The G-protein on cholesterol-rich membrane microdomains mediates mucosal sensing of short- chain fatty acid and secretory response in rat colon

AIM

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) stimulate colonic contraction and secretion, which are mediated by an enteric reflex via a mucosal sensing and cholinergic mechanisms. The involvement of G-protein signal transduction was examined in the secretory response to luminal propionate sensing in rat distal colon.

METHODS

Mucosa-submucosa and mucosa preparations were used to measure short-circuit current (I(sc)) and acetylcholine (ACh) release respectively. Cholesterol-rich membrane microdomains, lipid rafts/caveolae, were fractionated using a sucrose gradient ultra-centrifugation after detergent-free extraction of the isolated colonic crypt.

RESULTS

Luminal addition of methyl-β-cyclodextrin (10 mm) and mastoparan (30 μm), lipid rafts/caveolae disruptors, significantly inhibited luminal propionate-induced (0.5 mm) increases in I(sc) , but did not affect increases in I(sc) induced by serosal ACh (0.05 mm) or electrical field stimulation (EFS). Luminal addition of YM-254890 (10 μm), a Gα(q/11) -selective inhibitor, markedly inhibited propionate-induced increase in I(sc) , but did not affect I(sc) responses to ACh and EFS. Both methyl-β-cyclodextrin and YM-254890 significantly inhibited luminal propionate-induced non-neuronal release of ACh from colonocytes. Real-time PCR demonstrated that in mRNA expression of SCFA receptors, GPR 43 was far higher than that of GPR41 in the colon. Western blotting analysis revealed that the cholesterol-rich membrane microdomains that fractionated from colonic crypt cells were associated with caveolin-1, flotillin-1 and Gα(q/11) , but not GPR43. Uncoupling of Gα(q/11) from flotillin-1 in lipid rafts occurred under desensitization of the I(sc) response to propionate.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that the secretory response to luminal propionate in rat colon is mediated by G-protein on cholesterol-rich membrane microdomains, provably via Gα(q/11) .

Enhanced IL-1beta production in response to the activation of hippocampal glial cells impairs neurogenesis in aged mice

A variety of mechanisms that contribute to the accumulation of age-related damage and the resulting brain dysfunction have been identified. Recently, decreased neurogenesis in the hippocampus has been recognized as one of the mechanisms of age-related brain dysfunction. However, the molecular mechanism of decreased neurogenesis with aging is still unclear. In the present study, we investigated whether aging decreases neurogenesis accompanied by the activation of microglia and astrocytes, which increases the expression of IL-1beta in the hippocampus, and whether in vitro treatment with IL-1beta in neural stem cells directly impairs neurogenesis. Ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1)-positive microglia and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes were increased in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus of 28-month-old mice. Furthermore, the mRNA level of IL-1beta was significantly increased without related histone modifications. Moreover, a significant increase in lysine 9 on histone H3 (H3K9) trimethylation at the promoter of NeuroD (a neural progenitor cell marker) was observed in the hippocampus of aged mice. In vitro treatment with IL-1beta in neural stem cells prepared from whole brain of E14.5 mice significantly increased H3K9 trimethylation at the NeuroD promoter. These findings suggest that aging may decrease hippocampal neurogenesis via epigenetic modifications accompanied by the activation of microglia and astrocytes with the increased expression of IL-1beta in the hippocampus.

A motion of forearm supination with maintenance of elbow flexion produced by electrical stimulation to two elbow flexors in humans

Motions of the forearm induced by electrical stimulation to two elbow flexors (brachioradialis: BR, biceps brachii: BB) were examined in five healthy human subjects. Stainless steel wire electrodes were implanted percutaneously into each motor point of the muscles. The muscles were stimulated separately with a computer-controlled multi-channel stimulator. The motions were taken with a digital video system. Angular changes of the motions in elbow flexion/extension and forearm pronation/supination were measured. Electromyograms (EMG) of BR, BB, and the triceps brachii (TB) were recorded. Electrical stimulation to BR induced a motion of flexion and that to BB motions of flexion and supination. The stimulation to BR with an adequate intensity provided holding of flexion with the prone forearm in all the subjects. In this situation, additional stimulation to BB resulted in motions of flexion and supination. However, the additional stimulation accompanied with a decrease of the stimulation intensity for BR provided a motion of supination with maintenance of the flexion in all the subjects. Since during the stimulation BR, BB, and TB showed no voluntary contraction in EMG, it is suggested that modulation of contraction between BR and BB by the stimulation can produce force in supination with keeping constant force in flexion to support the weight below the elbow.

[Differences between gynecological cancer patients taken care for at home and those taken care for at the hospital]

Thirty-five patients with end-stage gynecological cancer, twelve taken care for at home care and 23 taken care for at our hospital, were compared. The life span after recurrence was significantly (p < 0.05) longer in the group taken care for at home. The number of persons living with the patient was also significantly (p < 0.01) larger in the group taken care for at home. Moreover, the hospitalization in the end stage of the disease was significantly (p < 0.01) shorter in the group taken care for at home. The average hospitalization in the end was for 6.5 days. Four patients died at their home. Average period the 12 patients stayed at home was 52.7 days. Following matters are important in order to provide home care. 1. We must know the biological characteristics of the cancer. 2. It is important that it does not lose the timing to which shift to the home care, keeping good doctor-patient relationship. 3. Limit of the therapy against cancer and importance of treatment at home should be carefully and clearly explained to the patient.

Reactivity of 2-methylene-1,3-dicarbonyl compounds. 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction with ethyl diazoacetate

The reaction of 2-methylene-1,3-dicarbonyl compounds (1) with ethyl diazoacetate gave 4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole derivatives (2), which were stable for several months at room temperature in good yields.

