Analysis of effects and indications of cryosurgery for oral mucoceles

Cryosurgery is a recognized method for the treatment of mucoceles in the oral cavity. In this study, cryosurgery was used for mucoceles at the lip or buccal mucosa, and the effect and the indication were evaluated clinically. The subjects were patients with a clinical diagnosis of mucocele on the lip or buccal mucosa and who chose cryosurgery after procedures for both surgical excision and cryosurgery for the lesion were explained. Cryosurgery was performed with a freezing device using liquid nitrogen without local anesthesia. Twenty-four patients chose cryosurgery, including seven preschool children. There were no serious adverse events during and after cryosurgery. Healing progress after cryosurgery was not affected by patient age, lesion size, or how long the patients had the lesion. Two cases later underwent surgical excision because cryosurgery was not successful. Twenty-three patients chose surgical excision, one case had a recurrence. The number of younger patients who chose cryosurgery was significantly higher than that who chose surgical excision. This study suggests that cryosurgery is effective for mucoceles of the lip or buccal mucosa and is a simple and safe treatment method, especially for preschool children.

Endocytoscopy for in situ real-time histology of oral mucosal lesions

This study investigated the utility of endocytoscopy, a novel emerging endoscopic system, for in situ real-time histology of oral mucosal lesions. Endocytoscopy involves the use of a contact light microscopy system with 380-fold magnification. With the development of endoscopic instruments, it has become possible to observe the abnormal microvascular and capillary patterns of tumour cells. The resolution of the endoscopic image is improved in situ, and a more detailed diagnosis is possible. In this study, endocytoscopy along with other diagnostic modalities was used in nine patients. Normal mucous membranes and oral malignant lesions were observed. Endocytoscopy enabled the pathological diagnosis of oral malignancies in situ and the observation of both structural and cytological atypia. In the future, it is expected that pathological diagnoses will be made in situ by direct viewing of living cells. This technique has the potential to allow an 'optical biopsy'.

Alterations in 18F-FDG accumulation into neck-related muscles after neck dissection for patients with oral cancers

BACKGROUND

18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (18F-FDG) accumulations are commonly seen in the neck-related muscles of the surgical and non-surgical sides after surgery with neck dissection (ND) for oral cancers, which leads to radiologists having difficulty in diagnosing the lesions. To examine the alterations in 18F-FDG accumulation in neck-related muscles of patients after ND for oral cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

18F-FDG accumulations on positron emission tomography (PET)-computed tomography (CT) in neck-related muscles were retrospectively analyzed after surgical dissection of cervical lymph nodes in oral cancers.

RESULTS

According to the extent of ND of cervical lymph nodes, the rate of patients with 18F-FDG-PET-positive areas increased in the trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and posterior neck muscles of the surgical and/or non-surgical sides. In addition, SUVmax of 18F-FDG-PET-positive areas in the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles were increased according to the extent of the ND.

CONCLUSIONS

In evaluating 18F-FDG accumulations after ND for oral cancers, we should pay attention to the 18F-FDG distributions in neck-related muscles including the non-surgical side as false-positive findings.

Maxillary single-jaw surgery combining Le Fort I and modified horseshoe osteotomies for the correction of maxillary excess

A modified technique of horseshoe osteotomy combined with Le Fort I osteotomy for superior and posterior repositioning of the maxilla is presented. Eight patients with maxillary excess associated with retrogenia or microgenia were treated with this technique in combination with genioplasty. The maxillary segment was repositioned a maximum of 5.0mm posteriorly and 7.0mm superiorly at point A. The mandible autorotated anterosuperiorly to achieve sound occlusion. Point B moved 2.0-10.0mm anteriorly and 5.0-10.0mm superiorly. The pogonion moved 7.0-17.0mm anteriorly in combination with genioplasty. All patients obtained sound occlusion and a good profile after the operation. Almost no skeletal relapse was observed during 1 year of postoperative follow-up. Patients with long faces with maxillary excess and retrogenia often have small, unstable condyles. In these cases, because surgical intervention to the ramus can result in postoperative progressive condylar resorption, maxillary single-jaw surgery with a horseshoe osteotomy, thereby avoiding ramus intervention, is a less invasive option.

Variety and complexity of fluorine-18-labelled fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose accumulations in the oral cavity of patients with oral cancers

OBJECTIVES

To elucidate the points that require attention when interpreting fluorine-18-labelled fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose ((18)F-FDG)/positron emission tomography (PET) images by demonstration of (18)F-FDG accumulation in various areas of the oral cavity other than primary lesions in patients with oral cancers.

METHODS

(18)F-FDG accumulations with a maximal standardized uptake value of over 2.5 in various areas of the oral cavity other than primary lesions were identified in 82 patients with oral cancers.

