High-frequency ultrasound exposure improves depressive-like behavior in an olfactory bulbectomized rat model of depression

OBJECTIVES

According to previous studies, ultrasound exposure appears to be a noninvasive method for modulating brain activity related to cognition and consciousness; however, its effects on emotional states remain unclear. Therefore, an animal model is required in which the effects and effect mechanisms of ultrasound exposure can be investigated. Thus, we used olfactory bulbectomized rats as an animal model of depression and investigated their emotional state following ultrasound exposure.

METHODS

In male Wistar/ST olfactory bulbectomized rats, hyperemotionality was evaluated according to hyperemotionality scoring and the scores before and after 24-h ultrasound exposure were compared. Elevated plus maze (EPM) tests were also conducted after 24-h ultrasound exposure, and blood samples were collected in which plasma corticosterone concentrations were measured.

RESULTS

Following exposure to high-frequency (~50 kHz) ultrasound vocalizations (USVs) associated with the pleasant emotions of rats, the hyperemotionality scores of olfactory bulbectomized rats were significantly reduced. Additionally, the latency of the first entry into the open arm of the EPM was significantly decreased in USV-exposed olfactory bulbectomized rats, as were their plasma corticosterone levels. Furthermore, artificial ultrasound (50 kHz) at a similar frequency to that of USV also significantly decreased the hyperemotionality score of olfactory bulbectomized rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound exposure improved depressive-like behavior in olfactory bulbectomized rats and reduced their plasma corticosterone levels. Thus, we recommend the use of olfactory bulbectomized rats as an animal model for investigating the effects and effect mechanisms of ultrasound exposure.

Faecal freezing preservation period influences colonization ability for faecal microbiota transplantation

AIMS

There has been growing interest in faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as treatment. Although, frozen donor faeces preserved at -20°C has been widely used for practical advantages, freezing at -20°C can affect bacterial viability. Adequacy evaluation of fresh and frozen faeces as the transplant is necessary for the methodological improvement of FMT.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The viable bacterial compositions of faecal specimens under fresh and freezing conditions were compared by a microbiome analysis using propidium monoazide (PMA microbiome). In addition, recovery abilities from bacterial reduction by antibiotics were compared between fresh and frozen FMT using a murine model. PMA microbiome results suggested that freezing and freeze-thawing did not significantly affect in vitro faecal bacterial viability. However, the recovery effect from antimicrobial cleansing in frozen FMT was reduced in a freezing time-dependent manner, especially prominent in Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes phyla.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term freezing preservation of faeces exhibited maintenance of enteric colonization ability in frozen FMT in comparison to 1 month -20°C-preservation.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Long-term -20°C-preservation of transplanted faeces can result in instability of the clinical outcome in FMT therapy. The standardization of practical procedures of FMT therapy according to disease types is desirable.

Successful remission of ulcerative colitis flare-up during pregnancy with adsorptive granulomonocytapheresis plus tacrolimus

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is 1 of the 2 major phenotypes of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which afflicts millions of individuals throughout the world with debilitating symptoms that impair function and quality of life. Further, IBD often affects women during childbearing age. Indeed, UC activity frequently increases during pregnancy, and the medications used to induce remission may adversely affect the health of the mother and the unborn child. We report successful induction of a remission in a UC case who experienced a flare-up in the first trimester of pregnancy. Upon relapse, she was treated with steroids and adsorptive granulomonocytapheresis (GMA) with the Adacolumn plus tacrolimus. This combination therapy induced a stable remission that was maintained during her entire pregnancy. She gave birth to a healthy child at 36 weeks of pregnancy with no maternal or fetal complications. Our experience indicates that GMA, as a non-drug therapeutic intervention with a favorable safety profile, plus tacrolimus might be a relevant treatment option for patients with active IBD during pregnancy. A future study of a large cohort of pregnant patients should strengthen our findings.

Erythrina Cristagalli Lectin-reactive α-fetoprotein-E2: A Marker of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Other Malignancies

A newly isolated lectin Erythrina cristagalli (ECL) was tested for separation of human α-fetoprotein (AFP) glycoforms by affinity electrophoresis at 0.5 mg/ml and separated AFP bands were detected by antibody-affinity blotting. Three AFP bands, AFP-E1, AFP-E2 and AFP-E3 in order of increasing affinity, were obtained. Sera from control patients with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis gave a major band of AFP-E1 and a minor or trace band of AFP-E2 (3.4±2.3%), while those from patients with mostly advanced hepatocellular carcinomas had increased proportions of AFP-E2 band (16.6±10.2%). With a cutoff level of 8% (mean+2SD of AFP-E2 for controls), the sensitivity for hepatocellular carcinoma was 72% at a specificity of 100%. Gastrointestinal tumors had much higher percentages of AFP-E2 and occasionally positive AFP-E3. Most of the yolk sac tumors examined showed AFP-E3 in addition to AFP-E2, although AFP-E3 was a minor band. Thus, AFP-E2 is potentially a clinically useful marker for differentiation of increased AFP in hepatocellular carcinoma and other malignancies from that in precancerous chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.

Efficacy and Acceptability of 1 Liter of Polyethylene Glycol with Ascorbic Acid vs. 2 Liters of Polyethylene Glycol Plus Mosapride and Sennoside for Colonoscopy Preparation

BACKGROUND [color=black]Bowel preparation is an important factor for an optimal outcome of colonoscopy. Recently, polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution has been in common use for bowel cleansing for colonoscopy, but some patients are intolerant of PEG because of taste or volume. A low-volume PEG administered with ascorbic acid solution (PEG-Asc) was designed to improve tolerability, but the administration of this method is more complex than that with PEG alone. This study aimed to compare bowel cleansing efficacy, safety, and tolerability of 1 L PEG-Asc with a 2 L PEG preparation with use of sennosides and mosapride.[/color] MATERIAL AND METHODS [color=black]This was a prospective, single-center, non-inferiority trial that included 112 patients (PEG-Asc group, 68; PEG group, 44). The primary endpoint was the efficacy of colon cleansing assessed by endoscopists using a validated 4-point scale according to the Aronchick scale and was verified by a blinded investigator. Acceptability, tolerability, and adenoma detection rate (ADR) of these 2 regimens were secondary endpoints.[/color][color=black] [/color] RESULTS [color=black]We found no statistically significant differences between the groups in colon-cleansing efficacy or in the adenoma detection rate (ADR). Moreover, overall, patients significantly favored PEG-Asc over PEG, reflecting better acceptance of PEG-Asc. Additionally, more patients favored PEG-Asc over PEG for a hypothetical future colonoscopy. [/color] CONCLUSIONS [color=black]The alternate 1 L PEG-Asc regimen and standard 2 L PEG regimen were clinically equivalent with respect to cleansing efficacy, safety, and ADR, and more patients favored PEG-Asc than PEG. This alternate regimen may improve patient compliance and acceptance of surveillance colonoscopy.[/color].

Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 is associated with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma risk

AIM

Recent reports have indicated that aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10), a cancer-related oxidoreductase, was upregulated in some chronic liver diseases. However, few studies have reported AKR1B10 expression in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients. The aim of the present study was to analyze AKR1B10 expression and its relevance on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development in patients with chronic HBV infection.

METHODS

Expression of AKR1B10 in the liver of 119 chronic HBV-infected patients was assessed and quantified immunohistochemically. A multivariate Cox model was used to estimate the hazard ratios of AKR1B10 expression for HCC development. The cumulative incidences of HCC were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

Expression of AKR1B10 in the study cohort ranged from 0% to 84%. During the median follow-up time (6.2 years), 13 patients developed HCC. Multivariate analysis revealed that high AKR1B10 expression (≥15%) was an independent risk factor for HCC (hazard ratio, 10.8; 95% confidence interval, 3.0-38.6; P < 0.001). The 5-year cumulative incidences of HCC were 20.6% and 2.6% in patients with high and low AKR1B10 expression, respectively (P < 0.001). Patients with high AKR1B10 expression had significantly higher alanine aminotransferase levels during follow-up than those with low expression, even though antiviral treatment decreased HBV-DNA levels in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Chronic HBV-infected patients with high hepatic AKR1B10 expression had an increased risk of HCC development. This suggests that AKR1B10 upregulation might play a role in the early stages of HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis.

Suppression of Stress-induced nNOS Expression in the Rat Hypothalamus by Biting

Nitric oxide (•NO) modulates the activity of the endocrine system in the behavioral response to stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of restraining the body of an animal on expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, and the inhibitory effect of para-masticatory activity on restraint-induced nNOS expression. We observed an increase in nNOS mRNA expression and nNOS-positive neurons in the rat hypothalamus after 30 or 60 min of restraint. Biting on a wooden stick during bodily restraint decreased nNOS mRNA expression in the hypothalamus. In addition, the number of nNOS-positive neurons was significantly reduced in the PVN of the hypothalamus. These observations clearly suggest a possible anti-stress effect of the masticatory activity of biting, and this mechanism might be unconsciously in operation during exposure to psychological stressors.

Feasibility of 2nd generation STS retinal prosthesis in dogs

We developed a 2(nd) generation suprachoroidal transretinal stimulation (STS) system with a 49 channel electrode array and implanted in 2 dogs. One month after surgery, all electrodes were functioning and the ocular fundus was normal in both dogs. The results indicate the 2(nd) generation STS retinal prosthesis is feasible and can be considered for clinical use.

Changes in monoclonal antibody productivity of recombinant BHK cells immobilized in collagen gel particles

Animal cell perfusion high density culture is often adopted for the production of biologicals in industry. In high density culture sometimes the productivity of biologicals has been found to be enhanced. Especially in immobilized animal cell culture, significant increase in the productivity has been reported. We have found that the specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) productivity of an immobilized hybridoma cell is enhanced more than double. Several examples of enhancing productivities have been also shown by collagen immobilized cells. Immobilized cells involve some different points from non-immobilized cells in high density culture: In immobilized culture, some cells are contacted together, resulting in locally much higher cell concentration more than 10(8) cells/ml. Information originating from a cell can be easily transduced to the others in immobilized culture because the distance between cells is much nearer. Here we have performed collagen gel immobilized culture of recombinant BHK cells which produce a human IgG monoclonal antibody in a protein-free medium for more than three months. In this high density culture a stabilized monoclonal antibody production was found with around 8 times higher specific monoclonal antibody productivity compared with that in a batch serum containing culture. No higher MAb productivity was observed using a conditioned medium which was obtained from the high density culture, indicating that no components secreted from the immobilized cells work for enhancing monoclonal antibody production. The MAb productivity by the non-immobilized cells obtained by dissolving collagen using a collagenase gradually decreased and returned to the original level in the batch culture using a fresh medium. This suggests that the direct contact of the cells or a very close distance between the cells has something to do with the enhancement of the MAb productivity, and the higher productivity is kept for a while in each cell after they are drawn apart.

Colonic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma

Colonic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas are rare and a definitive treatment has not been established. Solitary or multiple, elevated or polypoid lesions are the usual appearances of MALT lymphoma in the colon and sometimes the surface may reveal abnormal vascularity. In this paper we report our experience with four cases of colonic MALT lymphoma and review the relevant literature. The first patient had a smooth elevated lesion in the rectum and histopathologic examination of the biopsy from the lesion showed centrocyte-like cells infiltrating the lamina propria. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) revealed thickening of the submucosa and muscularis propria. The patient underwent radiation therapy, and 9 months later a repeat colonoscopy showed complete resolution of the lesion. In case 2, colonoscopy showed a polyp in the cecum; the biopsy was diagnostic of MALT lymphoma. EUS detected a hypoechoic lesion confined to the mucosal layer of the colonic wall. The patient underwent endoscopic mucosal resection of the lesion and after 6 years of follow-up there was no evidence of recurrence. The third patient had a sessile elevated lesion in the sigmoid colon for which she underwent sigmoidectomy. Pathological examination of the surgical specimen was suggestive of MALT lymphoma. The last patient had a smooth elevated lesion in the rectum and magnification endoscopy showed irregular vascular pattern. The patient underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection, and biopsy examination showed the tumor to be MALT lymphoma. Although rare, awareness of MALT lymphoma of the colon is important to evaluate the patient appropriately and to plan further management.

Establishment of hybridomas producing cancer specific human antibodies from B cell line derived from PBL of a patient with adult T cell leukemia

Adult T cell leukemia (ATL) is a malignant disease characterized by tumorous proliferation of CD4(+) T cells infected with retrovirus human T cell leukemia virus Type-I (HTLV-I) and concurs with an autoimmune disease and cancer due to attenuated immune response. In this study, we established ATL patient derived B-cell line TM-1 producing cancer-specific IgM antibodies, and further characterized its antigen specificity by establishing hybridomas fused with human-mouse origin hetero-myeloma cell line RF-S1. We established three hybridoma cell lines termed 2E12, 3E9, and 3E10, which continuously secreted human IgM antibodies. Immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed tissue section using antibodies secreted from these hybridomas showed that these antibodies specifically recognized tumor sites of human colon adenocarcinomas. Antibody produced from hybridoma 3E9 bound to some of leukemic cell lines, but not to normal human PBL, which was evidenced by the flow cytometric analysis, indicating that antibody produced from 3E9 recognizes cell surface antigen specifically expressed in the leukemic cells.

Efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

AIMS

The aim of the study was to assess the short-term efficacy of intravitreal injections of bevacizumab for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

METHODS

Intravitreal bevacizumab (1 mg) was injected into 11 eyes of 11 patients with PCV in this retrospective, interventional case series. The main outcome measure was the change in the polypoidal vessels on indocyanine green angiography (IA) 3 months after injection. The foveal height determined by optical coherence tomography and the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) also were evaluated before and after treatment.

RESULTS

At baseline, subretinal fluid was observed in five eyes and a pigment epithelial detachment in eight eyes. The foveal height 1 month after injection decreased significantly (p = 0.023), but at 3 months, no significant decrease was observed, although an additional injection was administrated in five of 11 eyes. The IA at 3 months showed resolution of polyps in one eye but residual or enlarged lesions in the other ten eyes. The BCVA did not improve significantly, although the subjects had relatively good BCVA at baseline (mean 0.45).

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab may reduce the fluid from PCV but seems to be ineffective for diminishing its choroidal vascular changes.

Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab for choroidal neovascularisation associated with pathological myopia

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of an intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin(R)) for myopic choroidal neovascularisation (mCNV).

METHODS

Intravitreal bevacizumab (1 mg) was injected into eight eyes of eight patients with mCNV in this non-randomised, interventional case series. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured and the optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography findings were examined before and after treatment. The minimum follow-up time was 3 months.

RESULTS

The mean BCVA was 0.26 before treatment and 0.51 at the last visit (p = 0.009). The BCVA improved to two or more lines in six eyes (75%) and remained the same in two eyes (25%). Leakage from the mCNV on fluorescein angiography decreased in seven eyes (87.5%). The choroidal neovascularisation area on fluorescein angiography (p = 0.049) and the foveal thickness on OCT images decreased significantly (p = 0.027) after the treatment. No major complications developed.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab seems to be an effective and safe treatment for mCNV.

Effect of cardiopulmonary bypass on pulmonary clearance of adrenomedullin in humans

BACKGROUND

Adrenomedullin is a potent vasodilatory peptide and its plasma concentration increases after cardiopulmonary bypass. We analyzed the contribution of the lung to the disposition of adrenomedullin before and after cardiopulmonary bypass in humans.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass were studied. Bloods were sampled from the pulmonary artery and left atrium at the following times: prior to systemic heparinization, during pulmonary reperfusion and after cardiopulmonary bypass. Plasma concentrations of total and mature adrenomedullin were measured using an immunoradiometric assay kit specific for human adrenomedullin. Intermediate adrenomedullin was calculated as the difference between total adrenomedullin and mature adrenomedullin.

RESULTS

Before cardiopulmonary bypass, mature and intermediate adrenomedullin concentrations were reduced by the pulmonary circulation by approximately 30% and 20%, respectively. However, these effects were not observed during pulmonary reperfusion. Mature, but not intermediate, adrenomedullin was reduced after cardiopulmonary bypass. Furthermore, pulmonary clearance quantity of mature adrenomedullin was significantly enhanced after cardiopulmonary bypass.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that cardiopulmonary bypass temporally impairs the pulmonary clearance of mature and intermediate adrenomedullin, but clearance of mature, not intermediate adrenomedullin is enhanced after cardiopulmonary bypass.

Observation of two-photon above-threshold ionization of rare gases by xuv harmonic photons

We have successfully observed two-photon above-threshold ionization in rare gas atoms (Ar, Xe, and He) by the fifth harmonic (25 eV photon energy) of a KrF laser. Use of the energy-resolved photoelectron counting system together with our laser, providing strong 25 eV radiation at 40-100 Hz, enabled us to detect the very weak single-color two-photon above-threshold ionization signals. Experimental data are in good agreement with our theoretical calculations newly developed along the line of multichannel quantum defect theory.

Ophthalmic artery blood flow in patients with internal carotid artery occlusion

AIM

To evaluate the risk factors for rubeosis iridis by colour Doppler imaging (CDI) in patients with complete internal carotid artery occlusion (ICAO).

METHODS

34 eyes of 32 consecutive patients with complete ICAO were enrolled. Using CDI, blood flow direction (forward, reverse, undetectable) in the ophthalmic artery (OA), central retinal artery (CRA), and short posterior ciliary artery (SPCA) were determined. Arterial mean blood velocity (Vmean) and resistive index (RI) were calculated and correlations between the rubeosis iridis incidence and CDI parameters analysed.

RESULTS

The eyes were classified into four types according to blood flow direction: forward flow in OA, CRA, and SPCA (type 1; n = 11); reverse OA and forward CRA and SPCA flow (type 2a; n = 12); reverse OA and undetectable CRA and SPCA flow (type 2b; n = 8); undetectable flow in all three arteries (type 3; n = 3). Rubeosis iridis was seen only in type 2b and 3 eyes. Type 2b showed significantly (p<0.01) higher Vmean and lower RI values in the OA, indicating more rapid reverse flow than in type 2a eyes. Although in type 1 and 2a eyes OA flow was in opposite directions, they manifested no rubeosis iridis and no difference in the Vmean and RI values of the CRA and SPCA.

CONCLUSIONS

The classification of eyes from patients with ICAO into four types by CDI may facilitate the identification of the eyes at high risk for rubeosis iridis. Markedly diminished flow in both the CRA and SPCA may result in rubeosis iridis, regardless of OA flow direction.

Successful vitrification of pronuclear-stage rabbit zygotes by minimum volume cooling procedure

Rabbit zygotes at the pronuclear-stage were cryopreserved by vitrification using a gel-loading tip (GL-tip), Cryoloop or Cryotop. In GL-tip and Cryoloop methods, zygotes were first exposed to 10% ethylene glycol (EG)+10% DMSO in TCM199+20% fetal bovine serum (FBS) for 2 min, and then equilibrated for 30 s in a vitrification solution composed of 20% EG+20% DMSO+0.6 M sucrose in TCM199+20% FBS. In Cryotop method, zygotes were first exposed to 7.5% EG+7.5% DMSO+20% FBS in TCM199 for 3 min, and then equilibrated for 1 min in a vitrification solution composed of 15% EG+15% DMSO+0.5 M sucrose+20% FBS in TCM199. In vitro culture of vitrified-warmed zygotes using GL-tip and Cryoloop resulted in low cleavage rates (2 and 5%, respectively) and no development into blastocysts. In contrast, zygotes vitrified-warmed using Cryotop exhibited higher proportions of cleavage (58%) and development into blastocysts (24%). When compacted morulae or early blastocysts were vitrified by these three procedures, 80-93% of them exhibited blastocoele expansion or zona hatching during the subsequent 48 h of culture. Use of Cryotop instead of GL-tip or Cryoloop for zygote vitrification, without changing conditions of solutions and periods for exposure, equilibration and post-warm dilution, resulted in cleavage and blastocyst development rates of 88 and 45%, respectively. A longer exposure time (10 min) of zygotes to 7.5% EG+7.5% DMSO+20% FBS in TCM199 resulted in higher proportions of zygotes cleaving (94%) and developing into blastocysts (51%) after Cryotop vitrification. Proportions of post-warm zygotes (10-min exposure group) and fresh control zygotes developing into newborn offspring were 36 and 53%, respectively. Pronuclear-stage rabbit zygotes were successfully cryopreserved by vitrification using the Cryotop method.

