[Proliferation of micromegakaryocytes in acute myelocytic leukemia associated with 5 q- as the sole karyotypic abnormality]

The authors report a de novo AML (M2) patient associated with 5q- as the sole karyotypic abnormality. A 76-year-old woman was referred to our hospital because of anemia and leukocytosis. On examination a neck lymph node was enlarged, but neither the liver nor the spleen could be palpated. The hemoglobin level was 7.1g/dl, the mean corpuscular volume 102fl and the white-cell count was 256.1 x 10(3)/microliters with 87% blast cells. The platelet count was 10.9 x 10(4)/microliters. The bone marrow was hypercellular with 79.8% blast cells and showed dysmegakaryocytopoietic features (hypolobulation, multiple separated nuclei and micromegakaryocytes). Blast cells gave a positive reaction for peroxidase and alpha NB esterase which was not blocked by NaF. The diagnosis of AML (M2) was made but she died before chemotherapy. Autopsy revealed general hemorrhagic tendency and leukemic cell infiltration. Chromosome analysis of the bone marrow showed 46,XX,del(5) (q13q31). Electron micrographs revealed increase of micromegakaryocytes as small as myelocytes and aggregation of demarcation membranes in some megakaryocytes. This may suggest that some molecular changes, instead of karyotypic evolution, contributed to a leukemic transition from the 5q- syndrome to AML with 5q- as the sole abnormality.

Comparative studies on the metabolism of new fluorinated pyrimidine drugs in the liver by in vivo 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopic observation

1-Ethoxymethyl-5-fluorouracil (EM-FU) is a fluorinated pyrimidine derived from 5-FU, and 3-cyano-2,6-dihydroxypyridine (CNDP) is a chemical modulator which suppresses the catabolism of 5-FU by inhibiting dihydrouracil dehydrogenase in the liver. In this study, the metabolism of EM-FU and the suppression of 5-FU catabolism by CNDP were observed by in vivo 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopy in comparison with other similar drugs, because it is considered that the most effective mode of therapy using 5-FU is to suppress the catabolism of 5-FU in the liver and so to maintain for longer an effective blood level of 5-FU. The metabolism of EM-FU was very slow and the production of fluoro-beta-alanine was very low as compared to the case of tegafur. The catabolic suppression by CNDP was much stronger than that of uracil. Therefore co-administration of EM-FU and CNDP should suppress catabolism and maintain an effective blood level of 5-FU for a long period of time.

High incidence of leukemic phase in follicular lymphoma in Akita, Japan: clinicopathologic, immunological and cytogenetic studies

A leukemic phase occurred in 7 of 11 (64%) Japanese patients with follicular lymphoma. The clinical and hematologic features at the onset of this phase were splenomegaly, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. The lymphoma cells expressed monoclonal surface immunoglobulins with moderate to strong intensity in all 7 of the patients diagnosed as leukemic. Various B-cell associated antigens were expressed as follows: CD19 (5/6), CD20 (7/7), and CD10 (6/7). The reactivity to these markers was comparable in the lymph node and blood samples. The expression of CD38 antigen was much lower in the lymphoma cells of the blood than in those of the lymph nodes. Cytogenetic studies of the lymph nodes of follicular lymphoma in leukemic phase revealed a common chromosomal aberration, of t(14;18)(q32;q21) and +18, in 2 patients successfully analyzed. Although the follicular lymphomas in the leukemic phase in these patients in Akita, Japan, were consistent with those in the West with respect to morphology, immunology and cytogenetics, the high incidence of leukemic manifestations may be a salient feature of Japanese cases.

Ph+ acute myelogenous leukemia with t(7;11)(p15;p15) and clonal evolution in relapse after bone marrow transplantation

A 20-year-old female with Ph+ acute myelogenous leukemia (M2) associated with t(7;11)(p15;p15) is reported. Bone marrow aspirates were hypercellular with leukemic cells including Auer rods. Chromosome analysis showed t(7;11) and the Ph chromosome. After complete remission, normal karyotype was restored. Normal male karyotypic cells replaced the bone marrow following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation from her brother. On day 358, cytogenetic study at relapse revealed 14q+ as an additional change and clearly showed that the abnormal clone was derived from the patient, because metaphases with XX were all of abnormal karyotype and those with XY were normal.

Cloning and sequencing of the cDNA encoding tyrosinase of the Japanese pond frog, Rana nigromaculata

We cloned and sequenced the cDNA encoding tyrosinase (TYN) of the Japanese pond frog, Rana nigromaculata. The 3511-bp cDNA contained a 54-bp 5'-noncoding region, a 1596-bp open reading frame encoding TYN of 532 amino acids (aa), and a 1861-bp 3'-noncoding region. The aa sequence of frog TYN predicted from the cDNA sequence was homologous to that of mouse and human TYNs. The aa sequence including the copper-binding domain, which is likely the active center of TYN, was highly conserved among these three species and Neurospora crassa, Streptomyces antibioticus, and S. glaucescens. The frog TYN also contains possible glycosylation sites and conserved Cys at sites similar to those in the mouse and human TYNs. There are two hydrophobic regions at the N-terminus and near the C-terminus, which are likely the signal (leader) peptide and a transmembrane domain, respectively.

Effects of adenosine on cardiac performance and phosphate compounds in microembolised guinea pig hearts

OBJECTIVE

The excessive release of adenosine has been reported to cause hyperaemia and to attenuate ischaemic injury in microembolised hearts. The direct effects of exogenous adenosine on cardiac performance were investigated in microembolised guinea pig hearts with the simultaneous measurement of phosphate compounds.

