years old were few, and uncomplicated was most frequent. Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated in uncomplicated UTIs, and the higher the ages of patients, the higher were became the isolation frequencies of Enterococcus faecalis, Proteus spp. and Klebsiella spp. In complicated UTIs with indwelling catheters and without indwelling catheters, the types of pathogens had no relation with ages. The complication of infections had decreased E. coli but that had increased Proteus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Until last year, use of antibiotics had decreased pathogens isolated from patients with uncomplicated UTIs drastically in our study. But, pathogens isolated after antibiotics had increased in 1998. As for surgical procedures and types of causative organisms in UTIs, E. faecalis were more isolated when surgical procedures were experienced, and E. coli were more isolated when they were not in uncomplicated and complicated UTIs without indwelling catheters. In complicated UTIs with indwelling catheters, types of causative organisms had no relationship with surgical procedures.

Evaluation of portosystemic collaterals by SPECT imaging after endoscopic variceal sclerotherapy: usefulness for predicting recurrence

Bleeding from esophageal varices is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in cirrhotic patients. Identification of patients at high risk for bleeding is particularly important. The aim of this study was to determine whether detection of portosystemic collaterals by SPECT could predict the outcome of endoscopic injection sclerotherapy of esophageal varices and be useful for selecting appropriate therapy.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with liver cirrhosis who were considered at high risk of bleeding were treated with endoscopic injection sclerotherapy. Endoscopy was performed every 3 mo after therapy or until bleeding occurred. Before and within 2 wk after therapy, tomographic images of intra-abdominal blood pool were constructed by SPECT.

RESULTS

Before therapy, the following portosystemic collateral routes were observed: coronary veins in 53 (85.5%) of 62 patients, short gastric veins in 8 patients (12.9%), splenorenal shunts in 10 patients (16.1%), and paraumbilical veins in 6 patients (9.7%). Patients positive for imaging of coronary veins were divided into 3 groups on the basis of changes in images after therapy: complete responders (n = 17), whose coronary vein images disappeared completely; partial responders (n = 18), whose images became smaller; and nonresponders (n = 18), whose images did not change significantly before or after therapy. The rates of recurrence after endoscopic injection sclerotherapy until 6 mo in complete responders (4/17, 23.5%) and partial responders (7/18, 38.9%) were significantly less (P < 0.05) than that in nonresponders (11/13, 84.6%). The rate of recurrence of esophageal varices until 6 mo in nonresponders treated with additional submucosal injection sclerotherapy (1/5, 20.0%) was significantly less (P < 0.05) than that in nonresponders without additional submucosal injection sclerotherapy (11/13, 84.6%).

CONCLUSION

Abdominal blood-pool SPECT, a noninvasive method, is useful for evaluating the therapeutic effectiveness of endoscopic sclerotherapy, for predicting the recurrence of varices, and for selecting appropriate management after sclerotherapy.

eta Carinae: Testing a Binary Orbit Model with the Hubble Space Telescope/Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph

Ground-based spectroscopy of eta Car shows periodic changes in some emission-line wavelengths. These variations have been cited as strong evidence that this object is a 5.5 yr binary system and have been used to produce specific orbit models. High spatial resolution data obtained with the Hubble Space Telescope/Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph, however, do not confirm the predicted velocity behavior; therefore, the published orbit models are almost certainly invalid. Wavelength fluctuations seen at ground-based spatial resolution most likely result from other effects, which we describe. If this object is a binary system (which has not been proven), then the parameters of the secondary star and of the orbit remain largely unknown.

Genetic mapping of the rat mutation creeping and evaluation of its positional candidate gene reelin

We have previously described a rat autosomal recessive mutation, creeping (cre), causing severe ataxia and disarrangement of neuronal cells in the central nervous system. The mutant strain has recently been successfully inbred, named Komeda Zucker creeping (KZC) rat. In the present study, we have performed a genetic analysis of the creeping mutation, and mapped it to rat Chromosome (Chr) 4. Comparative mapping, together with the similarity of the phenotype, suggested that the creeping mutation is homologous to the mouse reeler mutation. In fact, reelin expression was markedly reduced in the homozygous mutant (cre/cre) animals compared with the normal littermates. Thus, the KZC rat should become a useful biological model with a novel mutation in the reelin gene.