RESULTS

(18)F-FDG/PET-positive areas, excluding primary tumours, included the front intrinsic muscles of the tongue (89.0%), upper and lower marginal parts of the orbicularis oris muscle (64.6%), sublingual glands, palatine tonsil, pharyngeal tonsil, and lingual tonsil. In addition, some areas in the jaws also showed accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with oral cancers, areas of (18)F-FDG accumulation in the oral cavity should be precisely identified and appropriately diagnosed, because accumulations can be seen in areas other than the primary tumour.

Sample preparation method for glass welding by ultrashort laser pulses yields higher seam strength

Glass welding by ultrashort laser pulses allows joining without the need of an absorber or a preheating and postheating process. However, cracks generated during the welding process substantially impair the joining strength of the welding seams. In this paper a sample preparation method is described that prevents the formation of cracks. The measured joining strength of samples prepared by this method is substantially higher than previously reported values.

Pharmacokinetic properties of a novel tissue-type plasminogen activator pamiteplase after single intravenous administration to rats, dogs, and monkeys

The pharmacokinetics of pamiteplase and recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) in rats, dogs, and monkeys were examined using a newly developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Plasma concentrations after intravenous administration of pamiteplase to rats declined in a triphasic manner. Plasma concentrations after intravenous administration of pamiteplase to dogs or monkeys declined in a biphasic manner. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve from zero to infinity (AUC(0-->infinity)) in rats and dogs increased with increasing dose. The half-life and mean residence time of pamiteplase in rats, dogs, and monkeys were shown to be longer than those of rt-PA. Total clearance (CL(total)) of pamiteplase was only 7-16% that of rt-PAs, suggesting that concentrations of pamiteplase in plasma were higher and more continuous than those of rt-PA in these experimental animals. The data suggest that a bolus administration of pamiteplase shows the same thrombolytic activity as continuous infusion of rt-PA in experimentally induced thrombosis in rats and dogs. The pharmacokinetic parameters distribution volume at the steady state and CL(total) calculated by immunoreactive concentration after administration of pamiteplase to rats, dogs, and monkeys show high correlation with body weights (r(2)=.7728 and .9039).

Lower urinary tract problems in patients with enuresis

OBJECTIVE(S)

Two hundred and thirty-eight children (170 males, and 68 females) with nocturnal enuresis were retrospectively studied for lower urinary tract problems. Surgical correction of subclinical organic obstruction in the lower urinary tract was evaluated for the improvement of bed-wetting.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty-five micturating cystourethrography (MCU), and 89 urodynamic studies were performed. Optic internal urethrotomy was done in a boy, and meatoplasty in a girl for urethral 'ring' stenosis (URS).

RESULTS

Nocturnal enuresis was found in 153 cases and nocturnal enuresis associated with daytime enuresis in 67 cases. Vesicoureteral reflux was found in 30, URS in 42, and posterior urethral valve in 3 cases on MCU. Detrusor instability was recognized in 39.4% of 38 cases of nocturnal enuresis associated with daytime enuresis and in 25.0% of 51 cases of nocturnal enuresis. Surgery brought 73.8% improvement of bed-wetting in 42 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical correction of subclinical obstruction in the lower urinary tract might contribute to the earlier resolution of bed-wetting in children with nocturnal and/or diurnal enuresis.

Determination, pharmacokinetics and protein binding of a novel tissue-type plasminogen activator, pamiteplase in human plasma

1. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and functional bioassay to determine immunoreactive and bioactive concentrations of pamiteplase, a novel thrombolytic agent, in human plasma were developed. The ELISA and functional bioassay showed satisfactory accuracy and precision within a concentration range of 0.5-25 ng.ml(-1) and of 0.127-16.2 ng.ml(-1) respectively. 2. The pharmacokinetics of pamiteplase in healthy human subjects were evaluated using the ELISA and functional bioassay. Irrespective of the method used, plasma concentrations declined bi-exponentially. Half-lives in the beta phase were 1.25 and 0.78 h, and AUCs were 507.9 and 286.4 ng.h.ml(-1) respectively. Total clearances of pamiteplase decreased to 19 and 31% of those of the wild-type tissue-type plasminogen activator. 3. The protein binding of pamiteplase in human plasma was investigated by gel filtration chromatography. Pamiteplase formed three high molecular weight complexes with alpha2-macroglobulin, C1-esterase inhibitor and alpha2-plasmin inhibitor in human plasma. This complex formation was relatively slow, and was thought to be irreversible and covalently bounded. Furthermore, this protein binding in humans resulted in the termination of biological action.

Adrenocortical insufficiency associated with long-term high-dose fosfestrol therapy for prostatic carcinoma

A 59-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of muscular pain, weakness, and anorexia. He had been treated with 600 mg/day of fosfestrol, a synthetic estrogen, for 10 years for prostatic carcinoma. Endocrinological studies demonstrated adrenocortical insufficiency due to inadequate ACTH secretion. After initiation of glucocorticoid replacement therapy, his symptoms subsided rapidly. To our knowledge, an association between estrogenic agents, including fosfestrol, and secondary adrenocortical insufficiency has not been previously reported. Physicians who treat patients with long-term and high-dose strong estrogenic agents should be cautious about the possible emergence of secondary adrenocortical insufficiency.