METHODS

21 male guinea pig hearts were perfused according to the Langendorff technique and microembolism was induced by injecting microspheres. Hearts were then treated as follows: group A, adenosine 20 microM and theophylline 60 microM; group B, theophylline 60 microM; group C, saline (control). Cardiac performance was monitored and phosphate compounds were measured by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Group A showed a significant increase in the left ventricular developed pressure and coronary flow, and a modest restoration of ATP content. Pi/(Pi+Pcr) remained virtually constant. There were no significant changes in left ventricular developed pressure or coronary flow in groups B and C. There was a gradual decrease in tissue ATP content and slight increase in Pi/(Pi+Pcr).

CONCLUSIONS

Adenosine improved cardiac performance without adverse effect on energy metabolism in microembolised hearts. Adenosine also restored the ATP stores in microembolised hearts. (Pi = inorganic phosphate; Pcr = phosphocreatine.)

Effects of anti-epileptic drugs on the L-tryptophan binding to human serum albumin

Effects of four anti-epileptic drugs (AED; phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine and sodium valproate) on the L-tryptophan binding to human serum albumin were studied. Among these drugs examined, only sodium valproate inhibited the binding even within the concentrations of its therapeutic range, and the Klotz plotting analysis revealed that the inhibition was competitive. The results of examinations with sera from epileptic patients medicated with these AED and drug-free normal controls also suggested that the protein binding ratios of L-tryptophan were decreased in the blood plasma of some patients with the high valproate concentrations and the low albumin contents.

In vivo 19F MR spectroscopic study of metabolism of 5-fluorotryptophan in rat liver

The metabolism of 5-fluorotryptophan in rat liver was examined by in vivo 19F MR spectroscopy. After i.v. injection of 200 mg/kg b.w. of 5-fluorotryptophan the substance was noted immediately as a strong peak, which decreased gradually. Another peak appeared about 40 min after the injection. The chemical shift value of this peak was 1.6 ppm from that of 5-fluorotryptophan. Kynurenine is known to be a major metabolite of tryptophan in the liver. We synthesized 5-fluorokynurenine from 5-fluorotryptophan by ozonolysis. The chemical shift value of 5-fluorokynurenine was confirmed to be coincident with that of the metabolite peak. This strongly suggests that the metabolite peak of 5-fluorotryptophan observed in this study was the 5-fluorokyrurenine signal. We also applied this method for the CCl4-injured liver. In the liver injury group, the metabolite peak appeared slowly and the intensity was low compared to that of the normal group, though the peak of 5-fluorotryptophan decreased similarly as in the normal liver. These results suggest that the decrease of 5-fluorotryptophan is due mainly to the renal excretion, as the injured liver could not metabolize 5-fluorotryptophan.

Assessment of liver graft function after cold preservation using 31P and 23Na magnetic resonance spectroscopy

We investigated the functional damages of the cytoplasm and the cell membrane of liver grafts in male Wister Kyoto rats after 24-hr and 48-hr cold preservations using the University of Wisconsin solution in vitro. Fructose (10 mM) or NH4Cl (50 mM) was added to the perfusate, and synthesis of fructose-1-phosphate (F-1-P) and Na- and H-ion transports through the cell membrane were evaluated by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), 31P-MRS and 23Na-MRS. After 30 min of reperfusion, beta-ATP/(inorganic phosphate: Pi) of the 48-hr preserved group was significantly lower than the control group and the 24-hr preserved group. The changes of F-1-P in the control group and the 24-hr preserved group were almost the same, but F-1-P synthesis was lower in the 48-hr preserved liver than those of the other groups. Intracellular pH began to drop after the cessation of NH4Cl loading, and then it recovered to the preloading level. At the same time Nain+ was increased in the control group. However, in the other two groups, the increasing rates of Nain+ were lower, and the recoveries of Nain+ were less. In conclusion, the function of cell membrane was more fragile than that of mitochondria and cytoplasmic sugar metabolism in the liver graft.

Metabolism of tegafur in rat liver observed by in vivo 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopy and chromatography

Metabolism of tegafur in the rat liver was observed by in-vivo 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). After MRS observation, tegafur and q-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the liver were determined by a chromatographic method for comparison with the results of 19F-MRS. Rats were divided into 3 groups: 1) CCl4-induced liver injury group, 2) uracil combined group, 3) control group. Catabolism to fluoro-beta-alanine was suppressed in both the liver injury group and the uracil combined group. Low peaks of 5-FU and fluoronucleotides could be found only in the uracil combined group. The result of 19F MRS observation of each group was in agreement with the result of determination of tegafur and 5-FU by chromatography. This showed that substances which could be observed by 19F-MRS were in proportion to all intracellular fluoro-containing substances. 19F-MRS can provide direct information on the metabolism of fluoropyimidines non-invasively and it might be a useful aid in choosing suitable chemotherapy for patients.

Chromosome alterations in human small cell lung cancer: frequent involvement of 5q

Deletions of the 3p chromosome region and molecular alterations of the tumor suppressor genes RB1 and TP53, located, respectively, at 13q14 and 17p13, are well-documented in small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Because of technical difficulties, karyotypes of primary SCLC specimens are rarely reported. In this study, detailed cytogenetic analysis was performed on 13 early passage SCLC cell lines and fresh specimens, including 4 lung primaries. Numerous chromosome alterations were found, even in newly diagnosed primary tumors. Consistent with previous molecular studies, chromosomal losses of 3p (13 cases) and 17p13 (12 cases) were frequently observed. Numerical losses of chromosome 13 and structural rearrangements affecting 13q14 were identified in 10 specimens. In addition, losses of chromosome 5 and structural alterations of 5q occurred in 12 tumors; among these, 9 displayed losses of region 5q13-q21. Double minutes were found in 4 cases (3 of 5 specimens from patients who received prior cytotoxic therapy but only 1 of 8 from untreated patients). DNA analysis revealed amplification of either MYC1 or MYCN in cells from each of these 4 tumors. Overall, the cytogenetic findings underscore that progression of SCLC involves multiple genetic changes and suggest further that a tumor suppressor gene(s) on 5q may contribute to SCLC tumorigenesis.