Vitreous hemorrhage from a ciliary granuloma associated with Wegener granulomatosis

PURPOSE

To report a case of vitreous hemorrhage from ciliary granuloma in Wegener granulomatosis.

METHODS

Interventional case report. An 18-year-old woman with Wegener granulomatosis and episcleral granuloma in her LE had ultrasound biomicroscopy findings of a mass in the pars plana of the ciliary body in the meridian corresponding to the episcleral granuloma.

RESULTS

The patient underwent vitrectomy in the LE for subsequent vitreous hemorrhage. Intraoperatively, the mass was diagnosed as a ciliary granuloma at the pars plana. Dense blood clotting around the ciliary granuloma and subretinal exudation at the ora serrata were observed, with no other changes causative for the vitreous hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

We report a case of vitreous hemorrhage associated with a ciliary granuloma that was revealed by ultrasound biomicroscopy. Careful observation is necessary in eyes with persistent inflammation in Wegener granulomatosis.

Macular translocation with chorioscleral outfolding: an experimental study

PURPOSE

Macular translocation by chorioscleral infolding has been proposed as a surgical intervention for exudative age-related macular degeneration, but the surgery is unpredictable and can be associated with severe complications. We tested a new surgical technique, macular translocation with chorioscleral outfolding secured by neurosurgical clips.

METHODS

This was a prospective interventional study in two parts; the first in human cadaver eyes and the second in pigs. Chorioscleral infolding was performed on six human donor eyes, and chorioscleral outfolding was performed on an additional six. The inner surface of the eye wall was measured, and then the fold was unfolded and the distance was measured again. In the second half of the study, macular translocation surgery was performed on 33 pig eyes with one of three sclera shortening methods: 1) a circumferential chorioscleral infolding using 5-0 nylon sutures, 2) a circumferential chorioscleral outfolding using scleral clips, or 3) a radial chorioscleral outfolding using scleral clips. Foveal translocation was measured.

RESULTS

The inner wall of the human cadaver eye was shortened in the chorioscleral infolding group by a mean of 1.6 mm, and in the chorioscleral outfolding group by 3.0 mm. In the pig eyes, the fovea was translocated a mean 2377 microm by circumferential suturing, 2582 microm by circumferential clipping, and 3386 microm by radial clipping. Irregular deformation of the globe was more apparent in the circumferential suture group. Undesirable retinal folds often formed after circumferential infolding but not after radial clipping.

CONCLUSION

Radial chorioscleral outfolding with clips is more predictable and effective than infolding. It produces more translocation and prevents folds across the fovea, one of the most undesirable complications in macular translocation surgery.

Cerebral vasoreactivity and internal carotid artery flow help to identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion after carotid endarterectomy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hyperperfusion syndrome is a rare but potentially devastating complication after carotid endarterectomy (CEA). The aim of this study was to investigate whether preoperative measurement of cerebral vasoreactivity (CVR) and intraoperative measurement of internal carotid artery (ICA) flow could identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion after CEA.

METHODS

For 26 patients with unilateral ICA stenosis >/=70%, cerebral blood flow (CBF) and CVR were investigated before and 1 month after CEA, with resting and acetazolamide-challenge single-photon emission CT. CBF on the first postoperative day was also measured. ICA flow was measured before and after reconstruction by electromagnetic flowmeter during surgery.

RESULTS

Ipsilateral CBF on the first postoperative day significantly increased relatively (56.6+/-53.2%) as well as absolutely (37.9+/-8.8 to 57.7+/-18.0 mL/100 g per minute) in the reduced CVR group (CVR <12%) but not in the normal CVR group (CVR >/=12%) (10.3+/-15.5% and 40.6+/-7.9 to 43.9+/-5.7 mL/100 g per minute, respectively). One month later, this difference almost disappeared. Two patients showed ipsilateral CBF increase of >/=100%. A significant association of intracerebral steal with hyperperfusion (CBF increase >/=100%) on the first postoperative day was also observed. ICA flow increase after reconstruction significantly correlated with CBF increase on the first postoperative day in the reduced CVR group but not in the normal CVR group. The threshold of ICA flow increase for hyperperfusion was estimated to be 330 mL/min in the reduced CVR group.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-photon emission CT with acetazolamide challenge and ICA flow measurement during surgery could identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion after CEA, in whom careful monitoring and control of blood pressure should be initiated even intraoperatively.

[Three cases of multiseptate gallbladder]

Multiseptate gallbladder is an extremely rare congenital anomaly. We report three cases of this clinical entity. The third patient, a 70-year-old male who was asymptomatic with this condition, also had a gallbladder carcinoma. The three surgically removed gallbladders had multiple thin septa with a honeycomb appearance. Histologically, the septa contained a muscular layer that was continuous with the gallbladder wall. Furthermore, in the third patient, mucinous cystadenoma with focal carcinomatous change in the epithelium was observed. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a multiseptate gallbladder with carcinoma.

Effect of Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution on the retinal pigment epithelium and retina in rabbits

PURPOSE

To determine whether intravitreal irrigation with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus (Alcon Laboratory, Fort Worth, Texas) solution alters the adhesiveness between the retinal pigment epithelium and the retina of rabbits.

METHODS

Thirty-four eyes of 34 Dutch pigmented rabbits underwent lensectomy and vitrectomy. Subsequently, the vitreous cavity of 24 eyes was irrigated with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution for 10 or 20 minutes. The other 10 eyes were irrigated with BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes as controls. To determine the adhesiveness between the retinal pigment epithelium and retina, a retinal detachment was produced in 12 of the 34 eyes. The apical surface of the retinal pigment epithelium and the photoreceptor outer segments were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Retinal physiology was assessed by electroretinography and retinal morphology by light microscopy.

RESULTS

After retinal detachment was produced, the number of cone sheaths on the apical surface of the retinal pigment epithelium after irrigation with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes (33 +/- 15, mean +/- SD) was significantly less than the number of cone sheaths on the apical surface of the retinal pigment epithelium of eyes after irrigation with BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes (120 +/- 50) or the number of cone sheaths on the apical surface of the retinal pigment epithelium of eyes after 10 minutes of irrigation with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution (115 +/- 49; P =.02). The b-wave amplitudes in the eyes irrigated with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes were depressed compared with the b-waves in eyes irrigated with BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes on the first postoperative day (P =.03). After the third postoperative day, there was no significant difference in the b-waves (P >.06). Light microscopy demonstrated no morphologic abnormalities after the use of both solutions.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal irrigation with Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution for 20 minutes altered the adhesion between the retinal pigment epithelium microvilli and retinal outer segments and made the creation of retinal detachment less traumatic. These results suggest that Ca(2+)-free and Mg(2+)-free BSS Plus solution may be of clinical value for the creation of an intentional retinal detachment for foveal translocation surgery.