Bacterial translocation in neonatal rats: the relation between intestinal flora, translocated bacteria, and influence of milk

BACKGROUND

A high incidence of bacterial translocation in neonates results not only from immaturity of host-defense functions, but also from the dominant colonization of aerobic bacteria in the intestine. Bacterial colonization develops differently among breast-fed, formula-fed, premature, and full-term infants. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of bacterial translocation and to identify the translocated bacterial species, relating these findings to the intestinal microflora and to the type of feeding in neonatal rats.

METHODS

Animals were divided into three groups: breast-fed normal pups (MR group), formula-fed pups fed via an intragastric cannula implanted esophageally (AR group), and breast-fed pups after the removal of the cannula (Sham group). Artificial rearing was achieved using a machine feeding system. Culture and identification of the bacteria in the intestine, mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, portal blood, and lungs were made using a simplified version of Mitsuoka's method.

RESULTS

At 14 days of age, the dominant bacteria in the feces of the MR and Sham Groups were Enterobacteriaceae, Lactobacillus, and Enterococcus, but Enterobacteriaceae and Clostridium were significantly more common in the AR group than in the MR group. The dominant bacteria in the mesenteric lymph nodes were Enterobacteriaceae, Lactobacillus, and Staphylococcus. The extent of systemic bacterial translocation decreased earlier in the Sham group than in the AR group.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency with which species of bacteria were cultured from mesenteric lymph nodes and other peripheral sites did not mirror the composition of the intestinal flora. Among the translocated bacteria, Staphylococcus may be especially hard to recognize and difficult for the host-defense systems to destroy. Breast-feeding inhibited systemic bacterial translocation in the suckling period of the rat.

Distinct involvement of NF-kappaB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in serum deprivation-mediated stimulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase and its inhibition by 4-hydroxynonenal

Cytokine-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and concomitant production of nitric oxide (NO) involve activation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases and are in most cases mediated by the transcription factor NF-kappaB. We investigated the role of p38 MAP kinase activation and IkappaB phosphorylation in iNOS expression in a novel iNOS-inducing model in mouse macrophages. Deprivation of serum from the culture medium of RAW 264.7 cells up-regulated iNOS and NO production, which were inhibited by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), a component of oxidatively modified low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). Serum withdrawal induced phosphorylation of Akt, IkappaB, and p38 MAP kinase. Pretreatment with the potent PI3 kinase inhibitor wortmannin, the NF-kappaB inhibitor PDTC or the specific p38 MAP kinase inhibitor SB203580 each partially attenuated the induction of iNOS and NO production, demonstrating that both p38 activation and IkappaB phosphorylation are required for iNOS expression. SB203580, however, did not prevent the phosphorylation of Akt and IkappaB, suggesting that the p38 MAP kinase signal contributes to iNOS gene expression through an IkappaB-phosphorylation-independent pathway. HNE, which markedly inhibited iNOS expression and NO production, prevented the serum withdrawal-triggered IkappaB phosphorylation but not that of Akt or p38 MAP kinase. A high concentration of HNE stimulated dephosphorylation of IkappaB but promoted activation of p38 MAP kinase. Taken together, these results suggest that NF-kappaB and p38 MAP kinase lie in separate signal pathways for serum deprivation-stimulated iNOS expression and NO production. HNE selectively suppresses the former pathway, targeting a site downstream of Akt.

[Testicular malignant lymphoma: report of two cases]

One patient was a 79-year-old man, who exhibited right scrotal swelling and the other patient was a 73-year-old man, who exhibited left scrotal swelling. Both patients received high orchiectomy under the diagnosis of testicular tumor and the histopathological diagnosis in both patients was non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Case 1 was diffuse, medium-sized B cell type, and case 2 was diffuse, mixed B cell type. Several examinations revealed no apparent additional involvement. Neither patient received any adjuvant chemotherapy nor postoperative irradiation. In case 1, for a period of 4 years following high orchiectomy, the patient has been doing well. In case 2, 2 years and 6 months postoperatively, para-aortic lymph node swelling occurred, and chemotherapy was initiated with THP-COP but the patient died at 3 years and 3 months after high orchiectomy.

[Clinical study on renal trauma]

A total of 64 patients with renal trauma were treated at the Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, from January 1988 to December 1996. Patients were between 3 and 66 years old (mean 28.2); 56 (87.5%) of them were male and 8 (12.5%) were female. The main cause of injury was a traffic accident in 33 cases (51.6%). According to the Classification of Renal Injury by the Japanese Association for the Surgery of Trauma in Japan, there were 27 cases (42.2%) of Type I (subcapsular injury), 12 cases (18.8%) of Type II (superficial injury), 16 cases (25.0%) of Type III (Deep injury), 6 cases (9.4%) of Type IV (Pedicle injury). Surgical treatment was performed in 6 cases (9.3%). The major associated injuries were bone fracture in 33 cases (51.6%), lung injury in 20 cases (31.3%) and liver injury in 16 cases (25.0%). The literature is also reviewed briefly.

Comparison of polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and conventional histopathology in the diagnosis of early leprosy in Sichuan Province of China

46 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin biopsy specimens, which were clinically suspected or diagnosed as early leprosy, were retrieved from the files of Sichuan, China from 1997 to 1999. All of them were examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the primers amplifying the 130 base-pair fragment of the gene from the 16S ribosomal RNA of Mycobacterium leprae, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, modified Fite-Faraco technique for M. leprae and immunostaining with the antiserum against the PGL-1, LAM-B, S-100 protein using ABC method. PCR was positive for 27 (58.7%) of 46 specimens. In 13 (28.3%) among them, only PCR signals were positive for M. leprae and all other test were negative. AFB was positive for 7 (15.2%) of 46, PGL-1 was positive for 17 (36.9%) of 46, LAM-B was positive for 10 (21.7%) of 46. Early epithelioid cells granuloma was detected in 4 (8.7%) patients (TT 3, BT 1), macrophage granuloma was detected in 1 (2.2%) patient (BL), S-100 protein staining showed early nerve granuloma for 4 (8.7%) of 46, peripheral nerve inflammatory infiltration for 11 (23.9%) of 46. Comparison PCR with other method showed statistically significant difference. PCR have an advantage over microscopic examination in detecting M. leprae in biopsy specimens negative for acid-fast bacilli.