Comparison of acetate utilization among strains of an aceticlastic methanogen, Methanothrix soehngenii

The kinetics of acetate utilization by concentrated suspensions of cells was examined in five strains of Methanothrix soehngenii. The rate of acetate utilization by all strains was dependent on the initial acetate concentration and followed simple Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The ability to utilize acetate differed among the various strains of M. soehngenii and was highest in the strain designated MTAS.

[Assessment of liver graft function after cold preservation using 31P and 23Na NMR spectroscopy]

We investigated the functional damages of cytoplasm and cell membrane of liver grafts in male WKY rats after 24hr- or 48hr-cold preservation using a UW solution in vitro. 10mM fructose or 50mM NH4Cl was added to the perfusate, and synthesis of fructose-1-phosphate (F-1-P) and Na(+)- and H(+)-ion transports through the cell membrane were evaluated with 31P-MRS and 23Na-MRS. After 30 minutes of reperfusion, beta-ATP/(inorganic phosphate: Pi) of the 48hr-preserved liver was significantly lower than those of the other groups. In the control and the 24hr-preserved liver, the changes of F-1-P were almost the same, but F-1-P synthesis was lower in the 48hr-preserved liver than those of the other groups. Intracellular pH began to drop after cessation of NH4Cl loading, and then recovered to the previous level. At the same time Nain was increased in the control group. However, in the other two groups, the increasing rates of Nain were lower, and the recoveries of Nain were worse. In conclusion, the function of cell membrane was more fragile than that of mitochondria and cytoplasmic sugar metabolism in the liver graft.

Protective effect of carteolol, a beta-blocker, on myocardial cellular damage in ischemic and reperfused pig hearts: assessment with gated in vivo 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy and electron microscopy

To assess the effect of carteolol, a beta-blocker, on ischemia and reperfusion, changes in the ultrastructure of myocytes and energy metabolism were studied by 31P-NMR in 41 pig hearts without collateral circulation. The left anterior descending coronary artery was occluded for 20 min and reperfused for 120 min in three groups: seven pigs (group 1, no treatment with carteolol; group 2, pre-ischemia treatment with carteolol (10 micrograms/kg); group 3, post-ischemia treatment with carteolol before reperfusion). Other groups of five pigs were killed after 120 min of ischemia (group 4, no treatment; group 5, pre-ischemia treatment) or 20 min of ischemia (group 6, no treatment; group 7, pre-ischemia treatment). After 20 min of ischemia, ATP was higher in groups 2 (76 +/- 9% of the baseline value) than in group 1 (59 +/- 5%) and group 3 (60 +/- 10%). However, the difference disappeared after 30 min of ischemia. After 120 min of reperfusion, ATP showed much better recovery in group 2 (92 +/- 9%) than in groups 1 (66 +/- 7%) and 3 (68 +/- 10%). Ischemic injury, as viewed by light and electron microscopy, was milder in group 7 than in group 6 after 20 min occlusion, but the myocytes were almost normal after 120 min reperfusion in groups 1 to 3. The heart rate, blood pressure and rate pressure product showed no significant difference among the groups. These results indicate that pre-ischemia treatment with carteolol provided protection against ischemic cellular injury and accelerated the repletion of ATP during reperfusion, but the post-ischemia treatment did not lead to recovery of ATP. Therefore, the favorable effect during reperfusion of pre-ischemia treatment with carteolol depends on its protective effect during ischemia.

A new method for the evaluation of the liver injury by 19F MRS of 5-fluorouracil

An investigation was made of 5-fluorouracil metabolism in rat liver by 19F MRS. Fluoronucleotide synthesis increased markedly with liver injury and accelerated with uracil treatment, indicating that 19F MRS may serve as a new method for evaluating liver viability.

Ischemic preconditioning preserves creatine phosphate and intracellular pH

BACKGROUND

Ischemic preconditioning slows ATP depletion and ultrastructural damage during the final episode of ischemia. To define the influence of creatine phosphate (CP) and intracellular pH (pHi) on this effect, CP and pHi were serially measured in porcine hearts without collateral circulation by using 31P-NMR spectroscopy and ultrastructural examination.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Farm pigs weighing 12-15 kg were anesthetized with Fluothane. The control group underwent a single occlusion (20 minutes or 60 minutes); the preconditioned group underwent four episodes of 5-minute occlusion and 5-minute reperfusion followed by a sustained occlusion (20 minutes or 60 minutes). After ischemic preconditioning, CP increased to 115 +/- 11% (p less than 0.05) of preischemic value and ATP decreased to 84 +/- 8% (p less than 0.05) of preischemic value, but pHi returned to preischemic value. At 5 and 10 minutes of sustained ischemia, CP was significantly preserved in the preconditioned group (control group, 19 +/- 3% versus preconditioned group, 29 +/- 4% at 5 minutes; control group, 5 +/- 3% versus preconditioned group, 11 +/- 3% at 10 minutes; p less than 0.05). At 15 and 20 minutes of sustained ischemia, ATP was significantly preserved in the preconditioned group (control group, 64 +/- 3% versus preconditioned group, 73 +/- 3% at 15 minutes; control group, 51 +/- 7% versus preconditioned group, 62 +/- 2% at 20 minutes; p less than 0.05). At 10, 15, 20, and 25 minutes of sustained ischemia, pHi was significantly higher in the preconditioned group (control group, 6.5 +/- 0.05 versus preconditioned group, 6.7 +/- 0.1 at 10 minutes; control group, 6.3 +/- 0.05 versus preconditioned group, 6.6 +/- 0.06 at 15 minutes; control group, 6.1 +/- 0.1 versus preconditioned group, 6.4 +/- 0.1 at 20 minutes; control group, 6.0 +/- 0.2 versus preconditioned group, 6.3 +/- 0.1 at 25 minutes; p less than 0.05). Ultrastructural changes were milder in the preconditioned group at 20 minutes of sustained ischemia.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to ATP and ultrastructure, preconditioning preserved CP and pHi during sustained ischemia. These protective effects might be due to overshoot phenomenon of CP and/or reduced ATP consumption. The relatively longer period of preservation of pHi, which probably is the result of reduced ATP consumption, indicates its greater contribution to reducing infarct size than that of CP and ATP.