Up-regulation of crystallin mRNAs in form-deprived chick eyes

Form-deprivation of chicks during early postnatal development results in ocular enlargement and great myopic refractive error (form-deprivation myopia). Previous studies have indicated that the retina, RPE and choroid play important roles in ocular enlargement in form-deprivation myopia. We aimed to isolate genes up-regulated in the retina-RPE-choroid of form-deprived chick eyes. A suppression subtractive hybridization method was used to compare mRNA expression in the retina-RPE-choroid of form-deprived and control eyes. One up-regulated cDNA was isolated and identified as part of chick delta1-crystallin cDNA. Northern blot and RT-PCR analyses demonstrated that delta1-crystallin mRNA was up-regulated in the retina-RPE at day 7 after form-deprivation treatment. Semi-quantitative RT-PCE analysis of the expression of several transcription factors indicated that Sox1 and Sox3 were upregulated in parallel with delta1-crystallin mRNA in form-deprived eyes. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that alphaA-, betaA3/A1-, betaB1-, and betaB2-crystallin mRNAs were also up-regulated in form-deprived eyes. Although the detailed mechanisms and functions of the crystallin family genes in the retina-RPE-choroid of form-deprived eyes remain unclear, results of our study suggests that form-deprivation affects the expression of these genes in chick eyes.

[Aortic valve papillary fibroelastoma in a patient with mitral valve regurgitation]

Papillary fibroelastoma is a rare cardiac tumour. We describe a patient with mitral valve regurgitation and aortic valve papillary fibroelastoma. The patient was 62-year-old woman. She was referred to us for surgical treatment of mitral valve. Preoperative echocardiography showed rheumatic mitral valve regurgitation (Sellers grade III) and it also demonstrated mobile masses of the aortic valve. At operation, mitral valve was repaired by a posterior annuloplasty. Through the aortotomy, small tumors were found to be attached to each cusps of the aortic valve and they were successfully removed. The histopathologic diagnosis was papillary fibroelastoma of the aortic valve. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Endothelin-1-induced GLUT4 translocation is mediated via Galpha(q/11) protein and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) can stimulate insulin-responsive glucose transporter (GLUT4) translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes (Wu-Wong, J. R., Berg, C. E., Wang, J., Chiou, W. J., and Fissel, B. (1999) J. Biol. Chem. 274, 8103-8110), and in the current study, we have evaluated the signaling pathway leading to this response. First, we inhibited endogenous Galpha(q/11) function by single-cell microinjection using anti-Galpha(q/11) antibody or RGS2 protein (a GTPase activating protein for Galpha(q)) followed by immunostaining to quantitate GLUT4 translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. ET-1-stimulated GLUT4 translocation was markedly decreased by 70 or 75% by microinjection of Galpha(q/11) antibody or RGS2 protein, respectively. Pretreatment of cells with the Galpha(i) inhibitor (pertussis toxin) or microinjection of a Gbetagamma inhibitor (glutathione S-transferase-beta-adrenergic receptor kinase (GST-BARK)) did not inhibit ET-1-induced GLUT4 translocation, indicating that Galpha(q/11 )mediates ET-1 signaling to GLUT4 translocation. Next, we found that ET-1-induced GLUT4 translocation was inhibited by the phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase inhibitors wortmannin or LY294002, but not by the phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122. ET-1 stimulated the PI 3-kinase activity of the p110alpha subunit (5.5-fold), and microinjection of anti-p110alpha or PKC-lambda antibodies inhibited ET-stimulated GLUT4 translocation. Finally, we found that Galpha(q/11) formed immunocomplexes with the type-A endothelin receptor and the 110alpha subunit of PI 3-kinase and that ET-1 stimulation enhances tyrosine phosphorylation of Galpha(q/11). These results indicate that: 1) ET-1 signaling to GLUT4 translocation is dependent upon Galpha(q/11) and PI 3-kinase; and 2) Galpha(q/11) can transmit signals from the ET(A) receptor to the p110alpha subunit of PI 3-kinase, as does insulin, subsequently leading to GLUT4 translocation.