Effect of testosterone on the number of NADPH diaphorase-stained nerve fibers in the rat corpus cavernosum and dorsal nerve

OBJECTIVES

To elucidate the effect of testosterone on penile nerve supply.

METHODS

Three groups of 10 rats each were assessed; two groups were castrated and the third underwent a sham operation (control). After castration, one group received subcutaneous injection of testosterone while the others received sesame oil. At 8 weeks, the rats underwent a functional analysis. The evaluation included a subcutaneous injection with apomorphine to study centrally mediated erection, and cavernous nerve electrostimulation and papaverine injection to study peripherally mediated erection. At death, a penile midshaft specimen was taken for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) diaphorase staining.

RESULTS

In the apomorphine study, castrated rats had no erections, but the erectile function of those receiving testosterone was restored to the level of the controls. The mean numbers of NADPH-diaphorase-stained nerve fibers in the copora cavernosa and both dorsal nerves of castrated rats, at 165.8 +/- 20.0 and 271.3 +/- 21.1, respectively, were significantly lower than those of the controls, at 271.7 +/- 14.6 and 471.2 +/- 27.6, respectively. Those of the testosterone replacement group, at 290.7 +/- 10.1 and 500.7 +/- 23.9, respectively, recovered to the control level. The intracavernosal pressure decreased significantly in the absence of testosterone, both after electrostimulation and intracavernosal papaverine injection, and recovered to the control level after testosterone replacement.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that testosterone acts on the nervous system to mediate erection. When it is absent, there may be downregulation of both the production and activity of nitric oxide (NO), thereby decreasing the response to peripheral stimulation via the NO pathway. Testosterone replacement may upregulate NO activity to the control level.

Clinico-histopathological findings of Buruli ulcer

Here, we report the clinico-pathological findings of Buruli ulcer. The patients were 2 females, 9 and 23 years of age and one male, 47 years of age from the Ashanti Country of Ghana. Clinically, cutaneous lesions were classified as nodular, ulcero-nodular and ulcerative. Histopathologically, lesions involved cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue, which showed lympho-epithelioid cell proliferation and panniculitis with characteristic fat necrotic changes. Vascular inflammation, with the nerve tissue involvement, are prominent features on the chronological spectrum of the 3 cases. In all but the early case, Mycobacterium ulcerans could be visualized from the mid dermal area to the subcutis by Fite-Faraco and Harada stain. The ulcerated lesions were also immunoreactive to phenolic glycolipid-1 (PGL-1). These findings suggest Mycobacterium ulcerans infection with lesions of different ages. Further, we also show the need to identify distinct characteristics for differential diagnosis with lesions caused by other mycobacteria.

Delayed testosterone replacement restores nitric oxide synthase-containing nerve fibres and the erectile response in rat penis

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the effect of testosterone on penile innervation. Materials and methods Three groups of six rats each were assessed; two groups (1 and 2) were castrated and the third (group 3) underwent a sham operation (control). Eight weeks after castration, group 2 received a subcutaneous injection with testosterone. At 8 weeks, the rats in group 1 and 3 underwent a final functional analysis while those in group 2 did so at 12 weeks. The evaluation included a subcutaneous injection with apomorphine to study centrally mediated erection, and cavernosal nerve electrostimulation and papaverine injection to study peripherally mediated erection. At death a penile mid-shaft specimen was taken for NADPH-diaphorase staining.

RESULTS

In the apomorphine study, castration resulted in significantly fewer yawns and erections than in the control, and those in group 2 significantly better central erectile function than in the controls. The mean (SEM) number of nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-containing nerve fibres in the corpora cavernosa and both dorsal nerves of castrated rats, at 46.2 (9.1) and 203 (32.1), respectively, were significantly lower than in rats in group 2, at 84.1 (11.2) and 300.6 (17.1), and than in the controls, at 88.6 (10.9) and 306.3 (22.9), respectively. The intracavernosal pressure decreased significantly in the absence of testosterone, both after electrostimulation and intracavernosal papaverine injection. However, there was no difference between the control and group 2 rats in either the number of NOS-containing nerve fibres or in the peripheral erectile functional study.

CONCLUSIONS

Testosterone acts on the nervous system to mediate erection; when it is absent there may be down-regulation of both the production and activity of NO, thereby decreasing the response to peripheral stimulation via the NO pathway. The restoration of erectile function seen in rats in group 2 supports this phenomenon. Delayed testosterone replacement has no detrimental effect on the restoration of the erectile mechanism after castration.

[Clinical study of transurethral surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia using a thick loop (VaporTome)]

From December 1996 to June 1998, we performed transurethral surgery of the prostate using a thick loop, VaporTome developed by Circon ACMI on 23 patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The mean international prostate symptom score decreased significantly, from 22.6 at baseline to 9.0, 6.5, 4.9 and 5.3 at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after operation, respectively. The mean quality of life index also decreased significantly, from 5.5 to 1.8, 1.8, 1.4 and 1.2, respectively. The mean peak flow rate increased significantly, from 6.2 preoperatively to 15.8, 17.1, 16.6 and 17.4 ml/sec at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after operation, respectively. The mean prostate volume decreased significantly, from 66.9 to 24.8, 17.3, 19.0 and 18.2 ml. The mean residual urine decreased significantly, from 167.9 to 11.4, 9.4, 12.8 and 20.4 ml. As for overall efficacy, the rate of excellent and good cases at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months was 80.9, 89.4, 94.7 and 85.8%, respectively. No serious complications were observed. Our clinical results suggest that transurethral surgery for BPH using VaporTome has several potential advantages including high efficacy, minimal morbidity compared with standard transurethral resection of the prostate and lower cost compared with other minimally invasive procedures.