[Liver transplantation in children: initial experience of the Instituto da Criança of the Hospital das Clínicas of Universidade de São Paulo]

The initial experience at the Instituto da Criança do Hospital das Clínicas--School of Medicine of São Paulo University with liver transplantation in children is presented. A staff experienced in the management of children, including pediatric surgeons, hepatologists, critical care specialists, anesthesiologists, and other has been joined to draw therapeutic protocols. Afterward, more than 100 experimental liver transplant were performed in animals of medium size (dogs and pigs). From September, 1989 to July 1991, 12 liver transplants were performed on 9 children (3 retransplants) ranging in age from 2.5 to 17 years, being 5 boys and 4 girls. The donors had been selected according to the ABO blood group and body weight. Just once a blood A+ recipient received a liver from a blood O+ donor. The regular postoperative immunosuppression consisted of triple therapy with cyclosporin, prednisone and azathioprine. The postoperative stay in the Intensive Care Unit ranged from 3 to 24 days, according to the necessity of ventilatory support. These was no intraoperative mortality, arterial or venous thromboses, or early biliary complications. The overall survival is 78% (7/9). Primary non-function of the graft was the cause of death in two of our children. Although the number of cases is still small our results are comparable to those of the best liver transplant centers in the world.

Correlation of model chromosome number of cultured non-small cell lung carcinomas with DNA index of solid tumor tissue

The modal chromosome number of 13 non-small cell lung carcinomas placed into culture was compared to the DNA index of the tumor tissue as measured by flow cytometry in order to determine whether cytogenetic results from such cultures are representative of the original solid tumor. The modal chromosome number observed in culture, which ranged from 45-146, fell within the range of aneuploidy predicted from the DNA content of the original tissue in all 13 cases. In 7 cases, flow cytometry results showed that the aneuploid G1/G0 population of the tumor tissue (DNA index of 1.5 or higher) represented 11-76% of the cells present, while diploid cells (presumably normal tissue) made up the remainder of the population. In these 7 cases, modal chromosome numbers of 61-92 were found in tumor cells cultured from the tissue. In 3 cases, only a diploid or near-diploid population was found by flow cytometry, consistent with the near-diploid modal chromosome number of cultured cells observed (45-55). In 3 cases, the aneuploid G1/G0 population (DNA index of 1.5, 1.6, and 3.2) of the original tissue represented only a small fraction of the solid tumor (1-5% of cells). Modal chromosome number found in cells cultured from these 3 cases was 64-69, 62-68, and 136-146, which is in close agreement with the aneuploid peak observed in the tissue. Histological analysis of the tumor tissue in two of the latter cases showed large numbers of infiltrating lymphocytes and/or stromal tissue which could have dominated the measurement by flow cytometry. In the third case, tumor cells made up at least 75% of the specimen examined, implying that part of the population in the "diploid" peak contained tumor cells in this specimen. Only the aneuploid population was detected in culture of this tumor. Agreement between flow cytometry and cytogenetics was found in cases in which metaphase spreads were obtained within a few days of culture as well as after several months. These results indicate that highly aneuploid populations are found in many, but not all, non-small cell lung tumors. Although in some cases multiple populations may exist in the tumor which do not all proliferate in vitro, tumor cells which are found in culture of solid lung carcinomas are representative of the original tumor. Flow cytometry findings in the solid tumors confirmed the findings of aneuploidy observed by cytogenetic analysis.

The inhibitory effect of bevantolol on the accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids during ischaemia in the dog heart in situ

1. The left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was completely ligated for 90 min (i.e. myocardial ischaemia was produced) in the dog anaesthetized with pentobarbital. 2. Bevantolol, a beta 1-adrenoceptor antagonist, was injected (1 mg/kg, intravenously) 5 min before LAD occlusion. The bevantolol injection decreased heart rate without affecting blood pressure. 3. The myocardial samples were taken from the LAD area immediately after the end of LAD occlusion, and were subjected to analysis of the myocardial levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). 4. In dogs in which saline was injected, ischaemia produced accumulation of NEFA, especially arachidonic and palmitoleic acids, in the myocardium. 5. In dogs in which bevantolol was injected, the accumulation of NEFA induced by ischaemia was almost completely inhibited. 6. It is concluded that bevantolol inhibits ischaemia-induced accumulation of NEFA in the myocardium, and that stimulation of the beta 1-adrenoceptors is probably responsible for NEFA accumulation induced by ischaemia.

The endoscopic and surgical management of portal hypertension in children: analysis of 123 cases

Since 1973, 178 children with portal hypertension (PH) have been seen at Instituto da Criança of the University of São Paulo Medical School. Fifty-five of these children were excluded from this analysis for various reasons, including no treatment required, death before treatment, or incomplete data. From the remaining 123 children with esophageal varices, only 96 (76.1%) of them had at least one episode of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Eighty-eight children were submitted to injection sclerotherapy; 26 treated prophylactically, and 62 for treatment of previous bleeding. Eleven (42.3%) children from the prophylactic group bled from esophageal varices during the treatment. They were all successfully managed thereafter. Satisfactory results were achieved in 53 (85.4%) children in the therapeutic group. Twenty-eight (45.1%) children had at least one episode of bleeding after beginning of sclerotherapy, 19 of whom eventually had successful control of the variceal bleeding. From 1973 to 1984, distal splenorenal shunt (DSS) was the procedure of choice for the treatment of bleeding esophageal varices. Forty-two children have undergone DSS during this period. Only one child was shunted prophylactically. Since 1985, injection sclerotherapy has been the first choice for the treatment and only seven children with sclerotherapy failure have since been treated by DSS. Characteristically these children had very similar splenoportographic pattern with huge esophageal and gastric varices and deviation of portal vein blood flow toward the left gastric vein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Changes in the plethysmogram patterns of finger reactive hyperemia in nutritional (alcoholic) liver disease patients with increased serum monoamine oxidase activities

The activity levels of serum monoamine oxidase in nutritional (alcoholic) liver disease patients were elevated beyond the upper normal limit, while those of other subjects without pathologically accelerated fibrosis ranged within normal values. Capillaroscopic and plethysmographic studies on finger reactive hyperemia revealed that two characteristic changes in the blood microcirculation, which indicated an occurrence of increased fibritic process in the capillary wall and skin tissues, were observed only in the nutritional (alcoholic) liver disease patients with the elevated serum monoamine oxidase levels. These results suggested that nutritional (alcoholic) liver disease is not a disease restricted to liver tissues, but to a disorder creating pathological fibrosis in the whole-body.

[In-vivo 19F-MRS study of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) metabolism on tumors]

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) metabolism on tumors was studied by in-vivo 19F-MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy). In this study, two kinds of tumors were used, i.e., Yoshida sarcoma implanted subcutaneously to the abdomen of rats and drug-induced tumors in the rats livers. Sequential 19F spectra were obtained just after 150 mg/kg 5-FU injected intravenously. In Yoshida sarcoma, the accumulation of 5-FU was observed and disappearance of 5-FU was slower compared to the normal tissue. However, synthesis of fluoronucleotides (Fnct) could not be detected. In drug-induced liver tumors, the peak of fluoro-beta-alanine (FBAL) was observed. Disappearance of 5-FU and catabolism to FBAL in the liver tumors group were slower compared to the normal liver. Synthesis of Fnct did not increase in the liver tumor group. The results in the liver tumor group are considered to be the confined result of the hepatocytes and tumors cells. It was considered that the delayed catabolism to FBAL in the liver tumor group showed metabolic dysfunction of the liver. Also the synthesis of Fnct in tumors could not be detected by in-vivo 19F-MRS. 19F-MRS method could not detect Fnct in tumors in-vivo. However, the accumulation of 5-FU could be assessed by this method. It is expected that the evaluation of 5-FU pooling in tumors could be used for the index of chemotherapeutic effect.

Energy metabolism in kaolin-induced hydrocephalic rat brain. Assessed by phosphorus (31P) magnetic resonance spectroscopy and the diversity of lactate-dehydrogenase and its isoenzyme patterns

Energy metabolism in kaolin-induced hydrocephalic rat brain was assessed by means of 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy and measurement of the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as well as its isoenzyme patterns. Decreases in beta-adenosine triphosphate and phosphocreatine were observed in hydrocephalic rat brains. While the intracellular pH was decreased at 2 to 4 weeks, it showed some recovery 6 weeks after injection of kaolin. The activity of LDH increased in the hydrocephalic state, and its isoenzyme-pattern changes were as follows: the LDH5 fraction was predominant in 1-week to 4-week rats while the LDH4 fraction was predominant in 4-week rat brains, and at 6-weeks, the LDH4 and LDH5 fractions were decreased. These data from rat brains with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus indicate that anaerobic glycolysis is the primary pathway of energy metabolism in the acute hydrocephalic state, while in the chronic state the emphasis shifts to aerobic glycolysis.

Chromosome alterations in 21 non-small cell lung carcinomas

Cytogenetic analysis was performed on 16 primary tumors, 2 effusions, and 3 cell lines from 21 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In 20 patients specimens were obtained prior to initiating cytotoxic therapy. Extensive clonal chromosome alterations were found in all cases. The most frequent numerical changes were polysomy 7 and polysomy 20 (each seen in 12 specimens). In addition, tumor cells from another six cases exhibited partial trisomy 7, with the shortest region of overlap (SRO) at 7p11-p13. Rearrangements of chromosomes 1, 3, 6, 8, 11, 15, 17, and 19 were each observed in nine or more tumors. Breakpoints were clustered at several chromosomal sites, including 1p13, 3p13, 15p11-q11, 17p11, and 19q13. Recurrent loss involving 1p, 3p, 6q, 11p, 15p, 17p, and 19q were each seen in at least eight cases. The SRO of 3p losses was at band 3p21. Double minute chromosomes were found in three tumors. Overall, our findings indicate that even though karyotypes in newly diagnosed NSCLC are very complex, recurrent cytogenetic changes can be identified. The high incidence of loss of 17p (14 of 21 specimens) appears to be compatible with reports implicating the TP53 gene (at band 17p13) as a frequent site for genetic alteration in lung cancer. Moreover, the recurrence of loss of 3p (12 cases) and 11p (10 cases) is also consistent with recent molecular evidence. The existence of other "hot spots" for cytogenetic change, particularly those involving specific regions on chromosomes 7, 15, and 19, warrants further molecular investigation of these sites in NSCLC.

Isochromosome (8q) in four patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung

We report an isochromosome, i(8q), in combination with many other cytogenetic changes in tumor cells from four patients with lung cancer. In each case, the tumor subtype was adenocarcinoma. This isochromosome has not been identified in primary tumors from patients with other histological types of lung cancer. Among the few previously reported cytogenetic analyses of pulmonary adenocarcinomas, i(8q) has been observed in four additional patients. Therefore, i(8q) represents a recurring change in this specific type of lung cancer. In addition to i(8q), tumor cells from each of our four patients had different abnormalities of 17p, and two patients had alterations of 3p as well.