Indocyanine green facilitates removal of epiretinal and internal limiting membranes in myopic eyes with retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To describe the use of intravitreal indocyanine green as an aid to identifying epiretinal membranes and internal-limiting membranes during surgery for a retinal detachment resulting from a macular hole.

METHODS

A 62-year-old man who had a retinal detachment resulting from a macular hole underwent vitrectomy. During the surgery, intravitreal indocyanine green was injected intravitreally.

RESULTS

The internal-limiting membrane was stained green, but the epiretinal membrane was unstained. Because the epiretinal membrane and internal-limiting membrane were clearly identified, they could be completely removed. The clinical observations of the epiretinal membrane and internal-limiting membrane excised were confirmed by electron microscopy. Successful reattachment was obtained without damage to the retina.

CONCLUSION

Removal of epiretinal membrane and internal-limiting membrane can be facilitated by using intravitreal indocyanine green during vitrectomy. We recommend further studies to confirm the benefit of this technique.

Investigation of patients' demand for community pharmacies: relationship between pharmacy services and patient satisfaction

We performed an investigation on the patients' demand for community pharmacy based on the analysis of questionnaire responses on community pharmacy services from the patients at 32 pharmacies in Tokyo and Osaka. In the previous study, we developed seven evaluation indices for pharmacy services, and showed that the functions most sought by patients in the "ideal pharmacies" were "Attitude of pharmacy/pharmacist", "Convenient hours" and "Information management". The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between these pharmacy functions and patient satisfaction by analyzing responses from the same questionnaire survey. Overall satisfaction score with the "pharmacy used today" was employed as the dependent variable, while the six factors derived from the 26-item evaluation scale in the questionnaire by factor analysis were used as the independent variables. As a result of analysis, it was found that four variables had a significant positive correlation with patient satisfaction, one had a significant inverse correlation, and one showed no significant correlation (p < 0.05). These results suggest that: attitude of the pharmacists such as general attitude and specialized activities of pharmacy/pharmacist such as providing information and explanations, and convenience of hours are not only judged to be important by patients, but also influence their satisfaction; comfortable facilities and availability of OTC drugs, while rated relatively low by patients in terms of importance, do influence their satisfaction; and convenience of location does not influence patient satisfaction. It was also indicated that insufficient inventories of prescribed medications have an impact upon patient satisfaction. This investigation offers evidence to provide patient-based pharmacy services.

Visual function after foveal translocation with 360-degree retinotomy and simultaneous torsional muscle surgery in patients with myopic neovascular maculopathy

PURPOSE

To assess functional and anatomical outcomes after foveal translocation with 360-degree retinotomy and simultaneous torsional muscle surgery in patients with myopic neovascular maculopathy.

METHODS

Foveal translocation with 360-degree retinotomy was performed in 11 eyes of 11 patients with myopic neovascular maculopathy. Ten eyes had simultaneous torsional muscle surgery with recession of the superior oblique muscle and tucking of the inferior oblique muscle. Silicone oil removal with or without intraocular lens implantation was performed 2 to 8 weeks after the primary procedure. Visual acuity, binocular function, and degree of cyclotorsion were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. Angles of retinal and globe rotation, distance of foveal shift, and surgical complications were also investigated.

RESULTS

With a mean postoperative follow-up of 6.2 months (range, 3 to 13 months), vision improved (greater than 0.2 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution [logMAR] units) in eight eyes, was unchanged in two eyes, and worsened (greater than 0.2 logMAR units) in 1 eye. Seven of 11 eyes (64%) had a final visual acuity of 20/50 or better. Five patients developed or maintained binocular fusion, four patients continued to have suppression, and two patients developed diplopia that was managed by spectacles with Fresnel prisms. Subjective cyclotorsion was less than 8 degrees in 10 eyes. Mean retinal and globe rotations were 23.4 degrees and 19.8 degrees, respectively. Average size of the choroidal neovascular membrane was 0.8 disk diameter, whereas the average distance of foveal shift was 1.5 disk diameter. After the primary procedure, three eyes developed retinal detachment, one eye macular hole, and one eye proliferative vitreoretinopathy. These complications were successfully managed by additional surgery.

CONCLUSION

Foveal translocation with 360-degree retinotomy is effective in restoring vision in some patients with myopic neovascular maculopathy. Although the development of torsional diplopia is generally obviated by simultaneous extraocular muscle surgery, a relatively high incidence of surgical complications should be taken into account with this procedure.

Inhibition of experimental choroidal neovascularization by overexpression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 in retinal pigment epithelium cells

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of introducing exogenous tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene into the rat retinal pigment epithelium using hemagglutinating virus of Japan liposomes and to assess the effect of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 overexpression in retinal pigment epithelium cells on the formation of experimental choroidal neovascularization.

METHODS

Hemagglutinating virus of Japan liposomes containing hemagglutin epitope-tagged tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene were injected into the subretinal space in rat eyes. Localization of oligonucleotides was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. Exogenous tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 mRNA expression was assessed by reverse transcribed polymerase chain reaction. Exogenous tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 protein expression was visualized by immunostaining with monoclonal antibody 12CA5 against the hemagglutin epitope. Three days after transfection of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene into retinal pigment epithelium cells, intense laser photocoagulation was performed and the incidence of choroidal neovascularization was assessed by fluorescein fundus angiography.

RESULTS

Exogenous tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 mRNA expression in the choroid and retina was detected on day 3. The efficiency of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene transfection into retinal pigment epithelium cells was greatest on day 7 and decreased gradually thereafter. The incidence of choroidal neovascularization in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene-transfected eyes was markedly decreased compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene can be transferred into rat retinal pigment epithelium using the hemagglutinating virus of Japan-liposome method and that tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 gene overexpression can inhibit development of experimental choroidal neovascularization. This method may represent a future treatment modality for human macular degeneration associated with choroidal neovascularization.