Decapitated and decaudated spermatozoa in man, and pathogenesis based on the ultrastructure

The ultrastructure of decapitated tails and decaudated heads of ejaculated spermatozoa from an infertile man were investigated. The decaudated heads had the nucleus and acrosome, but neither the implantation fossa nor the basal plate were observed at the caudal pole of the nucleus. The nuclear membrane at this portion showed numerous nuclear pores. The decapitated tails contained the proximal centriole at the proximal end. In addition, most decapitated tails had segmented columns, outer coarse fibres, axoneme, mitochondrial sheath and fibrous sheath in the normal position. The ultrastructure reflects the high motility of the decapitated tails of the spermatozoa. Drastic abnormalities were found in the developing spermatids in the biopsied testes. In spermatids later than the Golgi phase, the pair of centrioles were floating in the cytoplasm of the spermatid, but the distal centriole elongated the flagellum. Neither the implantation fossa nor the basal plate were observed at the caudal pole of the nucleus. It is concluded that the tail might be separated from the head before or after completion of tail formation in spermatids. The explanation for why the proximal centriole failed to connect to the nucleus is unknown.

[A case of recurrent spontaneous vesical rupture subsequent to irradiation for uterine cancer]

The patient, a 68-year-old woman, had undergone radical hysterectomy and post-operative radiotherapy for uterine cancer in 1974. She was admitted to our hospital complaining of abdominal pain in February, 1996. Contrast-enhanced computed tomographic scan and cystography showed leakage of contrast medium around the bladder. We diagnosed her with spontaneous vesical rupture, and performed conservative therapy. Two months later, she was re-admitted with recurrent vesical rupture. We again performed conservative therapy. We consider that conservative therapy can be indicated for spontaneous vesical rupture with good general condition and no severe urinary tract infection.

Presence and quantification of neuropeptide Y in pulmonary edema fluids in rats

The present study was undertaken to determine the contribution of neuropeptide Y to edema occurrence in neurogenic and hydrostatic pulmonary edema. To induce neurogenic pulmonary edema, fibrinogen and thrombin were injected into the cisterna magna; and to evoke hydrostatic pulmonary edema, saline was infused intravenously. Concentrations of neuropeptide Y in serum and edema fluid were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which showed a mean value of 158 nM (95% confidence limit 124-202 nM) in the neurogenic edema fluid, significantly higher than that in the hydrostatic one. Using immunohistochemistry, fluorescent signals reactive to neuropeptide Y were found in the alveolar macrophages and edema fluid in case of fibrin-induced pulmonary edema, but were almost absent in hydrostatic edema and absent in normal lungs. Mean ratio of protein concentrations in edema fluid to that in serum was 74.9 +/- 0.9% in fibrin-induced pulmonary edema, being higher than that in hydrostatic one. From these results, we conclude that neuropeptide Y has a relationship to the high protein concentration ratio, i.e., to increased pulmonary vascular permeability, and consequently may contribute to the development of neurogenic pulmonary edema in rats.

[The virulence for mice of newly described mycobacterial species]

The virulence for mice of some newly described slowly growing mycobacterial species, M. intermedium DSM 44049 (Group I), M. lentiflavum ATCC 51985 and M. interjectum ATCC 51457 (Group II), M. genavense ATCC 51233, M. celatum ATCC 51131, M. branderi ATCC 51788 and M. conspicuum DSM 6333 (Group III) was compared with the virulence of M. intracellulare N-260 (virulent strain). 10(6) CFU cultured in Middlebrook 7H9 medium were given i.v. to the BALB/c mice. Infected animals were sacrificed after one day and 56 days, and observed for the incidence and/or degree of gross lesions of visceral organs. The bacterial load (CFU) in tissue homogenates of the lungs and spleen was counted using 7H11 agar plates. Macroscopically, marked enlargement of the spleen and numerous small whitish nodules in the lungs of mice infected with M. intracellulare were noted, whereas with other test strains no gross disease in the lungs and slight enlargement of the spleen of mice infected with M. genavense and M. branderi were noted. The average log CFU in the lungs and spleen 56 days after the infection was in the order as follows: M. intracellulare (5.90 and 7.57, respectively), M. genavense (4.35, 7.15), M. celatum (5.01, 6.00), M. branderi (4.09, 6.33), M. conspicuum (3.11, 5.10), M. intermedium (2.26, 4.19), M. lentiflavum (1.70, 3.91), and M. interjectum (1.43, 2.93). Microscopically, granulomatous lesions mainly consisted of macrophages with acid-fast bacilli were found in the alveolar walls and splenic red pulp of mice infected with M. intracellulare. No histopathological changes were produced in the lungs of any of mice infected with other test strains, and some milder features were revealed in the spleen of mice infected with M. genavense, M. branderi and M. celatum. Thus, we concluded that all of the test strains of the newly described nontuberculous slowly growing mycobacteria were less virulent for mice than were M. intracellulare.

Purification and some characteristics of enterocin ON-157, a bacteriocin produced by Enterococcus faecium NIAI 157

Bacteriocin-like activity (BLA) was screened in 690 strains of lactic acid bacteria isolated from plant materials such as silages and fermented vegetables. Among them, a strain identified as Enterococcus faecium NIAI 157 showed a clear BLA against the indicator strain, Ent. faecium IFO 13712. The proteinaceous nature and antimicrobial activity against closely related species strongly indicated that this BLA was a bacteriocin and was designated enterocin ON-157. The bacteriocin activity of this strain was extracellularly produced in the logarithmic growth phase in MRS broth and purified by ultrafiltration, ammonium sulphate precipitation and cation-exchange chromatography. Purified enterocin ON-157 had a molecular weight of approximately 2500 Da in SDS-PAGE analysis and was easily inhibited by treatment with alpha-amylase and proteolytic enzymes. Enterocin ON-157 had a bactericidal mode of action and inhibited the growth of the enterococci, Lactobacillus sake and Listeria monocytogenes. Enterococcus faecium NIAI 157 harboured two plasmids, 49.0 kb and 43.7 kb, and a variant missing a larger plasmid by curing with novobiocin lost the bactriocin activity.