[Pure red cell aplasia induced by B19 parvovirus during allogeneic bone marrow transplantation]

We report a patient who had abrupt onset of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) induced by B19 parvovirus during allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). A 14-year-old girl with APL in complete remission was admitted in February 1988, for the purpose of BMT. She was received marrow from HLA identical sister on March 17, 1988 (day 0). She received 120 mg/kg cyclophosphamide and 12 Gy total body irradiation for conditioning of BMT. For graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis she was given cyclosporine and short term methotrexate. She did not develop acute GVHD after BMT, but on the day 28 a bone-marrow aspirate revealed findings of PRCA. During this course the number of white blood cell and platelet favorably recovered. B 19 parvovirus DNA was detected in the serum of the day 30 and day 42. Antihuman B 19 parvovirus (HPV) antibody titers were increased: the values of anti-HPV IgM were suddenly elevated and those of anti-HPV IgG were elevated. Serum on the day 42 inhibited erythroid progenitors (CFU-E, BFU-E) but not inhibited myeloid progenitors (CFU-C). A reticulocyte count recovered on the day 50. As the patient was HPV-IgG negative prior to BMT and the donor was HPV-IgG seronegative, the source of infection may be platelet transfusion (day 7 through 14).

[Index of tumor response by in-vivo 31P-MRS--T1 effect as a new predicting index of therapeutic effects]

We observed the metabolism of the Yoshida sarcoma by in-vivo 31P-MRS, using two varieties of repetition time (TR), i.e., TR2s and TR10s. It was measured before the injection of 5FU and 4, 24, 48 hours after the injection. In the each time, PME/ATP ratio, intracellular pH, and TR10/TR2 ratio of PME which reflects the T1 value of PME, were calculated. TR10/TR2 ratio of PME decreased 4 and 24 hours after the injection of 5FU and recovered 48 hours after the injection to the same level before the injection. However decrease of PME/ATP ratio was not observed until 48 hours after the injection of 5FU, when apparent tumor regression appeared. These results suggested that the T1 value of PME decreased prior to the PME changes and when the PME decreased, the intracellular environment of PME recovered to the same state before the therapy. It was considered that the TR10/TR2 ratio of PME offers significant information different from the PME/ATP ratio. It is possible to use the TR10/TR2 ratio as a predicting index for the therapeutic effects.

Protective effect of verapamil in ischemic porcine hearts: analysis of ultrastructural and metabolic changes using in vivo 31P-NMR spectroscopy

To assess the protective effect of verapamil on ischemic myocardium, the changes in high energy phosphates, inorganic phosphate, and intracellular pH were serially and quantitatively measured in ischemic porcine hearts without collateral circulation using 31P-NMR spectroscopy, together with ultrastructural examination. Twenty-six farm pigs weighing 11 to 14 kg were anesthetized with fluothane and were divided into control (C) group and verapamil pretreatment (V) group. In V group 0.2 mg/kg of verapamil was administered for 20 mins before occlusion of the anterior descending coronary artery. 31P-NMR spectra were serially obtained throughout the experiment, and ultrastructural examination was done at 20-min occlusion and at 120-minute occlusion in each group. At 10-min ischemia, creatine phosphate was significantly preserved in V group (C/V = 11 +/- 4%/16 +/- 5% P less than 0.05). At 20 min ischemia, ATP was significantly preserved (C/V = 60 +/- 9%/73 +/- 8% P less than 0.05), and intracellular pH was significantly higher in V group (C/V = 6.4 +/- 0.2/6.6 +/- 0.1 P less than 0.05). Morphologically, clumping of the nuclear chromatin, mitochondrial swelling and decrease in glycogen were milder in V group at 20 min ischemia. However, these beneficial effects disappeared at 120 min ischemia. Thus pretreatment with verapamil attenuated depletion of high energy phosphates, progression of acidosis, and ultrastructural changes. There was no significant difference of rate pressure product and regional blood flow between hearts with and without pretreatment of verapamil. Therefore, this protective effect may be due to the energy sparing effect or other direct subcellular effect of verapamil on ischemic myocyte.

31P-NMR studies on time-course of change in the blood-brain barrier after treatment with hypertonic solution

The time-course of change in permeability of the blood-brain barrier to ions after treatment with hypertonic solution was examined by studies on the intracellular pH of the brain by 31P-NMR spectroscopy. Results showed that during infusion of NaHCO3, the intracellular pH of the brain increased within 2.5 min after infusion of hypertonic mannitol and returned to the initial value within 25 min. A similar change in the intracellular pH of the brain was induced after a second infusion of hypertonic mannitol solution, indicating that this change was reversible.

Anti-plasmin inhibitor. VI. Structure of phlorofucofuroeckol A, a novel phlorotannin with both dibenzo-1,4-dioxin and dibenzofuran elements, from Ecklonia kurome Okamura

Phlorofucofuroeckol A (1), a novel phlorotannin with both dibenzo-1,4-dioxin and dibenzofuran elements, has been isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome OKAMURA as a potent anti-plasmin inhibitor. Its structure has been elucidated to be 1,11-di(3,5-dihydroxyphenoxy)- benzofuro[3,2-a]dibenzo[b,e][1,4]dioxin-2,4,8,10,14-pentaol on the basis of the spectral data, in particular, by means of negative nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE) and long-range carbon-proton couplings (2JCH and 3JCH). Phlorofucofuroeckol A inhibited the action of alpha 2-macroglobulin (IC50 = 1.0 micrograms/ml) and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor (IC50 = 0.3 micrograms/ml), the main plasmin inhibitors in plasma.

Serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in allogeneic bone marrow transplant recipients with acute leukemia

We determined the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) in allogeneic bone marrow transplant recipients in order to evaluate the relationship between TNF and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Eight patients with acute leukemia receiving an HLA-identical marrow graft were studied. Samples from healthy subjects and pretransplant recipients were all negative for TNF. Six of eight patients had detectable levels of TNF in serum after transplantation. All three patients with acute GVHD, and three of five patients without acute GVHD had elevated TNF levels in serum. Among the patients with increased TNF levels, documented infection was demonstrated in only one patient, with a clinical diagnosis of B19 parvovirus infection. Serum TNF levels were elevated when the WBC counts were more than 2,000/microliters. However, serum concentrations of TNF significantly correlated with body temperature. Although we could not conclude definitely that serum TNF levels correlated with severity of GVHD, it was suggested that TNF may be produced as a result of latent infections or immunological reaction against non-HLA allogeneic antigens.

The sennoside constituents of rhei rhizoma and sennae folium as inhibitors of serum monoamine oxidase

Four (in total) compounds with inhibitory effects on the activity of bovine serum monoamine oxidase were isolated from the methanol-water extracts of Rhei Rhizoma (Daiou) and Sennae Folium (Senna), and identified as sennosides A, B, E and F. Among them, sennosides A and B were obtained from both Rhei Rhizoma and Sennae Folium, while sennosides E and F were detected only in the former. The 50% inhibitory concentrations of the four sennosides were 17, 9, 24 and 13 microM, respectively, and the type of inhibition by seenosides A and B with respect to allylamine as the substrate was non-competitive.

[Application of superplastic titanium alloy for denture base--Part 1. Adaptability of the titanium alloy denture base]

The adaptability of the upper complete denture base made from superplastic alloy 90Ti-6A1-4V was investigated by measuring the space between the master model and the denture base. The denture bases showed a high adaptability with the space less than 0.1 mm, whereas after curing resin for denture, it became worse especially with the heat-curing resin. In addition, the thinnest area of the denture base was observed at the middle of the plate with 38% reduction in thickness, and distortion of the base plate of 0.55mm thickness by curing resin was found to be nearly the same as that of type 304 stainless steel plate of 0.50 mm thickness.

Change in glucose metabolism with time in hydrocephalic rats

Energy metabolism was studied by measurements of the activity and isozyme pattern of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in rats with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus at 1, 2, 4, and 6 weeks after the induction, as well as in normal, control rats. The total LDH activity in hydrocephalic rats was 1.5 times that in controls throughout the examination period. The main LDH isozyme in hydrocephalic rats was LDH 5(M4) at 2 weeks, but the isozyme pattern was the same as in controls at 4 and 6 weeks. These results suggest that the ratio of anaerobic to aerobic glycolysis increases in the acute stage of hydrocephalus and gradually lowers to become similar to that in controls with time.

Anti-plasmin inhibitor. V. Structures of novel dimeric eckols isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome OKAMURA

6,6'-Bieckol (1), 2-O-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-6,6'-bieckol (4), and 8,8'-bieckol (2), bispolyphenols with a dibenzo-1,4-dioxin skeleton, have been isolated as potent anti-plasmin inhibitors from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome OKAMURA. Their structures have been determined to be dimers of eckol linked at the C-6 or C-8 positions, through an aryl-aryl bond on the basis of spectral data. Their inhibitory actions on anti-plasmins (alpha 2-macroglobulin and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor) and some proteases have been examined.

Capillary-isotachophoretic determination of glutamine in cerebrospinal fluid of various neurological disorders

A rapid and microscale technique to detect and determine L-glutamine (Gln), which is the most abundant free amino acid in human cerebrospinal fluid (Sf), was established on the basis of capillary-isotachophoresis. This system was applied to the measurement of Sf Gln concentration in various neurological disorders. The results showed that Sf Gln was increased under some pathological conditions in the central nervous system, especially those accompanying pleocytosis in Sf.

[Recovery of marrow myeloid progenitors (CFU-GM) after bone marrow transplantation, especially associated with chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)]

Six patients underwent allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) for treatment of acute non-lymphocytic leukemia. Hemopoietic reconstitution after BMT was monitored by peripheral blood counts, counts of bone marrow cellularity, bone marrow pictures, and clonal assays for myeloid progenitors (CFU-GM). Although bone marrow samples were markedly hypocellular on day 7 posttransplant, myeloid and erythroid elements were seen in 5 of 6 patients. Peripheral blood recovery of these 5 patients was achieved by third weeks posttransplant. The values of (CFU-GM) per 1 X 10(5) marrow mononuclear cells reached normal values on day 7 in two patients and significantly increased by day 28 in a patient. After day 84 the values of (CFU-GM) were remained almost normal and they had no relation to the occurrence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). But in patients with chronic GVHD, marrow (CFU-GM) values were significantly increased on day 7 and day 14. These results suggest that marrow (CFU-GM) values by day 28 may predict the occurrence of chronic GVHD.

[Superplastic forming of titanium alloy denture base]

Ti-6Al-4V alloy has both excellent biocompatibility and superior mechanical properties. This Ti-6Al-4V can be deformed greatly and easily at the superplastic temperature of 800 degrees C to 900 degrees C. The superplastic forming of Ti-6Al-4V was made to apply to fabrication of denture base. Almost the same procedure as for dental casting mold was employed in producing the superplastic forming die by the improved phosphate bonded investment. In the pressure vessel of heat resistant alloy, Ti-6Al-4V plate was formed superplastically on the die by argon gas pressure at 850 degrees C. The fit of superplactic forming Ti-6Al-4V denture base was better than that of casting Co-Cr alloy denture bases. The Ti-6Al-4V alloy might react a little with the die. Because micro Vikers hardness of the cross-section did not go up too much near the surfaces. Even just after being formed, the surfaces were much smoother than that of Co-Cr alloy casting. The tensile strength and yield strength of superplastic forming Ti-6Al-4V were higher than those of Co-Cr castings. The elongation was about 10%. These results show that superplastic forming of Ti-6Al-4V would be suitable for a denture base.