Comparative analysis of pharmacy services based on newly developed evaluation index

This study was conducted to evaluate pharmacy services to patients or customers with prescriptions issued by large hospitals. The primary purpose of this study is to assess patients' perceptions and expectations of pharmacy services with a view to standardizing community pharmacies for better health care. Two groups of patients or pharmacy patrons were evaluated, i.e. those who utilized pharmacies adjacent to the hospitals (Group A) and those who utilized other community pharmacies (Group B). The survey consisted of 26 evaluation functions ranging from location to services. Based on these functions, patients were requested to use a scale of 1 to 5 to rate the pharmacy they are currently using ("Pharmacy Used Today") and their perception of an "Ideal Pharmacy". These evaluation functions were analyzed and classified into seven dimensions which formed the evaluation index used in this study. These are: (1) availability of over-the-counter drugs, (2) availability of special services such as delivery of medicines, acceptance of fax order, etc., (3) facilities, (4) convenient location, (5) attitude of pharmacy/pharmacist, (6) information management, and (7) convenient hours. In comparing the results of the study, it was revealed that both groups of patients/pharmacy patrons have common expectations or perceptions as to what is an "Ideal Pharmacy". The results also revealed that of the seven dimensions mentioned above, the three most important to patients/patrons are: attitude of pharmacy/pharmacist, convenient hours, and information management. In rating the "Pharmacy Used Today", Group A patrons gave lower ratings than Group B patrons in all dimensions except facilities. The variance between the "Pharmacy Used Today" and the "Ideal Pharmacy" is greater in Group A than in Group B. The results of this investigation indicate that the Group B patients/patrons have received greater amount of benefits of the "Bungyo" than Group A ones, although the fact is that most outpatients use pharmacies located adjacent to hospitals in order to obtain their medications.

Effects of alpha adrenoreceptor antagonists, prazosin and. yohimbine, on intrathecal lidocaine-induced antinociception in mice

BACKGROUND

The precise mechanisms involved in the spinal analgesic effect of lidocaine are not yet clear. We previously found that lidocaine releases noradrenaline, a modulator of nociception, in rat spinal cord. Here, we attempted to clarify whether or not the noradrenaline release contributes to spinal analgesia by lidocaine.

METHODS

The effects of intrathecal injections of the alpha adrenoreceptor antagonists, prazosin (0.01-0.3 nmol) and yohimbine (0.1-3 nmol), on intrathecal 2% lidocaine were assessed using the tail-flick (TF) test in mice.

RESULTS

Lidocaine significantly increased the TF latency for 15 min. Prazosin (0.03, 0.1 or 0.3 nmol) and yohimbine (0.3, 1.0 or 3.0 nmol) significantly reduced the lidocaine-induced increase of the TF latency 10 min after injection, although both drugs showed a ceiling effect.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that stimulation of the noradrenergic systems plays an important role in spinal analgesia by lidocaine.

Human and mouse homologues of the Drosophila melanogaster tweety (tty) gene: a novel gene family encoding predicted transmembrane proteins

We have cloned cDNA for TTYH1, a human homologue of the Drosophila melanogaster tweety (tty) gene. The 450-residue predicted protein shows 27% amino acid sequence identity (51% similarity) to the Drosophila protein, which contains an additional C-terminal repetitive region. A second Drosophila homologue exhibits 42% identity (65% similarity) to the tty protein. Mouse (Ttyh1), macaque, and Caenorhabditis elegans homologues were also identified, and the complete coding sequence for the mouse gene was determined. The mouse protein is 91% identical to the human protein. Hydrophobicity analysis of the tty-related proteins indicates that they represent a new family of membrane proteins with five potential membrane-spanning regions. The yeast FTR1 and FTH1 iron transporter proteins and the mammalian neurotensin receptors 1 and 2 have a similar hydrophobicity profile, although there is no detectable sequence homology to the tty-related proteins. This suggests that the tweety-related proteins could be involved in transport of iron or other divalent cations or alternatively that they may be membrane-bound receptors. TTYH1 was mapped to chromosome 19q13.4 by FISH and by radiation hybrid mapping using the Stanford G3 panel.

Endothelial factors involved in the bradykinin-induced relaxation of the guinea-pig aorta

Endothelial factors involved in the bradykinin (BK)-induced relaxation of the guinea-pig aorta were investigated using isolated aortic rings. In intact aortic rings, higher concentrations of BK (> or = 10(-7) M) produced contraction, possibly as a direct action on smooth muscle. This BK-induced contraction was enhanced either by Nw-nitro-L-arginine (NOLA), an inhibitor of the production of nitric oxide or by indomethacin (IND), an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase, but not by carbenoxolone (CX), a known inhibitor of gap junctions. In aortic rings contracted with noradrenaline, BK elicited a relaxation with two components; an initial fast relaxation followed by a gradually diminishing slow relaxation, both in an endothelium-dependent manner. The BK-induced relaxation was inhibited in a drug specific manner by either NOLA, IND or CX. NOLA either abolished the fast relaxation, or sometimes converted it into a contractile response. IND reduced the amplitude and duration of the relaxation, by inhibiting the fast relaxation and abolishing the following slow relaxation. CX reduced both components of the relaxation. In the presence of both NOLA and CX, the BK-induced relaxation was converted to a contractile response followed by an IND-sensitive slow relaxation. In the presence of NOLA and IND together, BK stimulation caused a contraction with no following relaxation. These results indicate that in aortic rings of the guinea-pig, BK stimulates endothelial cells to release nitric oxide and prostanoids that produce the fast and slow components of the relaxation respectively. The effects of CX suggest that the contribution of EDHF to the BK-induced relaxation is weak.

[Intraoperative management of heart transplantation in Japan--report of two cases]

We experienced intraoperative anesthetic management of two cases of heart transplantation in Japan. Both patients were in the end stage of cardiac failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy. One patient had had implantation of left ventricular assist system, and another patient had had implantation of automated cardioveter defibrillator. Transesophageal echocardiography was useful for the monitoring of cardiac function during the operation. Anti-arrythmic therapy including heart pacing and protection of right heart failure are important for the circulatory management of heart transplantation. The anesthesiologist is needed not only for the management of respiration and circulation but also for the prevention of infection and control of the time schedule.

Tissue plasminogen activator in the treatment of vitreoretinal diseases

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a thrombolytic agent that activates plasminogen into plasmin almost exclusively in the presence of fibrin. Intraocular injection of tPA has been proposed for the treatment of vitreoretinal diseases, such as vitreous hemorrhage, postvitrectomy fibrin formation, submacular hemorrhage, retinal vascular occlusive disorders, suprachoroidal hemorrhage and endophthalmitis. Currently, intraocular tPA is only used in the treatment of postvitrectomy fibrin formation and submacular hemorrhage. For other indications, tPA has not been shown to be safe or effective. This article reviews the use of tPA in the treatment of vitreoretinal disorders.