Protective role of nitric oxide synthase against ischemia-reperfusion injury in guinea pig myocardial mitochondria

In guinea-pig myocardial mitochondria preparation, lowering the Ca2+ concentration or pH level in the perfusate rapidly elevated the fura-2 Ca2+ signal ([Ca2+]m). Pretreatment with 10(-4) M L-Arg inhibited the rapid [Ca2+]m influx, whereas administration of 10(-4) M L-NAME did not, suggesting some association between nitric oxide (NO*) synthase (NOS) activation and Ca2+ kinetics in mitochondria. Immunoblotting analysis showed that endothelial (e)-NOS was present in mitochondria, but not inducible (i)-NOS or brain (b)-NOS. Electron microscopy observations revealed that the e-NOS antibody-reactive site in the mitochondria was the inner cristae. The production of reactive oxygen species and NO* in isolated mitochondria was detected by the spin trapping technique with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometry. Pretreatment with 10(-5) M S-nitroso-N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine (SNAP) and 10(-5) M 3-[2-Hydroxy-1-(1-methylethyl)-2-nitrosohydrazino]-1-propananin e (NOC 5), which spontaneously generate NO*, completely inhibited the [Ca2+]m uptake. In addition, N-morpholino sydnonimine hydrochloride (SIN-1) (10(-5) M), which simultaneously generates NO* as well as *O2- and peroxynitrite anion (ONOO-), inhibited the increase in [Ca2+]m. ONOO- (3 x 10(-4) M) itself also inhibited this increase. Pretreatment with the *O2(-)-scavenger manganese superoxide dismutase or catalase (200 units/ml) completely inhibited the increase in [Ca2+]m caused by lowering of either the Ca2+ concentration or the pH in the perfusate. These results suggested that the formation of reactive oxygen species promoted the [Ca2+]m influx. The agents that inhibited the [Ca2+]m influx improved contractility even in Langendorff preparations after ischemia. Based on these findings, we concluded that e-NOS exists in mitochondria and that NO* may play an important protective role in reperfusion cardiac injury after ischemia, by inhibiting the Ca2+ influx into mitochondria which are otherwise damaged by *O2-.

[Clinical study of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia]

We report our clinical experience of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (TUVP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using VaporTrode developed by Circon ACMI. From April to November 1995, we treated 22 patients with symptomatic BPH with TUVP. The mean I-PSS decreased significantly, from 21.8 at baseline to 8.1, 4.5, 4.3 and 5.4 at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after operation, respectively. The mean QOL index also decreased significantly, from 5.2 to 1.5, 1.0, 1.3 and 1.3. The mean peak flow rate increased significantly, from 9.0 preoperatively to 17.4, 17.7, 20.8 and 16.5 ml/sec at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after TUVP, respectively. The mean prostate volume decreased significantly, from 41.5 to 22.9, 18.6, 18.8 and 19.9 ml. The mean residual urine decreased significantly, from 90.0 to 17.6, 20.6, 24.1 and 9.4 ml. As for overall efficacy, the rate of excellent and good cases at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months was 77.3, 95.5, 95.0 and 84.2%, respectively. No serious complications were observed. Our clinical results suggest that TUVP using VaporTrode has several potential advantages including good efficacy, minimal morbidity and lower cost compared with other less invasive procedures, and may become the useful way of surgical treatment for BPH.

Brief survey of leprosy situation in Congo: sero-epidemiologic profile in correlation with some emerging viral infections

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC, former Zaire) in central Africa remains the foremost country for leprosy in Africa, with a total of 4877 registered cases, of which 4573 are new cases since 1997. These numbers are well above the regional average. About 94% of these patients are under multidrug therapy (MDT) coverage in the Congo, which ranks 8th in coverage rate among the surrounding nine nations. Available data on anatomo-clinical profile and bacillarity are provided, with reservations on the use of these data drwn due to relatively small sample sizes. The seroprofile of the disease was reviewed with regard to the association of other immunity impairing infections like HBV infection and the recently highly incident retroviral epidemics (HIV-1, HTLV-1, and HTLV-2). The leading role of non-governmental organizations is cited for improving leprosy patient conditions and also for future prospects, where the necessity of coordinated strategies with the government is emphasized. Recommendations for new trends and steps relevant to improving existing and future leprosy control strategies are put into perspective.

Electromyographic study of the elbow flexors and extensors in a motion of forearm pronation/supination while maintaining elbow flexion in humans

Activities of the elbow flexors (biceps brachii, BB; brachialis, B; brachioradialis, BR) and extensors (triceps brachii, TB) in a motion of forearm pronation/supination with maintenance of elbow flexion (PS-movement) in nine healthy human subjects were studied by electromyography (EMG). The subject performed the PS-movement slowly or quickly with or without a load extending the elbow. In the slow PS-movement, an increase and decrease of EMG activities during supination and pronation, respectively, were seen in BB and the reverse was in B. A clear increment of EMG activities in BB accompanied with a reduction of EMG activities in B and/or BR, and the reverse were often observed. The contraction level and gain with the forearm supine were higher and larger than those with the forearm prone, respectively, in BB and the reverse was in B and BR. In a series of the quick PS-movement, alternating increases of EMG activities between BB and the other flexors (B and BR) were seen. Since TB showed no EMG activities throughout the experiment, it is suggested that reciprocal contractions between BB and the other flexors, which produce a complementary force in flexion direction, enable motions of pronation/supination with maintenance of flexion. Contraction properties of the flexors were discussed.

Polymerase chain reaction analysis of the Y chromosome long arm in azoospermic patients: lack of the Y chromosome recognition motif (YRRM1) gene

We analyzed DNA from a patient with azoospermia whose Y chromosome was cytogenetically normal. A total of 16 loci on the Y chromosome long arm were examined: 15 loci between DYS7E and DYZ1, and the Y chromosome RNA recognition motif (YRRM1) locus, a candidate gene for the azoospermic factor AZF. We did not detect the YRRM1 gene in this patient. This finding supports the theory that YRRM1 is an essential gene for spermatogenesis.