Structure of an anti-plasmin inhibitor, eckol, isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome Okamura and inhibitory activities of its derivatives on plasma plasmin inhibitors

Eckol (1), a novel phlorotannin with a dibenzo-1,4-dioxin skeleton, has been isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome Okamura as a potent and specific anti-plasmin inhibitor. Its structure has been elucidated based on the spectral data, in particular, by means of negative nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE), and finally established as 1-(3,5-dihydroxyphenoxy)-2,4,7,9-tetrahydroxydibenzo-1,4-dio xin by X-ray analysis. Some partially methoxylated derivatives of eckol were prepared by methylation with diazomethane and also by selective dimethylation of eckol permethylate (1b) to establish the structural requirements for inhibitory activities on alpha 2-macroglobulin and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor, the main plasmin inhibitors in plasma.

[Intracerebral myeloblastoma developed in a patient with acute monocytic leukemia associated with inv (16) (p13q22)]

A 26 year-old man was diagnosed as having acute monocytic leukemia (M5b: FAB classification) associated with inv (16) (p13q22). Remission induction therapy showed good results, but two years later, he complained visual blurring and revealed right papilledema. Lumbar puncture showed leukemic cell infiltration. Irradiation to the orbita, intrathecal injection of MTX and Ara-C, until the cerebrospinal fluid cleared of leukemic cells, and chemotherapy were performed. One month later, he also complained visual blurring and left papilledema was found. After whole brain irradiation, intrathecal injection and chemotherapy, papilledema disappeared. Then, one year later, paralysis of right lower extremity appeared and brain computed tomography (CT) demonstrated tumor with increased density in the left frontal lobe, which enhanced with contrast material. Analysis of spinal fluid demonstrated abnormal cells. He was treated radiation therapy combined with intrathecal MTX and Ara-C. The patient survives currently three years after diagnosis and remains free of central nervous system disease. Because the patients with inv (16) have a high incidence of CNS involvement, they should be monitored closely with periodic lumber punctures.

Assessment of membrane protection by 31P-NMR effects of lidocaine on calcium-paradox in myocardium

In studying calcium paradox, perfused rat hearts were used to investigate the myocardial protective effects of lidocaine. Intracellular contents of phosphates were measured using the 31P-NMR method. In hearts reexposed to calcium, following 3 minute calcium-free perfusion, a rapid contracture occurred, followed by rapid and complete disappearance of intracellular phosphates with no resumption of cardiac function. In hearts where lidocaine was administered from the onset of the calcium-free perfusion until 2 minutes following the onset of reexposure to calcium, both intracellular phosphates and cardiac contractility were maintained. Therefore, it can be said that cell membranes were protected by lidocaine.

A measurement of cerebral glucose uptake rate by 31P MRS

A method for the measurement of cerebral glucose uptake rate by in vivo 31P Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is proposed. The initial rate of 2-deoxy-glucose (DG) uptake after DG administration is measured by the increase of 2-deoxy-glucose-6-phosphate (DG6P) signal at a chemical shift of 7.2 ppm with respect to phosphocreatine (PCr). The values for four different metabolic states of rat brain (two levels of epileptic seizures induced by bicuculline, nitrous oxide analgesia and pentobarbital anesthesia) were in good agreement with the previously reported ones by radioisotope methods. This method appears to be useful for measuring cerebral glucose uptake rate.

Observation of fatigue unrelated to gross energy reserve of skeletal muscle during tetanic contraction--an application of 31P-MRS

The mechanism of muscle fatigue was studied by 31P-MRS. During tetanic contraction for 2 minutes(min), the tension measured with a strain gauge and Phosphocreatine(PCr)/Inorganic phosphate(Pi)+ Phosphomonoester(PME) ratio decreased to 31.5 +/- 4.4% of the control value and 0.6 +/- 0.1, respectively. The intracellular pH(pH) also decreased to 6.62 +/- 0.04. Toward the end of the stimulation, the tension decreased to 25.3 +/- 1.9% of the control value. However, during 20min stimulation, the PCr/(Pi+PME) ratio increased to 2.5 +/- 0.5 and the pH to 6.91 +/- 0.04. These results show that muscular fatigue is ascribable not to a decreased level of high energy metabolites required for actomyosin ATPase, but to an increase in the threshold intensity of excitation in excitation-contraction coupling.

Propranolol inhibits accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids in the ischemic dog heart

The effects of propranolol and d-propranolol on the accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) induced by complete occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) for 90 min, were investigated in dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital. The myocardial levels of eight NEFA (lauric, myristic, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidonic acids) were determined after fluorescent labelling of the NEFA with 9-anthryldiazomethane. LAD occlusion increased the myocardial levels of NEFA, especially those of arachidonic and palmitoleic acids; arachidonic acid increased by 3.5 times and palmitoleic acid by 2.9 times. Pretreatment with propranolol (1 mg/kg) inhibited almost completely the accumulation of NEFA induced by occlusion of the LAD, whereas pretreatment with d-propranolol (1 mg/kg) did not inhibit the accumulation of NEFA, although it tended to inhibit the accumulation of palmitoleic, stearic and arachidonic acids. These results suggest that the inhibitory action of propranolol on the accumulation of NEFA in the myocardium during ischemia is mainly due to its antagonistic effect at beta-adrenoceptors and probably partly due to its effect as a local anesthetic.

Masked Ph chromosome due to a new type of translocation in a patient with chronic myelogenous leukemia

A chronic myelogenous leukemia patient with a masked Ph chromosome due to a new type of translocation, t(9;11;22)(q34;p11;q11), is reported.