Solh, the mouse homologue of the Drosophila melanogaster small optic lobes gene: organization, chromosomal mapping, and localization of gene product to the olfactory bulb

The Drosophila melanogaster small optic lobes gene (sol) is required for normal development of the neuropiles of the medulla and lobula complexes of the adult optic lobes. The predicted protein products of sol and its human homologue SOLH contain zinc-finger-like repeats, a calpain-like protease domain, and a C-terminal domain of unknown function. Long-distance PCR was used to amplify genomic DNA for Solh, the mouse homologue of sol, following the identification of mouse Solh expressed sequence tags. The nucleotide sequence of the Solh coding region (6.0 kb) was determined. The predicted Solh protein of 1095 amino acid residues shows 89% identity (93% similarity) to the human homologue. Solh was localized by in situ hybridization to band A3.3 on mouse Chromosome 17, in a region of maintained homology with human 16p13.3. Antipeptide antibodies were prepared and verified by demonstration of specific reactivity with recombinant human SOLH protein prepared by in vitro transcription/translation and expression in insect cells using the baculovirus system. The antibodies were used to show that the Solh protein localizes to the olfactory bulb in mouse and rat brain, suggesting that it could have an analogous role in development of sensory system neurons in Drosophila and in mammals.

A study of the ability of tissue plasminogen activator to diffuse into the subretinal space after intravitreal injection in rabbits

PURPOSE

Intravitreal injections of tissue plasminogen activator have been used to lyse fibrin from blood in the subretinal space, despite the lack of proof that tissue plasminogen activator can diffuse across the retina. We tested whether tissue plasminogen activator injected into the vitreous could penetrate the neural retina and enter the subretinal space.

METHODS

We injected a mixture of 50 microg of tissue plasminogen activator (70 kD) labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate and rhodamine B isothiocyanate-labeled dextran, which has a lower molecular weight (20 kD), into the midvitreous cavity of one eye in each of 18 rabbits. The eyes were enucleated after 3, 6, and 24 hours, and cryosections were examined with epifluorescent microscopy to determine the distribution of the labeled molecules. We also evaluated tissue plasminogen activator pharmacokinetics in one eye each of 18 rabbits in which a subretinal clot was induced by injecting autologous blood (50 microL) into the subretinal space through the sclera. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled tissue plasminogen activator was injected into the vitreous 2 days after induction of the subretinal clot.

RESULTS

Fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled tissue plasminogen activator was present at the vitreal surface of the retina in a linear array in all 36 eyes studied, whereas the rhodamine B isothiocyanate-labeled dextran had diffused throughout the neural retina in the same sections. No fluorescein isothiocyanate signal was observed in the neural retina or in the subretinal clot. Vitreous hemorrhage caused by retinal perforation was observed in all eyes with intraretinal hemorrhage in which fluorescein isothiocyanate fluorescence was seen in the neural retina and inside the clot.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator did not diffuse through the intact neural retina to reach a subretinal clot. This study demonstrates no scientific rationale for the intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator treatment of submacular hemorrhage without vitreous hemorrhage presumably caused by an overlying retinal break.

[Effectiveness of noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation for patients with chronic stable hypercapnic respiratory failure]

The effectiveness of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) was evaluated in 20 patients with chronic stable hypercapnic respiratory failure. Patients were assigned to receive domiciliary long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT group, n = 11) or LTOT plus NPPV (NPPV group, n = 9). The primary endpoints were the health-related quality of life (HRQL), as assessed by the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (SF 36) questionnaire, and the activities and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL and IADL), as assessed by the Groningen Activity Restriction Scale (GARS). Secondary endpoints were mortality, the number of acute exacerbation episodes that required endotracheal intubation, and the length of hospital stay. Significant improvement was observed in the SF 36 physical functioning subscale (30.6 +/- 19.9 to 41.1 +/- 21.6, p = 0.02) and GARS score (36.1 +/- 9.0 to 32.3 +/- 8.5, p = 0.02) of the NPPV group. One patient in the NPPV group and 7 patients in the LTOT group underwent endotracheal intubation (relative risk = 0.18, p = 0.03). Differences in length of hospital stay (8.2 +/- 4.1 days vs. 31.6 +/- 35.8 days, p = 0.07) and mortality rate (1/9 vs. 3/11, p = 0.59) for the NPPV and LTOT groups were not statistically significant. We conclude that the utilization of NPPV for patients with chronic respiratory failure is effective in preventing the deterioration of underlying disease and in improving the quality of life.

TIMP-3 in Bruch's membrane: changes during aging and in age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To assess the distribution, content, and function of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-3 during aging in normal eyes for comparison with the levels observed in eyes with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

METHODS

Donor tissues analyzed included 36 normal eyes (14-96 years old) and 15 AMD eyes (74 -98 years old). A tissue strip including the fovea was used for immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis was performed on extracts of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)- choroid complex from the posterior part of each eye. Immunoreactivity of TIMP-3 bands in each western blot was densitometrically quantitated. The inhibitory function of TIMP-3 was evaluated with reverse zymography.

RESULTS

TIMP-3 was present uniformly across Bruch's membrane in the normal samples. In samples from donors more than 50 years of age, immunostaining was intense. TIMP-3 content ranged from 92 to 1061 ng/cm2 and increased with age (r = 0.66). In AMD eyes, TIMP-3 distribution in Bruch's membrane was abundant in areas of continuous soft drusen but absent in areas below RPE atrophy. TIMP-3 levels in AMD eyes were significantly higher than in age-matched normal eyes (577 versus 877 ng/cm2; P = 0.009). Inhibitory activity correlated well with TIMP-3 content (r = 0.82) and was also significantly higher in AMD eyes than in age-matched normal eyes (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

During normal aging, TIMP-3 content in Bruch's membrane of the macula shows a significant increase. TIMP-3 content in AMD eyes was elevated relative to that of age-matched normal eyes. Higher levels of TIMP-3 may contribute to the thickening of Bruch's membrane observed in AMD.

New method for determining the sugar composition of glycoproteins, glycolipids, and oligosaccharides by high-performance liquid chromatography

A new method is reported that can be performed within a single vessel to analyze the composition of aldose, hexosamine, and sialic acid residues of glycoproteins, glycolipids, and oligosaccharides. Glycoconjugates are treated with sialidase or subjected to mild acid hydrolysis, before being treated with N-acetylneuraminic acid aldolase to convert the free sialic acid residues to their corresponding N-acylmannosamines. The reaction mixture is then successively subjected to acid hydrolysis (in order to produce monosaccharides), N-acetylation, and conversion with p-aminobenzoic acid ethyl ester (ABEE). The ABEE-converted monosaccharides are simultaneously determined by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Determination of the sugar compositions of bovine fetuin, II3NeuGc alpha-LacCer, and 3'-sialyllactose with this method was found to be highly accurate. Linearity of the peak area vs. the amount of bovine fetuin ranged from 1 to 50 micrograms in all ABEE-converted monosaccharides. With a slight modification to this method, sialic acid residues can be separately determined as NeuAc and NeuGc. This novel method and its modified version are used to demonstrate the sugar compositions of alpha 1-acid glycoproteins from several sources.