Atomic Force Microscopic Study of Commercially Available Implant Abutments

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies have reported a correlation between the surface roughness of implant abutments and the rate of supragingival and subgingival plaque formation. In order to maintain periimplant health, it is important to understand the relationship between abutment surface characteristics and plaque formation.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to use high image resolution imaging techniques for analysis of implant abutment surface topography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five commercially available implant abutments (Brånemark, Nobel Biocide, AB, Goteborg, Sweden, Astra, Astra Tech AB, Mondal, Sweden, IMZ, Friatec AG, Mannheim, Germany, Steri-Oss, Denar Corp, Anaheim, Calif, USA, and POI, Kyocera Corp, Kyoto, Japan) were visually and quantitatively characterized using an atomic force microscope.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis by analysis of variance and Fishers's Protected Least Significant Differences showed significant differences (p < .05) between arithmetic mean deviation values of surface relative to the center plane (Sa). Power spectral density analysis also was effective as a spacing parameter. Sectional profiles measured the exact length, depth, or height of the specific features on the images.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of this study, the Brånemark, Astra and IMZ abutments displayed turning marks in x direction from the procedure. The Steri-Oss abutment showed smoothest surface among the five abutments tested.

[Fetal megacystis with idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome: a case report]

A 2,510 g female newborn was delivered by Cesarean section at 33 weeks gestation due to increasing volume of her huge bladder and bilateral hydronephrosis. Just after birth 190 ml of urine was drainaged by catheterization without difficulty. Voiding cystourethrography showed no VUR. She had no ureteral dilation, either. Urodynamic study revealed large bladder capacity and detrusor hypocontractility. Neither neurological nor gastrointestinal abnormality was detected neonatally. Clean intermitted catheterization was performed every 4 hours. At 12 months of her age she had no history of urinary tract infection. However, as she grew up with normal diet, severe constipation became apparent. This is a case of idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome whose gastrointestinal symptom was masked in the newborn period. Attention should be paid for gastrointestinal tract as well as urinary tract when the body has congenital megacystis with unknown etiology.

Elevated serum levels of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in NIDDM patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy

We studied 68 Japanese NIDDM patients (38 men and 30 women), aged 56.9+/-1.2 years (range 33-75 years), with a BMI of 23.1+/-0.5 kg/m2 without hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetic macroangiopathy for evaluating the relationship between serum soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) levels and the severity of diabetic retinopathy. Fundus examination was performed by an ophthalmologist using an ophthalmoscope, and the findings were graded as: (1) no signs of diabetic retinopathy (NDR), (2) background diabetic retinopathy (BDR), or (3) proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Serum sVCAM-1 levels were measured in duplicate by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using the soluble VCAM-1 KIT (R&D Systems Ltd., Ablingdon, Oxfordshire, UK). There was no difference in serum sVCAM-1 levels between patients with BDR (n = 17) and patients with NDR (n = 40) (1035.3+/-104.4 and 978.8+/-48.9 ng/ml, respectively, P = 0.8), but patients with PDR (n = 11) showed a significant increase of serum sVCAM-1 levels compared with patients with NDR (1281.8+/-166.3 and 978.8+/-48.9 ng/ml, respectively, P = 0.02). Although serum sVCAM-1 levels were correlated, not only with age but also with the known diabetic duration (r = 0.39, P = 0.001, and r = 0.40, P = 0.0007, respectively), age-adjusted sVCAM-1 levels were still significantly higher in the PDR group than in the NDR group. In contrast. serum sVCAM-1 levels were not related to the presence of diabetic nephropathy or HbA1c levels. Our results suggest that sVCAM-1 might be implicated in the development of the diabetic retinopathy, and measurement of serum sVCAM-1 levels in NIDDM patients maybe clinically useful for assessing the severity and possibly the activity of diabetic retinopathy.

Pharmacological and pharmacokinetic characteristics of YM435, a novel dopamine DA1-receptor agonist, in anaesthetized dogs

Time-course of plasma concentration of unchanged drug of the dopamine DA1-receptor agonist (-)-(S)-4-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-7,8-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4- tetrahydroisoquinoline hydrochloride hydrate (YM435), and its effects on blood pressure and renal blood flow were investigated in anaesthetized dogs. Continuous intravenous infusion of YM435 (0.1-3 micrograms kg-1 min-1) rapidly increased renal blood flow and lowered blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner. These effects remained generally stable throughout the infusion period. Following the start of infusion, plasma concentration of unchanged drug also rose rapidly and dose-dependently and remained virtually constant throughout the infusion period. A significant correlation was observed between log YM435 plasma concentration and the increase in renal blood flow (r = 0.93, P < 0.0001) and between the former and the reduction in blood pressure (r = 0.93, P < 0.0001). The present results indicate that YM435 produces renal vasodilatation and lowering of blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner and with rapid onset following continuous intravenous infusion, and that these effects are generally stable throughout the period of infusion. These haemodynamic effects of YM435 were in good agreement with the time-course of plasma concentration of unchanged drug.