The effect of low intensity bicycle exercise on the insulin-induced glucose uptake in obese patients with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

The present study was undertaken to reveal the effect of low intensity bicycle exercise on the insulin-induced glucose uptake in obese patients.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Seven obese men with Type 2 diabetes (OBDM) and seven healthy young men (HY) participated in this study. The glucose infusion rate (GIR) was determined by glucose clamp procedure at an insulin infusion rate of 40 mU m-2 min-1 (plasma insulin concentrations: 700-800 pmol l-1). Confirming stabilized GIR, a 30-min bicycle exercise was performed during the glucose clamp which was continued for 120 min after exercise.

RESULTS

Average GIR in OBDM for last 30 min prior to exercise were significantly lower than HY (28.3 +/- 1.7, 47.4 +/- 1.8 mumol kg-1 min-1 respectively, P < 0.05). GIR abruptly increased during exercise and gradually decreased after exercise to the nadir almost at the time from 30 to 60 min in recovery period in both groups. GIR in OBDM, however, gradually increased significantly over pre-exercise levels (P < 0.05), following exercise and reached the same levels compared to HY after 80 min of recovery period.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that in obese Type 2 diabetes, 30 min of low intensity bicycle exercise significantly enhances the lower level of insulin-induced glucose uptake shortly after exercise and might be useful for the treatment of post-prandial hyperglycemia.

Inhibition in a microgravity environment of the recovery of Escherichia coli cells damaged by heavy ion beams during the NASDA ISS phase I program of NASA Shuttle/Mir mission no. 6

We participated in a space experiment, part of the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) Phase I Space Radiation Environment Measurement Program, conducted during the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shuttle/Mir Mission No. 6 (S/MM-6) project. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of microgravity on the DNA repair processes of living organisms in the <Realtime Radiation Monitoring Device III (RRMD III)> in orbit. Heavy ion beam radiation- or ç-irradiation-damaged biological samples of Escherichia coli and the radioresistant bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans were prepared and placed in a biospecimen box, which was loaded into the RRMD III sensor unit of the Space Shuttle. Two identical sets of samples were left in the Spacehab's Payload Processing Facility (SPPF) in Florida, USA, as a control. (flight No. STS-84) was launched from NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida, USA, on May 15, 1997. The mission duration was 9.22 days. An astronaut activated the biological samples in the biospecimen box in the Spacehab during orbit in order to start repair of the DNA damaged by heavy ion beams or ç-irradiation and the samples were incubated for 19 h 35 min at about 22ûC, the cabin temperature. The control specimens in the SPPF were subjected to the same treatment under terrestrial gravity. After returned to earth, we investigated cell recovery by comparing the repair of the radiation-damaged DNA of E. coli and D. radiodurans in the microgravity environment in space with that on Earth. The results indicated that the DNA repair process of E. coli, but not of D. radiodurans, cells was inhibited in a microgravity environment.

Regenerative changes in median nerve defects using various rabbit skeletal muscles

We examined the morphological changes of median nerve regeneration which situated to pass through degenerative latissimus dorsi and brachial triceps muscles in rabbits. Morphological observation was performed at 7, 14, 28, 45, 60 and 180 days after the creation of defect of the bilateral median nerves. Regenerative nerve fibers were observed in the residual tubes of left degenerative muscle bridges. In this respect the regenerative effect of the latissimus dorsi was better than that of the brachial triceps. These results suggest that regular and longer muscle fibers as those of latissimus dorsi may contribute to the effective regeneration of nerve.

Basic fibroblast growth factor promotes extension of regenerating axons of peripheral nerve. In vivo experiments using a Schwann cell basal lamina tube model

Schwann cell basal lamina tubes serve as attractive conduits for regeneration of peripheral nerve axons. In the present study, by using basal lamina tubes prepared by in situ freeze-treatment of rat saphenous nerve, the effects of exogenously applied basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on peripheral nerve regeneration was examined 2 and 5 days after bFGF administration. Regenerating axons were observed by light and electron microscopy using PGP9.5-immunohistochemistry for specific staining of axons. In addition, the localizations of bFGF and its receptor (FGF receptor-1) were examined by immunohistochemistry using anti-bFGF antibody and anti-FGF receptor-1 antibody, respectively. Regenerating axons extended further in the bFGF-administered segment than in the bFGF-untreated control segment. Electron microscopy showed that regenerating axons grew out unaccompanied by Schwann cells. Findings concerning angiogenesis and Schwann cell migration were very similar between the bFGF treated and control nerve segment. bFGF-immunoreactivity was not detected in the control nerve segment. In contrast, bFGF-immunoreactivity was detected on the basal lamina tubes as well as on the plasmalemma of regenerating axons facing the basal lamina in the bFGF treated nerve segment up to 5 days after administration, suggesting that exogenous bFGF can be retained in the basal lamina for several days after administration. FGF receptor was detected on the plasma membrane of regenerating axons where they abutted the basal lamina. These results indicate that bFGF could promote the extension of early regenerating axons by directly influencing the axons, but not via Schwann cells or angiogenesis.

[Pathological findings of the liver in Hansen's disease]

In leprosy patients, granulomatous lesion are often observed, not only in skin and nerve, but also other visceral organs such as liver, kidney, spleen and cardiovascular system. But for the development of drug therapy, there are very few cases we can see the acid-fast bacilli in the lesion these days. We have reviewed the histopathological lesions in the liver of leprosy patients who had been treated for long term, based on autopsy findings of 31 cases, including 24 cases with lepromatous leprosy (LL) and 7 cases with tuberculoid leprosy (TL). Except one case of LL with progressive stage, most of them diagnosed as retrogressive or quiescent stage. Morphologically, acid-fast bacilli and granuloma were seen in a few cases of Hansen's disease. In addition, no suggestive changes of drug and virus induced liver injury were recognized. However, sclerotic change of portal vein was remarkably encountered in the tuberculoid leprosy.