[Antibacterial effects of cacao mass on enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7]

The antimicrobial activities of aqueous cacao mass extract against enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 006 strain were studied. Hot water extract of cacao mass (cocoa extract) was shown to inhibit the growth of EHEC O157:H7 006 strain in PBS or CAYE medium. In addition, the production of verotoxins (types 1 and 2) of EHEC O157:H7 006 strain was significantly inhibited by 8.0% cocoa extract. The cocoa extract did not neutralize the cytotoxity of verotoxins, but had inhibitory effect on adhesion of verotoxins to the target Vero cells. These results demonstrate that cacao mass has antimicrobial effects on EHEC O157:H7.

[A case of emergency caesarean section as a result of anaphylaxis to latex]

A 32-year-old woman was admitted with a diagnosis of impending premature delivery. In the 37th week of pregnancy, vaginal examination was performed. After ten minutes, vomiting, whole body flushing, and cold sweat appeared suddenly. Because fetal heart rate became 60-70 beats.min-1, emergency caesarean section was scheduled. When she arrived at the operating room, blood pressure was 75/45 and heart rate was 122 beats.min-1. Five minutes later, anesthesia was induced with thiopental and vecuronium, and operation was instituted concomitantly. After the delivery, pentazocine and midazolam were administered. During the operation, premature separation of normally implanted placenta or pressed cord was not observed. Hydrocortisone was administered for circulatory collapse. Gabexate mesilate was administered for the prevention of DIC. The scratch test, performed ten days later, revealed that latex was positive but lidocaine was negative. Therefore, it was concluded that anaphylaxis induced by latex gloves caused shock after internal examination.

Analysis of extracellular matrix synthesis during wound healing of retinal pigment epithelial cells

To investigate changes in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells during wound healing, we evaluated the deposition of newly synthesized extracellular matrix (ECM) over time during wound healing in rat RPE cultures. We also estimated the effect of growth factors on the healing rate and ECM synthesis. After preparing rat RPE cell sheet cultures, we made round 1-mm defects in the cultures. Fibronectin, laminin, and collagen IV synthesis were evaluated with immunocytochemistry every 12 hours after wounding. S-phase cell distribution was analyzed every 12 hours by 5-bromodeoxyuridine uptake. We added either platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), or transforming growth factor- beta2 (TGF-beta2) to cultures at concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 ng/mL and immunocytochemically analyzed the effects on ECM and estimated the rate of wound closure. Although approximately 50% closure was achieved 24 hours after wounding, fibronectin deposits first appeared at that time. Laminin and collagen IV were first detected at 36 hours and fibronectin staining had extended toward the wound center. S-phase cells were distributed in concentric rings that moved centripetally over time and corresponded to the leading edge of the area stained with anti-ECM antibodies. TGF-beta2 enhanced ECM deposition, but EGF and PDGF did not. TGF-beta2 decreased the healing rate in a dose-dependent manner, whereas PDGF promoted wound closure. EGF enhanced closure at the highest concentration only. In summary, wound healing in RPE may be initiated when cells at the wound edge slide or migrate toward the wound center, which is followed by cell proliferation and then ECM synthesis. ECM components may be produced in a specific sequence during healing. TGF-beta2 may promote RPE cell differentiation, and PDGF may enhance proliferation during wound healing of the RPE.

Photocoagulation and fluid-gas exchange to treat persistent macular holes after prior vitrectomy. A pilot study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of photocoagulation to the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and fluid-gas exchange (FGX) in the treatment of persistent macular holes.

DESIGN

A clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirteen eyes of 12 patients who had undergone photocoagulation to the RPE and FGX for persistent macular holes after initial vitrectomy and gas tamponade were examined. All eyes had persistent full-thickness macular holes (diameter range, 290-820 microns; 610 +/- 190, mean +/- standard deviation) and no vitreous cortex around the holes on biomicroscopic examination.

INTERVENTION

Argon laser photocoagulation was applied to the RPE in the hole bed, and FGX with 20% sulfur hexafluoride was then performed, followed by 2 weeks with the patient in a prone position. The follow-up period of the patients ranged from 3 to 18 months (10.2 +/- 4.2; mean +/- standard deviation).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Anatomic success and final visual outcome were measured.

RESULTS

Macular holes were closed successfully after treatment in 12 (92%) of 13 eyes, and visual acuity improved 2 or more lines in 6 eyes (46%). Two eyes (15%) attained visual acuities of 20/40 or better, and seven eyes (54%) attained 20/67 or better visual acuity. There were no intraoperative complications. Cataract formation or progression was recognized during follow-up in five (83%) of six phakic eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Although this study includes only a small number of patients, it suggests that photocoagulation and FGX can be effective in the treatment of persistent macular holes.

SOLH, a human homologue of the Drosophila melanogaster small optic lobes gene is a member of the calpain and zinc-finger gene families and maps to human chromosome 16p13.3 near CATM (cataract with microphthalmia)

Mutations in the Drosophila melanogaster small optic lobes (sol) gene cause a sever reduction in the neuropiles of the medulla and lobula complexes of the adult optic lobes. The predicted protein product of sol contains zinc-finger-like repeats, a calpain-like protease domain, and a C-terminal region of unknown function. We have isolated human brain cDNA for SOLH, a human homologue of sol. The human SOLH gene consists of 14 exons distributed over more than 45 kb of genomic DNA. The encoded SOLH protein of 1086 amino acids has strong similarity to the D. melanogaster protein. The calpain-like domain and C-terminal region are highly conserved (58% identity), and similar Cys2-Cys2 zinc fingers are present in the N-terminal region. A reported Caenorhabditis elegans homologue contains the calpain domain and C-terminal region, but appears to lack the zinc finger region. A single copy of the zinc finger sequence is present in adjacent C. elegans genomic cosmid DNA sequence, and we show that it is part of the C. elegans sol-like transcript. Northern analysis of human tissues revealed a SOLH transcript of approximately 5 kb that was strongest in human brain. We have mapped the SOLH gene to chromosome 16p13.3 by in situ hybridization. SOLH is a candidate gene for CATM (hereditary cataracts with microphthalmia), which maps in this region.

Ascorbate peroxidase and catalase cooperate for protection against hydrogen peroxide generated in potato tubers during low-temperature storage

We investigated the behavior of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APx), in potato tubers during storage at low temperature. SOD activity increased temporarily within 3 weeks and was higher at 1 degree C than at 20 degrees C. APx activity also increased more at low (1 degree C) than at higher temperatures (5 and 20 degrees C). The contents of ascorbic acid (AsA), which is the substrate of APx, decreased immediately within 3 weeks and then gradually decreased until 15 weeks. The activity of CAT, the other enzyme which can scavenge hydrogen peroxide, decreased once in the first six weeks and thereafter increased to 15 weeks. Thus, the enhancement of the active oxygen-scavenging system that was induced by low temperature in potato tubers could result not only in a decrease of AsA but also in combined increases in APx and CAT activity whose manners were different.