[Peculiar cemental lesion of the jaws--its pathological entity and natural history]

Two hundred fifty-five solitary and 42 multiple cases of fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws, and 74 cases of sclerosing osteomyelitis were studied clinico-pathologically, in order to discuss the entity of peculiar cemental lesion with sequester-like appearance, which occurs mainly in the mandibular molar area of over middle-aged females. Four allied lesions, including the sequester-like cemental lesion, were revealed. They were provisionally designated sequestrated cemental masses, cemental masses, focal cemento-osseous dysplasia, and periapical cemental masses respectively, because no entities that were consistent with them could be found in the classifications of World Health Organization (WHO). The above- mentioned peculiar cemental lesion was equivalent to sequestrated cemental masses, which consist of sclerotic cementum and/or osteocementum with inflammation. Cemental masses and periapical cemental masses were related to sequestrated cemental masses. Focal cemento- osseous dysplasia was considered to be a counterpart of lesion which had been recently reported by Summerlin et al. In consideration of similarity and continuity of the histological and clinical findings, the four allied lesions were thought to be arranged in a continuous spectrum of fibro-cemento-osseous dysplasia of the jaws, along with periapical cemental dysplasia and florid cemento-osseous dysplasia that are mentioned in the WHO classification.

The XPA protein is a zinc metalloprotein with an ability to recognize various kinds of DNA damage

The XPA (xeroderma pigmentosum group A) gene encodes a protein of 273 amino acids with a zinc finger motif. The human XPA cDNA was placed in an Escherichia coli expression vector for the synthesis of the recombinant XPA protein. The molecular weight of the wild-type protein was about 40 kDa in SDS-PAGE. Microinjection of the wild-type protein specifically restored the defect of UV-induced unscheduled DNA synthesis in XP-A cells. Thus, the bacterially expressed XPA protein retains biochemical properties identical to those of natural sources. The wild-type protein binds preferentially to UV-, cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (cisplatin)- or osmium tetroxide (OsO4)-damaged DNA as assayed by retention on nitrocellulose filters. In addition, the data from atomic absorption and UV-CD spectra revealed that the wild-type protein is a zinc metalloprotein with secondary structure. Furthermore, the mutant protein, of which the cysteine-103 residue in the zinc finger motif was replaced with serine, has a vastly different protein conformation resulting in a loss of XP-A correcting and DNA-binding activities. These findings indicate that the XPA protein is a zinc-binding protein with affinity for various DNA damages, and a cysteine residue in the C4-type zinc finger motif is indispensable for normal protein conformation.

Asymptomatic vesicoureteral reflux in children

Between 1973 and 1992, a routine voiding cystourethrography screening was performed in all children attending our urological clinic. A total of 1023 children were diagnosed as cases of primary vesicoureteral reflux; 166 (210 renal units) of them were asymptomatic and were studied retrospectively. Ninety-one patients presented with enuresis, 39 with hypospadias, 14 with undescended testis, 8 with asymptomatic proteinuria and 14 had other manifestations such as intersexuality, inguinoscrotal swelling, abnormal external genitalia, etc. We documented high-grade reflux (IV-V) in 16.2% and renal scarring in 16.7% of the 210 renal units. None of the children showed features of urinary tract infection (UTI) or had a definite history in the past, but 23.5% of the 166 cases developed UTI during their follow-up period. Spontaneous resolution of reflux was observed in 52.7% of the 150 renal units and progression of renal scarring in 20% during follow-up. Antireflux operation was performed in 15 cases (26 renal units). In 9 children (5.4%) we found gross renal damage which progressed in two cases to end-stage renal disease followed by renal transplantation. A small kidney was noted in 5 patients and hypertension in two. It is concluded that the natural history of asymptomatic reflux is almost the same as in symptomatic reflux. Thus, routine voiding cystourethrography is suggested in all children attending a urological clinic in order to detect reflux as early as possible.

Flavin-photosensitized monomerization of dimethylthymine cyclobutane dimer in the presence of magnesium perchlorate

We have investigated the photosensitized monomerization of the cis,syn-cyclobutane dimer of 1,3-dimethylthymine using riboflavin tetraacetate and a 5-deazaflavin derivative as photosensitizer. Although little monomerization of the dimer is induced by photoexcitation of the flavins in the absence of any additives, the flavins can function as an efficient photosensitizer in the presence of magnesium perchlorate. Mechanistic studies involving spectroscopic, quantum-yield and flash-photolysis measurements demonstrated that the photosensitized monomerization exclusively proceeds through electron transfer from the dimer to the triplet flavins complexed with Mg2+. The effects of magnesium perchlorate are compared with those on the chloranil-photosensitized monomerization and also with the effects of HClO4 on the flavin-photosensitized reaction.