[Pathology of the heart and blood vessels in Hansen's disease]

There are few reports on the cardiovascular changes accompanying Hansen's disease, and many aspects remain unclear. We performed macroscopic and histologic examinations on the cardiovascular system in autopsy (47 cases of L type, 2 cases of B type and 14 cases of T type) and biopsy cases of Hansen's disease. The changes in small blood vessels and capillaries were also observed using electron microscopy. Cardiac changes such as atrophy, hypertrophy, fibrosis and endocarditis, epicarditis and coronary sclerosis, were observed, and severe fibrosis was significantly more common in the T type cases. The heart weight tended to decrease with age in the T type cases, but such tendency was not observed in the L type cases, with some cases showing an increased heart weight. Marked atrophy, fibrosis, swelling and hyperplasia were observed in the peripheral nerves around the arteries in the epicardial adipose tissue and arterioles in the myocardium. These changes were caused by ageing of the vessels feeding the peripheral nerves, together with changes due to Hansen's disease, such as circulatory disturbance in vessels feeding the peripheral nerves, augmentation of vascular permeability and ischemic changes due to over-stratification of the basement membrane. Because these peripheral nerves were distributed around the arteries in the epicardial adipose tissue and they were probably vasomotor nerves. These results suggest that paralytic arterial changes may promote the ischemic cardiac disease or fibrosis.

[A case of 47XYY syndrome presenting with male infertility]

A 32-year-old man was referred to our hospital for primary infertility of a 4.5-year duration. Neither character nor intelligence disorders were observed. Bilateral testes measured 16 ml each. Sperm density was 0-0.1 x 10(6)/ml on 3 separate occasions. Endocrine examinations were all within normal limits. Maturation arrest was found on testicular biopsy. Karyotyping showed 47, XYY inversion. Polymerase chain reaction revealed no deletion of the azoospermic factor (AZF) gene on the Y chromosome. This is the 6th case reported in the Japanese literature of the 47XYY syndrome presenting with male infertility.

Diagnostic magnetic resonance-urography in an infant girl with an ectopic ureter associated with a poorly functioning segment of a duplicated collecting system

We report on a case of an ectopic ureter associated with a duplicated collecting system in a 6-month-old girl. Results of conventional imaging and endoscopic studies, including intravenous pyelography, ultrasonography of the kidneys, cystoscopy, vaginoscopy, and vaginogram, were unremarkable. An ectopic ureter, extending from a poorly functioning upper pole of the ipsilateral duplicated kidney to its vaginal opening, was visible on the magnetic resonance-urogram. The imaging time was not extensive, and the need for patient sedation was minimal. Respiratory motion and intestinal gas did not interfere with the quality of the images. Magnetic resonance-urography may possibly be used as a primary diagnostic method for this anomaly when it is not detected by standard imaging techniques, or as a noninvasive substitute for some interventional studies in infants.

Clinical manifestations of Takayasu arteritis in India and Japan--new classification of angiographic findings

In this retrospective review 102 Indian and 80 Japanese patients with Takayasu arteritis were compared in regard to their clinical manifestations and angiographic findings. Regardless of nationality, most patients were initially affected in their teens or twenties. Japanese patients were female in a larger ratio compared with the ratio in India. Clinically, the two groups exhibited several different features. More Japanese patients were found to be pulseless (P < 0.01) whereas many Indian patients were hypertensive (P < 0.01). Inflammatory conditions in Japanese patients were more severe (P < 0.01) and tended to be more prolonged than those in the Indians. More Japanese patients suffered from aortic regurgitation (P < 0.01), but Indians suffered from hypertension (P < 0.01). Angiographic findings revealed that the aortic arch and its branches were mainly involved in Japanese patients (type I, IIa) whereas the abdominal aorta and its branches were mainly involved in Indian patients (type IV). However, the diffusely involved type (type V) was the one most commonly found in both countries. From the analyses of vascular lesions in both Indian and Japanese patients, 510 and 396, respectively, different progressions of vasculitis are speculated. In Japanese patients, vasculitis generally occurs in the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and/or its branches and extends into the thoracic and abdominal aorta, subsequently forming various complicated lesions with prolonged inflammatory activity. On the other hand, in Indian patients, vasculitis generally occurs in the abdominal aorta involving renal arteries, subsequently extending into the thoracic aorta within one or two decades, simple vascular lesions being formed. Data analysis suggests that this morbid condition progresses differently in India and Japan, in spite of some common etiologic factor(s).

Synthesis and biological evaluation of 2-amino-2-deoxy- and 6-amino-6-deoxy-cyclomaltoheptaose polysulfates as synergists for angiogenesis inhibition

2-Amino-2-deoxy-cyclomaltoheptaose was prepared from beta-cyclodextrin perbenzoate [heptakis(2,3,6-tri-O-benzoyl)cyclomaltoheptaose] by a series of reactions including selective de-O-benzoylation at C-2 of one of the perbenzoylated D-glucopyranosyl moieties, oxidation to the 2-ulose derivative, oxime formation, and reduction to the 2-amino-2-deoxy-D-glucose moiety. This compound and 6-amino-6-deoxycyclomaltoheptaose accessible from beta-cyclodextrin through the known procedure were sulfated to give polysulfated aminocyclomaltoheptaose derivatives (3, 5). Employing beta-cyclodextrin polysulfate as a reference compound, the synergistic effects of 3 and 5 for cortexolone or angiogenesis inhibitory activity were examined by rabbit-corneal micropocket assay system. In contrast to the significant anti-angiogenesis activity of the beta-cyclodextrin polysulfate-cortexolone pair, neither 3 nor 5 showed any cooperative activity with cortexolone in the inhibition of basic FGF-induced angiogenesis.