Effects of mental task on heart rate variability during graded head-up tilt

In this study, we used spectral analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) to estimate the changes in autonomic control in response to disparate stimuli produced by mental task and graded head-up tilting. The low frequency (LF) component of HRV provided a quantitative index of the sympathetic and parasympathetic (vagal) activities controlling the heart rate (HR), while the high frequency (HF) component of HRV provided an index of the vagal tone. We studied 17 healthy male subjects (21-25 yr of age) who were placed on a tilt-table and the graded tilt-protocol involved tilted sine angles 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0. These tilt-protocols were repeated with or without the mental task, which consisted of auditory distinctive reaction-time tasks. The basal autonomic mode against the graded head-up tilt was characterized by reciprocal changes in sympathetic and vagal tones. There were significant increases of HR corresponding to the mental task with lower tilt-angle, albeit the changes with higher tilt angles were not significant. Furthermore, there were increases and decreases of the LF component induced by the mental task at lower and higher tilt-angles, respectively. These results revealed that the different responses of HR and LF component against the same tasks could be derived from the alterations of autonomic mode during gradual changes in autonomic control.

Analysis of heart rate variability during mental task with reference to ambient temperature

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cardiac autonomic control over mental task under various ambient temperatures (21 degrees C, 28 degrees C and 35 degrees C). Seven healthy male subjects engaged in the mental tasks, which consisted of distinctive reaction-time tasks. Respiratory coefficient of variation of instantaneous heart rate (CVRESP), derived from the cross-correlation function between heart rate and respiratory curve, was used as a parameter to assess parasympathetic nervous functions. The difference between total coefficient of variation (CVIHR) and CVRESP was used as a parameter to assess sympathetic nervous functions. The mean heart rate increased at high ambient temperature (35 degrees C) and also during mental task. Both the effects of ambient temperature and task conditions were significant on heart rate, and also on CVIHR. Moreover, the effects of ambient temperature and task conditions in CVIHR were divided into the effect of ambient temperature on CVRESP and the effect of task conditions on the difference between CVIHR and CVRESP. These results implied that respiratory modulated parasympathetic activity might control basal the effect of ambient temperature, and the other components including sympathetic activity contribute to the increase in heart rate due to mental task.

G alpha-q/11 protein plays a key role in insulin-induced glucose transport in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

We evaluated the role of the G alpha-q (Galphaq) subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins in the insulin signaling pathway leading to GLUT4 translocation. We inhibited endogenous Galphaq function by single cell microinjection of anti-Galphaq/11 antibody or RGS2 protein (a GAP protein for Galphaq), followed by immunostaining to assess GLUT4 translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Galphaq/11 antibody and RGS2 inhibited insulin-induced GLUT4 translocation by 60 or 75%, respectively, indicating that activated Galphaq is important for insulin-induced glucose transport. We then assessed the effect of overexpressing wild-type Galphaq (WT-Galphaq) or a constitutively active Galphaq mutant (Q209L-Galphaq) by using an adenovirus expression vector. In the basal state, Q209L-Galphaq expression stimulated 2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation to 70% of the maximal insulin effect. This effect of Q209L-Galphaq was inhibited by wortmannin, suggesting that it is phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) dependent. We further show that Q209L-Galphaq stimulates PI3-kinase activity in p110alpha and p110gamma immunoprecipitates by 3- and 8-fold, respectively, whereas insulin stimulates this activity mostly in p110alpha by 10-fold. Nevertheless, only microinjection of anti-p110alpha (and not p110gamma) antibody inhibited both insulin- and Q209L-Galphaq-induced GLUT4 translocation, suggesting that the metabolic effects induced by Q209L-Galphaq are dependent on the p110alpha subunit of PI3-kinase. In summary, (i) Galphaq appears to play a necessary role in insulin-stimulated glucose transport, (ii) Galphaq action in the insulin signaling pathway is upstream of and dependent upon PI3-kinase, and (iii) Galphaq can transmit signals from the insulin receptor to the p110alpha subunit of PI3-kinase, which leads to GLUT4 translocation.

Calcifications of the disc of the temporomandibular joint

Calcified lesions of the temporomandibular joint discs obtained from 135 human cadavers were studied. Calcifications were observed in 92 of 250 discs by soft x-ray radiography. Studies by light and electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction revealed that there were two different types of calcification in the discs: apatite crystal deposition with or without ossification, and calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate (CPPD) crystal deposition. Calcifications were recognized more frequently posteriorly than anteriorly, and were related to disc perforation. The results of this investigation suggest that disc degeneration, which may occur as a result of aging or mechanical stress, causes calcifications.

Identification of four new members of the rat prolactin/growth hormone gene family

The rodent prolactin (PRL)/growth hormone (GH) gene family currently consists of at least 14 distinct genes that are expressed mainly in pituitary, uterus, and/or placenta. We report here the identification of novel four members from rat with significant homology to PRL. The encoding proteins are not homologs of other known members of this hormone family. The four new cDNAs were assigned to PRL family based on sequence homology and were referred to as PRL-like protein-I (PLP-I), PLP-J, PLP-K, and PLP-L, following the current naming order of rodent PLP family, where PLP-H is the most recent gene. They encode amino acids with 211-228 amino acids, and 34-38% identity with PRL. All have one or two N-linked glycosylation sites. Among the examined rat tissues by Northern blot analysis, only PLP-I was expressed in testis. Our results indicate that the rodent PRL/GH gene family is large with at least 18 distinct genes.

Chondroma of the hyoid bone: a case report

Chondroma of the hyoid bone is extremely rare. We report the case of a 24-year-old woman with a chondroma of the greater cornu of the hyoid bone. In addition, we discuss the clinical and pathologic differential diagnoses.

Hippocampal neuronal death following deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in dogs: involvement of apoptosis

This study was undertaken to evaluate the histological nature of brain damage caused by deep hypothermic circulatory arrest during cardiopulmonary bypass. Total body cooling to 15 degrees C and rewarming were performed with a conventional cardiopulmonary bypass technique using the femoral artery and vein. Dogs were assigned to one of three groups. In group 1 (n = 4), cardiopulmonary bypass was maintained in a state of deep hypothermia (15 degrees C) for 90 min, group 2 animals (n = 5) underwent 60 min of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest at 15 degrees C, and group 3 (n = 6) underwent 90 min of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest at 15 degrees C. All dogs were killed by perfusion fixation 72 h after cardiopulmonary bypass. The CA1 regions of the hippocampi were examined by light and electron microscopy. Biotinylated dUTP was used for nick-end labeling of apoptotic cells mediated by terminal deoxytransferase. No morphological change was observed in group 1 dogs, and very little in group 2 dogs. More severe neuronal damage was observed in group 3. The nuclei of many cells were shrunken and showed nick-end labeling. Dense chromatin masses were detected electron microscopically in the nuclei of CA1 pyramidal cells. Neuronal cell death observed in CA1 pyramidal cells 72 h after 90 min of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest at 15 degrees C involves apoptosis. Therefore, according to this model, the maximum duration of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest should not be allowed to exceed 60 min.

Pressure pain threshold with and without iontophoretic anesthesia of the masseter muscle in asymptomatic males

AIMS

The pressure pain threshold (PPT) in the superficial masseter muscle was measured with and without cutaneous anesthesia to determine whether there would be a difference in PPT scores.

METHODS

In 14 healthy male subjects, cutaneous tissues in the target areas were anesthetized with lidocaine with the help of an iontophoretic device. As a control, physiologic saline solution was applied iontophoretically to the contralateral masseter site. The subject and the PPT examiner did not know which side contained anesthesia, and the selection of which side to anesthetize was done in a random fashion. Multiple PPT measurements were made in the target sites before and immediately after the iontophoretic anesthesia.

RESULTS

The PPT level on the lidocaine side was not statistically different from the PPT level recorded on the control side (339.0 +/- 87.6 kPa and 337.5 +/- 77.7 kPa, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Pressure pain sensation in the human masseter is not derived predominantly from the cutaneous tissues, but from the muscle itself.

Sensitive measurement of serum abnormal prothrombin (PIVKA-II) as a marker of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The usefulness of abnormal prothrombin (PIVKA-II) for diagnosis of small HCC has been limited by its low sensitivity, despite a high specificity.

METHODOLOGY

The serum concentration of PIVKA-II was determined by using a new sensitive enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kit in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver cirrhosis (LC), or chronic hepatitis (CH) and normal controls (NC). alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) was simultaneously determined in same patients.

RESULTS

This kit has made it possible to detect low concentrations of PIVKA-II in the NC. The serum PIVKA-II concentration (mean +/- SE) was 15.7 +/- 1.1 mAu/ml, 16.1 +/- 2.0 mAu/ml, 26.3 +/- 7.2 mAu/ml and 5420.3 +/- 3960.0 mAu/ml in NC, CH, LC and HCC, respectively. Among 106 patients with HCC, 74 patients (69.8%) were positive for PIVKA-II (> or = 40 mAu/ml), while only 9 patients out of 68 patients with LC were positive (13.2%) and only 2 out of 90 patients with CH were positive (2.2%). No significant correlation was observed between AFP and PIVKA-II levels. With combined assay of AFP and PIVKA-II, the positive rate for HCC was increased to 78.3%. Among 14 patients with HCC < 20 mm in diameter. 7 were positive for PIVKA-II, and 6 out of 10 patients with HCC between 20 and 30 mm in diameter were positive for PIVKA-II. There was a correlation between tumor size and the PIVKA-II level.

CONCLUSIONS

Determination of PIVKA-II by this new EIA kit could be useful for the diagnosis of HCC, especially combined with determination of AFP.

Insulin resistance and angiotensin converting enzyme polymorphism in Japanese hypertensive subjects

Renin-angiotensin system activity has been shown to affect insulin sensitivity. However, the relationship between I/D polymorphism and insulin resistance is controversial. Therefore, we examined the relationship between the ACE genotype and insulin sensitivity in 51 Japanese hypertensive patients using the glucose clamp technique. The ACE genotype distribution in the hypertensive subjects was: 7 subjects with DD, 20 subjects with ID, and 24 subjects with II. Insulin sensitivity in terms of the glucose disposal rate was not significantly different among the three ACE genotypes, although there was a tendency for insulin sensitivity to decrease in the order of II, ID and DD, DD being the lowest. These findings are contrary to previous reports that insulin sensitivity was increased in normotensive subjects with the DD genotype who were Caucasian or African-American. There might be a difference due to race and whether the subjects are hypertensive or obese. We concluded that insulin sensitivity was not different among the ACE genotypes in the Japanese hypertensive subjects, supporting a previous report on the Chinese population. To date, insulin sensitivity has not been found to differ with ACE genotypes in the oriental population.

Determining the telomerase activity of exfoliated cells in intestinal lavage solution to detect colorectal carcinoma

In order to make a definitive diagnosis of colorectal carcinoma, it is desirable to detect cancerous cells in stool samples. The detection of cancer gene products in stool samples, however, is said to be extremely difficult. The involvement of telomerase in the development of various malignancies has been reported. We therefore performed colonoscopy and thereby collected the intestinal lavage solution remaining in the lower portion of rectum to determine any possible signs of colorectal carcinoma. This fluid consisted of a combination of stool and exfoliated intestinal mucosa. We examined the telomerase activity of the intestinal lavage solution, collected from 19 colorectal carcinoma patients and from 11 volunteers (colonospically normal controls) based on the method of the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) assay. All patients drank a polyethylene glycol-electrolyte lavage solution (PEG-ELS) before the examination. Sample solutions were collected by the colonoscope at the beginning of colonoscopy. Telomerase activity was thus found in 11 (57.9%) of the 19 intestinal lavage solution samples. In contrast, all eleven samples from the colonoscopically normal subjects were negative. These findings thus suggest that measuring telomerase activity of exfoliated cells in intestinal lavage solution may thus be useful as a new diagnostic method for colorectal carcinoma.

The role of Bcl6 in mature cardiac myocytes

OBJECTIVE

The Bcl6 gene encodes a sequence-specific transcriptional repressor and is ubiquitously expressed in adult murine tissues including heart muscle. The objective of this study was to examine the role of Bcl6 in cardiac myocytes.

METHOD

We developed Bcl6-deficient (Bcl6-/-) mice and histologically examined hearts from these mice.

RESULTS

Massive myocarditis with eosinophilic infiltration occurred in Bcl6-/- mice after 4-6 weeks of age. Since expression of the Bcl6 gene was induced in normal cardiac myocytes after 2 weeks of age and thereafter detected through adulthood, loss of Bcl6 in mature cardiac myocytes may be related to the induction of eosinophilic myocarditis. To examine the effects of eosinophils from Bcl6-/- mice on normal hearts, bone marrow cells from Bcl6-/- mice were adoptively transferred into sublethally irradiated RAG1-deficient mice. Although massive eosinophilic infiltration was detected in conjunctivas and spleens from the chimeric mice, myocarditis was never observed. Electron microscopic analysis of cardiac myocytes from Bcl6-/- mice revealed a spectrum of degenerative changes prior to eosinophilic infiltration.

CONCLUSION

Bcl6 maynot be essential for the maturation of cardiac myocytes but may play a role in protecting mature cardiac myocytes from eosinophilic inflammation.