[Liver impairment in kidney transplant recipients. 1. Prevalence and clinical significance of hepatitis C]

The prevalence and the clinical significance of hepatitis C (HCV) infection in recipients of kidney transplantation was assessed using second generation anti-HCV antibody (anti-HCV-2). Out of 88 patients whose preoperative sera were available for anti-HCV-2 determination, 27 patients (30.7%) were positive. Transfusion units were significantly larger and the duration of hemodialysis was significantly longer in the patients with anti-HCV-2 than those without. In 10 patients whose preoperative sera were negative for anti-HCV-2, seroconversion was documented after the operation, so that the postoperative positive rate of anti-HCV-2 increased to 42.9% (39/91). Seroconversion from positive to negative was observed in only one patient. Out of 91 patients who were followed-up at least 3 months after operation, 66 patients (72.5%) developed liver dysfunction. According to the criteria of non-A, non-B post-transfusion hepatitis established by the Japanese Society of Digestive Disease, 31 of 66 patients (34.1%) were diagnosed as "definite", 21 patients (23.1%) as "suspicious". The anti-HCV-2 positive rate was 90.3% in the "definite" group, which was significantly higher than the other groups. Liver dysfunction in the patients with anti-HCV-2 had a tendency for a chronic or prolonged course. Out of 20 patients in whom liver dysfunction continued for more than 1 year, 18 patients were positive for anti-HCV-2. It is concluded from this study that the prevalence of hepatitis C is very high in kidney transplant recipients with HCV as the main and most important etiologic factor of liver dysfunction, especially in chronic liver impairment.

Isolation of a Drosophila gene encoding a head-specific guanylyl cyclase

We have isolated and characterized a new guanylyl cyclase gene (dgc1) in Drosophila. The deduced amino acid sequence (683 amino acids) most closely resembled the mammalian soluble-type guanylyl cyclase alpha subunit. The cyclase catalytic domain was highly conserved between the mammalian and Drosophila guanylyl cyclases. The dgc1 mRNA was detected in wild-type heads but not in bodies, and its level was reduced in the mutant eyes absent (eya), indicating that dgc1 is preferentially expressed in the CNS and in the eye. The enriched distribution in the eye suggests that dgc1 may have a role in phototransduction.

Characterization of the insulin resistance in liver cirrhosis: a comparison with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

To characterize the mechanisms of insulin resistance in liver cirrhosis (LC), we estimated the peripheral tissue sensitivity and responsiveness to insulin using the euglycemic clamp technique and determined the insulin binding to erythrocytes in patients with compensated LC as well as in patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). The insulin dose-response curves of the glucose metabolic clearance rates (MCR) were shifted to the right and downward both in patients with LC and NIDDM, indicating a reduced sensitivity and responsiveness to insulin. In the cirrhotics, MCR at the maximally effective insulin level, an index of insulin responsiveness, was correlated with fasting insulin levels (r = -0.57, P < 0.01) and sigma BG in 75 gOGTT (r = -0.43, P < 0.05), but no correlations were found between them and the diabetics. Although specific insulin bindings to erythrocytes were significantly lower in patients both with LC and NIDDM, Scatchard analysis revealed a significant decrease in the number of insulin receptors in the cirrhotics, and a decrease in the empty-site affinity in the diabetics. These findings suggest that insulin resistance in LC consists of a combination of binding and postbinding defects. The latter defect may be caused by basal hyperinsulinemia and contribute to the development of glucose intolerance. Although binding and postbinding abnormalities are also found in NIDDM, the mechanisms of insulin resistance in LC and NIDDM may be different.

Mutational analysis of the structure and function of the xeroderma pigmentosum group A complementing protein. Identification of essential domains for nuclear localization and DNA excision repair

We showed previously that the xeroderma pigmentosum group A complementing (XPAC) protein involved in the DNA excision repair pathway contains a zinc-finger motif and is localized in the nucleus of normal human cells. For detailed structural and functional analyses of the XPAC protein, we constructed various XPAC cDNAs by site-directed mutagenesis and isolated permanent cell lines expressing mutant proteins. Immunofluorescent analysis of these lines indicated that the nuclear localization signal is located in the region encoded by Exon 1, especially centered at amino acids 30-42. A UV survival study showed that regions from Exons 2 through 6 were essential for DNA repair function, but that Exon 1 was not. Interestingly, deletion of the glutamic acid cluster in the region encoded by Exon 2 resulted in a dramatic loss of DNA repair activity. Furthermore, replacements of each of the 4 cysteines supposed to form a zinc-finger structure in the region encoded by Exon 3 by serine or glycine resulted in similar levels of loss of repair activity. These results suggest that all 4 cysteines forming a zinc-finger structure and also the glutamic acid cluster are important for DNA repair function.

Identification and characterization of xpac protein, the gene product of the human XPAC (xeroderma pigmentosum group A complementing) gene

We have cloned human xeroderma pigmentosum group A complementing (XPAC) cDNA that encodes a "zinc finger" protein with a predicted size of 31 kDa. To detect the xpac protein in cells, we raised antibody against a recombinant human xpac protein. Using this antibody, we identified the xpac protein in the nucleus of cells. In normal human cells, 40- and 38-kDa proteins were detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A reduced amount of the smaller protein was detected in XP 39OSSV cells, which show low UV sensitivity, and no xpac proteins were detected in XP 2OSSV cells, which show high UV sensitivity. These levels of xpac proteins in xeroderma pigmentosum cells were determinants of heterogeneity of the DNA repair defect in group A xeroderma pigmentosum. Synthesis of the xpac protein did not increase after UV irradiation.

Measurement of human hair growth by optical microscopy and image analysis

We have developed a quantitative method for measuring hair growth using optical microscopy and image analysis, and have used this to investigate the rate of growth in subjects with and without alopecia. The hairs were cut from an area 7-8 mm in diameter and 24 h and 72 h later, images of the areas were obtained using an optical microscope and were recorded on a video disc. Measurements of the regrowing hairs, placed parallel to the scalp using a glass slide attached to the front of the microscope, were made using the image analyser. In subjects with little or no baldness there was a clear difference between fast-growing hairs and resting or slow-growing hairs. However, in subjects with alopecia there was no such difference and the growth rate of all the hairs showed a continuous distribution. Using this method other parameters such as the number of hairs per unit area and hair diameter as well as grouping of the hairs could be measured.

[The frequency and mechanisms of urolithiasis in acromegaly]

It is generally accepted that acromegaly is often associated with hypercalciuria, but there are few reports on the frequency and the mechanisms of urolithiasis. Recently we consecutively experienced 2 cases of acromegaly with urolithiasis, and these experiences made us investigate the association between urolithiasis and acromegaly. Among 18 acromegalies from 1977 to March 1990 (10 males, 8 females, 24-64 years old), 13 cases (72%) fulfilled the criteria of hypercalciuria (urinary calcium (u-Ca) greater than or equal to 200 mg/day or u-Ca/urinary creatinine (u-Ca/u-Cr) greater than or equal to 0.15), and 7 cases (39%) suffered from urolithiasis that was diagnosed by KUB (4 cases) or X-ray computed tomography (CT) (3 cases). Especially in the last 2 years, 5 out of 7 cases (71%) were complicated with urolithiasis and all 7 cases were associated with hypercalciuria. These results suggest that hypercalciuria and urolithiasis are both much more frequent than previously reported. In 6 cases who were treated by pituitary adenomectomy from 1988-1989 (4 males, 2 females, 24-59 years old), we examined Ca metabolism before and after operation. Before operation, the levels of serum growth hormone (GH), u-Ca (mg/day), u-Ca/u-Cr (in all cases) and plasma somatomedin-C (Sm-C) (in 4 cases) were increased above the normal range. To determine the etiology of hypercalciuria, we performed the oral Ca load test under restriction of Ca (400 mg/day) and P (650 mg/day) intake. The results suggested that the hypercalciuria might be mainly due to the increased absorption of Ca from the intestine (so-called "Absorptive hypercalciuria"). However, the levels of serum vitamin D (Vit. D) metabolites were all within the normal range before operation. After operation, GH and u-Ca/u-Cr (in 5 cases) and u-Ca (mg/day) (in all cases) decreased significantly compared with before operation, and the levels of Sm-C (in all cases), serum 25-(OH)D3, 1 alpha, 25-(OH)2D3 (in 4 cases) and 24,25-(OH)2D3 (in 3 cases) were also reduced after operation. Surprisingly, u-Ca and u-Ca/u-Cr normalized only in 4 cases who showed a reduction in 1 alpha, 25-(OH)2D3 levels after operation, although there were no correlations between u-Ca (mg/day) or u-Ca/u-Cr and 1 alpha, 25-(OH)2D3. Significant correlations were found between u-Ca (mg/day) or u-Ca/u-Cr and Sm-C. The parathyroid function evaluated by the rapid Ca infusion test or nephrogenous cyclic adenosine monophosphate (NcAMP) was normal before and after operation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Characterization of a splicing mutation in group A xeroderma pigmentosum

The molecular basis of group A xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) was investigated by comparison of the nucleotide sequences of multiple clones of the XP group A complementing gene (XPAC) from a patient with group A XP with that of a normal gene. The clones showed a G----C substitution at the 3' splice acceptor site of intron 3, which altered the obligatory AG acceptor dinucleotide to AC. Nucleotide sequencing of cDNAs amplified by the polymerase chain reaction revealed that this single base substitution abolishes the canonical 3' splice site, thus creating two abnormally spliced mRNA forms. The larger form is identical with normal mRNA except for a dinucleotide deletion at the 5' end of exon 4. This deletion results in a frameshift with premature translation termination in exon 4. The smaller form has a deletion of the entire exon 3 and the dinucleotide at the 5' end of exon 4. The result of a transfection study provided additional evidence that this single base substitution is the disease-causing mutation. This single base substitution creates a new cleavage site for the restriction nuclease AlwNI. Analysis of AlwNI restriction fragment length polymorphism showed a high frequency of this mutation in Japanese patients with group A XP: 16 of 21 unrelated Japanese patients were homozygous and 4 were heterozygous for this mutation. However, 11 Caucasians and 2 Blacks with group A XP did not have this mutant allele. The polymorphic AlwNI restriction fragments are concluded to be useful for diagnosis of group A XP in Japanese subjects, including prenatal cases and carriers.

Analysis of a human DNA excision repair gene involved in group A xeroderma pigmentosum and containing a zinc-finger domain

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is an autosomal recessive disease, characterized by a high incidence of sunlight-induced skin cancer. Cells from people with this condition are hypersensitive to ultraviolet because of a defect in DNA repair. There are nine genetic complementation groups of XP, groups A-H and a variant. We have cloned the mouse DNA repair gene that complements the defect of group A, the XPAC gene. Here we report molecular cloning of human and mouse XPAC complementary DNAs. Expression of XPAC cDNA confers ultraviolet-resistance on several group A cell lines, but not on lines of other XP groups. Almost all group A lines tested showed abnormality or absence of XPAC messenger RNAs. These results indicate that a defective XPAC gene causes group A XP. The human and mouse XPAC genes are located on chromosome 9q34.1 and chromosome 4C2, respectively. Human XPAC cDNA encodes a protein of 273 amino acids with a zinc-finger motif.

Chloranil-photosensitized monomerization of dimethylthymine cyclobutane dimers and effect of magnesium perchlorate

The photosensitized monomerization of the cyclobutane dimers of 1,3-dimethylthymine by p-chloranil was investigated by means of steady-state irradiation and laser-flash photolysis. Quantum yields for the monomerization are 0.34 for the cis,syn dimer, 0.39 for the trans,syn dimer, and much less than 10(-2) for the cis,anti isomer. Formation of the chloranil anion radical associated with quenching of triplet chloranil by the dimers demonstrates that electron transfer from dimers to triplet chloranil occurs to initiate the monomerization. Kinetic analysis suggested that the syn-dimer cation radicals undergo the ring cleavage at greater than or equal to 10(9) s-1 before escaping from the solvent cage, while the reactivity of the anti-dimer cation radical is very low. The different reactivities of the syn and anti dimer cation radicals are discussed in terms of through-bond coupling between the n orbitals of N(1) and N(1') involving the cyclobutane-ring sigma orbitals. In the cases of the syn-dimers, the sensitizer-dimer ion-radical pairs undergo the rapid geminate recombination that works as a major energy dissipating channel responsible for the lower-than-unity quantum yields. It has been found that the presence of Mg(ClO4)2 at 0.1 M enhances approximately 1.5 times either the monomerization of the syn dimers or the formation of the chloranil anion radical. A laser-flash photolysis study shows that Mg2+ forms a complex with either the triplet or the anion radical of chloranil. The net salt effects are attributed to the retardation of the rapid geminate recombination by the participation of Mg2+ in the sensitizer-dimer ion-radical pairs.

[Immunohistochemical studies of the acne-like inflammatory model]

The acne-like inflammatory model was produced in the ears of male Sprague-Dawley rats by subcutaneous injection of 140 micrograms of heat killed Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Ear thickness was measured as an index of inflammatory strength, using a micro indicator once every day for the first week, then every other day until the 35th day. Animals were sacrificed and ears were excised for histological study. The tissue was stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin to investigate the state of inflammation. At the same time, P. acnes was stained specifically by enzyme labelled antibody to study the localization of the injected bacteria body. When thickness of rat ears was measured, more than a doubling of control ear was observed with maximum swelling on the second day. The ear thickness decreased to 1.5 times control levels at 5th day, then remained with no change for 35 days. Histological study revealed remarkable inflammatory infiltration of lymphocytes and neutrophils at the swelling site. Polynucleocyte was major infiltrated cells until 24 hours, and then mononucleocyte was principal after 24 hours. In the tissue excised at 6 hours after injection, a temporary characteristic infiltration of eosinophils was observed. When the tissue at 35th day was stained by enzyme labelled antibody, it revealed that the antigen of P. acnes existed among the cells at the site of infiltration and in mononucleocytes. This inflammatory model is considered to be a valuable experimental animal model for acne vulagaris with granulomatous inflammation.

[Polysaccharides in fungi. XXV. Biological activities of two galactomannans from the insect-body portion of Chán hua (fungus: Cordyceps cicadae)]

Biological activities of two galactomannans (CI-P and CI-A) isolated from the insectbody portion of Chán hua (fungus: Cordyceps cicadae) were studied. CI-P having low affinity for concanavalin A (Con A) exhibited potent carbon-clearance activity in mouse, although both polysaccharides had little antitumor activity against sarcoma 180 in mice. Furthermore, CI-P and CI-A was found to have potent hypoglycemic activity in normal mice, and CI-A having high affinity for Con A showed slightly higher activity than CI-P.

Comparison of the regional distribution of calspectin (nonerythroid spectrin or fodrin), alpha-actinin, vinculin nonerythroid protein 4.1, and calpactin in normal and avian sarcoma virus- or Rous sarcoma virus-induced transformed cells

With fluorescence and interference reflection microscopy (IRM), we compared the regional distribution of calspectin, its interacting proteins (nonerythroid protein 4.1 and calpactin), alpha-actinin, and vinculin in NRK cells and their avian sarcoma virus (ASV)- or temperature-sensitive (ts) Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-transformed cells. The localization of these cytoskeletal proteins was determined with the specific antibodies. In NRK cells, alpha-actinin and vinculin were concentrated at adhesion plaques. By contrast, calspectin was distributed throughout the cytoplasm, but not concentrated at adhesion plaques. In ASV- and ts RSV-transformed cells, all three cytoskeletal proteins were concentrated at dot structures representing cellular feet. Nonerythroid protein 4.1 and calpactin were diffusely distributed throughout the cytoplasm of NRK cells and their transformed counterparts. In the case of calpactin, a part of this protein was excluded near regions of the terminal ends of stress fibers. These two proteins did not show the restricted location at the dot structures of transformed cells. From these findings, it is apparent that the accumulation of calspectin into dot structures is a specific event for cell transformation induced by the src protein.

[A case of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder with heterotopic bone formation]

A 85-year-old woman consulted our clinic due to asymptomatic macrohematuria on January 6, 1987. In the cystoscopic examination, solitary and pedunculated bladder tumor was revealed. This tumor was located on the retrotrigonal region near the right ureteral orifice. On January 20, transurethral resection of bladder tumor was planned but the base of the tumor was stony hard, so complete resection was not performed. On February 10, transurethral resection of bladder was performed repeatedly. At that time, the cystoscopic finding showed that the tumor size had increased and transurethral bladder ultrasonography showed invasion into the deep muscular layer. On February 17, total cystectomy and ileal conduit was done. Histological examination revealed poorly differentiated TCC with osteoid, bone and cartilage. This patient was discharged in good condition on March 27. Heterotopic bone formation in the bladder tumor is rare. Ten cases were collected from the literature. We report a case of heterotopic bone formation and discuss the mechanism of the etiology.

Succinic acidemia: a new syndrome of organic acidemia associated with congenital lactic acidosis and decreased NADH-cytochrome c reductase activity

Two siblings with succinic acidemia, a hitherto unreported organic acidemia, were investigated. Succinic acidemia, lactic acidosis and respiratory distress were observed in one of the siblings, who died 37 days after birth, and succinic acidemia was also detected in the next sibling at the fetal stage. NADH-cytochrome c reductase activity was significantly low in both cases and NADH-ferricyanide reductase activity was also low in the fetal case, suggesting a complex I deficiency of the electron transport system in the mitochondrial membrane.

Effects of active oxygen scavengers on the peroxidation of linoleic acid catalyzed by dehydro-L-ascorbic acid or its degradation products

The addition of 1,4-diazabicyclo-[2,2,2]octane (DABCO) (100 mM) or 1,2-dihydroxybenzene-3,5-disulfonic acid (Tiron) (1 mM) to a reaction mixture containing 10 mM linoleic acid (LA), 20% EtOH, and 135 microM dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) as a catalyst suppressed LA peroxidation, but the addition of mannitol (approximately 100 mM), uric acid (100 microM), and catalase (6.5 units) did not. DHA or 2,3-diketo-L-gulonic acid (DKG) accelerated LA peroxidation, but the splitting products of DHA did not affect LA peroxidation. These results suggest that some specific radicals are liberated in the degradation of DHA or DKG.

Unsaturated fatty acids in mammalian cell strains cultured for more than 10 years in serum-free synthetic media

In cultured cells, essential lipids are usually supplied by the serum added to the culture medium. However, in a serum-free medium, essential lipids would need to be synthesized by the cells. Cell strains derived from kidney, spleen, uterine carcinoma and fibroblasts were cultured in serum-free synthetic media for more than 10 years and their fatty acids were analyzed capillary column gas-liquid-chromatography. The following conclusions were drawn: 1. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were not detected. Thus, prostaglandins are not appear to be essential for initiation of DNA synthesis in these cells. 2. A compensatory increase of the content of monounsaturated fatty acids was detected. 3. A large difference in vaccenic/oleic acid ratio was found among several strains of cells, but the ratio does not reflect that of the original tissues.