Enhanced angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation by basic fibroblast growth factor in healing-impaired animals

The effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation in normal and healing-impaired animals was studied. bFGF showed a dose-dependent enhancement of granulation tissue formation in the subcutaneous implantation of a paper disk in normal rats. Application of bFGF restored the formation in healing-impaired rat models treated with steroid, chemotherapy and X-ray irradiation. The angiogenic activity of bFGF was also demonstrated in the micro-pocket assay using the cornea of rabbits. Repeated applications of bFGF accelerated closure of full-thickness excisional wounds in diabetic mice, but the high doses showed rather diminished response. In contrast histological and gross evaluation of wound tissues revealed enhanced angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation in a dose-dependent manner. The findings suggested that the topical application of excess amounts of bFGF might reduce its ability to promote wound closure because of the prolonged responses in both neovascular and granulation tissue formation.

General pharmacology of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor

General pharmacological effects of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were investigated. 1. Central nervous system: Basic FGF produced almost no effect on the general symptoms and behaviors of mice. Basic FGF did not influence the spontaneous motor activity, hexobarbital-induced anesthesia, electroshock seizure threshold, pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure in mice and normal body temperature and spinal reflex in rats up to a dose of 1 mg/kg (s.c., i.v.). As regards pain sensation, it inhibited the acetic acid-induced writhing at 1 mg/kg (s.c.). No abnormal waves were observed in spontaneous EEG of the rabbit up to 1 mg/kg (i.v.) of bFGF, but at 0.1 mg/kg it had a slight effect on the ratio of EEG levels and at 1 mg/kg induced an increase in rest period, disappearance in the period of fast wave sleep and a decrease in the period of deep sleep. 2. Somatic nervous system: Basic FGF did not influence the corneal reflex, twitch response of the skin and diaphragm-phrenic nerve preparations. 3. Autonomic nervous system and smooth muscle: Basic FGF showed little effects on the spontaneous movement of the isolated ileum, contraction induced by various agonists in isolated ileum, resting tension and noradrenaline(NA)-induced contraction of the aorta, resting tension and histamine-induced contraction of isolated trachea, spontaneous movement and 5-HT-induced contraction of isolated strips of stomach fundus, NA-induced contraction of isolated vas deferens of the rat up to the concentration of 10(-4) g/ml. Basic FGF augmented the tone of the isolated non-pregnant uterus at the concentrations of 10(-5) g/ml and above and inhibited or tended to inhibit the contractile tension of non-pregnant or pregnant uterus at 10(-4) g/ml, but it did not influence the spontaneous movement of the uterus, either the non-pregnant or pregnant, under in situ conditions even at a dose of 1 mg/kg (i.v.). Basic FGF did not influence the pupil size. 4. Respiratory and circulatory systems: Basic FGF had no effect on the isolated heart. The influence was not exerted on the heart rate for the isolated atria but slight inhibition of contractile force was observed at 10(-4) g/ml. In anesthetized dogs a decrease in blood pressure, a slight increase in heart rate and respiratory rate and a decrease in femoral blood flow were observed at 0.01 and 0.1 mg/kg (i.v.) of bFGF Similarly, a slight increase in heart rate and a slight decrease of blood pressure were observed at 1 mg/kg (s.c.) in conscious rats. 5. Digestive system: Administration of bFGF at 1 mg/kg did not result in changes in the transport capacity within the gastrointestinal tract (s.c., i.v.) and the secretion of the gastric juice (s.c.). 6. Urine output and electrolyte metabolism: Basic FGF produced a decrease in urinary Na+ excretion at 1 mg/kg (s.c.), and showed a tendency to increase in urinary volume at 0.01 and 0.1 mg/kg (i.v.). At 1 mg/kg (i.v.) urinary excretion of Na+ and Cl- was decreased significantly. It had no effect on the ability of rats to excrete PSP (phenol red) up to 1 mg/kg (s.c.). 7. Blood system: Basic FGF did not influence the coagulation time of the whole blood, prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time of rats up to 1 mg/kg (s.c., i.v.). It did not influence the aggregation of rabbit platelets induced by collagen and ADP up to 10(-4) g/ml. Basic FGF at concentration of 10(-4) g/ml exhibited no hemolytic action. 8. Local action: Plantar subcutaneous injection of bFGF at above 0.005 mg/site induced edema by itself on and after the next day, and also reinforced carrageenin-induced edema from 1 day after injection. The results show that bFGF did not produce any acute effects on the somatic nervous system, autonomic nervous system, smooth muscle and blood system. In contrast, bFGF produced slight effects on the circulatory system, central nervous system and kidney function when injected systemically. Subcutaneous administration may produce edema at the s

Effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on wound healing in healing-impaired animal models

The effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on wound healing was studied in healing-impaired animal models such as metabolic diseases (obesity and diabetes), infection, steroid treatment, malnutrition and chronic liver failure. bFGF treatment resulted in an acceleration of wound healing in an almost same dose range regardless of impairment causes or animal species used. The beneficial effects of bFGF on wound healing were suggested to be due to its potent angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation activities, leading to a rapid reepitherialization of the wound. In addition, the findings that bFGF promoted healing in infection wound and burn wound of diabetic mice, and burn wound of dietary-restricted rats indicated its ability to accelerate wound contraction, another important process of wound closure.

Acceleration of wound healing in diabetic mice by basic fibroblast growth factor

We studied the effect of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on wound healing in genetically diabetic mice. Wound closure after full-thickness excision of skin was markedly delayed in diabetic mice compared to normoglycemic mice. A single application of bFGF caused a marked acceleration of wound healing in a dose-dependent manner. There were no hypertrophic scars or unlimited granulation tissue formation in regenerated tissues treated with any doses of bFGF under histological examination. The repeated application of bFGF for 7 d showed a bell-shaped dose-response in the rate of wound closure, and the optimal dose was as small as 0.2-2 mu g per wound. Reduced angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation were observed in diabetic mice compared to normal mice, and bFGF treatment restored both responses to significant levels. The beneficial effect of bFGF on wound healing would be largely explained by enhanced angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation.